Natural Awakenings Mercer NJ January 2017 by Natural Awakenings Mercer

H E A L T H Y

L I V I N G

FREE

Weight-Loss

H E A L T H Y

P L A N E T

feel good • live simply • laugh more

Kettlebell Naturally

SABOTEURS Cross-Training LUMINOUS Tackling Obesity’s Hidden Causes

Fast, Fat Burning, Full Body Workouts

Tips for Healthy Skin that Glows

January 2017 | Greater Mercer County, NJ | NAMercer.com natural awakenings

January 2017

contents 12

6 newsbriefs 12 healthbriefs

14 globalbriefs

17 ecotip 21 naturalpet

22 healingways 28 healthykids 30 consciouseating

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.

18 WEIGHT-LOSS SABOTEURS

Tackling Obesity’s Hidden Causes by Lisa Marshall

21 FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE 18 FOR PETS Why the Best Vets Use It

32 fitbody

by Shawn Messonnier

34 business spotlight

COMPLEMENTARY CARE

36 greenliving

37 wisewords 38 calendar

22 AFFORDABLE

Alternatives to Insurance Cost Less

by Meredith Montgomery

26 CHELATION THERAPY HOLDS THE KEY

to Balancing the Body and Fighting Disease

advertising & submissions

28 THE WILD AND WOOLY

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.

What Kids Need from Us to Grow Wise

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: Publisher@NAMercer.com. Deadline for editorial: the 10th of the month. CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Email Calendar Events to: Calendar@NAMercer.com or fax to 609-249-9044. Deadline for calendar: the 10th of the month. REGIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-449-8309. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

NAMercer.com 4 4

Greater Mercer Mercer County, County, NJ NJ NAMercer.com NAMercer.com Greater

TEEN BRAIN by April Thompson

30 THE DARK SIDE OF

GLUTEN-FREE LIVING

Most People Benefit from Gluten by Judith Fertig

32 BODY SCULPT

WITH KETTLEBELLS Workouts Burn Fat and Tone Muscle by Taylor Geiger

36 HOLISTIC DERMATOLOGY 36 Inner Health, Radiant Skin by Linda Sechrist

37 TRY HYPNOSIS TO KEEP NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS by Iris Bleu

letterfrompublisher

nother new year is here. What will this year look like for you? Rather than making resolutions to stop behavior or making a contract with yourself to exercise more, perhaps we should imagine what our year will look like if we had a magic wand and could create any scenario we like. Ask yourself how you would feel in this imagined scenario? Are you happy? Are you content and satisfied? What are you doing? Who are you doing it with? Are you travel-

ing? Are you exploring new interests? I have given up on resolutions that are attached to judgements or strong commitments. They don’t serve me. I will finally go to the gym faithfully three times a week; Brush my teeth four times a day with flossing every time, I will pass up that sweet when it is sitting in front of me, I will always wash off my makeup before going to bed every night….and so on, and so on. I think making a plan to be happier is the only way to go. Someone once shared a post with me that said, “Don’t live the same year 75 times and call it life.” These are Powerful words. What will be different this year for you? Share your plans, ideas and dream with us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and help other to make a difference in their lives, too. Our theme this month is Health and Wellness, so most of our stories about just that: doing things that serve us better and with a better attitude. Remember when you were a kid and probably hated broccoli, but now you love it? Don’t give up on anything because you haven’t done it in a while or didn’t’ like it the first time. Take a chance and ask yourself—what’s the worst thing that can happen? Live big and be happy.

Managing Editor Dave Beveridge

Proofreader Randy Kambic

Design & Production Jason Cross Stephen Blancett

Franchise Sales 239-530-1377

Have a Blessed and Happy New Year! Phone: 609-249-9044 Fax: 609-249-9044 NAMercer.com Publisher@NAMercer.com

Lori Beveridge, Owner/Publisher

© 2017 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.

/NaturalAwakeningsMercerCounty

@NaturalMercer

Our Digital Version is Available Each Month Online At: NAMercer.com

We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available by sending $25 (for 12 issues) to the publisher. Call for details. Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soy-based ink.

natural awakenings

January 2017

newsbriefs Fresh Produce During the Winter Months Available in West Windsor Do you have a special event in the community? Open a new office? Move? Recently become certified in a new modality?

fter 13 successful years hosting the outdoor farmers’ market on Vaughn Drive, the West Windsor Community Farmers’ Market will continue to host indoor farmers’ markets on the first Saturday of each month at the Windsor Athletic Club in West Windsor. The winter markets continue the WWCFM mission of connecting farmers directly with consumer around locally grown and raised food along with artisan products in an inviting community atmosphere. Patrons will enjoy a wide variety of greens, salad mix, root vegetables, mushrooms, jams, sauces, pastured meats and poultry, fresh seafood, artisan cheese, farm fresh eggs, tea, soap, honey, wine, orchids, fresh pasta, bread, granola, baked goods, and much more. Many outdoor season farms and vendors will be featured such as North Slope Farm, Terhune Orchards, Cherry Grove Farm and Griggstown Farm, along with long-time farmer and vendor friends of the West Windsor Farmers’ Market such as Bobolink Dairy and Bakehouse, Chickadee Creek Farm and Jams by Kim. Location: Windsor Athletic Club, 99 Clarksville Rd., West Windsor. Remaining indoor market dates are Jan. 7, Feb. 4, Mar. 12 and Apr. 9 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. For a complete roster of farms and vendors, call market manager Chris Cirkus at 609933-4452, visit WestWindsorFarmersMarket.org or the West Windsor Community Farmers Market Facebook page.

Grand Opening for Princeton Integrative Health

News Briefs We welcome news items relevant to the subject matter of our magazine. We also welcome any suggestions you may have for a news item. Contact us for guidelines so we can assist you throughout the process. We’re here to help!

609-249-9044

Publisher@NAMercer.com 6

Greater Mercer County, NJ

rinceton Integrative Health (PIH) is a new, family-owned and -run integrative health/medicine practice, located at 134 Franklin Corner Road, Suite 101B, in Lawrenceville. A grand opening event will be held at 5 p.m. on January 23 but PIH is accepting new patients beginning now. Leveraging their extensive training and experience in both conventional and functional medicine to uncover the root cause of disease and dysfunction, identify true healing opportunities and co-create health with their patients, the ownership team of Jenna Richardson, clinical director, and her father Dr. Vincent Leoni, is focused on turning the country’s current sick care system into one of true health care and, ultimately, self-care, through education, empowerment and encouragement. Richardson says, “PIH takes a unique and customized approach to care that combines conventional and functional medicine, providing an integrative, holistic, patient-focused perspective and personalized programs and protocols to prevent and restore optimal health. Professional, supportive, patient-centric approach to personalized care to address the specific needs, goals and challenges of their patients. Programs providing education and support to prevent and reverse disease and dysfunction and to achieve optimal health.” For more information, call 609-512-1468 or email Jenna@PrincetonIH.com. See ad on page 13. NAMercer.com

NovaMentis Retreat Coming in March

NJ’S MOST SUCCESSFUL PROGRAMS WITH OVER 27 YEARS OF PROVEN SUCCESS!

KEEPING KEEP

YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS! Private Sessions Available Via Skype

NJ’S MOST SUCCESSFUL

ovadynamix LLC, specializing in leadership and personal development for more than 17 years, is hosting a NovaMentis retreat from March 10 to 12 at the Country Place Retreat Centre, in White Haven, Pennsylvania. NovaMentis, which is Latin for “new mind,” is a life changing and personal transformational experience. Tracy Nelson, president of Novadynamix, says, “Our life’s journey in today’s complex world offers more challenges and opportunities than ever before. Adapting to change is a necessary and predictable part of that path. Yet few of us have learned how to navigate such transitions with ease, designing new chapters that are aligned with our sense of purpose at work and at home.” Nelson continues, “We want to help people take the next step in their lives, to gain new insights, answer some big life questions, gain inspiration and know that if we can focus on what’s most important for our personal journey in life then incredible things can and will happen.” The retreat is designed to be highly interactive and experiential. People will be working as small teams or individually, receiving and providing considerable support and feedback. Assessment tools will help identify behavioral traits, personal gifts/skills and personality drivers, communication styles and preferences. Participants will get away from technology and get to know themselves in a way they may have never experienced before. During free time attendees can walk, hike and admire beautiful sunsets and sunrises, read, sleep, journal, chat with old or new friends or enjoy a complimentary massage. Novadynamix has been helping people to link and deepen their sense of purpose with a clear and meaningful path forward that’s inspiring, actionable and meaningful with highly experienced and certified coaches. Their span is global with development programs in the U.S. and 65 other countries. Cost: $1,100. Location: 45 Country Place Lane. Retreat fee includes two nights’ accommodations, all workshops and group and individual coaching, and a complimentary massage. Space is limited so register early. For more information or to register, call Tracy Nelson or Heather Stanton at 973580-6131 / 973-252-4133, email NovaMentisRetreat@gmail. com or visit Novadynamix.com. See ad on page 44.

• STRESS • WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAMS WITH OVER 30 YEARS • SMOKING • SELF-ESTEEM OF PROVEN SUCCESS! • INSOMNIA • FEAR/ANXIETY • CONFIDENCE • PUBLIC SPEAKING • PUBLIC SPEAKING • STUDY HABITS • PANIC ATTACKS • STRESS • PANIC ATTACKS • SALES MOTIVATION • TEST TAKING Private and group counseling. • STUDY HABITS • WEIGHT LOSS Corporate programs available. • SPORTS IMPROVEMENT • SALES MOTIVATION • SMOKING • TEST TAKING • BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION • SELF-ESTEEM • SPORTS IMPROVEMENT • MIGRAINE HEADACHES • INSOMNIA

• BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION • FEAR/ANXIETY www.hypnosisnj.com • MIGRAINE HEADACHES • CONFIDENCE

908-996-3311 www.hypnosisnj.com

908-303-7767

New Offices In King of Prussia & Ft. Myers,FL

Keep Y

Many of u Most of u most non to make t problem i power. Ho term hab That’s wh fective too

Eliminate Outrageo satisfying tain it for diets, dan foods. Th and the d approved

Stop smo swings. S and most have learn your life f

The Hypn perience i cessfully c in Flemin field. It o The type needs and

The Hypn successful smoking Schools t programs find out m Wolfson a hypnosisn

28 Mine Street, Flemington | 34 Bridge Street, Frenchtown | 43 Tamarack Circle, 43 Tamarack Circle, Princeton * 28 Mine Street, Flemington * 2 E. Northfield Rd #5, Livingston

Tired of Drugs? BUILD & BOOST

Your IMMUNE SYSTEM Try Nutritional IV Therapies Proven & Safe Treatments to Improve Circulation, Cell Health and Avoid Surgery Call today for a free consultation

609-508-1816

Integrative Center for Alternative Medicine LLC 10 Reeves Ave, Hamilton, NJ Dr. M.S. Choudhry, MD,PHD,DPH DR. Mihajlo Radic, NMD natural awakenings

January 2017

PrismHypnosis.com

newsbriefs Learn How to Tap

609-235-9030 Solutions for Healthy Living

Health is the greatest gift, contentment the greatest wealth, faithfulness the best relationship. ~Buddha

here’s a new method gaining attention in the field of psychology. You may not have heard about it, but for the last 30 years, therapists and lay people in the personal growth community have been using a simple mind/body tapping technique that combines acupressure point stimulation with talk therapy. It’s called Emotional Freedom Techniques, EFT or just “tapping”. The results have been impressive. The news has spread and now a quick Google search brings hundreds of thousands of hits. People all over the world are tapping. Besides being fast and effective, tapping is gentle and safe and easy to learn. It works on all kinds of emotional and physical pain, simple to serious. The best way to learn is with an experienced practitioner. Private sessions and trainings are highly recommended—but once you’ve done it enough times you have a selfhelp tool that you can pull out and use when needed. Carol Bemmels, M.Ed., has been practicing EFT for 18 years and is certified at the expert level. She’ll conduct a free public lecture at 7 p.m. on January 25 at the Hightstown Public Memorial Library. Bemmels is also hosting a five-hour training workshop in Pennington from noon to 5 p.m. on January 15. Workshop cost: $50/person. Locations: Pennington location disclosed after registering. Free public lecture location: 114 Franklin St., Hightstown. For more information or to register, call 609-306-1711, email CBemmels@mac.com or visit EFT4AllofUs.com. See ad on page 17.

Consider Rolf Massage for People or Pets

R How people treat

you is their karma; how you react is yours. ~Wayne Dyer

olf Method Massage is a deep tissue therapy session focusing on the body’s fascia. Benefits include freedom of movement, increased range of motion and pain management as well as better health, balance and posture. The Rolf Method is ideal for neck, back and shoulder pain, especially rotator cuff pain. Carpal tunnel syndrome and tennis elbow can also be managed with this method. Headaches, repetitive strains, sciatic and general everyday aches and pains can be reduced or eliminated. Ewing Structural Bodywork & Massage also provides this method of therapy for your canine friends. Beth Verbeyst, board-certified Rolf Method Practitioner, comments, “Animals respond well to deep tissue therapy and obtain the same results as people do. For the month of January, Ewing Structural Bodywork & Massage is offering a discount of $10 for a Rolfing session.” Booking by appointment only. Call 609-731-9576, email Beth.Verbeyst@yahoo. com or visit EwingStructuralBodywork.com. Mention Natural Awakenings Mercer when booking to confirm January discount. See ad on page 39.

Greater Mercer County, NJ

NAMercer.com

PRN-159 Offers advanced an advanced electromedical treatment that reduces or eliminates symptoms for 87% of patients. Help your body heal in the most natural way possible, without drugs or surgery. “I have Happy Feet!!! Finally after 16 years I found a treatment that works. I have been coping with neuropathy as a result of Chemotherapy. After my first treatment I left the office noticing a slight difference, but saying to myself “that’s not possible”. But it was! I had suffered with neuropathy for so long that I had accepted the discomfort as a way of life for me. When I began to concentrate on what was happening in my feet, the realization allowed me to know that the treatment was indeed working. The tingling and numbness are now gone.” -M. Hatcher

(609) 644-5520

134 Franklin Corner Rd., Suite 106, Lawrence Twp., NJ 08648 www.neurogenx.com/princeton *87% reduction in symptoms is based on published medical studies. Offices following these protocols have seen similar results. Results may vary depending on age, condition, treatment compliance, genetics, diagnosis and other factors. Not all patients are candidates for treatment or are accepted for care.

Meet Your Soul Mate on NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com Access many thousands of health-conscious, eco-minded, spiritual singles now and manifest an extraordinary, enlightened relationship!

Try for FREE now on www.NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com natural awakenings

January 2017

GIVE YOUR BUSINESS AN ENERGY BOOST

by advertising in

Natural Awakenings Each & Every Issue

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

609-249-9044 10

Greater Mercer County, NJ

newsbriefs Be Well Program Available in Pennington for the New Year

ndrzej Leszczynski, master practitioner and founder of Healing Touch Healing Movement at Integrated Fitness, in Pennington, will help open a new perspective and understanding of health on biological, emotional and spiritual levels. It’ll be the opportunity to learn how the Be Well program works and is available for the new year. Leszczynski will offer personal meetings with individuals interested in entering a pathway to a healthier life through 45-minute introductory sessions on techniques and philosophy. The Be Well program includes learning techniques and applying them when needed thus improving comfort levels when the need arises. Participation starts with direct care provided by the practitioner and includes teaching on how to care for personal health issues independently through daily health care and maintenance. Leszczynski says, “Daily life challenges are slowing down and blocking your energy flow. This manifests in daily inconveniences like headaches, body aches and tension along with emotional ups and downs. These accumulate over time and could become a catalyst for illness.” The program works on eliminating stagnate and blocked energy flow and creates an opportunity to develop emotional strength and balance, relive acute and chronic health issues, and learn to protect oneself from future tension, physical ailments and emotional turmoil. Location: Healing Touch Healing Movement at Integrated Fitness, 215 N. Main St., Pennington. For more information including costs, call 609-742-3140, email MeetAndrzej@gmail.com or visit HealingTouchHealingMovement.com. See ad on page 13.

Welcome Winter Walk in Princeton

oin Stony Brook-Millstone Watershed Association Education Director Jeff Hoagland to explore the winter wonders of the natural in a morning walk from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. on January 7 at the Mountain Lakes Preserve, in Princeton. Discover the unique survival strategies of local plants and animals from milkweed to meadow vole and red oak to robin. Learn where animals store food and how they survive the season’s relentless chill. Enjoy the fun of the Hibernation Game. Dress warmly, boots are recommended and bring your sense of wonder. The walk does not meet at the Watershed Reserve. Cost: Free for adults and children 5 years and older. Location: Mountain Lakes Preserve, 57 Mountain Ave., Princeton. Pre-registration required. For more information, call 609-737-7592 or visit TheWatershed.org. NAMercer.com

A Few Drops Can Change Your Life! You could feel better, lose weight or increase energy and mental clarity with a few drops of Natural Awakenings DETOXIFIED IODINE daily when used as directed. The supplementation of iodine, an essential component of the thyroid, has been reported to give relief from depression, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, radiation, viruses and more.

IT JUST KEEPS GETTING BETTER! Natural Awakenings’ healthy living, healthy planet lifestyle app has a new look and more features. Updated Monthly Content National Directory Local Magazines Article Archives En Español Link to Website Join Our Mailing List It’s FREE!

$19.99 plus $5 shipping • 1 btl. = 6-8 week suply Order online today at

ShopNaturalAwakenings.com or call: 888-822-0246

Like us on Facebook at Natural Awakenings Webstore

Search “Natural Awakenings” and download

FITNESS STUDIOS BORDENTOWN

YOGA CERTIFICATIONS

Bordentown Retro Fitness 860 US Hwy 206 S 609-372-4020

SUP Yoga PaddleboardAdventures.net

QI GONG PENNINGTON

SUP Yoga PaddleboardAdventures.net

Healing Touch Healing Movements Solutions Andrzej Leszczynski, master practitioner 609-742-3140 HealingTouchHealing Movement.com

TAI CHI HAMILTON Next Step Strategies LLC 77 Christine Ave (VFW) 609-752-1048 NextStepStrategiesllc.com *(Additional locations Bordentown, Monroe, Kingston & Bucks County)

natural awakenings NETWORK

YOGA VACATIONS

YOGA HAMILTON Bambu Yoga 3257 Quakerbridge Rd 609-337-2288 BambuYoga.com MONMOUTH JUNCTION Princeton Integral Yoga Institute 613 Ridge Road Ste. 110 732-274-2410 IYIPrinceton.org

Advertise your Yoga, Fitness or Pilates business on this page for only $20 a month! Call 609-249-9044 or email Publisher@NAMercer.com for details. natural awakenings

January 2017

and

watch

your

business

grow

healthbriefs

Autism Risk Linked to Banned Chemicals

study from Drexel University, in Philadelphia, has linked autism spectrum disorder with prenatal exposure to organochlorine chemicals. The researchers examined 1,144 children born in southern California between 2000 and 2003 with mothers that had enrolled in a state-sponsored prenatal screening program. Blood tests were taken during their second trimester of pregnancy, a critical time for neurodevelopment, to measure exposure to organochlorine chemicals, including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) and pesticides such as DDT. These compounds were banned from production in the U.S. in 1977, but remain in the environment. It’s well known that they can cross the placental barrier, impacting neurodevelopment in fetuses. The researchers selected participants based on previous health diagnoses: 545 children with autism spectrum disorder and 181 with intellectual disabilities, plus 418 free of both issues as a control group. They found a 50 to 82 percent increased autism risk in children with the highest levels of four identified PCB compounds in utero, based on which ones were present. “The results suggest that prenatal exposure to these chemicals above a certain level may influence neurodevelopment in adverse ways,” says Kristen Lyall, Sc.D., assistant professor in the university’s A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, promising further related studies.

Billion Photos/Shutterstock.com

ADVERTISE HERE

Ayurvedic Program Improves Blood Chemistry

publisher@NAMercer.com 609-249-9044 12

Greater Mercer County, NJ

clinical trial from the University of California-San Diego School of Medicine found that participants in a six-day, ayurvedic-based, well-being program showed metabolic improvements in blood tests for inflammation, cardiovascular disease risk (CDR) and cholesterol levels. Study participants consisted of 119 healthy men and women between the ages of 30 and 80. Sixty-five experienced a panchakarma program, a detox and rejuvenation protocol involving a vegetarian diet, meditation, yoga, massage, herbal therapy and other healing therapies. The other 54 served as a control group. Blood was analyzed before and after the test period. The researchers, led by Dr. Deepak Chopra, found measurable decreases in 12 phosphatidycholines (cell-membrane chemicals) associated with cholesterol, inflammation, CDR and Type 2 diabetes risk. They acknowledge that due to the short duration of the trial, the immediate changes were likely attributable to the vegetarian diet; more research is needed to determine the complementary role of the other therapies. “It appears that a one-week panchakarma program can significantly alter the metabolic profile of the person undergoing it,” remarks Chopra.

NAMercer.com

pittawut/Shutterstock.com

Exercise in Midlife Helps Preserve Mental Sharpness

Your Health. Your Life. In Balance.

Princeton Integrative Health Now Accepting Patients

Early-to-Bed Kids at Less Risk of Obesity

esearch from the Ohio State University College of Public Health, in Columbus, suggests that the risk of childhood obesity, a growing concern in the U.S., can be reduced by putting children to bed before 8 p.m. The researchers examined reports from mothers of 977 4-and-a-half-year-old children born in 1991 regarding their typical weekday bedtimes. The answers were divided into three categories: 8 p.m. or earlier, between 8 and 9 p.m. and later. Responses were compared to the obesity levels of the same children at an average age of 15. Of the group with the earliest bedtime, comprising about 25 percent of the subjects, only one in 10 were obese, compared to 16 percent of those with childhood bedtimes between 8 and 9 p.m., representing 50 percent of the subjects. The youngsters that went to bed the latest reported a 23 percent obesity rate, the highest overall. Dr. Meena Khan, a sleep medicine specialist at the university’s Wexner Medical Study Center, comments about the challenge of maintaining proper bedtimes: “Kids do well with a schedule and a routine.”

Parents Use Complementary Health Care for Kids

Princeton Integrative Health offers a personalized approach to care that focuses on the whole person. • Integrative Medicine • Nutrition Counseling • Behavioral Health For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 609.512.1468.

Yuriy Chertok/Shutterstock.com

pixelheadphoto digitalskillet/Shutterstock.com

study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease in July confirms that physical activity in midlife can help reduce the chances of developing cognitive impairment in old age. Scientists studied data on the physical activity levels from 3,050 twins in Finland given questionnaires in 1975 and 1981. A phone interview more than 25 years later served as a follow-up cognitive evaluation, and the subjects were divided into three categories: cognitively impaired, suffering mild cognitive impairment or cognitively healthy. Individuals that participated in vigorous physical activity when they were middle-aged displayed lower levels of cognitive impairment compared to those that did less vigorous exercise.

134 Franklin Corner Road Suite 101B Lawrenceville, NJ 08648

Sleep Workshop

Thursday January 26, 2017 from 5:30 till 7:30pm $35 pre register by Jan 24th or $45 at the door

This workshop will provide a Holistic to wellness through proper sleep and rest, creating more happiness and prosperity. Include in the workshop: a health talk, and Kundalini Yoga based meditations and breath work from the teachings of Yogi Bhajan.

Africa Studio/Shutterstock.com

he 2012 National Health Interview Survey, published in 2015, included a survey on the use of complementary medicine practices. Nearly 45,000 Americans were questioned, including more than 10,000 children between the ages of 4 and 17. The survey found that nearly 12 percent of children had used complementary medicine, either in a practice or product, during the year studied. The most common form of alternative medicine among children was natural supplements, such as fish oil, probiotics and melatonin. Chiropractic care and yoga were also popular choices. Researchers found that parents sought complementary approaches most often for children due to back or neck pain, musculoskeletal conditions, colds, anxiety, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder or insomnia.

EVANS CHIROPRACTIC HEALTH &WELLNESS FROM WITHIN

Evans Chiropractic 3679 Nottingham Way, Hamilton NJ. 609-586-9199

Evanschiro.com

natural awakenings

January 2017

Conscious Dying Plus: Children’s Dental Health Our Readers Are Seeking Providers & Services for Estate Planning, Hospice, Eco-Burial Advice plus Holistic Dental Care & Pediatric Dentists

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

Reforesting India

Massive Tree-Planting Against Climate Change Indian officials report that volunteers planted more than 49 million trees on a single day in 2016, surpassing the 2013 world record of 850,000 in Pakistan. An estimated 800,000 volunteers worked for 24 hours planting 80 species of saplings raised in local nurseries along roads, railways and other public land. The effort is part of the commitment India made at the Paris Climate Conference in December 2015. The country agreed to spend $6 billion to reforest 12 percent of its land and bring the total forest cover to 235 million acres by 2030, or about 29 percent of its territory. Trees sequester carbon dioxide from the air and reduce greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. India has experienced substantial loss of its forest cover in recent centuries as people cut down trees for firewood, pasture and development. Still, saplings need water and care and are susceptible to disease. Mortality rates can reach 40 percent after such massive tree plantings. Other countries are also replanting trees. Last December, African nations pledged to reforest 100 million hectares (386 square miles). A wide range of stakeholders from countries to companies also signed on to the non-binding New York Declaration of Forests that month, with the goal of halving deforestation by 2020 and ending it by 2030. szefei/Shutterstock.com

FEB

globalbriefs

Protecting Pollinators

Maryland Bans Bee-Killing Pesticides

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

609-249-9044 14

Greater Mercer County, NJ

StudioSmart/Shutterstock.com

Source: National Geographic

Maryland is the first state in the nation to pass strict restrictions on pesticides thought to be responsible for significant reductions in bee populations with enactment of its Pollinator Protection Act. Maryland lost more than 60 percent of its hives in 2015, each containing up to 20,000 honeybees, making it one of the states with the highest recorded declines. The national average is about 42 percent, yet across the country, farmers and gardeners are still using pesticides linked to colony collapse disorder. Globally, more than one-third of the world’s food supply could be a risk if these and other pollinators are lost. Neonicotinoids are one potent class of systemic pesticides introduced to agriculture in the 1990s that have been linked to bees’ demise. In recent years, pesticides such as Knockout Ready-to-Use Grub Killer, Ortho Bug B Gon, and AllIn-One Rose & Flower Care have been made available to consumers and beekeepers have noticed a corresponding increase in bee deaths. The Maryland law bans the use of neonicotinoids by everyday consumers that have been spraying home gardens and trees with these deadly pesticides. Farmers and professional gardeners are exempt from the law. A similar law is awaiting the governor’s signature in Connecticut. Although the U.S. Department of Agriculture has not officially recognized the well-researched link, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is reviewing it. Source: BeyondPesticides.org NAMercer.com

Website Screens Packaging for Toxin

JONGSUK/Shutterstock.com

Eat Safer

Although food manufacturers have pledged to voluntarily eliminate bisphenol A (BPA)—an endocrine disruptor linked to developmental problems in fetuses, infants and children—in their packaging materials, it’s still found in the lining of many canned goods. Recent testing by an advocacy group found BPA in 70 percent of nearly 200 samples, including products from Campbell and Kroger, which have joined the pledge. “It’s in beer, coffee, tea, energy drinks and aerosol cans for whipped cream... it’s everywhere,” says Samara Geller, a database and research analyst with the Environmental Working Group (EWG). According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, BPA is safe at the levels people are exposed to via canned foods, but many consumers would rather not take the risk. Consequently, EWG created a new tool to help consumers avoid the 16,000 products that may have BPA in their packaging. The numbers listed on package UPC codes can be compared against the database at Tinyurl.com/EWG-BPA-Look up. “Our main goal was to get this out quickly to as many people as possible,” says Geller. “The UPC code is really your best defense to finding out what they’re talking about,” because product names can change.

Lobster Liberation

Monks Free Creatures from Certain Doom NathaliaGuausPatricio/Shutterstock.com

A handful of monks from the Great Enlightenment Buddhist Institute Society living on Canada’s Prince Edward Island spent a day buying up all the live lobsters they could find at the local fish market, and then chartered a boat. Once out to sea, they recited a brief prayer over their writhing cargo and set them loose in the Atlantic. “The whole purpose for us is to cultivate this compassion toward others,” says one of the monks. “It doesn’t have to be lobsters, it can be worms, flies, any animals; it can also be driving slower, so we don’t run over little critters on the street.” One participant, Victoria Fan, says, “It’s rethinking the way you normally see these creatures. Their happiness is as important as your happiness, their suffering is as important as your suffering.” Source: TheDodo.com

Powerful, Natural Pain Relief!

with Natural Awakenings’ Topical Pain Relief Enjoy safe and effective relief from:

• Arthritis Pain • Stiff Joints • Cramps • Headaches • Knee, Neck & Back Pain • Inflammation & Swelling • Tired Sore Muscles

Its natural ingredients include:

• Certified Emu Oil • Aloe Vera • Herbs • Glucosamine & Condroitin • Vitamins/Antioxidants • Botanical Extracts • MSM Topical Pain Relief also helps to stimulate energy, detoxify and promote a healthier quality of life. 4-oz spray $19.99 — 8-oz spray $34.99 plus $5 shipping Order online today at

ShopNaturalAwakenings.com or call: 888-822-0246

Like us on Facebook at Natural Awakenings Webstore

natural awakenings

January 2017

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

Smog Begone

Airline Air

California Aims Even Higher on Emission Controls

Source: MSN.com

CLB Ad.qxp_Layout 2 9/6/15 10:11 PM Page 1

Recirculating Jet Air Linked to Illness Aerotoxic syndrome is the medical term for the illness caused by exposure to contaminated air in jet aircraft, and it’s causing that ailment, plus the permanent disability and even death of airline employees and passengers. Whistleblowers have been met with ridicule and termination. The problem has been called the “asbestos of the airline industry” by critics. French scientist Jean-Cristophe Balouet, Ph.D., who discovered the syndrome in 1999, thinks it may have already affected 250,000 pilots, cabin crew and passengers worldwide. In 1963, aircraft moved from drawing fresh air into the cabin to “bleeding” part of it from the engines. The synthetic oil used by jets contains organophosphates used in pesticides and nerve gas, and was banned by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for residential use in 2001 because of known toxicity. The byproducts of these carcinogenic organophosphates can also include aldehydes and carbon monoxide. Airplane seals wear out and there are no chemical sensors onboard aircraft to detect fumes—only noses to detect the “dirty sock” odor. The Aerotoxic Association continues to push for air quality detectors on all planes and the Cabin Air Quality Act sponsored by California Senator Dianne Feinstein. For more information, visit Aerotoxic.org. Matej Kastelic/Shutterstock.com

Allen.G/Shutterstock.com

California lawmakers have enacted a bill that aims to reduce the state’s greenhouse gas emissions to 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030. It extends previous efforts such as the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 instituted to reduce emissions by 2020, along with another piece of legislation that vows to boost legislative oversight of climate change programs organized by the California Air Resources Board. Supporters say that emissions rules have created new jobs and led to billions of dollars of investment in California’s clean energy sector. Opponents argue that the strict targets have caused some job losses, particularly in oil manufacturing. The state, having the world’s eighth-largest economy, has further announced a goal of fighting climate change and improving air quality by putting 1.5 million zero-emission state cars on the road by 2025.

The best way to find out if you can trust somebody is to trust them. ~Ernest Hemingway

DISCOVER YOUR SPIRITUAL CENTER Princeton

love . connec t . inspire The Center for Spiritual Living Princeton invites you to visit our community and to explore new possibilities for your life. Our center offers a practical spiritual teaching that draws on the wisdom of the ages and New Thought principles to promote spiritual awakening and personal growth. Join us for our Spiritual Transformation Service Sundays at 10:30 am • Princeton Masonic Lodge • 345 River Road • Princeton, NJ 08540 (1 mile from Route 27)

For more information, call 609.924.8422 or visit cslprinceton.org 16

Greater Mercer County, NJ

NAMercer.com

ecotip Making Feeders Safe for Wild Birds Feeding wild birds helps fuel them and provides viewing pleasure, yet a communal feeder may hold hidden risks, reports a recent study in Ecology Letters. In reviewing 20 published research papers on host/pathogen interactions in human-fed wild populations, researchers at the University of Georgia’s Odum School of Ecology, in Athens, found that intentional feeding changed their behavior and diet enough to foster potentially harmful growth of parasites and viruses. “Feeders can bring unexpected species and more birds together more frequently than normal, facilitating conditions for parasites and other contaminates,” says lead researcher Daniel Becker. Birds crowding into tight spaces to reach tasty morsels also makes it easier for pathogens like house finch eye disease and respiratory ailments to be passed among them. Maintain cleanliness. Stephen Kress, director of the National Audubon Society’s Project Puffin, advises that safe bird feeding includes completely scrubbing out feeders with a 10 percent non-chlorinated bleach solution at least a few times a year, and certainly between seasons. Be food-specific. While using bird seed mixtures to attract a wide range of species is cheaper, such food usually includes fillers like milo that most birds quickly pass through, making a mess under the feeder that can make birds sick. Kress suggests, “Buy specific seeds for specific feeders—like cracked corn and millet in one and only sunflowers in another. This decreases interactions between species that eat the different seeds and dramatically cuts waste.” Creative option. Try some peanut butter and other healthful ingredients, suggests Julie Craves, supervisor of avian research at the Rogue River Bird Observatory at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, in a recent edition of BirdWatching magazine. “It’s high in fat, protein and calories.” Avoid nut butter made with the artificial sweetener xylitol, as it can kill birds. She recommends mixing one part organic peanut butter with four or five parts plain, non-GMO (genetically modified) cornmeal and add oats and raisins. Plain or chunky works. “The dough can then be shaped into portions that will fit in suet feeders or logs, or just placed in feeding trays.”

Carol Bemmels M.Ed.

gracious_tiger/Shutterstock.com

Bird Buffet

NA Fun Facts: Natural Awakenings

is read nationwide by 3,880,000 people each month.

Natural Awakenings is published in over 90 U.S. markets.

Natural Awakenings

prints 1,552,000 magazines nationwide each month.

Natural Awakenings is read online by 144,000 viewers. each month.

To advertise with us call: 609-249-9044

Learn to tap for emotional and physical health Private sessions in Hopewell or by Skype – Public lectures and trainings

Free 20 minute phone consult to see if EFT is right for you

eft4allofus.com – cbemmels@mac.com – 609.306.1711 natural awakenings

January 2017

SABOTEURS Tackling Obesity’s Hidden Causes by Lisa Marshall

at less, move more. These words have been the cornerstone of diet advice for decades, leading millions of Americans to greet the new year with vows to cut calories and hit the gym. In all, one in five U.S. adults are dieting at any given time, according to the international market research firm The NPD Group, and 57 percent would like to lose 20 pounds or more. Yet few will reach that goal. One survey of 14,000 dieters published in the International Journal of Obesity found that only one in six had ever been able to lose 10 percent of their body weight and keep it off for a year. Another study, published in the last year in Obesity, followed up with 14 contestants from the 2009 TV reality show The Biggest Loser and found that despite efforts to keep their eating and exercise habits on track, 13 had regained significant weight since the competition. Four are heavier now than before participating on the show.

Greater Mercer County, NJ

Diet experts say the battle of the bulge has been exceedingly hard to win for one clear reason: We’re oversimplifying the solution and underestimating the saboteurs. “We’re learning that it’s not as simple as calories-in and calories-out,” says Dr. Pamela Wartian Smith, an Ann Arbor, Michigan, physician specializing in functional and nutritional medicine and author of Why You Can’t Lose Weight. Research reveals that everything from food allergies to hormone imbalances and disruptions in gut bacteria can subtly undermine the best-laid weight management plans. Working out too much or eating too little can also backfire. Even a mean boss or a cold workplace cubicle can factor in. Certainly, diet and exercise are key, experts emphasize. Yet, if we’re doing all the right things and still seeing disappointing numbers on the scale, there’s still more we can do. Here are some common weight-loss saboteurs and what to do about them.

NAMercer.com

Yuriy Rachenkov/Shutterstock.com

WEIGHT-LOSS

Bite into a food we’re sensitive to and our body switches into “fight-or-flight” mode. It stores fat and water, releases histamines that widen blood vessels and inflame tissue, and cranks out stress hormones like epinephrine and norepinephrine that make us want to eat more of that food. “You literally get a high so that you crave more,” says Smith. She notes that unlike true allergies, which can prompt an immediate reaction, food intolerances often manifest subtly over several days. When we are repeatedly exposed to a food we’re sensitive to, we feel bloated and sluggish, regardless of the calorie count. Allergy medications can also prompt weight gain, in part by boosting appetite. One study by Yale researchers found people that regularly ingested antihistamines like Zyrtec and Allegra were far more likely to be overweight than those not using them. What to do: First, cut out the most-craved foods. “If someone tells me they just cannot live without cheese, I assume they are allergic to it,” says Smith. Or, try an elimination diet. Ban common allergens like milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts and gluten (if possible, try sticking to only rice and lamb—two hypoallergenic foods— for four days). Then reintroduce other foods slowly and monitor the results. To combat seasonal allergies naturally, try vitamin C, quercetin and butterbur supplements.

Alan Poulson Photography/Shutterstock.com

Food Sensitivity/Allergy

Underperforming Thyroid

The thyroid serves as a key metabolism regulator, dictating how efficiently the heart beats and muscles contract, how quickly the body turns nutrients into energy, and how well we burn off stored fat. When thyroid hormone production falls, metabolism can also decrease by as much as 40 percent. Yet as many as four in 13 women suffer from a thyroid hormone deficiency, says Toronto naturopathic doctor Natasha Turner, author of the new book The Hormone Boost. “You can diet and exercise until you are blue in the face, but if your thyroid is out of balance, you won’t achieve the body you’re looking for,” she says. “It’s a common cause of weight gain.” What to do: Get tested for levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and, if possible, T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (triiodothyronine) also. TSH signals the thyroid to make more T4, the inactive form of thyroid hormone that is converted into T3, the form the body is able to use. Abnormal blood levels of any of these can impact metabolism adversely, and a TSH test alone may be unable to identify a problem, caution Smith and Turner. In some cases, medication may be required. Otherwise, move to embrace lifestyle habits that reduce stress levels, because the stress hormone cortisol can inhibit thyroid function. Get eight hours of sleep; sleep deprivation also impairs thyroid function. Eat lots of fiber, which helps the body eliminate excess estrogen and other thyroiddamaging metabolic byproducts. Also, stock up on foods containing tyrosine (almonds and avocadoes), and selenium (Brazil nuts). In some cases, if an iodine deficiency is at play, a doctor may suggest iodine supplements or iodine-rich foods like kelp and sea bass.

Imbalanced Gut

The trillions of microorganisms in our gut have a profound impact on our ability to maintain a healthy weight, says Dr. Raphael Kellman, a New York City physician

practicing functional medicine and author of The Microbiome Diet. “The gut bacteria are the gatekeepers of the calories that enter our body,” he explains. Research shows that certain species of bacteria aid in the metabolizing of carbohydrates, while others help break down fats and protein. Some turn on genes that fight inflammation; others influence how well the body responds to insulin. Diversity and balance of helpful bacteria species are keys to health. “If changes in the percentages of certain bacteria occur, the microbiome loses its ability to help us maintain a healthy weight,” says Kellman. In one landmark 21st-century study by University of Colorado researchers, swapping the gut bacteria of a skinny mouse with that of an obese one made the skinny mouse gain weight. What to do: Go easy on antibiotics, which can wipe out gut bacteria diversity. Load up on fermented foods like kim chi, sauerkraut, kefir and yogurt. Eat lots of inulin-containing plant fiber to give desirable bacteria something to chew on, and consider taking a probiotic supplement until weight loss and health goals are achieved.

Overdoing Diets

As The Biggest Loser contestants learned, losing too much weight too fast can bring metabolism to a screeching halt; the body, coaxed into starvation mode, moves to conserve fuel and store fat. “If you try to lose weight by drastically slashing calorie intake and going crazy on the cardio machines, you’ll do more harm than good,” says Turner. Performing intense cardiovascular exercise such as running, cycling or swimming for more than 45 minutes can make cortisol levels surge, accelerating muscle loss and impairing the

immune system. That’s counterproductive because muscles burn calories at rest, too. Consistent over-exercise can also prompt the stressed body to respond in a fight-or-flight fashion, storing more belly fat and leading to the “skinny but fat” body composition common among models and marathon runners, she says. Skipping meals can prompt the key thyroid hormone T3 to fall off too, further slowing metabolism. Plus, six weeks into a restrictive weight-loss program, levels of the feel-good hormones dopamine and serotonin also start to decline, killing motivation and fueling cravings. The result is a weight plateau or even weight gain. What to do: Unless walking, limit workouts to 40 minutes, advises Turner. Instead of slogging away at a steady pace on the treadmill, try intervals (short, high-intensity efforts separated by brief rest periods), which have been shown to boost both fat burning and cardiovascular fitness. For example: five-minute warm-up, one-minute run at fast pace, one-minute run at moderate pace, repeat 10 times, five-minute cool-down. Also, incorporate strength training into three workouts each week. Include some fat, protein and carbohydrates with every meal. If insisting on counting calories, shoot for 450 to 500 per meal and 150 per snack for women; 500 to 600 per meal and 200 to 300 per snack for men. Every week to 10 days, enjoy a carb-loaded “cheat meal” such as pancakes or pasta; it supports any languishing thyroid and feel-good hormones, gives associated neurotransmitters a jump-start and keeps us from feeling deprived.

Dark, Cold, Stressful Workplaces

Alan Hedge, Ph.D., a workplace design researcher with Cornell University, in New York, says women, who tend to have less muscle and body hair to provide natural warmth, are at particular risk of packing on pounds due to an overly cold environment. “When the body is cold, it adapts by laying down insulation, which is fat,” he says. Even without eating extra calories, if we’re constantly cold at work, as 31 percent of

natural awakenings

January 2017

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

Darkness cannot

drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that. ~Martin Luther King, Jr.

funnyangel/Shutterstock.com

women are according to a recent CareerBuilder survey, we tend to gain about a pound or two per year, says Hedge. Other research, conducted at Northwestern University, in Illinois, shows that workers exposed to more light in the morning weigh about 1.4 pounds less on average than those toiling in windowless cubicles. The suspected reason is that morning light triggers a cascade of hormones that positively impact appetite and metabolism. Another study, by Ohio State University researchers, found women that experienced a stressful event at work or elsewhere and then ate a fat- and calorie-laden meal the next day burned 100 fewer calories from that meal than non-stressed workers. What to do: At work, move the desk toward a window or at least take a walk every morning. Bring a space heater, extra sweater or hot tea fixings. After an ultra-stressful workday, eat especially healthfully that night.

Natural Slimming Supplements Ashwaghanda root: While research is scarce, this Indian herb is traditionally believed to reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol (which can boost belly fat storage). It’s also believed to boost conversion of the thyroid hormone T4 to the more metabolically active thyroid hormone T3. Doctor of Naturopathy Natasha Turner recommends 500 to 1,000 milligrams (mg) twice daily. Chromium: This mineral plays a key role in enhancing insulin’s action in the body. Numerous studies by U.S. Department of Agriculture researchers and others suggest that taking chromium supplements can stabilize blood sugar, potentially reducing the cravings and energy slumps that come with glucose spikes and dips. Research on chromium’s impact on body composition and weight has been mixed. Turner recommends 200 to 400 micrograms (mcg) daily. Curcumin: This golden spice, found in turmeric, curbs painful joint inflammation from over-exercising, and has been shown by Tufts University and Columbia University researchers to improve fat metabolism in mice. L-carnitine: Helps the body use fat for fuel more efficiently and also can be used as an energy booster before cardio or strength training. Dr. Pamela Wartian Smith recommends 500 to 1,000 mg daily. Omega-3 fatty acids: In addition to being potent anti-inflammatory agents, the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA have been associated with greater weight and fat loss when added to a diet and exercise program, according to studies in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition and the International Journal of Obesity. Prebiotics: These undigested fibers provide food for good gut bacteria to keep the digestive system and metabolism on track. Probiotics: These are generally believed to promote healthy gut bacteria so that the body metabolizes food more efficiently. One recent study in the British Journal of Nutrition followed 125 obese men and women throughout a 12-week diet, followed by a 12-week maintenance period, and found that the women taking probiotics containing the bacterial strain Lactobacillus rhamnosis lost significantly more weight during the diet than women that didn’t; plus, they continued to lose weight during the maintenance period. The men studied did not show similar results. Selenium: Selenium is critical for the conversion of inactive T4 to active T3 that the body can make use of. Smith recommends 100 to 200 mcg daily.

Greater Mercer County, NJ

NAMercer.com

naturalpet

health as a positive force well beyond the absence of disease. It’s possible for many pets to appear to be healthy while specialized, noninvasive testing shows underlying issues that must be addressed if illness is to be prevented. Conventional medicine either doesn’t offer such testing or ignores minor abnormalities, placing the pet at risk for developing serious and potentially irreversible problems.

Functional Medicine for Pets Why the Best Vets Use It

Integrative Approach

by Shawn Messonnier

Why Functional Medicine

The system of medicine practiced by most vets is geared toward acute care of a severe trauma or a climax in illness that necessitates urgent diagnosis and treatment. They typically apply specific, prescribed treatments such as drugs or perform surgery to treat the immediate problem or symptom. This approach works well for pets experiencing a crisis, but

isn’t appropriate for restoring health when animals have chronic disorders. It also doesn’t help them to at least live comfortably with incurable problems without the side effects often caused by extensive administration of medications. Conventional veterinary science lacks the proper tools for preventing and treating complex, chronic disease. In most cases, it doesn’t take into account an individual’s unique genetic makeup or exposure to toxins such as too many vaccines, drugs or environmental chemicals. Functional medicine always focuses on the unique nature of the patient; there is no “one treatment fits all” mentality. Functional medicine vets are specifically trained to assess the underlying causes of complex, chronic disease and to apply strategies such as nutrition, diet and naturopathic remedies to both treat and prevent these illnesses. They can ably help the increasing number of pets suffering from complex, chronic health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, allergies, arthritis, seizures, bowel and bladder problems and immune system disorders. Functional medicine best addresses these concerns because it involves understanding the origins, prevention and treatment of ailments and emphasizes customized care. The goal is to promote

Ermolaev Alexander/Shutterstock.com

any pet owners have chosen functional medicine for their own care, so they logically turn to it for their four-legged family members, as well. Most veterinarians are still unfamiliar with this approach to pet health care and may even discourage its use because they see it as being out of synch with conventional ideology. Functional medicine addresses the underlying causes of disease, using a systems-oriented approach and engaging patients and doctors in a partnership designed to improve health. This evolved practice better addresses individual needs than a traditional approach that focuses on illness and treating disease rather than restoring overall health. By shifting from an allopathic platform to a more holistic, patient-centered one, functional medicine addresses the whole pet, not just a set of symptoms.

An integrative, science-based healthcare approach considers interactions in the pet’s history, physiology and lifestyle that might lead to problems. All of the diagnostic and treatment modalities are based upon proven scientific principles and follow evidence-based medicine to yield the best results in terms of total function. Functional medicine integrates traditional Western medical practices with what are sometimes considered “holistic” or “complementary” healing methods. The focus is on prevention through nutrition, diet and exercise; use of the latest laboratory testing and other diagnostic techniques; and prescribed combinations of botanical medicines, supplements, therapeutic diets and detoxification programs, using drugs only when necessary as a last, rather than a first, resort. This whole-pet approach allows doctors to choose whichever therapies are best for each patient. Holistic vets see many patients for which conventional medicine has proven ineffective. Sometimes conventional doctors back away from offering treatment, either because the pet is “too old,” the treatment is “too expensive” or the results are unlikely to be “satisfactory.” Functional medicine can help many of these so-called hopeless cases, return pets to health and often heal disease after principles of functional medicine have been consistently applied to the pet’s everyday lifestyle. Finding a functional medicine vet is challenging, but worth the effort. Focusing on the individual needs of a pet ensures the optimum chance for achieving and sustaining proper health. Shawn Messonnier is a doctor of veterinary medicine practicing in Plano, TX, For more information, visit PetCareNaturally.

natural awakenings

January 2017

virtual appointments and educational classes, plus follow-ups and urgent care at minimal costs. The U.S. mainstream fee-for-service approach, whether paid by insurance or cash, has been criticized for encouraging unnecessary tests and procedures because doctors are paid for services performed. To maintain income, they typically shorten appointments to increase the number of patients they see. Lewis emphasizes, “Time is the valuable factor in DPC— healthy lifestyle changes, which can prevent or reverse 70 percent of health concerns, cannot be communicated in 10 minutes.”

Medical Cost-Sharing

AFFORDABLE Complementary Care

Alternatives to Insurance Cost Less by Meredith Montgomery

he latest National Health Interview Survey available, from 2012, shows an annual expenditure of $30.2 billion in out-of-pocket costs for complementary health approaches, benefiting 33 percent of adults and 12 percent of children, and representing about 10 percent of out-of-pocket U.S. healthcare costs. Insurance rarely covers complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in full. As provider networks shrink, premiums rise and the future of healthcare reform remains uncertain, health-conscious consumers yearn for innovative ways to afford this kind of care.

Membership-Based Care

When Dr. Chad Krisel worked at an urgent care center, he saw up to 55 patients a day. Since opening Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville (IntegrativeAsheville.org), in North Carolina, with Dr. Brian Lewis, he averages 12 patients a day. His team provides a membership-based practice in a payment model known as direct primary care (DPC). Endorsed by the American Academy of Family Physicians, DPC is broadly accessible. By applying simplicity, sustainability, quality and collaboration, their integrative practice provides comprehensive care for less than what many pay for phone service. “DPC removes traditional financial incentives and conflicts of interest because membership fees fund us. Our only incentive is to help and heal patients,” Krisel explains. Paying for memberships out-of-pocket (often electing high-deductible plans) or via a health-sharing plan, clients value coverage that includes annual wellness exams, phone or 22

Greater Mercer County, NJ

NAMercer.com

For generations, Christian communities have operated health care sharing ministries (HCSM) to collectively share the cost of each other’s medical bills as an alternative to outside insurance. Members are exempt from current Affordable Healthcare Act (ACA) mandates. Liberty HealthShare, a nonprofit HCSM chartered by the Mennonite church, believes that everyone has the right to practice religion as they see fit. Their members share a commitment to personal health and sharing in the burden of health expenses with others that have these values. “Many in the functional and integrative medical arenas also believe in these principles,” says Tom Blue, of Richmond, Virginia, a director with The Institute for Functional Medicine. “Cost sharing feels very familiar; you present your card to your provider, but there’s no set network of providers, which is favorable for those seeking more progressive forms of care.” Expanding upon this model, Blue worked with the company to create its Liberty Direct program (LibertyDirect.org). Individuals pay an annual membership fee plus a monthly share amount. After fulfilling their annual unshared amount of out-of-pocket expenses (similar to a deductible), participants’ healthcare costs—including approved naturopathic and alternative treatments—can be submitted as expenses to be shared by the group. Liberty Direct provides financial advantages to DPC practitioners and patients by subsidizing membership fees; it favors nutrition over chronic prescription dependence by reimbursing physician-prescribed nutritional supplement and pharmaceutical expenses under the same terms. Members must be in good health with a lifestyle that helps sustain wellness, including good nutrition, exercise and abstinence from tobacco use and drug and alcohol abuse. The program also accepts approximately 7 percent of applicants on provisional terms when pre-existing conditions such as hypertension, obesity and diabetes can be improved through lifestyle changes. They pay an extra fee per month to cover the cost of a health coach; when they achieve their goals, they become full members paying regular rates. “The economics are staggering,” says Blue, who used to pay $760 a month for insurance with a $12,400 deductible and now pays a monthly share of $449 with a family unshared amount of $1,500. HCSMs are affordable because of restricted overhead budgets. Plus, they appeal to natural-

Africa Studio/Shutterstock.com

healingways

health conscious clients and can decline unsuitable applicants. “This concept of communal cost sharing works—Liberty’s share amounts decreased in 2013 and have not changed since,” comments Blue.

GreenSurance

Told she was past medical hope, Kari Gray, of Kahului, Hawaii, sought to heal from cancer using natural medicine. “When thousands of dollars spent for natural protocols were denied reimbursement by my insurance company, I saw that the system needs to change,” Gray recalls. CAM therapies still deemed “unproven” by traditional insurance companies gave Gray a second chance at life. Following remission, she began a 20-year search for alternative medicine insurance. Finding none, in 2014, she created GreenSurance (MyGreenSurance.com). Serving people that proactively care for their health and prefer natural medicine as primary care, GreenSurance developed an evidence-based and science-backed list of 40-plus covered CAM modalities, including thermography, energy therapy, biofeedback, essential oils and homeopathy. It also covers conventional medical and emergency care. Enrollees of the member-owned organization are supplied third-party payer information for provider direct billing once the member’s out-of-pocket amount is met. They use any state-licensed provider and the program is often more affordable than traditional insurance. GreenSurance is currently investing resources to broaden consumer access to the tax advantages of a health spending account (HSA). H.R. 1752 would allow enrollees in any healthcare-sharing program to open an HSA. “Simply, we’re a co-op whose members empower us to create an exempt program that protects members from ACA penalties and traditional health insurance,” says Gray. “More, we’re a grassroots movement for change.” Krisel notes, “Doctors too, are livid about the current status of America’s healthcare system. Be vocal about what’s important to you. The more voices heard in Washington, the more change we’ll see.” Meredith Montgomery publishes Natural Awakenings of Gulf Coast Alabama/Mississippi (HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com).

Dentistry at its Best! Synchronizing Oral Health with Total Body Health

Practical Biological Dentistry for more than 30 years IAOMT Accredited

Your mouth is a vital part of your Total Body Health. We are dedicated to Protecting Your Health with:

• Clifford Material Reactivity Testing • Sleep Apnea Treatment • Safe Amalgam Removal Protocol Enhanced by Biological Support Program • Highest Quality Restorative Dentistry • Preserving Teeth and Gums for a Lifetime • Beautiful Smiles Achieved by Using the Finest Quality Materials • Nutritional Consulting

Kirk Huckel, DMD, FAGD Ruxandra Balescu, DMD Kiersten Huckel DMD

609-924-1414

PrincetonDentist.com New Patients Welcome 11 Chambers Street Princeton, NJ 08542 natural awakenings

January 2017

onventional insurance rules adversely affect Americans’ consideration of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). According to the 2012 National Health Interview Survey, acupuncture, chiropractic and massage therapy use increased over the prior decade, but only among those without insurance. For those with progressive policies, coverage for CAM approaches is usually only partial.

Know What a Policy Covers

Before using a complementary or integrative service, inquire about specifics: Sometimes preapproval or a referral is required to qualify; coverage may be limited to a certain network of practitioners; verify visit limits or the number required; and get details of out-of-pocket costs. Keep insurancerelated communications records, including notes on calls and copies of bills, claims and letters, to help with any claim disputes.

Explore Available Options

Ask the insurance provider about coverage of CAM approaches, including whether a rider or supplement to the standard plan is required to cover them. Inquire about discount programs, such as when members pay for fees and out-of-pocket costs, but at a lower rate. State insurance departments and

professional associations for complementary health specialties may know which insurance companies cover specific CAM approaches.

Ask Practitioners About Payments

When seeing a complementary or integrative practitioner, clarify payment and insurance details before the first visit. Learn the cost of initial and follow-up appointments; how many appointments are needed; additional costs such as for tests, supplements or equipment; and if they offer an incomebased sliding scale. Also confirm which insurance plans are accepted and if the patient or provider files claims. When insurance doesn’t cover a service, inquire about installment plans and discounts for cash payments. Jeanette Dietl/Shutterstock.com

Getting to ‘Yes’ with an Insurer

Save with Tax-Exempt Accounts

Flexible spending accounts offered by some employers allow participants to set aside pretax dollars for health-related expenses. Health savings accounts can be established by individuals with high-deductible health plans to save for medical expenses. Contributions are tax-deductible and interest is tax-free. Source: National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health

Find The Perfect Partner

on NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com Access many thousands of health-conscious, eco-minded, spiritual singles now and manifest an extraordinary, enlightened relationship!

Try for FREE now on www.NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com 24

Greater Mercer County, NJ

NAMercer.com

Turn Your Passion Into a Business

Own a Natural Awakenings Magazine Our publishers ranked us among the highest in franchise satisfaction for our Training, Support, Core Values and Integrity!*

As a Natural Awakenings publisher, you can empower yourself and others to create a healthier world while working from your home earning an income doing something you love!

No publishing experience is necessary. You’ll work for yourself but not by yourself. We offer a complete training and support system that allows you to successfully publish your own magazine.

• Meaningful New Career • Low Initial Investment • Proven Business System • Home-Based Business • Exceptional Franchise Support & Training

Natural Awakenings publishes in over 85 markets across the U.S., Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic (listed below).

Contact us about acquiring an existing publication FOR SALE highlighted in RED or starting a magazine in an open territory. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Huntsville, AL Gulf Coast AL/MS Phoenix, AZ* Tucson, AZ East Bay Area, CA San Diego, CA Boulder/Ft. Collins, CO Denver, CO Fairfield County/ HousatonicValley, CT Hartford, CT New Haven/ Middlesex, CT Washington, DC Daytona/Volusia/ Flagler, FL NW FL Emerald Coast Ft. Lauderdale, FL Jacksonville/ St. Augustine, FL Melbourne/Vero, FL Miami & the Florida Keys Naples/Ft. Myers, FL North Central FL Orlando, FL Palm Beach, FL Peace River, FL Sarasota, FL Tampa/St. Pete., FL Treasure Coast, FL* Atlanta, GA Hawaiian Islands Chicago, IL Chicago Western Suburbs, IL* Indianapolis, IN Baton Rouge, LA Lafayette, LA New Orleans, LA Boston, MA Worcester, MA Ann Arbor, MI East Michigan Wayne County, MI Western MI Minneapolis/ St. Paul, MN* Charlotte, NC Lake Norman, NC

• Raleigh/Durham/ Chapel Hill, NC • Bergen/Passaic, NJ* • Central, NJ • Hudson County, NJ • Mercer County, NJ • Monmouth/ Ocean, NJ • North Central NJ • South NJ • Santa Fe/Abq., NM* • Las Vegas, NV • Albany, NY* • Buffalo, NY* • Central NY* • Long Island, NY • Hudson Valley W., NY • Manhattan, NY* • Westchester/ Putnam Co’s., NY • Central OH • Cincinnati, OH • Toledo, OH • Oklahoma City, OK • Portland, OR • Bucks/Montgomery Counties, PA • Chester/Delaware Counties, PA • Harrisburg/York, PA • Lancaster/Berks, PA • Lehigh Valley, PA* • Northeast, PA • Philadelphia, PA • Rhode Island • Charleston, SC • Columbia, SC • Greenville, SC* • Chattanooga, TN* • Austin, TX • Dallas, TX • Houston, TX • North, TX • San Antonio, TX* • South Houston/ Galveston, TX • Richmond, VA • Seattle, WA • Madison, WI* • Milwaukee, WI • Puerto Rico • Dominican Republic

* Existing magazines for sale

For more information, visit our website NaturalAwakeningsFranchise.com or call 239-530-1377

natural

*Natural Awakenings recently received the prestigious FBR50 Franchise Satisfaction Award from Franchise Business awakenings January 2017Review.25

Chelation Therapy Holds the Key to Balancing the Body and Fighting Disease

aving the optimal amount of bodily vitamins and minerals is a balance to which healthy people should strive, but what if there’s an overload of some? Toxicity develops, creating the risk of seizures, cancer, Alzheimer’s and other serious health problems. Whether overloads occur from environmental causes, lackadaisical self-care or flawed use of OTC supplements, effective practices exist to correct imbalances. Chelation and other IV Therapies can flush metal poisoning from the system on an out-patient basis. The Integrative Center for Alternative Medicine, LLC offers a variety of treatment to combat illness and return normal balance. That specialized service is provided by Dr. Mihajlo Radic, NMD, with the medical supervision of Dr. M.S. Chaudhry, M.D. Radic is a Certified Naturopathic Medical Doctor who followed years as a medical doctor in Europe with fine-tuning Chelation Therapy and naturopathic methods in the U.S. He studied the method presently used globally that was be-

Greater Mercer County, NJ

NAMercer.com

gun in Germany more than 50 years ago by toxic-substances specialists. “It’s been proven to be effective for heart disease, highblood pressure and cholesterol, obstructed carotid arteries, metal toxicity and other conditions,” says Radic. “Its use is important because toxic metals don’t stay in the bloodstream for very long; in a few hours, they travel to the bones, brain and other places in the body, causing havoc.” Chemical-removal processes introduce a synthetic amino acid solution, called EDTA or ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, into the bloodstream that grabs heavy metals, eliminating them through the kidneys. Those metals include lead, mercury, copper, iron, arsenic, cadmium and calcium, although only lead removal has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Yet, the American Cancer Society and other medical institutions also support aspects of Chelation Therapy. Radic begins by measuring toxin levels in patients and through a 24-hour urine collection sent to a diagnostic lab, with results available in about two weeks. Patients are also

tested via an intravenous drip containing 10 to 12 supplements with EDTA, in a method very similar to the actual treatment received later if diagnosed with toxicity. Radic then categorizes patients by colors, labeling their level of toxicity with red, yellow and other hues to signify heightened degrees of problems. In New York, adds Radic, lead testing is already routinely done on residents—particularly children—due to lead levels in local pipes, the air and water, building paints and other toxic locales. “The thing to remember,” he says, “is that the body’s immune system needs to be elevated. Our immunity is everything; it is the King of the World. So, it is key to improve it, elevate it and protect it. That takes patients who are disciplined, responsible and cognizant, people willing to educate themselves about their bodies, people who know how to take advice.” Without change he adds, people shouldn’t expect an unhealthy situation to improve. Those changes include diet and lifestyle tweaks, listening to rules for good health, and avoiding controversial GMOs, or Genetically-Modified Organisms. “Food is really the best medicine,” Radic says. “And, in the U.S. all foods are genetically modified. Even so-called healthy food, like wheat-infused breads, are genetically modified.” Radic, who even bakes his own bread, advises choosing dietary items mindfully. Both traditional and alternative methods of healing can be combined for patient care, particularly with Chelation. And, the answer to across-the-board FDA acceptance as well as receiving the blessings of the established medical community might lie in the precise dose of EDTA and how it’s administered. It is imperative, adds Radic, to follow all regulations as well as to consider each individual patient’s condition and body type. He specializes in creating customized IV Therapies for a host of diseases. Radic helps patients battle cancers through a series of personalized Vitamin C IV Therapies. For example, he might administer IV’s two to three times weekly for two to three months, beginning with Vitamin C, then hydrogen peroxide, and finally a Chelation blend as the last component. “Many questions need to be addressed and the dose is critical for Chelation,” he says. “It’s now clear that doses be determined by body weight, although never is it administered to patients in amounts greater than three grams.” Diabetics, of both Types 1 and 2, are helped a lot by Chelation, says Radic. They benefit by not developing gangrene, and experience noticeable anti-aging properties after emerging from treatment. “Chelation has the ability to extend life by five, 10, 15, even 20 years,” he says. “Patients see an increase in energy, have better quality of sleep, fewer pains and a greater resistance to illness.” The Integrative Center for Alternative Medicine is owned and directed by Yogeesh Sharma in Suite 2 at 10 Reeves Avenue, in Hamilton. For more information or to schedule a free consultation, call 609-508-1816. See ad on page 7.

Reading & Crossinology

Linda Gross , Ed.M. Certified in “Crossinology” & Education Specialist

Learning Issues For Children & Adults Improve Attention & Concentration Enhance Memory Reduce Anxiety & Stress Education Specialist Optimal Brain Integration Free Consultation

215-801-4020 Newtown, PA

lindagrossedm.com info@lindagrossedm.com

Origami Owl CUSTOM JEWELRY

natural awakenings

January 2017

healthykids

The Wild and Wooly

cristovao/Shutterstock.com

TEEN BRAIN

What Kids Need from Us to Grow Wise by April Thompson

eer pressure and body consciousness are universal challenges facing teens and their parents. Experts find that by modeling healthy habits and maintaining open lines of communication, adults can help foster healthy independent thinking and responses to inevitable situations.

Respect Developing Capacities

Some teen struggles are literally all in their heads, according to Dr. Frances Jensen, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine, in Philadelphia. “The brain is the last organ to mature, and isn’t fully complete until young people reach their late 20s. This allows the brain to adapt to its environment, which can be both good and bad,” says Jensen, author of The Teenage Brain: A Neuroscientist’s Survival 28

Greater Mercer County, NJ

than lectures, so parents should facilitate positive experiences and influences at home, advises Carla Atherton, director of The Healthy Family Formula, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, which fosters family well-being by holistically addressing root causes of poor health. Such activities can include regularly preparing meals together and going for family walks, rather than eating dinner in front of the TV. “Doing everything you can to connect with kids while they are in an environment you can control gives them a good foundation they can take into the world,” says Atherton, the mother of three teens. Parents have to give trust to gain kids’ trust stresses educator Naomi Katz, of Galilee, Israel, author of Beautiful: Being an Empowered Young Woman. “Create an environment where kids feel like they don’t have to hide or lie about anything,” Katz says. She also encourages parents to empower adolescents in decision making: Rather than telling them not to try drugs or alcohol “because I said so,” provide them real facts to help them draw their own conclusions.

Support Quiet Respites

Guide to Raising Adolescents and Young Adults. Compounding the challenge, the frontal lobes, responsible for higher functions like insight, judgment, impulse control and empathy, fully mature last; it’s no coincidence that teens struggle in these areas, according to Jensen. The plasticity of the teenage brain is optimal for learning and adaption, but without the frontal lobe feedback, it’s a challenge for them to moderate the heightened emotions, novelty seeking and sexual impulses adolescents are also experiencing. “We expect teenagers to act rationally, but there are many reasons why their brains aren’t taking them there,” says Jensen. “Acknowledging this can lower frustration levels for everyone.”

In today’s hyper-connected world, Katz observes, “Social dynamics can get really confusing and painful and impact kids in far-reaching ways. We used to come home from school and be away from those issues until the next day; now that break doesn’t come because of social media and smartphones.” Katz recommends encouraging journaling or other forms of selfexpression to help teens unplug and reflect. Breathing exercises can help calm nerves and allow them to think more clearly in tough social situations before they react. Katz also suggests teens set aside time each week for a feel-good activity like playing sports or music, to give them a reliable source of pleasure and accomplishment, no matter what else is going on in their lives.

Create a Safe Haven

Stay Alert to Signs

Teens learn more from experience

NAMercer.com

Despite a parent’s best efforts, kids

Despite a parent’s best efforts, kids can and will make unhealthy choices, and parents need to be prepared to manage the consequences. can and will make unhealthy choices, and parents need to be prepared to manage the consequences. If a child is suspected or found to be engaging in dangerous or addictive behaviors like self-harming or an eating disorder, it’s important to address these immediately, seeking professional help if needed, counsels Katz. Jensen remarks that it’s easier to learn unhealthy patterns when the brain is malleable, and addictive behaviors are harder to eliminate than if they are acquired as an adult. The signs of unhealthy behaviors can be subtle, so it’s important to recognize cues without making flash judgments or placing blame, says Atherton, For example, a parent that notices her teen eating differently or obsessed with working out should consider initiating a conversation with him or her about body image. Talking to teens about images in the media can help them gain a more balanced and positive self-perspective. “You can tell your kids, ‘These advertising images are trying to sell you someone’s idea of a perfect look, but it’s not reality,’” says Atherton. For whatever issues teens are trying to cope with, parents need to cultivate their own sense of inner calm; to be the rock that they can cling to. “Caring adults need to give teens a periodic frontal lobe assist,” says Jensen. “It helps when we share more details and insights about how we organize our lives and make decisions. Modeling the rationality and empathy that teenagers may lack can be an effective counterbalance.” Connect with freelance writer April Thompson, of Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com.

FAMILY OWNED & OPER

ATED SINCE 1995

Call Today to Schedule Visi

FREE Trial Class

t for a

MOTION GYMNASTICS 55 Route 31 S. Building C Pennington Business Park Pennington

609-730-9394

MotionGymnastics.com natural awakenings

January 2017

THE DARK SIDE OF GLUTEN-FREE LIVING Most People Benefit from Gluten by Judith Fertig

ales of gluten-free products reached $973 million in 2014 and are projected to grow to $2.34 billion in 2019, according to Packaged Facts, a market research publisher. Many such products cost more than their glutenbased counterparts.

Gluten Sufferers

The latest study, published in the American Medical Association publication JAMA Internal Medicine, found that the number of Americans with celiac disease remained relatively stable from 2009 through 2014 at about 2.7 million. Meanwhile, marketers for glutenfree products report about 40 million consumers. Celiac disease is a serious autoimmune disorder in which ingesting gluten causes issues such as intestinal damage, anemia and fatigue. Those afflicted improve when gluten is removed from their diets and their intestinal tracts heal, according to the Center for Celiac Research and Treatment at Massachusetts General Hospital, in Boston. Those with a non-celiac gluten sen30

Greater Mercer County, NJ

sitivity or wheat allergy also experience a range of symptoms, including bloating, brain fog and joint pain, when they ingest gluten. According to the Center, as many as 7 percent of Americans, or 18 million people, fall into this vague category, due to a far less understood immune response distinct from what’s linked to celiac disease.

Gluten Beneficiaries

The many Americans unaffected by gluten may want to avoid gluten-free products, says Dr. Michael Greger, a Washington, D.C., physician specializing in clinical nutrition. The bestselling author of How Not to Die, Greger founded the educational nonprofit NutritionFacts.org and is a founding fellow of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. “Just because some people have a peanut allergy doesn’t mean everyone should avoid peanuts,” says Greger. “Some evidence suggests that a glutenfree diet may adversely affect gut health in people without celiac disease, gluten sensitivity or wheat allergy.” He cites a

NAMercer.com

small study published in Gut Microbes which found that a one-month, glutenfree diet may hurt gut flora and immune function, potentially precipitating an overgrowth of harmful intestinal bacteria for those on gluten-free diets. The gluten components that cause problems for the wheat-sensitive may act as prebiotics and feed good bacteria for the rest of us, says Greger. “Wheat bran contains the important wheat-based prebiotic arabino-xylanoligosaccharide,” explains Case Adams, a Morro Bay, California, naturopath and author of The Gluten Cure: Scientifically Proven Natural Solutions to Celiac Disease and Gluten Sensitivities. “It feeds the probiotics that produce enzymes which help break down gluten and gliadin proteins.” Researchers from Pennsylvania’s University of Reading conducted multiple studies showing that arabino-xylanoligosaccharide derived from wheat bran increases beneficial bifidobacteria populations in the guts of humans. It is disappointing that a number of highly publicized studies done on celiac

Africa Studio/Shutterstock.com

consciouseating

patients have been inappropriately applied to the general population, notes Adams. Gluten may also boost immune function. In a study published in the journal Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry, researchers found that after less than a week on a diet with added gluten protein, subjects experienced significantly increased natural killer cell activity, which could improve their ability to fight cancer and viral infections. An earlier study in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that high-gluten bread improved triglyceride levels better than regular gluten bread. Plus, Greger says, avoiding gluten means missing out on all the fiber, B vitamins, trace minerals and other nutrients from whole grains like wheat, barley and rye. A whole-grain-rich diet has been repeatedly shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, obesity and some forms of cancer in studies from such institutions as the University of Minnesota and Lund University, in Sweden. “Most gluten-free processed foods are not made with nutrient-rich, healthprotecting whole grains,” adds Katherine Tallmadge, a Washington, D.C., registered dietitian, nutrition coach and author of Diet Simple. Ingredients such as potato starch and cornstarch with little nutritional value typically help take the place of wheat flour. “The gluten-free label has little to do with nutritional value.” French fries and many candies, for example, are naturally gluten-free.

Open Monday to Sunday 10 am to 5 pm

ADVERTISE HERE Contact us for special one-time ad rates.

and

watch

your

business

grow

publisher@NAMercer.com | 609.249.9044

Impact of Self-Diagnosis

Self-diagnosing a gluten issue can delay a doctor’s accurate assessment, cautions Greger. “We diagnose celiac by looking for the inflammation caused by gluten in celiac sufferers. If they haven’t been eating a lot of gluten, we might miss diagnosing the disease. Thus, instead of being on a gluten-free diet, we want celiac suspects to be on a gluten-loaded diet, such as four to six slices of gluten-packed bread daily for at least a month before they come in for a diagnostic exam.” Studies are ongoing and information continues to evolve regarding the pluses and minuses of a gluten-free diet. Judith Fertig writes food health articles and cookbooks from Overland Park, KS (JudithFertig.com).

Boost Your Mood and Energy Levels! One Serving Has the Equivalent Antioxidants of Four Servings of Fruits and Vegetables.

Made with certified-organic, non-GMO, Paleo profile ingredients, Natural Awakenings Green Powder supplement nourishes and strengthens every system in your body, providing support for: • DIGESTION & GASTROINTESTINAL FUNCTION • CIRCULATION & CARDIOVASCULAR FUNCTION • REGULATING BLOOD SUGAR & CHOLESTEROL • STRONGER IMMUNE SYSTEM • BALANCED, HEALTHY NUTRITION

9.5-oz jar $54.99 (30-day supply) plus $5 for shipping Order online today at

ShopNaturalAwakenings.com or call: 888-822-0246

Like us on Facebook at Natural Awakenings Webstore

natural awakenings

January 2017

wavebreakmedia/Shutterstock.com

fitbody

Body Sculpt with Kettlebells

Workouts Burn Fat and Tone Muscle by Taylor Geiger

Kettlebell training promotes fat loss, toning of major muscle groups and greater functional strength, wh i l e r e q u i r i n g l e s s t i m e t h a n i t s dumbbell counterpart.

“

ettlebells can replace almost all other exercise equipment in providing an all-in-one workout, combining strength and cardio benefits,” explains Shelly Bumpus, an Athletics and Fitness Association of America-certified personal trainer and owner of the Studio Women’s Fitness Center, in Scott, Louisiana. Bumpus often uses kettlebells in strength and conditioning exercise classes to afford a balanced full-body workout that’s fun and engaging. “Consistent kettlebell training imitates and strengthens movements we use to function in daily life,” explains Athena Concannon, an American College of Sports Medicine-certified personal trainer and healthy lifestyle blogger at AchieveWithAthena.com, in Boston. For ex-

Greater Mercer County, NJ

NAMercer.com

ample, actions like lifting grocery bags and standing up from a sitting position become easier. She notes that the growing popularity of different kinds of functional training in the past decade has bolstered recognition of kettlebell benefits as people seek ways to move away from assisted weight machines toward natural body movements. Kettlebells now show up in circuit training, CrossFit and both functional fitness and step classes. People see results because, “It takes multiple small and large muscle groups to redirect movement while maintaining control with a kettlebell, requiring more muscle recruitment than with a traditional dumbbell; it’s because its shape provides unbalanced weight resistance that strengthens a multitude of different muscles,” explains Julie Joffrion, owner of AllInclusive Health, in New Orleans. A kettlebell’s configuration requires exercisers to pay close attention to maintaining a neutral spinal posture and avoid locking knees and wrists to avoid pain or injury. By starting with a smaller weight and focusing on form first, exercisers build a foundation that allows them to more fully enjoy the benefits. Momentum training with kettlebells also compares favorably to traditional dumbbells or weighted bars. “The

Learn more at Tinyurl.com/ KettlebellsFitnessStudy. distinctive shape and weight distribution allows for a variety of exercises and grip positions that are not as comfortable and effective or even possible with a dumbbell,” says Joffrion. Although kettlebells have been popular with Russian athletes since the 1700s, they are a relatively new addition to U.S. fitness clubs. “I first learned about kettlebell fitness in 2005 when some gyms were purchasing them. However, because trainers didn’t yet know how to use or instruct on proper movement of the bells, they sat dormant for awhile. I started using them and fell in love. After a few months, I knew this would be something I’d stick with for a long time,” recalls Lorna Kleidman, an accomplished kettlebell champion who has earned gold awards in 17 national and international competitions. Now the founder of KettleX, a business focused on making kettlebell fitness available to everyone through DVDs, private sessions, online coaching and seminars, Kleidman says, “The beauty is that the bells keep you strong and looking great, no matter what your age or fitness experience. I’ve rarely met a person that didn’t get hooked after working out with the appropriate bells, be it a child or an 80-year-young client. “They are excellent for power, cardiovascular enhancement, endurance and physical symmetry, which is important for the health of the tissues and joints. At the same time, they create a healthful-looking physique, including toned arms, flat abs and a round, lifted butt.” she adds. Participants completing 20 minutes of a high-intensity kettlebell workout burned an average of 20 calories per minute in a study sponsored by the American Council of Exercise. The researchers compared this level to running a six-minute mile and credited the more intensive calorie burn as a result of challenging the total body, which quickly raises the heart rate when performed with speed. The study concluded that kettlebell training is especially beneficial for those that want to fit in a time-efficient, total body workout. Proponents go a step further, claiming that kettlebells can deliver increased benefits in half the time of traditional workouts. Bumpus advises, “If you’re solely interested in building strength and muscle power, stick with free weights, but if you’re looking for a way to burn fat while increasing muscular and cardiovascular endurance, kettlebells are a valuable option to incorporate into your training.” Taylor Geiger is a freelance writer in Phoenix, Arizona. Connect at TaylorGeiger.wordpress.com.

Powerful, Natural Pain Relief!

with Natural Awakenings’ Topical Pain Relief Enjoy safe and effective relief from:

• Arthritis Pain • Stiff Joints • Cramps • Headaches • Knee, Neck & Back Pain • Inflammation & Swelling • Tired Sore Muscles

Its natural ingredients include:

ShopNaturalAwakenings.com or call: 888-822-0246

Like us on Facebook at Natural Awakenings Webstore

If You Learn From Natural Awakenings,

Share The Knowledge, Join us on:

Facebook.com/NaturalAwakeningsMercerCounty Twitter.com/NaturalMercer Instagram.com/NaturalMercer Publisher@namercer.com natural awakenings

January 2017

Tapping: What is It? A First-Hand Depiction by Carol Bemmels

motional Freedom Techniques (aka EFT or just “tapping”) is a cutting-edge stress relief approach that works fast and gently, can provide long lasting or even permanent results, and because of its efficacy and do-it-yourself nature, can be more affordable than most other approaches. By pairing acupressure tapping on the face and upper body with thinking about your distress, the brain’s limbic system can send calming messages to

Greater Mercer County, NJ

the rest of the body which then allows you to think, feel and behave in a new, more effective way. Distress and negativity no longer control your life—you do. An illustration of just how quickly it can sometimes work is a story I tell in public lectures. I was flying home from an EFT training conference and was kind of hoping to have a seat-mate with a flying phobia or a crying baby. That didn’t happen, but shortly before land-

NAMercer.com

ing in Philadelphia, a loud argument broke out. This was before 9/11 and the increase in concerns about terrorists, but I, like all the other passengers, rubbernecked toward the aisle to find out what was happening. The argument continued as a flight attendant escorted a young woman to the back of the plane. She had carry-on luggage that didn’t fit under her seat and there was no room in the overhead compartment. The

flight attendant was doing her job, but the young woman was upset because she assumed she was being discriminated against because of her age. In addition, she wanted to exit the plane quickly to meet her boyfriend whom she hadn’t seen in a long time. The attendant was clearly ruining her day! As luck would have it, there was a middle seat open next to me, and that’s where the frustrated attendant deposited her, but not before she had the last word. “Just admit you’re wrong!” she said loudly and turned and stomped off. That was gasoline to the fire. Not only did the young woman have frustration about the initial situation, but now she had public humiliation on top of it. She turned to me and started to unload. As I remember, there were a lot of expletives as she told me her righteous side of the story. When she paused to take a breath, I quickly said, “I know this weird little technique that can calm you down” “Yes!” she said, “Show me.” “It’s kind of silly looking,” I repeated. “People don’t usually do it in public.” “I don’t care,” she said, “Show me!”

So I said, “Follow me—just tap and say what I’m saying.” We did a couple short tapping rounds, a couple of minutes at most. I think I didn’t use the exact explicit words she used, but close. Then I asked her to take a deep breath and give me a measurement one to 10 of how angry she felt. (I didn’t have to take the initial level. It was clearly a 10.) “What did you do to me?” she asked. “Nothing, you did it yourself. Why?” “It’s a five. This is amazing!” “Do you want to get it to zero?” “Yes!” So we did a few more rounds and she reported a level zero. “Are you sure?” I asked, wanting to test it. “You know you’re going to have to see her on the way out,” and I mimicked the “bye-byes” that flight staff line up to give. “No” she said, imagining that scene, “It’s all gone. Really.” (This little impromptu session lasted all of five minutes.) At this point, I reached into my purse and pulled out a document with links to websites with lots of free information and resources. She thanked me and the woman on her left that’d been quietly eavesdropping, said, “Excuse me, do you have another one of those

handouts?” I sure did. That was 16 years ago. By now, tapping has spread worldwide and is being used by doctors, nurses, humanitarian relief teams, sports coaches, school teachers, veterans support groups and counselor/therapists of all kinds. Actually, most of the people that use it are not professionals, but ordinary folks using it on themselves, family and friends. It works on physical pain and health issues as well as emotional ones, on chronic and serious problems, as well as simple stress. I don’t carry handouts anymore. A quick search on the web finds thousands of sites with free information and resources. The best way to learn it, of course, is with the assistance of a trained practitioner but once learned, it’s a DIY tool for life. Carol Bemmels, M.Ed., is an expertlevel EFT practitioner, based out of Hopewell. For more information, call her at 609-306-1711, email CBemmels@mac.com or visit EFT4AllOfUs.com. See ad on page 17.

WANT TO CONNECT WITH OUR READERS? THREE-MONTH EDITORIAL CALENDAR AND MARKETING PLANNER

FEB

MAR

APR

Conscious Dying

Food Sensitivities plus: Holistic Eye Care

plus: Medical Massage

Our Readers are Seeking Providers & Services for Hospice, Estate Planning, Burial Advice & Holistic Dental Care

Our Readers are Seeking Providers & Services for Addressing Dietary Concerns & Natural Vision Care

Our Readers are Seeking Providers & Services for Gardening/Lawn Care Supplies Massage Therapy, Xeriscapes & Other Earth-Friendly Landscaping

plus: Children’s Dental Health

Eco Yards

publisher@NAMercer.com 609-249-9044 natural awakenings

January 2017

aslysun/Shutterstock.com

greenliving

Holistic Dermatology Inner Health, Radiant Skin by Linda Sechrist

Holistic skin care practices are simple, healthy and sustainably good for people and the planet because they follow nature’s example.

edical Doctor Alan M. Dattner, a 35-year pioneer in the field of holistic dermatology, faithfully follows nature’s principles in supporting skin health. His book Radiant Skin from the Inside Out: The Holistic Dermatologist’s Guide to Healing Your Skin Naturally maps out how skin reflects the body’s healthy or unhealthy organs and systems. Finding the internal root cause of problems on the skin, the body’s largest organ, takes time to investigate. Dattner, who practices in New York City and New Rochelle, New York, and considers himself a “skin detective”, says that although his forensic work continues to expand, he still begins his sleuthing by compiling a detailed and comprehensive history that yields clues for solving health puzzles and points him in the direction of what’s causing problems. Some patients with acne also have symptoms of bloating, gastrointestinal issues or chronic bowel disease. Others may have traveled to another country where they contracted diarrhea from a parasite or foreign bacteria that upset their intestinal microbiome.

Greater Mercer County, NJ

Skin outbreaks can also be the result of food sensitivities or food allergies. “I make patients aware of the issues underlying their skin problems so that they understand the connection between internal health and skin. Then they can make conscious food choices,” says Dattner. Diet is a critical aspect of healthy skin. Food sensitivities can cause inflammation that can show up on the skin, he explains. Dattner incorporates several diagnostic techniques and remedies from other medical traditions, including herbal, homeopathic and ayurvedic. A tongue diagnosis he uses is taken from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). He uses Applied Kinesiology to refine his therapeutic choices as the results align with his knowledge of dermatology, immunology and integrative medicine. Janice MacKenzie, acupuncture practitioner, teacher and author of Discovering the Five Elements: One Day at a Time, views the skin as a third lung, because it breathes. “If the organs of elimination aren’t working well—large intestine, liver and kidney—then toxins leave through the

NAMercer.com

skin, another organ of elimination,” says MacKenzie, who practices in Perkasie, Pennsylvania. “When constipation leaves toxins to be reabsorbed into the blood and recirculated through the liver, the body, out of desperation, seeks ways to get rid of toxins through the skin. This can result in eczema, psoriasis, rashes, boils and acne,” notes MacKenzie. In TCM, the facial redness of rosacea originates in a heating of the blood caused by toxicity. An inflammatory condition of excess energy and toxicity in the stomach travels upward through the stomach energy meridian that runs from the eye to the second toe. It’s supposed to flow downward through the mouth, throat and intestines and out. Elina Fedatova, cosmetic chemist, aesthetician, owner of spas in Chicago and Kalamazoo, Michigan, and formulator of Elina Organics, addresses skin as an aspect of a whole healthy body. Her product line is created wholly from organic plant extracts and essential oils, made in batches every two weeks. These purely natural products can be ingested without harmful effects. “Formulas are made using holistic principles and adjusted for each season,” says Fedatova. She agrees with Dattner, “Protecting skin from the inside with a nutritious diet that benefits the entire body is vital, as important as keeping the skin’s surface clean.” In caring for skin from the outside, a gentle exfoliation that can be done at home three times a week using a honey mask is the first step. Skin cells produced in the deepest layer gradually push their way to the epidermis every 30 days and die. Dead cells pile up unevenly and give the skin’s surface a dry, dull appearance. Treatment serums, moisturizing lotions and eye and neck creams are necessary elements of a complete facial skin care regimen, as is a natural sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. “Using skincare practices and products that follow nature’s example are the perfect external complement to good internal health,” says Fedatova. Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Connect at ItsAllAboutWe.com.

Try Hypnosis to Keep New Year’s Resolutions by Iris Bleu

Counselor and hypnotherapist Barry Wolfson, MS, explains how hypnosis can help you overcome obstacles and achieve your goals this New Year’s

hile considered unconventional to some, hypnosis is a medicallyapproved practice that has proven effective in helping patients make positive behavioral changes. Barry Wolfson, MS, is Director of the Hypnosis Counseling Center, which he founded over 30 years ago in Bloomfield and which he has since expanded to offices in Princeton, Flemington, Livingston, King of Prussia, PA and Ft. Myers, FL. A trained hypnotherapist with a Master’s Degree in Counseling from Upsala College, Wolfson has brought his methodology to more than 30 adult schools around the state as well as corporate offices, college campuses, and hospitals. Below he explains how the renowned approach of hypnosis – first used in the 1840’s – can help people attain their personal or professional goals or realize their New Year’s resolutions. NA: Do you find that a lot of people seek out hypnosis in January? Wolfson: Absolutely. Many of us choose the New Year to make a new start, and we do it by making New Year’s resolutions. The fact is, however, almost none of us keep them. It’s not that we don’t want to make the changes, because we’re usually very sincere. It’s that we try to tough it out alone using sheer willpower, when many of our resolutions involve long term habits that are difficult to change without help. That’s where hypnosis comes in. Hypnosis is a very effective tool which can help people realize

their year’s resolution(s). So every New Year’s for the last 26 years, as predictable as the new year itself, my phone starts to ring very frequently.

these positive messages. I also offer counseling sessions via Skype as an alternative option.

NA: What is hypnosis? Wolfson: Hypnosis is an “alpha” state of mind, which is a dreamlike state similar to yoga and meditation. Hypnosis helps you leverage your strongest personal asset – your mind – to achieve lasting and positive behavioral changes. Once in a relaxed hypnotic state, you’ll open yourself to affirmative, therapeutic suggestions and begin your own journey toward positive change and personal freedom. NA: What types of conditions or behaviors can hypnosis effectively address? Wolfson: At the Hypnosis Counseling Center, we’ve successfully addressed patient issues involving weight loss, smoking cessation, self-esteem, stress reduction, fears and phobias, public speaking, anxiety and panic attacks, test-taking, insomnia, sports improvement, migraines, and confidence building, among others. NA: How would a typical session work? Wolfson: Hypnosis sessions begin with a soothing breathing exercise. Through gentle suggestions, we then lead patients into a state of complete relaxation and deep meditation. The conscious mind steps back as the subconscious mind becomes open to suggestions for change. In this state of deep relaxation, your mind concentrates on one specific behavioral change, ignoring all outside distractions. I use my voice to put clients into a very relaxed state where I can then plant positive suggestions for change. At the same time, I make my clients customized audio CDs to listen to on a daily basis to help reinforce

NA: Do people have pre-conceived notions about hypnosis that you have to dispel? Wolfson: Definitely. Contrary to popular belief, when hypnotized, you’re not asleep and you’re not unconscious – you’re able to talk, hear, move, and think. In hypnosis, you’re simply in a deep state of relaxation – similar to what you experience prior to falling asleep – where your mind is more open to positive suggestions for change. You can come out of this relaxed state at any time by simply opening your eyes. Many people also question the legitimacy of hypnosis, but the truth is it’s a scientific and medically approved methodology that’s been backed by the American Medical Association as an accepted and recommended medical procedure since 1958. NA: What are the key messages you want readers to take away about hypnosis? Wolfson: Through hypnosis, people can, for example, stop smoking without anxiety, weight gain, or mood swings, or lose weight and maintain it for life without drugs, fad diets, dangerous herbs, expensive meal plans, or special foods. The hypnotic state is attainable by almost all people -- the only tools you need are your own mind and the desire to succeed. Hypnosis is safe, medically approved, and, best of all, it works. The Hypnosis Counseling Center has offices in Princeton, Flemington, Livingston, King of Prussia, PA and Ft. Myers, FL. For more information call 908-303-7767, visit HypnosisNJ.com or e-mail Director Barry Wolfson at Barry@ HypnosisNJ.com. See ad on page 7.

natural awakenings

January 2017

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.

craving for tobacco while minimizing discomfort. Cost $55. Gauntlett Community Center, 20 Media Line Rd, Newtown Square, PA. Barry Wolfson 908-303-7767. Lose Weight With Hypnosis – 7:30-8:30pm. Through hypnosis, weight loss is easily and painlessly attained. Shed unwanted pounds and keep them off in a safe, effective program. Cost Cost $55. Gauntlett Community Center, 20 Media Line Rd, Newtown Square, PA. Barry Wolfson 908-303-7767.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 10 Thru Hiker’s Secret – 6:30-8:30pm. Free. An Appalachian Trail Thru-hike is one of the greatest gifts to yourself—it’s a true-life adventure in a modern world. But backpacking from Georgia-to-Maine by foot is not without its foes, frets and foibles. REI Princeton, Mercer Mall, Lawrenceville. 609750-1938.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 12

Happy New Year

of the natural world in winter. Hike does not meet at Watershed. Watershed Center, 31 Titus Mill Rd, Pennington. 609-737-7592.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4

SUNDAY, JANUARY 8

Guided Aromatic Meditation – 7-8pm. Develop relaxed awareness and clarity. Focus will be guided using breath, aroma and intention attuning by aroma therapist Gemma Bianchi. Cost $10. RWJ Health & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Rd, Hamilton. Register 609-584-5900.

Connecting the Drops – 2pm. Free. Do you know where your drinking water comes from? Is it safe? Join the Tri-County Sustainability Alliance to hear local experts discuss our drinking water. Camden County Regional Emergency Training Facility, 420 Woodbury Turnersville Rd, Blackwood. Register. Call 609-304-1297.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 1

SATURDAY, JANUARY 7 Welcome Winter Walk Princeton – 9:30-11:30am. Free for adults/children 5 yo+. Join Education Director Jeff Hoagland on a morning walk at the Mountain Lakes Preserve in Princeton to explore the wonders

MONDAY, JANUARY 9 Stop Smoking With Hypnosis – 6:30-7:30pm. Through hypnosis, smoking cessation is easily achieved in a one hour session. Eliminate the

Stop Smoking With Hypnosis – 6:30-7:30pm. Through hypnosis, smoking cessation is easily achieved in a one hour session. Eliminate the craving for tobacco while minimizing discomfort. Cost $55. Middlesex County College, 2600 Woodbridge Rd, Edison. Barry Wolfson 908-303-7767. Lose Weight With Hypnosis – 7:30-8:30pm. Through hypnosis, weight loss is easily and painlessly attained. Shed unwanted pounds and keep them off in a safe, effective program. Cost $55. Middlesex County College, 2600 Woodbridge Rd, Edison. Barry Wolfson 908-303-7767. Relaxation Through Hypnosis – 8:30-9:30pm. You can reduce stress using creative visualization, imagery, and hypnosis techniques improving the quality of your life. Achieve relaxation without much effort or time. Cost $55. Middlesex County College, 2600 Woodbridge Rd, Edison. Barry Wolfson 908-303-7767.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 13 In Search of Owls – 7-8:30pm. Enjoy a presentation

Open Your Heart and Home.

Become a Mentor.

Learn more, Call 856-533-4100

www.makeadifferenceathome.com 38

Greater Mercer County, NJ

NAMercer.com

followed by a night hike in search of the nocturnal raptors. Warm up indoors with a hot beverage. Cost $10/$15, member/non-member. Watershed Center, 31 Titus Mill Rd, Pennington. 609-737-7592.

as well as the basics on what you need and where to go to get started. If you ever thought about getting into snowshoeing, this is a great introduction to the sport. REI Princeton, Mercer Mall, Lawrenceville. 609-750-1938. Relaxation Through Hypnosis – 8:30-9:30pm. You can reduce stress using creative visualization, imagery, and hypnosis techniques improving the quality of your life. Achieve relaxation without much effort or time. Cost $55. Upper Merion Community Center, W. Valley Forge Rd. King of Prussia, PA. Barry Wolfson 908-303-7767.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 14 D&R Canal Watch Towpath Clean-up – 10am. Meet at Lock 11 in South Bound Brook, across from the post office on Canal Rd at Madison St. Join members of the Canal Watch in their effort to keep the state park beautiful. . REI Princeton, Mercer Mall, Lawrenceville. 609-750-1938. Reiki Level 1 Certification – 10am-6pm. Receive certification upon successful completion of this class taught by Pam Jones, RN. Class awards 7 nursing contact hours. Cost $160/person. RWJ Health & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Rd, Hamilton. Register 609-584-5900.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 18 Health Rhythm Drumming – 7-8pm. Group drumming is good fun and good for you. An evidencebased program, strengthens the immune system and reduces stress. Drums provided or bring your own. Cost $15/person. RWJ Health & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Rd, Hamilton. Register 609-584-5900.

Mozzarella “From Scratch” – 11am-1pm. Learn the basics of using rennet to turn milk into cheese in a mozzarella-making demonstration, then stretch fresh curd into your own mozzarella. Wrap up class with a cheese tasting and instructor-led comparison between fresh mozzarella and aged Cherry Grove Farm cheeses. Head home with your mozzarella and our signature class folder full of materials and recipes to use at home. Cost $70/person. Cherry Grove Farm, 3200 Lawrenceville Rd, Lawrenceville. 609-219-0053. Lose Weight With Hypnosis – 1-2pm. Through hypnosis, weight loss is easily and painlessly attained. Shed unwanted pounds and keep them off in a safe, effective program. Cost $49, Lucille Roberts, 314 So. Henderson Rd, King of Prussia, PA. Barry Wolfson 908-303-7767. Stop Smoking With Hypnosis – 2-3pm. Through hypnosis, smoking cessation is easily achieved in a one hour session. Eliminate the craving for tobacco while minimizing discomfort. Cost $49, Lucille Roberts, 314 So. Henderson Rd, King of Prussia, PA. Barry Wolfson 908-303-7767.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 15

FRIDAY, JANUARY 20 National Cheese Lover’s Day – Celebrate your passion with a wedge or small wheel from the farm. Cherry Grove Farm, 3200 Lawrenceville Rd, Lawrenceville. 609-219-0053. & 5-7pm. Free. Kick-start your New Year’s resolution to get in shape by getting a few basic health screenings including weight, blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), cholesterol, glucose, posture, and balance to see how you measure up. Hamilton Area YMCA John K. Rafferty Branch, 1315 WhitehorseMercerville Rd, Hamilton. 888-897-8979. Stop Smoking With Hypnosis – 6:30-7:30pm. Through hypnosis, smoking cessation is easily achieved in a one hour session. Eliminate the craving for tobacco while minimizing discomfort. Cost $55. Upper Merion Community Center, W. Valley Forge Rd. King of Prussia, PA. Barry Wolfson 908-303-7767.

Introduction to EFT Tapping – Noon to 5pm. Learn the basics of this amazing self-help tool by practicing with others. Led by Carol Bemmels, M.Ed. Cost $50/person. To register and for information call Carol at 609-306-1711.

Lose Weight With Hypnosis – 7:30-8:30pm. Through hypnosis, weight loss is easily and painlessly attained. Shed unwanted pounds and keep them off in a safe, effective program. Cost Cost $55. Upper Merion Community Center, W. Valley Forge Rd. King of Prussia, PA. Barry Wolfson 908-303-7767.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 17

Snowshoeing Basics – 7:30pm. Free. Join experienced REI staff for a class on the basics of snowshoeing. Focus is on the appropriate selection of gear

Happy New Year to Your Health – 8:30-10:30am

If you don’t like the road you’re walking, start paving another one. ~Dolly Parton

SATURDAY, JANUARY 21 Sensational Summer Camp Fair – Noon-3pm. Free. Meet Camp Director Tammy Love at the camp fair in the Quakerbridge Mall to learn about Watershed Nature Camp 2017. Quakerbridge Mall, Lawrenceville. 609-737-7592.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 22 Ricotta Lunch – 11am-1pm. The introduction to home cheese-making, ricotta is the easiest cheese to make at home. It requires only a few simple ingredients and very little time. Cost $70/person. Cherry Grove Farm, 3200 Lawrenceville Rd, Lawrenceville. 609-219-0053.

MONDAY, JANUARY 23 Princeton Integrative Health Grand Opening – 5pm. PIH is a new, family-owned and -run integrative health/medicine practice. 134 Franklin Corner Rd, STE 101B, Lawrenceville. 609-512-1468.

Ewing Structural Bodywork Enjoy a new level of well-being and physical freedom!

Offering Rolf Method Massage for people and canines Beth Verbeyst BCSI, IASI, ABMP

609-731-9576 EwingStructuralBodywork.com natural awakenings

January 2017

NA Fun Facts: Natural Awakenings

is read nationwide by 3,880,000 people each month.

Natural Awakenings is published in over 90 U.S. markets.

Natural Awakenings

prints 1,552,000 magazines nationwide each month.

Natural Awakenings is read online by 144,000 viewers. each month. The convenient

Natural Awakenings’ iPhone / iPad app is used by 35,000 people & growing.

To advertise with us call: 609-249-9044

Greater Mercer County, NJ

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24

TUESDAY, JANUARY 31

Maple Tree Tapping – 12-12:45pm. Help the Teacher-Naturalists get ready for maple sugaring season 2017! Join us for a short talk about maple sugaring. Then head out on the property and assist as we tap the maple trees that we will use this year for sap collection. Cost $5/person, under 3 free. Watershed Center, 31 Titus Mill Rd, Pennington. 609-737-7592.

Cold Weather Cycling Basics – 6:30-8pm. Free. Join REI experts as they share tips and tricks that will keep you riding when the weather turns cold. Experienced cycling instructors will show you how to outfit you and your bike to handle inclement weather, dropping temperatures and other challenges that traditionally keep cyclists out of the saddle.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 25 EFT/Tapping Lecture – 7pm. Free. Carol Bemmels, M.Ed, explains the history, science and success of Emotional Freedom Techniques or Tapping. Hightstown Memorial Library, 114 Franklin St, Hightstown. 609-306-1711. Reiki Sharing Evening – 7-9pm. For Reiki practitioners only to share reiki with each other. Bring pillow, small sheet and blanket. Cost $5. RWJ Health & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Rd, Hamilton. Register 609-584-5900.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 28 Groundhog Day Celebration – 10-11:30am. Free. Celebrate Groundhog Day at the Watershed Reserve with a hike to check out several burrows of these furry weather forecasters. Learn about their life history and role in the ecological community and enjoy the challenge of the hibernation game. After hike and game, warm up by fire to enjoy roasted marshmallows and a hot beverage. Watershed Center, 31 Titus Mill Rd, Pennington. 609-737-7592. Holistic Animal Healing – 10:30am-noon. Certification in Reiki and Holistic Healing Methods for Animals for completion of all three classes. Marjy Wienkop, CFTBS, Reiki Master. Pre-requisite Reiki 1. Cost $15/person. RWJ Health & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Rd, Hamilton. Register 609-584-5900.

NAMercer.com

Plan Ahead WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1 Guided Aromatic Meditation – 7-8pm. Develop relaxed awareness and clarity. Focus will be guided using breath, aroma and intention attuning by aroma therapist Gemma Bianchi. Cost $10. RWJ Health & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Rd, Hamilton. Register 609-584-5900.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4 Winter Exploration Geocache Event – 1:303:30pm. Great introduction to geocaching as well as ecology of winter. Track animals, meet winter weeds, talk with birds and much more. Bring own GPS. Cost $5/person. Watershed Center, 31 Titus Mill Rd, Pennington. 609-737-7592.

FRIDAY, MARCH 10 Transformative Personal Growth and SelfRealization Retreat – Through March 12. A highly interactive and experiential retreat, focused on identifying, aligning and living your purpose located in The Country Place, 45 Country Ln, White Haven PA. Cost $1100/person. Must register. Call 973-580-6131 / 973-252-4133.

ongoingevents daily Car Seat Safety Check – Princeton HealthCare System Community Education & Outreach Program is pleased to offer free car seat safety checks. Car seat installation can be a challenge for many parents. Approximately 90 percent of car seats are not installed correctly or are misused. Call for location and appointment. 888-897-8979.

sunday Spiritual Awakening Service – 10:30 am. If you are looking for a warm, dynamic community of spirituallyminded 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.

tuesday Breast Feeding Support Group – 11am-noon. Free support group to answer your questions and share your experiences with other nursing mothers. UMCP Breast Health Center, East Windsor Medical Commons 2, 300B Princeton-Hightstown Rd, East Windsor. Pre-Natal Yoga – 6-7pm. Expectant mothers will learn how to use gentle postures, stretching, breathing, toning, relaxation and meditation to help them keep fit and feel good during pregnancy. No previous yoga experience is necessary; however, medical clearance from a healthcare professional is required. Please bring a yoga mat or large towel, two pillows or cushions, a yoga tie or a regular tie for stretching. Princeton HCS, 731 Alexander Rd, STE 103, Princeton. 888-897-8979.

thursday

to questions concerning labor and delivery. Learn labor signs, relaxation and breathing techniques, and comfort measures to promote a positive birth experience. 3rd session includes tour of Maternal and Newborn Care Center. Cost $125. University Medical Center of Princeton, Education Center, 1 Plainsboro Rd, Plainsboro. 888-897-8979.

friday Breast Feeding Support Group – 11am-noon. Free support group to answer your questions and share your experiences with other nursing mothers. UMCP Breast Health Center, East Windsor Medical Commons 2, 300B Princeton-Hightstown Rd, East Windsor.

saturday

3 Step Qigong – 9:30-11am. Three Step Qigong consists of three exercises, which can be performed Birthing Basic – 7-9pm. 4 week program for ex- in 10 minutes, and will keep you well. The secret to pectant parents provides2 information andAM answers SunnyAd.qxp_Layout 8/9/15 10:51 Page 1 qigong’s effectiveness lies in the way the exercises

are performed. You will learn these techniques over the course of the class. Personal qigong training is also available for those who prefer a more individual rhythm. Cost $25/person. Registration preferred. Healing Touch Healing Movement, 178 Tamarack Circle, Montgomery. 609-742-3140. STEM for Preschoolers – 10-11am. Parent & child 3-5 year old. Explore the STEM world (science, technology, engineering and math) together. Topic vary monthly and include stories and outdoor exploration. Parents expected to stay for entire class. Cost $10/$15, member/non-member. Watershed Center, 31 Titus Mill Rd, Pennington. 609-737-7592. Healing Touch, Healing Movement Solutions – Noon-1:30pm. 2nd and 4th Saturday. Experience the combination of qigong and shiatsu to address existing issues such as neck and shoulder discomforts. The instruction will cover both practices that you can use for yourself and for others who would benefit. Cost, donation as Andrzej prefers to give back to the community and desires anyone wanting to attend. Come alone or bring a friend. 178 Tamarack Circle, Montgomery. 609-742-3140.

Transform Your Life – Body, Mind & Heart Would you like to have the ability, knowledge and tools to create the life you desire? Call today to schedule your complimentary 15-minute phone session.

Sunny van Vlijmen

609.275.3881

Holistic Health Consultant, Mentor, Educator

4444 Route 27 North, Kingston NJ 08528 • SunnyvanVlijmen@EFT-Practice.com • www.TreatYourSelfToHappy.com natural awakenings

January 2017

FEB Children’s Dental Health Plus: Conscious Dying

Our Readers Are Seeking Providers & Services for Holistic Dental Care, Pediatric Dentists plus Estate Planning, Hospice & Eco-Burial Advice

communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email Publisher@NAMercer.com or call 609-249-9044 to request our media kit.

BODYWORK HOLISTIC CONSULTANT Craig Reichert Bordentown 917-280-2648 CraigReichert3@gmail.com

Offering a unique approach to wellness through combined modalities. Active in the Holistic Healing Field for over 20 years, working with clients on Body, Mind, and, Spirit by reducing stress and balancing Chakras through Reiki, Guided Meditation, and Self Hypnosis (Certified Hypnotherapist). Call for a free consultation to discuss your situation. “Now” is the time to make changes and work on mindfulness. Reasonable rates.

MASSAGE THERAPIST

Marisa Foerter 609-351-2476 MassageByMarisa.MassageTherapy.com

spiritual state.

Licensed massage therapist, healing touch practitioner whose calling is to provide a gentle, nurturing touch to enable client to restore to a healthy physical, mental, emotional and

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

Waldorf T h e Wa l d o r f c u r r i c u l u m ,

in 1,000+ schools worldwide, School used integrates arts, academics, of Princeton

movement, and music, emphasizing social and environmental responsibility. The hands-on approach is screen free.

ENERGY HEALING HOLISTIC CONSULTANT Sunny van Vlijmen 4444 Rte 27, Kingston 609-275-3881 TreatYourselfToHappy.com

Do you want real and lasting change? My professional background of 20+ years in alternative healing and personal development has taught me what works and what doesn’t. If you’re ready for change, schedule your free 15-minute phone consultation, today. See ad, page 41.

EFT (TAPPING) PRACTICIONER

COMMERCIAL KITCHEN CHERRY STREET KITCHEN

1040 Pennsylvania Ave, Trenton CherryStreetKitchen.com 609-695-5800

Commercial kitchen for chefs and food entrepreneurs with modern, pleasant and ample space for hourly/daily rentals. Large 1-story with 4 cooking bays including bakery, plus cart and pallet storage. Must be friendly, clean, and cooperative. Rte.1 access, borders Lawrenceville.

Carol Bemmels, M.Ed. Hopewell 609-306-1711 CBemmels@mac.com EFT4AllofUs.com

Ta p p i n g q u i c k l y a d d r e s s e s underlying trapped emotions in most illness and psychological problems. Private sessions in Hopewell or by Skype. Call or e-mail for free 20 minute consultation.

HOLISTIC CARE EVANS CHIROPRACTIC

CUSTOM JEWELRY ORIGAMI OWL

Serving Mercer County 609-249-9044 CreativeJewelry.OrigamiOwl.com

Tell your story with a meaningful, customizable Living Locket. Choose the Charms that represent your passions, memories, dreams and the things you love and capture them in your Living Locket.

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

609-249-9044 42

Greater Mercer County, NJ

NAMercer.com

Dr. Eric Evans 3679 Nottingham Way, STE A, Hamilton 609-586-9199 EvansChiro.com We provide a Holistic based wellness service. I have found EVANS that a direct, hands-on approach CHIROPRACTIC with consistent HEALTH &WELLNESS awareness and FROM WITHIN education yields the best results for those who come to me for help with a wide variety of health issues. Our goal is to tailor a programs to your individual needs, unleashing your own healing potential so that you can go through life with the absence of Dis-Ease.

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

REGENERATIVE MEDICINE

MENTOR NEW JERSEY MENTOR

EDWARD MAGAZINER, M.D.

856-533-4100 MakeADifferenceatHome.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 23.

Our Mentors come from all walks of life, but they share one thing in common. By taking someone into their own home, they all make a difference—whether it’s in the life of a child in need with behavioral or emotional challenges or as a host home for a child or adult with intellectual or developmental disabilities. As a Mentor, you show them through your actions that we all matter and we all deserve to live life to the fullest. See ad on page 21.

HYPNOSIS

NATURAL PRODUCTS

HYPNOSIS COUNSELING CENTER Barry Wolfson 48 Tamarack Circle, Princeton 28 Mine St, Flemington 2 East Northfield Rd, Livingston 3400 Valley Forge Ci, King of Prussia 908-303-7767 • HypnosisNJ.com

With 30 years experience, Hypnosis Counseling Center of NJ utilizes both traditional counseling methods and the art of hypnotherapy in private and group settings. Regularly hold adult education seminars, work with hospitals, fitness centers, and individuals wanting to better their lives. Specialize in weight loss, stress, smoking, confidence building, phobias, insomnia, test taking, sports improvement and public speaking. See ad on page 7.

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 8.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PRINCETON INTEGRATIVE HEALTH Vincent Leonti, MD Jenna Richardson, CIHC, FDN-P 134 Franklin Corner Rd, STE 101B, Lawrenceville 609-512-1468 Info@PrincetonIH.com PrincetonIH.com

Father / daughter team focused on uncovering the root cause of disease and dysfunction, identifying true healing opportunities and cocreating health with their patients.

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-ofthe-art and innovative pain management treatments including platelet-rich plasma, Stem Cell therapy and Prolotherapy to alleviate these problems. See ad, page 2.

BAM BAM BROTH

732-835-2261 BamBamBroth@gmail.com BamBamBroth.com

2017

Bam Bam Broth is a paleofriendly, gluten-free bone broth company. Our bone broth is made from locally sourced grass-fed, grass-finished beef bones or pasture-raised chicken. Each broth is simmered for a minimum of 36 hours to extract the amino acids, minerals and gut healing collagen. Each broth is simmered with deionized water, organic celery, carrots, onions, garlic, Himalayan pink salt, apple cider vinegar, turmeric and ginger. Beef and chicken broth are available as well as part of our subscription service to save you money. We also offer Paleo-friendly snacks and foods to supplement your health lifestyle.

NATURAL SERVICES

FEBRUARY

conscious dying

plus: children’s dental health MARCH

food sensitivities

plus: holistic eye health APRIL

eco-yards

plus: medical massage MAY

natural pregnancy & childbirth plus: women rising JUNE

chronic pain remedies

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

plus: hybrid vehicles update JULY

natural detox options plus: true prosperity AUGUST

rethinking cancer

plus: reframing autism SEPTEMBER

graceful aging plus: yoga OCTOBER

transformative travel plus: chiropractic NOVEMBER

CHERRY GROVE FARM

3200 Lawrenceville Rd, Lawrenceville 609-219-0053 CherryGroveFarm.com

editorial calendar

Organic and natural products including farmstead cheeses; Buttercup Brie, seasonal Jacks, Rosedale, Herdsman, Toma, Havilah and Cheddar Curds. Additional products include wheyfed pork, grass-fed lamb and beef, pasture-raised eggs and myriad locally sourced goods. See ad on page 31.

diabetes prevention & reversal plus: silent retreats DECEMBER

uplifting humanity plus: holidays

natural awakenings

January 2017

Eat Right, Anytime

with Ready-to-Eat Wild Salmon

.99

Eight 3.5 oz Pouches Ready-to-Eat Salmon

.99

Fully Cooked, Boneless, Skinless No Refrigeration Required! Perfect for: • Sandwiches & Wraps • Quick Lunch at Work • Post-Workout Protein • Omelets, Crepes, & Quiche • Chowders & Soups

BUY DIRECT & SAVE 40%! Ready-to-Eat Wild Alaskan Sockeye Salmon 8-Pack, Item #1-16029-N

Use Key Code NATURAL16 for your 40% Off Savings!

Shop Online: SeaBear.com or Call 800.474.8302

*$8.99 flat rate shipping in the Continental USA. Offer ends February 28th, 2017. Limit 3 per customer.