Natural Awakenings SELA DEC 2011 by NALAMAG

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Special Edition

UPLIFTING HUMANITY Simple Ways to Give and Do Good

NEW YEARâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MEANINGFUL INTENTIONS GIVING Wayne Dyer Shares Five Favorites

Tips to Simplify the Season

HOLIDAY TREATS Sustainably Festive Party Foods

December 2011 | S.E. Louisiana Edition | NOLANaturalAwakeningsMag.com natural awakenings

December 2011

letterfrompublisher

f we’ve heard it once, we’ve heard it a thousand times: “It’s better to give than to receive.” As a child we may be skeptical of the truth of it, but as an adult we have learned through experience how good it feels to selflessly serve others, simply out of the goodness of our heart. Now it turns out that giving is a healthy move for everyone. In this month’s feature article, Lisa Marshall explores the benefits in “Do Good, Feel Good: The Helping – Health – Happiness Connection.” Volunteering, researchers point out, has been shown to decrease stress levels, assuage chronic pain and depression and boost immunity. Seven studies suggest that selfless giving may even help us live longer. Acts of kindness evidently prompt our bodies to produce chemicals that make us feel calmer and happier. As a bonus, these chemical changes also show up when we simply witness a good deed. I remember one little guy about two years old who came to trick-or-treat at our house one Halloween. Apparently he had learned to give back in return from something received. When I gave him a treat, he reached into his pumpkin bucket of goodies, pulled one out and offered it to me. Then he gave me another and another. He was having a grand time giving out candy and was beaming as he left. At the time I thought those smart parents had done a really nice thing for themselves, since he wouldn’t come home with a bucketload of sweets, but he had received the far better gift of grace. Stephanie Brown, an associate professor at Stony Brook University, suggests that humans are biologically wired to be generous, which might explain this little fellow’s behavior. If you are inspired to go out and live likewise, I encourage you to check out page 30 for a list of area organizations that depend on local volunteers. Whatever your interests or skills, someone needs what you have to give. For special holiday celebrations, Linda Michurski, local vegetarian chef and caterer, has compiled some delicious vegetarian recipes using locally produced ingredients that work as party dishes, sides or a whole feast. She shows how to do remarkably new things with commonly available foods (page 32). Yum. Also this month, we wrap up the first year of New Orleans’ Gumbo Green Games by highlighting the current top contestants in each sector and the best business practices they employ to reduce their organization’s environmental footprint (page 22). We are thrilled to have sixty-eight businesses and organizations participating in this first round. It’s good for all of us as we grow a sustainable community one business at a time. As we head into 2012, I’m inspired by Wayne Dyer’s way of looking at each day, with his “Five Intentions for the New Year” (page 13). I love his counsel, “Commit to at least one daily experience where you share something of yourself with no expectation of being acknowledged or thanked.” We may never know the difference we make when we take the time to smile at a stranger, donate to a food bank, visit a sick neighbor or do some other good deed.

Wishes for happy and peaceful celebrations to you all,

Lolita Werhan, Publisher

contact us Publisher/Editor Lolita Werhan Assistant Editors Linda Sechrist • S. Alison Chabonais Paul Scott • Linda Agnello Colleen Morgan Design & Production Paul Scott Advertising Sales Beth Olson Jeanne Miller Advertising@NOLAHealthyLiving.com Distribution Sonny Daniels • Jennifer Parker Clay Thomas • Peggy Scott • Elizabeth Ohmer Pellegrin Annick Juneau • Keith Thompson To contact Natural Awakenings S.E. Louisiana Edition: PO Box 750758 New Orleans, LA 70175-0758 Phone: 504-330-2157 Fax: 504-324-0131 Editor@NOLAHealthyLiving.com www.NOLANaturalAwakeningsMag.com © 2011 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. SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available for $24 (for 12 issues). Please call 504-330-2157 with credit card information or mail a check made out to Natural Awakenings – S.E. Louisiana to the above address.

Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soy based ink.

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contents 5

4 newsbriefs 8 healthbriefs 10 globalbriefs 11 ecotip 13 inspiration 18 healthykids 20 wisewords 22 greengames 24 greenliving 26 healingways 28 fitbody 36 naturalpet 38 consciousdining 39 calendarofevents 41 classifieds 42 ongoingcalendar 44 community

resourceguide

advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 504-330-2157 or email advertising@NOLAHealthyLiving.com. Deadline for ads: the 10th of the month. EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: editor@NOLAHealthyLiving.com. Deadline for editorial: the 5th of the month. CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Email Calendar Events to: calendar@NOLAHealthyLiving. com or call 504-330-2157. Deadline for calendar: the 10th of the month. REGIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 1-239-449-8309. For franchising opportunities call 1-239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

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 5 INTENTIONS

FOR THE NEW YEAR Daily Intention practices by Wayne Dyer

14 DO GOOD, FEEL GOOD The Helping – Health – Happiness Connection by Lisa Marshall

18 THE PARENT PATH How Children Enrich Our Spiritual Life by Steve Taylor

20 EXPLORING THE

LAST FRONTIER

with Astronaut Edgar Mitchell by Linda Sechrist

24 MEANINGFUL GIVING Tips to Simplify the Season by Beth Davis

26 GOOD VIBRATIONS

Sound Healing for the Soul by Erin Lehn Floresca

28 THE UPSIDE OF

DOWNHILL SKIING Make the Most of Peak Experiences by Randy Kambic

30 EVERY SEASON

A REASON FOR GIVING Local Volunteer Opportunities

by Colleen Morgan

32 SUSTAINABLE

HOLIDAY FEAST Local Foods prepared By Linda Michurski

36 INTERSPECIES FRIENDSHIPS

Crossing Boundaries for Good by April Thompson

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natural awakenings

December 2011

Reserve your Holiday Festivities in the Elegance and Charm of a “Full English Tea” Room!

One of the Largest Selections of Loose Leaf Teas in the South! Quaint & Cozy European Atmosphere Finest Quality & Excellent Service Full Menu All Day n High Tea Menu Sandwiches n Organic Salads n Vegan-Kosher COURTYARD GARDEN RESERVE YOUR SPECIAL EVENT WITH US!

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734 Rutland Street • 985-898-3988 www.englishtearoom.com

Old WOrld Mediterranean dishes Local, All Natural and Organic* Ingredients Used

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Nur's Kitchen

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Something for Everyone! Delicious, Wholesome Foods Vegetarian & Vegan Selections Soups ~ Salads Sandwiches ~ Burgers House-made Desserts w/ Mostly Organic Ingredients

207 N. New Hampshire - ph: 985-893-8711 Historic Downtown Covington

www.toadhollowcafe.com

New Orleans

newsbriefs Sundays Vegan Brunch

aw foodies will be happy to hear about the vegan brunches now being served every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Grits Bar, 530 Lyons St., New Orleans. The brunch is prepared by Superfood Bar Chef, Amie Havens, who has a background in fine dining. Havens enjoys applying her classical French culinary knowledge and skills with a new modern raw, vegan twist. “Vegan food can be just as beautiful and rich, all it takes is patience and a palate. I love working with superfoods, incorporating antioxidant rich foods into everyday cooking,” says Havens. Menus change weekly. The $16.95 price includes service, coffee, tea and the Saint’s Game. Because there are gambling machines, children are not allowed. Walk-ins are welcome. Superfoods Bar, located at 4113 Magazine St, is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Sunday. For menu information or to RSVP for brunch at Grits, go to http://www.facebook. com/event.php?eid=214260281979645 or call 504-891-7733.

Caroling in the Vines

ontchartrain Vineyards will be offering a number of opportunities to lift a glass of cheer this season. On December 10th, the vineyard will hold an open house, called “Caroling in the Vines,” from noon until 5 p.m. Celebrants will be treated to music while sipping and shopping for gift baskets and wine specials. Of course, there will be tours and great views of the vineyards and terrace. The evening before, December 9th, the winery will host one of its private dinners where local dishes are paired with just the right wine, all served in the cozy old world style Tasting Room. The cost is $65 per person and seating is limited. The price does include wine pairings, gratuity, and tax. In 1991 John Seago, the vineyard’s winemaker, started the business by planting five and a half acres of vines and today it is the only winery in the state producing table wines exclusively from traditional bunch/wine grapes. Today, with partner Lincoln Case, Seago produces and sells two white wines, a rose, three reds and a port labeled with provocative names such as Le Trolley, Zydeco Rosato, Dah Red and Port of New Orleans. The wines are widely available at stores and restaurants throughout the area as well as through a wine club, where members receive three bottles of wine four times a year plus special discounts on wine and merchandise. The website has a list of locations. Pontchartrain Vineyards is located at 81250 Old Military Road in Bush, Louisiana. The Tasting Room hours are Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. For reservations or details on events or products call 985-892-9742 or visit PontchartrainVineyards.com. See ad on page 33.

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Baldwin Motors Shares the Love

Vitamins & Herbs ~ Herbal Tinctures Groceries ~ Body Care ~ Bulk Herbs Organic Produce ~ Homeopathic Medicines

Sunshine Garden

Health Food Store Over 25 Years in Service

Nutritional Counselling

Available by Appointment ustainability-minded consumers 985-893-1463 who are in the market to buy Mon-Fri 10-6, Sat 10-3 a new car will want to check out 124 N. Jefferson, Covington Subaru. In addition to working towards more fuel efficient cars, Subaru of America, Inc. has made great strides to reduce its environmental footprint in the manufacturing process. John Baldwin, owner of Baldwin Motors in Covington, a Subaru dealership, feels good about the commitment made by Subaru of America, Inc. to the global environment, society at large, their customers and employees. For example, 99.8% of the Indiana assembly plant’s refuse is recycled. About 5% of it goes to a waste-to-energy plant that burns waste to make steam to heat Indianapolis downtown. Zero waste is their goal. Of note is that even in this economic downturn, the Subaru plant had no layoffs. In the spirit of the season, for every new car sold, Baldwin will donate $250 to the customer’s choice of one of five charities. The targeted charities include American Forests, ASPCA®, Make A Wish®, Meals on Wheels and Special Olympics. The program, called Share the Love, will run through January 3rd, 2012. Baldwin Motors is a local family owned business that has been serving area customers since 1950. The full service dealership sells new Subaru and Lincoln-Mercury brand cars and a wide variety of pre-owned vehicles.

Baldwin Motors is located at 1730 N. Highway 190, Covington. Contact the sales office at 888-486-3576. Find out more about Baldwin Motors at BaldwinMotors.com. See ad on this page.

Get a great deal and support a great cause.

Christmas in the Country

very year the city of Covington puts on Christmas in the Country. Shops in the historic downtown area will be decorated for the holidays, holding open houses and offering specials and discounts to seasonal shoppers who prefer a more serene experience to that of the mega malls. Covington’s charming downtown streets are lined with local one of a kind businesses and shops, just the place to pick up that unique gift or one-of-a-kind treasure. Local restaurants also offer casual dining in charming spaces when shoppers need a break. Christmas in the Country runs through December 24th.

1 7 3 0 N H w y 1 9 0 C o v i n g t o n , L A 7 0 4 3 3 8 0 0 . 5 3 3 . 4 3 0 8 Ð b a l d w i n s u b a r u . c o m

Get a great deal on any new Subaru and weÕll donate $250 to your choice of five charities. Now through January 3, 2012 natural awakenings

December 2011

Divine Yoga

Green Drinks Networking and Bazaar

n December 15th, the Green Collaborative will hold a general meeting at 4 p.m. at the Eiffel Society, 2040 St. Charles Avenue. This is an opportunity to connect with the eighty plus sustainably-minded people from local nonprofits and businesses as they collaborate to make New Orleans as innovative and resilient as possible. The meeting is followed by Green Drinks and a Green Bazaar. For more information call 504-525-2121.

visit to the home of Gary and Elizabeth Eckman is an experience, indeed. Their home is a former welder’s shop attached to a lofty art deco mansion covered in vines and seasoned by time. The building at 1223 Baronne is also the home of Divine Yoga, where, in a large room covered with mats , inspired and enlightened individuals gather to experience Kundalini yoga. This version of the ancient practice, which dates back to at least the fifth century B.C., is considered the most comprehensive form, because it combines meditation, physical practices and breathing exercises, according to Eckman. In addition to multiple sessions of Kundalini, all of which are by donation, the Eckmans also offer 5 a.m. Sadhana, midmorning Sivananda on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and Vipassana on Wednesday evenings. Capoeira, a Brazilian art form that combines elements of martial arts, sports and music, is offered at noon Saturdays. Some of these classes are in the new building nearby at 1228 Oretha Castle Haley, where the couple offers space to interested teachers for a very reasonable price - $11 a month, if they can afford it. “This is not a businessstyle yoga program,” Elizabeth said. “This is an incubator for people who want to offer something to the people of New Orleans.” To commemorate the beginning of the Aquarian Age, Divine Yoga friends and supporters gathered for an all-night full-moon vigil on November 10. Elizabeth Eckman noted that at 11 a.m. on 11/11/11, the planets came into alignment, ushering in a time when people will take responsibility for their own well-being and bring peace and harmony for humans and the planet. For more information on the offerings of Divine Yoga visit YogaNola.com. See ad on page 29.

Sports Therapy Yoga Classes

laiborne Davis, a certified Yoga Tune Up ® instructor will lead a series of classes in sports therapy yoga from December 3 to 11 at the two Wild Lotus Yoga studios. YogaTuneUp® is a health and fitness crossover practice designed to ease pain, improve posture, reclaim mobility and enhance range of motion. Participants can expect to travel biomechanically and physiologically through elements of yoga, Therapy Ball self-massage, corrective exercise, calisthenics and conscious relaxation to help improve performance of all activity. No prior experience is required. Classes will be held alternately at the Uptown and Downtown Wild Lotus Studios. See the Event Calendar listings for December 3, 4, 10 and 11 for details of each class. For inquires and registration call 504-899-0047 or visit WildLotusYoga.com. See ad on page 29.

New Orleans

NOLANaturalAwakeningsMag.com

Carrollton Flower Market

isa Rogers was looking for a workspace for her antiques business in 2004, but instead found a whole new business when she discovered the charming Carrollton Flower Market on Dublin St. Prior to moving to New Orleans Rogers had worked in the antique business as a gilder, restoring antique picture frames using gold leaf. The building, which was for sale because the owner was retiring, was a perfect space for Rogers’ business. But in the process of acquiring the building, she fell in love with the business and decided to carry it on, keeping the tradition of friendly, personal service. “I like to know my customers and anticipate their needs. And I want them to feel welcome either to purchase one stem or flowers for a wedding.” Rogers describes her flower offerings as more ”garden style” with an eclectic mix of flowers. Though fair trade and sustainably grown flowers are difficult to get, she has been able to offer fair-trade premium quality long stemmed roses. “I sell a lot of roses and have developed a more personal connection with that link to the farms in Ecuador and am grateful that I can support those who are making a difference in their communities.” Besides flowers for all occasions, the shop sells one of a kind gift items such as old English dinner bells, paperweights, antique garden items and gilded mirror frames.

Experience the deepest, most luxurious massage on the planet Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy® Rich in Eastern history and tradition, Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy® (AOBT) is now available to the Northshore. Performed by a professional, AOBT is an effective, safe and grounding therapeutic experience. Using the most advanced barefoot bodywork techniques, Susan delivers slow, deep, flowing strokes to the body. Using an overhead bar system for support and balance, tension and stress are massaged away.

Susan Trahan, LMT The Northshore’s ONLY Certified Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapist. 434 N. Columbia St., Ste.L Covington, LA 70433 www.AshiatsuStudio.com LA Lic #2930

(877) 623-FEET (3338)

The Carrollton Flower Market is located at 838 Dublin St., New Orleans. Contact the shop at 504-866-9614 or visit CarrolltonFlowerMarket.com. See ad on page 11.

New Journey Into Wellness

mazing Reiki, Tianne Lastra’s Reiki practice, is enjoying its home in the Journey into Wellness center which opened on November 1, 2011. Journey into Wellness is located at 3939 Houma Blvd, Bldg. 3, Suite 15, in the Doctor’s Row medical complex near East Jefferson Hospital. The center houses multiple complementary modalities in the newly renovated space. Lastra opened the center in order to be able to provide a variety of complementary therapies under one roof including, but not exclusively: Reiki, healing touch, massage, Vibroacoustic table therapy, and mind-body exercises. Class space and rooms for practitioners to rent are available. On December 3rd and 10th a Guided Imagery Group will be offered at Journey into Wellness from 12 noon to 1:30 p.m. The two-week group will include instruction, breathwork, progressive muscle relaxation and guided imagery. Lastra notes that imagery has been used successfully to lower blood pressure, reduce pain and enhance immunity. To register for this class call 504-390-7990. For inquiries about the center, call 504-909-3723 or visit JourneyIntoWellness.net. See ad on page 37.

Come Experience Gentle Healing by a Licensed acupuncturist & chinese herbaList

Treatments combine acupuncture and herbs with moxibustion, Tui-Na massage, Acu-pressure and Cupping. Our facility has five treatment rooms and an herb pharmacy with over 300 powder extracts used for customized formulas.

Holiday Season Gift Certificates with a 20% Off Initial Treatment. Ashley Johnson, ACA la l ic #200030

Master of Science in Oriental Medicine

Offering Comprehensive Treatment for: • Pain Management • Musculoskeletal Disorders • Smoking Cessation • Stress & Anxiety • Sports Related Disorders • Many Chronic Disorders

Audubon Acupuncture & Herbs 504-522-8868 • O ff-S treet P arking 2222 Magazine S t ., n ew O rleanS , 70130 natural awakenings

December 2011

healthbriefs

NUTTY HELP FOR DIABETES

Acupuncture

Eases Unexplained Symptoms

atients that experience medically unexplained symptoms might benefit from acupuncture, according to new research by the Institute of Health Services Research, Peninsula Medical School, at the University of Exeter. The study involved 80 adults that had consulted their general practitioner eight or more times in the previous year for problems such as headaches, muscle pain, extreme fatigue or joint and back pain. Half received up to 12 sessions of five-element acupuncture during a period of six months; the remainder received no extra treatment. The patients receiving acupuncture reported improved well-being and scored higher on an individualized health status questionnaire than the control group. They reported that their acupuncture consultations became increasingly valuable and that the interactive and holistic nature of the sessions gave them a sense that something positive was being done about their condition. Professor Andrew Gould, who led the study, says it is important to offer patients other options when conventional medicine isn’t working. “It’s soul-destroying for both the patient and doctor when there’s no clear reason for the symptoms patients are suffering from,” he explains. “We don’t know how acupuncture is making a difference, but it seems to be something to do with the treatment, rather than just a placebo or the one-to-one care the patients are getting.” The study was the first of its kind in the United Kingdom. The research results were published in The British Journal of General Practice.

MAGNOLIA ACUPUNCTURE CLINIC

ew research from St. Michael’s Hospital and the University of Toronto reports that consuming two ounces of nuts daily as a replacement for carbohydrates (muffins were used in the study) is effective in glycemic and serum lipid control for people with Type 2 diabetes. The researchers concluded that all nuts—whether mixed, unsalted, raw or dry-roasted— offer benefits for control of both blood glucose and blood lipids and could be consumed as part of a strategy to improve diabetes control without weight gain. Source: Diabetes Care

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Acupuncture encourages self-healing by bringing your body into a state of balance and harmony.

We offer personalized treatments in a warm and inviting setting with a gentle, comforting touch.

Chinese Medicine can treat a wide variety of conditions. Please contact us for a free consultation to determine if acupuncture is right for you.

Ashley Miller, ACA, MSTOM 434 N. Columbia St, Suite L Covington, La 70433 (985) 590-5192 magnolia.acu@gmail.com

New Orleans

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Most diets leave acid waste, which many experts agree is the foundation of disease. Ionized Alkaline Water can increase your body's PH and dramatically improve health concerns like:

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Ionized Alkaline Water www.healthquestph.com Dave Kuhnau 985.893.0925 / 985.502.4511

The Arts Relieve Holiday Stress Massage T Beats Meds for Back Pain

new study conducted by the Group Health Research Institute of Seattle suggests that massage therapy may be better than conventional medicine alone for easing lower back pain. Researchers recruited 401 patients with chronic back pain and found that those receiving a series of either relaxation or structural massage spent fewer days in bed and were more active than those receiving “usual medical care,” ranging from painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs and muscle relaxants to physical therapy. Lead study author Daniel Cherkin, director of the institute, concluded: “If you’re having continuing problems with back pain, even after trying usual medical care, massage may be a good thing to do. I think the results are pretty strong.” Funded by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, part of the U.S. National Institutes of Health, the study was published in the Annals of Internal Medicine.

he hustle and bustle of the holiday season can leave us stressed, fatigued and even anxious or depressed. But according to studies sponsored by the Norwegian University of Science and Technology’s Nord-Trøndelag Health Study, there are many artful ways to relieve these conditions: Painting, dancing, playing a musical instrument or even attending a theater performance or concert may help us feel better, healthier and more upbeat. The researchers worked with more than 50,000 participants, using questionnaires, interviews, clinical examinations, and blood and urine samples to assemble detailed health profiles. The data was controlled for chronic illness, social relations, smoking and alcohol. What most surprised the researchers was that the study findings held true regardless of socioeconomic status; whether a truck driver or bank president, participating in the arts had a positive effect on the individual’s sense of health and well-being.

Make an appointment at www.avivamassage.com or call 985-727-9665

Bodywork Energy Modalities Cert. Hypnotherapy Massage Meditation Reiki Workshops

601 Lafitte St, Mandeville A Service of HeartLight Enterprises, LLC #E2445

If you want to be treated as the whole being you are, AVIVA Massage & Well-Being Center on The Northshore is for you. View our services & purchase gift cards at www.avivamassage.com.

THE PERFECT GIFT FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Choose from:

Musical History Map (rolled poster) $24.95 USD Musical History Map (goldtone framed poster) $119.95 USD

Music Posters Visit our website to order online via paypal at MusicPosters.com/nanola natural awakenings

December 2011

5001 Hwy 190 E Service Rd Suite B-3 Covington, LA 70433

www.brainworks.us

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

Got Faith?

Global Religion Remains Strong Despite Repression

Neurofeedback, or brain-training, is a safe and non-invasive therapy that can lead to long term improvement in regulating ADHD, insomnia, autism, anxiety, and other disorders. It is a process that balances and strengthens the connections in the brain. If you or someone you know could benefit from these services, please call us for a free consultation.

(985)- 809-7077

In a recent, nondenominational global survey of 18,000 people across 24 countries by UK research firm Ipsos Mori, 70 percent identified themselves with a chosen religion. Thirty percent said that their religion motivates them to give time or money to people in need and 73 percent of those under age 35 said their religion or faith was important in their life. At the same time, Rising Restrictions on Religion, a recent report by the Pew Research Center’s Forum on Religion & Public Life, found that more than 2.2 billion of the world’s total population of 6.9 billion people live in countries where either government restrictions on religion or social hostilities involving religion rose substantially between 2006 and 2009. Most of the countries that experienced substantial increases already had high levels of restrictions or hostilities. “This survey shows how much religion matters and that no analysis of the contemporary world, political or social, is complete without understanding the relationship between faith and globalization,” says former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, a patron of the Tony Blair Faith Foundation. “There is much to encourage the view that people can learn to respect those of another faith and live with them peacefully. Interfaith dialogue and action today is not just an interesting but peripheral minor subject; it is the essence, central to creating greater social cohesion and harmony.” Sources: Christian Today (UK); PewForum.org

Bully Beaters

Cooperation is Key to Social Harmony Bullies seem to be made, not born. A study from the University of California, Berkeley, concludes that a cooperative school experience, versus a competitive one, can play a major positive role in the socialization of students. Researchers canvassed 217 students in grades three through five, measuring how much they liked to cooperate or compete with their peers, and how often they acted with aggression or kindness toward them. The youngsters also estimated how often their teachers put them in small groups to complete assignments together, a classroom strategy known as “cooperative learning,” because the students have to collaborate with one another to get their work done. Students that engaged in more frequent cooperative learning were more likely to say they enjoyed cooperating with others and reported exhibiting kind, helpful, pro-social behaviors. In contrast, students that said they preferred to compete were significantly more likely to act aggressively toward their peers and try to do them harm. “You too can move away from the past and towards The results suggest that cooperation begets cooperation. The researchers a life of vitality, wholeness and fulfilling relationships.” further concluded that cooperative experiences promote the development of the personality trait of cooperation. Individual, Couples Based on their results, the researchers & Family Therapy advocate more cooperative learning in classrooms as a way to promote positive Attachment Psychotherapy / EMDR behaviors and combat bullying, or harmintentioned aggression. Andrea Scheele, LCSW, LMFT 1303 Amelia Street New Orleans, LA 70115 (504) 899-2686

New Orleans

NOLANaturalAwakeningsMag.com

Source: Greater Good Science Center

ecotip

Journey into Wellness

The Greenest Tree

a place of learning & complementary therapies

Go Natural for Christmas

The star of many families’ seasonal décor, the annual Christmas tree does not need to become an environmental burden if selected with care. While some individuals have strong opinions about the virtues of a natural tree versus an artificial one, each can have pros and cons. The National Christmas Tree Association points out that 85 percent of the plastic trees sold in the United States are imported from China and may contain toxic chemicals, while evergreen trees can be grown in all 50 states. Even with a real tree, however, there are factors to consider. How far did the tree travel? The distance traveled from its source impacts the carbon footprint, due to the fuel expended to transport it. Most vendors can tell you the state of origin, but how about pesticides? Conventional Christmas tree farms are reputed to use abundant pesticides to keep their product looking picture-perfect. Ask if the seller is the grower and/or knows the answer. Typically, a temporary sidewalk or street corner seller may not; a better bet can be a u-pick-it tree farm. Put a cut tree in water within a few hours after trimming the base a flat one-half to one inch; some people add an aspirin to the water to enhance absorption. According to the 2009 National Geographic Green Guide, Americans annually discard 30 million cut trees after the holidays, with the wood wasted in landfills. Alternatively, a program in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, collects them to combat coastal erosion. Locate tree growers by state and learn how to dispose of trees responsibly at PickYourOwnChristmasTree.org. GreenPromise.com publishes a list of organic Christmas tree farmers at Tinyurl.com/65oqh9. When choosing a live tree, keep it properly hydrated and just repot it in the yard after the celebrations conclude. Find detailed steps for care and planting from WikiHow.com at Tinyurl.com/6dyauj and Tinyurl.com/3rj582n.

For the Holidays:

Fresh Wreaths, Garland & Plants; Holiday Ribbons, Hand-Made Bows & Much More!

Flower

CARROLLTON

838 Dublin Street Inspiring Designs City-wide Delivery We specialize in Super Premium Fair Trade Roses

MARKET

504•866•9614 www.carrolltonflowermarket.com

A new concept of multiple complementary modalities at one site. Located in newly renovated space in a medical complex.

by appointment only Offering cancer patients and others with serious illnesses new techniques for easing the path back to wellness. Services include a variety of complementary therapies:

• Reiki • Healing Touch • Massage • Vibroacoustic table therapy (FDA approved) • Mind-Body Exercises

• Angel Therapy • Compassionate and motivational sessions for cancer patients • Classes • Other Therapies

Tianne Lastra, Director 3939 Houma Blvd., Bldg. 3, Suite 15 Metairie, LA 70006 Phone: 504-909-3723 www.JourneyIntoWellness.net

Tamashii Karate & Tai Chi Center Improve Health, Fitness, Personal Safety • All Ages • Morning , Evening, Group & Private Classes • Rejuvenate Energy • Reduce Stress • Lose Weight • Lower Cholesterol • Discover Qi Gong • Energy Methods • Build Self Confidence

Treatment rooms and class space for practitioners are available to rent.

Tai Chi Chuan 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.

Master King Lam, Over 38 years Martial Arts Experience

504-866-2241 8132 Willow Street • New Orleans kinglam1131@yahoo.com www.kinglamtaichi-karate.com

natural awakenings

December 2011

LATINO FARMERS COOPERATIVE OF LOUISIANA THE GIVING GARDEN FUNDRAISER Get a 3’ x 8’ raised-bed vegetable garden in your back yard for $350. This includes: • Construction and Installation • Tilling and installation of fertile soil • Planting of vegetable/herbs plants • Educational consultation

This fund-raising benefits the Latino Farmers Cooperative of Louisiana’s social services and hunger relief efforts to the Latino community in need.

GIFT CERTIFICATES ARE AVAILABLE! For Information Contact: (504) 333-3611 or info@LatinoFarmersCoop.org

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C h o o s e G r e e n e r, Safer Playthings Millions of children’s toys have been recalled in recent years to head off hazards from lead content, possible choking and other personal safety issues, thanks to supervision by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. But none are monitored for their environmental impact, which opens another can of worms. Action figures and dolls are often made from PVC, the worst polluting plastic, and their packaging often quadruples the size of a toy’s environmental footprint, typically ending up in a landfill. Teddy bears are often stuffed with synthetic, petroleum-based fillers and pesticide-heavy cotton. Other toys, including stuffed animals, are sprayed with brominated fire retardants; the kind that turn up in breast milk. Even some wooden toys may be coated with varnishes and paints that are high in air-polluting volatile organic compounds (VOC). To combat this troubling trend, look for all-natural stuffed animals made with organic fibers, wool batting, recycled sweaters or even tofu; search out toys that have shifted to PVCand phthalate-free plastics; and use beeswax instead of synthetic clay and colored play dough for craft projects. It’s best to purchase toys from local manufacturers that can certify they follow U.S. environmental, health and safety regulations and use minimal packaging. Favor wooden toys that are finished with nontoxic, natural oil or beeswax or not finished at all. Sources include local guild shops, craft stores and galleries that carry handcrafted toys made by artisans in the community, using proper safety criteria. Idea sources: ChasingGreen.org (Tinyurl.com/3hxd2ea);TofuBear.com

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hese daily practices will help you move toward Spirit in your thoughts and actions.

Commit to at least one daily ex p e r i e n c e wh e r e yo u s h a r e something of yourself with no expectation of being acknowledged or thanked. For example, before I begin my daily routine, I go to my desk and choose my gift for that day. Sometimes it’s just a phone call to a stranger that’s written to me, or perhaps I order flowers or send a book or a present to someone that has helped me in a local store. On one occasion, I wrote to the president of the university I graduated from to start a scholarship fund; on another day, I took a calendar to the yard man; on another, I sent a check to Habitat for Humanity; and on another, I sent three rolls of postage stamps to my son, who had just started his own business. It doesn’t matter if this activity is big or small—it’s a way to begin the day in-Spirit.

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Become conscious of all thoughts that aren’t aligned with your Source. The moment you catch yourself excluding someone or having a judgmental thought, say the words

“in-Spirit” to yourself. Then make a silent effort to shift that thought to match up with Source energy.

In the morning before you’re fully awake, and again as you’re going to sleep, take one or two minutes of what I call quiet time with God. Be in a state of appreciation and say aloud, “I want to feel good.”

Remind yourself of this statement: My life is bigger than I am. Print it out and post it strategically in your home, car or workplace. The “I” is your ego identification. Your life is Spirit flowing through you unhindered by ego—it’s what you showed up here to actualize—and is infinite. The “I” that identifies you is a fleeting snippet.

Dedicate your life to something that reflects an awareness of your Divinity. You are greatness personified, a resident genius and a creative master— regardless of anyone’s opinion. Make a silent dedication to encourage and express your Divine nature. E x c e r p t e d f r o m I n s p i r a t i o n : Yo u r U l t i m a t e C a l l i n g , by Way n e D ye r, with permission of Hay House, Inc.

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December 2011

DO GOOD, FEEL GOOD

The Helping – Health – Happiness Connection by Lisa Marshall

rowing up on Long Island, New York, young Stephen Post often received an unusual prescription from his mother when he was feeling grouchy or under the weather. “She’d say, ‘Why don’t you go out and help someone?’” he recalls. “I’d go out and help Mr. Muller rake leaves or help old Bobby Lawrence fix his boat. Then, I’d come back feeling better, and feeling

better about life.” Decades later, Post—a professor of preventive medicine at New York’s Stony Brook University—is among a growing contingent of researchers exploring just how such acts of generosity and the feelings (empathy, compassion, altruism) that prompt them may actually improve our mental and physical health. Recent studies have shown that

people that volunteer live longer, suffer less chronic pain, have bolstered immune systems, are more likely to recover from addiction, and experience an in-the-moment sense of calm akin to that which people experience during and after exercise. Scientists have yet to fully understand what the physiological underpinnings are of such health benefits, but early studies credit a cascade of neurobiological changes that occur as we reach out to help a loved one, or (in some cases) even cut a check to a stranger in need. Could generosity be the missing, often overlooked ingredient to a prescription for better health? Perhaps, says Post, author of The Hidden Gifts of Helping: How the Power of Giving, Compassion and Hope Can Get Us Through Hard Times. “This is a young science, but what we have begun to discover is that there is something going on, physiologically, in this process of helping others that seems to make people feel happier and report greater health.”

Helping Hands Live Longer

We’ve all felt it: That blush of innerwarmth we get after we bring a plate of healthful, steaming food to a sick relative, volunteer to read to kids at a local preschool or help sort donations for a shelter. According to a 2010 survey of 4,500 Americans by United Healthcare, 68 percent of those that volunteered in the previous year reported that doing it made them feel physically healthier; 73 percent noted that it lowered their stress levels. Meanwhile, 29 percent of volunteers that suffered from a chronic illness claimed that giving of their time helped them to better manage the illness.

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Other studies, by researchers at Boston College, found that when chronic pain sufferers volunteered to help others with similar conditions, they saw their own pain and depression levels decrease. At least seven studies have shown that people that regularly volunteer or give of themselves live longer—especially if they do it for genuinely altruistic reasons. Cami Walker, 38, of Denver, has experienced firsthand the physical benefits of being generous. After one sleepless night, lying awake and, “feeling sorry for myself,” due to a flare-up of her multiple sclerosis, she decided to take the advice of a spiritual teacher that suggested she, “Give something away each day for 29 days.” On day one, she called a sick friend to offer her support. On day two, she dropped $5 in a hat for some street performers. Another day, she treated a friend to a foot massage. By day 14, she recalls, “My body was stronger and I was able to stop walking with my cane. After months of being too sick to work, I was able to go back part-time.” Wa l k e r s u b s e q u e n t l y w r o t e t h e bestselling 29 Gifts: How a Month of Giving Can Change Your Life. It has inspired a global giving movement, with participants blogging about their experiences at 29Gifts.org. As she recently explained to The New York Times, “It’s about stepping outside of your own story long enough to make a connection with someone else.”

The Helper’s High

University of Michigan researcher Sara Konrath, Ph.D., has found that people engaging in acts that benefit others tend to have more calming hormones like oxytocin and progesterone coursing through their bodies. If presented with a tough situation later, they are likely to react with a muted stress response, churning out fewer harmful stress hormones, such as cortisol and norepinephrine, and maintaining a calmer heart rate. Konrath is studying whether altruistic thoughts and behavior might also be associated with an anti-inflammatory effect on the body. “Just thinking about giving seems to have a beneficial physiological impact,” says Post. For instance, a late 20th-century study by then Harvard Psychologist David McClelland found that when

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December 2011

people watched a film about Mother Teresa’s work with orphans in Calcutta, levels of immunoglobulin A (a marker of immune strength) shot up. A more recent study found that people had higher levels of oxytocin in their blood after they had watched a moving film about an ill 4-yearold boy. Some research further suggests that the act of giving may release natural opiates, such as endorphins, into our system. One landmark analysis of 1,700 people published in Psychology Today found that more than 68 percent experienced a “helper’s high” when physically helping another person, and 13 percent reported a decrease in aches and pains afterward. It’s a concept that’s been documented many times since. Meanwhile, new brain-imaging research has shown that acts of giving (including making a charitable donation) stimulate “reward centers” in the brain. This includes the mesolimbic pathway by which natural dopamine is released, leaving us feeling euphoric. On the flip side, “We found that people that are high in narcissism and low in empathy have higher cortisol levels,” advises Konrath. “They walk around with high stress reactivity, which is really hard on the body.” One other clear example of the health benefits of helping lies in the field of addiction research. Recent studies by Maria Pagano, Ph.D., an associate professor of psychology at Case Western Reserve University School of

Medicine, found that recovering addicts that volunteer to help other addicts stay sober are twice as likely to remain so themselves. That’s because narcissism and self-absorption are often at the root of addiction, and generosity is an antidote to narcissism, Pagano says. “The founders of AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) figured it out,” Pagano continues, noting that a primary focus is on serving others. “They figured out that this selfish root is there before the illness develops, and is sustained unless you treat it. This is treatment; it is a way of continually weeding out the narcissism that made you sick.”

Born to Give

Stephanie Brown, Ph.D., an associate professor of preventive medicine at Stony Brook, is the daughter of an evolutionary psychologist and a pioneer in the study of altruism’s neurobiological roots. In sharp contrast to what she describes as the long-held “self-interested” assumption about human nature (that we help others only to help ourselves), she suggests that humans are biologically wired to be empathetic and generous. “It makes more sense from an evolutionary perspective for us to suppress self-interest,” for the benefit of the whole sometimes, she says. New research from the University of Washington suggests that babies as young as 15 months old exhibit

fairness and empathy. So, why don’t we always stop to help? Our anxious, busy, modern-day lives get in the way, suggests Brown. “It could be that our natural, default state is to help when we see need, but what prevents that is our stress response.” That is, stress often gets in the way: Maybe we pass a stranded motorist on the road, but drive on by because we’re on a timetable. Perhaps our instinct is to offer a helping hand to a homeless person, but we fear that more will be asked of us than we are prepared to give. We wish to bring a meal to a dying relative, but are apprehensive about what to say when we visit. Brown’s recent federally funded studies show that at least some of the calming hormones and quietness of heart often seen in habitual givers may actually precede and enable their acts of selflessness by interrupting their potential stress response before it stalls their helping hand. “I am suggesting that when you see helping going on, something beneficial has already happened to the giver’s body,” says Brown. When givers perceive a need, instead of fretting and fleeing, they calmly stop to help. In the end, everyone walks away feeling a little more generous. Lisa Marshall is a freelance health writer in Boulder, CO. Connect at LisaAnnMarshall.com.

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ocus on someone else for a change, whether it’s looking a store clerk in the eye or refraining from shouting at a referee at a sporting event. “People can become more empathetic if they just practice taking someone else’s perspective,” says University of Michigan researcher Sara Konrath. “When encountering a homeless person, for example, our inclination may be to not go there psychologically, because it is painful to imagine. Allow yourself to try.” n Do something for nothing. “This idea that everything has to be paid back hangs over our lives,” says Stephen Post, author of The Hidden Gifts of Helping. “Just be generous and expect nothing in return. Pay it forward.” n Don’t reserve your generosity for people you know. Do something nice for someone you don’t know or will never meet. n Be consistent. “Don’t think you can be kind in one domain and dastardly in another,” says Post.

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n Do something that you feel called upon to do, or that you are good at. n Slow down, take a deep breath and look around. Need abounds. Stop to help a stranger in some small way, even if you are in a hurry.

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n Don’t help just to get healthy, impress your friends or get a tax deduction. “Motivation matters,” says Konrath. “If you are volunteering just for self-interested reasons, research shows you aren’t going to live any longer than someone who doesn’t volunteer at all.”

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The Parent Path How Children Enrich Our Spiritual Life by Steve Taylor

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irty nappies, wakeup calls in the middle of the night, a house full of screams and squeals, food splattered on walls, a chaos of toys everywhere, no more late nights out, no time to read books, take classes or attend retreats—what could be spiritual about bringing up children? Isn’t spiritual development just one of the many things we sacrifice when we have kids? Many spiritual traditions based on meditation, prayer and solitude maintain that nothing should divert us from our spiritual practices—least of all a family, which takes up so much time and energy. In India, one tradition holds that spiritual development belongs to a later

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stage of life, roughly after age 50. It is only once we have lived through a householder stage, bringing up and providing for our children and living a worldly life, that we can turn our attention to the inner world. After our children have reached adulthood, we have the privilege of meditating regularly, and living more quietly and simply. Many parents, however, find that—far from hindering it—bringing up children actively advances their spiritual development. Seen in the right way, parenthood can be a spiritual path, bringing a heightened sense of love, wonder and appreciation.

Natural Mindfulness

After all, children are such strongly spiritual beings. They naturally have many of the qualities that adults work to cultivate through spiritual development. For example, children are naturally mindful. They constantly live fully in the present, and the world is always a fantastically real and interesting place to them. As child psychologist Professor Alison Gopnik, of the University of California, Berkeley, puts it, “Babies and young children are actually more conscious and more vividly aware of their external world and internal life than adults are.” They have what she calls an, “…infinite capacity for wonder,” that adults only experience at their highest

moments. “Travel, meditation and romantic poetry can give us a first-person taste of infant experience,” as can experiencing beauty, she says. This illustrates one of the most positive effects of having children: They help us to become children again ourselves. In Taoism, the ideal is to be as spontaneous and curious as a child, exhibiting their openness to experience. On the physical plane, Taoist practices like Tai chi and qigong aim to help the body become as supple and flexible as a child’s.

place, but as a state of consciousness, here and now. Heaven is the state of wonder and natural well-being where children dwell and in their company, we naturally re-enter the kingdom. Steve Taylor, a UK university lecturer and researcher, is the author of Waking from Sleep, described by Eckhart Tolle as, “One of the best books on spiritual awakening I have come across.” His new book is Out of the Darkness – from Turmoil to Transformation. Visit StevenMTaylor.com.

Beyond Selfishness

All the world’s spiritual traditions tell us how important it is to transcend our own selfishness; to stop seeing ourselves as the center of the universe and trying so hard to satisfy our own desires. They advise us to help and serve others, so that we can move beyond our separate ego and connect to a transcendent power. The eightfold path of Buddhism aims to cultivate this selfless state and ideally, the path of parenthood can, as well. It’s impossible to be a good parent without being prepared to put your children first. Much of parenthood is about self-sacrifice. Gopnik remarks: “Imagine a novel in which a woman took in a stranger who was unable to walk or talk or even eat by himself. She fell completely in love with him at first sight, fed and clothed and washed him, gradually helped him to become competent and independent, and spent more than half her income on him… You couldn’t bear the sappiness of it. But that is just about every mother’s story. Caring for children is a fast and efficient way to experience at least a little saintliness.” The poet William Wordsworth described how children see the world as “…appareled in celestial light [having] the glory and freshness of a dream.” Yet, as adults, this vision, “…fades into the light of common day.” Having children of our own helps us to reawaken some of the celestial light within. Perhaps this is what Jesus meant too, when he told his disciples, “Unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” This makes sense if we think of the kingdom of heaven not as a future, far-off

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Exploring the Last Frontier with Astronaut Edgar Mitchell

by Linda Sechrist

he sixth of only 12 men to walk the lunar surface, Apollo 14 Astronaut Edgar Mitchell had a lifechanging experience in 1971 as his spacecraft sailed back to Earth. Long before he first published The Way of the Explorer, in 1996, he understood that the beautiful blue planet to which he was returning was part of a harmonious and whole living system and that we each participate in a universe of consciousness. This expanded worldview led him to found the nonprofit Institute of Noetic Sciences (IONS) in 1973, to support individual and collective transformation and realization of human potential. Since its inception, IONS has conducted research in intentionality and prayer in healing; subtle fields and energy medicine; inner dimensions of the healing response; and emerging worldviews. Noetic means “intuitive mind” or

“inner knowing,” and IONS looks deeply into phenomena that do not necessarily fit conventional science models, while maintaining scientific rigor.

H ow wo u l d yo u describe the life-changing experience that happened on your way home from the Moon? The experience, which began with a startling recognition that the nature of the universe was not as I’d been taught, continued to unfold as I saw how my existence was irrevocably connected with the movement and formation of planets, stars and galaxies. I saw the connectedness, felt it and experienced it emotionally. The natural response of my body to the overwhelming sense of unity was another way of knowing; it felt as trustworthy as my world of rationality and

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physical precision. Today, the merging of many factors— including recent discoveries in quantum physics, cosmology, biology, chaos theory and self-organizing systems—is pointing to the recognition of the fundamental interconnectedness and interdependence of all things. It is also affirming the powerful role that directed intention plays in shifting our worldview toward one that focuses on the need to serve the greater good of all nature.

Do you believe that if science and humanity focused more on the exploration of inner space and consciousness, we could discover sustainable solutions for our planet? Civilization’s understanding of the nature of reality and hence, our survival and future well-being, depends entirely upon the emergence of a completely different worldview: a new paradigm that properly addresses, in verifiable scientific terms, our collective relationship to one another, the environment, nature and the universe. Establishing this fundamental shift in common perceptions can lead to changes in thinking, values, behavior and actions based on concepts of interconnectedness, cooperation and interdependence in all human endeavors. It can come about if a significant portion of humankind develops this new understanding and incorporates it into our individual and societal belief systems. Science can bolster this advance by providing reliable and credible empirical data that supports it as a basis for public education. The hypothesis of interconnectedness, proposed by ancient sages from many pre-scientific cultures, has never been rigorously explored or tested by modern mainstream science. Achieving a truly sustainable civilization requires us to apply a more holistic view to the macroscopic world, one that encompasses living systems and social phenomena.

What is IONS doing to encourage the desired transformation of consciousness? Worldview Literacy (WVL) for high school students and beyond is IONS’ latest consciousness-based educational program. Its curriculum explores the pivotal role that our personal and cultural

worldviews play in how we perceive and process information, act and behave. WVL works to increase people’s awareness of our own largely unconscious worldviews by opening a conversational space of exploration where diverse views are welcomed with curiosity and wonder. Such recognition and joint engagement deepens individual and collective understanding and helps students better navigate life when they encounter differing perspectives. Such education can help people of all ages discover critical connections between lived experiences and assumed habits of mind. It can help us develop greater cognitive flexibility, comfort with unfamiliarity, appreciation of diverse perspectives, ability to hold multiple points of view simultaneously, creative problem solving and a capacity for discernment that relies equally on intellect and intuition. It changes the human paradigm.

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The Gumbo Green Games Businesses Commit to Sustainability By Colleen Morgan

n January of 2011 the Gumbo Green Games was launched through a partnership of Life City LLC and Natural Awakenings – Southeast Louisiana edition. Sixty eight businesses and nonprofits have signed up to compete within one of four different sectors: Office, nonprofit, retail and restaurant. Within each sector are three levels based on business size. By signing up these businesses made a commitment to improve their environmental performance and join a community of businesses that care about sustainable practices. Through an evaluation and goal setting process, LifeCity assists businesses and organizations to identify strategies for improvement. But as Lizzy Shephard of LifeCity, the qualifying arm of the contest, says – everyone who has joined the Green Games has made great strides, and that is the most important point. “Green is not cookie-cutter,” notes Shephard explaining that this contest is a process that is unique to each business, so it is challenging to rank them amongst each other. “If they are engaging, that is a great thing. Everyone is a winner here. This is about the greater consciousness and making the effort to understand the context in which we work. Everyone who signed

up knows that they are taking a big first step.” Exploring what the 12 top ranking participants are doing to lessen their environmental impact might help other businesses to get started. Here are some of their strategies.

Energy Efficiency

Green Game leaders use a broad range of strategies to lower energy usage, ranging from very inexpensive to fairly expensive. Some of the simpler practices include using power strips to turn off appliances, using natural ventilation as much as possible, and adjusting thermostat settings to conserve energy. Jackson Restaurant uses a lights-off policy and power management software to keep utility bills down. Window shades and regular maintenance of air and heat equipment also help reduce energy use for some. Practically all contestants use energy efficient lights and recycles them. Many also use passive solar lighting as much as possible. Sensors or reminders to turn off lights at the end of the day might be employed. On the more expensive side, but also higher in savings, Shell has installed

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double-paned windows to keep cold air in and hot air out. Green Serene, InExchange, Shell, Atkins and Second Line Studios have updated insulation and/or weatherized their offices. The use of energy certified equipment, insulated piping and on-demand water heaters are other strategies used. Green Serene eliminated their water heater altogether. The white roof at The Green Project reflects heat and their solar panels provide their energy source. Green Coast Enterprises built their office with south-facing windows to reduce electric bills. Second Line Stages, a LEED-certified movie set, uses energy conserving software to manage some of the energy saving features employed there. Non-building related practices were also considered, such as Shell offering incentives to its employees to carpool. Some companies have showers for staff who commute by bicycle along with bike parking. Atkins, EnExchange and Global Green purchase carbon offsets to mitigate their necessary emissions. La Divina Gelateria has a low-emission travel policy and a fuel efficient fleet. NOLA Brew avoids pasteurization, which saves a bundle on energy. Green Coast Enterprises had an energy audit done to find opportunities for improvement, and tracks its energy and water bills as does Shell and NOLA Brew. Hey Café, Jackson and Atkins have made sure that up to 25% of their suppliers have environmentallyfriendly operations, In Exchange uses up to 50% green suppliers, and at Green Serene, up to 75% of its suppliers are sustainable companies.

Materials Management Recycling and reducing materials used is another area where businesses can take measures to reduce their impact. Most of the contestants recycle the paper they print on, but NOLA Brew and Jackson Restaurant also use it for scratch paper. Other practices include recycled paper for the printer, using chlorine-free paper, and soy or vegetable based ink. The leading companies have policies for recycling metals, plastic, toner cartridges and electronics. Shell even reuses garbage can liners. Most of the companies do not use Styrofoam, plastic bags or bottled water, and only purchase used furniture. Atkins uses recycled shipping materials. Green Serene, In Exchange, Shell and Global Green use eco-friendly cleaning products, and Global Green and NOLA Brew donate their materials and supplies if they are no longer needed. The staff at Global Green also compost their food

waste, as does Hey Café and La Divina, and NOLA Brew even feeds its excess grain to cattle. All of the restaurants at the top serve certified organic food: Jackson, up to 25%; Hey Café up to 75%; and between 76% and 100% of La Divina Gelateria’s entreés and ice creams are from sustainably produced ingredients.

Water

Water conservation is also an important piece of the environmental footprint. Checking for leaks regularly and use of low flow or dual flow toilets and faucets were standard for Green Game leaders. Atkins has waterless urinals and uses water catchment for irrigation. Most use filters on faucets in place of bottled water. NOLA Brew reuses water in their processing to reduce water consumption. Green Serene and La Divina have planted trees to help absorb and filter water and use mulch to retain moisture. La Divina

uses pervious cement to allow rain to be absorbed into the ground rather than run into storm drains. All contestants are to be commended for making the commitment to improve their environmental impact and for joining in this collective effort to evolve into a sustainable community. In the spring of 2012 the first Gumbo Green Game awards ceremony will be held. The purpose of this event is to recognize participants and to raise funds to help small businesses across the region to take similar steps to save money and improve their impact on the Earth, thus preserving our valuable resources for future generations. Co l l e e n M o r g a n i s a f r e e - l a n c e writer, founder of Bayou Rebirth, and environmental editor for Natural Awakenings – Southeast Louisiana. She can be reached at colleen.nolahealthyliving@ gmail.com.

Green Games Eco-Leaders as of November, and their current score: Large office: Shell Oil - 46% Medium office: Atkins Global – 32% Small office (current tie): Second Line Stages - 50% Green Coast Enterprises - 43% Medium non-profit (current tie): Global Green - 40% The Green Project - 50%

Small non-profit: Medium Retail: Small Retail: Small Restaurant: Medium Restaurant: Large Restaurant:

In Exchange - 55% NOLA Brewing - 32% Green Serene - 48% Hey Café - 31% Jackson’s Restaurant - 18% La Divina Gelateria - 35%

68 TOTAL Green Games contestants: AMCREF Alliance for Affordable Energy Allied Waste Arc of Greater New Orleans Art Egg Studios Atkins Global Baynham Environmental, LLC Bayou Kayaks Bead Guy Big Apple 2 Big Easy Bartending L.L.C. Bike Easy Comterra Solutions, LLC Conversations, LLC Cuttin’ Loose Dirty Coast Eco Cafe EcoUrban LLC Egan Construction Management LLC Eglé Distributing Fair Grinds Coffeehouse Feelgoodz Flip Flops Feldmeier Galyean FutureProof, LLC

Global Green USA (New Orleans Office) Greater New Orleans Inc. Green Coast Enterprises Green Courier Green Serene Gulf Restoration Network Hey Cafe Hollygrove Market & Farm IdeaVillage In Exchange Inspired Painter Jackson Joule Energy Katie’s Restaurant La Divina Gelateria LA Green Corps Latoush Launch Pad Partners, LLC Lebanon’s Cafe Liberty’s Kitchen, Inc. Louisiana Bucket Brigade M S Benbow and Associates

Mardi Gras Truck Stop New Orleans Chamber of Commerce New Orleans Food Co-op NOLA Brewing NOLA Green Roots NOLA Paint & Supplies Northlake Solar, LLC Oak St. Cafe Phoenix Recycling Potsalot Pottery Professional Environmental Services Refresh Environmental, L.L.C. Satsuma Nola Inc. Second Line Stages Shell Oil Company / Real Estate Sierra Club New Orleans Strike it Green LLC The Green Project The Purple Monkey The weatherization company Inc Yoga School Young Leadership Council Zuka Baby

natural natural awakenings awakenings

December 2011

greenliving

MEANINGFUL

GIVING Tips to Simplify the Season by Beth Davis

’T

is the season, and a U.S. poll by Harris Interactive reveals that a majority of the stress 90 percent of us feel about the holidays is related to gift-giving. So, solving this problem will set us well on our way to a joyeux noël. The same study found that given a choice, most of us prefer investing in good family relationships instead of more material things, anyway. Natural Awakenings has uncovered four ways that we can make the holidays less hectic and more relaxing and meaningful. First, says Barbara Kilikevich, author of A Mindful Christmas–How to Create a Meaningful, Peaceful Holiday, we have to stop buying into the notion that more is better and that extravagant, expensive gifts are equal to how much we care for one another. “We need to stop believing that doing it all is productive and having it all is meaningful.”

Get Crafty

Homemade gifts are always special. They carry a message of thoughtfulness and love, which is the heart of gift-giving. Making a memorable gift can take less time than we’d spend earning the money for a manufactured gift, driving to the store and back and coping with checkout lines. Ideas are endless; these may stimulate your creative juices.

Learn Tools & Techniques To Create Balance and Transform Your Life in 2012

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n Edible items are always a hit. Consider making something yummy that can be given to everyone on the list. Herbed olive oil, spiced nuts and homemade jams are favorites. n Attractive, reusable shopping bags, made from repurposed or recycled fabric, make practical gifts that can be used again and again. Sew on monograms or paint on designs to personalize them. n Fashioning painted pottery, custom artwork and decorated picture frames can engage kids in anticipating fun holidays with friends and family.

Non-Material Gifts

The Center for a New American Dream, a national nonprofit organization that challenges a “more is better” definition of the good life, suggests giving of oneself— providing gifts of time or experiences that will be long remembered.

n Give a friend her dream, based on an expressed interest and careful research. Sign her up for a class in cooking, sewing, photography or dancing—classes abound in most cities.

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n Mix jars of tasty combinations of loose teas and/or bulk herbs that might include lavender, chamomile or mint. Add a mesh tea strainer to complete the package.

n Invite loved ones to an outing to the zoo, a sporting event or an indoor/ outdoor picnic.

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n Gather favorite family recipes and copy them into a personalized binder.

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n Purchase a gift certificate for a local massage, acupuncture session or other soothing therapy as a way to unwind during or after the holiday season.

n Support the local art scene by giving tickets to a community theater or a museum membership.

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Not every gift needs to be brand-new. Browse vintage and antique shops, estate sales, auctions and consignment stores for amazing treasures. Keep an open mind or go hunting for that certain something for that special someone. Online sources such as EstateSales.net, and gsalr.com can help locate garage, yard and estate sales in communities across the country. Look for items that are unusual or hold special significance.

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n A childhood reminder—perhaps a favorite toy or comic book n Vintage jewelry n A silk scarf, unusual hat or fun bag n Classic books, movies and music n Unique housewares, from vases and candleholders to platters and teacups (Replacements.com can help find missing pieces for sets)

For the Family

For large families or families with grown children, it can be expensive and timeconsuming shopping for a gift for every relative. Try one of these ideas to take the pressure off. n Instead of giving gifts to each member of a family or a couple, think in terms of a single gift for the household. n Draw names. Have everyone in the family put his or her name into a hat and ask each family member to draw one name, so that each person needs to buy only one or two gifts. n Set a limit. In his book, Hundred Dollar Holiday: The Case for a More Joyful Christmas, author Bill McKibben suggests that families limit the amount they spend and instead, make the holidays as much fun as possible, filled with song and food, creativity and connection. With a little planning and a lot of love and care, we can fill the whole holiday season with less stuff and more satisfying joy. Beth Davis is a contributing writer to Natural Awakenings magazines.

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December 2011

healingways

direct, most relevant healing modalities available today.” McFadden appreciates sound for its immediate effect. She takes individual clients on sound journeys with the help of voices, crystal singing bowls, buffalo drums and other instruments. “When we bathe ourselves in healing sound waves,” she observes, “we open up a direct line of communication with our soul.” At the culmination of each session, she allows what she terms the “big music of silence” to envelope the one being healed. McFadden notes that not all healing sounds need to be calming. “Activating music can be just as healing as soft and slow sounds,” she says. Whether we prefer listening to Lady Gaga, Native American flutes or the sound of a heavy rainstorm, the key is to discover what especially resonates with us.

Good Vibrations

Crystal Singing Bowls

Sound Healing for the Soul by Erin Lehn Floresca

any sounds associated with holidays instantly cheer us up, but why? We naturally respond to sounds, because everything in the Universe is comprised of vibration—also referred to as resonance. When we are exposed to healing sounds, our bodies and minds begin to resonate in harmony with them, supporting our well-being. Fortunately, avenues of sound healing are readily accessible in our everyday lives. Engaging in activities such

as singing, drumming or chanting often help us quickly reestablish a sense of balance in the midst of our multitasking lives. Attending an uplifting musical event can render a similar effect.

Sound Healing Therapy

Psychotherapist Meredith McFadden, a sound healing therapist in Medford, Oregon, observes that, “Receiving or creating intentional, healing sound vibrations is proving to be one of the most

Master crystal singing bowl artist Ashana, based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, couples angelic vocals with her massive collection of bowls for a musical healing alchemy recognized worldwide. “Listening to the bowls can have a profound impact on a person’s wellbeing,” says Ashana. Made from pure, crushed quartz, infused with precious gemstones, minerals and metals, “The bowls vibrate at a very high, pure frequency,” she explains. “As we come into resonance with the bowls, mental chatter slows or stops and the mind quiets. Within minutes, our nervous system starts to unwind. In a state of peaceful stillness, the ‘dial up’ to our higher self becomes accessible. This is the optimum state for healing to occur.” Ashana emphasizes that we are all interconnected, so any healing work we do on ourselves affects all of humanity. “As we raise our personal frequency, we can become conscious tuning forks for divine energies to pour through us,” she believes. “We’re all holding a piece of the web.”

Healing Through Song

engage into your space with awareness and implement solutions to positively affect your life. 26

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“Since the dawn of time, humans have been sharing song in their tribe,” says Zurich, Switzerland, recording artist, educator and filmmaker Michael Stillwater. “Pop songs are modern tribal songs, although we have mostly become

a culture of consumers and spectators, rather than participants.” The founder of Inner Harmony Music and Song Without Borders, Stillwater’s is a strong voice in an emerging grassroots global movement devoted to helping people reclaim their inner song. “As a vocal art, singing is unique,” he advises. “It’s deeply connected to our sense of self.” He also notes that if our voice or singing is criticized in our developmental years, we may shut down our creative expression. “We then become like cave dwellers, hiding our voice; there are millions of vocal cave dwellers in our world,” he says. Finding your song—or chant or mantra—almost inevitably becomes integrated with a pathway for rediscovering one’s authentic self. “It’s about letting your voice become part of your own healing medicine,” says Stillwater. His film documentary, In Search of the Great Song, celebrates the use of creative vocal expression for healing and transformation.

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The Reconnection Reconnective Healing

Experience Kirtan

Kitzie Stern, producer of the New World Kirtan podcast, notes that kirtan, or sacred chanting, is known for bonding everyone in the moment of co-creation between audience and artists, followed by quiet meditation in community. Originating in India, kirtan is one of the oldest musical traditions in the world. The mantras used in kirtan open the listener to the experience of peace. Stern explains, “The music that accompanies kirtan also helps our minds to turn off. As wallah (chant leader) Dave Stringer puts it, ‘The chant is the medicine, but the music is what helps it go down.’” One does not have to attend a live kirtan performance to reap its benefits. Stern’s podcast plays a variety of chants to help listeners tune into tranquility. She observes that, “Being able to access the quiet magnificence that exists within each one of us and live within it for some portion of the day helps us to stay sane in the turmoil of the modern world.”

Rediscover Your True Self & Live Free! Underneath the layers of limiting beliefs, fears and the cultural conditioning that we all receive, rests the brilliant essence of our Higher Self. Experience the joy of living from your Truth now. “ I have a peace of mind I never knew could exist.” D.D. NOLA “ Working with Marylou has brought quick resolution to obstacles that were blocking my journey.” Ann W. Atlanta, GA 6312 Argonne Blvd, NOLA 70124 • 504.723.2899 info@marylousmith.com www.marylousmith.com

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Learn more at SoundMovesWonder.com, AshanaMusic.com, InnerHarmony.com and NewWorldKirtan.com. E r i n Fl o r e s c a i s a f r e e l a n c e w r i t e r in Por tland, Oregon. Connect at ErinLehnFloresca.com.

Ortho-Bionomy® Reflexology Cranio-Sacral Therapy

Marylou Smith

Advanced PSYCH-K® Facilitator Reconnective Healing Practitioner

Help your friends & clients achieve relaxation & healing in our fun, educational workshops! Open to anyone with an interest in the healing arts. CEUs available for LMTs.

December 28 & 29 Basics of Reflexology

Peggy Scott

Advanced Practitioner & Registered Instructor • 20 years experience PeggyScottLMt@yahoo.coM – 504-352-0039 – PureenergyBodywork.coM natural awakenings

December 2011

fitbody

The Upside of Downhill Skiing Make the Most of Peak Experiences by Randy Kambic

now brings fresh fun with winter sports and recreation. Crosscountry skiing and snowboarding are healthy options, but neither offers the scope and variety in terrain, movement and exercise afforded by the perennial favorite of alpine downhill skiing. Jen Butson, public affairs director of the Vermont Ski Areas Association, representing 48 facilities, believes that downhill particularly appeals to women, due to its, “ …accessibility to all ages, abilities and body types, its gracefulness, and being a way for a family to experience nature together.” Yet, some skiers may experience diminished interest due to memories of cold limbs, residual aches and pains or crowded slopes. Or, they might be concerned about resorts’ perceived high energy usage. Cost is another factor. Here are some tips to get folks back on the slopes and max out mountain moments.

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Warm-up exercises. Skiing demands slightly bent knees and a firm back to absorb bumps, so do some deep squats and short hops from that position beforehand, advises Dr. Joe Ethen, owner of Lakefront Chiropractic Center, in Glencoe, Illinois. “This exercise targets the upper quadriceps and provides full-range motion of joints.” Using ski poles to initiate turns and propel through chairlift lines works the arms and shoulders, so he also recommends upper body stretching. Foot care. Boots need to be tight fitting in order to transmit the pressure to make turns from the foot through the boot and binding to the ski itself. The necessary snugness can hinder circulation and chill toes. A solution: Loosen boot buckles while waiting for and taking the chairlift, and wear thin, syntheticblend socks that wick away moisture and accelerate evaporation. Avoid the crowds. When skiing on a weekend, locate one or two trails serviced by a mid-mountain chairlift, which is usually far less crowded than the main lift closest to the lodge. “Many resorts have high-speed, four-seat chairlifts, which reduce wait time,” says Karl Winter, vice president of Ski the Rockies, which represents 30-plus resorts in California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, Wyoming and Canada. Eat early or late to get in more skiing while others lunch in the lodge. Take a workweek vacation day or two to totally beat weekend crowds. Safety. Call out, “On your right,” for example, if you pass a skier that’s to your left, to make sure he or she doesn’t ski into your path. Stay aware of faster moving skiers and boarders. “Don’t stop for too long in the middle of a steep trail to rest or take in the splendid views,” counsels Butson. “A speedy skier might not see you there beneath a mogul.”

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Late-season benefits. More natural and manmade snow on the slopes is the norm as the season progresses. Warmer temperatures later in the season also tend to make conditions more comfortable and soften ice and hard-packed snow, slowing speeds a bit and making turns easier. “More snow makes skis easier to control,” explains Winter. “It allows you to glide and carve your turns and maintain a turning rhythm. So, you don’t have to work as hard, which also saves energy.” Many resorts offer special late-season discounts. Ski green. Joining a ski club can deliver savings on lift tickets, as well as lodging booked by the group. Plus, traveling by bus or carpooling saves gas. Remember to properly recycle or dispose of refuse and pick up any trash you spot in the snow. When choosing a destination, check to see if the resort goes for electric vehicles, composting, local purchasing programs, efforts to reduce carbon footprints, water conservation and employee and guest sustainability education. All are elements of the National Ski Areas Association’s Environmental Charter, endorsed by190 resorts that together, host about 75 percent of all U.S. skier and snowboarder visits. Many resorts are adopting the association’s new sustainable slopes and climate challenge programs. If you need skis, but are on a tight budget, consider renting or checking out early season ski swaps, which also can offer more traditional eco-friendly, gently worn clothing. If you feel you must wax ski bases, select a product that is free of PFCs and other petrochemicals, which can rub off into snow and eventually find their way into waterways. With the ultra-smooth, resilient bases of modern skis, waxing has become unnecessary for most recreational skiers. Enjoy winter’s wonderland. For consumer tips and destination directories, visit nsaa.org, SkiTheRockies. com, SnowSports.org and SkiVermont. com. Avid skier Randy Kambic is a freelance editor and writer in Estero, FL, and a copyeditor for Natural Awakenings.

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Stress to Bliss Groups

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December 2011

Every Season A Reason for Giving Local Volunteer Opportunities By Colleen Morgan

‘T

is the season to give thanks, and there is no better way to give thanks than to give back as a volunteer in one’s own community. This community knows how welcome the help of volunteers are in a crisis. Yet once the crisis is over, the work is not finished and the long term work of recovery really begins. Of course, eventually the much appreciated busloads of volunteers begins to wane and local volunteers are needed in even greater numbers.

In the aftermath of the hurricanes of 2005 and the BP oil spill, numerous nonprofits emerged to fill the needs in the area, and many of them still exist and depend on volunteer labor to survive. While these two events are behind us, there are still great needs in our community and many organizations trying to fill those needs. There is something for everyone to do – caring for animals; working with children, youth, or the elderly; rebuilding; gardening; planting trees; answering phones; and much more.

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Here is a partial list of the volunteer organizations in the area. Contact one today: 7th Ward Neighborhood Center (Rebuilding) 7thwardneighborhoodcenter.wordpress.com Animal Rescue New Orleans AnimalRescueNewOrleans.org Arc of Greater New Orleans (Environmental) - ArcGNO.org Audubon Nature Institute (Aquarium, Insectarium, Nature Center) AudubonInstitute.org Backyard Gardener’s Network www.facebook.com/BackyardGardeners Bayou Rebirth BayouRebirth.org Beacon of Hope (Rebuilding) LakewoodBeacon.org Bridge House (Treatment facility) BridgeHouse.org Catholic Charities CCANO.org City Year CityYear.org Common Ground Relief CommonGroundRelief.org Community Center of St. Bernard CCStB.org Freret Neighborhood Center www.facebook.com/FreretNeighborhoodCe nter?sk=info Green Light New Orleans greenlightneworleans.org Groundwork New Orleans GroundWorkNoLa.org Grow Dat Youth Farm GrowDatYouthFarm.org

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Contact us today for a free assessment: (504) 780-2766 • 1-(866) 399-HOPE 4836 Wabash Street • Metairie, LA 70001 • www.arrno.org 30

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Growing Home (Environmental) GrowingHomeNoLa.org Hike for KaTREEna (Environmental) HikeForKatreena.com/index.html

Hollygrove Market and Farm HollyGroveMarket.com Jefferson SPCA JeffersonSPCA.org

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Latino Farmer’s Cooperative of LA LatinoFarmersCoop.org

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Louisiana Bucket Brigade LaBucketBrigade.org Louisiana Green Corps LaGreenCorps.org Louisiana SPCA La-SPCA.org LowerNine.org (Rebuilding) Start the Adventure in Reading StairNoLa.org New Orleans City Park NewOrleansCityPark.com New Orleans Food and Farm Network NOFFN.org New Orleans Outreach NoOutreach.org NOLA Green Roots NoLaGreenRoots.com Old City Building Center OCBCNoLa.org

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Parkway Partners ParkwayPartnersNoLa.org Project Homecoming ProjectHomecoming.net Rebuilding Together RTNO.org Recovery School District RSDLa.net Save Our Cemeteries SaveOurCemeteries.org Second Harvest Food Bank No-Hunger.org St. Bernard Project StBernardProject.org The Green Project TheGreenProject.org St. Tammany Humane Society St. Paul’s Homecoming Center StPaulsChurchNo.org/spc_homecoming_ center.htm Trinity Christian Community of New Orleans TCCNO.org

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Co l l e e n M o r g a n i s a f r e e - l a n c e writer, founder of Bayou Rebirth, and environmental editor of Natural Awakenings-Southeast Louisiana. She may be reached at colleen.nolahealthyliving@ gmail.com

613 Williams Blvd, Kenner LA 70062 (504)441-5555 natural awakenings

December 2011

A Sustainable Holiday Feast

hefs of Southeast Louisiana know that taking advantage of locally grown foods helps to create the tastiest feasts. Local produce is fresher and more sustainable. Why not challenge yourself this holiday season by serving a local holiday feast. It doesn’t have to be difficult and can be a lot of fun. Get together with family and friends and start planning the menu around what’s fresh, local and seasonal. Walk into your backyard and see what’s growing in the garden. Check out your favorite farmer’s market to find out what is in season right now. Go to your nearby grocer and ask the manager what locally grown and produced products he carries. Start reading labels. You may be surprised at what you find. Here are a few simple recipes to get you started.

Arugula Salad with L’Hoste Grapefruit and Steen’s Herb Vinaigrette Serves 4

Roasted Mississippi Sweet Potatoes with Backyard Rosemary Serves 4

½ lb Hollygrove arugula 1 L’Hoste grapefruit, sliced in half and sectioned ½ cup Bergeron pecans ¼ c olive oil 2 Tbsp Steen’s cane vinegar 1 Tbsp Jay Martin’s raw honey 1 clove minced garlic 1 Tbsp finely chopped fresh garden herbs (oregano, sage, basil, thyme, chives, etc.)

4 large Mississippi grown sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced 1 sweet yellow onion, peeled and thinly sliced Olive oil Coarse sea salt Fresh rosemary

Place pecans in oven on a cookie sheet at 350 for about 7 minutes or until toasted, being very careful not to burn. To make vinaigrette, combine olive oil, honey, vinegar, garlic and fresh herbs in a covered jar and shake until well blended. Place arugula in large salad bowl and top with grapefruit sections and pecans. Drizzle vinaigrette over salad and toss.

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By Linda Michurski

Drizzle a small amount of olive oil on a large cookie sheet. Layer sweet potato and onion slices on top, season with rosemary and salt. Bake at 400 for 35 minutes or until completely roasted and tender. Toasted Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Three Brothers Raw Sugar Glaze Serves 4 ½ lb Brussels sprouts, thinly sliced 2 large shallots, thinly sliced ½ cup pecan halves

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New Orleans

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C roque M adaMe

Break off broccoli florets and cut up tender stems close to the head into 1 by 1 inch pieces. Zest and juice half of the lemon. Melt butter with 1-2 tsp fresh chopped tarragon, 1 Tbsp lemon juice, and lemon zest and set aside. Steam broccoli florets and stems until tender. Place in a serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Pour over warm lemon tarragon butter and mix gently. Garnish with tarragon flowers.

¼ cup water 2 Tbsp Three Brothers raw sugar Olive oil Sea salt Fresh cracked pepper Toast pecan halves in a 350 oven for about 7 minutes. In a small bowl, combine the water and sugar and whisk together. Coarsely chop pecans and set aside. Place olive oil in skillet over medium high heat; add shallots and sliced Brussels sprouts and sauté for a few minutes until the sprouts begin to brown. Salt and pepper to taste. Add syrup mixture to the skillet, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Cook about 10 minutes or until the sprouts become tender and the syrup turns to a glaze. Stir in pecans and serve hot.

Holiday Open House “Caroling in the Vines”

Sat, Dec 10th, Noon-5pm Music, Gift Baskets, Wine Specials Tasting Room Hours Wed-Sun ~ Noon-5pm 81250 Old Military Road Bush, LA ~ 985-892-9742 www.pontchartrainvineyards.com

Nola Rum Satsuma Punch Serves 4 4 oz Nola dark aged rum 8 oz fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice 8 oz fresh-squeezed Satsuma juice 4 tsp fresh-squeezed Meyer lemon juice 4 tsp Three Brothers raw sugar Meyer lemon twists

Forget About Your Worries; Get Rid Of Your Pain…

Run a small wedge of Satsuma around the rim of four lowball glasses. Place some raw sugar on a small plate and dip the moist rim of each glass on to the plate. Cut four 1 ½ in strips of Meyer lemon to make the twists. Put a few ice cubes in each glass. Fill a large cocktail shaker half full of ice, add remaining ingredients and shake well. Pour mixture evenly into four sugar-rimmed glasses. Top with ice as needed and garnish with a lemon twist. Linda Michurski is a free-lance writer, selftaught health food guru, and vegetarian/ raw foods chef living in New Orleans. She may be reached at lindamichurski@

Call for a FREE Stress Assessment ($45.00 Value!)

Call Today - 504-250-7477 Massage

Hypnosis Reiki

PSYCH-K

Annick Juneau CHT, LMT #2660

Hands Help Heal www.HandsHelpHeal.com

gmail.com

Steamed Broccoli with Tarragon Lemon Butter Serves 4 1 large head of Louisiana broccoli 1 Isabelle’s Organic Meyer lemon 2 Tbsp Smith’s Creamery butter Tarragon leaves and flowers Sea salt Fresh cracked pepper

Joy of Life! Natural HealtH Find your joy in living with relief from pain and stress. Have more energy, clarity, flexibility and vibrant health.

Kevin Le Blanc, N. D., LMT (LA 2487) Certified Specialist in Natural Healing Arts Medical Massage Practitioner

A result oriented approach using a blend of modalities applied to each individual’s needs.

Massage & Bodywork Shiatsu - Iridology Nutrition - Essential Oils Herbal and Homeopathic Remedies Chakra and Polarity Balancing Custom Blended Natural Remedies

504-535-9771

3200 Lake Villa Dr., Metairie 70003

natural awakenings

December 2011

Sweet Potato Wrapper 2 sweet potatoes, peeled 2 tsp olive oil Pinch of sea salt Several fresh basil leaves, torn in half (to roll inside) Preheat oven to 350° F. Peel the sweet potato and cut the ends off.

Lay pieces flat on a baking sheet. Bake 10 minutes until soft. Allow to cool and gently rub with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt. If wrappers must stand for any length of time, cover after cooled.

Slice thinly, lengthwise. If the potato is long, first cut it in half across the middle.

Helping You Find Your Inner ‘GLO’, Because You Deserve To Shine!

NEW CLIENT SPECIAL 50% off with 4-session package

Holistic Psychotherapy & Counseling Individual Counseling Family & Group Counseling Children, Adolescents & Adults Natural Health Consultation

Gina L. Orihuela, LCSW-BACS, ND, CTN Licensed Clinical Social Worker Board Approved Clinical Supervisor Doctor of Naturopathy Certified Traditional Naturopath

504.466.2266 3213 Florida Ave, Suite D, Kenner

Are you tired of taking prescription drugs with terrible side effects and no results?

Tuscan Kale Chips

Crunchy kale chips are super-simple to make and bursting with flavor. Kale is one of the most nutritious foods by weight; rich in blood-building vitamin K and antioxidant vitamins A and C, as well as minerals such as calcium and iron and satisfying fiber. Roasting the kale brings out a near-addictive nutty flavor. Yields: 6-8 cups chips (dairy-free, gluten-free, low-glycemic) 1 bunch kale, leaf ribs removed, and roughly chopped 1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil Sprinkle of sea salt Preheat the oven to 250° F. Toss the kale with olive oil in a large bowl. Arrange in a single layer on a pair of baking sheets and sprinkle with sea salt. Bake 30-33 minutes, or until crisp. Allow to cool completely to crisp before serving Recipes are from The Balanced Plate and Living Cuisine, by Renée Loux and ReneeLoux.com.

P A R T Y HOSTING TIPS n Create identification cards for appetizers.

HOLISTIC WELLNESS CENTER ake an appointment now to visit this unique world of calming warmth and peace for the restoration of your whole body, mind and spirit.

n Double-line the kitchen trashcan, in order to catch any drips and to save time from having to hunt for another bag after the first one fills up.

Call 504-494-2220 or 504-522-2220.

n Provide a small trashcan and a recycle bin in an easy-to-find place for guests.

Let Bonnie Broel and her fellow healing practitioners change and heal your life! 2220 St. Charles Avenue • email us: info@houseofbroel.com

Conveniently located on the St Charles Ave streetcar line In the Historic Garden District

Bonnie Broel invites fellow healing practitioners into her special spiritual space. Treatment and meeting rooms are available for healing practitioners conveniently and affordably on a per use basis. 34

New Orleans

n Decorate the buffet table with form and function using seasonal fruits, vegetables and small evergreen sprays.

NOLANaturalAwakeningsMag.com

n Use washable plates, cups and cutlery and cloth napkins. If opting for disposables, look for tree-free bagasse plates (from sugarcane fiber), bioplastic cutlery and napkins made from recycled content.

• Alleviate pain • Detoxify the body • Strengthen cardiovascular system

Take your health to the next level with the New Photon Genius.

• Devitalize and clear pathogens, fungus, mold, bacteria, germs, etc. • Regenerate tissue & bone • Improve symptoms of most diseases • Reflow nerve pathways • Empower body’s immune system • Promote weight loss (30 minute session burns over 700 calories) • Call for an appointment • Sessions available: 15min/$27, 20 min/$36 & 25 min/$45

Casso’s Wellness Store & Gym

3308 Cleary Avenue, Metairie, Louisiana

www.edskilling.com

Ph: 504-888-3077 www.TheWellnessStore.com

This information is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to replace or substitute the advice and/or services of a physician or other health care professional. It is not our intention to prescribe or make specific health claims for any of our technologies or products. Any attempt to diagnose and treat illness should come under the direction and supervision of your health care practitioner.

Casso’s Wellness Store & Gym thewellnessstore.com

Water Purification & Filtration Installation and Service Since 1984

Get pure water for your home or business The Wellness Water Company is dedicated to providing the highest quality of water for consumption and use for our customers to aid their immune systems by the removal of toxic chemicals, pharmaceuticals, micro-organisms, and carcinogens that are present in the Southeast Louisiana water supply. Mention this ad for a Complimentary Professional Water Analysis

Wellness Water Company 3308 Cleary Avenue Metairie, Louisiana 70002 (504) 838-8345 www.WellnessWaterCo.com

Jerry “Michael” Casso, P.D., C.N.

Nutritional & Pharmaceutical Consultant

Complimentary Counseling on pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals by a registered pharmacist and clinical nutritionist. • High Quality Nutritional Products • Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs, Natural Hormones • Natural Hormone Balancing Consultation • Alkaline Water available • Therapeutic Massage on BioMat • Hypnotherapy by Delerno Hypnotherapy, who has 50 yrs experience • So Much More...

Phone: 504-888-3077

Fax: 504-888-0782

3308 Cleary Avenue, Metairie, Louisiana 70002 Repeat Daily: I Am Loved; I Am Loving; I Am Lovable Forever. natural awakenings

December 2011

naturalpet Photo: Melanie Stetson Freeman/2006 The Christian Science Monitor

VETERINARY HOLISTIC HEALING

I strive to heal your beloved pet’s whole being, not just treat the symptoms. Acupuncture Chinese Herbal Medicine Food Therapy

INTERSPECIES FRIENDSHIPS

Nutritional supplements Trigger Point Therapy

Janice E. Posey, DVM

erinar t e

985-898-3623/504-466-9129 315 Lee Lane, #104 Covington, LA 70433

pun ctu

Drug-free treatment for common conditions with acupuncture. House calls or office visits by appointment.

Georganna Ranglack, DVM, PhD Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Greater New Orleans Area, North Shore & West Bank

504.874.1189 36

New Orleans

CROSSING BOUNDARIES FOR GOOD by April Thompson

efore Wally and Ann Collito, of North Attleborough, Massachusetts, had a chance to befriend the stray kitten that had appeared in their yard, the couple discovered that another caring being—a crow—had already done so. Over the next few months, the Collitos witnessed an incredible friendship develop between the crow and cat they respectively named Moses and Cassie. The pair romped in the grass, swatting gently at each other like they were born playmates, rather than sworn enemies. Moses often dropped nutritious worms and bugs in the kitten’s mouth, following it around like a protective parent. “If it wasn’t for the crow feeding and taking care of that cat, it would have been dead a long time ago,” relates Wally Collito in a video posted at InterspeciesFriends.blogspot. com. “When the cat would start crossing the road, the crow would holler as if to say, ‘Don’t go in the road, you’re going to get hit.’ Sometimes she would get in front of her and push her back on the sidewalk. It had to be love or friendship.” The story of Moses and Cassie is not an anomaly, but rather an indication of the potential emotional bond between animals, according to Jennifer S. Holland, author of Unlikely Friendships: 47 Remarkable Stories from the Animal Kingdom. “A number of years ago, it was really taboo to attribute empathy to other animals,” she says, “but more scientists today are crossing that line comfortably.” She explains that no one really knows what emotions animals experience or how, although people share the brain’s limbic system, considered the seat of emotions in humans, with other mammals. “There is no reason they wouldn’t have experiences similar to ours in terms of basic emotions,” Holland surmises. Holland’s new book is just one of a growing number of efforts to document the wild landscape of interspecies love, including blogs dedicated to the topic and countless children’s books; one of them, Cat and Crow, by Lisa Fleming, immortalizes Moses and Cassie. “Such stories give us a sense of hope at a time when there is a lot of negativity in the world,” observes Holland. “I think people are looking for a reprieve.” A variety of recent studies by the likes of the University of Cambridge and Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology indicate that empathy and altruism may

NOLANaturalAwakeningsMag.com

be characteristics of species ranging from squirrels to sea lions. Consider the adventures of Finnegan, a squirrel that had fallen out of its nest and into the loving abode of Seattle resident Debby Cantlon. Her pregnant papillon, Mademoiselle Giselle, adopted the injured squirrel, pulling its cage close to her own dog bed. Giselle continued to care for Finnegan after she had her own litter, literally nursing the squirrel back to health. “The drive to nurture and be nurtured is strong, particularly when an animal has lost its baby or parent. This story is a perfect example of the mothering instinct coming to life,” says Holland. Like many human friendships, some unusual animal pairings develop out of the basic need for companionship. One well-known example is Tarra, an 8,700-pound former circus elephant retired to The Elephant Sanctuary, in Hohenwald, Tennessee. Elephants are known to pair up, but Tarra chose to instead bond with a rescued stray dog named Bella. The two became inseparable pals and Tarra proved to be no fair-weather friend: When Bella suffered a spinal cord injury, Tarra stood sentinel at the gate outside the sanctuary office, waiting three weeks for Bella before she could be carried outside for a happy reunion. Baloo, the bear, Leo, the lion, and Shere Khan, the tiger, were each just two months old when they were rescued during a residential drug raid. Noah’s Ark Animal Rehabilitation Center, in Locust Grove, Georgia, took in the trio, and the “BLT” (bear, lion and tiger) became so close that the sanctuary spent thousands of dollars to build a special clubhouse to house them. Eight years later, the three animals—each hailing from different continents—still live like blood brothers.

“Home of the $25 Local Produce Box” Open Tuesday 12pm-6pm & Saturday 10am-2pm 8301 Olive St.

Phone: 504-453-0789

www.hollygrovemarket.com

Amazing Reiki Tianne D. Lastra, Reiki Master

Experience the Sense of Well-being and Relaxation That Reiki Can Bring into Your Life.

•Compassionate & motivational sessions for cancer patients

Services

504-909-3723 tdl3723@aol.com www.amazingreiki.com

Classes & Sessions

(Usui, Karuna, Rainbow)

Crystals • Drumming Animal Reiki • Healing Touch

•Vibroacoustic table – FDA approved

A portion of all funds donated to animal welfare.

THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFT

Photo: Barcroft/Frame

• Paddleboard Sales • Lessons / Rentals • Liquid Vitality Classes

• Paddleboard Retreat • Aspiring Watermen Camp • Club Membership

Also join us on:

New Orleans, LA Madisonville, LA 504-717-8847 4721 Magazine St. ~ 504 Water St. www.NOLAPaddleboards.com

If peace between traditionally antagonistic species is possible, the implications for mankind are obvious. When basic needs are met, the instinct to protect or play can trump the urge to grab, neglect or fight. We can all share and get along better when we take responsibility for creating the circumstances to support that ideal. “I joke that we should give my book to politicians to remind them that a lot of good can come from crossing boundaries,” smiles Holland. “Kindness and companionship can mean survival for all kinds of animals; that goes for humans, too.” April Thompson is a freelance writer in Washington, D.C. Connect at AprilWrites.com.

natural pet care Homeopathy • Herbal Medicines • Nutrition • Skeletal Manipulation Raw meat diets - free range meat & bones - Innova & Innova EVO Solid Gold - California Naturals - Herbal supplements & vitamins Large selection of natural treats, toys & pet accessories

Dr. Adriana Sagrera, DVM 504-834-2023 • www.drsagrera.com 3825 Hessmer Ave, Metairie, LA 70002 natural awakenings

December 2011

conscious dining northshore GOOD EARTH MARKET & CAFÉ 821 Girod St. Old Mandeville 985-674-4329

Offering delicious organic fare at breakfast, lunch and dinner. Also try our juices, smoothies, baked goods, and organic beers and fine wines. Our market has gluten & wheat free products, natural and organic products, vitamins and supplements. Open 8-8 Mon-Sat and 9-3 Sun.

NUR’S KITCHEN

100 S. Tyler St., 10-B Covington, 70433 985-249-6431 Old world Mediterranean dishes prepared with all natural and organic ingredients (as available). Soup, Salads, Appetizers, Sandwiches, Barbeque, and Daily Specials, seasonal veggie dishes. Catering available. Open 11 am. to 4 pm. Tues through Fri. See ad on page 4.

RUBY’S NATURAL FOODS

1030 Hwy 190 West et Casual Dining Slidell 985-641-1620

hest ingredients for our natural homemade dressings, Market offering & organic products ur signature recipes daily.Fresh soups daily.Veggie and supplements.

burgers, burritos, enchiladas, veggie pockNow Serving • Sandwiches ets, fresh salads, chicken and turkey salads. Wine and daily. BeerLunch $8 soup & salad lunch special

Gumbo 2 for 1 Beer served 10:30-3. Seating available. tues -fri, 4pm until close e Hotdogs TEA ROOM ers THE ENGLISH Best Breakfast three years running

734 Rutland Street, Covington - Where Y’at Magazine 985-898-3988 EnglishTeaRoom.com 3100 Magazine Street, New Orleans One of the largest selec(corner of loose Magazine 8th)in tions of leaf & teas the south! Breakfast, 79 F: 504-301-3456 www.gottgourmetcafe.com Lunch, 8and Tea n 8 am to 5 pm / breakfast amHigh to noon served all day. Organic salads, vegetarian sandwiches, delicious quiches, tea infused soups, famous scones. Pharmacist owned and operated, Wellness Tea Blends, nutritional counseling. See ad on page 4.

New Orleans

TOAD HOLLOW CAFÉ

207 N. New Hampshire, Covington 985-893-8711 ToadHollowCafe.com Offering soups, salads, burgers, sandwiches & housemade desserts with wholesome, mostly organic ingredients. Something for everyone including vegetarian and vegan selections. Dine in or take-out. See ad on page 4.

southshore BODHISATTVA TEA SPA

3515 Melvil Dewey, Metairie 504-309-4424 BodhisattvaTeaSpa.com A unique tea boutique and spa with a natural approach to health and well-being. Offering a variety of whole leaf teas, herbs and tea accessories. Spa services include Massage Therapy, Infrared Sauna and Esthetics (Facials, Body Treatments and Waxing), Usui Reiki and Qi Gong. Call and schedule an appt. Mon-Sat 9am-6pm, Sun by appt only.

ECO CAFÉ & BISTRO

3903 Canal St., N.O. 70119 504-561-6585 EcoCafeNO.com Catering and to go orders available. Sustainably operated. SalSoups, Panini’s, and Bistro ads, Hot Plates, and more with fresh all natural ingredients. Vegetarian/vegan options, organic wines, organic Coffee Bar, Full Juice Bar. Tapas Fri & Sat 6-10pm. Breakfast Mon-Fri 8- 11:30 and 8-2:30 Sat/Sun. Lunch Mon-Fri 11:30-3 and Sat/Sun noon -2:30pm.

GOTT GOURMET CAFÉ 3100 Magazine St. (8th), New Orleans 504-373-6579 GottGourmetCafe.com C roque M adaMe

Casual food prepared to a gourmet’s standards. The freshest ingredients in made from scratch food. Salads, soups, paninis, wraps, burgers, gumbo and Chicago style Vienna hot dogs. Take-out in biodegradable containers.Order your favorite menu items in party size quantities. Open Tues-Fri 11-9, Sat & Sun 8-5. See ad on page 32.

NOLANaturalAwakeningsMag.com

HOLLYGROVE MARKET AND FARM 8301 Olive St., NOLA 504-483-7037 HollygroveMarket.com

An urban organic farm and CSA-style co“Home of the $25 Local Produce Box” operative and retail market in the heart of Tuesday 12pm-6pm & Saturday 10am-2pm theOpen city offering local and seasonal produce as well as local dairy and meat products. Weekly CSA produce boxes available for $25 every Sat 10am-2pm and Wed 12pm6pm at main location in Carrollton. Pick-up at satellite locations available. See ad on page 37. 8301 Olive St.

Phone: 504-453-0789

www.hollygrovemarket.com

LAKEVIEW BREW COFFEE CAFÉ

5606 Canal Blvd., NOLA 504-483-7001 LakeviewBrew.com A locals favorite! Unique atmosphere with great food & great people! Two outside patios. Healthy veggie selections, gourmet salads, soups, sandwiches, full breakfast, in-house bakery, & more! Open Mon-Sat 7am-9pm & Sun 7am-3pm. See ad on page 21.

SUPERFOOD BAR

4113 Magazine St., NOLA 70115 Phone: 504-891-7733 LocalCultureNola@gmail.com New Orleans only all raw HealthForce and vegan food bar! Truly delicious food prepared by a professional chef. Offering Smoothies, Teas, Snacks and Nutritionals Kid’s Treats, Veggie V H B Rolls and Wraps, Health Force Nutritionals, Probiotics, Nutritional Literature, Raw & Vegan Preparation Classes and Raw & Vegan Catering. Open 10am. to 5pm. Mon to Sat. ital

ealing

otanicals

THE VINTAGE GARDEN KITCHEN

925 S. Labarre Rd, Metairie Soup order line: 504-620-2495 VintageGardenKitchen.org Healthy and delicious soups created by our chef using fresh, wholesome ingredients without preservatives and hormone-free dairy and meats. Local products used as much as is available and some ingredients from our own organically grown garden.Three soups/ week prepared. Ask about special diets. Order by Tues noon for pick-up or delivery that week. Order on-line or by phone. See ad on page 12.

calendarofevents

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7

Note: All Calendar events must be received via email by December 10 for the January issue. $10/Event Calendar or Ongoing Calendar listing. $15/Upcoming Events. Free community wide events are listed for free as space is available. Email calendar@nolahealthyliving.com for guidelines and to submit entries. No phone calls please.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1

Christmas in the Country – 9am-6pm (Through 12/24). Open house with refreshments, storewide specials and discount shopping. The English Tea Room, 734 Rutland St., Covington. 985-898-3988. Swedish Massage Clinic – 12:45pm & 2:15pm. (also 12/8, 12/15, 12/16, 12/22, 12/23) Help a student with their education at the student massage clinic. Swedish is good for overall relaxation & increasing flexibility. $30/by appointment only. Blue Cliff College, Clearview Mall, across from food court. Metairie. 504-293-0972. Celebration in the Oaks – 6-10pm (Sun-Thurs) 6-11pm (Sat & Sun). Runs thru 12/30. City Park Botanical Gardens sparkle with holiday lights and decorations. Also features amusement rides, holiday photos with Santa, train rides, nightly performances of school choirs and orchestras, dancers, and more. Full service café with hot buttered rum. Adults $7/ children free. City Park Botanical Gardens. Info: 504-483-9415. Deep Tissue Massage Clinic – 6:15pm & 7:45pm. (also 12/8, 12/15, 12/22) Help a student with their education at the student massage clinic. Deep tissue is muscle specific and really works out the kinks. $30/by appointment. Blue Cliff College, Clearview Mall, across from food court, Metairie. 504-293-0972

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2

Neuromuscular Therapy Clinic – 12/45pm & 2:15pm. (also 12/7, 12/9, 12/14). Help a student with their education at the student massage clinic. NMT is a partial body massage focused on a specific problem area. $30/by appointment only. Blue Cliff College, Clearview Mall, across from food court, Metairie. 504-293-0972. Holiday of Lights – 6-9pm. Free community event with Santa, entertainment, light displays, kiddie rides and more. Koop Drive, Mandeville. Info: 985-867-9490.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3

Saturday Morning Massage Clinics – 9:15am & 10:45am. Help a student with their education at the student massage clinic. Swedish on 12/3 & 12/10; neuromuscular therapy on 12/17. $30/by appointment only. Blue Cliff College, Clearview Mall, across from the food court, Metairie. 504-293-0972.

Milk Party! – 7-9pm. Mother to mother breastfeeding support. Certified International Lactation consultant, Julie Holcomb answers questions from establishing a first latch to child-led weaning. Breast feeding babies and toddlers welcome. No registration required. ZukaBaby, 2124 Magazine St, NOLA. Contact: 504-596-6540.

Guided Imagery Group – noon-1:30pm. (12/3 & 12/10) A 2-week group class composed of instruction, breathwork, progressive muscle relaxation and guided imagery. Suitable for beginners. Imagery may lower BP, reduce pain & enhance immunity. Metairie location. Contact: Tianne Lastra 504-390-7990.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8

Freret Market – noon-5pm. 90 vendors with food, art, music, flea market, children’s play area and pet adoption. 4400 block of Freret St., NOLA. Info: 504-638-2589.

Holiday in the Green Light District – all shops open in Green Light District until 9pm. Green Santa, special displays, holiday treats and green shopping. Shop for clothes, toys, artwork and more. 2000 and 2100 blocks of Magazine St in the Lower Garden District.

Freret Street Yoga Open House – 1-4pm. Come celebrate our 1 year anniversary! Meet our staff of teachers and our on-site licensed physical therapist and massage therapist. Participate in our 15 minute fitness assessment to enter a raffle for prizes. 4608 Freret St, NOLA. 504-899-1142. Theosophical Society Covington Lodge Meeting – 2-4pm. (also 12/17) 222 N. Vermont St, Covington. For details: tsincov@gmail.com Deck the Rails in Covington – 4pm-dusk. Free children’s holiday event and trailhead lighting. Covington Trailhead.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 4

Sports Therapy Core Intervention – 11am-12:30pm. Taught by Claiborne Davis, certified Yoga Tune-up ® instructor. Breathlessness & abdominal integration. No yoga experience needed. Wild Lotus Yoga - Downtown, 2372 St. Claude Ave (at St. Roch), Ste 200 Ave, NOLA. 504-899-0047. New Orleans Chapter AMORC Rosicrucian’s – 12:30pm Officers meeting, 1:30pm Pronaos Convocation Rehearsal, 2pm Pronaos Convocation Ritual 3pm meditation/Open Forum Located at 2801 Loyola Ave. Suite 4, Kenner La 70062. For more information: 504-472-5635 .

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 6

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

E-Waste Drop/Uptown – 10am-2pm. Drop off old paint and electronic waste (computers only) to Arabella Station Whole Foods Market. The Green Project’s tent is at the corner of Magazine & Joseph St. in good weather, and inside near the massage table in bad weather.

Free Tai Chi-Qi Gong Class – 6-7pm. Taught by Master King Lam – over 38 years experience in martial arts. Tamashii Karate & Tai Chi Center, 8132 Willow St, NOLA. Call 504-866-2241 to reserve your space.

First Degree Reiki Class – 11am-7pm (12/3 & 12/4) w/Reiki Master Elizabeth Ohmer Pellegrin. Reiki promotes and accelerates healing and balance of the body, mind and spirit. Learn to do Reiki for the self and others. No experience needed. Private classes and retreats on request. Pre-registration required. $250. Info/registration: 504-388-2356.

C. G. Jung Society – 7:30pm. Susan Welsh and Diane Lease consider the role of bodywork in individuation, which Jung considered both a somatic and a psychic process. Movement activities will be included in the program – dress comfortably. $10/ free to members. 2 CEUs. Parker Methodist, 1130 Nashville Avenue.

Free Tai Chi-Qi Gong Class – 9:30-10:30am. Taught by Master King Lam – over 38 years experience in martial arts. Tamashii Karate & Tai Chi Center, 8132 Willow St, NOLA. Call 504-866-2241 to reserve your space.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9

Ashiatsu Studio and Magnolia Acupuncture Clinic Open House – 5:30-8pm. Refreshments will be served as well as mini-sessions of ear acupuncture and barefoot massage. Free. Located in the courtyard at 434 N. Columbia St, Ste. L, Covington. For information call (985) 590-5172 or (985) 507-7771.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10

Cloth 101 –9-10am. Learn about modern cloth diapers, how to care for them, the pros and cons, hands on demonstrations and handouts to take home. Zuka Baby, 2124 Magazine St, NOLA. $20/2 family members. Registration required: 504-596-6540. Keeping Garden Tools in Shape – 9am-noon. Speaker at 10am. Learn how to care for garden tools. Also master gardeners on hand offer advice on planting and care of trees. Free vegetable seeds available. Poinsettias for sale. Parkway Partners Greenhouse, 1137 Baronne St, NOLA. A Noël Open House at Aviva – 9am-1pm. (also 12/11) In conjunction with Noël À Mandeville Festival. Refreshments served and many specials: 10% off ESSentials Bath Salts, Therapearls hot/cold packs, Biofreeze, essential oils; Gift cards in holiday box, Gift card purchases over $100 receive a separate $20 gift card. Available on-line. Restrictions apply. Aviva, 601 Lafitte St, Mandeville, 985-727-9665 or info@avivamassage.com Noël À Mandeville Festival – 9am-3pm. 12/10 & 12/11. Entertainment, food, arts and crafts, shops in Old Mandeville open, children’s activities, including special “post office” for sending letter to Santa, characters in costume, Santa, Scrooge shouting contest. Fun for whole family. Girod St to Trailhead, Old Mandeville. Vendor info: info@ oldmandevillebiz.com. Gretna Art Walk – 9am-3pm. Art walk returns for fall season with more than 80 artists and craft vendors. 2nd Sat each month. 6th St. at Huey P. Long Ave., Downtown Gretna. OCH Art Market – 10am-3pm. Local arts & crafts, food, fresh juices and raw foods from Surrey’s; even a bike repair workshop! 1618 Oretha C. Haley Blvd, Central City, NOLA.

natural awakenings

December 2011

The Madisonville Art Market – 10am-4pm. Art market featuring painting, photography, wood working, pottery, and jewelry along the Tchefuncta River on Water St. in Old Madisonville, near LA Hwy 22. Free. Info: 985-624-7216. Sports Therapy Hip Helpers: Hamstrung No More – 10:45am-12:15pm. Taught by Claiborne Davis, certified Yoga Tune-up® instructor. A practice designed to ease pain, improve posture, reclaim mobility and enhance range of motion. No yoga experience needed. Wild Lotus Yoga – Uptown, 4842 Perrier St, NOLA. For info: 504-899-0047. First Degree Reiki Class – 11am-7pm (12/10 & 12/11) w/Reiki Master Elizabeth Ohmer Pellegrin. Reiki promotes and accelerates healing and balance of the body, mind and spirit. Learn to do Reiki for the self and others. No experience needed. Private classes and retreats on request. Pre-registration required. $250. Info/registration: 504-388-2356. Caroling in the Vines – noon-5pm. Spend a day of fun, music, gift baskets, wine specials while taking in the charm of Pontchartrain Vineyards, 81250 Old Military Road, Bush, LA. For more information: 985-892-9742. Movie Matinee-“We Are Together” – 2pm. A film about the kids from the Agape Children’s Choir in South Africa and their amazing journey, joined by Alicia Keys, Bono, Iman and more. Love offering welcome. Unity Church, 3939 Veterans Blvd (entrance in rear). 504-885-7056. N.O. Radical Faerie Art Show – 6-9pm. In conjunction with St. Claude Art District Second Saturday Art Walk. Includes photography, fashion, sculptural video and paintings of Richard Perez, Todd Phillips, Pat Jolly, Myron Warden, Kelly Brewin, Jonathan Wood, Elissa Millman and Annie Zipkin. Refreshments served. Gallery open to the public. Radical Faeries welcome to VIP lounge. Sidearm Gallery, 1122 St. Roch, NOLA.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11

Sports Therapy Accessorizing – 11am-12:30pm. Taught by Claiborne Davis, certified Yoga Tune-up® instructor. Accessorizing, learning to use props to intensify your practice. No previous yoga experience is necessary, Wild Lotus Yoga – Downtown, 2372 St. Claude Ave (at St Roch), Ste 200. Info: 504-899-0047. New Orleans Chapter AMORC Rosicrucian’s – 2pm Open House 3pm Harmonization Ritual. Located at 2801 Loyola Ave. Ste 4, Kenner. For more information call 504-472-5635.

markyourcalendar Empowerment Hour! *Energy Circle * Positive Healing *Esteem Strengthening

Thursdays at Noon in December (except 12/15)

Location: Affordable Healing Arts – AHA New Orleans Healing Center 2372 St. Claude Ave, 2nd floor

$5 Donation Call 504-264-DAYA (3292) for more info.

New Orleans

The Advent Garden for Special Needs Children – 4:30-6:30pm. Special needs children to age 14 and their families/caregivers are invited to this traditional Waldorf festival hosted by Raphael Academy, 1600 Constance St (Kingsley House in Lower Garden District). Space is limited, so call to reserve a place 504-598-3227 or email jcase@raphaelacademy.org

MONDAY, DECEMBER 12

Second Degree Reiki Class – Time TBA. w/Reiki Master Elizabeth Ohmer Pellegrin, Oku Den (The Deeper Knowledge) is available for Reiki students with 6 months experience in Usui Shiki Ryoho. For private classes and residential retreat information call 504-388-2356.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16

Karate or Tai Chi Gift Packages available – Give the gift of health, fitness and safety with gift certificates for classes taught by Master King Lam with 38 plus years of experience in martial arts. Tamashii Karate & Tai Chi Center, 8132 Willow St, NOLA. More info: 504-866-2241. First Degree Reiki Class – Time TBA (11/12 thru 11/15 day & evening available) w/Reiki Master Elizabeth Ohmer Pellegrin. Reiki promotes and accelerates healing and balance of the body, mind and spirit. Learn to do Reiki for the self and others. No experience needed. Private classes and retreats on request. Pre-registration required. $250. Info/ registration: 504-388-2356.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 13

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

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14

Holistic Education Monthly Meeting/Metairie – 6:30-7:30pm. Sponsored by Holistic Center for Health and Healing, Inc., featuring Dr. Jessica Tregle on guided meditation. Old Metairie Library, 2350 Metairie Rd. Free/open to the public. Inquiries: holistic.education.meeting@gmail.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15

Green Collaborative Meeting, Green Drinks & Bazaar – 4pm. Join 80+ sustainably-minded people from local nonprofits and businesses as they collaborate to make New Orleans as innovative and resilient as possible. Meeting followed by Green Drinks and Green Bazaar. Eiffel Society, 2040 St. Charles Ave, NOLA. Info: 504-525-2121. Holistic Education Monthly Meeting/Covington – 7pm. Sponsored by the Holistic Center for Health and Healing, Inc. Speaker: Louis P. Bauer, Ph.D. on five key factors for peace of mind. Discussion follows. Covington Council Chambers, 222 Kirkland St, Covington. Free/open to public. 985-898-0016.

markyourcalendar

USHERING IN PROSPERITY AND ABUNDANCE FOR 2012 Decmber 30-January 1 Opening the gates to abundance is an art, a gift and a process. Experience the release of blockages and opening of opportunities Led by Pat Brawley, Ph.D. and Dolores Watson Donation Based Retreat Reservations: 504-905-4090

FloweringLotusMeditation.org

NOLANaturalAwakeningsMag.com

Tea Tasting/Bodhisattva Tea Spa – 7-11pm. The public is invited to taste the teas at this new tea boutique and spa, offering whole leaf teas, herbs and tea accessories as well as massage therapy, infrared sauna and esthetics, yoga and reiki. Free. 3515 Melvil Dewey, Metairie. Info: 504-309-4424.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 17

Cloth 101 –9-10am. Learn about modern cloth diapers, how to care for them, the pros and cons, hands on demonstrations and handouts to take home. Zuka Baby, 2124 Magazine St, NOLA. $20/2 family members. Registration required: 504-596-6540. Microdermabrasion Party – 10am-4pm. Microdermabrasion is a non-surgical procedure that targets the surface of the skin for a gentle abrasion that reveals newer, healthier, younger looking skin. $40/party; also 30 min. head, neck, and shoulder: $30. 15% off products for party goers. Esthetique Facial Spa, 5702 Magazine St. By appointment only: 504-896-1006.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 18

New Orleans Chapter AMORC Rosicrucian’s – 1pm Festival Of Lights Rehearsal, 2pm Festival of Lights Ritual, 3pm TMO Home Oratory. Located at 2801 Loyola Ave, Ste 4, Kenner. For more information call 504-472-5635.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 19

Milk Party! – 9-10am. Mother to mother breastfeeding support. Certified International Lactation consultant, Julie Holcomb answers questions from establishing a first latch to child-led weaning. Breast feeding babies and toddlers welcome. No registration required. ZukaBaby, 2124 Magazine St, NOLA. Contact: 504-596-6540.

markyourcalendar

Tai Chi and Qi Gong Basics A 6 month course Winter 2011/2012 Courses begin January 2012

with long time practitioner and teacher Marilyn Yank Course cost: $250 (payment plans available)

To enroll call 504-610-3672 TheAmmaCenter.org

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20

Registration for New Years Tai Chi or Karate Classes – Start the New Year with better mind, body and spirit. Taught by Master King Lam – over 38 years experience in martial arts. Tamashii Karate & Tai Chi Center, 8132 Willow St, NOLA. For more information call 504-866-2241 or email kinglam1199@gmail.com

Happy Chanukah!

First day of Jewish Festival of Lights. (12/20-12/28)

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22

Winter Solstice – 5:30am.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25

Merry Christmas!

MONDAY, DECEMBER 26

Happy Kwanzaa

A week long African American Celebration (12/26-1/1)

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 27

House of Broel Foundation Holistic Wellness Meeting – 6:30-9pm. Potluck and network time 6:30-7pm. Speaker: Rolf vanAnders on mystical & healing aspects of yoga. House of Broel, 2220 St. Charles Ave., NOLA. Free and open to public. Contact: Bonnie Broel 504-494-2220.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28

Basics of Reflexology – 9am-4pm. (12/28 & 12/29) 2-day workshop. Learn the basics of the ancient healing system of foot reflexology. Balance and detoxify body systems; bring relaxation and client based healing. Instructor: Peggy Scott. 12 CE credits for LMTs: LaBMT & NCBTMB. For more info call Mary Catherine: 903-263-8684

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30

Ushering in Prosperity and Abundance for 2012 – (12/30-1/1) Opening the gates to abundance is an art, a gift and a process with Pat Brawley, PhD and Dolores Watson, founder of Flowering Lotus. Experience the release of blockages and the opening of opportunities. Donation based retreat. Flowering Lotus Meditation Center, Magnolia, MS. 504-905-4090.

classifieds LIST FOR RENT, ITEMS FOR SALE, HELP WANTED, OPPORTUNITIES, PRODUCTS OR SERVICES HERE. To Place a Classified Listing Email to advertising@nolahealthyliving.com. Must be received by the 10th of the month prior to publication. $1 per word. $20 minimum. Must be prepaid. BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES CURRENTLY PUBLISHING NATURAL AWAKENINGS MAGAZINES – For sale in Birmingham, AL; North Central FL; Lexington, KY; Santa Fe, NM; Cincinnati, OH; Tulsa, OK; Northeast PA; Columbia, SC; Southwest VA. Call for details 239-530-1377. FLEXIBLE HOURS, FUN BUSINESS! NYR Organic, the new social selling channel of U.K.-based Neal’s Yard Remedies, offers award-winning, luxurious organic skin care, beauty and wellbeing products and a profitable home-based business opportunity. To learn more: email nyrorganic@alaska.net or go to http://us.nyrorganic.com/shop/alaska EARN A MONTHLY INCOME by switching your internet homepage to this one. ITS FREE! http://www.viradyne.com/pdcory1089

FOR RENT - COMMERCIAL OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE – MID-CITY AND MARIGNY. Virtual, Private or Share floor space in a triple bottom-line atmosphere. Competitive/below market rent for your growing business. Full amenities including WiFi/ conference room/office equip plus value added services provided! TheBuildingBlock.com or call 504-561-7525.

PERFECT SPACE for licensed massage therapist or other quiet holistic provider. 462 sf includes large 14 x 17 treatment room, closet, office/kitchen and waiting room. $500/ mo (includes utilities) with annual lease. 3200 Lake Villa Ave, Ste 208, Metairie. 504-535-9771.

SERVICES PET SITTER – Greater N.O. area EB & WB. $15/visit includes walk & feeding. Discounts for regular business & referrals. Military base access. Pet First Aid Certified. Contact Michelle 504-298-PETS, petsitter504@ymail.com or http://504PetSitter.webs.com/

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES F L O W E R I N G L O T U S M E D I TAT I O N AND RETREAT CENTER. Be a part of the development/expansion of the only Buddhist oriented retreat center in the deep south. Only 1 1/2 hours from New Orleans, Baton Rouge and Jackson. All welcomed to our donation based retreat center. 504-905-4090 FloweringLotusMeditation.org. The Humane Society of Louisiana needs volunteers. To find out how you can help contact Jeff Dorson at 901-268-4432 or StopCruelty11@gmail.com. St. Tammany Humane Society – Help foster pets, many tasks for fundraising, help with animal socializing, many more. Call for wish list. Contact: 985-892-7387, x 106. The LatinoFarmersCoop.org An urban agriculture nonprofit committed to promote responses to food, farm and nutrition needs gardening and food pantry volunteers. Call 504-333-3611 or Info@LatinoFarmersCoop.org.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 31

Noon Years Eve at Audubon Zoo – A family celebration kids style. Featuring live music, games, prizes and a countdown with sparkling apple cider. Free to members or with Zoo admission. Audubon Zoo, 6500 Magazine St, NOLA. Info: 504-861-2537 New Years Eve in Jackson Square – A large street party beginning on Bourbon St. and spreading up and down the French Quarter. A lit ball drops at Jackson Brewery at mid-night while thousands watch. French Quarter, NOLA.

natural awakenings

December 2011

Coming in January

ongoingevents Note: All Calendar events must be received via email by December 10 for the January issue. $10/Event Calendar or Ongoing Calendar listing. $25/Upcoming Events. Free community wide events are listed for free as space is available. Email calendar@nolahealthyliving.com for guidelines and to submit entries. No phone calls please.

sunday Daily Kundalini Yoga by Donation – 9am. Kundalini yoga is the yoga of awareness. Clear the obstacles that limit life and awaken to fullest potential. Beautiful community Space. Divine Yoga, 1223 Baronne St. and 1228 O.C. Haley Blvd. Contact: info@ YogaNola.com. Beginners Yoga Class – 9:30-10:45am. Focus is on key themes of the practice and introductory poses. Assumes little or no yoga experience. Great for beginners and those needing to refresh basics. $15 drop in/$10 students. Freret Street Yoga, 4608 Freret St, NOLA. Info: 504-899-1142 or gr@ FreretStreetYoga.com

Journey to Good Health with Natural Awakenings’ Health & Wellness experts. Making natural choices supports physical and mental well-being.

Spiritual, but not religious? – 11am. If you like what Wayne Dyer and Maryann Williamson have to say, you will love Unity Church of Practical Christianity in Metairie. We encourage the transformation of your life through practical spiritual principles. 3939–2A, Veterans Blvd, Metairie (2 blocks west of Cleary, rear of building). For more info call 504-885-7575.

Vegan Brunch at Grits – 11am-3pm. Superfood Bar Chef, Amie Havens prepares a brunch menu focusing on local, seasonal and organic ingredients. Coffee and Saints game included. Every Sunday. $16.95/person. 530 Lyons St, NOLA. For more info: 504-891-7733. Transmission Meditation – 6:30pm. Want to help the world and build a stronger connection with your own spiritual nature? Transmission Meditation is the simplest way to do both at the same time says Benjamin Creme. Free. Jefferson Hwy at Clearview. For info: call Alan 504-606-8512.

monday Guided Meditation – 5-6:30pm. Strengthen your overall health as you are guided through meditation. Great for beginners and those experienced. Dec 26th—off. Uptown Holistic Center, 723 Hillary, New Orleans. Dr. Jess Tregle 504-352-6418.

For more information about advertising and how you can participate, call

504-330-2157

New Orleans

Northshore Yoga – 6 pm. Blending two practices to promote muscle-health, balance/movement, needed relaxation w/stress-free environment. Fun w/respect to levels. 1/5 hour @ $10 -mats & props provided. Yoga School, 603 South Tyler Street, Covington. Info: BrandyYoga@att.net/(985)502-7576 Candlelight Kundalini w/ Odile – 7:30-9:00pm. By donation! Come relax into the yoga of pure awareness. Expand into your self and set intention for the week. Divine Yoga Center: 1228 O.C. Haley Blvd. Contact: info@YogaNola.com

NOLANaturalAwakeningsMag.com

Basic/Beginners Aikido Classes – 7:30-8:30 pm. Practice a martial art of peace whose benefits include self-defense, flexibility, strength, balance, stress reduction, concentration, community, and fun! First class free, thereafter monthly membership $85 ($70 full-time students, seniors, military/law enforcement). NOLA Aikido, 3909 Bienville St, Ste 103 in Mid-City. More info: 504-208-4861, info@ NolaAikido.com.

tuesday Crescent City Farmers Market – 9am-1pm. Open air market with fresh locally grown fruits, vegetables, seafood, baked breads and pies, bedding plants, dairy products, freshly cut flowers. Located in the parking lot of Uptown Square. Order Vintage Garden Soups – Order by noon Tuesday for delivery on wedneday. Fresh delicious savory soups developed by our chef. Options for special diets. Visit website on ad for soups of the week and delivery/pick-up options. Call 504-620-2495. Sivananda Yoga w/ Becca Hebert – 11am-12:30pm. Tuesday and Thursday. By donation. Enjoy the beautiful new space, Divine Yoga Center , 1228 O.C. Haley Blvd. Check website in ad for more donation classes. info@YogaNola.com Eyebrow Threading – noon-5pm. Special rate of $10, normally. Esthetique Facial Spa, every week on Tuesdays Eyebrow threading is $10, 5702 Magazine St, NOLA. 504-896-1006. Hollygrove Market & Farm – noon-6pm. NOLA’s only CSA-style market selling each week assorted fresh local and organic fruit and vegetables from LA, MS & AL. 8301 Olive St, NOLA (across from Carrollton Boosters). Basic/Beginners Aikido Classes – 6:15-7:45pm. Practice a martial art of peace whose benefits include self-defense, flexibility, strength, balance, stress reduction, concentration, community, and fun! First class free, thereafter monthly membership $85 ($70 full-time students, seniors, military/law enforcement). NOLA Aikido, 3909 Bienville St, Ste 103 in Mid-City. More info: 504-208-4861, info@ NolaAikido.com. Yoga on the NorthShore – 5:30-7pm. Gentle postures, breath work, tai chi movements; beginners welcome. $10 per session or $48 for six. Yoga School, 603 S. Tyler St., Covington. Info: 985-276-8599 Awaken with TriYoga flows – 7pm. (also Sat 7am) Enjoy the deep meditative practice of relaxation-inaction with Laura Ates. Open to all. 4436 Toulouse, corner of N. Murat, Mid-City. For cost and other details contact: kds03@aol.com Insight Meditation Group – 7:30-9pm. Meditaton practice and discussion. 2134 Magazine St., 3rd fl., New Orleans. Info: noimg@me.com or call Larry at 504-343-8378.

B-boy / B-girl Jam – 7:30-9:30pm. With Monica and Jeff get your break dance on, by donation. Enjoy the beautiful new space, Divine Yoga Center, 1228 O.C. Haley Blvd. Check website in ad for more donation classes. info@YogaNola.com HypnoBirthing Childbirth Education Classes – Registration for group or private couple classes for a calm, confident and more comfortable birthing experience. 5 classes - info and registration: Bonnie Miller @Methodist Hypnotherapy Services, Slidell, 985-726-9333/118, bmiller@mhsfi.org

wednesday Covington Farmers Market – 10am-2pm. Offering fresh produce, fresh baked breads, prepared foods and plants. Located at The Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire, Covington. Guided Meditation – 10:30am-noon. Meditation is an excellent way to directly connect with your true inner self and with all divine energy to receive self-healing! Uptown Holistic Center, 723 Hillary, New Orleans. Call Dr. Jess Tregle: 504-352-6418. Mastermind Group – 2pm. Affirming spiritual support for realizing your dreams and goals. All welcome. Followed by brief meditation. Love offering welcome. Unity Church of Metairie. 3939–2A, Veterans Blvd, Metairie (2 blocks west of Cleary, rear of building). For more info call 504-885-7575. German Coast Farmers Market – West Bank – 3-6:30pm. Open-air market offering fresh produce, rotisserie & fresh meats, fresh pastries/breads, sausage, kettle corn, cracklins, prepared foods, soy candles, goat milk soap and lotions. Arts and crafts 4th Wed. Located at 12715 Highway 90, St. Charles Plaza Shopping Center, Site of the old K-mart building, Luling, LA . All Levels Hatha Yoga – 5-6:30pm. Beginners welcome and appropriate for intermediate and experienced practitioners. Asana, pranayama, mantra, mudra, maybe some Sanskrit and more. $10/class or $48/6. Yoga School, 603 S. Tyler St, Covington. Info: 985-892-4170 or jgbjoseph@bellsouth.net. Vipassana Meditation – 6-7pm. Vipassana means to see things as they truly are. Learn the simple art of self-transformation through self-observation. No experience necessary. Donations graciously appreciated. Divine Yoga 1228 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. New Orleans. Contact Clifton Beary at ClifBeary@gmail.com or 415-308-5459.

Meditation & Discussion Group – 7-8:30pm. A Vipassana (Insight) meditation group. All interested in learning to meditate are welcome. Donation based. Sponsored by Flowering Lotus Meditation and Retreat Center. Offered at The N.O. Healing Center, 2372 St. Claude Ave (corner St. Roch), 4th fl, Info: 504-905-4090 or evolved812@aol.com. Self Esteem Workshop – Fine tune your attitudes and beliefs and discover the real you while letting go of the past baggage. Info and registration: Bonnie Miller @ Methodist Hypnotherapy Services, Slidell, 985-726-9333/118, bmiller@mhsfi.org.

thursday Crescent City Farmers Market – 3-7pm. Farmers Market at 3700 Orleans Ave, American Can Co. building, New Orleans, rain or shine. Self Hypnosis Classes – All ages. For your health and happiness rediscover your most powerful resource – your mind! Take control, manage stress and make your goals a reality. 3 classes $105. Info and Registration: Bonnie Miller @ Methodist Hypnotherapy Services, Slidell, 985-726-9333/118, bmiller@mhsfi.org. Northshore Yoga Class – 6-7:30pm. Beginning to intermediate class focusing on breathe, stretching and a variety of yoga poses to strengthen muscles, achieve balance, self-awareness, and general fitness. $10/class or $48/6 classes. Yoga School, 603 S. Tyler, Covington. Joy Roussel: 985-892-5575. Basic/Beginners Aikido Classes – 6:15-7:45pm. Practice a martial art of peace whose benefits include self-defense, flexibility, strength, balance, stress reduction, concentration, community, and fun! First class free, thereafter monthly membership $85 ($70 full-time students, seniors, military/ law enforcement). NOLA Aikido, 3909 Bienville St, Ste 103 in Mid-City. More info: 504-208-4861, info@NolaAikido.com.

Camellia City Farmers Market – 8am.-1pm. Featuring yard eggs, Mediterranean foods, herbs, produce, baked goods, coffee and iced tea, local musicians, tastings and cooking demos. Griffith Park, 333 Erlanger and Second St, Olde Towne, Slidell. Info: 985-640-8291. 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 and 4th streets, Gretna. Info: 504-362-8661. Westwego Farmers & Fisheries Market – 8:30am12:30pm. Open year round, rain or shine. Free parking. Featuring fresh produce, seafood, bakery items, dairy, plants, prepared foods & handcrafted items. Plus live music & kids activities. 484 Sala Ave, corner of 4th St., Westwego. Contact 504-341-3424, x 209. Covington Farmers Market – 9am-1pm. Offering fresh produce, fresh baked breads, prepared foods and plants. Located at Covington City Hall, 609 N Columbia St., Covington.

A Course in Miracles – 6:30-8pm. Offered by Dr. Gary Arnold continuously in New Orleans since 1988. Free and open to the public. Location: Unity Church of Metairie, 3303 Richland, Ste. 2A, Metairie, LA 70002

friday All Levels Yoga – noon-1pm. Modifications and variations on sun salutations and standing poses are taught so that everyone can practice in a way that feels challenging but not overwhelming. Teacher: Tamar. $15/ drop in; $10 students. Freret Street Yoga, 4608 Freret St., New Orleans. Contact: gr@FreretStreetYoga.com or 504-899-1142.

saturday Vietnamese Farmers Market – 6-9am. Over 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. Crescent City Farmers Market – 8am-noon. Openair market with great selection of fresh locally grown fruits, vegetables, seafood, baked breads and freshly made pies, bedding plants, dairy products, fresh flowers. Cooking demos by some of the city’s most acclaimed chefs. Located at 700 Magazine, corner of Girod, New Orleans. German Coast Farmers Market - East Bank – 8am-noon. 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 2nd Sat. Ormond Plantation, 13786 River Rd., Destrehan. For info call 985-359-0190.

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. For vendor/entertainment info: Donna Beakley 985-845-4515. Beginners Yoga Class – 9:30-10:45am. Focus is on key themes of the practice and introductory poses. Assumes little or no yoga experience. Great for beginners and those needing to refresh basics. $15 drop in/$10 students. Freret Street Yoga, 4608 Freret St, NOLA. Info: 504-899-1142 or gr@FreretStreetYoga.com Hollygrove Market & Farm – 10am-2pm. NOLA’s only CSA-style market selling each week assorted fresh local and organic fruit and vegetables from LA, MS & AL. 8301 Olive St, NOLA (across from Carrollton Boosters). Sankofa Farmers Market - 10am-2pm. Weekly market in the Ninth Ward offering fresh produce, seafood, baked goods, and plants from local farmers and fishermen. 3500 St.Claude Avenue, corner of Gallier St. Friends of the New Orleans Public Library Book Sale – 10am-2pm. Lots of fiction, non-fiction, local & rare books, CDs, DVDs, videos & records plus children’s books. Help rebuild the New Orleans Public Libraries. Book donations appreciated! At the Carriage House behind the Latter Branch Library, 5120 St. Charles Ave, New Orleans Meditation Group – 2:30-3:30pm. Fairgrinds Coffee House. Sponsored by Art of Living Foundation. 3133 Ponce de Leon, New Orleans. For info contact Allen 504-247-6692.

natural awakenings

December 2011

communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide email Advertising@NOLAHealthyLiving.com to request our media kit.

ACUPUNCTURE KELLY KIVIKO, ACA

Louisiana Lic.# ACA.200012 530 E. Rutland St., Covington 985-869-3299 Acupuncture Works! It is a safe, drug-free approach to managing many common health concerns. Specializing in herbal medicine, pain, stress, women’s health, and more.

TONYA TIGART, ACA

Louisiana Lic.# ACA.200032 4710 Canal St & 3618 Magazine St 504-224-1069 AcupunctureInNOLA.com Acupuncture is gentle and effective. Tonya offers Acupuncture and Oriental medicine in a relaxing environment. She is experienced in the treatment of pain, stress and allergies, plus many more conditions. Call to schedule an appointment.

ANIMAL HOLISTIC MEDICINE JANICE E. POSEY, DVM

985-898-3623/504-466-9129 315 Lee Lane, #104 Covington, LA 70433 Offering a holistic, integrative approach to healing your beloved pet through acupuncture, herbal medicine/nutritional supplements, and food therapy. We treat the patient, not the symptoms. See ad page 36.

BODYWORK AVIVA MASSAGE & BODYWORK SPA

Linda L. Strickland, BA, CHt, RM, LMT 601 Lafitte St., Mandeville 985-727-9665 Discover the difference & feel the peace through massage/bodywork, select spa services & energy work. Integrative, intuitive, customized approach. Aromatherapy at all sessions. LA 1479;E2445. See ad page 9.

New Orleans

BODY SUGARING USA DAY SPA

Dora Ochoa, L.M.T. 1800 W. Causeway Approach., Ste. 122 Mandeville, 985-626-5538 BodySugaringUSA.com Unique, painless & permanent hair removal, specializing in Brazilian bikini lines. Home of the “Slimmer You” body wrap and cellulite massage. Instant gift certificates on our website.

HOLISTIC LIFE

4401 Veterans Blvd, Ste 200 504-885-8800 HolisticLife.us A Colonics, Wellness, Weight Loss Day Spa, Colon Hydrotherapy, massage therapy, activated oxygen sauna, ion foot bath, reflexology, integrated medicine, and other natural /spa offerings. Across from Clearview Mall in the major business area of Metairie. See ad page 17.

JOY OF LIFE! NATURAL HEALTH

Dr. Kevin Le Blanc, ND, MMP, LMT # LA2487 504-535-9771 Greater New Orleans + Pacific NW We are a result-oriented practice incorporating different modalities specific to each Client and Session. Find your Joy in Living with relief from pain and stress. Discover your Source of energy, clarity, flexibility, and vibrant health. See ad page 33.

CHIROPRACTIC/WELLNESS CHIROPRACTIC HEALTH CENTER

COOKING INSTRUCTION THE ULTIMATE KITCHEN COMMANDO

Jodi Brown 504-616-7171 UltimateKitchenCommando.com Tired of your doctor and nutritionist TELLING you what to do and wish someone would just come to your house and SHOW you how to make it all work? Here I am. I offer full-day food makeovers & healthy cooking classes. Take back your life! Feel ALIVE again.

Dr. Debbi Hannan 101 Clearview Pkwy at Airline, Metairie COUNSELING AND 504-454-2000 PSYCHOTHERAPY HannanWellness.com Experience the difference! We ANDREA SCHEELE, LCSW, LMFT total wellness care:the Chiro“Youoffer too can move away from past andAttachment towards Psychotherapy practic, a life of vitality,detoxification, wholeness and nutrition, fulfilling relationships.” 1303 Amelia St., New Orleans endermologie, DRX-9000 non- 504-899-2686 surgical spinalCouples decompression, Individual, When you experience loss, illcold&laser, EB-Cellular Family Therapy Cleansness, depression, stress or are er, Far Infra Red Sauna and the going through major life transiAttachment Psychotherapy / EMDR Ideal Protein Diet plan. See ad page 19. tions Attachment Psychotherapy Andrea Scheele, LCSW, LMFT 1303 Amelia Street will benefit you. Individual, couNew Orleans, LA 70115 COLON HYDROTHERAPY ples, family, parent/child and (504) 899-2686 small group therapy. See ad on page 10.

ALORACLEANSE

1131 S. Tyler St, Covington 985-809-3133 AloraCleanse.com Colon Hydrotherapy removes stagnant fecal matter and toxic bacteria along with cellular debris. Get relief of unhealthy digestive symptoms and achieve greater immunity, enhanced energy, clearer skin, improved mental clarity, and a general elevation in mood.

NOLANaturalAwakeningsMag.com

GINA L. ORIHUELA, LCSW-BACS, ND, CTN

Holistic Psychotherapy & Counseling 3213 Florida Ave, Ste D, Kenner 504-466-2266 Psychotherapist and Naturopath. A unique holistic approach to assist you in coping with loss, illness, stress, depression, or other life transitions. Individual, family and/or group therapy clients. Children, adolescents, and adults. See ad page 34.

MIKE ROBICHAUX, DDS

1101 Robert Blvd, Ste A, Slidell, LA 70458 985-641-8058 MikeRobichauxDDS.com Offering a holistic and patientcentered approach to dentistry, because we believe the health of the mouth and overall health cannot be separated. We help those we serve make decisions that are in their best interests, based on their values and goals, by providing state of the art information within a trusting relationship. See ad page 16.

DYNAMIC MEDITATION JUSTINE A.MIS

Certified Silva Method Instructor & Life Coach SilvaMethodSeminars.com 340-690-6900 World’s premiere mind development and self-improvement program. Practical techniques for managing stress, health, creative problem solving. Learn Dynamic Meditation and Cognitive Control to create remarkable changes in your life. Classes and personal life coach services.

FreeENERGY PSYCHOLOGY

f PSYCH-K

the gentle process MARYLOU SMITH memories, Advanced PSYCH-K Facilitator Support504-723-2899 what is our life’sMarylouSmith.com purpose.

mith

ilitator ssions

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HYPERBARIC OXYGEN THERAPY

DENTIST

Engage the power of mind to create rapid change and experience the life you choose. The process of PSYCH-K® is a simple & effective way to release the past and consciously design your present and future. See ad on page 27.

FENG SHUI JOAN MARSHALL, M.Ed.

504-812-8676 joan@fengshuinola.com FengShuiNoLa.com Eco-therapy for you and your environment. Holistic health counseling and feng shui consultations for individuals and businesses throughout GNO. Specialities include design consulting, career counseling, and stress management. Design your space - Design your life.

HARCH HYPERBARICS/ FAMILY PHYSCIANS CENTER

LIVE, LOVE AND FENG SHUI

Eveline Hoffmann Feng Shui practitioner 504-861-3370 boehlen747@gmail.com Offering Feng shui consultations for homes and businesses Find balance and serenity within your home .Make intentional changes in your dwellings and you will alter your life in positive wide ranging ways. Your environment will begin to assist you and you will uncover solutions to your day to day issues and life will improve. See ad page 26.

HOLISTIC/ENERGY HEALING CENTER FOR ENLIGHTENED TRANSFORMATION

Cindy B. Daigle 504-931-6494 North shore and New Orleans area cindy@outlookdesign.com Cindy utilizes powerful energetic healing methods to shift and balance the auric field, chakras and the cells of our body. Health, Joy, and Balance within, attracts the same externally. See ad on page 27.

KATHLEEN A. BURKE

Energy Practitioner 504-931-9895 lighthousekebr@yahoo.com A Skilled practitioner in holistic wellness since 1988. Empower your own Well-Being with Advanced Energy Work. Special packaged offer: Stress-Relief Movement, Advanced Energy Work session and essential oils to enhance your individualized session.

5216 Lapalco Blvd. Marrero, LA 70072 504-309-4948 juliette@hbot.com HBOT.com HBOT(R), oxygen under pressure acts as a drug. Oxygen is the cleanest medicine in the world. Noninvasive & painless treatment for wounds, TBI, autism, stroke, ADHD, dementia, multiple sclerosis and many other neurological disorders. See ad page 21.

HYPNOTHERAPY HYPNOHEALS

Mariah Sinclair, CCHt 504-302-0131 HypnoHeals.com NolaBlissBorn.com Using compassion, intuition and the tool of hypnosis, Mariah changes clients’ lives. Specializing in: Post divorce/break-up healing, changing habits, alleviating physical ailments, birth hypnosis, reducing stress, increasing spiritual connection. Individual and group sessions available.

METHODIST HYPNOTHERAPY SERVICES Bonnie Miller, Clinical Director 985-726-9333 ext 118 bmiller@mhsfi.org MHSFI.org Hypnosis is not magic…it is a powerful tool to transform your life, heal your body, empower your mind, and revive your spirit. Stress, Pain, Anxiety, Fear, Birthing, Forensic, PLR, IBS, FMS, Habits, Disorders, Motivation, etc. You must take the first step towards your good health and happiness. Individual, Group and Corporate Wellness Programs. Hypnosis Works!

POWER PATH METHOD

Mike Wittenbrink, MBA, C.Ht. 504-339-0594 Help44@gmail.com PowerPath.org Problems? This is the most powerful process for Transformation. Release your pain and psychological blocks. Find the path to your power – for peak performance. Learn to heal yourself and create the life you were meant to live. Improvement guaranteed. See our web page. 25 years of experience. Reasonable fees.

INSURANCE COMBINED INSURANCE

Mark Correa, Agent 504-908-3200 Supplemental Insurance: Accident, Disability, Life, Health.

natural awakenings

December 2011

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE IRENE SEBASTIAN, M.D., Ph.D

401 Veterans Blvd, Suite 203 Metairie, LA 70005 504-838-9804 IreneSebastianMD.com Offering a holistic approach to healthcare: Integrative Medicine, Homeopathy, Functional Medicine, Herbal Therapy, and Nutrition. See ad page 41.

DR. KATHLEEN POSEY, M.D.

377 Hwy 21, Ste 101, Madisonville 985-845-4111 KathleenPoseyMD.com Our mission is to improve health and reverse chronic disease through hormonal and energetic balancing and nutrition. A practice of preventive medicine and wellness with a holistic approach to women’s gynecological and overall health. We offer a healthy medically supervised weight loss program. See ad on page 31.

INTEGRATIVE PSYCHIATRY JOSÉ CALDERÓN-ABBO, M.D.

3439 Magazine Street New Orleans, LA 70115 504-891-8808 MindfulPsychiatry.com Integrating biomedicine, psychotherapy, and mind-body medicine including mindfulness stress reduction to treat psychiatric conditions, addictions, and to promote wellness. Mindful Psychiatry offers: Individual and group psychotherapy; medication management, including Subuxone; Wellness and Stress Reduction groups through the Mindful Living Program©, corporate wellness consultations, and educational and professional training workshops. English and Spanish. See ad page 13.

MARTIAL ARTS TAI CHI-QI GONG

Shifu King Lam 8132 Willow St, Uptown 504-866-2241 KingLam1131@yahoo.com Asian Arts to improve health, fitness, personal safety, rejuvenate energy. Achieve a better mind, body and spirit. Serving New Orleans community for 35 years. KingLamtaichi-karate.com. See ad page 11 and calendar for classes.

MASSAGE SCHOOLS BLUE CLIFF COLLEGE

Clearview Mall Metairie, LA. 70006 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!

DELTA COLLEGE

Slidell and Covington Campuses 985-892-6651 DeltaCollege.com We offer the finest of career training for in-demand careers, including therapeutic massage, dental assistant, practical nursing (LPN), medical assistant, and medical office assistant. Also job placement assistance, and certification opportunities in many majors. See ad on page 17.

Certified Professional Life Coach Corporate & Life Coaching Services 7121 Walmsley Ave, Ste D, NOLA 70125 504-259-7726 Charly@CrescentCityCoach.com CrescentCityCoach.com Elite athletes and executives have coaches. Imagine how much more productive and fulfilling your life would be if you had your own Life Coach. You don’t have to imagine anymore, contact Charly today. 46

New Orleans

ZUKABABY

2124 Magazine St., NOLA 504-596-6540 ZukaBaby.com ZukaBaby is a new shop specializing in cloth diapering, babywearing and handmade children’s items. Cloth diapering classes every Saturday. See calendar for other events. See ad page 18.

NATUROPATHIC DOCTOR DR. LISA MARIE CHAMBERS, ND

Northshore Office 1305 West Causeway Approach Mandeville, 70471 985-624-2295 Accurate Clinic 2401 Vets Blvd, Ste 16, Kenner 504-472-6130 DrLisaMarieChambers.com Dr. Chambers works in partnership with her patients to discover, understand and address the root cause of their illness. By treating the whole person, she also offers preventive care before serious illness occurs.

NEUROFEEDBACK BRAIN WORKS ACADEMY

Cheryl Schoenberger, RRT 985-809-7077 BrainWorks.us Neurofeedback is a safe, non-drug therapy that gently balances the brainwaves by exercising the neural pathways. If you’ve been diagnosed with ADD/ADHD, autism, depression, or other disorders, please contact us for a free consultation. See ad on page 10.

NUTRITIONIST

LIFE COACH CHARLY BORENSTEIN-REGUEIRA

NATURAL BABY & CHILD

MINISTRY/SPIRITUALITY UNITY CHURCH OF METAIRIE

3939-2A Veterans Blvd, Metairie 504-885-7575 Daily Prayer Line 504-885-7056 Breaking boundaries through transformative thought. A Christian church celebrating the Love of Spirit while honoring all paths. (2 blocks off Cleary, entrance/parking in rear of bldg). Sunday service 11am.

NOLANaturalAwakeningsMag.com

DANIELLE PACIERA, LDN, RD, CCN

5002 Prytania St., New Orleans 70115 504-889-8771 Danielle@365Vitality.com Cutting edge holistic nutrition services. Specializing in complementary and alternative medicine, therapeutic uses of foods, supplementation, vegetarian nutrition, women’s health, sports performance, eating disorders, depression, addiction, and more. See ad page 24.

REIKI

YOGA

ELIZABETH OHMER PELLEGRIN, R.M.T.

OXYGEN THERAPY CHI MACHINE

Joffrion Mitts, M. ED. Alternative Health Consultant 504-897-9670 ChiMachineForYourHealth.com Stress, poor circulation, headaches, back pain, insomnia, depression, stroke, asthma, weight loss? You name it! Oxygen heals! Free one week inhome trial!

REALTOR CHERYL GAUTIER, REALTOR, GREEN

Dorian Bennett Sotheby’s Int. Realty 2340 Dauphine St, NOLA 70117 (c) 504-638-7441 (o) 504-944-3605 cheryl.gautier@sothebysrealty.com Upbeat creative problem solver with an easy going New Orleanian style helping individuals to find their dream home!

DARLENE WAPEGAN CALDWELL BANKER TEC

3938 Magazine St., NOLA 70115 504-899-4040 (o) 504-258-0294 (c) I especially love my career as a realtor and thoroughly enjoy helping clients buy or sell a piece of America. My specialty is residential real estate, and in particular, working with buyers purchasing residential property.

Reiki Master Teacher & Practitioner 504-388-2356 NOLAReiki@gmail.com NOLAReiki.com Offering 21 years experience in Usui Shiki Ryoho, upholding the highest standards in Reiki classes and Reiki sessions. Practitioner and Teacher of Australian Bush Flower Essence. Also providing Astra-Lite massage & Reiki tables – lightweight and easy to transport. See ad page 19 and calendar for classes.

TIANNE D. LASTRA

Usui, Karuna & Rainbow Reiki Master 504-909-3723 AmazingReiki.com Certified & experienced Master Teacher offering sessions & classes to the Greater N.O. Area. Healing Touch, Pranic Healing, Crystal Healing, Reiki Drumming and Animal Reiki practitioner. Visit our website for full information. See ad page 38.

Reconnective Healing® & The Reconnection™ 504-352-6418 ReconnectingLife.com Healing takes place physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually! Become reconnected with your true inner self and with your true purpose in life! Strengthen your sense of unity with yourself, others, the earth, and the universe!

1223 Baronne St. Kundalini@YogaNOLA.com YogaNOLA.com Kundalini Yoga is considered to be the most comprehensive of yogas, combining meditation, physical practice and breathing exercises. All levels of experience are welcome to all classes. See ad page 29 and calendar for events/classes.

WILD LOTUS YOGA

4842 Perrier St. New Orleans, LA 70115 504-899-0047 WildLotusYoga.com Gambit’s ”Best Place to Take a Yoga Class” eight years in a row. Over 40 ongoing classes per week for beginners and experienced taught by skilled teachers in a peaceful, positive atmosphere. Offering courses, workshops, retreats and concerts. See ad page 29 and calendar for events/classes.

RETREAT CENTER DOLORES WATSON

621 Opelousas Avenue NOLA 70114 504-905-4090 evolved812@aol.com FloweringLotusMeditation.org Elegant, yet affordable retreat 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 page 27 and ongoing calendar.

RECONNECTIVE HEALING® DR. JESS TREGLE

DIVINE YOGA

SOLAR

YOGA TEACHER TRAINING YOGA SCHOOL, L.L.C.

603 S. Tyler St., Covington, LA 70433 985-893-8834 YogaSchoolCovingtonLA.com Offering Yoga Alliance registered teacher training with certification at the 200 hour and 500 hour levels. Also a state licensed Yoga Therapy training program. Visit website for more information. See Ad page 29.

YOGA THERAPY

SOUTH COAST SOLAR, LLC

2605 Ridgelake Dr. Metairie, LA 70002 504-529-SUN9 SouthCoastSolar.com 100% locally owned and operated, South Coast Solar is Louisiana’s largest solar energy company. Call or visit our website to set up a free estimate. See ad page 20.

AMY ARCHINAL, RYT, PRYT

Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy 504-899-6167 NewOrleansYogaTherapy.com Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy combines meditation, assisted yoga postures, breathwork and client-centered dialogue to promote self-awareness. Discover the wisdom of your body. See ad page 29.

natural awakenings

December 2011

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