Natural Awakenings Mercer NJ, February 2017 by Natural Awakenings Mercer

H E A L T H Y

L I V I N G

H E A L T H Y

P L A N E T

feel good • live simply • laugh more

Alison Armstrong on

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SPEAKING MEN-GLISH Transforming the Way Women Relate to Men

In the O-Zone Oxygen Therapy

Heals a Host of Ills

SACRED PASSAGE Conscious Dying as a Transformative Healing Journey

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

February 2017

No More Pain! Dr. Magaziner can help you recover from Traumatic Injuries

Getting The Proper Care after a Car Accident is Crucial Dr. Magaziner has been caring for accident victims for over 25 years. His philosophy is to provide a comprehensive evaluation as soon as possible after the accident. The reason that timing is critical, even after a low-speed car accident, is that the forces exerted on the body during a collision can cause a lot of hidden softtissue injuries that may not show up until days or weeks after the car injury occurred. Emergency room doctors have to focus on immediate, lifethreatening injuries first. More often than not once a life-threatening injury is ruled out auto accident victims, are sent home from the emergency room with some pain relievers and little to no recommendation for further treatment. This type of trauma commonly causes muscle, ligament, joint and disc injuries which if not promptly treated could lead to more serious and chronic conditions. Absolutely do not under estimate the seriousness of your injuries regardless of the amount of pain you are immediately experiencing. You need to pay attention to the warning signs such as: Neck pain or stiffness, headaches, dizziness, back pain, confusion or trouble

concentrating, numbness or tingling, ringing in the ears, jaw pain, depression and fatigue. Dr. Magaziner specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of acute traumatic injuries. Once an accurate diagnosis is made, Dr. Magaziner will design a specific treatment plan for your condition. Dr. Magaziner’s philosophy is to start with the more conservative treatments (less invasive) first such as physical therapy or chiropractic care. The Center for Spine, Sports, Pain Management and Orthopedics Regenerative Medicine centrally located in North Brunswick, New Jersey, specializes in non-invasive interventional pain treatments designed to reduce pain and heal the injured regions. There are many nonsurgical treatments which are effective

in the treatment of traumatic injuries. Highly respected by his peers, Dr. Magaziner has been the CEO of the New Jersey Interventional Pain Society, a clinical professor at Robert Wood Johnson University and an assistant professor at the New York Medical College. Dr. Magaziner is on the cutting edge of new procedures designed to reduce pain and regenerate injured tissue. He has successfully treated thousands of patient’s who have suffered a traumatic injury. If you have suffered a traumatic injury and have acute or chronic pain, call our office today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation to determine how we can help!

%DWARD -AGAZINER -$

877-817-3273 • www.DrEMagaziner.com

contents 6 newsbriefs

12 healthbriefs

15 globalbriefs

17 ecotip 22 healingways

15 24 wisewords 26 greenliving 28 healthykids 30 consciouseating

32 naturalpet 36 fitbody

37 inspiration 38 calendar

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

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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 SACRED PASSAGE

Conscious Dying as a Transformative Healing Journey by Linda Sechrist

22 IN THE O-ZONE

Oxygen Therapy Heals a Host of Ills by Valerie Burke

24 TRANSFORMING THE

WAY WOMEN RELATE TO MEN An Interview with Alison Armstrong by April Thompson

26 SUSTAINABLY

STYLISH HOME

Relax into Nurturing Furnishings by April Thompson

28 KEEP DECAY AWAY

Kids Do Best with Holistic Dentistry by Linda Sechrist

30 INDOOR KITCHEN GARDENING

Easy-Grow Microgreens Are Big on Nutrition by Barbara Pleasant

32 HEART-TO-HEART

WITH A HORSE

Their Gentle Empathy Helps Us Heal by Sandra Murphy

34 THE WONDERS OF BONE BROTH by Amy Madeau

letterfrompublisher When I saw you I fell in love, and you smiled because you knew. ~William Shakespeare

omance, true love and cupids shooting arrows through the air is all around us. February always conjures up images like this for me; Commercials showing canoodling couples reminding us we need to buy chocolates, jewelry, cards and make reservations for overpriced dinners crowded with other couples eager to show everyone how much effort went into this night. I am not against Valentine’s Day. I’m really not, but I am opposed to just going through the motions of another holiday. Love is important, and it should be treated that way every day of the year whenever possible. With that said, I am not a dreamy-eyed girl dependent on random flower delivers or shiny trinkets to reinforce that my significant other loves me. I’m much more of a realist and down-to-earth kind of girl, appreciating the day-to-day things like washing the dishes left in the sink, so I can work in the kitchen and cook the next meal, offering to drive the kids to school because you snored all night and kept me awake, you know, the little things. It’s in these little day-to-day moments that I feel most loved and cared for. My husband and I call each other comrade because we’re in the trenches together. It reminds us that we have each other’s back. It is the simple word that really says: “I got you or I get you and more importantly I’m here to make sure that you don’t get swallowed up and spit out by life (my kids, family members or friends).” So, Valentine’s Day in my house is a homemade meal with some pretty heart decorations, maybe even a balloon and a being with my guy while I cook a delicious dinner. I seek comfort knowing that we are both not alone and that romance and love in our house means friendship, cooperation and trust. Don’t get me wrong, we bicker like sixth-graders about the most ridiculous things, like which way is faster to the store or when he goes to the grocery store with a list for specific items and still returns with wrong items. We remember to laugh and let go of the things that really don’t matter in the big picture. However you choose to show your love or celebrate it, I hope it brings you joy and happiness but most of all, I hope it brings you together. Wishing you love and joy,

Managing Editor Dave Beveridge

Proofreader Randy Kambic

Design & Production Jason Cross Stephen Blancett

Franchise Sales 239-530-1377

Phone: 609-249-9044 Fax: 609-249-9044 NAMercer.com Publisher@NAMercer.com © 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. 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.

Lori Beveridge, Owner/Publisher

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.

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February 2017

newsbriefs Winter Running You Down?

Build and Boost Your Immune System in Hamilton

he Integrative Center for Alternative Medicine, in Hamilton, offers several treatment options to build and boost your immune system including intravenous chelation, vitamin C and hydrogen peroxide therapies. The center is staffed by two primary physicians: Dr. M.S. Choudhry, Ph.D., DPH; Dr. Mihajlo Radic, NMD; and

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

Yogesh Sharma, manager. The practice is currently offering free consultations for patients interested in these treatments that are supported with personal and customized drips to try to prevent sleep problems, Lyme disease, cancer, arthritis, artery obstructions and many other diseases and ailments plus to remove toxins and metals and improve circulation. Location: 10 Reeves Ave., Hamilton. For more information or to schedule a free consultation, call 609-508-1816. Office hours are Mon. to Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. See ad on page 7.

Embodied Heart, Sensual Soul JourneyDance Global Event

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en and women will be gathering in Princeton to experience the Embodied Heart, Sensual Soul a JourneyDance international event from 6 to 9 p.m. on February 11 in Princeton. Joy Okoye, JourneyDance facilitator, comments, “The JourneyDance experience is designed to empower the community, create connection and to celebrate life. It’s a dynamic, transformational practice that combines guided and freestyle movement to help you get out of the mind and get into the body. JourneyDance acts as a catalyst for you to celebrate the magnificence of your body and life.” Okoye continues, “Through movement explorations, powerful core connections, fascia engagement and breath awareness, participants at the Embodied Heart, Sensual Soul JourneyDance Workshop will release judgment, freely express their sensual soul, and move into a new story of self-love. Participants will give and receive energetic and heart-centered touch, allowing healing and nourishment of supportive group connection.” Cost $35/$40, preregister/door. Location: Princeton Integral Yoga Community Center, Princeton Shopping Center, 301 N. Harrison St., Bldg. A, Ste. 1E, Princeton. For more information and to register, visit JourneyDance.Ontraport. com/f/1/21163/79/bb2bd6174a22270fd1f5d73798af27c1.

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Consider Qigong for Stress Relief in Pennington

elease and move on from stress, anger or frustration through practicing qigong for your emotions as led by Andrzej Leszczynski, master practitioner, at Integrated Fitness, in Pennington. To physically release these unhealthy feelings, this class is an adaptation of Shaolin Song Shon Kung Fu. While actual fighting doesn’t take place, participants will practice a lot of kicking, punching, stamping and screaming. Leszczynski comments, “The liver houses these negative emotions and it accumulates with time causing further damage to the physical health, emotional balance and our behavior.” This class is designed for those in good physical shape that need to maintain emotional balance. As an added side effect, general fitness will improve. Cost: $20/class or buy six classes and receive one free. Location: Integrated Fitness, 215 North Main St., Pennington. For more information, call 609-742-3140 or visit HealingTouch HealingMovement.com.

Watershed Nature Camp 2017 Open Houses

s it’s currently the heart of winter, it might seem too early to think about upcoming spring and summer nature camps. But now is the time to take advantage and explore options for later this year. Consider attending an open house for the Stony Brook-Millstone WaterShed Association’s 2017 Nature Camp from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on February 28 or 1 to 3 p.m. on March 25 in Pennington. Campers spend summer days outside exploring the wonders of nature on a 930-acre reserve. They learn about nature and themselves while playing in fields, forests, a pond and stream. Campers discover magic everywhere whether catching butterflies, exploring the waters, shelter-building or enjoying nature crafts, games and hikes. The camp staff will supervise new and different plans for each program. Location: Stony Brook-Millstone Watershed Association, 31 Titus Mill Rd., Pennington. For more information, 609-7373735, email Camp@TheWatershed.org or visit TheWatershed.org.

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

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February 2017

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newsbriefs Celebrate Black History Month

609-235-9030 Solutions for Healthy Living

Think with your whole body. ~Taisen Deshimaru

he Lawrence Headquarters Branch of the Mercer County Library System will be celebrating Black History Month by hosting a variety of programs including a documentary screening of Prince Among Slaves, at 6 p.m. on February 16, the first meeting of the African-American Literature Reading Circle and an African-American History Celebration in Lawrenceville. The 58-minute movie tells the incredible true story of the life of an African Muslim prince who was sold into slavery. Refreshments will be served. At 6:30 p.m. on February 22, the African American Literature Reading Circleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s meeting will host a discussion and celebration of popular books written by African Americans. At the first meeting, participants will review the book selections for future months, including Black Boy: A Record of Childhood and Youth by Richard Wright, The Street by Ann Petry, Go Tell It On The Mountain by James Baldwin, Sula by Toni Morrison, Salvage The Bones by Jesmyn Ward, and The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead. Concluding from 1 to 4 p.m. on February 25, join in an African-American History Celebration. Celebrate culture and heritage with Brazilian dancing, African drumming and the Lifting Every Voice skit performance by the Don Evans Players. This event is co-sponsored by The African American Cultural Collaborative of Mercer County and the Friends of the Lawrence Library Location: Lawrence Headquarters Branch of the Mercer County Library System, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville. Registration is suggested for all programs. For more information, call 609-989-6920, email LawProgs@mcl.org or visit MCL.org.

Learn the 10 Most Common Gardening Mistakes

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verybody, including brand-new gardeners and even experienced green thumbs, makes gardening mistakes. It happens to the best of us. Barbara J. Bromley, who has been the Mercer County Horticulturist for many years, and, by her own admission, has made a few mistakes herself, will present the 10 most frequent gardening mistakes she has seen and heard about over the years from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on February 15 in Lawrence. Pre-registration by email is the preferred method of signing up for this program. Free parking will be available. Event will be held rain or shine. Location: Mercer County Extension, 930 Spruce St., Lawrence. For more information, call 609-989-6830 or visit MGOFMC.org. To register, email RMGOFMC Programs@gmail.com.

Greater Mercer County, NJ

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February 2017

GIVE YOUR BUSINESS AN ENERGY BOOST

newsbriefs Valentine’s Day Hay Rides in Lambertville

ncurable romantics can warm-up for Valentine’s Day in style at Howell Farm, in Lambertville. For married or courtin’ folks, they offer the farm’s circa 1900 horse-drawn sleigh (or carriage) for rides. Families and groups can also enjoy a horse-drawn bobsled (or wagon) ride. Weather permitting, rides are offered free, on a first come, first-serve basis. Afterwards, enjoy hot chocolate and an outdoor hand-warming fire. Valentine treats will be available for purchase to enjoy in the visitors center or to take home for that special someone. Free admission and parking. Location: 70 Wooden’s Lane, Lambertville. For more information, call 609-737-3299 or visit HowellFarm.org.

Schafer Sports Center Open House Camp Fair in Ewing

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onsider the new, state-of-the-art, Schafer Sports Center, in Ewing, a 37,800-squarefoot athletic complex designed for busy, active families—siblings and parents, and for kids of every age, every ability, including children with special needs—when seeking a convenient place for kids to try different sports locally. The center includes a gymnastics studio, indoor Astroturf field, dance studio, indoor warm-water pool, birthday party rooms, café’ and more. Owner and Director of Special Needs Shannon Schafer comments, “At Schafer, we believe in developing children’s skills, nurturing their self-esteem and inspiring them to reach for the stars.” Schafer continues, “We offer classes seven days a week at various times convenient for busy families. We will have a free open house camp fair for our camp program from 10 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m. on February 26. Families can take a tour of our facility and find out about our summer camp and other programs we offer. Our facility is a fun, safe and healthy place for children to participate in while not in school.” The camp fair will offer a discount to families that enroll for more than one week of camp. Additionally, all programs offer a free trial program for children to attend.

Location: 5 Graphic Dr., Ewing. For more information, call 609-393-5855, email Info@SchaferSports.com or visit SchaferSports.com. See daily calendar for program listings. See ad on page 23.

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NovaMentis Retreat Coming in March

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 973-580-6131 / 973-252-4133, email NovaMentisRetreat@ gmail.com or visit Novadynamix.com. See ad on page 3.

FITNESS STUDIOS BORDENTOWN

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

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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)

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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

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February 2017

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Infants Breathing Bad Air May Suffer as Teens

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Reflexology and Imagery Relieve Preoperative Anxiety

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nticipating surgery can be stressful, and many patients suffer from preoperative anxiety, which can cause serious health complications such as hypertension, rapid pulse and sugar metabolism changes. Israeli researchers from the University of Haifa have found that complementary medicine, combined with standard use of anti-anxiety drugs prior to entering the operating room, can significantly reduce preoperative anxiety levels and improve outcomes. Researchers divided 360 preoperative patients ages 17 and up into three groups: those receiving standard care for preoperative anxiety; those receiving standard care along with complementary therapy, featuring acupuncture, reflexology, individual guided imagery or a combination of the latter two; and those receiving standard care combined with generic guided imagery via a recording. Anxiety levels were measured preoperatively before and after the intervention on a scale of one to 10, with scores of four or more constituting intermediate or higherlevel anxiety. The study found that complementary therapy in combination with standard care produced a 60 percent reduction in anxiety, with the mean score dropping from 5.54 to 2.32. Combining standard care with reflexology and guided imagery provided the best relief, reducing anxiety by an average of 4.22 points. Patients receiving only standard care experienced a slight rise in their average anxiety level.

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study from the Karolinska Institute of Environmental Medicine, in Stockholm, analyzed data on air pollution exposure and lung function in the first and 15th years of life among 2,415 adolescents in Sweden. The researchers focused on nitrogen oxide in vehicle exhaust and particulate matter from road erosion, using road traffic, topography and weather conditions to classify pollution levels. They compared this data to the level of difficulty the teens experienced getting air through their peripheral airways, termed “resistance”. The study found that breathing problems increased for teenagers each time their exposure as infants to such pollution increased by 10 micrograms per cubic meter, with the strongest association occurring in male subjects with asthma at age 16. The same increase was not present in relation to their exposure to traffic pollution as teenagers. Lead author Erica S. Schultz, Ph.D., says, “An increasing number of studies demonstrate the importance of airway periphery for lung health. It’s concerning that the effect from the first year of life seems to be long-lasting, although we don’t yet know the full clinical implications.”

Fenugreek Eases Menopause

Your Health. Your Life. In Balance. Princeton Integrative Health Now Accepting Patients 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.

Chinese Herbs Lessen Postpartum Blues

study from the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, in Beijing, reports that Chinese Herbal Medicine (CHM) can be an effective treatment for patients with postpartum depression. Traditional Chinese Medicine advocates herbal treatments based on underlying issues. Researchers analyzed data from 47 clinical trials encompassing 3,795 participants between the ages of 18 and 43 suffering from postpartum depression. The study pooled results into three categories: CHM versus placebo, CHM versus routine treatments (antidepressants) and CHM plus routine treatments versus only routine treatments. The study found that using Chinese herbs combined with antidepressants is the most effective approach, noting that CHM is a safe, effective alternative for patients unable or unwilling to take antidepressants.

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randomized, double-blind study from the Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Science and Research, in Bangalore, India, has found that an extract of fenugreek husk (FHE) called FenuSMART can provide relief from common symptoms of menopause, including night sweats, insomnia, headaches, hot flashes and mood swings. Researchers studied 88 menopausal women between the ages of 45 and 58. Half were given one gram of FHE per day for 90 days while the other half received a placebo. The study measured the impact the supplement had on the subjects’ menopausal symptoms through weekly telephone sessions. At the study’s end, approximately 32 percent of the women in the FHE group reported no hot flashes, while the placebo subjects saw the frequency of theirs reduced from three to five per day to one or two. Additionally, the subjects that took FHE experienced a 57 percent reduction in night sweats, a 68 percent abatement of mood swings, a 75 percent drop in insomnia and 58 percent fewer headaches.

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February 2017

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Fortified Foods Cut Into Supplement Use

Early Job Satisfaction Supports LongTerm Health

Greater Mercer County, NJ

September 2016 survey from Packaged Facts, a division of Market Research Group, LLC, showed that as much as 20 percent of the U.S. adult population is cutting back on supplement use due to consumption of fortified foods. Despite this trend, nutritional supplement sales nationwide are projected to increase by $1.5 billion in just two years to $16 billion in 2018. Fortified foods contain extra nutrients added by manufacturers such as cereal fortified with iron, milk with added vitamin D and pasta enhanced with folic acid. While the original intent of these additives was to improve nutritional deficiencies in people without access to foods that naturally contain these nutrients, consequences now include an overabundance of particular nutrients for some and poor food choices due to a dependence on fortified foods for others. Ingesting naturally occurring nutrients in unfortified foods allows each nutrient to be absorbed together with the other vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients contained in that food, enabling them to work together within the body, according to the Harvard School of Public Health.

Aloe Vera Juice Allays Diabetes

esearchers from the David Grant Medical Center, at Travis Air Force Base, in Fairfield, California, have found that oral doses of aloe vera can reduce fasting blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), which indicates the average glucose level over the previous three months, in patients with Type 2 diabetes. Data from nine clinical studies that included 89 diabetes patients were analyzed. Findings suggest that patients with a fasting blood glucose level of more than 200 milligrams per deciliter experienced the greatest benefits from the aloe vera.

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esearchers from Ohio State University, in Columbus, started with data from 6,432 participants in the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth, conducted in 1979, to study the impact that early job satisfaction has upon health as we age. The new study examined reports of job satisfaction on a scale of one (dislike very much) to four (like very much) for participants between the ages of 25 and 39. Then they compared the responses to mental and physical health reports measured after the participants turned 40. Those that reported low job satisfaction throughout their 20s and 30s exhibited higher levels of emotional problems, depression, sleep problems and excessive worry. Individuals that started out satisfied with their jobs but became less satisfied over time also faced sleep and anxiety difficulties, but exhibited less depression. The participants that reported increasing job satisfaction in their 20s and 30s reported fewer mental health problems. The correlation between physical health after 40 and early job satisfaction was not as strong, but university associate professor of sociology Hui Zheng notes, “Increased anxiety and depression could lead to cardiovascular or other health problems that won’t show up until they are older.”

I’m not interested in my legacy. I made up a word:

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‘live-acy.’ I’m more interested in living. ~John Glenn

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

Heave Ho

Food Sensitivities

Abandoned and lost fishing gear such as traps, crab pots and nets litter the ocean floor in coastal areas worldwide, continuing to attract, entrap and kill fish and other marine life. The Associated Press reports that global nonprofits, governments and companies are engaged in efforts to retrieve and recycle as many of the items as possible to protect the environment, save marine life and reduce hazards to marine navigation. A 2009 United Nations report estimated there are 640,000 tons of discarded fishing nets deep below the ocean surface worldwide. Recommended solutions include degradable panels on traps that break down and allow trapped marine life to escape. International agreements prohibit dumping fishing equipment at sea; yet in England, small vessels can amass landfill charges of roughly $700 per year, giving them an incentive to ditch broken gear. Pascal van Erp, a Dutch diver alarmed by the amount of equipment he’s encountered, founded the Ghost Fishing Foundation to tackle the issue. He says, “It’s found in all seas, oceans and inland waters at all depths, along the beach and under the sand. I don’t think the problem can be resolved completely, but we can keep it from getting worse by showing the problem to the public and the authorities.” Industry experts and scientists estimate that commercial fishermen annually lose about 10 percent of their traps due to bad weather.

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Hydrogen Conversion From Water Making Gains Scientists at KTH Royal Institute of Technology, in Stockholm, report that they have finally unlocked a major barrier to exploiting a renewable energy source through extracting pure hydrogen from water. Because the best-performing catalysts for electrochemical oxidation, or “water splitting”, are expensive precious metals, the research team led by KTH Professor Licheng Sun developed molecular catalysts for water oxidation with an efficiency approaching that of natural photosynthesis comprising common, abundant elements, all of which could help change the economics of large-scale hydrogen fuel production. Meanwhile, Daniel Nocera, a professor of energy at Harvard University, and Pamela Silver, a professor of biochemistry and systems biology at Harvard Medical School, have co-created a system that uses solar energy to split water molecules and hydrogen-eating bacteria to produce liquid fuels. Their paper, whose lead authors include post-doctoral fellow Chong Liu and graduate student Brendan Colón, was recently published in Science. “This is a true artificial photosynthesis system,” says Nocera. “Previously, people were using artificial photosynthesis for water-splitting, but this is a true A-to-Z system, and we’ve greatly exceeded the efficiency of photosynthesis in nature.”

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Abandoned and Lost Fishing Gear Pollutes the Seas

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February 2017

Veggie Tales

Selfies Promote Animal Cruelty and Death Zachary Crockett, of Pricenomics.com, has found that since 2014, 49 people were killed in attempts to take pictures of themselves with wild creatures. Although there are no statistics on how many animals have been harmed due to selfies, wildlife organizations such as Care for the Wild International are appealing to the public to stop using animals as props. Visitors to China’s Yunnan Wild Animal Park lured captive peacocks from their enclosure and grabbed them by their tails. The birds died as a result. Another group of people at a beach in Argentina was filmed mobbing a baby Franciscana dolphin, an endangered species, while taking pictures, resulting in its death likely through shock and severe dehydration from being removed from the water for too long. Due to the high demand by tourists to take pictures with wild animals, special photographic settings are popping up in Mexico, Europe and Morocco. However, the Association for British Travel Agents stated that no legitimate sanctuary would allow animals to be used as photo props.

Fungus Among Us Genetically Altered Mushrooms Approved for Consumption

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Watch the Birdie

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A recent study from the University of Western Australia has found that plants regularly react to and emit sounds through a series of clicks produced by their roots, and that such inter-flora communication may be essential to their survival. Evolutionary biologist Monica Gagliano, who made the discovery, listened to the roots of young corn plants and found that they regularly produced sounds in the range of 220Hz, a frequency audible to the human ear. Plants have been shown to influence each other in many ways through nanomechanical oscillations on a molecular scale. Gagliano remarks, “Scientists also know that plants use volatile chemicals to communicate with each other.” Another biological research team under the direction of Professor Olaf Kruse, Ph.D., scientific director of the Center for Biotechnology at Germany’s Bielefeld University, has shown that green algae not only engages in photosynthesis, but also has an alternative source of energy: It can draw it from other plants (Nature Communications). Gagliano comments, “Considering that entire forests are all interconnected by networks of fungi, maybe plants are using fungi the way we use the Internet.”

Repurposed Pallets

Texas Company Turns Wood Waste into Furniture Nearly 2 billion wooden pallets are currently in circulation in the U.S., consuming around 50 percent of the country’s annual hardwood harvest and representing more than 90 percent of the world’s shipping waste. PalletSmart, in Fort Worth, Texas, has been making furniture, home decor and custom projects out of repurposed pallets and other reclaimed material since 2012. Company co-founder John Zaskoda says, “As with any business, we are looking to grow, but want to be smart about it. For now, we are staying put, taking custom residential and commercial orders and producing top-notch furniture.” He sees the endeavor as proof that with hard work and consistency it’s possible to make trash into treasure. Source: PalletSmart360.com 16

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Plants Communicate with Sound

Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) is a new method of editing genomes of farm animals and food crops. White button mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus) that have been genetically modified to delay the natural browning process are the first CRISPRedited organisms to receive approval from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Yinong Yang, a plant pathologist from Penn State University, crafted the modified mushrooms by targeting the family of genes responsible for the browning effect seen in produce when sliced and exposed to oxygen. Yang was able to reduce the browning enzyme’s work by 30 percent and was granted approval from the USDA because no foreign or altered DNA was integrated into the mushroom genome. The department only assesses whether there’s a risk that the new modified variety of an organism could become a weed or “pest” to other plants. The mushrooms may still be subject to Food and Drug Administration or Environmental Protection Agency regulations. The National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine are in discussions about developing a new set of rules for the biotech industry in the next five to 10 years. Source: Nature.com

ecotip Laundry List

NA Fun Facts:

Following eco-friendly laundry tips can save on energy, water usage and utility bills, making it good for both the planet and the bank account. The laundry results, too, may be better for some loads. RealSimple.com advises that 90 percent of the energy consumed while running a wash load is used to heat the water, so the average household can eliminate as much as 350 pounds of carbon emissions and save about $40 annually by turning the knob to cold. It also notes that some proteinheavy stains, like perspiration and blood, can become more set into the fabric when washed in hot water, which can also shrink synthetic fibers. For sweat stains, DIYNatural.com suggests combining two tablespoons of cream of tartar, a few drops of lemon essential oil and water to make a paste. Mix and spread it on the stain, and then rub it in and let dry. Another pre-laundry option is to pour or spray a 3 percent solution of hydrogen peroxide onto the stain and then soak for about 30 minutes. Mildly soiled laundry doesn’t necessarily need hot water for adequate cleaning, reports the Mother Nature Network. It advises pre-soaking heavily soiled laundry in cold water for about an hour, adding four tablespoons of baking soda to loosen dirt and grime. “Responding quickly to stains always helps,” says Steve Boorstein, a Boulder, Colorado, clothing-care expert on his ClothingDoctor.com website. “For washable clothing, flush the stained area with cool water to remove any solid matter. Never rub the stain in order to avoid driving it deeper into the fabric.” Conserve more energy as well as water by always assembling a full load of laundry. Appliance performance can also make an eco-difference. Energy Star estimates that water savings of between 40 and 75 percent can be achieved with front-loading machines instead of top-loaders. Line drying wins over a clothes dryer in terms of freshness, energy use and kindness to the environment. Start with biodegradable and phosphate-free detergents made from plant- and vegetable-based ingredients.

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February 2017

PASSAGE Conscious Dying as a Transformative Healing Journey by Linda Sechrist

hen properly viewed, the thresholds of all of life’s transitional moments can be both emotionally and spiritually rewarding. Whether it involves marriage or birth, job loss or illness, gleaning insight from the experience can yield fresh perspective on how to live life more fully today, if we remain mindful and lovingly attentive through the process. Like birth, death is a transition we can wisely prepare for. In recent years, compassionate individuals and grassroots movements have emerged to help us conduct ourselves, heal and grow from losing a loved one or face our own passing. An increasing number of initiatives support a new model in palliative care that treats death not as a failure, but an expected aspect of 18

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the human experience. Each in its own way advocates for a grace-filled passage supported by dignified, caring and compassionate practices.

Profound Shift

The Conscious Dying Institute, in Boulder, Colorado, aims to restore death and dying to its natural place in the sacred circle of life. Its end-of-life literacy curriculum and certificate training programs are helping to create a new, wisdombased culture of healing teachers and end-of-life doulas that serve among the frontline caregivers and companions providing the comfort people want and need most. Founded by Tarron Estes, a healing artist, poet, Caritas coach and transformational learning educator, the institute is grounded in love, spiritual

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SACRED

openness, compassion and a universal field of consciousness. “Training is open to nurses, physicians, clinicians, caregivers, family members, healthcare teams and anyone else interested in exploring what it means to die consciously,” says Estes. It attends to the provider’s inner awakening and helps them strengthen their ability to give spiritual, emotional, physical and practical care to anyone, helping to relieve pain, regardless of diagnosis. “Rather than curative care, it’s all about seeking to increase precious, meaningful moments, a sense of spiritual sanctity, beauty, interconnectedness and appreciation of life for the families and patients they serve. An end-of-life doula at bedside assures that families and loved ones can focus on what is most important,” explains Estes, who believes that our true nature lives within us as an unblemished jewel. Helping individuals become comfortable talking about death is the work of Dr. Karen Wyatt, of Dillon, Colorado, founder of the End of Life University, an online interview series with end-of-life care experts. She provides a trustworthy loving environment in monthly death cafés. The author of What Really Matters: 7 Lessons for Living from the Stories of Dying expands the conversation through related articles and podcasts at eolUniversity.com. Death cafés benefit from Wyatt’s experience as a hospice doctor. “There is never an agenda. Of the 10 to 12 people that generally join in, one is always a new caller, recently awakened to the idea of conscious dying or their own mortality. They’re seeking information and someone to talk to because family and friends aren’t interested. Some already embracing their mortality wish to explore their thoughts with others. Some callers join just to listen,” advises Wyatt. Because death in the West has become a commercialized, medical event with funeral home packages the norm, Wyatt recommends the National Home Funeral Alliance to those interested in a deeper understanding of options and resources for a gentler model. The nonprofit, grassroots movement and its members, such as Sacred Crossings, in Los Angeles, seek to restore the lost

Exploring the Mystery

For more than 40 years, philosopher, psychologist and physician Raymond Moody’s life work has been acknowledging the mysteries and validating the unexplainable events at the end of life. His seminal bestseller Life After Life appeared in 1975. Lisa Smartt’s mentorship by Moody led them to co-found FinalWordsProject.org. She’s also authored Words at the Threshold, a study of the nonsensical, metaphorical and paradoxical language and visions of the dying. Moody and Smartt agree that by better understanding the unique language patterns related to end of life we can share more deeply and build bridges with our beloveds throughout the dying process. “When we do so, we offer greater support to the dying and ameliorate our own experience of loss as they cross the threshold,” remarks Smartt. Like William Peters, founder of the Shared Crossings Project, in Santa Barbara, California, they caution that compassionate etiquette during events at death is important. “Assume that levels of awareness exist in the dying so that our energy and presence are felt and our voices heard,” advises Moody. “Respect your words and actions, regardless of the person’s state of consciousness. Be a compassionate listener and validate their vision. Don’t pretend to intellectualize or explain anything.”

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art and healing ritual of a home funeral by preserving the rights of families to provide home after-death care. Supporting and educating interested families is the mission of Sacred Crossings founder Rev. Olivia Rosemarie Bareham. The certified death midwife and home funeral guide draws from her experiences as an auxiliary nurse and hospice volunteer to assist families with end-of-life planning, death midwifery and arrangements for an at-home vigil and funeral, as well as cremation and burial choices. “We also offer sacred singing to help ease a loved one’s transition. Music by a bedside soloist or choir before, during and after death can be deeply relaxing and comforting, and even provide pain relief,” advises Bareham.

We rediscover that in order to die well, we must live well. Dying gracefully is the result of a mindful, day-to-day journey—a culmination of informed choices, honest discussions and deference to the hallowed fragility of nature’s life-death cycles. ~William Rosa Dianne Gray, president and executive director of the Elisabeth Kübler-Ross Foundation, also owns Hospice and Healthcare Communications. “The dying often wish to leave here surrounded by peace and harmony. They choose to let go of contentiousness and often wish family members would do the same, which is facilitated by mapping out Advance Directives according to the final wishes of the patient,” says Gray. Questions she frequently addresses in public talks and Death Over Dinner party conversations include: the necessity of finishing unfinished business; bringing closure to unresolved relationship issues; finding words to express our compassion; soothing the sense of impending loss; and managing to take only love with us to the other side, yet leave enough of it behind to help loved ones through their grieving process. She cautions that no matter how well we plan for death, things don’t always go as planned.

“Sometimes no matter how many advance care conversations have taken place, discord can dismantle the best laid plans. It requires the tough work of compassionate communications. Friends and families need to remember that this is the patient’s end-of-life experience, not theirs. It is possible to find peace in the midst of conflict, understanding that the one leaving overwhelmingly wishes for a peaceful passing, including peace within the family.” The Death Over Dinner initiative, founded by Michael Hebb in 2013, has been hosted by groups in more than 20 countries to help people engage in conversations on “how we want to die”—the most vital and costly discussion Americans aren’t having (DeathOverDinner.org/stories).

Practical Plans

The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and its 360 Degrees of Financial Literacy program offer a free downloadable national Guide to Financial Decisions: Implementing an End-of-Life Plan at Tinyurl.com/EssentialPlanNeeds. It includes basic descriptions of issues that arise as we age beyond retirement and details the critical documents needed for the individual, dependents, property, assets, estate planning, wills and trusts. It also addresses issues related to advance, treatment and do-notresuscitate directives, insurance, types of funerals and costs, and Social Security, Medicare and veterans’ benefits. Guidelines suggest consulting with a certified public accountant or personal financial planning specialist. The latest innovation is the blessing of a living funeral, a celebration of life while the honoree is present to hear the eulogies, praises and farewells before they depart. AgingWithDignity.org provides a downloadable Five Wishes document, a popular advance directive, or living will that covers personal, spiritual, medical and legal aspects. It’s easy to use and can serve as a family guide to prompt conversations about personal care preferences in the event of serious illness. New York Times journalist Mark Leibovich wrote about how Massachusetts Senator Edward Kennedy chose to spend his final weeks in pursuit of a “good ending.” As death approached,

natural awakenings

February 2017

As many as 80 percent of us say we want to die at home.

Writing Our Legacy

~CNN

by Linda Sechrist

Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Connect at ItsAllAboutWe.com.

n their books Caring for the Dying and Having the Last Say, authors Henry FerskoWeiss and Alan Gelb, respectively, advocate reviewing our life and writing a short narrative to explore its value as we approach our final act of Earth’s play. Processing experiences from the past and what they mean at this juncture presents us an opportunity to achieve greater clarity and integrate them in a positive way in our life story. According to Fersko-Weiss, it has the power to reduce depression, increase life satisfaction, promote acceptance of self and enhance integrity of spirit, no matter what phase of life we are in. The harvesting of life experiences should reflect our true humanity—flaws and all—and what we’ve learned through mistakes and failures, as well as triumphs. Conveying a compelling mythic family story, values we’ve lived by and our embrace of meaningful relationships will help the people we know understand that, for all its difficulties and complexities, life is worth living. Our narrative, whether recorded as an essay or scripted video, becomes an act of praise for the gift of the life we’ve led, imperfect as it may have been. It can also serve as a potential keepsake that passes along life lessons and values from one generation to another. Gelb suggests that summing up what’s most important to us in 500 to 1,000 words can be an experience to savor and enjoy at a reflective time in life, an opportunity to capture our legacy and even serve as our own eulogy. When we want a loved one no longer here to feel near to us and hear them one last time, it’s a way for them to literally have the last say, he adds.

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Kennedy told friends that he wanted to take stock of his life and enjoy the gift of his remaining days with the people he loved most. As a result, he continued enjoying his morning ritual of reading newspapers while drinking coffee, playing with his dogs, watching James Bond movies with his wife and holding family dinners and sing-alongs near nightly. He reveled in his bedside view of Nantucket Sound, sailed when he could and ate lots of his favorite ice cream. His mantra was, “Every day is a gift.” “As our time winds down, we all seek comfort in simple pleasures—companionship, everyday routines, the taste of good food, the warmth of sunlight on our faces,” remarks Boston’s Dr. Atul Gawande in Being Mortal. “If we strive in our final months for independence, companionship, mindful attention, dignity, wisdom, joy, love and freedom from pain, we have the power to make those days less miserable, confusing and frightening.” In these many ways, we can manage to gently embrace and tenderly navigate life’s final transition with grace and love.

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In the O-Zone Oxygen Therapy Heals a Host of Ills

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by Valerie Burke

s safe and trusted as hyperbaric (high pressure) oxygen therapy, ozone therapy also harnesses the healing power of oxygen. Since the 1950s, its popularity has increased around the world. Today, more than 45,000 physicians in 50 countries administer ozone therapy to address ailments ranging from endodontic infections and herniated disk pain to arterial plaque and Lyme disease. According to the American Academy of Ozonotherapy, the widespread medical use of ozone began in Germany and has since spread across Europe as an alternative treatment for antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The academy notes that allopathic physicians caution against ozone therapy largely due to misinformation and a lack of understanding regarding its efficacy, side effects, expense and safety, even though published international studies as well as U.S. clinical trials have shown it can be used instead of more expensive and dangerous methods such as surgery or pharmaceuticals. Therapeutic ozone has a sound safety record and no toxic effects have been observed from proper clinical use (Journal of the American Medical Association). Occasional reported side effects are slight

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weakness, dizziness or drowsiness for short periods of time during or after treatment. Rare allergic skin reactions like nettle rash are possible with local applications, although occurrences are mild and quick to resolve. Ozone is an oxidant. Ozone therapy, like exercise, creates health benefits by delivering measured doses of oxidative stress that activate the body’s internal antioxidant systems. The primary natural enzyme in ozone therapy is superoxide dismutase, which stimulates another enzyme called telomerase that keeps DNA young by maintaining the telomere at the end of each DNA strand. A study from Cuba’s University of Havana of herniated disc patients found that ozone therapy provided both oxidative protection and pain relief. Such properties make medical ozone therapy a safe and effective treatment for many infections. It’s been shown to be particularly effective for sinus and endodontic infections (Iranian Endodonics Journal), osteonecrosis of the jaw, ear infections, hepatitis (Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine), cystitis, HIV, intestinal and blood infections and Lyme disease. Staff of the Sophia Health Institute, in Woodinville, Washington, report remarkably fast results treating such chronic complex infections by

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following intensive intravenous (IV) ozone protocols, with individualized systemic support. Ozonotherapy is a prime treatment for infections, especially viral. Leading experts in oxidative therapy Dr. Robert Rowen, who practices in Santa Rosa, California, and Dr. Howard Robins, director of The Healing Center, in New York City, had good success administering treatment during the Ebola crisis in Sierra Leone. In addition to many patients helped, “It’s been reported that ozone therapy rapidly cured five patients with Ebola during the outbreak,” says Rowen. Ozone therapy is now used to relieve arthritis, neuropathy, degenerative joint and disk disease, fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue. A pilot study led by the Universidad de Granada, Spain, saw improvement in the physical and depressive symptoms of fibromyalgia. “Ozone is also effective in treating osteoarthritic knees and, via injection, arthritic hips,” says Rowen. Other individuals describe their experiences of overcoming various diseases using ozone therapy at YouTube.com/user/ RobertRowenMD/videos. One of the most impressive evidence-based applications is relief from the pain of herniated disks, particularly lumbar. More than one meta-analysis deemed ozone treatment an effective and extremely safe procedure, with pain and functional outcomes equal to or better than surgery and far lower complication rates (less than 0.1 percent), along with significantly shorter recovery times (Pain Physician; American Journal of Neuroradiology). According to the Journal of Natural Science, Biology and Medicine, oxygen/ ozone therapy used in dentistry offers three fundamental forms of applications to treat oral tissue—ozonated water, ozonated olive oil and oxygen/ozone gas. Ozonated water and olive oil have proved to be an ideal delivery system. Non-toxic and simple to generate, ozone therapy is coming of age as a viable option for both the treatment and prevention of illnesses. Valerie Burke is a freelance health writer in Olympia, Washington, versed in integrative medicine with a master’s degree in nursing science.

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natural awakenings

February 2017

wisewords

Transforming the Way Women Relate to Men An Interview with Alison Armstrong by April Thompson

or 25 years, relationship expert Alison Armstrong has worked to evolve society by changing the way women relate to men. Her yearning to understand the opposite sex was born from personal challenges, including a failed marriage in her 20s. She began studying men on her own, at the age of 30, beginning with the question, “What if men are responding to women?” What started out as a personal inquiry has become a lifelong pursuit and she’s shared her findings with millions of men and women worldwide. Armstrong, co-founder and CEO of PAX Programs, addresses gender differences, sexuality and relationships. She has written three books, including The Queen’s Code, and speaks to interpersonal insights through workshops, webinars and teleclasses, including free recordings and articles at UnderstandMen.com. Armstrong and her second husband have been happily married for 23 years and now live in Colorado.

Which core differences between men and women cause everyday misunderstandings? The biggest source of mischief is denying that differences exist at all. Both men and women tend to assume that each is a version of the other, which creates significant misunderstandings. We interact with our partners by doing 24

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or saying what works for us. When that doesn’t get the response we’re expecting, we usually draw incorrect conclusions and act in counterproductive ways. For example, men and women relate to feelings differently. Women often make life decisions based on their feelings about something or someone. To men, who tend to rely on facts and set aside feelings, this approach can seem irrational, and relating to women as irrational has predictably bad outcomes.

Where does a couple best start to heal the communication divide? The most powerful thing men and women can do is to address misunderstandings with openness and curiosity rather than assuming we know why our partner did or said something. We should ask ourselves, “What if there’s a good reason for that?” Don’t assume that what’s true for her is also true for him, and vice versa. Once a couple chooses to give each other the benefit of the doubt, a few simple changes can further open up communication. Saying “I need” instead of “I want” will make a huge difference. Because being “needy” is considered unattractive, women avoid this word, not realizing that it connects with a man’s instinct to provide. When asking for something, it’s important to say what it would

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provide us. For him, there needs to be a reward equal to or greater than the energy he’ll have to expend. Years ago, I described to my husband in colorful detail the experience of falling into the toilet in the middle of the night; he took it upon himself to make sure that never again happens to the women he loves.

What’s the secret to navigating partners’ differing needs and drives for physical intimacy? The secret is to stop leaving our sex lives to the whims of biology, or making decisions based on whether we “feel like it.” Waiting for a time when both partners feel like it, the kids are at Grandma’s and we’re not too tired leads to sex happening too rarely. Delicious sexual partnerships begin when we decide to stop waiting and instead work on creating the circumstances that put us in the mood. One example is learning to offer “dessert”. Using the desire for food as a metaphor for the desire for sex, we’re often trying to eat together when only one partner is hungry. But dessert sounds delicious anytime; examples might be massage or kissing or other physical activities. Find out what reliably perks up a partner’s interest and put that on the menu.

How can a woman satisfy a man’s desire to provide without sacrificing her independence? American culture tells women that being low-maintenance matters most. Yet, when we allow our partners to fulfill our needs, it can help us unlock our own greatness, as well as theirs. Men are driven to provide for their loved ones and denying them such opportunities takes away their life’s pursuit, which can be emasculating. By asking for what we need, women create opportunities for partnership, satisfaction and fulfillment for both partners. When we allow the men in our life to contribute to us and learn to receive graciously, we discover that it doesn’t diminish our power. Connect with freelance writer April Thompson, of Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com.

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greenliving

Sustainably Stylish Home Relax into Nurturing Furnishings by April Thompson

e all relish a cozy nest, whether that means lightfilled views, the embrace of form-fitting sofas and chairs or plush rugs that snuggle bare feet. A beautiful, comfortable home that reflects our personal style and embodies our values can be achieved by learning the origin of furnishings and investing in sustainably made pieces that will stand the test of time, say experts. “Furnishing a home ethically doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or style,” says JD Doliner, a business consultant in Charlotte, North Carolina. Doliner’s home is graced with 18th- and 19th-century antiques, organic cotton mattresses, comfy custommade chairs from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified wood and handmade wool rugs certified child-labor-free by GoodWeave. “They give me peace of mind as a humanitarian and environmentalist,” she says.

Signs of Progress

Debbie Hindman, marketing director for Associates III Interior Design, in Denver, is working with increasingly knowledgeable clients like Doliner asking for sustainably sourced products. Manufacturers, in turn, are upping transparency about product origins, realizing it can provide a competitive edge, she notes. “We look at the story behind a product and make sure that it aligns with both our company’s and clients’ values,” says Hindman, a co-author of Sustainable Residential Interiors. “We ask questions like, ‘Are workers paid a fair wage? Was the product made with local materials? What is the story behind the company’s founding?’” The Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC) coalition of manufacturers, retailers and designers partners with businesses and informs consumers to increase environmentally responsible choices in the marketplace. Its 400 members commit to sustainability and transparency in their business practices and 26

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submit an annual action plan showing such efforts. Headquartered in Edenton, North Carolina, the council strives to minimize industry carbon emissions and remove unsustainable materials and harmful chemical ingredients from residential and commercial furnishings. “The residential furnishings industry frequently takes raw materials from one continent, processes and manufactures on another to be consumed on yet another, leaving a huge environmental footprint,” says Susan Inglis, the council’s executive director. As the third largest consumer of wood, these manufacturers bear significant responsibility for preserving the world’s forest ecosystems and fighting deforestation, reports Inglis.

Savvy Shoppers

To make informed decisions, furniture shoppers need to ask how, where, from what and by whom a potential purchase is made. Lisa Beres, a healthy home expert and former interior designer in Newport Coast, California, and author of Just Green It! advises not taking product claims at face value. Ask if the product has earned a certification like the Global Organic Textile Standard for fabrics or GreenGuard, which verifies low levels of chemical emissions. Not all natural products are sustainably produced; cotton, for example, is one of the most heavily sprayed crops. Look for certified organic cotton as a responsible textile choice. Beres also suggests renewable fiber sources like bamboo or hemp. “Natural latex is a sound alternative to foam fillers, offering good support and dust mite resistance,” says Beres. Specific animal-based products like down feathers used in bedding can provoke allergies and be produced inhumanely, Beres cautions. Products certified to the Responsible Down Standard, which protects the well-being and

welfare of geese tapped for their manufacture, offer a humane choice for fluffy down comforters. Look for well-crafted furniture made from locally sourced, reclaimed or FSC-certified wood instead of particleboard, which usually contains formaldehyde and may be made from unsustainably harvested wood. Sustainable furnishings are both better for the planet and can make a home distinctive. Natural pieces like a countertop made from reclaimed, rough-hewn wood provide a unique beauty that mass-manufactured pieces can’t match and also showcase the material’s natural form and feeling. Her firm promotes durable, timeless pieces over trendy furnishings that a client might discard in a few years. When it’s time to retire a piece of furniture, find a new home for it, whether by donating to a charity or reselling through a consignment store. While cutting corners on home furnishing choices can be tempting, especially when shopping on a budget, remember that today’s quality pieces may become tomorrow’s cherished heirlooms. “Some will spend money on the latest gadget, but hesitate to invest in a great piece of furniture or a quality mattress they’ll spend much of their life sitting or sleeping on,” says Beres. “It’s not a splurge; you’re investing in your health and protecting Earth’s precious resources. It all comes full circle.” Connect with freelance writer April Thompson, of Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com.

Toxic Furnishings Alert

oday’s mass-produced furniture may contain hidden chemicals such as formaldehyde-based adhesives, flame retardants and other volatile organic compounds (VOC) linked to serious health issues. Researchers from the Natural Resources Defense Council found 45 toxic chemicals in indoor dust, 10 of which were present in at least 90 percent of households sampled. “These chemicals enter the air as materials in the furnishings break down,” explains healthy home expert Lisa Beres. “Because we spend an average of 90 percent of our lives indoors, the exposure to harmful chemicals is troubling.” Beres advises shoppers to be wary of synthetic fabrics, which not only consume nonrenewable resources like petroleum, but may also contain toxic dyes, heavy metals or chemicals like Teflon. Foam and other fillings in mattresses, sofas and chairs are often a hidden source of off-gassing VOCs. The Sustainable Furnishing Council’s seal of approval and member list at SustainableFurnishings.org are a good place to start to find companies committed to offering healthier alternatives that include transparency and responsibility in their manufacturing practices.

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February 2017

KEEP DECAY AWAY

Kids Do Best with Holistic Dentistry by Linda Sechrist

ccording to a 2012 New York Times story, “Preschoolers in Surgery for a Mouthful of Cavities,” more dentists nationwide are recommending that children be administered general anesthesia at hospitals due to the severity of decay. Such extensive dental work on children is largely preventable. Wise parents encourage their children to develop healthy habits such as brushing teeth at least twice a day; eating fewer sugary snacks and brushing afterwards; limiting fruit juice intake to four ounces a day; and sucking on bacteria-killing xylitol lollipops. Such a routine combined with an initial dentist visit by their first birthday can reduce dental costs, including hospital treatment for extreme decay that can cost thousands of dollars. Other ways to reduce the too-common incidence of six to 10 childhood cavities include breastfeeding only until baby teeth erupt; avoiding transmission of an anaerobic oral bacteria carried in saliva that’s the leading cause of tooth 28

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decay; early interceptive treatment to avoid crowding of teeth; and consulting a nutritionist.

Breastfeeding

Andie Pearson, a doctor of dental medicine and owner of Gaimed Dental Spa, in Wilmette, Illinois, tells mothers that in the descent through the birth canal, their baby ingests the bacteria necessary to digest breast milk. As teeth later emerge, their gut bacteria also become able to digest solid food. “By the time a child has all 20 baby teeth, between 18 and 30 months, they no longer have the microbial ecology for digesting breast milk and should be weaned. Researchers from the University of CaliforniaBerkeley have found that the more frequently a mother breastfed her child beyond the second birthday during the day, the greater the child’s risk of severe early tooth decay,” says Pearson. Development of facial muscles and bone structure is dependent on chewing and gnawing. “Teething rings facilitate chewing that builds stronger

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teeth and creates better alignment,” she explains. If childhood tooth growth is delayed, Pearson often suggests a chiropractic adjustment if all other developmental areas are normal. “It can help the body relax so that teeth erupt naturally,” she advises.

Mouth-to-Mouth Susan Maples, a doctor of dental surgery and owner of Total Health Dentistry, in Holt, Michigan, notes that Streptococcus mutans is the leading reason children are hospitalized today. “Cavities are formed when the rate of decay of the teeth caused by the lactic acid produced by the bacteria exceeds the rate of repair initiated by the phosphate and calcium ions in saliva,” she explains. The unwanted bacteria is transmitted through saliva, which is why adults should avoid licking spoons or tasting foods before offering them to children between the ages of 1 and 3. “This type of bacteria thrives on sugar, so children shouldn’t have lots of sugary drinks and

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healthykids

sweet treats,” says Maples. Mouth kissing presents a similar risk.

Early Intervention

Kris Kammer, a doctor of dental surgery and owner of Gums of Steel Oral Hygiene Transformation, in Middleton, Wisconsin, learned early in his career to avoid mercury amalgam fillings and early extractions of bicuspids for orthodontic purposes, and that xylitol reduces buildup of plaque bacterial biofilm on teeth. A study published in the Journal of Dental Research, supported by findings of a metastudy appearing in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dentistry “shows that regular use of xylitol over six months significantly reduces the Streptococcus mutans population,” he says. He also suggests early interceptive treatments which can be performed by general dentists. “Parents don’t need to wait for children’s teeth to come in crooked and crowded. These issues can be addressed with a removable appliance that expands the arch in the roof dome, influences bone growth and makes room for incoming teeth,” says Kammer. Early proper diet may also help prevent crowding of teeth as well as malocclusion, or misalignment of upper and lower teeth, according to Pearson.

Role Modeling “Parents play a pivotal role in their children’s dental hygiene. They influence how their children care for their teeth, behave in the dentist’s office and feel about dental visits,” advises Pentti Nupponen, a doctor of dental medicine and owner of the Halifax Center for Holistic & Cosmetic Dentistry, in Halifax, Pennsylvania. Children should be made familiar with dentistry and taught that they are responsible for their dental hygiene from around age 1. Nupponen explains his gentle method: “I encourage mothers to bring their children along for dental appointments so that they can watch me from their mother’s lap. Generally, by the time they are alone in my chair, they aren’t frightened.” Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Connect at ItsAllAboutWe.com.

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February 2017

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INDOOR KITCHEN GARDENING

Easy-Grow Microgreens Are Big on Nutrition by Barbara Pleasant

ast, fun to grow and packed with flavor and nutrition, tender young microgreens can go from seed to table in as little as a week. Close cousins to edible sprouts, microgreens are grown in potting soil or seed-starting mixes instead of plain water. They customarily grow beyond the sprout stage until they have produced a true leaf or two. After that, harvesting is a simple matter of snipping off fresh greens. “You don’t need a green thumb to grow microgreens, only patience and persistence,” says Mark Mathew Braunstein, in Old Saybrook, Connecticut, author of Microgreen Garden. Even first-timers can expect good results. For example, the thin shoots grown from popcorn taste like a more vibrant form of sweet corn, and pea shoots work well in wraps, salads and virtually any Asian dish. Like high-fiber wheatgrass, “Microgreens are great for juicing, either by themselves or mixed with other veggies,” says Rita Galchus (aka Sprout Lady Rita), proprietor of The Sprout House, in Lake Katrine, New York, which sells organic seeds for microgreens and sprouts. “You can add a handful of microgreens to a smoothie to 30

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ramp up the nutrition without changing its taste or texture,” she notes.

Good Picks

The seeds of dozens of plants from alfalfa to wheat can be grown as microgreens. If seeking to maximize nutrition, put red cabbage and cilantro on the planting list. Scientists at the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Quality Laboratory, in Beltsville, Maryland, tested the nutritional properties of 25 microgreens; red cabbage, cilantro, garnet amaranth and green daikon radish had the highest concentrations of vitamin C, carotenoids, and vitamins K and E, respectively. Microgreens generally provide three times as much nutrition per weight as the same food eaten in its mature state. “People underestimate the intense flavor of microgreens and might try planting mustard greens or radish varieties even if they don’t like spicy flavors,” say Elizabeth Millard, an organic farmer in Northfield, Minnesota, and author of Indoor Kitchen Gardening. For beginners, large seeds that sprout quickly such as sunflowers, buckwheat and snow peas are good choices because

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they produce big, robust sprouts with mild flavor. Many people also grow microgreens for their pets. “Cats tend to prefer mild, sweet-tasting microgreens such as red clover, alfalfa and flax seed,” advises Galchus. “They also love grasses grown from hard wheat, whole barley and rye. Cats cannot digest the grass, but use it to bring up indigestible matter that might be lodged in their stomachs.”

Clean Greens

Microgreens grow so fast that there’s little time for them to run into trouble. Commercial growers use large trays, but home gardeners can also use pretty coffee mugs or tofu boxes rescued from the recycling bin. Drainage holes in the container bottoms work well when growing beets or other slow-sprouting seeds, but are less important for fastgrowing sunflowers or wheat. Work only with organic seeds. Seeds sold for sprouting or bulk grains from a local health food store cost much less than the larger, robust seeds produced for gardening. Soak seeds in water overnight to jump-start germination. Place an inch or so of potting soil

Organic Seed Sources Check with these online companies for any seeds unavailable locally. SproutHouse.com, 800-777-6887 SproutPeople.org, 877-777-6887 akepong srichaichana/Shutterstock.com

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or seed-starting mix in the container, and then scatter the plump seeds on top. “A common beginner’s error is to sow seeds too thickly,” says Braunstein. Sown seeds should not touch each other, with most spaced about one-quarter-inch apart. Spritz with water and cover with a plate or plastic wrap. At the first signs of sprouting, water and move the pot to a sunny spot near a bright window or within two inches of a bright grow light. Dribble in small amounts of water to maintain moisture over the next few days. To harvest, cut in bunches about one-half inch above the soil line. Microgreens store well in the refrigerator for a couple of days, but are best eaten fresh. For both beginners and experienced gardeners, growing microgreens provides a close-up look at seed germination, one of nature’s miracles. Award-winning garden writer Barbara Pleasant’s new book Homegrown Pantry: A Gardener’s Guide to Selecting the Best Varieties & Planting the Perfect Amounts for What You Want to Eat Year Round, will be out next month from Storey Publishing.

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HEART-TO-HEART WITH A HORSE

Their Gentle Empathy Helps Us Heal by Sandra Murphy

hysical therapists have long used horses to help patients improve balance or strengthen core muscles. Now they’re helping to teach empathy. Given a horse’s significant size, sometimes distracting surroundings and the need for safety, humans need to learn the animal’s non-verbal cues, and to regulate their own. Close interaction without riding is proving to be helpful for those dealing with addictions, trauma and grief, and for employees to improve their communication and teamwork skills. Kelly Wendorf and Scott Strachan, co-founders of Equus, in Santa Fe, work with both individuals and organizations. Strachan emphasizes, “This isn’t magic. Horses reflect our feelings back to us. If we’re nervous, the horse will be more skittish.” “We’ve had executives arrive with cell phones firmly in hand and leave holding soggy tissues instead,” comments Wendorf. “For them, it was unexpectedly emotional.” For addicts caught up in a debilitating cycle, “Equine therapy gets the brain firing in a new direction,” says Constance Scharff, Ph.D., director of 32

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addiction research at Cliffside Malibu, in California. “Patients may say they’re fine when they’re not, but you can’t lie to a horse. They have boundaries; if you’re angry, a horse won’t tolerate your behavior and will walk away.” Scharff notes, “Equine therapy is complementary to psychotherapy medicine, and one tool we use in approaching addiction. Depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder can be the underlying issue, so we can address it, to understand why the person became an addict.” Wendorf relates the story of an 18-year-old client facing body image issues. “Five horses approached her and touched her with their noses on her arms and legs. Where they touched was where she had been cutting herself to try to relieve her emotional pain.” “People feel a powerful connection when they let down their defenses and a horse responds,” says Sheryl Jordan, equestrian director at Salamander Resort & Spa, in Middleburg, Virginia. “Our Equi-Spective life lessons program brings self-awareness and the power to better

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control emotions. During the session, they may hug, pet and cry on the horse, but they leave the corral smiling.” The program teamed up with the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) serving bereaved military families. Kelly Griffith, a surviving sister of U.S. Marine Corps Major Samuel Griffith, points to the power of equine therapy in a video at Tinyurl.com/Equi-SpectiveVideo. Susan Wight, a former professional steeplechase rider and ambassador for TAPS in Leesburg, Virginia, says, “My husband was my riding coach. When he passed away, I was numb when facing decisions, but at the session, it felt like one of the horses was the one to choose. The initial flood of emotions and memories from being around horses again wasn’t pretty, but empathy is a specific language, and I’m grateful for the opportunity. Horses are a huge part of my life.” At Ranch Hand Rescue Counseling Center & Animal Sanctuary, in South Argyle, Texas, founder Bob Williams considers animal therapy a ministry. “We rescue abused and neglected farm animals, including horses that come into play when patients are not responding to usual therapies,” he says. “It’s important for damaged people to learn to live in the light, and our partnering with the special needs animals helps put them on the emotional path to health.” The rescue’s mission is to provide hope, healing and a sense of security for children and adults that have suffered severe trauma such as abuse, domestic violence and witnessing violent death (Tinyurl.com/RanchHandRescue Video). Riding Beyond’s four-session program, in Ashland, Oregon, is free to women recovering from the rigors of breast cancer treatment. Expenses are covered by donations from the community. German research published in the journal Psycho-Oncology reported that 82 percent of participating breast cancer patients studied displayed symptoms of PTSD following diagnosis. “They often don’t want to touch or be touched, and have trouble with

friendships and intimate relationships; issues that can cripple a woman’s life,” says Trish Broersma, founding director and a certified therapeutic riding professional at Riding Beyond (Tinyurl.com/RidingBeyondVideo). “The medical team that saved their lives doesn’t treat these issues.” The first client, unfamiliar with horses, met Mystic, who touched her on the site of the former tumor. She says, “Even weeks later, when I brought her image to mind when stressed, sad or even happy, it brought feelings of contentment, peace and well-being.” Horses have been serving humans in many ways for centuries. Equine therapy shows they have even more to give if we are open to receive. Connect with freelance writer Sandra Murphy at StLouisFreelanceWriter@ mindspring.com.

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February 2017

benefits of these minerals and protein promote good health throughout the body.

The Wonders of Bone Broth by Amy Nadeau

n the last couple of years, bone broth has been in the news a lot, touted as the newest and latest culinary and health fad. Food manufacturers have started selling it in co-ops and grocery stores as if it’s a brand new phenomenon. In fact, human beings have been making and consuming bone broth since the discovery of fire. Just a few generations ago, our grandparents would have used the leftover bones, skin, meat and fat from the family dinner to make rich, flavorful broth, stretching the weekly food budget into healthful and warming soups and stews, long before the availability of salt-ridden, commercially made canned broths and chemically laden cubes of dried broth flavoring composed mainly of MSG. Homemade bone broth is full of powerful nutrition making it a true superfood. Some of the benefits of sipping long-simmered broth are: Improved Gut Health - Bone broth contains copious quantities of gelatin, which lines the mucosal lining of the stomach, soothing and healing the digestive tract and easing symptoms 34

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of irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease and acid reflux. Healthy Skin - Collagen is another compound found in abundance in bone broth. One of the many things collagen does is keep the skin supple and firm. Bone broth also contains hyaluronic acid—the same thing found in many expensive skin creams—which promotes healthy skin and cell rejuvenation from the inside. Relief from Arthritis Pain - Two components of bone broth—glucosamine and chondroitin—are very effective arthritis remedies. These substances help build and maintain the integrity of cartilage, the rubbery substance acting as a cushion between the joints. Easily Absorbed Minerals and Amino Acids - When bones are simmered for many hours, the minerals and amino acids are liquidated, making them very easy for the body to absorb. Bone broth is very rich in the minerals magnesium, potassium, calcium and phosphorus, as well as the amino acids proline, arginine, glycine and glutamine. The

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HOW TO MAKE BONE BROTH Bone broth is very easy to make. The most difficult thing about it is waiting for it to be finished so that you can drink it. Here is a basic tutorial for chicken bone broth: Use a combination of fresh meaty bones like chicken backs, necks and feet as well as leftover bones from roasted chicken. It’s best to use bones from animals that have been naturally raised without hormones or antibiotics, pastured and organic if possible. You will need about five pounds of bones. Place the bones in an eight-quart pot with a large onion cut in half, a whole head of garlic cut in half, three stalks of chopped celery, three chopped carrots, three bay leaves, one tablespoon of black peppercorns and a small bunch of parsley. Add ¼ cup of raw apple cider vinegar. The vinegar helps to pull all of the goodness out of the bones. Cover the bones and vegetables with cold filtered water to about three inches below the top of the pot. Place the pot on the stove and bring to a boil. Turn the heat down so that the broth is just barely simmering and let it cook for at least eight hours. The longer you cook the bones the better, so you can leave them on the stove for up to 24 hours, adding water as needed to keep the level of liquid about four inches below the top of the pot. Strain the bones and vegetables out of the stock and then chill the stock. A layer of fat will form on top of your broth which can be removed just before use. Your bone broth is now ready. Use it to make soups and sauces or to just warm up with a pinch of salt and drink. For an added health bonus, stir a spoonful of coconut oil into the hot broth. This is a great way to start a cold winter morning in Minnesota—with a warm cup of bone broth every day. Amy Nadeau is a nutritional therapist, personal chef/caterer and educator who has worked in the food industry for more than 30 years. For more information, call 612-239-7525, email ChefAmyNutrition@ gmail.com or visit ChefAmyNutrition.com.

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FIT FOR LIFE How to Stay Healthy, Flexible and Strong by Aimee Hughes

“

hen thinking about the best forms of exercise as we enter midlife and beyond, we should first clarify some myths and preconceptions,” says Michael Spitzer, of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, biochemist, fitness expert and author of Fitness at 40, 50, 60 and Beyond. “In our society, there’s a mindset that once we pass our 40th year, it’s all downhill from there. Our metabolism slows and we gain weight, lose mobility and flexibility, deal with more aches and pains, experience shortness of breath and the list goes on.” According to Spitzer, this all can happen, but it’s more of a self-fulfilling prophecy than destiny. “Research with older people at both rehabilitation and nursing centers tells us that the human body wasn’t designed to begin a major decline in function until age 70, barring major illness or accidents along the way. Most of individual decline is due to lifestyle choices, not nature’s plan.” Spitzer teaches his clients that weight training is essential for every age group. “After age 30, most people lose between 0.5 to 1 percent of lean muscle fiber per year, which directly affects the basal metabolic rate. Much like a car engine, the more lean muscle mass

we have, the more energy our ‘engine’ uses, even when idling. If not prevented, by age 50, for example, we may have lost as much as 20 percent of the lean muscle fiber we had when we were 30.” He also recommends regular cardiovascular exercise. “Do a good round of cardio inside your target heart rate zone for 30 minutes at least three times a week. It’s vital for lung and heart health, the primary benefit of cardio exercise as opposed to just burning calories.” “For those in their 40s, I recommend high-intensity interval training such as burst training, along with a mind-body practice like power yoga or budokon,” says Nelson Pahl, of Northfield, Minnesota, managing editor of Longevity Times. “Vinyasa yoga, tai chi and cycling are ideal during our 50s, while hatha yoga, tai chi, or qigong and hiking work well in our 60s.” “Most of my clients are 70 and up,” notes Gwyneth Jones, an active aging specialist at the Carriage Club, in Kansas City, Missouri, who also trains physical therapists, rehabilitation specialists and movement educators. “They enjoy mixing up their daily exercise routines and look forward to

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fitbody

the support and encouragement of their classmates. Discussions include lighthearted wordplay and questions about anatomy and physiology.” Pahl urges everyone at every age, “Consume only whole foods, always.” He rarely drinks alcohol and begins every day with yoga and qigong. “Also, be sure to stay well hydrated,” adds Jones. “This will keep your joints healthy, skin clear and moist, digestion more efficient and detoxification of organ systems more effective. Add fresh lemon if you like.” Physical fitness is only one aspect of aging gracefully. Spiritual growth lifts and lightens any mental and emotional load, while supporting physical well-being. Spitzer also recommends, “Reading, learning to play a musical instrument, crafting activities, computer strategy games or doing other activities that require concentration or new problem-solving skills; all help the mind stay tuned up and sharp.” It’s always healthy to break out of normal routines and comfort zones, venture into new worlds, volunteer and do what makes our heart soar. Jones advises, “Choose activities that feel good, refreshing, include people you enjoy, and are done in pleasant environments. Don’t forget to revel in sunshine or a good book on a rainy day. Listen to music, play music, sing and dance every day.” Maturity brings benefits we can embrace with delight when we bring loving attention and happy novelty to life. Aimee Hughes, a freelance writer in Kansas City, MO, is a doctor of naturopathy and consultant for the Yandara Yoga Institute. Connect at ChezAimee@ gmail.com.

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inspiration

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KISSED BY KINDNESS by Emily Esfahani Smith

sychologist Ty Tashiro reports in The Science of Happily Ever After that only three in 10 couples remain in healthy, happy marriages. Psychologist John Gottman, in New York City, has studied couples for four decades seeking to understand successful relationships. He and his psychologist wife, Julie, founded The Gottman Institute that helps couples build and maintain loving, healthy relationships based on scientific studies. Using data from his Love Lab at the University of Washington, John separated thousands of couples into two groups: masters (still happy after six years) and disasters (separated or chronically unhappy in their marriages). One of Gottman’s studies watched 130 newlywed vacationing couples and found that partners regularly made bids for connection, requesting responses from their mate. Choices to “turn toward” or “turn away” revealed the level of engagement and respect in the relationship. Couples that divorced within six years had shown “turn toward” bids Ad.qxp_Layout 9/6/15 10:11 PM aCLB third of the time 2while couples stillPage 1

together responded to their partner’s emotional need nine times out of 10. An integral element is the spirit couples bring to the relationship: kindness and generosity or contempt, criticism and hostility. “There’s a key habit of mind that the masters have,” Gottman explains. “They are scanning the social environment for things they can appreciate and express thanks for. Disasters are scanning for partners’ mistakes.” People focused on criticizing miss 50 percent of positive things their partners are doing and see negativity when it’s absent. Deliberately ignoring their partner or responding minimally to opportunities for small moments of emotional connection devalues and kills a relationship. Kindness, conversely, glues couples together, making each partner feel cared for, understood, validated and loved. In a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers found that the more someone receives or witnesses kindness, the more they will be kind

themselves, creating upward spirals of love and generosity. Practicing kindness during a fight is vital. Letting contempt and aggression spiral out of control during a conflict can inflict irrevocable damage. “Kindness doesn’t mean that we don’t express anger,” Julie explains, “But it informs how we choose to express it. You can either throw spears or explain why you’re hurt and angry, which is the kinder path.” Kindness can also solidify the backbone of a relationship by being generous about our partner’s intention and avoiding misinterpreting what’s motivating their behavior. “Even if it’s executed poorly, appreciate the intent,” Tashiro advises. Clearly, if we want to have a stable, healthy relationship, exercise kindness early and often and let a spirit of generosity guide happy years together. Emily Esfahani Smith is the author of The Power of Meaning: Crafting a Life That Matters. Connect at EmilyEsfahaniSmith. com or on Twitter @emesfahanismith.

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)

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February 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.

Kids in the Kitchen – 1:30-2:15pm. Free. Parent/child “hands-on” cooking classes directed by a dietician. One adult must accompany children. Register early-limited class size. Cost $5/person. RWJ Health & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Rd, Hamilton. Register 609-584-5900. 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. Introduction to the hobby of geocaching as well as the ecology of winter. Track animals, meet winter weeds, talk with birds and much more. Appropriate for beginners or experienced cachers. Bring your own GPS unit and dress for walking on wintery trails. Cost $5/person. Watershed Center, 31 Titus Mill Rd, Pennington. 609-737-7592.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 5 Family Swim – 10am-noon. Goggles recommended. Wear swim cap if have long hair. Let instructor know of any medical conditions or other concerns. Cost $7/person. Schafer Sports Center, 5 Graphics Dr, Ewing. 609-393-5855.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 7 Snowshoeing Basics – 6:30-8pm. Free. Join experienced REI staff for a class on the basics of snowshoeing. Focus is on the appropriate selection of gear 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.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1

New Year, New You: Simple Tips to Create Healthy Habits – 7pm. Free. Make 2017 the year you find and maintain your ideal weight, have more energy, and feel amazing. Presented by Michelle Obermeier of Real Moms, Real Health. Registration required. MCLS Robbinsville, 42 RobbinsvilleAllentown Rd, Robbinsville. 609-259-2150.

tion & Outreach. Registration required. MCLS Robbinsville, 42 Robbinsville-Allentown Rd, Robbinsville. 609-259-2150.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9

Unity and Diversity – 10:30am. Being One with All and, at the same time, expressing your unique self, may seem a bit schizophrenic, but not when we understand who we truly are. Center for Spiritual Living Princeton is a warm, dynamic community of spiritually minded people. Sunday Transformation Service, followed by refreshments and conversation. Services are held at the Princeton Masonic Lodge, 345 River Rd (Rte. 605), Princeton. 609-924-8422.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 6 Basic Photo Editing with Pixlr – 10:30am. Free. Learn to make simple edits to your pictures. Registration required. MCLS, Twin Rivers Branch, 276 Abbington Dr, East Windsor. 609-443-1880. Non-Pharmacological Osteoarthritis Pain Relief – 7pm. Free. Do nutritional supplements, magnets, home laser treatments and other non-drug treatments really help to reduce arthritis pain? Find out what the medical research shows with Brian Culp, MD, board certified in Orthopedic Surgery. Presented by Princeton HealthCare System Community Educa-

Marketing Your Value: Tips on Finding a Job – 7pm. Free. Learn how to market your value! Gain practical knowledge you can apply immediately as you determine your next career step. Presented by Dr. Michael Edmondson, Director, Center for Continuing Studies at Mercer County Community College. Registration required. MCLS Robbinsville, 42 Robbinsville-Allentown Rd, Robbinsville. 609259-2150.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10 Kids in the Kitchen – 1:30-2:15pm. See February 1 listing. Hamilton. In Search of Owls II – 7-8:30pm. Enjoy a presentation 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.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11 Reiki Level II Certification – 10am-6pm. Deepen the effect and experience of Reiki learning the use of three symbols and distance healing. Pre-requisite: Reiki Level I certification. Pam Jones RN. *Class awards 7 nursing contact hours. Cost $160/person. RWJ Health & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Rd, Hamilton. Register 609-584-5900.

Open Your Heart and Home.

Become a Mentor.

Learn more, Call 856-533-4100

www.makeadifferenceathome.com 38

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Making a Commitment to Love Yourself – 10:30am. Attend a special wedding ceremony, during which you will be invited to make a loving commitment to your own self. Vows will be made. Rings will be given as a token of your love and a reminder of your commitment. Center for Spiritual Living Princeton is a warm, dynamic community of spiritually minded people. Sunday Transformation Service, followed by refreshments and conversation. Services are held at the Princeton Masonic Lodge, 345 River Rd (Rte. 605), Princeton. 609-924-8422. Posture for a Pain-Free Back – 11am. Free. Gokhale Method Teacher, Roberta Cooks, MD, offers a free posture workshop, including techniques to reduce back pain, neck pain, and other muscle or joint pain. Dr. Cooks’ hands-on workshop offers techniques to help prevent muscle and joint degeneration and injury, increase your energy, stamina, and flexibility, and reduce stress and improve your appearance. MCLS, Hopewell Branch, 245 Pennington-Titusville Rd, Pennington. 609-737-2610. Homesteading: The Face of Natural Beauty – 2-4pm. Spend a day relaxing with Arielle Notterman, owner and craftswoman of Rae and Ruby Beauty Products. In this hands-on class you’ll learn the healing properties of nature’s best herbs and oils, and how to use them to create your own skin products. Cost $70/person. Cherry Grove Farm, 3200 Lawrenceville Rd, Lawrenceville. 609-219-0053.

Family Swim – 10am-noon. See February 5 listing. Ewing.

for those who want to try their hand at growing, and plans will be made for turning the harvest into finished products. Collingswood Library, 771 Haddon Av, Collingswood. 856-425-2221.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 14

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17

Happy Valentine’s Day

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.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 12

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15 College Admissions: An Insider’s View – 7-8:30pm. Free. Don Betterton, former Princeton University admission committee member and currently an independent college counselor, will discuss: the rigor of courses vs. good grades in high school; the importance of SAT and ACT test, as well as preparation and scheduling; how admission committees evaluate applicants; things to keep in mind when writing the college essay. MCLS, W Windsor Branch, 333 N Post Rd, Princeton Junction. 609799-0462.

Parent Night Out – 6-10pm. Are you in serious need of a date night? Now’s your chance. PNO babysitting provides gymnastics, relay races, trapeze, trampoline, swimming, pizza dinner, and group games. Cost $35/$20 child/sibling. Schafer Sports Center, 5 Graphics Dr, Ewing. 609-393-5855.

Reiki Attunement Workshop – 9am-5pm. Attend a reiki level 1 workshop and learn how to perform reiki attunements on yourself after the class. Manual and certification provided. Call to register. Cost $150/person. Evans Chiropractic, Wellness from Within, 3679A Nottingham Way, Hamilton Square. 609-586-9199. Yoga for Beginners – 10:30-noon. Free. Learn simple and powerful yoga postures to improve stability and balance. No physical agility or prior yoga experience needed. Bring a mat or large towel. Instructor. Anu, trained Isha facilitator. MCLS, Hightstown Branch, 114 Franklin St, Hightstown. 609-448-1474.

Open House / Qigong Party – 2-4pm. Free. Andrzej has been invited to offer his qigong & shiatsu at Integrated Fitness. Donna Longo’s Healing Arts Center offers classical Pilates with Healing Touch Healing Movement being added to the options for being well. Celebrate the incoming year of the Rooster. Integrated Fitness, 215 N Main St, Pennington. 609-742-3140. Embodied Heart, Sensual Soul JourneyDance – 6-9pm. Empower the community, create connection and celebrate life with authentic movement. Led by Joy Okoye and Arielle Wortzel, Certified JourneyDance Facilitators. Cost $35/$40, preregistration/ door. Princeton Integral Yoga Community Center Princeton Shopping Center, 301 N. Harrison St, Princeton. 609-977-2504.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18

Habits & Happiness – 1pm. Free. How to become happier and improve your wellbeing by changing your habits. Presented by bestselling author Braco Pobic. Q&A session followed by book signing. MCLS, Hopewell Branch, 245 Pennington-Titusville Rd, Pennington. 609-737-2610.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16 Documentary Screening: Prince Among Slaves – 6pm. Free. This documentary recounts the true story of an African Muslim prince who was captured and sold into slavery in the American South. After 40 years of enslavement, he finally regained his freedom, became a national celebrity, and dined in the White House. Refreshments served. MCLS, Lawrence Headquarters Branch, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville. 609-989-6920. Seeds to Sovereignty – 7pm. Free. Gardeners, crafters, foodies: reclaim your sovereignty by participating in one or more of GMO Free NJ’s “Seed to Sovereignty” projects. Seeds will be distributed

Mozzarella “From Scratch” – 1-3pm. 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. Health Rhythm Drumming – 7-8pm. Group drumming is good fun and good for you. An evidence-based 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.

Ewing Structural Bodywork

I’m not interested in my legacy. I made up a word:

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

~John Glenn

Offering Rolf Method Massage for people and canines

‘live-acy.’ I’m more interested in living.

Beth Verbeyst BCSI, IASI, ABMP

609-731-9576 EwingStructuralBodywork.com natural awakenings

February 2017

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19 Family Swim – 10am-noon. See February 5 listing. Ewing.

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Exploring Mass Mind Group Think – 10:30am. We might think we are making choices freely, but what we don’t know about ourselves can be taking away that freedom without our awareness. Explore the influence of the world around us on us, and get free of its hold over us. Center for Spiritual Living Princeton is a warm, dynamic community of spiritually minded people. Sunday Transformation Service, followed by refreshments and conversation. Services are held at the Princeton Masonic Lodge, 345 River Rd (Rt. 605), Princeton. 609-924-8422.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21 Guided Meditation and Gentle Stretching – 7pm. Free. Participate in a half-hour guided meditation session to relieve daily stress and anxiety, followed by gentle stretching to help relieve your body’s tension. Please bring an exercise/yoga mat or a large towel as portions of the program will take place on the floor. For adults. Registration required. MCLS, Twin Rivers Branch, 276 Abbington Dr, East Windsor. 609-443-1880.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22 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.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23 Technology and Personal Information Security – 7pm. Free. This 45-60-minute class offered by Greg Duncan of TeachTech, LLC will cover topics such as: General Security Practices For Safe Computing, Common Ways Hackers Are Successful, How To Protect Your Device, Online Interactions From Unauthorized Usage, Best (and Worst) Practices of Password Creation. MCLS, Lawrence Headquarters Branch, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville. 609-989-6920.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25 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. African-American History Celebration – 1-4pm. Free. Join to celebrate the history, culture and heritage with Brazilian Dance, African Drumming and the “Lifting Every Voice” skit performance by the Don Evans Players. This event is co-sponsored by The African American Cultural Collaborative of Mercer County and the Friends of the Lawrence Library. MCLS, Lawrence Headquarters Branch, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville. 609-989-6920. Parent Night Out – 6-10pm. See February 11 listing. Ewing.

Greater Mercer County, NJ

NAMercer.com

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 26 Camp Open House / Fair – 10am-noon and 1-3pm. Free. Families can take a tour of our facility and find out the summer camp and other programs. Schafer Sports Center, 5 Graphics Dr, Ewing. 609-393-5855. Can We Talk to God? – 10:30am. The answer is yes. But there are many ways to communicate with the Divine; some, more beneficial than others. Center for Spiritual Living Princeton is a warm, dynamic community of spiritually minded people. Sunday Transformation Service, followed by refreshments and conversation. Services are held at the Princeton Masonic Lodge, 345 River Rd (Rt. 605), Princeton. 609-924-8422. The Basics of Science and Mind – Noon-2pm. Find out how to use the Law of Creation and get all the answers to your questions. Center for Spiritual Living Princeton is a warm, dynamic community of spiritually minded people. Sunday Transformation Service, followed by refreshments and conversation. Services are held at the Princeton Masonic Lodge, 345 River Rd (Rt. 605), Princeton. 609-924-8422.

Plan Ahead WEDNESDAY, MARCH 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, MARCH 11 Mozzarella “From Scratch” – 1-3pm. See February 18 listing. Lawrenceville.

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 – 10:30am. If you are looking for a warm, dynamic community of spiritually-minded people, we encourage you to come to one of our Sunday Transformation Services and mingle afterwards with refreshments and conversation. The Center for Spiritual Living Princeton holds services every Sunday at the Princeton Masonic Lodge, 354 River Rd, Princeton. 609-924-8422.

Kung Fu. Not fighting, but do lot of kicking, punching, stamping and screaming. Designed for those in good physical shape who need to maintain emotional balance. Cost $20 or buy 6 classes and get 1 free. Integrated Fitness, 215 N Main St, Pennington. 609-742-3140.

tuesday

Yin Qigong – 7-8:30pm. Free. Yin Qigong challenges focus, concentration, and coordination while helping achieve a clear, undisturbed mind. Improves joint flexibility, muscle strength, and posture. With practice, learn ability to move energy along Meridians to promote healing of internal organs and systems. Cost $20 or buy 6 classes and get 1 free. Integrated Fitness, 215 N Main St, Pennington. 609-742-3140.

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

wednesday Qigong for Stress – 11:30am-12:30pm. To punch SunnyAd.qxp_Layout 2 8/9/15 10:51 AM Page 1 it out, this class is adaptation of Shaolin Song Shon

Birthing Basic – 7-9pm. 4-week program for expectant parents provides information and answers 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 in 10 minutes, and will keep you well. The secret to qigong’s effectiveness lies in the way the exercises are performed. You will learn these techniques over the course of the class. Personal Qi Gong 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.

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

February 2017

MAR Holistic Eye Care Plus: Food Sensitivities

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

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. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nowâ&#x20AC;? 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

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 EFT (TAPPING) PRACTICIONER 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 email for free 20 minute consultation.

EVANS CHIROPRACTIC

CHERRY STREET KITCHEN

Dr. Eric Evans 3679 Nottingham Way, STE A, Hamilton 609-586-9199 EvansChiro.com

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.

We provide a Holistic based wellness found that a direct, hands-on approach with consistent HEALTH &WELLNESS FROM WITHIN awareness and 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.

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

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 Greater Mercer County, NJ

WALDORF SCHOOL OF PRINCETON

HOLISTIC CARE

COMMERCIAL KITCHEN

EDUCATION/SCHOOLS

NAMercer.com

EVANS service. I have CHIROPRACTIC

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

We offer a unique approach to the health care of the mouth based on a holistic understanding of the whole body. Please contact us to learn how we can serve your needs. See ad, page 29.

HYPNOSIS 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.

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 HOLISTIC CONSULTANT 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.

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.

REGENERATIVE MEDICINE

MENTOR NEW JERSEY MENTOR

EDWARD MAGAZINER, M.D.

856-533-4100 MakeADifferenceatHome.com

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.

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.

NATURAL PRODUCTS 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

February 2017

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