Natural Awakenings Mercer, NJ December 2014 by Natural Awakenings Mercer

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Experience is the Key to Success with Regenerative Medicine such as Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) and Stem Cell Grafts!

endon, ligament and joint injuries can affect your daily and recreational activities. Living with pain is not the answer. Dr. Magaziner is a pioneer in the field of Regenerative Orthopedic Medicine using Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) and Stem Cell Grafts since 2001.It is commonly known in the field that he was the first known physician in the United States to use these treatments for arthritis and joint pain. He has lectured extensively and has taught others on this groundbreaking technique. He is well known around the country in his field and is considered by many as one of the top treating pain management physicians in the New Jersey region. PRP and Stem Cell treatments have grown increasingly common in the sports medicine world in recent years. Many physicians are taking weekend seminars to learn how to do these procedures however, experience and knowledge is the key to success and safety with regenerative medicine treatments. During a PRP procedure, the patient’s blood is drawn and put in a centrifuge to separate out platelet-containing plasma from the red blood cells. The plasma is then injected back into the patient’s injury. PRP treatment is thought to accelerate and/or maximize the signals an injury site sends to the body in order to continue the healing process. Adult stem cells are collected from bone marrow or from fat and are able to grow and become a cell for repair of a specific tissue or organ, according to the National Institutes of Health. The benefits of these bio-regenerative treatments: Treatment of tendon and ligament injuries without surgery. Effective relief of joint pain caused by arthritis. Safe Procedure with no serious sideeffects. Tissue regeneration using your own blood platelets and stem cells.

Conditions commonly treated: • Rotator Cuff Tears • Epicondylitis Elbow • Tendinitis Hip • Achilles Tendinitis • Arthritis Shoulder • Arthritis Knee • Meniscal Tears • Shoulder Capsule Tear • Tendinitis Wrist • Patellar Tendinitis • Plantar Fasciitis • Arthritis Hip • Arthritis Wrist/Ankle • Almost Anywhere We do not claim these treatments work for any listed or unlisted condition intended or implied.

Case Studies 63 year old male with bilateral knee arthritis not improved with NSAIDS, cortisone injections and physical therapy. The orthopedist told him he needed knee replacements. He could not walk any significant distance and had trouble getting up from a chair. After 6 monthly PRP treatments he had no pain, was walking long distances ,and up stairs without difficulty. 35 year old female musician with twoyear history of elbow pain. She had multiple cortisone injections and physical therapy with no relief. Her pain was rated 10 out of 10. She was treated with monthly PRP injections. After 3 treatments she was 80% improved. By 5 treatments she was 90% improved and her pain rating was 2 out of 10. She resumed playing guitar, and doing repetitive activities.

Testimonials Jeff C. reported osteoarthritis of his right first toe and right wrist were treated with 2-3 PRP sessions. Results: Patient reported wrist and toe pain essentially gone. Walter W, a 78-year-old man with osteoarthritis of the right knee, had a history of knee surgery and a meniscus tear. His pain was rated 6-7 out of 10, and it was hard to A D V E R T O R I A L

walk long distances or on uneven surfaces. He received seven (7) monthly PRP treatments. Results: His pain level was down to 0-1/10 and he was able to do all activities. He receives a booster treatment 1x per year. Kimberly S., a 39-year-old women with two children had had pelvic and groin pain for 3 yrs. Formerly a cheerleader who did yoga and was a sports enthusiast, her X-rays were positive for sclerosis. Had cortisone injection with only 2 weeks of relief. She received 4 PRP treatments. Results: Her pain reduced from 8 out of 10 to 2 out of 10 and treatment continues to improve her condition. Cynthia S., a 41-year-old who was involved in a motor vehicle accident which dislocated her thumb and wrist. She had positive MRI findings and functionally the patient could not use her wrist or thumb to carry or grasp due to pain. Results: Cynthia had 7 Prolotherapy treatments to wrist and thumb and she was improved 60-70%. When we changed to PRP she experienced 90% improvement in pain and function after 5 more sessions. She felt the improvement was excellent. “You gave me my hand back.” Dr. Magaziner’s credentials include: Director Center for Spine Sports Pain Management and Regenerative Medicine Assistant Professor New York Medical College Clinical Professor Robert Wood Johnson University Dept. of Anesthesiology Past CEO NJ Interventional Pain Society Past President New Jersey Society of Rehabilitation Medicine Middlesex County Medical Society Executive Board Member Past delegate to NJ Medical Society and advisor to the NJ Medicare Committee

20 years experience in Orthopedic Regenerative Treatments The Center for Spine, Sports, Pain Management and Orthopedic Regenerative Medicine is located at 2186 Route 27, Suite 2 D, North Brunswick, NJ. For information please visit DrEMagaziner. com or call 877-817-3273.

contents 8 6 newsbriefs 7 kudos 8 healthbriefs 10 globalbriefs 13 ecotip 14 community 10 spotlight 20 naturalpet 22 greenliving 24 consciouseating 26 fitbody 13 28 healthykids 32 wisewords 37 calendar 40 resourceguide

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

14 PRINCETON WINE AFICIONADO

Pours Out Tips by Iris Bleu

16 SACRED ACTIVISM Love in Action Can Change the World by Judith Fertig

20 PET BED-BUDDIES

Is Sleeping Together Healthy?

by Erik J. Martin

22 TOXIN-FREE

BEAUTY SALONS Pure Pampering Feels Natural and Safe by Sarah Tarver-Wahlquist

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24 HAPPY FEASTING TO ALL

HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 609-249-9044 or email Publisher@NAMercer.com. Deadline for ads: the 10th of the month. EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: Publisher@NAMercer.com. Deadline for editorial: the 10th of the month.

Tasty Rituals that Deepen the Holiday Spirit by Lane Vail

26 FIND YOUR

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28 CAN-DO KIDS

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30 AWAKENING HUMANITY

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34 THE UNIVERSAL

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letterfrompublisher Dear Santa,

ou probably don’t hear from magazine publishers very often, as we are usually juggling a zillion things while trying to be five places at the same time. But we wanted to give you our wish list and share some holiday tips as well. We must admit, an iPad Air 2 would be a really cool “thing” gift this year, but that can wait. Instead, we share with you our heartfelt wishes and dreams for true and real gifts. They may be grandiose, but we believe they are part of the spirit that can be carried within us all as we move into 2015. sThat as human beings, we may begin to truly value all people on this Earth and honor everyone daily with simple dignity, respect and hope for the future–and teach our children these ways by example. sThat as citizens of this country and of the world, we can put our political and ideological differences aside and work toward lasting economic, spiritual and social healing. sThat as keepers of the Earth, we may awaken to the realization that every action or inaction has an effect on seven generations ahead, and consciously work toward a healthier and sustainable environment for all creatures. sAnd that as part of the grand web of life, we may more fully honor and respect the beauty in all things and give thanks daily for this wonderful planet Earth that we call our home. It gives us chills to think of the possibilities if these wishes start to manifest, even in a tiny way. Imagine the snowball effect if everyone were to make a small daily effort in these areas! Santa, we’ve also left you a few copies of December’s issue of Natural Awakenings to enjoy with your almond milk and organic cookies. Please give a copy to Mrs. Claus, as we know she’ll enjoy our Conscious Eating section, which includes tasty rituals to deepen the holiday spirit. Pass your copy along to the elves in your North Pole workshop. We think they’ll want to read our main articles about how hands uplift hearts, as well as love in action can change the world. And Rudolf and the boys should enjoy the Natural Pet article about pet bed-buddies. Oh, and Santa, just a thought after all those cookies—please check out the article in our Fit Body section about workouts that suit your personality. One final thought for you, Santa. If while making your rounds this year, you find you’re missing a few gifts for all the good girls and boys, please be sure to visit our Natural Awakenings advertisers and distributors. They’ll help you find the perfect gift for everyone on your list. We wish you a peaceful and magical holiday season, and a world of happiness in 2012! Lori Beveridge Owner/Publisher

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newsbriefs PEAC Hosts Toys for Tots Collection

609-235-9030 Solutions for Healthy Living

Silence is a true friend who never betrays.

rom now through December 12, PEAC Health & Fitness, in Ewing, will be a collection site for the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program. Anyone is welcome to drop off new, unwrapped toys, which will be distributed at Christmas to local, underprivileged children. PEAC’s collection is in conjunction with Battery G 3rd Battalion 14th Marines, located in Ft. Dix, New Jersey. Michael Briehler, president of PEAC Health & Fitness, states, “We are always glad to support the Toys for Tots program. It’s a nice way for us to reach out to needy families in our community at a special time of year.” According to the U.S. Marine Corps, “The primary goal of Toys for Tots is to deliver, through a new toy at Christmas, a message of hope to less fortunate youngsters that will assist them in becoming responsible, productive, patriotic citizens.” Toys for Tots campaigns are typically held in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Location: 1440 Lower Ferry Rd., Ewing. For more information about Toys for Tots, visit ToysForTots.org. For more information about PEAC’s collection, contact Christine Tentilucci at 609-883-2000, email CTentilucci@PEACHealthFitness.com or visit PEACHealthFitness.com.

~Confucius

Christmas at the Howell Farm

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t. Nick, his elves and a jingling sleigh loaded with cookies, coal and holiday cheer will arrive at Howell Living History Farm highlighting an all-day Christmas on the Farm program on December 6 in Lambertville. St. Nick’s sleigh will descend from the farm’s northern slopes at noon. Its white-bearded navigator will check Christmas lists and give out treats (or coal, as the case may be). The celebration begins when children can climb aboard a horse-drawn work wagon for a ride to the woods to cut down a Christmas tree. All children will be given a chance to take a turn helping farmers cut the tree along with a two-man saw team. Afterwards, all visitors can help decorate the tree with ear corn, pinecones and other natural ornaments. Helpers will be treated to hot apple cider and cookies. Gift baskets, sleigh bells, wreaths and other items will be available for sale in the visitor center gift shop. Featured will be handmade gifts and ornaments crafted by the Pleasant Valley Stitchers. Howell Farm is also an official drop-off site for Toys for Tots. Share the gift of giving by bringing an unwrapped toy to the farm. Free admission and parking. Cost for completing wooden angel craft: $3. Location: 70 Wooden’s Lane, Lambertville. For more information, call 609-737-3299 or visit HowellFarm.org.

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Festival of Trees in Princeton

ring the whole family to the Morven Museum, in Princeton, for its annual Festival of Trees, which has become a Princeton holiday tradition from now through January 4. The museum’s 13 galleries are beautifully and elegantly decorated for the holidays. The galleries will be filled with trees festooned with lovely holiday decorations by local businesses, garden clubs and nonprofit organizations. The 2014 display will include exhibitors from Art Council for Princeton, The Farmhouse Store, D&R Greenway Land Trust, Barbara L. Mulea, McCarter Theatre Center, Keris Tree Farm, the Christmas Shop and many more. The Festival of Trees is open to the public during normal museum operating hours and no reservations are required. Location: 55 Stockton St., Princeton. For more information, call 609-924-8144 or visit Morven.org.

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ay Smalley of Blue Ridge Mountain Sports, of Princeton, recently presented a donation of $2,173 to Linda Mead, president & CEO of D&R Greenway Land Trust. She is joined by Alan Hershey of New Jersey Trails Association. Blue Ridge Mountain’s donation represents proceeds from the 2014 Banff Mountain Film Festival, held annually at Princeton University. Blue Ridge Mountain Sports designates D&R Greenway Land Trust as its selected nonprofit, generously supporting the work it does in preserving land and creating trails for the hiking public. Blue Ridge Mountain Sports is located at 301 N. Harrison St., Princeton. For more information, call 609-921-6078 or visit BRMS.com. Hours: Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sun., noon to 5 p.m.

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December 2014

healthbriefs

Calcium Supplements Raise Risk of Brain Lesions

Duke University study published in the British Journal of Nutrition this summer found that calcium supplements taken by elderly persons may increase the risk of brain lesions that are identified as hyperintensities on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain scans. The researchers studied 227 adults over the age of 60. The patients were assessed for supplemental calcium intake and received brain scans via MRI. Those taking calcium supplements had more lesions of a volume typically associated with hypertension. They noted no dose-dependent relationship between lesion size and the amount of calcium being supplemented. The scientists commented that other studies have found calcium supplementation also associated with greater risk of artery disease. Hyperintensities are observed in normal aging, plus several neurological, psychiatric and autoimmune disorders that affect the brain. They constitute damage to brain tissue caused by restricted blood flow and have been linked to mild cognitive deficits and disturbances.

Hip Fractures Decrease on Weekends and Holy Days

new study published in the Israel Medical Association Journal found that older adults are more likely to have hip fractures in the wintertime, except during weekends and on religious holidays. The study’s authors checked the records of 2,050 patients that were at least 65 years old and had suffered a hip fracture. Analyzing the dates of each fracture revealed that significantly more of them occurred during the wintertime; the injuries corresponded directly with lower temperatures and greater rainfall. Fewer fractures took place on the Sabbath and during weekends in general, as well as on Yom Kippur and other holy days, with the exception of Passover.

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CELL PHONE MICROWAVES STRESS PLANTS

vidence of the effects of wireless technologies on human health continues to be controversial, with agreement on results remaining elusive. Now a new study published in the Journal of Plant Physiology found that human-generated microwave pollution can potentially be stressful to plants. Researchers from Romania’s Estonian University of Life Sciences tested three common garden plants—parsley, celery and dill weed. They exposed each to the types of microwave radiation equivalent to those produced by cell phones and wireless routers. Then these radiation-exposed plants were compared with identical plants not exposed to the radiation. The scientists noted that the irradiated plants had thinner cell walls; smaller chloroplasts (cellular sites of photosynthesis); smaller cell mitochondria (centers of energy production); and greater emission of volatile compounds, particularly monoterpenes and green leaf volatiles, which are protective, life-promoting components of the plants’ essential oils. The effects were stronger for the type of radiation produced by wireless routers. While essential oil production overall was increased by the frequency of the microwaves produced by cell phones, it was decreased by the frequency emitted by the routers.

If you haven’t got any charity in your heart, you have the worst kind of heart trouble. ~Bob Hope

Mistletoe Extract Benefits Pancreatic Cancer Patients

Hospice Care Adds Months for Cancer Patients

esearchers from Houston’s MD Anderson Cancer Center determined that hospice care significantly increases survival rates among patients with metastatic (stage IV) melanoma, a difficult-to-treat form of cancer that occurs when melanoma cells have spread through the lymph nodes to other parts of the body. The study’s authors followed 862 metastatic melanoma cancer patients. Of these, 523 patients received one to three days of hospice care, 114 patients received four or more days and 225 people received no hospice care through their survival period. Those that received four or more days had an average survival period, which typically dates from the original diagnosis, of 10.2 months, while those that received none averaged 6.1 months. In addition, the end-of-life hospital costs for those receiving the most hospice visits were nearly half of what was incurred by patients not receiving hospice attention.

study published in the European Journal of Cancer revealed that a mistletoe extract may lengthen life for patients with severe pancreatic cancer. German researchers tested 220 patients with advanced stage pancreatic cancer, an aggressive, often fatal disease. The patients were divided into two groups; one was given up to 10 milligrams of Viscum album (European mistletoe) three times a week for up to 12 months. Both groups received supportive care throughout the study period. The average length of survival for those taking the mistletoe extract, 4.8 months, was nearly twice that of the other group, 2.7 months; a survival period typically dates from the original diagnosis. Within a group considered to have a good prognosis, the survival period for those that consumed the extract, averaging 6.6 months, was more than double that of the no-extract group, which averaged 3.2 months.

Knotweed and Hawthorn Outperform Lovastatin in Trial

hinese researchers recently discovered that two herbal extracts may treat atherosclerosis, the hardening of the arteries, as well as or more effectively than the pharmaceutical drug Lovastatin. Sixty-four patients with atherosclerosis of the carotid artery were studied. For six months, half the patients received 20 milligrams of Lovastatin per day, while the other half took an herbal extract combination of Japanese knotweed and hawthorn. After six months, tests showed artery plaque thickness and inflammation were significantly lessened among both groups. However, the herbal extract-treated group showed a greater reduction of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels, a marker of risk for cardiovascular disease. Relatively high levels of hs-CRP in otherwise healthy individuals are predictive of heart health crises even when cholesterol levels are within an acceptable range. People with lower values have less of a risk.

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

Do you have a special event in the community? Open a new office? Move? Recently become certified in a new modality?

Bye-Bye Birdie

230 Avian Species on the National Watch List Scientists from 23 organizations, including the federal government, universities and conservation groups, have spent years on the State of the Birds Study, looking at 230 species of birds from different habitats compiling its watch list. Peter Marra, a migratory bird specialist at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Zoo, in Washington, D.C., attributes the population drops of the birds in the most trouble to disappearing habitat or reduced range. Some coastal birds are doing better, and previously endangered wetland birds are recovering due to laws that are protecting them. Marra says, “These populations come back when we create the habitat. The report emphasizes that it’s better to focus on birds that aren’t yet in decline and keep them that way.” Ken Rosenberg, a bird biologist at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, in Ithaca, New York, and an author of the report, says that hunters, as well as conservationists, deserve credit for preserving ducks. He acknowledges, “We’ve put a tremendous amount of resources and money into wetland and waterfowl conservation because of the hunters that contribute financially.” But lots of songbirds are in trouble, and Florida, where bird habitat is disappearing fast, is a crucial stopover for migrating birds. It’s the kind of place that birds both common and endangered urgently need to survive. Source: National Public Radio

Cultural Roots

Status of Religious Diversity in the U.S.

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The United States is often described as a religiously free and diverse country, but a new Pew Research Center study reveals that 95 percent of the populace identifies itself as either Christian or unaffiliated (atheist, agnostic or having no particular religion). This ranks the U.S. 68 out of 232 countries and territories in the Pew Religious Diversity Index. Singapore is the world’s most religiously diverse country, followed by Taiwan and Vietnam. The study treats Christian denominations as members of the same religion, which if counted separately, would increase the ranking. But Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and Judaism all have internal diversity, as well, and are considered as single religions in the study. There’s an important distinction between religious diversity and religious freedom, which the report does not measure. The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees the right to free exercise of religion, which is not always the case in other countries. Source: PewResearch.org

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Planet Power

Scientists May Harvest Energy from Earth’s Infrared Emissions Physicists at the Harvard School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) are developing a device described in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences that would harvest energy from Earth’s infrared emissions into outer space. The power is modest, but tangible. Steven J. Byrnes, a postdoctoral fellow at SEAS, points out, “The device could be coupled with a solar cell, for example, to obtain extra power at night without extra installation costs.” Heated by the sun, our planet is very warm compared to the frigid depths of space. Thanks to recent technological advances such as plasmonics and nanofabrication, and new materials like graphene, the researchers say this heat imbalance could soon be transformed into direct current (DC) power, taking advantage of an untapped, virtually limitless energy source. Source: ScienceDaily.com

Green Envy

Don’t Be So Quick to Bash the Rich A survey at social research site Queendom.com reveals that stereotypes of the richest class of society as being uniformly selfish individuals are not entirely accurate. It seems that having money does not necessarily mean that a person has an overactive ego. Actor Will Smith, with an estimated net worth of $200 million, observes, “Money and success don’t change people; they merely amplify what is already there.” Queendom data shows a difference of only a few percentage points between respondents of varying income levels in matters of altruism such as doing and returning favors, putting themselves in others’ shoes, sympathy and empathy. The area where those in a higher socioeconomic status rank at the top is in charitable contributions. Ilona Jerabek, president of parent company PsychTests AIM, says, “Our personality impacts every aspect of our life—the choices we make, the people we surround ourselves with, the career we pursue, the way we respond to life experiences, the way we manage our finances and whether or not we share our good fortune.” Take the survey at Tinyurl.com/AltruismTest.

Feeding Hope

Recognizing Restaurants that Support the Homeless Food Recovery Certified is a new program that rewards restaurants that donate their extra food to those in need with a sticker on their front door. It’s a project of The Food Recovery Network, a national system of college students that takes cafeteria leftovers to homeless people. Founder Ben Simon started the group in 2011 at the University of Maryland, and the network has saved more than 320,000 pounds of food from the dump in its first three years. If a restaurant donates unsold food to the hungry at least once a month, it can apply for the certification. Then Food Recovery Certified verifies with local nonprofits that the donations actually occur before awarding its approval. Simon states, “Every food business should be donating its extra food.” For more information, visit FoodRecoveryCertified.org. natural awakenings

December 2014

globalbriefs Youth Activists

World Peace Caravan to Travel in the Middle East in 2015

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The World Peace Caravan, founded by the nonprofit D. Gary Young Foundation, is a global peace movement scheduled to conduct a 12-day camel caravan from Petra, Jordan, to Jerusalem, Israel, from December 15 to 26, 2015. It will be spearheaded by a delegation of 12 youth ambassadors, ages 16 to 24, selected from a worldwide pool of candidates. Their goal is to foster an online youth community to provide young people everywhere a platform to share ideas, voice opinions and educate and learn from their peers. The youths intend to collaborate on solutions-centered projects to help eradicate poverty and hunger, ensure environmental sustainability and attain healthy lives for all. Inspired by a recurring vision, D. Gary Young, CEO of Young Living Essential Oils, chose the ancient Frankincense Trail upon which the Queen of Sheba once journeyed to bring peace offerings to King Solomon. This modern-day journey for peace invites people of all cultures, faiths and backgrounds to retrace the steps of that pioneering peace movement, culminating in a blockbuster World Peace Caravan Concert for Peace in Jerusalem. For more information, visit WorldPeaceCaravan.org.

Bamboo Bamboozle

‘Green’ Clothing Made with Toxic Chemicals Bamboo is rapidly renewable and requires few pesticides to grow. However, bamboo fabric manufacturing is a chemically intensive process that doesn’t provide clear and legitimate product labeling. Misleadingly using the terms eco-friendly and green becomes greenwashing when applied to items such as bamboo clothing. As the Fair Trade Commission describes the overall process, “Most bamboo textile products, if not all, are actually rayon, which typically is made using environmentally toxic chemicals. While different plants, including bamboo, can be used as a source material to create rayon, there’s no trace of the original plant in the finished rayon product.” This example points out the public vigilance required to secure more sustainable, environmentally friendly products. Third-party verification of all claims is recommended. Products made of the bamboo stalk itself, such as poles for furniture or planks for flooring, remain true to their naturally sustainable source. Source: Tinyurl.com/OrganicBambooFraud

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ecotip Tweet Treats

Trim a Tree, Feed the Birds

From December 14 through January 5, citizen scientists of all ages will participate in the National Audubon Society’s Christmas Bird Count (Tinyurl.com/AudubonChristmas Count), the country’s longest-running wildlife census. Audubon and other organizations use the data collected by volunteers to monitor population trends and guide conservation efforts. Whether or not families plan to help Audubon volunteers keep track of feathered visitors, they might consider providing backyard birds with gifts of food during the winter, when natural food sources can be scarce. Adorning outdoor trees with edible decorations can also help brighten landscapes, reduce kitchen scraps, creatively involve children in nature and make yards more bird-friendly. Salvage citrus rinds for feeders. Poke holes along the edge of hollowed halves of grapefruit and orange peels and run twine through them so they can hang from a branch. Fill with bird seed or suet. Create ornaments from bread heels or stale loaves. After cutting out shapes with a cookie cutter, spread them with unsalted nut butter and cover with birdseed. Bagels, rice cakes and pinecones can be frosted and sprinkled in the same way. Avoid using anything moldy. For more colorful ornaments, hang orange and apple slices. Drape edible garland around tree branches. Thread unsalted popcorn (stale popcorn strings more easily), fresh cranberries, citrus slices, unshelled peanuts, dried apples or grapes into a garland. Use natural string, wool or raffia for hanging decorations. Wild Birds Unlimited suggests selecting these materials so they can be used by birds as nesting materials in the spring. Collect seed heads and berries to tuck among the branches. According to the National Wildlife Federation, good food sources include seed heads from flowers such as goldenrod, sunflower, coneflower, sumac and mullein; seed heads from grasses such as millet, wheat, foxtail and switchgrass; and berries on sprigs of holly, juniper, cedar, hawthorn and mountain ash. Make sure decorations are hung on a tree or shrub near a window so the whole family can enjoy watching the wildlife they attract. Contributing source: The Humane Society

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communityspotlight

Princeton Wine Aficionado

Pours Out Tips by Iris Bleu

electing wines according to or that follow recent “green” and “sustainability” movements and criteria can be confusing. Fortunately, Laurent Chapuis, proprietor of The Princeton Corkscrew Wine Shop, provides clarity to some important wine aspects and considerations. Chapuis, born and raised in a rural village in France, came to know, appreciate and love two things, “chickens and wine,” he comments. Fortunately for us, the latter became his forte. Upon reaching adulthood, he came to the United States to study, met and married his wife where they raised a family of three boys. In 1996, he opened the Princeton Corkscrew in downtown Princeton. “One of the biggest misconceptions about organic wines is sulfites,” Chapuis begins. “Every

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wine has them-- no wines are free of sulfites or they’d be nothing more than vinegar. Natural fermentation occurs and as a result, sulfites are produced. Organic does not mean sulfitefree; it means that no extra sulfites are added to the natural processes occurring in making the wine.” “I don’t want consumers to purchase a wine just because it has an organic label,” Chapuis continues. “Instead, they should purchase the product for the final quality and all of the sustainable and natural techniques that go into making it. I’ll never sell a product just because it has an organic label, but for the overall quality. Every producer represented at the Corkscrew believes that the only way to make great wine is to tend vines as the best of us tend our

gardens. For all the wonderful, modern wine-making techniques that exist today, none can transform bad grapes into good wine.” What makes a good quality wine then? To begin with, sustainable farming techniques and natural processes are what he seeks in the products he carries. Chapuis only deals with vineyards and not commercial box wineries. He often personally visits the farm/vineyard to ensure the final wine is derived from the utmost natural and healthy farming practices from the beginning step: the grape production. “At the Corkscrew, we only sell ‘terroir wine.’ The soil the grapes are grown in, the minerals the vine absorbs from the earth and the idiosyncrasies of each appellation’s weather should be echoed in the wine.” Chapuis strongly supports organic farming, and he is also a big proponent of the biodynamic process, and believes no chemicals or manufactured additions (like commercial yeast) should be added to the wine. He further recommends and only purchases from wineries that maintain a pristine logistics storage facility and distribution program. “A lot of bad wines don’t maintain this temperature control through the life cycle of the product, which results in a degraded final product. A two-degree shift in temperature of the wine could restart the fermentation process, ruining the wine.” Chapuis comments, “Nature is dynamic and yearly changes in wine characteristics are part of the natural and sustainable process. Anything opposite from this is likely derived from a chemical stabilization process. Did you ever wonder why some wines taste the same year after year, regardless of the vintage? This is likely attributed to additional color, smell and taste enhancements added to the final product. It’s just not natural.” Most patrons of the Princeton Corkscrew are surprised at the temperature in the store. To maintain the vibrancy, acidity and freshness of his wine, the store is kept at 57 degrees Fahrenheit year round. Chapuis comments, “Consumers will see or smell when milk is spoiled, but it’s a little more difficult to see and smell when wine is spoiled.” The Princeton Corkscrew is currently expanding. By the beginning of 2015, the new total floor space will be over 3,000 square feet. Through this growth in space, about 280 new wines will be offered. Chapuis imports mainly from Europe including Germany,

Austria, Greece, Portugal, Spain, Italy and of course France, as well as from Argentina, Chile and the west coast of the United States-- California, Oregon, and Washington State. Chapuis offers additional tips and recommendations for wine enthusiasts: “Research the salmon or the frog logo on wine bottles. This often indicates that the wine product was produced through a natural process. Second, aerators for red wine are overrated. Aeration initiates the oxidation process to enhance the aroma of the product, which is not necessary for a sustainably-made, high-quality product. “Wine is as much about family, friends and enjoying life as it is about farmers and winemakers, grapes and vineyards. Wine is to be examined, studied, commented upon and critiqued, but above all, it is to be enjoyed!” Location: 49 Hulfish St., Princeton. Hours: Mon., 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sun., noon to 7 p.m. For more information, call 609-4301200 or visit PrincetonCorkscrew.com.

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December 2014

Sacred Activism Love in Action Can Change the World by Judith Fertig

the Santuario de Guadalupe, in Santa Fe, New Mexico, that’s also reflected in his book, The Hope: A Guide to Sacred Activism. Born in India, educated at England’s Oxford University and in the religious traditions of Hinduism, Buddhism and Christianity, he now resides in Melbourne, Arkansas, where he’s founder and director of the Institute for Sacred Activism. The goal of his international travel is to bring concerned people together to proactively face global crises. Says Harvey, “Sacred activism is a fusion of two of the most powerful fires of the human psyche—the mystic’s passion for God and the activist’s passion for justice.”

Hallmarks of Spiritual Intent

“Sacred activism is the fusion of the mystic’s passion for God with the activist’s passion for justice, creating the burning sacred heart that longs to help, preserve and nurture every living thing.” ~ Andrew Harvey

he butterfly, a universal symbol of transformation, reminds us that becoming our best selves is an ongoing process. Yet these delicate, fluttering creatures are suffering a decline, especially the vivid orange and black monarch butterflies that depend on milkweed flowers for sustenance during their migration to and from Mexico and Canada. “When I heard about the monarch butterfly crisis, I also noticed that I had milkweed vines all along my back fence,” says Karen Adler, a Kansas City, Missouri, gardener. “In years past, I

would have pulled them out because they can strangle other plants. But I talked it over with my neighbor and we agreed to let them grow. This year, we had more monarchs than ever.” These two women might not realize it, but they had engaged in spiritual activism. They became aware of a problem, approached it with compassion, learned about the issue, realized life’s interdependence and committed themselves to positive action for a result that is good for all. It’s a process that Andrew Harvey first described in a 2005 talk he gave at

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The Awakening – Progressing from concerned citizen to spiritual activist is a gradual process. It may begin with an issue to which one feels called. “Our life in the world is a continual call and response,” observes Kabir Helminski, of Santa Cruz, California. He authors and translates books on the Muslim Sufi tradition, which tends to have an open relationship with other religions, and is a core faculty member of the Spiritual Paths Institute, which encourages seekers to find the sacred traditions that speak to them. “Sometimes events are a waking dream calling for interpretation, and sometimes the heart is directly addressed from within,” says Helminski. Compassion – Once an event moves us, prayer can be a pathway that opens our hearts to compassion, according to Jagadish Dass, of Granada Hills, California. The healer and teacher wrote The Prayer Project: The 3-Minute, 3 Times a Day Solution for World Change, which encourages involvement with something bigger than ourselves. Dass maintains that praying for three minutes, three times a day, will help us transmute into expressing a quiet power. “As we take responsibility for our lives, a transformation occurs within,” he says. We begin to inspire others to also take up the cause of working for change and bringing more peace, joy and love to the world. Likewise, Harvey urges each of us to make a real commitment to

daily spiritual practice on the road to spiritual activism. He suggests, “Start with a short prayer that aligns you with the pure deep love that is longing to use you as its instrument in the world.” Options include prayers from many of the world’s spiritual traditions shared in Dass’ book; a free download is provided at StewardshipOfTheSoul.com. Interconnectedness – Just as everything in the universe is connected by the simple act of being, like-minded people can connect to do good in the world. Sacred activists pursuing their own spiritual paths need to work with others, according to Harvey. “They form empowering and encouraging networks of grace—beings of like heart, brought together by passion, skill and serendipity to pool energies, triumphs, griefs, hopes and resources of all kinds. When people of like mind and heart gather together, sometimes miraculously powerful synergy can result.” Harvey has found that groups of six to 12 people become the most efficient and productive, whether joined together through a profession (such as physicians on medical missions), a passion for animal rights or the environment, or a strong sense of social justice. Knowledge – Knowledge, both inward- and outward-seeking, is another key to doing good for all. Carla Goldstein, JD, chief external affairs officer at the Omega Institute for Holistic Studies, in Rhinebeck, New York, and cofounder of its Women’s Leadership Center, used her interest in women’s empowerment issues as a springboard to spiritual activism. “For the first 20 years of my professional life, I focused on public policy and politics,” she says. “But something was missing in the rhetoric of taking care of each other.” Practicing yoga and meditation and receiving support during a personal health crisis prompted what she terms “an awakening understanding of a gap between personal change and systems change.” Goldstein came to question her own “rugged individualism” versus the interconnectedness she felt when people took care of her. “Can we actually move towards integrating these two ideals?” she asked herself. Knowledge about issues is readily available from experts and organi-

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“When you put spirit and activism together, you realize that all actions are connected to spirit. It makes you think about your duty in every instance—from how you treat people throughout your day to how you treat the environment. It becomes a satisfying way of living.” ~ Carla Goldstein

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zations that experts recommend; she observes, “The big question is: What is needed for us to be of help?” Sometimes listening and understanding can be powerful. Under the auspices of the Omega Women’s Leadership Center, Goldstein invited women on both sides of the reproductive rights issue to meet in 2005. They had been part of the Public Conversations Project in the Boston suburb of Watertown, Massachusetts, begun after medical staff members were killed and wounded at an area women’s health clinic providing abortions in 1994. “Women from the divided community initially came together to tell their stories,” Goldstein relates. “Over time, they developed a deep love for each other. Nobody changed their positions, but they did change how they interacted with one another.” They experienced a shift from emotional and verbal turbulence to, if not agreement, feelings of peace and understanding. Since then, the project has grown to facilitate such conversations in 38 states and 15 countries (PublicConversations.org). Positive Action – While many thorny issues take long-term, dedicated efforts to be resolved, others only need smaller individual or collaborative actions for positive outcomes. For Mark Nepo, a New York City poet, philosopher and author of the New York Times bestseller, The Book of Awakening, kindness is the force behind positive action, no matter how modest at first.

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“Kindness reveals kinship. It gives us connection to everything greater than us and everything else that is kind in the universe,” he says. “I think it’s powerfully effective, yet it’s such a small thing.” Nepo is active in Bread for the Journey, an international nonprofit that encourages community grassroots philanthropic projects that generate microgrants. One involved a small town in northern New Mexico that sought to improve the lives of local teenagers when the town’s elders wanted to open a youth center as a positive alternative to the drug scene. Just before the center was scheduled to open, the project ran out of money for required floodlights, so Bread for the Journey funded them and the center opened. “Within a few years, the whole culture shifted,” reports Nepo. This small contribution made a big difference to the whole community. Once awakened and nurtured, spiritual activism can become an omnipresent part of our lives. Says Goldstein, “When you put spirit and activism together, you realize that all actions are connected to spirit. It makes you think about your duty in every instance—from how you treat people throughout your day to how you treat the environment. It becomes a satisfying way of living.” Judith Fertig is a freelance writer from Overland Park, KS.

How Hands Uplift Hearts by Sandra Murphy

olunteering provides rewarding satisfaction and progress for adults and children alike. Seniors stay involved and parents work alongside kids to experience the value of helping others. Local places of worship often maintain a list of opportunities to serve a community through helping and healing ministries and special projects. The Red Cross is best known for supplying aid in emergency situations, but many needs are year-round (RedCross.org). A call to city hall can steer willing participants to the right local organization. Here are other examples from around the country and nearby to spark loveinspired ideas.

meditation or restorative yoga, work the front desk, read to preschoolers and do fundraising.

People

Environment

Meals on Wheels does much more than deliver lunches to those in need (mowaa.org). In Austin, Texas, the Healthy Options Program for the Elderly program brings a bag of groceries monthly to clients most nutritionally at risk, plus Groceries to Go volunteers shop for or with clients every two weeks. Minor safety-related home repairs are provided through the Handy Wheels project. In Seattle, community helpers paint classrooms, install new playground equipment and donate books and supplies at the city’s public schools. Berkley, California, YMCA volunteers teach classes like mindful

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Homeless dogs in shelters learn leash manners while participating in the Walk a Hound, Lose a Pound program at South Carolina’s Aiken County Animal Shelter. Leashes and treats are supplied to encourage volunteers to walk dogs at least once a week. It’s healthy exercise for both dogs and humans. To calculate the calorie burn, visit Tinyurl. com/WalkOffCalories. Shelter cats need socialization, too. Visits that include playtime and gentle petting make them more adoptable.

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New York Cares has family projects available with no minimum age requirement (NYCares.org). Either on an ongoing or a one-day basis, volunteers improve parks, plant community gardens and refresh public spaces. Trails require refurbishing after bad weather. Streams and waterways need a good cleanup after floods. Check with the park ranger for more information. With a little research, volunteers can find the right activity, whatever their location, interest, age or abilities. Another good place to start is VolunteerMatch. org, which is easy to search by zip code and personal interests. A perfect opportunity to help others awaits.

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December 2014

naturalpet

Pet Bed-Buddies

Is Sleeping Together Healthy?

here was a time room in the bed if you Staying in close when Eliska, don’t wake up.” contact makes it a three-pound Prague ratter, would curl easier to pick up Make a Good Choice up and sleep next to owner Krista DeAngelis, fleas, ticks or skin “Having your pet sleep in and most of the time, the bed with you is a permites a pet may she and the sonal choice,” says hodog enjoyed a peaceful carry, and can listic Veterinarian Patrick night’s slumber. Mahaney, of California worsen allergies. Then DeAngelis Pet Acupuncture & Wellmarried, and her husness, in West Hollywood. ~ Roger Valentine, band banned the dog By discouraging this holistic veterinarian behavior, “Your pet will from the bed for fear of unintentionally squashing Eliska in his be less likely to confuse your bed with sleep. After enduring a few sleepless theirs, and therefore prevent potential nights of canine whining and barking, territory-related problems.” By failing the Salt Lake City couple successfully to discourage it, “You not only face the curbed their pet’s protests by simply possibility of behavioral problems, you spraying Eliska with a misting bottle ev- could also face adverse effects to your ery time she acted up. After two nights own sleep and health,” he notes. of this routine, the pocket-sized pooch According to results published in was fully trained to sleep by herself in a survey of 300 sleep disorder patients another room. conducted by Dr. John Shepard, then “I originally thought letting my dog medical director of the Mayo Clinic sleep in my bed was a good idea,” says Sleep Disorders Center, in Rochester, DeAngelis, a communications director Minnesota, nearly 60 percent of the pet at Westminster College. “But I realized owners in the study slept with their pets that they can keep you up when they inside the bedroom. Twenty-two perrustle around, wake you up if they have cent of the patients were likely to have to go out and sometimes go to the bath- pets sleeping on the bed with them. 20

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by Erik J. Martin

Plus, 53 percent said their sleep was disrupted to some extent every night. Twenty-one percent and 7 percent of their dogs and cats, respectively, snored. Yet, a British study of 420 UK cat owners conducted by the nonprofit Cats Protection revealed that 44 percent of respondents (including 51 percent of women polled) said they enjoyed a better night’s sleep with a cat in bed with them than with a human companion. Benefits listed included an absence of snoring, more space on the bed and soothing purrs. “The advantages of letting your pet share your bed include companionship, warmth and a sense of security,” advises Mahaney. Among the drawbacks, he notes lack of space for people to sleep, interruption of normal sleep patterns and the pet’s confusion about its expected place to sleep.

Nip Problems in the Bud

To break a pet of a bed-sleeping habit, Mahaney recommends applying persistence, consistency and the following tips: n Establish a separate area or bed for the pet to sleep. A cat or dog bed can

A pet’s companionship can reduce levels of stress hormones while enabling people to deal with their emotions and stressful situations. ~ American Heart Association journal, Hypertension be as simple as a clean, soft blanket placed nearby. n Use positive reinforcement techniques. Offer a tiny training treat, “gooddog” clicker noise or praise when the animal is comfortably resting in its own bed, to reinforce this desirable behavior.

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n Immediately address any territorial aggression when co-sleeping with a pet, such as growling or nipping. First, authoritatively say, “No!” Then put the pet on the floor or into its own bed and give the command to sit and stay. n If problematic behavior persists, seek consultation with a veterinary behavior specialist.

Let Sleeping Dogs Lie

If a family member decides to share a bed with a pet, Mahaney offers the following recommendations: n Let it sleep on top of the covers, instead of under them. n Be aware of the need to remove environmental debris, including fecal material, on its coat before bedtime.

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n Give the dog an opportunity to void itself within a reasonable timeframe before going to sleep. A typical healthy dog should not have to get up in the middle of the night to urinate or defecate. n Allow a cat the opportunity to exit the bedroom throughout the night to play, eat, drink and use the litter box. Cats are nocturnal animals and are more likely to be active during lights out. Erik J. Martin regularly contributes to WebVet.com, from which this was adapted.

Unless we make Christmas an occasion to share our blessings, all the snow in Alaska won’t make it ‘white’. ~Bing Crosby natural awakenings

December 2014

Get Published in Natural Awakenings!

We encourage and welcome participation by experts in our community. Local articles are what make Natural Awakenings a community resource for naturally healthy and sustainable living... for everyone. We want our readers to get to know you. Submitting editorial for one or more of our departments provides you with the opportunity to share knowledge and bring focus to your business and/or practice. For details, editorial and styling guidelines, contact us. We’re here to help!

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greenliving

Toxin-Free

BEAUTY SALONS Pure Pampering Feels Natural and Safe by Sarah Tarver-Wahlquist

hen clients walk into New York City’s Swing Salon, they may be surprised by what they don’t smell—the range of chemicals usually wafting around hair salons. That’s because the owners have decided to use only natural and organic products. While many people may assume that all salon hair and body treatments are regulated and safe, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has no authority to require companies to test cosmetic products for safety, due to loopholes in the Toxic Substances Control Act. So, people are being exposed to dangerous toxins through salon products like nail polish, hair color processors and hair straighteners. Be aware that while labels of overthe-counter body care products are required by law to list ingredients, with the exception of the chemical soup often hidden under the term “fragrance”, the loophole for salon products is large. Jamie Silberberger, with the Women’s Voices for the Earth’s National Healthy Nail & Beauty Salon Alliance, reports, “Products sold for professional use in spas and salons are not required to be labeled with ingredients.” Fortunately, healthy alternatives are available, either by patronizing a green salon or using natural beauty treatments at home.

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Hair Straighteners One salon treatment—Brazilian Blowout hair straightening—can continue to expose customers and salon workers to toxic fumes even months after application. It’s among the conventional straightening products that contain formaldehyde, a known human carcinogen. “Exposure to formaldehyde doesn’t end with the treatment—the fumes are reactivated every time heat is applied to the hair,” says Jennifer Arce, a San Diego, California, salon worker who became sick after applying a single Brazilian Blowout treatment. “So, when a client who’s had a Brazilian Blowout done elsewhere comes into the salon to get a haircut or color and has her hair blow-dried, flat-ironed, curled or processed under the hood dryer, the fumes that come out of her hair make me and several of my coworkers sick all over again.” Solution: Avoid chemical hairstraightening treatments. Sign on to the Women’s Voice for the Earth letter campaign petitioning the FDA to remove Brazilian Blowout from U.S. shelves by visiting Tinyurl.com/ BanBrazilianBlowout.

Hair Dyes and Extensions About two-thirds of conventional hair dyes in the U.S. contain para-phenylenediamine (PPD), a chemical banned

for use in such products in Germany, France and Sweden. Exposure to PPD can cause allergic reactions ranging from skin irritation to death by anaphylactic shock, which happened to a teenager in 2010. When Spain’s University of Santiago de Compostela researchers conducted a metastudy examining the risk of cancer among hairdressers and related workers, all reported that employees had a higher risk of cancer than the general population. Hair extensions also warrant attention. Many adhesives used on extensions may contain 1,4 dioxane, listed as a probable carcinogen by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and styrene, a neurotoxin and suspected endocrine disruptor. Solution: Look for a clean, green salon that uses natural hair color treatments free from synthetic chemicals, ammonia or PPD. Individuals can also order nontoxic organic color kits direct from EcoColors.net.

Nail Polish When getting a manicure or pedicure, beware of the toxic trio of dibutyl phthalate, formaldehyde and toluene. Used to help nail products hold color, they’re linked to reproductive and development problems, plus dizziness and eye and lung irritation, according to the Environmental Working Group. Facing pressure from consumer groups and salon workers, some polish companies are now producing so-called “nontoxic” nail polish, although their labels aren’t verifiable. California’s Department of Toxic Substances Control recently tested 25 nail polishes sold to salons, 12 of which

claimed to be toluene-free, including seven said to be free of the toxic trio. The researchers found toluene in 10 of those, and one or more of the three ingredients in five out of the seven. Solution: Customers should bring their own safe nail polish and only patronize well-ventilated salons.

Find a Green Salon Many conventional body products like shampoos and massage oils contain a litany of ingredients that add to our chemical exposure. Ask questions to ensure all of a salon’s products are nontoxic or as low in toxicity as possible. For example, a large network of independently owned “concept salons” across America are connected with the Aveda Corporation (Aveda.com), a national leader in developing hair and body products that are free from the most dangerous ingredients. More than 90 percent of Aveda’s essential oils and 89 percent of its raw herbal ingredients are certified organic. Also look for members of the Green Spa Network, a nationwide coalition of spas that pledge to be energy efficient and sustainable in all of their practices (GreenSpaNetwork.org). If a green salon hasn’t yet arrived locally, bring nontoxic products for appointments and ask the stylist to use them. Visit the Skin Deep Database at ewg.org/skindeep to find the least-toxic products for at-home use. Sarah Tarver-Wahlquist is a freelance writer in Tucson, Arizona.

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December 2014

consciouseating

HAPPY FEASTING TO ALL

Tasty Rituals that Deepen the Holiday Spirit by Lane Vail

he holiday season is ripe with an array of spiritual, cultural and family rituals. We celebrate, reflect, give gifts and, of course, feast. Fortunately, the media also teems with tips on how to avoid high-calorie holiday goodies, says Dr. Michelle May, author of Eat What You Love, Love What You Eat. For our diet-driven culture to resolve its struggle with food, she says we must learn to honor its intrinsic value. Ritualized eating can help; a recent study published in the journal Psychological Science found that engaging in food rituals evokes mindfulness that enhances the enjoyment of eating.

Pause

Hunger, the body’s fuel gauge, manifests in physical symptoms like a growling stomach or low blood sugar, says May, citing a useful analogy. “You wouldn’t drive around and pull into every gas station you see; you’d check your fuel gauge first. Before filling up with food, pause and check your fuel gauge. Am I actually hungry, or is this desire coming from something else?” May suggests practicing FEASTing: First, focus on physical sensations, thoughts and emotions; perhaps we’re thirsty, rather than hungry, rationalizing that holiday foods are special, or feeling stressed or lonely. Next, explore why the feelings or thoughts are present, and 24

then accept them without judgment. Strategize ways of satisfying the need and take a small step toward change.

Savor

Complex preparations for a major holiday can provoke anxiety and impatience, and likewise, feelings of longing or disappointment when it’s over. Sarah Ban Breathnach, bestselling author of Simple Abundance and Peace and Plenty, recommends allowing Christmastide to unfold at its own pace and celebrating all of December with a homemade Advent calendar. Craft a tree-shaped tower of tiny boxes or a garland of burlap mini-bags clipped with clothespins. Place an almond covered in organic dark chocolate in each container and use the treat as a daily mini-meditation. “Drop into the present moment, fully savor the luxurious, small bite and experience the pleasure of eating,” suggests May. Consider it symbolic of the season’s sweetness.

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Connect

“Food connects us with one another, our heritage and our culture,” says May. Heather Evans, Ph.D., a Queen’s University professor and a holiday culinary history expert in Ontario, Canada, suggests creating a food diary of traditions to reinforce a connection with the past and support a holiday food legacy for the future. Ask grandparents about their childhood culinary memories, peruse family recipe books or discover new dishes that honor everyone’s ethnic heritage. Then create an heirloom holiday cookbook with handwritten recipes arranged alongside favorite photos and stories.

Sync

According to pagan philosophy, sharing seasonal food with loved ones during the winter solstice on December 21 symbolizes the shared trust that warmth and sunlight will return. Eating warm foods provides physical comfort and eating seasonally and locally connects us to the Earth, observes May. Sync body and spirit with the season by stewing root vegetables, baking breads, sipping hot cider and tea, and nibbling on nuts and dried fruits. “The repetition of predictable foods is reassuring,” remarks Evans, and it celebrates nature’s transitions.

Play

Stir-Up Sunday is a Victorian amusement filled with fun, mystery and mindfulness, says Ban Breathnach. Some December Sunday, have each family member help stir the batter of a special Christmas cake while stating a personal new year’s intention. Drop a clean coin, bean or trinket into the mix and bake. Serve it with a sprig of holly on Christmas Day, and the person with the piece containing the lucky charm will be rewarded with a prosperous, wholesome and positive new year, according to tradition. Evans remarks, “This is a wonderful ritual for nurturing the health and spirit of the family.”

Give

Boxing Day offers something far more meaningful to celebrate than postholiday sales. Originating as a tradition that thrived during the 19th century,

“December 26 was a chance for landowners and homeowners to give back to household staff and local tradespeople,” says Evans. “It’s a tradition worth reviving to pause, reflect on our own good fortune and contribute to others’ comfort.” Consider serving a meal at a local soup kitchen, collecting items for a food drive or offering a box of healthy culinary treats to community stewards at a fire station, post office or library. On Christmas Day, says Ban Breathnach, “Our kids have the world lying at their feet.” Boxing Day, she says, provides a natural transition to reach out in charity. Lane Vail is a freelance writer and blogger at DiscoveringHomemaking.com.

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A Revitalizing Ritual for the New Year Start the new year with a tabula rasa (clean slate) by hosting a New Year’s Eve Good Riddance Tea Party. Gather family and friends over warm ginger tea, spiced apple cider, hot chocolate and festive finger foods. Guests write down on slips of paper any mistakes, disappointments, regrets, hurts or failings they wish to be forgiven or forgotten. One by one, put them into a crackling fireplace or bonfire to symbolize surrendering of the past. “This ties the heart strings in a comforting bow,” comments author Sarah Ban Breathnach. Then, inscribe fresh intentions for the year to come and tuck them away in a special place. “This is the most mystical part, because so many prayers get answered,” Ban Breathnach says. Lastly, toast the new year with optimism and joy.

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December 2014

fitbody

Find Your Fitness Style Workouts that Suit Your Personality by Wendy Worrall Redal

hile some people find repetitious workouts boring, others like doing predictable routines at regular locations. Ensuring that our fitness regimen jives with our “fitness personality” is integral to making exercise a consistent part of our lifestyle, a concept that has traction among exercise experts. Jonathan Niednagel, founder and director of The Brain Type Institute, in Mountain Home, Arkansas, and an athletic consultant for professional teams, explains in his book, Your Key to Sports Success, that understanding our inborn brain type can help us to determine which sport is best suited to motivate us. In Suzanne Brue’s book, The 8 Colors of Fitness, she applies principles from the Myers-Briggs personality inventory to help readers develop a personalized exercise program. Susan Davis-Ali, Ph.D., in St. Paul, Minnesota, a professional coach for working women, created a Fitness Interest Profile survey for the Life Time Fitness health club chain. She points to research that suggests people that engage in activities appropriate for their personalities enjoy their workouts more and are likely to stay with them longer. Identifying our fitness personality can help us find a program that suits our rhythms and interests. Based on composites from growing research, here are six categories that assess and capture the way we may feel about exercise; more than one can apply to any individual. Disciplined and driven. This is an image to which many of us may aspire, even though not everyone fits the mold. These exercisers are self-motivated and goal-oriented. Commitment and consistency go hand-in-hand. They like to use devices to track progress, maintain a training log and/or work with a personal trainer in systematic workouts geared to measure improvement. Disciplined types are often early risers; starting the day with regular exercise is second

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nature. Compatible fitness regimens include cardio workouts, interval and weight training, running, swimming and martial arts. Relishes routine. While these folks are disciplined and driven in some ways, they tend to be more relaxed about regimens. The key to success here is consistency. They like order and familiarity in exercise settings and practice and may enjoy reading or watching a screen during workouts. Whatever the preferred approach, whether it’s a favorite training video, Wii Fit video game, favorite teacher or memorized Pilates moves, these exercisers like to stick with it, even working out at the same time every day—often first thing in the morning or after work—finding that regularity can be habit-forming. Conscious contemplative. Reflective individuals enjoy quiet, solo activities like long-distance running, biking, hiking and swimming, that allow opportunities to look inward, often without thinking too much about the physical details. Exercise offers a chance to clear the mind and renew the spirit while strengthening the body. These types naturally gravitate to outdoor pursuits, but some indoor practices may also suit them, like yoga, Pilates, tai chi or even karate, which incorporate a strong mind-body component. Workouts are often soothing, rather than intense. Plays well with others. For many people, exercise is best enjoyed with others, combining the social and fitness benefits of both. Connections and camaraderie get them off the couch, revved up and ready to go. Whether it’s a committed group of friends chatting during water aerobics or a highpowered cardio class that compares notes, motivation comes primarily from the presence—and accountability factor—of others. A lunch-hour class at a nearby studio or gym may be a fun break in the workday. On weekends, consider golf, tennis, dance or a local recreation team. Compulsive competitor. While the communal aspect is appealing, the greater gratification for this type comes through the thrill and challenge of competition. Trying to win is the great motivator, unlike driven and disciplined types that are happy to push through to their personal best. Team sports are a natural outlet, including soccer, rugby, lacrosse, basketball or swimming, plus disc golf, tennis or racquetball matches and running events. Avid for adventure. It’s tough for any formal exercise program to keep the attention of adventurers. They crave freshness and spontaneity in fitness venues, activities that engage their interest and animate enthusiasm. It’s crucial for adventurous types to mix things up and not rely on any one exercise practice. Outdoor endeavors such as snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, inline skating or mountain biking have appeal. They may gravitate to the variables of Nia, Zumba’s high-energy Latin dance groove, kickboxing, exercise balls or hot yoga. A midday exercise escape can break the work routine. Their key to keeping active is to keep things stimulating. Wendy Worrall Redal blogs at Gaiam Life (Life.Gaiam.com), from which this was adapted.

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Regularly Scheduled Services Sunday Mornings Meditation Service ------ 10:00AM – 10:50 AM Reading Service ------ 11:00AM – 12:00 Noon Thursday Evenings Inspirational Service ------ 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM Prayer Service ------ 7:30 PM to 7:40 PM Private Meditation ------ 7:40 PM to 8:30 PM Second Saturday of the Month Group Meditation ------ 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM

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December 2014

healthykids

Can-Do Kids Changing Our World at Any Age by Ellen Sabin

This article is written especially for young readers eager to embrace the true spirit of the holiday season. Sharing it with them can help cultivate a lifelong practice of giving.

ave you ever seen someone do something that changed a situation from bad to good? Maybe your parents helped someone whose car broke down, or a teacher spent extra time after class helping you with schoolwork. No matter your age, where you live or what you own, you have the power to do good, too. What you do can make other people happy and make the world a better place. Here are some ideas to help you figure out how. 28

n A good place to start is to think about what’s important to you. This will help you find a way of giving back that you’ll enjoy and want to do again and again. For example, if you love taking care of animals, offer to walk an elderly person’s dog for them. If you get sad when you think about someone being lonely, visit a neighbor that lives alone or send a special card to a relative as a way to show your love. n It’s nice to help strangers, but you can also do little things close to home that’ll make life easier and better for your family. You can call your grandma to say hello, help your mom or dad with the dishes or play a favorite game with your little sister or brother.

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n You can also use your own special talents to help others. If you are a good cook, bake a healthy holiday treat to bring to someone that is feeling sick. You can read out loud a story to a younger child. If you’re strong and have lots of energy, you can help your neighbor take out the trash or do other household chores. n You can have fun and make an even bigger difference by doing good things with others. One way to get your friends excited about joining you is to plan a “Giving Party”. Ask your parents to help you download a free guide (WateringCanPress.com/html/ parents.html) that has fun ideas and activities for creating a holiday-time or birthday party or rainy day get-together.

n Giving to other people is important, but the planet needs us, too. You can practice giving by picking up litter, recycling and even turning off lights when you leave a room. When we pay attention to the environment around us, we can learn how to respond in a giving way. Ellen Sabin is the founder and president of Watering Can Press (WateringCanPress. com), a publishing company committed to growing kids with character. Her series of award-winning books include The Giving Book: Open the Door to a Lifetime of Giving; The Greening Book: Being a Friend to Planet Earth; and The Healthy Body Book: Caring for the Coolest Machine You’ll Ever Own.

Fun Activity Who’s Been Giving to You?

Whether it’s time, love or things, the people around us give to us all the time. Sometimes we don’t stop to think about what people do for us, so we forget to say, “Thank you.” Appreciating what people give us is just as important as giving to others.

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Here are some questions to ask yourself. After you have answered each question, think about what you can do to thank people for their kindness. Who shared with you? What did they share? Who taught you something? What did they teach you? Who showed you love? How did they show you love?

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Source: Adapted excerpt from The Giving Book: Open the Door to a Lifetime of Giving by Ellen Sabin.

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natural awakenings

December 2014

Awakening Humanity with Children by Jamie McNeely Quirk

his season and throughout the year, we adults may find ourselves wondering how on Earth, in our endless rush of tasks and obligations, hammered-out emails and online purchases, we find the time to tend to our humanness. At times, the course of the day appears little more than a string of biological imperatives: eat, sleep, stay warmâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;yet we are not mere animals. At other times, all of the activity we have to show for a day appears on a disembodied screen. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re fortunate enough to have a child, the pressure seems exponential: how do we ensure that we are educating more than just a brain or train more than a simple set of limbs? We may consciously work to encourage the scholar, the athlete, the artist, but is there anything we can do to draw forth the human being? The following suggestions are inspired by Waldorf Education, a 95-year-old approach proposed by Austrian philosopher and scientist Rudolf Steiner, based on a deep, holistic understanding of human development. Rooted in human relationships and interactions, and encompassing an integrated model of thinking, feeling and willing, Waldorf methods are designed to encourage curiosity, and awaken and inspire the best, essential human within every individual.

Language and Relationships There are many obvious benefits to putting away the smart 30

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phones and tablets, and making time to communicate with one another face to face. For children, the rewards are even greater. A regular walk (and talk) through nature, a shared meal where all screens are put away and everyone has a voice in the conversation, or a story or song before bedtime may seem simple on the surface; however, children learn how to read body language and tone from these interactions, and strengthen their comprehension, empathy and other language and social skills.

Creativity and Artistic Expression

Whereas not every child will and should grow up to be a professional painter or musician, every human being has the innate need for expression and the ability to create. By integrating opportunities for creativity and artistic expression in everyday life, we allow the child to work out feelings they may otherwise not be able to articulate, explore possibilities beyond what exists in front of us and connect to things in personal, authentic ways. Make time this season to create a handmade card or other craft for a friend or loved one, ask children to decorate their rooms or part of the home

as they choose, or work together on a holiday poem or song to share aloud. These are often the best presents.

world. These and other community activities can also help to develop the will in us all, building physical strength and endurance, self-confidence and determination to bring a project to completion. As it becomes more difficult to keep technology in its proper place and nourish interpersonal relationships in meaningful ways, we can all take steps to recognize and honor the humanness in ourselves and the children around us. A quote from W. B. Yeats is in Waldorf schools all over the world: “Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” The same might be said of raising children in general; there’s so much we as adults want them to know, tools we want to give them for the journey. But that spark that carries them forward, that burns from within—that gift is priceless, and the privilege to tend it is their gift to us.

Service to Community

It’s no accident that so many cultures throughout human history have celebrated festivals of giving and community during fall and winter. In the past, survival itself depended on cooperation, and compassion and love are certainly among our highest callings. Involving children at a young age, whether volunteering as a family to serve at a soup kitchen, visiting a senior community to sing or just chat, or assembling gift packages for children in need, sends a powerful message of selflessness and caring, and may forge habits that last a lifetime.

For more information on Waldorf Education in New Jersey, including how its curriculum aims to awaken humanity in each child, contact the Waldorf School of Princeton at Communications@ PrincetonWaldorf.org or visit PrincetonWaldorf. org.

Stewardship of the Earth

Jamie McNeely Quirk is head of communications and marketing for Waldorf School of Princeton. He can be reached at 609-466-1970 x112 or email JQuirk@PrincetonWaldorf.org. See ad on page 29.

This season, do something with children that gives back to the planet. Whether it’s on a hyperlocal level, such as adding a bird feeder to your yard or starting a compost bin, or more globally minded, like collaborating on a household recycling plan or brainstorming ways to save energy, winter is an ideal time to talk about humanity’s gratitude and responsibility toward the

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December 2014

wisewords

Opening Up to Miracles Gabrielle Bernstein on Creating More Happiness by April Thompson

otivational speaker and bestselling author Gabrielle Bernstein knows the gravitational pull of addiction firsthand. Although introduced to spiritual practices from an early age, she turned away from that upbringing in her 20s, pulled instead into a vortex of drugs, alcohol and unhealthy relationships while running a public relations firm promoting Manhattan nightclubs. After hitting rock bottom at age 25, Bernstein made the unwavering decision to seek spiritual help and change her life. The entrepreneurial young woman found her groove as a spiritual teacher, introducing millions to new ways of thinking and living through her books, lectures, blogs and videos. Her nononsense approach to spirituality and knack for making practices like meditation and prayer accessible to beginners and cynics have attracted a new generation of seekers. Bernstein’s latest book, Miracles Now:108 Life-Changing Tools for Less Stress, More Flow, and Finding Your True Purpose, offers simple, yet powerful tips to short-circuit unhealthy thought patterns and take a shortcut to transformational change.

Why do you reframe a miracle as simply a shift in perception? Shifting your perception and choosing again is a core principle from A Course in Miracles, a metaphysical text that I study and teach from. When you choose 32

to reorganize your belief system and align it with a loving, forgiving perspective, rather than a fear-based reality, that’s when miracles can happen.

Some people shift away from a harmful relationship with addictive drugs and alcohol like you did, while others take such unhealthy behaviors to the grave; what makes the difference? Often when we get caught in unhealthy behavior, we aren’t willing to ask for help. I think the reason I was able to leave those behaviors behind and create a new path was my willingness to live a different way. I was able to witness my life and see that it wasn’t working. It’s an ongoing process; I’ve been on my current path of turning to spiritual principles for many years, but I’m still constantly working to apply them throughout my moment-tomoment experiences.

How does meditation help create radical change? I think meditation is a key tool for health, happiness and well-being. It can help reorganize the nervous system, lower stress levels, calm the mind and recalibrate energy. It can help us experience more synchronicity in our lives and a greater sense of interconnectedness, as well.

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What do you struggle with the most and what personal miracle are you still trying to realize? I’m in constant conversation with myself over my thoughts and beliefs about judgment and separation. People are programmed by society to believe we are separate and to judge ourselves and others. My practice suggests a reinterpretation of that general belief system in order to perceive things differently. I also try to forgive limiting thoughts I was holding onto; for example, judging myself for not performing well at a lecture. Talking too much in conversations is a big challenge for me. A practice in my Miracles Now book called WAIT, for “Why am I talking?” reminds me to notice when I’m saying too much, commenting unnecessarily or not supporting the greater good.

How do you think about money, and has that proven helpful in broader terms? I believe that we have the power to attract healthier relationships in our financial circumstances in the same way that we have the power to attract healthier relationships with people in our lives. Some people think that you can’t both be spiritual and secure financial abundance; I think that’s nonsense. When you start to reorganize your beliefs around your self-worth and capacity to earn, and open up to your intuitive voice and the creative possibilities for earning, then your financial situation can change dramatically. I have lived that principle fully. I was brought up in a poverty mindset, but with a shift in perception, I was able to release my fears of financial insecurity.

Do you have a go-to practice that you reach for first when faced with a difficult situation? When I’m faced with a complicated situation or feeling powerless, I say a prayer in stillness. Such a practice asks through prayer and listens through meditation. It’s in that stillness that I can hear the voice of intuition and the voice of forgiveness, and love can come forward. Connect with freelance writer April Thompson at AprilWrites.com.

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December 2014

The Universal Nature of Love by Paramahansa Yogananda

n the universal sense, love is the divine power of attraction in creation that harmonizes, unites and binds together. It’s opposed by the power of repulsion, which is the outgoing energy that materializes creation from the cosmic consciousness of God. Repulsion keeps all forms in the manifested state through maya, the power of delusion that divides, differentiates and disharmonizes. The attractive force of love counteracts cosmic repulsion to harmonize all creation and ultimately draw it back to God. Those who live in tune with the attractive force of love achieve harmony with nature and their fellow beings, and are attracted to blissful reunion with God. In this world, love presupposes duality; it springs from a mutual exchange or suggestion of feeling between two or more forms. Even animals express a certain type of love for one another and for their offspring. In many species, when one mate dies, the other usually succumbs soon after. But this love in animals is instinctive; they are not responsible for their love. Human beings, however, have a great deal of conscious

self-determination in their exchange of love with others. In man, love expresses itself in various ways. We find love between man and wife, parent and child, brother and sister, friend and friend, master and servant, guru and disciple—as with Jesus and his disciples and the great masters of India and their chelas—and between the devotee and God, soul and Spirit. Love is a universal emotion; its expressions are distinguished by the nature of the thought through which it moves. Hence, when love passes through the heart of the father, fatherly consciousness translates into fatherly love. When it passes through the heart of the mother, motherly consciousness translates into motherly love. When it passes through the heart of the lover, the consciousness of the lover gives that universal love still another quality. It’s not the physical instrument, but the consciousness through which the love moves that determines the quality of the love expressed. Thus a father may express motherly love, a mother

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may express friendly love, a lover may express divine love. Every reflection of love comes from the one Cosmic Love, but when expressed as human love in its various forms, there is always some taint in it. The mother doesn’t know why she loves the child; the child knows not why he loves the mother. They don’t know whence comes this love they feel for one another. It is the manifestation in them of God’s love; and when it is pure and unselfish, it reflects His divine love. Thus, by investigating human love, we can learn something of divine love, for in human love we have glimpses of that love of God’s. Adapted from a talk Yogananda (18931952) gave at the SRF Temple, in Hollywood, CA. Submitted by Aneesh Bakshi, Managing Council Member of Princeton Meditation Group. Location:12 Roszel Rd., Princeton. For more information, call 609-902-4850 or visit Princeton MeditationGroup.org. See ad on page 27.

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Natural Awakenings provides helpful information on natural health and environmental issues with a consistently positive perspective and tone, which is not always easy considering how serious and intimidating some of these topics are. It’s a rarity.

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Articles and topics like “Rethinking Cancer” push the envelope of what natural health has to offer to humanity. Readers intuitively know that we are on their side and appreciate having the facts and the freewill to make the decisions that are best for them. Competitors will come and go but if we continue to stay on the cutting edge of personal health, no one can stop us.

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December 2014

departments healthbriefs consciouseating globalbriefs wisewords ecotips fitbody greenliving inspiration healingways naturalpet healthykids

themes JANUARY whole systems health plus: energy boosters

FEBRUARY enlightened relationships plus: healing grief MARCH animal rights plus: new healthy cuisine APRIL natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wisdom plus: healthy home MAY breast health plus: natural birth JUNE healing addiction plus: balanced man JULY food democracy plus: inspired living AUGUST parenting with presence plus: creativity SEPTEMBER agelessness plus: yoga benefits OCTOBER NOVEMBER

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plus: natural antidepressants

true wealth plus: beauty

DECEMBER prayer & meditation plus: holiday themes

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calendarofevents NOTE: All calendar events must be received via email by the 10th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Email Calendar@NAMercer.com.

Rider University Band: Holiday Concert – 7:30pm. Free. Annual holiday concert of Rider University’s one and only concert band and The Blawenburg Band, a local community band founded in 1890. The program will feature band classics and arrangements of holiday tunes. Rider University Art Gallery, Bart Luedeke Center, Lawrenceville. 609-921-7100x8307.

Holiday Open House – 12-5pm. Enjoy a cozy and festive experience with complimentary snacks, coffee, wine and beer. Discounted products available. Blue Moon Acres, 11 Willowcreek Drive, Pennington. Call for more details, 609-737-8333.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3

Healthy Happy Holiday Eating – 6-7pm. Classes are led by a registered dietitian. Includes taste sampling and recipes to take home. Register at least 3 days prior to class. Enjoy the holiday favorites by learning a few tips to reduce calories without losing the taste. Cost $10. RWJ Health & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Rd, Hamilton. Register 609-584-5900. Guided Aromatic Meditation – 7-8pm. Mindful Walking Meditation Dedicate your attention to the sensation of walking. Aromatic plant essences will be used to help with the breath and overall experience. Cost: $10. RWJ Health & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Rd, Hamilton. Register 609-584-5900.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4 Community Acupuncture Sessions – Call for appointment times. Treatment designed for stress management and routine aches. Aware Acupuncture, 114 Straube Center Blvd, Ste K 6-7, Pennington. 609-737-0970. Preserving! with Kim Rizk of Jammin’ Crepes – 6:30pm. A Cornell Extension Master Preserver, as well as restaurant owner, Kim will lead you through a variety of preserving techniques & how to safely water-bath the jars for shelf stabilization. Cherry Grove Farm, 3200 Lawrenceville Rd, Lawrenceville. To register or for information call 609-219-0053.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5 Holiday Open House – 12-5pm. Enjoy a cozy and festive experience with complimentary snacks, coffee, wine and beer. Discounted products available. Blue Moon Acres, 11 Willowcreek Drive, Pennington. Call for more details, 609-737-8333. Men in Retirement – 2pm. Free. Meet other men who are making or have made the transition into retirement. Monument Hall, Suzanne Patterson Bldg, 45 Stockton St, Princeton. 609 924-7108.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7 Seva Stress Release Workshop – 10:30am-1:30pm and 2:30-5:30pm. Join Regina Rosenthal, PT, MA to learn how to use Seva Acupressure, addressing needs for relaxation, well-being and stress. Two modules. Cost $70/modules. Energy for Healing, 4446 Rte 27, Kingston. Call Jody if interested 267-391-7767.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 2

Fantasy through the Arts – 11am-1:30pm. Free. The Drumthwacket Foundation in partnership with New Jersey Ballet Company, New Jersey Symphony Orchestra, New Jersey Theatre Alliance and New Jersey Garden Club presents “Fantasy through the Arts,” this year’s holiday décor theme for “Drumthwacket” the Governor’s residence. Reservation required. Drumtwacket 354 Stockton Street, Princeton. 609-683-0057.

provide attractive ‘arrangements’ throughout the winter months. Cost: $5/free, non-members/members. Brunswick Gardens, 130 Log Cabin Rd, New Brunswick. 732-932-8451.

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Holiday Wine Trail Weekend – 12-5pm. Visit Terhune Orchards Vineyard and Winery Tasting Room to sample award winning wines and warm up with hot mulled wine made with Chambourcin, apple cider and Terhune Orchards apples. The whole family can enjoy exploring the farm, visiting barn yard of animals and the farm store, still full of the harvest bounty. Cost $5 admission per person wine tasting. Terhune Orchards & Winery, 330 Cold Soil Rd, Princeton. 609-924-2310.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 8 Tiny Tot Walk – 10-11am. Join Naturalist Pam Newitt for an outdoor exploration of the natural world. All children must be walking and accompanied by an adult. Come dressed for fickle fall weather. Registration required. Cost $7/$10, member/non-member. Stony Brook-Millstone Watershed Association, 31 Titus Mill Rd, Pennington. 609-737-7592.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6 Winter Bird Walk – 9-11am. Join SBMWA Education Director Jeff Hoagland on a hike of the Watershed Reserve in search of wintering birds. Bring binoculars and dress for possibly muddy or snowy walking conditions. This hike is co-sponsored by the Washington Crossing Audubon Society. Registration required. Cost $5/person. Stony Brook-Millstone Watershed Association, 31 Titus Mill Rd, Pennington. 609-737-7592. Holiday Open House – 12-5pm. 12-5pm. Enjoy a cozy and festive experience with complimentary snacks, coffee, wine and beer. Discounted products available. Blue Moon Acres, 11 Willowcreek Drive, Pennington. Call for more details, 609-737-8333. Holiday Wine Trail Weekend – 12-5pm. Visit Terhune Orchards Vineyard and Winery Tasting Room to sample award-winning wines and warm up with hot mulled wine made with Chambourcin, apple cider and Terhune Orchards apples. The whole family can enjoy exploring the farm, visiting barn yard of animals and the farm store, still full of the harvest bounty. Cost $5 admission per person wine tasting. Terhune Orchards & Winery, 330 Cold Soil Rd, Princeton. 609-924-2310. Garden Talk, Winter Containers – 3-4pm. Most gardeners ignore their containers once colder weather arrives, but with a few simple and easy tricks, your containers and window boxes can

Enchanted Winter Wonderland Market – 5-9pm. 2nd annual Enchanted Winter Wonderland; twinklelit outdoor evening of food, shopping, & community. Sip mulled cider and hot chocolate as you browse local artisan goods in a European-style market. Feast on gourmet made-to-order grilled cheese, enjoy live music & warm yourself by the bonfire. Cherry Grove Farm, 3200 Lawrenceville Rd, Lawrenceville. 609-219-0053. Holiday Women’s Corner – 6-8pm. Giving Yourself the Gift of Self-Care. Do you have time for everyone else in your life but yourself? Get off the treadmill and join this quarterly dinner program to learn tips from expert Nate Terrell, LCSW on achieving optimal self-care despite the competing demands of everyday life. Cost $5. RWJ Health & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Rd, Hamilton. Register 609-584-5900.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12 Mystery of Existence – 7-8:30pm. Join Brenda Morgan, PhD as she shares deeper understandings of life, in which this knowing is the beginning of a natural unfoldment which accelerates the higher evolutionary process within our universe. Cost $20. Euphemia Gallery, 200 N Main St, Hightstown. Call 609-651-2855. Seeking Simplicity – 7pm. The holiday season may bring joy and togetherness, but also disruption and stress. Learn how to navigate these rough waters with the author of Heaven on Earth: A Handbook for Parents of Young Children, Sharifa Oppenheimer, and craft a family culture that celebrates what this

natural awakenings

December 2014

Calendar A wonderful resource for filling your workshops, seminars and other events.

time of year has to offer, while preserving healthy childhoods and sane adulthoods. Waldorf School of Princeton, 1062 Cherry Hill Road, Princeton. RSVP 609-466-1970 x112.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13 Learn How to Make Cheese – 12-2pm. Doubleheader cheese making class. Ricotta and mozzarella. Cost $65, payment made at reservation. Cherry Grove Farm, 3200 Lawrenceville Rd, Lawrenceville. To register or for information call 609-219-0053.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16

Two styles available: Calendar of Dated Events: Designed for events on a specific date of the month. 50 words. n

Calendar of Ongoing Events: Designed for recurring events that fall on the same day each week. 25 words. n

609-249-9044

Publisher@NAMercer.com 38

Heartsaver AED Class – 6-9:30pm. The Heartsaver AED course teaches CPR, automated external defibrillation (AED) use, relief of choking in adults, children and infants; and use of barrier devices for all ages. Cost $60. Registration required. Community Education & Outreach Program, 731 Alexander Rd, Ste 103, Princeton. 888-897-8979.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17 Keeping Bones Healthy – 10:30-11:30am. Free. Informative session about osteoporosis and what you can do to keep your bones strong. Hopewell Senior Center, 395 Reading Rd, Pennington. 888-897-8979. Health Rhythms Drumming – 7-8pm. Group drumming is good fun and good for you. HealthRythms®, an evidence-based program, strengthens the immune system and reduces stress. Drums provided or bring your own. Mauri Tyler, CTRS, CMP. Cost: $15. RWJ Fitness & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Rd, Hamilton. 609-584-5900.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18 Community Acupuncture Sessions – Call for appointment times. Treatment designed for stress management and routine aches. Aware Acupuncture, 114 Straube Center Blvd, Ste K 6-7, Pennington. 609-737-0970. Free Vision Screening – 4-7pm. Free. Princeton HealthCare System and NJ Commission for the Blind: Project Prevention Unit offer free vision screenings to uninsured or underinsured adults and children. All children must be accompanied by a

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legal guardian. Hamilton YMCA, 1315 WhitehorseMercerville Rd, Hamilton. 888-897-8979.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 19 Transitions into Retirement – 3:30pm. Free. Group will deal with issues in making the adjustment to retirement. Group leader is Dr. John George. Suzanne Patterson Bldg, 45 Stockton St, Princeton. Call to register 609-924-7108. Reiki Sharing Evening – 7-9pm. Trained practitioners are invited to share Reiki with each other. Bring a pillow and a small sheet and blanket. Cost: $5. RWJ Fitness & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Rd, Hamilton. 609-584-5900.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20 Candle Making – 1-3pm. 8 yo+. Celebrate the Winter Solstice and the return of the light by making candles with the Teacher-Naturalists. Create handdipped candles, sand candles, and molded candles. Learn how to shape candles and add embellishments, then go home with your handmade gifts. Registration required. Cost $10/$15, member/non-member. Stony Brook-Millstone Watershed Association, 31 Titus Mill Rd, Pennington. 609-737-7592

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21 Princeton Brass Band, Holiday Concert – 2pm. Free. Celebrate the holiday in style - complete with a special Happy New Year segment with bells and whistles. Princeton University: Richardson Auditorium in Alexander Hall, Princeton. 609-921-7100 x8307.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23 Family & Friend Infant CPR – 7-9pm. Family & Friends CPR program teaches how to perform CPR in infants, and how to help an infant who is choking. Cost $25. Babies R Us, 700 Nassau Park Blvd, West Windsor. 888-897-8979

ongoingevents NOTE: All calendar events must be received via email by the 10th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Email Calendar@NAMercer.com.

DAILY

SUNDAY Spiritual Awakening Service – 10:15 am. If you are looking for a warm, dynamic community of spiritually minded people, we encourage you to come to one of our Sunday Transformation Services and mingle afterwards with refreshments and conversation. The Center for Spiritual Living Princeton holds services every Sunday at the Princeton Masonic Lodge, 354 River Rd, Princeton. 609-924-8422. Soup Kitchen – 4:30-6pm. 3rd Sun. Volunteers arrive at 3pm. Free hot meal served. VFW Post 5700, 140 Dutch Neck Rd, Hightstown. Information: Adrenne 609-336-7260.

MONDAY Energy Monday - Get a shake at Retro Fitness of Bordentown and receive an energy boost free in any Retro Blend. Retro Fitness of Bordentown, 860 Rte 206, Bordentown. 609-372-4020. Discover the Serenity of T’ai Chih – 11am. Discover the Serenity of T’ai Chi Chih (Joy thru Movement Class). Need better balance, concerned about high blood pressure, quality sleep a challenge? Join class at Monroe Twp Senior Ctr, Monroe. For more information, additional locations, & to learn how to save on class fee, contact Siobhan at 609-752-1048. Rise to the Task Free Dinner – 4-5:30pm. Free community dinner. First Presbyterian Church of Hightstown, 320 N Main St, Hightstown. For more info contact Rise office at 609-443-4464. Breast Cancer Support Group – 6-7:30pm. 3rd Tues. No registration required walk-ins welcome. UMCP Breast Health Center, 300B PrincetonHightstown Rd, East Windsor Medical Commons 2, East Windsor. Discover the Serenity of T’ai Chih – 6:30pm. Discover the Serenity of T’ai Chi Chih (Joy thru Movement Class). Need better balance, concerned about high blood pressure, quality sleep a challenge? Join class at VFW, 77 Christine Ave, Hamilton. For more information, additional locations, & to learn how to save on class fee, contact Siobhan at 609-752-1048.

THURSDAY Thick Up Thursday – Get a shake at Retro Fitness of Bordentown and receive an extra scoop of protein for free in any Retro Blend. Retro Fitness of Bordentown, 860 Rte 206, Bordentown. 609-372-4020.

A Christmas Carol – Tues-Thurs-7:30pm; Fri-8pm; Sat-3pm & 8pm; Sun-2pm & 7:30pm. Celebrate the season with McCarter’s critically-acclaimed production of Dickens’ classic masterpiece, A Christmas Carol. McCarter Theatre, Princeton. Cost $25-$75. 609-258-2787. Natural Pain Relief & Body Regeneration – Be beautiful this holiday season. All services discounted for the month of December. Call for details and appointment. Comprehensive Pain & Regenerative Center, 181 N Harrison St, Princeton. 609-588-0540.

balance, concerned about high blood pressure, quality sleep a challenge? Join class at Clare Estate Library, 201 Crosswicks St, Bordentown. For more information, additional locations, & to learn how to save on class fee, contact Siobhan at 609-752-1048.

4 Mom’s Networking Hour – 1-2pm. Weekly parenting topics with RWJ Hamilton experts and sharing with other moms. RWJ Hamilton Center for Health & Wellness, 1 Hamilton Health Place, Hamilton. 609-584-5900.

TUESDAY Two Punch Tuesday – Any Retro member can receive two punches on their punch card after purchasing a Retro Blend. Retro Fitness of Bordentown, 860 Rte 206, Bordentown. 609-372-4020. Lite Cardio + Toning – 5-6pm. $10 drop-in anytime. Winter Session starts January 6 - March 24, call for session rates. Gift certificates available. Motion Gymnastics, 55 Rte 31 S, Pennington. 609-730-9394. Discover the Serenity of T’ai Chih – 6:30pm. Discover the Serenity of T’ai Chi Chih (Joy thru Movement Class). Need better balance, concerned about high blood pressure, quality sleep a challenge? Join class at American Legion, 2 Meadowbrook Ln, New Egypt. For more information, additional locations, & to learn how to save on class fee, contact Siobhan at 609-752-1048. Zumba – 6:30-7:30pm. $10 drop-in anytime. Winter Session January 6 - March 24, call for session rates. Gift certificates available. Motion Gymnastics, 55 Rte 31 S, Pennington. 609-730-9394.

WEDNESDAY Meta Boost Wednesday – Get a shake at Retro Fitness of Bordentown and receive a free metabolic boost in any Retro Blend. Retro Fitness of Bordentown, 860 Rte 206, Bordentown. 609-372-4020. Discover the Serenity of T’ai Chih – 8:45am. Discover the Serenity of T’ai Chi Chih (Joy thru Movement Class). Need better balance, concerned about high blood pressure, quality sleep a challenge? Join class at Energy for Healing, 4446 Main St, Kingston. For more information, additional locations, & to learn how to save on class fee, contact Siobhan at 609-752-1048. Bright Beginnings – 10:30-11:30am. This informative, relaxed group is for parents and caregivers of infants. Each week focuses on a different topic of interest to new parents, and guest speakers are occasionally featured. Infants and children under 4 years of age are welcome to attend with the parent or caregiver. $5 payable at door. Princeton Fitness & Wellness Center, Princeton North Shopping Center, 1225 State Rd, Princeton. 609-683-7888. Discover the Serenity of T’ai Chih – 5:30pm. Starting October 15. Discover the Serenity of T’ai Chi Chih (Joy thru Movement Class). Need better

CPAP Workshop – 6pm. 3rd Thurs. Free workshop provided by the Sleep Care Center for patients with sleep disorders. A respiratory therapist will provide CPAP education, adjust CPAP pressures, refit masks and discuss the importance of CPAP/BiPAP usage. RWJ Hamilton Center for Health & Wellness, 1 Hamilton Health Place, Hamilton. 609-584-6681.

FRIDAY Breastfeeding Support Group – 11am-12pm. Expectant parents will learn about the benefits of breastfeeding, getting started, positioning, nutrition, pumping and avoiding common problems. Facilitated by Lactation Consultant. Free. PHC Community Education & Outreach Program, 731 Alexander Rd, Ste 3, Princeton. 888-897-8979. Men in Retirement – 2pm. 1st Friday. This social group for men meets and have regularly scheduled small group activities. Come and meet other men who are making or have made the transition into retirement. Suzanne Patterson Bldg, Princeton Senior Resource Center, 45 Stockton St, Princeton. 609-924-7108. Happy Friday – 4-8pm. Receive any Retro Blend for $3. Retro Fitness of Bordentown, 860 Rte 206, Bordentown. 609-372-4020.

SATURDAY Discover the Serenity of T’ai Chih – 9 and 11am. Discover the Serenity of T’ai Chi Chih (Joy thru Movement Class). Need better balance, concerned about high blood pressure, quality sleep a challenge? Join class at 9 in Newton or 11 in Langhorne, PA. For more information, additional locations, & to learn how to save on class fee, contact Siobhan at 609-752-1048. Santa’s Helper Walking Tour – 11am and 12:30pm. This family friendly, slow paced and picturesque strolling tour is designed for grandparents and parents with 4yr, 5yr & 6yr old children who are fascinated by All Things Santa. $5/family. Tour starts front of Mediterra Fountain in Palmer Square, 40 Hulfish St, Princeton. Princeton Tour Company, 855-743-1415.

natural awakenings

December 2014

Your Whole Business Benefits from Healthy Marketing

communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To be included, email Publisher@NAMercer.com or call 609-249-9044 to request our media kit.

ACUPUNCTURE AWARE ACUPUNCTURE

Diane L. Ailey, L.Ac. Dipl.Ac. 114 Straube Center Blvd, Ste K6-7 Pennington • 609-737-0970 AwareAcupuncture.com If you suffer from pain, digestive problems, arthritis, autoimmune disease, asthma, allergies, headaches/migraines, Bell’s palsy, fatigue, stress, anxiety, menstrual/menopausal symptoms and disorders, learn how acupuncture can help you. See ad, page 8.

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE DOROTA M. GRIBBIN, M.D.

181 N Harrison St, Princeton 2333 Whitehorse-Mercerville Rd, Mercerville 609-588-0540 DMGribbInMD.com Get the most out of your years naturally and without surgery. Specializing on natural pain relief and body regeneration, with exceptional patient care. See ad, page 43.

COLON THERAPY A WELLNESS WITHIN

3692 Nottingham Way, Hamilton 609-587-8919 WellnessWithinNJ.com Are you wondering what is colon hydrotherapy? Will it work for me? Contact us for the answers and to reduce gas and bloating, relieve constipation and promote regularity. Ask about our detox or weight loss programs. See ad, page 25.

EDUCATION/SCHOOLS WALDORF SCHOOL OF PRINCETON 1062 Cherry Hill Rd, Princeton 609-466-1970 x115 PrincetonWaldorf.org

The Waldorf curriculum,

Waldorf used in 1,000+ schools

School

worldwide, integrates arts, academics, movement, and music, emphasizing social and environmental responsibility. The hands-on approach is screen free. of Princeton

GREEN LIVING SUN 101 SOLAR

BODYWORK REIKI MASTER

Advertise in

Natural Awakenings’

January Health & Wellness Issue

Mrs. Donna Tomaszewski Hamilton/West Windsor Area 609-586-5409 by appointment ReikiPlace.org Discover the gentle positive energy that is Reiki to effectively relieve stress while experiencing profound feelings of relaxation, peace and wellbeing. One-hour session: $75.

SIOBHAN HUTCHINSON, MA

Holistic Health Practitioner 609-752-1048 NextStepStrategiesllc.com Siobhan@NextStepStrategiesllc.com

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

609-249-9044 40

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Enhance balance of Body/Mind/ Spirit through T’ai Chi Chih, Seijaku, Qigong, Reiki and Donna Eden Energy. Clients can choose classes or personalized one-onone sessions for deep relaxation and reducing the effects of stress. See ad, page 9.

Daniel Hicks 609-460-4637 Info@Sun101Solar.com Sun101Solar.com We are more than just a solar installer. We see ourselves as educators and stewards of the environment. We always do our best to educate about the benefits of going solar and being energy efficient. See ad page 23.

WE DO IT ALL

Home Improvements/Repairs 609-851-1753 WeDoItAll4U2@gmail.com We do it all while always offering green options. Repair, install, replace: doors, all types tiles, hardwood, carpeting, molding, pavers and decks. Powerwashing, painting, water proofing and finish basements, kitchen and bath remodeling. No job too big or small.

HOLISTIC DENTISTS PRINCETON CENTER FOR DENTAL AESTHETICS Dr. Ruxandra Balescu, DMD Dr. Kirk Huckel, DMD, FAGD 11 Chambers St, Princeton 609-924-1414 PrincetonDentist.com

We offer a unique approach to the health care of the mouth based on a holistic understanding of the whole body. Please contact us to learn how we can serve your needs. See ad, page 7.

HYPNOSIS PRISM HYPNOSIS Dr. Ira Weiner 609-235-9030 PrismHypnosis.com

Do you smoke, feel stressed or in pain, crack under pressure, or want to break unhealthy habits? Contact us and visit our website for healthful solutions that work. See ad, page 6.

ORGANIC FARMS CHERRY GROVE FARM

3200 Lawrenceville Rd, Lawrenceville 609-219-0053 CherryGroveFarm.com Organic and natural products including farmstead cheeses; Buttercup Brie, seasonal Jacks, Rosedale, Herdsman, Toma, Havilah and Cheddar Curds. Additional products include whey-fed pork, grass-fed lamb and beef, pasture-raised eggs and myriad locally sourced goods. See ad, page 25.

CLICK!

REGENERATIVE MEDICINE EDWARD MAGAZINER, M.D.

2186 Rte 27, Ste 2D, North Brunswick 877-817-3273 DrEMagaziner.com Dr. Magaziner has dedicated his career to helping people with pain and musculoskeletal injuries using state-of-the-art and innovative pain management treatments including Platelet Rich Plasma, Stem Cell Therapy and Prolotherapy to alleviate these problems. See ad, page 2.

NATURAL SERVICES BLACK FOREST ACRES

Trudy Ringwald Country Herbalist & Certified Reboundologist 553 Rte 130 N, East Windsor 1100 Rte 33, Hamilton 609-448-4885/609-586-6187 BlackForestAcres.Net Two locations for the natural connection to live well and eat right. Natural and organic foods, vitamins, supplements, groceries and most important, free consultation.

NUTRITION NUTRITIONAL CONSULTANT Claire Gutierrez 194 N Harrison St, Princeton 609-799-3089 Claire@VisanoConsulting.com VisanoConsulting.com

Let me help analyze your current diet thru nutritional assessment and assist you in making necessary adjustments and modifications to eventually achieve optimal health.

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December 2014

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Non-Invasive Pain Treatment: No Surgery, No Cortisone by Dorota M. Gribbin, MD

“P

ain is a symptom,” says Dorota M. Gribbin, M.D., Assistant Clinical Professor at Columbia University – College of Physicians and Surgeons, Chairman of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation section at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital at Hamilton and Medical Director of Comprehensive Pain and Regenerative Center. “In order to manage pain effectively, it is essential to pinpoint its cause.” She is named one of the best doctors in the New York Metro Area by Castle Connolly Medical Ltd. for 14 consecutive years between 1999 and 2013.

REGENERATE rather than Replace Regenerate rather than replace your joints, tendons, muscles, skin, and wounds with Regenerative Injection Therapy with Growth Factors in Platelets Rich Plasma (PRP) and Kinines in Platelets Poor Plasma (PPP). PRP therapy strengthens and heals arthritic and strained joints, tendons, ligaments, muscles, and skin — including non healing wounds and aging skin of your face. PRP injections can be performed all over the body. It is a natural regenerative method of treatment of sports injuries, arthritic joints, lower back pain, disc disease, tennis elbow, carpal tunnel syndrome, ACL and meniscal tears, shin splints, rotator cuff tears, plantar fasciitis, iliotibial band syndrome, piriformis syndrome, tennis/golfer’s elbow, sprained/torn muscles, and aging skin.

How does PRP Therapy work? To prepare PRP, a small amount of blood is taken from the patient. The blood is then placed in a centrifuge. The centrifuge spins and automatically produces the PRP. The entire process takes less than 15 minutes and increases the concentration of platelets and growth factors up to 500 percent. When PRP is injected into the damaged area it stimulates

the tendon or ligament, causing mild inflammation that triggers the healing cascade. As a result new collagen begins to develop. As this collagen matures it begins to shrink causing the tightening and strengthening of the tendons or ligaments of the damaged area. The initial consultation with the doctor will determine if PRP/PPP therapy is right for you.

RADIOFREQUENCY: A Revolutionary Modality in the Treatment of Painful Conditions and in Body Regeneration & Rejuvenation Surgery should be the last resort. Most painful conditions are treated conservatively with a nonsurgical approach. In addition to medications, physical modalities (ultrasound, TENS, massage, exercise) and injection techniques RADIOFREQUENCY is a revolutionary technology which incapacitates the conduction of pain and also treats cellulite, tightens the subcutaneous tissue and erases scars and wrinkles. Traditionally, therapeutic injections have involved injecting an anti-inflammatory agent, usually corticosteroids. Good news: not necessarily anymore! Radiofrequency ablation of the median branch sensory nerve “turns off” a small nerve which conducts pain. It is used for effective treatment of pain with long lasting results. The outcomes are amazing: years of pain relief, lowering or eliminating the need for pain medications.

See What People Are Raving About Age Defense: Regenerating Serum Retinol Eye Cream Morning Glow Moisturizing Sun Screen Elite Sunscreen

Body Care: Exfoliator Tone Zone

Complexion Care: Bright Light Bright Light Lotion

Aesthetic Medicine Her aesthetic medicine treatment options include treatment for the reduction of cellulite, fatty tissue, and skin tightening of the face, neck, abdomen, buttocks, hips and thighs. This treatment is achieved through a non-surgical liposuction and body sculpting procedure using the same radio frequency energy, but different instruments as mentioned previously.

Acne Care: Acne Tx Cleanser Acne Tx Toner Pads Acne TX Night Spots Acne TX Dew Cream

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December 2014

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