December 2016 Natural Awakenings Sarasota by Natural Awakenings of Sarasota

H E A L T H Y

FREE

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

LOVING LARGE

Scientists Say We’re All Connected

Krista Tippett on

Our Evolving SPIRITUALITY Why it Evokes Hope

A Gorgeously Greener Holiday Fresh Thinking About Décor

MERRY MUNCHING Sugar-Free Treats Kids Love

December 2016 | Sarasota/Manatee Edition | nasrq.com

A V OYA G E TO W E L L - B E I NG

MARCH 11 - 18, 2017

Join our 14th annual Holistic Holiday at Sea cruise for 7 nights on the luxurious MSC Divina, one of the most ecologically-friendly and elegant cruise liners on the seas. Bask in gracious Italian hospitality and service all while enjoying inspiring lectures and vegan natural foods prepared by our own chefs. Departing from Miami, FL and sailing to lush Ocho Rios, Jamaica; historic Georgetown, Cayman Islands; sunny Cozumel, Mexico; & the paradise of Nassau, Bahamas. Learn more about the classes, cuisine and itinerary at holisticholidayatsea.com.

Chosen by National Geographic Traveler as

ONE OF THE 1 00 BEST WORLDWIDE VACATIONS TO ENRICH YOUR LIFE

FEATURING WORLD-RENOWNED CHEFS, TEACHERS & HEALERS Co-author of The China Study and author of Whole: Rethinking the Science of Nutrition; featured in the ﬁlm Forks Over Knives

T. COLIN CAMPBELL, PH.D.

Physician, author, & internationally-recognized speaker on nutrition; founded NutritionFacts.org; spoke at Congress, on Dr. Oz, & the Colbert Report

MICHAEL GREGER, M.D. Creator of the popular vegan food blogs HealthyHappyLife.com and FindingVegan.com; author of two best-selling cookbooks

Best-selling author of Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease; starred in the ﬁlm Forks Over Knives; featured on CNN’s special The Last Heart Attack

CALDWELL ESSELSTYN, JR. M.D.

KATHY PATALSKY

FOOD OPTIONS FOR EVERYONE - VEGAN, GLUTEN-FREE, OIL-FREE AND SHIP’S MENU SWIM, SNORKEL AND KAYAK IN THE CRYSTAL WATERS OF THE CARIBBEAN AWARD-WINNING ENVIRONMENTALLY-FRIENDLY SHIP DAILY YOGA, MEDITATION, PILATES, QI GONG, DO-IN, RUNNING, FITNESS & BODY BUILDING CLASSES 45 TEACHERS • 145 LECTURES & WORKSHOPS 11 COOKING & BOOTCAMP CLASSES CEU & CME CREDITS AVAILABLE DANCING, SOCIALS & SINGLES EVENT VEGAN PIZZA & ICE CREAM PARTIES CANCER SUPPORT GROUP & RECOVERY PANEL PRIVATE CONSULTATIONS & TREATMENTS AVAILABLE

Founder of the Physicians Commitee for Responsible Medicine; author of Food for Life & Power Foods for the Brain; active health advocate

NEAL BARNARD, M.D. Emmy Award-winning author of seven bestselling cookbooks; host of the television show Christina Cooks; health educator for 25+ years

CHRISTINA PIRELLO

LEARN MORE holisticholidayatsea.com info@holisticholidayatsea.com 1-800-496-0989 (Toll Free US) 1-828-749-9537 Holistic Holiday at Sea holisticholidayatsea.com/blog

BOOK TODAY Lorraine Travel bookings@holisticholidayatsea.com

1-877-844-7977 (Toll Free US) 1-305-443-0542 Option 1 for program information Option 2 for travel agent All reservations for our holistic group must be made through Lorraine Travel

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December 2016

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TAKE BACK YOUR LIFE FROM ARTHRITIS, PARKINSON’S & OTHER NEUROLOGICAL DISEASES! More than 10 million people worldwide are living with Parkinson’s disease. Untold millions more are living with Alzheimer’s, Dementia, Arthritis, Osteoarthritis and Strokes. If you or someone you love is suffering, there is help NOW at

The Center for Regenerative Medicine THE STEM CELL PROJECT Stem Cells are significantly improving the lives of people affected by neurological diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. With over 17 years’ experience working with Stem Cell Technologies, the experts at the Center for Regenerative Medicine are enhancing the science of regenerative medicine and helping their patients take back their lives. NON-SURGICAL ORTHOPAEDIC CARE THE KNEE DIARIES: SJ is a 60-year-old male with bone-on-bone osteoarthritis of the left knee (Exhibit A) causing much pain and discomfort. Before visiting the Center he was told that only a total knee replacement could help him. Patient started treatment and, after a year, is feeling much better without the need for surgery and all of the aftermath associated with it (Exhibit B). HOW IT WORKS Cell Therapy is introduced into damaged, arthritic cells by means of a precise injection, followed by infrared laser and other modalities to accelerate the process. After 1-6 treatments, depending on the tissue damage, severity of the condition and the size of the joint, patients’ conditions improve, typically going back to their usual activities or work immediately! The treatments can help most musculoskeletal problems such as low back pain, neck pain, knee pain, shoulder pain, whiplash, sciatica, tendinitis, sprain, strains, torn ligaments and cartilage damage.

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THE CENTER FOR REGENERATIVE MEDICINE is a team of professionals with thousands of successful cases over the past six years, enabling world champions, sports legends, professional and amateur athletes, dancers, and people with just plain pain get relief and take back their lives. THE CENTER FOR REGENERATIVE MEDICINE 1001 NE 125 Street, Miami, Florida 33161 • www.arthritisusa.net In the U.S.: (305) 866-8384 • International: (305) 891-4686

contents 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.

32 LOVING LARGE Scientists Say We’re All Connected by Linda Sechrist

34 HEAL ADRENAL

FATIGUE NATURALLY

Practical Ways to Regain Vitality by Linda Sechrist

36 FITNESS 2017

New Year’s Resolutions that Stick by Aimee Hughes

38 HEALTHY HOLIDAY LIBATIONS

Restorative Drinks Revive Good Cheer by Judith Fertig

40 KRISTA TIPPETT ON

OUR EVOLVING SPIRITUALITY Why it Evokes Hope by Randy Kambic

42 LIVE AS YOUR HEART LIVES

by Lyric Benson Fergusson

44 FETCH, STRETCH, DANCE

Make Your Dog an Exercise Buddy by Sandra Murphy

46 MERRY MUNCHING

Sugar-Free Treats Kids Love by Judith Fertig

50 A GORGEOUSLY

GREENER HOLIDAY

Fresh Thinking About Décor by Avery Mack

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

46 44

23 24

12 newsbriefs 23 ecotip 24 healthbriefs 27 globalbriefs 34 healingways 36 fitbody 38 consciouseating 40 wisewords 42 inspiration 44 naturalpet 46 healthykids 50 greenliving 66 calendar 73 classifieds 74 resourceguide

advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 941-564-0885 or email Publisher@ nasrq.com. Deadline for ads: the 15th of the month. EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: Publisher@nasrq.com. Deadline for editorial: the 12th of the month. CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Please submit all listings through nasrq.com. Deadline for calendar: the 12th 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 941-564-0885. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

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natural awakenings

December 2016

letterfrompublisher

appiest of holidays to all our wonderful readers! This time of year fills me with excitement, gratitude, anticipation and pure delight. But, while I’m sure many of you feel the same, this season can also cause physical, mental and emotional stress as we find ourselves managing various obligations–– from planning get-togethers and hosting family members to decorating our homes and shopping for that perfect gift. With all these mounting responsibilities, it’s common to lose sight of what makes the holidays festive to begin with. This issue of Natural Awakenings is intended to restore balance and enjoyment in every area of your life, so you can approach this season mindfully and cherish the time spent with those people who matter most. On this note, our feature article “Loving Large” offers insight on staying connected to your relationships––even in the midst of hectic circumstances. Also, take the guesswork out of what refreshments to serve at your next seasonal gathering with our “Healthy Holiday Libations.” These vibrant––and guilt-free––drinks are sure to spread cheer among all your guests. And who could forget dessert? “Merry Munching” will motivate you to bake sugar-free treats that even the kids will approve of. Finally, for a fresh and eco-friendly take on festive décor, consider bringing the outdoors into your home with inspiration from “A Gorgeously Greener Holiday.” Hopefully, these tips will keep your stress levels to a minimum throughout this month, so you can embrace the “most wonderful time of the year.” As always, please email any comments or questions to Publisher@NASRQ.com, and from our Natural Awakenings family to yours, we’ll see you again in 2017!

contact us Publisher Janet Lindsay Managing Editor Mary-Elizabeth Schurrer Contributing Writer Juliette Jones Calendar Editor Cheryl Hynes Design & Production Susan Jones Social Media Manager Amy Hass To contact Natural Awakenings Sarasota / Manatee Edition: 941-564-0885 publisher@nasrq.com © 2016 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.

Holiday Bliss with Four Pillars

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Sarasota/Manatee Edition

FOUR PILLARS www.nasrq.com

941.373.3955 | San Marco Plaza, Lakewood Ranch www. fourpillarsflorida.com

Benefitting

Benefits the Lakewood Ranch Medical Center Auxiliary that supports the Lakewood Ranch Community and JoshProvides whose mission is to improve the lives of those who are affected by Epilepsy.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2016

Dr. MAC's Kid's Santa Dashes 6:00 pm; 5K Jingle Run/Walk 7:00 pm; 1 Mile Holiday Walk 7:10 pm Register online at www.active.com. For information and forms www.lwrmcaux.org. Early packet & shirt pickup at Fit2Run Downtown Main Street Sarasota Friday 12/16 & Saturday 12/17; and at the Fit2Run UTC mall store next to Dillard’s Sunday 12/18 through Wednesday 12/21 store hours. All participants receive Jingle Bells, Laces, plus Lighted Clip on flashers. First 1,800 receive a Commemorative Leslie Jordan moisture wicking long sleeve shirt. Huge post-race party and holiday festival on LWR Main Street with adult beverages. (proper I.D. required) Featured entertainment “Gamble Creek Band.” Fit2Run CLUB members and local running club members receive a $5.00 discount when registering at a Fit2Run location. At the UTC Mall location also receive a FREE Smoothie (Valued at $7.00) when registering.

Hosted by:

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CALL (941) 358-5100 natural awakenings

December 2016

newsbriefs

Elysian Fields offers Holiday Colon Therapy Clinic Promotes Healing De-Stressing Tips f you plan to from a Variety of Symptoms

ymptoms like headaches, constipation, inflammation, bloating, acid reflux, decreased appetite, muscle soreness, poor complexion, weight gain, irritability, fatigue, depression or insomnia could be indicators of colon toxicity. This condition is precipitated by a build-up of waste, mucous and bad bacteria in the large intestine. When this occurs, the susceptibility to numerous diseases including arthritis, fibromyalgia, diverticulitis, lymphatic congestion, irritable bowel syndrome, sinus infection and cancer, among other conditions, can increase. Fortunately, there is a simple solution to counteract these health issues. The experts at Colon Therapy Clinic in Sarasota have been providing colon cleansing treatments and maintenance for 43 years. Their pioneering approach, called the “Gentle Menard Technique,” uses zero-pressure water inflow to remove toxic waste from the system, re-oxygenate the body, regulate digestion and increase energy levels, among other wellness benefits. Experience this restorative treatment at Colon Therapy Clinic’s state-of-theart facility, offering both open and closed colonic equipment, in a pleasant therapeutic environment. As this hectic holiday season approaches, it’s time to make health an important priority. Location: 7733 Holiday Dr., Sarasota. To schedule an appointment, call 941-9227744. For more information, visit ColonTherapyClinic.com.

Experience the Healing Benefits of Chair Yoga with A New Aging Movement

ave you been hearing from your friends, family or physician, “You should do yoga––it might help you feel better?” Learning and practicing yoga on a regular basis offers numerous benefits including reducing stress, opening the joints, improving mobility, promoting balance and strength, and relaxing your state of mind, among others. When looking for a yoga class, it’s important to find the right teacher, style and level which allows you to feel both comfortable and safe. Chair Yoga is an option for those who can’t easily lift themselves off the floor, or those who have issues with endurance and balance. Regardless of your experience, age group or fitness level, you can easily do this program. Angelena Craig, director of A New Aging Movement, specializes in teaching yoga with chairs used for support. She has developed group classes over the past twenty years, produced a video for home practice and teaches in several Sarasota locations, as well as offering private classes. In August 2016, Craig became certified through Kripalu Center for Yoga and Wellness to teach Yoga for Cancer. She currently offers one-on-one classes for those going through the cancer experience. These individualized classes focus on regaining mobility, strength and confidence, while relaxing the mind. Cost: $65 for 90-minute introductory session, $180 for four one-hour weekly classes. For more information, call 941-822-9620 or visit ANewAgingMovement.com.

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

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host family and friends over the holidays, the mix of energies entering your home can get intense. Remember to cleanse your home energetically before guests arrive, then once they leave to keep your sacred space purified. Smudging with sage or burning copal incense are both timetested cleansing methods for clearing negative energy and creating balance. Using a diffuser or lighting candles infused with essential oils of lavender, sage, palo santo or cedarwood can help to constantly cleanse the air while people are mixing and mingling. In addition, create ambiance in your home to boost the positive energy field. Adding an amethyst cluster or selenite lamp to your living or dining room can promote a sense of peace. Amethyst quartz has been said to promote relaxation and soothe anxiety and depression. Selenite is also considered an “emotional cleanser” for the mind, body and spirit, and extending to the outer environment to create both calmness and tranquility. Selenite lamps offer a soothing glow to enhance meditation, concentration and thought clarity. Positioning a selenite lamp or t-light candle holder in the family zone will instill a sense of harmony within the space. Here at Elysian Fields, we are fully prepared to outfit your home with all of the necessities to keep peace and joy pulsing throughout your home this season. Our knowledgeable staff looks forward to assisting you spread that holiday cheer! Location: 1273 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. For more information, call 941-366-4982 or visit ElysianFieldsOnline.com.

“Looking into the Crystal Ball” Youth Fundraiser

Pearl Cream by Dr. Anna Anti-Aging Seminar

Location: 1331 1st St., Sarasota. Cost: $25 (advance), $30 (at the door). For more information, call 941-8611140.

Location: 2721 Mall Dr., Sarasota. Hours: Monday–Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 941-921-2662 or visit PearlCreamByDrAnna.com.

n January 11, 6–9 p.m., Friends of the Selby Public Library will present the seventh annual “Looking into the Crystal Ball” youth fundraiser at the Selby Public Library. This popular event is packed with continuous entertainment by musicians, dancers, performance artists, intuitive readers, visual artists, authors and wellness exhibitions. Attendees can also sample savory bites from local restaurants including Louie’s Modern, Mattison’s, Carmel Café, Libby’s, Tsunami Sushi, BJ’s Wholesale Club, Trader Joe’s, Morton’s Catering, Hyatt Regency and more, along with full cash bars. This casual “Peoples Gala” is full of low-cost, high-energy entertainment. Tickets will go onsale December 5, inside the friends of the Selby Public Library bookstore. Proceeds benefit the library’s free youth and teen programs.

n December 9, 1 p.m., Dr. Anna Baker, DOM, will present a seminar, showcasing Pearl Cream by Dr. Anna, her revolutionary anti-aging serum made from real pearls and Chinese herbs without any preservatives. Pearls contain amino acids that retighten muscles and slowly return the face to its younger look with daily use. Dr. Anna will show photographed results of people from all different ages and face types. Pearl Cream by Dr. Anna is also available as a muscletightening body lotion, men’s anti-aging line and sports performance line.

AGE 32

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December 2016

newsbriefs

Solstice Ceremony Got Stress? Garden of the Heart Yoga on South Lido Beach to Honor the Solar Center Has Solutions is physiological––it affects the body, Deities Stress mind and heart. So does yoga, but in the opposite direction. While stress triggers the sympathetic nervous system––that “fight or flight” reaction–– yoga practices like asana, pranayama and meditation activate the parasympathetic nervous system which regulates blood flow, oxygen and

adrenaline back to normal levels. Yogis regularly practice chanting “OM,” relaxing in Savasana and breathing exercises. They practice the physical postures that optimally align the body posture. Regular practice allows the body to regulate itself in easy and comfortable situations, so that when life becomes challenging––like during the holidays or an election year––stress release is second nature. This month, Garden of the Heart is offering ways to release stress from both the holidays and this recent election. On December 3, 1–3 p.m., Harmony Ananda will lead a restorative, guided meditation Yoga Nidra practice. Students will lie down, supported on their mats to set their own intentions, release obstacles and relax completely. On December 25, 1–3 p.m., Eva Saunders will lead a Christmas Restorative Workshop. This is an opportunity to celebrate beauty, joy and unity through calming, quieting and relaxing yoga postures. Many poses will be supported by props and blankets and held for several minutes to allow a deep release of muscle tension. These special workshops are ideal giving yourself or a loved one the gift of relaxation. Both classes are suitable for all levels including beginners. Location: 2888 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota. Cost: $30 (props and mats provided). Wear comfortable clothing. For more information and to register, call 941-342-9781, email Cheryl@GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com or visit GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com.

Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light

Serving Sarasota and Manatee Counties - and the World through Healing, Education and Enlightenment

5041 Ringwood Meadow, Bldg. G-2, Sarasota, FL 34235 (Honore, north of 17th St.)

Embracing the New Paradigms of our Awakening Consciousness:

Divine Connection, Ascended Masters, Alternative Healings, Lightwork, Meditations, Channeling, Mediumship, Shamanism, UFOs, Special Guest Speakers and much more...

SUNDAY SERVICES

10:30 AM ~ Open Arms Metaphysical Spiritualist Service Revs. Thomas & Mary Linn Clarke 12:15 PM ~ A Cosmic In-Service Gathering of Lightworkers with Rev. Sharon-Elizabeth James 12:15 PM ~ 1st Sunday of The Month Open Heart Divine Healing Service For more information on our workshops and classes 941-371-9333 or www.CCOSL.com

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

SPECIAL EVENTS CONNECTING TO THE SOURCE SESSIONS WITH ABDY

DEC. 6, 2016, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

TO RESERVE YOUR SPACE AND GET TICKETS GO TO

https://abdyisback.splashthat.com/ Payment at the door accepted if space is available

SARYON IS BACK!

DECEMBER 7TH – 14TH 2016

n December 21, the northern hemisphere is cloaked in the shortest hours of daylight, making it the longest day of the year. Our ancestors gathered at major ceremonial sites like Newgrange in Ireland to honor the sun during this seasonal change, and now we gather at South Lido Beach to honor the sun’s return. On this night of great introspection, we summon the Solar Deities from the darkness and call for a personal return to light. Drums will sound a processional as seven-year-old Lincoln Squires brings a light to the circle, celebrating the return of these Solar Deities. A mandala of lights will then be created in the circle’s center of the circle to form an altar for participants to place individual tea lights, representing their wishes for the New Year. As darkness falls the mandala, will be illuminated with all these tea lights. Ceremonialists include Wiccan Patricia Walsh, The Sun Dance with Dr. Marguerite Barnett, Barbara Gail and Drumrise, Jewell Cochara leading the Venice Frame Drummers, The Threshold Choir singing the Gayatri Mantra and Gail Swanson leading the benediction. Participants are asked to bring tea lights, chairs, blankets and flashlights. In addition, donations will be collected on behalf of the Mayors’ Feed the Hungry Program. This organization feeds thousands of families in need during the holiday season. and is a charity supported annually by the Women’s Meditation Circle. The event will be held at South Lido Beach State Park on the Gulf side, beginning at 5 p.m. Men and children are also invited to attend.

TO RESERVE YOUR SPACE AND GET TICKETS GO TO

https://saryonisback.splashthat.com/ Payment at the door accepted if space is available

www.nasrq.com

For more information, email JoMooy@ gmail.com or visit StarSoundings.com.

Acupuncture Facelift Seminar with Dr. Anna

n December 7, 2 p.m., Dr. Anna Baker, DOM and founder of Faces by Dr. Anna, will present a seminar on changing the course of facial aging with her muscletightening acupuncture face and necklift. Her technique reverses aging in both the face and neck muscles, returning their original features. Dr. Anna has a database of over 500 people, and she will show photographed results for different ages and face types. A nationally board-certified Doctor of Oriental Medicine, Dr. Anna has been practicing in Sarasota since 1998. She has developed her specialty in a muscle-tightening acupuncture face and necklift with no needles used on the face. Up to three treatments can be done in one day with a 10-treatment minimum. After treatments are completed, a one or two treatment touch-up is suggested every 18 months to maintain the lift. Dr. Anna’s work has been nationally televised, and she has been voted Sarasota’s favorite anti-aging practitioner. To make seminar reservations or schedule a free consultation, call 941-924-2723. To view before-and-after photos, visit FacesByDrAnna.com.

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natural awakenings

December 2016

newsbriefs New Ownership at The Om Shoppe & Spa

unique signature store and energy day spa, The Om Shoppe is officially under new ownership. Long-time patron and local Clinical Hypnotherapist Beth A. Snyder has taken on the charge of moving The Om Shoppe & Energy Spa forward, both in Sarasota and in the ecommerce sphere. She assumed this role because, in her own words, she “just didn’t want to see Sarasota without this divine oasis.” The Om Shoppe has been one of Snyder’s favorite stores for many years. Combined with her success as one of the country’s top hypnotherapists, this transition to ownership was kismet. The Om Shoppe has already expanded its spa service menu to include Crystal Stone Massage, Sound Wave Attunement, Numerology and Hypnotic Programming treatment, among others. Along with the largest selection of crystal singing bowls in the area and a vast selection of premiere Himalayan salt products, The Om Shoppe now features an aromatherapy bar and yoga clothing as well. The Om Shoppe’s mission is to offer products, service and events that empower people achieve their greatest wellness and potential. This November marked its three-year anniversary in the current location, and to celebrate, all spa services are buy-three-get-one-free until the end of December. This is an ideal way to indulge your loved ones, while giving back to yourself. Location: 4801 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. For more information, call 941-706-3257 or visit TheOmShoppe.com. For more information on Beth Snyder’s hypnotherapy services, visit BethSnyderHypnosis.com.

Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction

n 2017, Sarasota Mindfulness Institute will be offering a Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) training. Mindfulness meditation is both learned and utilized in this course. The sessions will take place on Tuesday evenings from January 17–March 17, 6–7:30 p.m., with a practice on February 25, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. This eight-week curriculum, developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn in 1979, will teach participants to access the wisdom of their own bodies and minds to counteract stress, pain and illness. In this intensive training, you will tap into and cultivate your natural capacity to care for yourself through balance and inner peace. During each class, you will develop skills to to cope with the challenges of everyday life such as responding to stressful situations, rather than reacting which can lead to more unpleasantness. Finally, you will improve your basic physiological functioning, and you might even become more aware of your relationship with others and each moment you inhabit. Sarasota Mindfulness Institute also offers additional programs to enhance and support a growing mindfulness practice such as mindful movement, sitting meditation groups, various workshops and kids’ classes. Location: 3975 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota. Cost: $450. Scholarships available. Preregistration required. For more information and to schedule an interview, call 941685-3022, email Info@SarasotaMindfulness.org or visit SarasotaMindfulness.org.

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

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Detoxify with Reflexology at Heart and Sole Organics

eflexology is a healing modality based on zones and reflex areas which mirror every part of the body through the feet and hands. This technique of applying pressure to these reflexes with the thumbs, fingers and hands can facilitate a physical change in the body. Reflexology can promote comprehensive health and detoxification at a cellular level. Constant exposure to toxins from artificial foods, polluted air other environmental factors build up inside the body, causing various health concerns over time. Certain reflexes directly help detoxify the body. Special diets, colonic cleansing, herbal applications and supplements are some methods of detoxification. Reflexology can also be used as either a stand-alone or adjunct treatment to further this process. Reflexology is a useful preventative therapy for health maintenance, and is an excellent way to start the New Year. Cindy Heard, certified Reflexologist, LMT, LE, and owner of Heart and Sole Organics, offers a onehour introductory Reflexology session for $59. Skin nourishing organic facials are also offered for an introductory price of $55, utilizing Ilike Organic Skincare products which have been produced in Hungary for over 55 years. Give this gift of wellness to yourself, friends and loved ones during the holiday season. Location: 1435 S Osprey Ave., Suite 200, Sarasota. Hours: Monday–Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. To schedule an appointment, call 941-228-9724. For more information, email Cindy@ HeartAndSoleOrganics.com or visit HeartAndSoleOrganics.com.

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Presents

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Wednesday January 11, 2017 6-8PM

Advance Tickets: $25.00 At Door Tickets: $30.00

Entertainment/Cuisine Showcase

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December 2016

newsbriefs Four Pillars Invites You to Celebrate the 12 Days of Wellness

elf-care is important to your overall well-being––especially during this often hectic and stressful holiday season. Don’t forget to nurture a strong mind-body-spirit connection. Enjoy the festivities this time of year brings, and celebrate the “12 Days of Wellness!” • • • • • • • • • • • •

12 Dynamic Cups 11 Inspirational Authors 10 Piggies Flexing 9 Glowing Treatments 8 Essential Oils 7 Cleared Chakras 6 Life Coaches 5 Pampered Bridesmaids 4-Handed Lomi 3 Yoga Poses 2 Healing Hands 1 Radiant Me

In addition to workshops, Four Pillars offers offers massage and facials, Reiki, acupuncture, life coaching and a bookstore. Four Pillars is the community. Location: 8209 Nature’s Way, Suite 221, Lakewood Ranch. For more information and to schedule an appointment, call 941-3733955 or visit FourPillarsFlorida.com.

Dr. Paula Koger

SARASOTA ANIMAL MEDICAL CENTER

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Stress Relief with Sampler Sessions of Jin Shin Jyutsu, Acupuncture and Massage

ooking for some stress relief or a quick pick-me-up? Give yourself a mini-retreat from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season and treat yourself to 20 minutes of relaxation and rejuvenation. Back by popular demand, on December 10, 8:30 a.m. to noon, receive sampler sessions of Jin Shin Jyutsu (hands-on energy harmonizing), acupuncture and massage for a reduced rate at Rosemary Court Yoga. Complement your yoga class–– Rosemary Court Yoga offers several classes of a variety of yoga practices on December 10––or simply receive a sampler session to give yourself a Saturday morning boost. Drop-ins are welcomed, but you are strongly encouraged to contact the practitioners and pre-schedule your session: Location: 810 Central Ave., Sarasota. For more information on Rosemary Court Yoga classes, call 941-9525280 or visit RosemaryCourt.com. To schedule a Jin Shin Jyutsu appointment, call 941-228-2972, email Michelle@ SuncoastJSJ.com or visit SuncoastJSJ. com. To schedule an acupuncture appointment, call 941-315-6858, email FivePetalHealing@gmail.com or visit Five-Petal.com. To schedule a massage appointment, call 941-780-0501, email DavidSmowton@gmail.com or visit InteractiveMeditation.com.

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natashacrow.com December 2016

newsbriefs Where East Meets West

uncoast Lymphedema Therapy Center and Perfect Blend Acupuncture promote wellness and relief from abnormal swelling through numerous treatment modalities including manual lymph drainage, clinical nutrition, traditional Chinese medicine, Chinese herbal therapy and biofeedback with the Life System.

Health Remedies Offers OptiWell MD Services

n December 6, 7–9 p.m., Cosmic Center for Spiritual Light welcomes Abdy who possesses an ancient, indescribable gift which allows people to attune to the vibration they need to receive for themselves. In Abdy’s own words, “there is no name for what you receive” during this Connecting to the Source Session.

r. Dave Scheiderer and the staff at Health Remedies are proud to introduce the OptiWell MD® suite of services to his practice. As an advocate of wellness, Dr. Scheiderer embraces many core values reflected in the OptiWell MD mission statement featured below. “There is a new practice in the world of medicine. It all begins with a focus on wellness, not sickness. With a singular emphasis on patient health and well-being, our universal goal is ‘optimal wellness for the optimal you’ with a comprehensive, individualized plan addressing your personal health goals in a professional, medically supervised boutique wellness setting. “Change is never easy! We at OptiWell MD applaud your desire to re-invent yourself to become the optimal you. Using only the safest and most effective evidence based medical protocols, we are dedicated to your selfimprovement journey, to your desire for personal wellness, and to your ultimate success. The world of wellness offers endless possibilities!” “Featuring the phenomenally successful Countdown Diet™, our medical weight loss programs are safe and provide the rapid weight loss results that keep people engaged. Losing up to a pound a day is not uncommon, and our nationwide patients typically lose 21 pounds in four weeks. “Add more years to your life and more life to your years with bio-identical hormone replacement therapy for men and women. MyT™ for men offers a complete testosterone therapy solution for low T, while My Symphony™ for women orchestrates the more complex balancing of female hormones.

Location: 5041 Ringwood Meadow, Bldg. G-2, Sarasota. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit AbdyIsBack.SplashThat.com. For more information on Abdy, visit Abdy.info. For more information on Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, visit CCOSL.com.

For more information and to schedule a complimentary wellness consultation, call 941-371-7997 or visit HealthRemedies.com.

Location: 1905 Baywood Dr., Sarasota. Hours: Monday– Friday, by appointment only. For more information, call 941-321-7171, email DianaHebertRN@gmail.com or visit SuncoastLymphedema.com.

Author Spotlight Series at Four Pillars

n January 12 and 18, Four Pillars is honored to bring D.D. Scott’s literary, coaching and creative expertise to Four Pillars. In addition, Scott will be offering two ongoing workshops at Four Pillars the second Thursday and third Wednesday of every month. One workshop series will focus on concepts in her book I Am Good Enough to guide participants through their spiritual awakenings. The second workshop series will help anyone who has ever dreamed of writing and publishing a book accomplish this goal. These monthly lessons will guide participants through detailed steps of writing craft, cover design, formatting, promotion and marketing, along with stories from her own journey. Scott’s book I Am Good Enough explores the idea that to experience a spiritual awakening, you don’t need to look outside yourself. Simply tap into your inner awareness and invite that potential into your life. Her other book The ABC’s of Writing & Publishing a Book discusses what steps to take if you plan to write a book or have a finished manuscript already, but don’t know how to approach the publishing process. In this informative guide, Scott explains finer points of making your dream a reality. Both books are available at Four Pillars. Connect with Scott at this Author Spotlight Series, book previews and ongoing workshop series. Or take her online classes and schedule a private coaching session. Location: 8209 Nature’s Way, Suite 221, Lakewood Ranch. To RSVP for this workshop, call 941-373-3955. For more information, visit FourPillarsFlorida.com. For more information on D.D. Scott, visit LetLoveGlow.com.

Connecting to the Source Session

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December 2016

newsbriefs Shift of Consciousness Lecture and DNA Activations

n December 11, 6–9 p.m., join the Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light for this free event during which you’ll learn about the shift of consciousness on earth, ascension, the awakening of our planet and your dormant DNA. Receive potent and effective live transformational sacred energy healing and DNA activations. This event is facilitated by Lori Spagna, best-selling author, spiritual teacher, speaker and visionary, who practices and teaches ascension, animal communication, intuition and energy healing. She also provides sacred energy transmissions and dormant DNA activations for both humans and animals. Location: 5041 Ringwood Meadow, Bldg. G-25, Sarasota. For more information, call 941-371-9333 or visit CCOSL.com.

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Saryon is Back at Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light

rom December 7–14, Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light welcomes back Saryon, a channel for the ascended masters, angels, archangels and arcturians. Saryon’s expertise as a multidimensional channel, out-ofbody traveler, contactee, and disciple of the ascended masters has given him qualifications as a public speaker, intuitive reader and facilitator of transformation. He is also a writer, energy worker, and channel for Spirit. Over the past 20 years, Saryon has been graced by visitations from ascended masters, angels, archangels, enlightened ETs, nature spirits, deceased ancestors, prophets and notable figures from the spiritual history of our planet. He also experiences travel into the future or the ancient past during out-of-body experiences, and has a psychic pulse on world events. His presentations are often described as energizing, transformational and uplifting. Location: 5041 Ringwood Meadow, Bldg. G-2, Sarasota. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit SaryonIsBack.SpashThat.com. For more information on Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, visit CCOSL.com.

He who has not

Christmas in his heart will never find it under a tree. ~Roy L. Smith

ecotip

A BETTER WAY TO SLEEP

Eco-Toy Story

During the holiday gift buying season, it’s good to recall the days of old-fashioned toys. Simple, wooden toys made with nontoxic paints are far safer than those sprayed with varnishes and paints containing lead and volatile organic compounds. Plastics can emit unhealthy chemicals used during manufacturing, which also produces environmental pollution. Pieces can break off, possibly injuring soft skin, or be consumed by toddlers with dangerous results. A recent report by Environment California, a research and policy center, found that products designed for babies and young children, such as soft plastic teethers, bath accessories and others, contain phthalates. Many toys require batteries containing heavy metals like mercury and cadmium. ChasingGreen.org recommends eco-conscious makers of toys available at GreatGreenBaby.com, including organic cotton stuffed animals; BabyBunz.com, featuring sustainably harvested cherry wood rattles and organic Egyptian cotton animals; and GreenToys.com, with play meal cookware and serving pieces made from bioplastic, consisting of a corn and starch resin. Here are other factors to consider. Educational toys can “enhance language, conceptual understanding and numerical and spatial cognition,” according to a study in the journal Mind, Brain and Education. Six-to-8-year-olds can gain an appreciation for archaeology playing with Smithsonian toys available at Barnes & Noble and BarnesAndNoble.com. PristinePlanet.com sells wood puzzles, solar-powered robots and board games from the Golden Gate National Park Conservancy. The Discovery Channel Store has safe toys and books for kids. Follow age guidelines in choosing gifts, advises Steve Pasierb, president and CEO of the Toy Industry Association. “Age-grading has nothing to do with how smart a child is—it’s based on the developmental skills and abilities at a given age and the specific features of a toy.” Practice conservation while saving money by canvassing thrift and consignment shops for classic card and board games.

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Safe, Fun Gifts for Kids

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December 2016

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A Cup of Peppermint Tea Boosts Alertness

esearchers from Northumbria University, in England, have discovered that drinking peppermint tea can improve working and long-term memory. After 180 healthy adults filled out questionnaires about their mood, they were selected at random to consume one of three drinks—peppermint tea, chamomile tea or water—and then rested for 20 minutes. The subjects were then tested for memory and other cognitive factors and given a second mood questionnaire. Those that drank peppermint tea exhibited improvements in both types of memory and were more alert than the other two groups. The participants that drank chamomile tea displayed reductions in both memory and attention functions compared to the others. Researcher Mark Moss, Ph.D., notes, “The enhancing and arousing effects of peppermint and the calming, sedative effects of chamomile observed in this study are in keeping with the claimed properties of these herbs and suggest beneficial effects can be drawn from their use.”

Fracking Linked to Asthma Attacks

esearchers from the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health have found that individuals living close to a natural gas hydraulic fracking site have a significantly higher occurrence of asthma attacks. The study examined health records from the Geisinger Health System, a healthcare provider in Pennsylvania, where the fracking industry has experienced incredible growth of more than 9.000 natural gas wells in the past decade. The records of more than 35,000 Geisinger asthma patients between the ages of 5 and 90 were studied between 2005 and 2012. Patients that reported attacks were mapped and studied in relation to the fracking well locations, and the results compared with other patients not reporting attacks in the same year. The researchers discovered that those that lived in close proximity to multiple or larger active natural gas wells were 1.5 to four times more likely to experience asthma attacks. Brian S. Schwartz, a medical doctor and a professor in the Department of Environmental Health Services at the Bloomberg School, in Baltimore, Maryland, was the senior author of the study. He states, “We are concerned with the growing number of studies that have observed health effects associated with this industry. We believe it’s time to take a more cautious approach to [fracking] well development with an eye on environmental and public health impacts.”

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ORGANIC JUICE BAR & CAFE

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healthbriefs

Did You Know…? by Laurie Letzo

ost store-bought household products–– cleaners, air fresheners and many others––contain harmful chemicals and toxins that poison your home’s indoor air quality. The EPA links volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and carcinogenic air pollutants found in mainstream household cleaners to numerous health problems including eye, nose or throat irritation and damage to the central nervous system. Creating a chemical-free home environment doesn’t have to be complicated. Essential oils from Young Living are a great place to start. Often referred to as “nature’s living energy,” essential oils possess unique properties that provide a host of benefits. For example, they are key ingredients for neutralizing the harsh odors found in most store-bought household cleaners. Why not just use essential oils directly? Clearly, moving toward a chemical-free home is important for our health, body, mind and spirit. But where should you begin? Create your own chemical-free and healthier alternatives to the mass-market cleaning products found in most stores. Use powerful Young Living Essential Oils and ingredients basics like baking soda, lemon juice, vinegar, rubbing alcohol and olive oil. Here are two DIY recipes to get you started: • Ditch the store-bought furniture polish. Mix two-parts olive oil, one-part lemon juice and 5–6 drops of Young Living Lemon Essential Oil. • • When it’s time for everyday dusting, simply use a mixture of water and Young Living Lavender Essential Oil. For more DIY recipes to make your home an uplifting, chemicalfree place for both you and your family, call 941-203-1225, email EssentialOilsofYL@gmail.com, visit SarasotaEssentialOils. com or like Sarasota Essential Oils on Facebook.

“Where Science Meets Nature” Fusion Therapy has taken the immense health benefits of European salt caves and brought them to you in a luxurious, spa setting. Each of our salt rooms is covered from floor to ceiling in thousands of pounds of powerfully therapeutic Dead Sea Salt. Dry salt therapy detoxes the lungs and removes toxins naturally.

• Cranio Sacral Therapy • Lymphatic Drainage • Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna • Yin Yoga with Acupuncture • Advanced Body Work 7069 South Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34231 941.921.7900 Fusiontherapysarasota.com

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December 2016

Cranberries Reduce Urinary Tract Infections

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ranberries, a staple on most holiday tables, can help women reduce their risk of urinary tract infections (UTI). A recent study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research tested the impact of consuming whole-cranberry fruit powder on women that had experienced two or more UTIs in the previous 12 months. Of the 182 study participants, 89 were given 500 milligrams of the cranberry powder daily for six months. The remaining 93 women ingested a placebo. The cranberry group reported significantly fewer infections than the placebo group. In addition, it took the women in the cranberry group more time to develop a first UTI than the women in the control group.

esearchers from the University of São Paulo Medical School, in Brazil, have found high levels of tinnitus, a ringing or buzzing in the ear, and hearing loss in adolescents that use ear bud speakers. They examined the hearing of 170 students between the ages of 11 and 17 and asked them about their experiences with tinnitus in the previous year. More than half of the respondents had experienced the condition. The principal investigator for the study, Tanit Ganz Sanchez, an associate professor of otolaryngology at the medical school, notes that the prevalence of tinnitus among adolescents should be viewed as an early warning of a serious hearing loss risk. She says, “If this teenage generation continues to expose themselves to very high noise levels, they’ll probably suffer from hearing loss by the time they’re 30 or 40.”

Why Some Kids Grow Up with Fewer Allergies

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study in the journal Pediatrics, published by the American Academy of Pediatrics, has found that the common childhood habits of thumb sucking and nail biting can reduce the risk of adolescent and adult allergies. Researchers followed more than 1,000 individuals from 5 through 32 years old, monitoring these two habits at ages 5, 7, 9 and 11. The subjects were tested for allergies at 13 using a skin-prick test and again at 32. Of all participants, 31 percent were frequent thumb suckers and nail biters, and those children had a lower incidence of allergic reactions than the others. These results support a hygiene hypothesis suggesting that early exposure to microbial organisms reduces the risk of developing allergies. 26

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Teens Hooked on Ear Buds Prone to Tinnitus

esearch published in the Journal of Marketing Research links bright light to healthier food choices. The study observed 160 diners at four separate metropolitan locations of a chain dinner restaurant between 6 and 8 p.m. Two of the restaurants used bright lighting (250 lux luminance) and the other two locations had dim lighting (25 lux luminance). The researchers found that diners at the well-lit locations were more likely to choose healthy options such as baked or grilled fish and chicken than the patrons at the dimly lit restaurants. These results were replicated in a laboratory test of 700 college students where scientists attributed students’ healthier choices to the alert feelings that being in a bright room elicits.

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Bright Lights Encourage Healthy Eating

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

Ocean Watch

Bye-Bye Birdies

North American Species at High Risk Dima Oana Gabriela/Shutterstock.com

The 2016 annual Audubon Great Backyard Bird Count in February (Audubon. org/content/2014-great-backyard-birdcount-summary) and a report compiled by the North American Bird Conservation Initiative (StateOfTheBirds.org/2016) show that more than a third of all North American bird species are at risk of becoming extinct unless significant action is taken, especially ocean and tropical birds. The governments of Canada, the United States and Mexico created the North American Bird Conservation Initiative in 1999. More than half the species that rely on oceans and tropical forests are on a special watch list because of small and declining populations, limited ranges and severe threats to their habitats. The report pinpoints invasive predators such as rats and cats on nesting islands, as well as overfishing, pollution and climate change. Ways to address the problem include removing predators, expanding protected marine areas and reducing the amount of plastic products that end up in the ocean and can trap or choke birds. Many species such as long-distance migratory shore birds in coastal, grassland and arid habitats are declining steeply. The main causes are rising sea levels, coastal development, encroaching human activity and oil spills.

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2016 was a mixed year for whales and dolphins and by extension, humans. Marine Biologist Sylvia Earle states the importance of ocean health this way: “With every drop of water you drink, every breath you take, you’re connected to the sea. The ocean is the blue heart of the planet. There’s still time, but not a lot, to turn things around.” Scientists have discovered a new, black-colored species of whale that’s onethird the size of a Baird’s beaked whale. Yet to be named, it’s rarely seen, feeding in deep canyons in the Bering Sea. The oldest-known orca whale, Granny, at 105, swims Washington’s coastline. Wild orcas usually live 60 to 80 years; captives, 40 years at most. Iceberg, the only known adult white orca, age 22, was spotted in Russian coastal waters earlier this year. In 2013, a Korean marine park retrained five dolphins to feed naturally and released them into the sea, where they rejoined their original pod. Recent sightings found them thriving, affording hope for the 2,900 dolphins in marine parks, aquariums and zoos worldwide. Pink dolphins in Hong Kong’s bustling harbor remain endangered. In 2003, there were 158; by 2014, only 61. The Baiji River dolphin, only found in China, has been declared extinct. Vaquitas, small porpoises in the Gulf of California, declined from 97 in 2014 to 60 this year, most drowned in commercial fishing nets; it may be extinct by 2018.

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Sea Mammals Update

Extinction Scenario

Humans an Endangered Species The UK-based nonprofit Global Challenges Foundation’s annual report on global catastrophic risk (Tinyurl.com/ GlobalExtinctionReport) has found that the risk of human extinction is higher than we might expect. The Stern Review (Tinyurl.com/The-Stern-Review), the British premier government report on the economics of climate change, estimates a 0.1 percent risk of human extinction every year. “We don’t expect any of the events that we describe to happen in any specific 10-year period. They might—but on balance, they probably won’t,” says Sebastian Farquhar, director of the Global Priorities Project. United Nations-approved climate models estimate that temperatures might rise six to 10 degrees Celsius, which pushes the probability of extinction beyond 3 percent, even with a considerable decrease in carbon emissions. Nuclear war, natural disasters such as volcanic eruptions, genetic engineering gone awry and pandemic plagues figure in too, but the biggest threat might be the ever-increasing human population. According to a paper published in the journal Nature by Elizabeth Hadly, a professor of environmental biology at Stanford University, such growth has followed the trajectory of a typical invasive species and suggests there may be a looming global population downturn. Still, humans are capable of exponentially growing their population several times over through the invention of new technologies and cultural shifts, regardless of Earth’s natural carrying capacity.

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December 2016

Wise Woodsmen

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Norway Bans Deforestation Products The Norwegian Parliament Standing Committee on Energy and Environment has pledged that the government will follow a deforestation-free public procurement policy, meaning that any product that contributes to deforestation will not be used by the country as part of an Action Plan on Nature Diversity. Rainforest Foundation Norway was the main lobbying influence behind this recommendation and has worked for years to bring the pledge into existence. “This is an important victory in the fight to protect the rainforest,” says Nils Hermann Ranum, head of policy and campaign for the committee. “Over the last few years, a number of companies have committed to cease the procurement of goods that can be linked to destruction of the rainforest. Until now, this has not been matched by similar commitments from governments. The Norwegian state is now following suit and making the same demands when it comes to public procurements.” Deforestation is estimated to comprise about 15 percent of all greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to climate change and disrupting natural cycles and livelihoods, according to the World Wildlife Fund. Removal of trees can disrupt a region’s water cycle, resulting in changes in precipitation and river flow that also contribute to erosion.

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More than an Ad...

Source: EcoWatch.com

America Outdone

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Venezuela has passed a law that imposes some of the world’s toughest regulations on genetically modified organisms (GMO) and patenting of seeds in order to consolidate national food sovereignty, regulate the production of hybrid seed, reject the production, distribution and import of GMO seeds and ban transgenic seed research. Canada’s Centre for Research on Globalization describes it as one of the most progressive seed laws in the world. The country intends to establish a national seed system to implement the new law. The group will monitor and sanction any agricultural violations, with a focus on the protection of traditional seeds. Source: gmwatch.org

Patient Pets

Hospital Allows Cats and Dogs Pet dogs and cats are visiting with their seriously ill owners, reducing stress and improving morale, at the Juravinski Hospital, in Hamilton, Ontario. The Zachary’s Paws for Healing program, the first of its kind in Canada, was founded by Zachary Noble and his aunt, Donna Jenkins. Before each visit, the animals are thoroughly cleaned so as not to introduce harmful germs, and brought in on covered, wheeled carts away from all other patients during their one-hour weekly visits. The all-volunteer program plans to offer foster care to pet owners that enter the hospital for treatment. Learn more at ZacharysPawsForHealing.com.

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Venezuela Bans GMOs

Greening Planet

Source: Boston University

HOW CLEAN IS YOUR FOOD?

courtesy of Solar Roadways

The study Greening of the Earth and its Drivers, published by an international team in the journal Nature Climate Change, shows significant greening of a quarter to one-half of the Earth’s vegetated lands based on satellite data from the past 33 years. This represents an increase in leaves on plants and trees that produce sugars using sunlight energy to mix atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) with water and nutrients from the soil. These sugars are the source of food, fiber and fuel for life on Earth. More sugars are produced when there is more of this greenhouse gas in the air in a process called CO2 fertilization. About 85 percent of the Earth’s land is free of ice and covered by vegetation, currently encompassing 32 percent of the planet’s total surface area. Lead author Dr. Zaichun Zhu, a researcher from Peking University, in China, states, “The greening over the past 33 years reported in this study is equivalent to adding a green continent about two times the size of mainland USA, and has the ability to fundamentally change the cycling of water and carbon in the climate system.” The effect may serve as a carbon sink to help counter climate change.

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Satellites Reveal Unexpected Plant Growth

Solar Sidewalk

Missouri Debuts Energy-Generating Pavers Missouri is rolling out a set of energy-generating photovoltaic pavers along a section of the iconic Route 66 highway in a sidewalk pilot project—the first on a public right of way—in the U.S. The street pavers were developed by Solar Roadways, a company created by inventors Scott and Julie Brusaw, which raised more than $2.2 million in crowdfunding in 2014 to bring their technology to market. The Brusaws claim that replacing all of America’s roads and parking lots with their solar pavers would generate more than three times what the country consumed in electricity in 2009. The Missouri Department of Transportation considered their own crowdfunding campaign to support their energy experiment; plans called for the hexagonal solar panels to be fully installed and operational by the end of this year. Source: NBC

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December 2016

The “Too Busy, No Time” Life by Angelena Craig

o you know someone who feels the pressure of having much too much on their agenda and not enough time to accomplish it all? They often complain, “I run around all day, rushing from task to task, or place to place. I have no time to relax with a good book, chat with an old friend or simply care for my own needs. My schedule is nonstop. I can’t even take a deep breath!” But are there alternatives to this hectic lifestyle? Some situations are temporary––like preparing for the holidays, moving into a new home or meeting a specific deadline. Then, we can return to a more balanced and less stressful existence. However, there are chronic “too-busy” people who seem to––consciously or unconsciously––choose life in the fast-lane. Staying occupied can be a method of avoidance or procrastination for issues they’d prefer not to think about or act upon. A friend of mine described the situation like this: “I am deliberately filling every spare moment with activity, so I don’t have to feel my heart breaking over the end of a relationship. If I think too much about feeling lonely, I might consider going back. Too much free time will just lead to

trouble.” With constantly evolving technology at our fingertips, we can occupy ourselves without even leaving our homes. We can spend the entire day or night in front of a screen, texting on smartphones, checking social networks or Googling information. While it’s tempting to complain about our challenges with busyness without taking real action, but there are consequences for “this too-busy” pattern. Our close relationships might become neglected. With no leftover time to make that call, let alone schedule face-toface interaction, relationships falter and sometimes terminate. We do ourselves a disservice by neglecting to slow the pace of our daily obligations––especially as we get older. As a result, physical health can decline, and the mind can become foggier. We leave no time for personal growth, self discovery and gratitude for what’s truly important. Here are some suggestions for breaking the busyness cycle in your own life: • Move toward balance by setting aside both time and energy for professional obligations, relational connections and self-care rituals. • Learn time management skills by recognizing how many hours are wasted with non-essential activities or people. and where that time could be allotted instead. • Consider those relationships you value but have placed on the back-burner, then make an effort to reconnect in a personal manner, rather than sending a quick text message. This quality of “connectedness” is an important marker for well-being. • Begin a meditation practice whenever you notice that “too-busy” mind fluttering from one source of anxiety to another. Still your movements, then observe your thoughts as they come and refocus your mind on deep, even breathing. While we might never find a peaceful world out there, a serene mind can, in fact, be cultivated to bring personal relief and satisfaction which results in a higher quality of life. Angelena Craig is the former director of Beacon Light Yoga Center of Boston. She currently resides in Sarasota where she teaches chair and slow flow yoga, leads wellness workshops and writes a column titled “Boomer Talk.” For more information, visit ANewAgingMovement.com.

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Resistance to Change: Been Everywhere, Done Everything

by Dr. Paula Koger

notice how easily we get accustomed to the same routine. Even when it no longer works in the larger context of our lives, it’s difficult to desire for a situation to change. The same is true for disease and patterns that cause disease. They become familiar, so we choose not to relinquish them. Sometimes, they also have a pay-off which is difficult to replace. For example, one woman I worked with to heal her back pain still decided to undergo surgery the surgery because she thought her doctor was “good looking.” The same is true for healing any disease. We get accustomed to that disease and, therefore, can’t visualize how life would unfold without its constant presence. I have numerous clients who have “been everywhere and done everything.” However, none of those treatments have worked, they tell me. When we expose the truth matter, they discover that, deep in the subconscious, they hadn’t been willing to participate in the actual healing process. Most people will declare, “I want to. I have been everywhere and done everything. Don’t tell me I don’t want to.” So, I respond by explaining the conscious mind does not always know about the blocks, limiting beliefs and patterns of the subconscious. That is why I have Biofeedback software such as NES, Zyto, Heart Quest and Neurointegrator to test for those obstructions. This technology can assess any subconscious blocks, release them and move on. Most people believe only a doctor can heal, so they

don’t accept their own power and ability to remove what is causing the disease. According to Hippocrates, the founder of modern medicine, the doctor’s job is to teach the patient to heal himself. Therefore, I desire to help you find your power to activate your life force to clear away those blocks. I remember a story of one woman who, upon receiving an x-ray of her lung tumor, told her doctor, “Give me an x-ray for a healthy lung.” She then took that x-ray home, displayed it on her window and observed that image for hours each day. As a result, she completely healed the tumor. I just treated a man whose fifth chakra is blocked due to early childhood beatings––the pain of which he internalized and still manifests. He suffers from headaches, insomnia, brain fungus and mucus in his throat, causing unusual swallowing and belching symptoms. He has spent both time and money trying to eliminate these issues. When I told him exactly what the problem is, then offered the remedies and affirmation to release the block and restore the function of that autonomic regulatory center, he refused on the grounds that he could not afford treatment. I told him, “You are simply resistant to getting well. If you do get well, you will have to deal with expressing all the amazingness that you are.” He smiled in recognition and replied, “I’ll be back.” Of course, he must accept this in his own time. First, he must begin to imagine life without these self-imposed limitations. In fact, we all must learn the path to healing, rather than about the disease that has compromised our well-being. That’s why I focus on the prognosis instead of the diagnosis. For more information, call 941-539-4232 or visit WealthOfHealthCenter.com.

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December 2016

LOVING LARGE Scientists Say We’re All Connected by Linda Sechrist

rue love is not something reserved exclusively for soulmates, couples, children, friends or family. Observations by sages for millennia and by enlightened scientists more recently are increasingly aligned with the point of view articulated by renowned meditation teacher Jack Kornfield that true love and awareness—a sense of universal connectivity and the idea that divinity, or the sacred, is found in all things—are indistinguishable.

Scientific View

This state of being, generally denoted by strong feelings of love or acceptance toward others, brings us into contact with universal energy which connects all of humanity with the natural world. Clues to our united commonality are explored in two 21st-century books, Love 2.0: How Our Supreme Emotion Affects Everything We Feel, Think, Do, and Become, by Barbara L. Fredrickson, Ph.D., and A General Theory of Love, by medical doctors Thomas Lewis, Fari Amini and Richard Lannon. These authors explore the brain science that’s related to love and awareness. 32

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Although trying to grasp love intellectually may be like eating soup with a fork, the authors of A General Theory of Love cite feelings as a good starting point. Fredrickson describes love as “the momentary upwelling of three tightly interwoven events: a sharing of one or more positive emotions between you and another; a biochemical synchrony between your and the other person’s biochemistry and behaviors; and a reflected motive to invest in each other’s well-being that brings mutual care.” Fredrickson, director of the Positive Emotions and Psychophysiology Laboratory at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, believes love is a complex physiological response; a “positivity resonance.” She describes key factors in love’s ability to biologically transform us as oxytocin, a hormone active in social bonding and attachments, and the vagus nerve deep within the brain stem that connects with numerous organs, including the lead “character” in this relationship, the heart. The neural synchrony of positivity resonance between the brains of two individuals is a connected oneness that

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Cosmic View

During their 30-year friendship, Bob Staretz collaborated with astronaut Edgar Mitchell, Sc.D., the lunar module pilot on Apollo 14 and founder of the Institute of Noetic Sciences, to research and write “The Quantum Hologram and the Nature of Consciousness,” published in the Journal of Cosmology. Their scientific theory explains how all of creation learns, self-corrects and evolves as a selforganizing, interconnected holistic system through love. “Without exception, everything in nature exists and works together in total balance, resonance and harmony, interacting as one. From this perspective, Edgar and I reached the obvious conclusion—the organizing principle of the cosmos is agape love, an ultimate form of unconditional love that accepts all things existing in nature without regard to conditions, expectations, shortcomings, flaws or faults,” explains Staretz. The former executive director of Eternea, an organization focused on spiritually transformative experiences and the study of consciousness, Staretz says individuals that undergo such an experience attest that loving one another and all

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Fredrickson notes is far more ubiquitous than previously thought possible. Her research shows that it requires only connection, not the intimacy or shared history that comes with any special bonds. Micro-moments of the connected oneness we feel as life-giving reverberations occur via shared smiles or laughter, a common compassion or an engaging story. Humans all hunger for such moments. The prerequisites are perceived safety and authentic sensory connection with another, even if it’s fleeting. In Fredrickson’s perspective, such neural coupling is a biological manifestation of oneness in which a habitual focus on “me” expands to a life-expanding “we”.

of nature, of which we are a part, is the central reason for our existence. Anita Moorjani’s latest book, What If This Is Heaven? reiterates the life lesson she learned from her dramatic near-death experience in which she identified herself as a state of pure consciousness connected with everything in the cosmos. She clearly heard: “Your only work is to love yourself, value yourself and embody this truth of self-worth and self-love so that you can be love in action. That is true service, to yourself and to those who surround you.” This message continues with her, and she explains that by not loving ourselves, we are denying the part of God that expresses itself through us. An overarching insight from her lifechanging journey is, “Unconditional love is a state of being, not an emotion. It’s not just one side of the coin—it’s the whole coin.”

If the doors of perception were cleansed, everything would appear to man as it is, infinite. ~William Blake

How-to Resources Interest in this deeper perspective led The Shift Network, which offers online transformative education, to host a recent Advanced Teachings for Truly Loving Yourself with Margaret Paul, P.h.D., co-author of Do I Have to Give Up Me to Be Loved By You? Many others are working to spread the word about a larger sense of lifegiving love, including Cleveland, Ohio, intuitive psychologist Debra L. Reble, Ph.D., author of Being Love: How Loving Yourself Creates Ripples of Transformation in Your Relationships and the World. She says, “Our soul’s purpose is to be and express love. We dream of love, yearn for love and make love, but rarely do we realize that we are love, a source of divine energy.” Reba Linker, a New York City life coach and author, hosts a Leaders in Self-Love Facebook page and the Paint Yourself into The Picture online coaching show. Linker’s philosophy on love resembles that of New Thought leader Michael Beckwith, minister, author and founder of the Agape International Spiritual Center, in Culver City, California—

to discern that our true nature is love is to know that we are created in the very image and likeness of love, the essence of life itself. Gary Sinclair, author of Healing Memories in Seconds, views his life from an altitude of oceanic oneness. His 35 years of study in a field that uses energy to heal spirit, mind and body led him to develop Soul Link, a memory energy therapy. His work is changing the face of therapy for those with post-traumatic stress disorder and led to the revelation, “Love pulls whatever it touches to its highest potential.” Teaching what he knows “beyond a shadow of a doubt” helps to shift his students’ worldview. “All of creation is made up of electromagnetic energy vibrating at different frequencies. We are energy beings who can learn to manage our energy to heal ourselves. We are all connected by omnipres-

ence, the energy of love, a heart connection of life. Consciously choosing this awareness allows us to be ‘love living life.’” Kamini Desai, director of education for the Amrit Yoga Institute, in Salt Springs, Florida, lends her yogic perspective to love. “We are each a wave on the ocean of existence. Even though we are separate waves, we carry the essence of the same ocean. When that essence manifests in us as spirit, its quality is a healing force of love surrounding our cells, causing our heart to beat and regenerating our organs. This intelligence guides and directs the universe in the same manner that it heals and maintains our body. In yoga, we learn to listen to its subtle voice so that we can follow its urges and energetic impulses to the source from which it springs.” The perceptions of California’s HeartMath Institute founder Doc Childre, dedicated to helping people access their intuitive insight and heart intelligence, are generally aligned with those of Fredrickson. Both approaches recognize how order and balance in the nervous system and smooth, harmonious and coherent heart rhythms enhance our ability to clearly perceive a far larger universe of experience. The ensuing connections widen the windows of perception to view ourselves as no longer separate, but part of a unified whole. Accumulated micro-moments of love communicated through synchronized gazes, touches and vocalizations forge a shared subjective appreciation of connection and oneness. We feel ourselves embodying positive resonance and experience easier and more immediate rapport in familial, familiar and even new relationships. We discover abundant opportunities to feel love, loved and loving as we make ourselves available to them. Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Connect at ItsAllAboutWe.com.

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by Linda Sechrist

atigue due to physical or mental exertion is common in those beleaguered by stress, poor eating habits and insomnia, struggling to balance the needs of family and career and too often using caffeine and other stimulants to artificially rebound energy. James L. Wilson, Ph.D., a doctor of chiropractic and naturopathy, educates medical professionals about an even more serious health issue he identifies as â&#x20AC;&#x153;adrenal fatigueâ&#x20AC;?; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s characterized by below-optimal adrenal function induced by an overload of such stressors. Our two walnut-sized adrenal glands, one atop each kidney, produce vital hormones that help control heart rate, blood pressure, digestion and many other functions, including how the body deals with stress.

Identifying the Core Issue

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In his book, Adrenal Fatigue: The 21st Century Stress Syndrome, Wilson sheds light on the scope of the problem. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The fact that adrenal fatigue is unrecognized by conventional medicine has left millions of people suffering from an untreated problem that interferes with their ability to function 6XQFRDVW 5HLNL normally and capacity to enjoy life. For those whose adrenal (QHUJ\ +HDOLQJ &OHDULQJ glands are â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;running on emptyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, even something as basic as happiness almost out of reach,â&#x20AC;? comments Wilson, 5RELQseems +HDWRQ 0DVWHU &+7 who 5HLNL resides in Tucson, Arizona. 1XWULWLRQLVW Individuals suffering from adrenal fatigue are most 7KHUDSXWLF ,QWXLWLYH concerned about their low moods, energy, mental acuity and 1HXUROLQN 3UDFWLWLRQHU libido, for which conventional medicine typically prescribes 6ZLIW 5G antidepressant and anti-anxiety drugs. These medications do 6DUDVRWD )/ nothing to revive adrenal functioning. This faulty condition also affects weight gain and a ZZZ UHLNLQDWXUDOKHDOWK FRP propensity toward the development of some diseases, including

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fibromyalgia. “Your resiliency, energy, endurance and very life depend on the proper functioning of the adrenals,” Wilson says. We’ve inherited our sympathetic nervous system and its stress response of fight-or-flight from our prehistoric ancestors. It hasn’t evolved to differentiate between an acute threat to survival and the chronic threats from looming deadlines, financial pressures and other modern-day worries. “The adrenal stress response to physical danger or any perceived psychological threat is identical—the release of norepinephrine and epinephrine responsible for cascading physiological reactions,” explains Dr. Vijay Jain, who treats fatigue from an integrative perspective at his Mind Body Wellness Center, in Palm Coast, Florida.

Suggested Treatments

Adrenal fatigue is mainly a self-induced health problem that doesn’t just appear. It results from an accumulation of ongoing choices that we can change. Jain applies ayurvedic principles to reestablish balance in the body’s three prominent mind-body types that influence personal well-being. These are known as vata, pitta and kapha. For people primarily characterized by vata and pitta typology, fatigue is the result of being overactive and burning the candle at both ends. For those with kapha constitutions, fatigue is the outcome of a sedentary lifestyle with insufficient movement and eating the wrong foods for them. He further recommends getting more sleep with regular bedtimes, practices such as yoga nidra meditation, pranayama (yogic breathing) and a slower-paced yoga practice with longerheld meditative poses, as well as massage and a diet designed to restore our biological energies, or doshas, to a balanced state. “Depending on a patient’s constitution I advise some to slow down and burn 50 percent less of their candle, while I tell others to increase their physical activity and improve their diet.” Jain also recommends a type of ayurvedic purification and detoxification treatment that involves a series of five therapies including massage and herbal treatments. Performed in sequence, these allow the body and mind to drop into a state of peacefulness. Acupuncture treatments are also helpful, along with a regimen of adaptogenic herbs such as ginseng, schisandra and ashwagandha, according to Jain. In Happy Healthy Thyroid: The Essential Steps to Healing Naturally, author Andrea Beaman writes about how she recovered naturally from adrenal fatigue. To restore energy and vitality to the body, she further recommends the healing practices of hatha yoga, qigong and tai chi. “These modalities build energy, whereas power yoga, and cardiovascular exercises drain energy in fatigued individuals,” advises Beaman. She notes that it can take six months to two years to restore desired energy levels. Beaman counsels individuals with behavioral characteristics that make it more challenging to burn less of their candle. She grabs their attention with the critical nature of their situation. “‘You are in and out of life in a blink. If you’re exhausted at age 48, how are you going to live a vibrant, happy and exuberant life right up to the finish line?’ That generally works,” she says. Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Connect at ItsAllAboutWe.com.

More Tips to Beat Fatigue by Linda Sechrist

he earliest signs of adrenal fatigue are low energy and the need for several strong shots of caffeine to kick-start the morning or get through an afternoon slump. If these symptoms arise, take steps to begin nourishing, restoring and de-stressing the adrenal glands. Eliminate stressors. Reevaluate daily schedules to make room for a regular session of yoga, meditation, tai chi or qigong. Establish a regular sleeping schedule aligned with the body’s natural cycle. Slipping between the sheets no later than 10 p.m. can mean better and deeper rest. Make dietary changes, starting with 40 grams of protein each morning. Limit the intake of stimulants, including caffeine. Eliminate sugar and processed grains. Add adaptogenic herbs and organic coconut and olive oils to dishes and food preparation. Eat nutritious foods such as greens and brightly colored vegetables. As a result, blood sugar and insulin levels will take fewer rollercoaster rides, easing the work of the adrenals. Refrain from over-exercising. Excessive cardio or endurance training is hard on the adrenals, so substitute more relaxing forms of exercise. Practice calming mindfulness and deep, controlled, diaphragmatic breathing.

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FITNESS 2017 New Year’s Resolutions that Stick by Aimee Hughes

very January, we rally our hopes, vowing that this time our New Year’s resolutions will finally stick. However, “If you don’t have a plan, plan to fail,” says Kansas City, Missouri, personal trainer Jake Albracht. We can make our health and fitness goals for 2017 a reality instead of just wishful thinking. Find a good trainer. “A personal trainer provides a helpful base of knowledge because the hardest part for most people is a lack of planning and diligence in following up. Trainers can step in to help a client achieve their goals,” says Albracht. Jeanne Rankin, assistant strength and conditioning coach at the University of Kentucky, in Lexington, adds, “A personal trainer can also help you set lofty goals that you wouldn’t have considered on your own due to fear of failure in achieving them.” Secure personal attention. Individual attention is invaluable. Albracht notes, “There’s nothing like the instant feedback with technique, information and support that one-on-one training provides.” Rankin adds, “In ongoing individual evaluation, a personal trainer can see exactly what’s going well and what

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

isn’t, providing a better assessment than in a group.” “Group settings can also be positive and mimic a team environment, but a one-on-one relationship allows for a deeper bond of trust. Sometimes that can make all the difference in the world,” Albracht explains. Ask questions. If engaging a personal trainer isn’t in our available budget, they are often willing to answer a few burning fitness questions. Most of us have had volunteer teachers at some point in our lives that expected nothing in return because they loved sharing what they know. It’s a slower process, but can be a viable option. Set realistic goals. “I tell clients that structuring a program of specific goals will always trump a non-structured program,” says Albracht. “They need to fill out a goals sheet and develop a personal model that is repeatable, sustainable and successful. We use the SMART acronym for specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and timely.” Sometimes writing things down is just what’s needed to make them actually happen. “When you look at pictures of famous people in magazines, realize

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that the images have been Photoshopped. They also have access to the best and most expensive resources in the world, and looking good is their job,” reminds Rankin. “Set a goal, and then set a bunch of small, achievable, measurable and quantifiable steps along the way that’ll push you towards that bigger goal.” For example, If the goal is to lose 50 pounds in a year, then maybe shoot to lose 30 pounds in the first six months and 20 in the second six months. “Breaking it up into what feels doable for you is key,” says Rankin. Establish intentions. Krysten Clark, a Los Angeles personal trainer, yoga teacher and founder of Yogva Nutrition, uses the SMART elements along with establishing an intention for each session. She states, “It’s important to recognize what ‘being healthy’ means to you. I always have my clients set an intention for their workout in the moment, which allows them to be fully present with what they’re doing and why they’re doing it. Connecting with their ‘why’ proves powerful in a day-to-day practice.” She also strives to bring mindfulness into any fitness workout that evolves from a mind-body connection. The accompanying sense of self-compassion furthers progress in the neverending process of personal growth and healthy living. Acquire a fitness posse. An accountability partner can be a friend or a personal trainer—someone that’s only a phone call away. Rankin observes, “If you know that you are letting someone down by not working out, then you are more likely to stick to a plan, especially if you’re paying that person.” Hit the reset button if needed. “Set a deadline to attain a goal and work backwards from there to achieve it,” advises Albracht. “If the goal is missed, reassess and plan again.” Be patient and forgive yourself as often as necessary if slip-ups occur. The ultimate results of feeling good and healthier provide their own payoff. 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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December 2016

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uring jam-packed special occasions like holidays, our drinks should multitask, too. We need festive tipples to refresh us without overdoing it, restore equilibrium if we overeat or drink or revive us when we’re feeling low from a seasonal cold or flu. In addition to traditional offerings that family and friends might expect, why not add a new and improved signature drink to everyone’s repertoire? These feel-good beverages, featuring winter fruits high in vitamin C, anthocyanins, therapeutic herbs and fresh ginger, deliver delicious boosts to help us feel our best.

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The season of hospitality is happily also the season of pomegranates, blood oranges and Meyer lemons (a sweeter, thin-skinned, aromatic variety). These vibrant fruits give a taste of good cheer to anything we can pour, shake, muddle or simmer. Whether we offer fresh-squeezed blood orange juice in the morning, a nonalcoholic cocktail of pomegranate juice and sparkling water, or a squeeze of Meyer lemon juice in a hot toddy or tea, the tart flavor is a sure pick-me-up. The red color in antioxidant-rich blood oranges and pomegranates indicates the presence of anthocyanins, compounds that might help prevent cancer and heart disease, as well as treat eye disorders, according to an article published in the Journal of Biomedicine and Biotechnology. Meyer lemons are a good source of vitamin C, essential for producing collagen needed to support the formation of new bone, blood vessels, ligaments and tendons, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.

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Restore

After an evening of over-imbibing, our systems need to reboot. The stomach needs help in processing alcohol, plus we may be dehydrated and feeling a little queasy. Filtered water, coconut water or a sweet, caffeine-free coffee or carbonated beverage of the lemon-lime variety rehydrate, as well as help our digestive system break down and flush out the alcohol. According to Registered Dietitian Aicacia Young, in Austin, Texas, founder of ClimbHealthy.com, the simple act of drinking water before we go to bed can assist in the recovery process. Research published in the Food & Function journal found that lemonlime soda helps the body metabolize alcohol better by speeding up its ability to process the compound aldehyde dehydrogenase, the main cause of hangover symptoms. For nausea and motion sickness, ginger or peppermint tea can help, according to studies in the American Journal of Physiology and the French Prescrire International.

Revive

Sometimes the stress of holiday to-dos, often combined with travel, can lower the resilience of our immune system. When we feel symptoms of a cold or flu coming on, the classic hot toddy can help us feel human again. The alcohol in whiskey is a natural decongestant; plus, it helps get us to sleep. Honey soothes and perky lemon juice gives us hope that we’ll feel better the next day. Judith Fertig writes cookbooks and foodie fiction from Overland Park, KS. Connect at JudithFertig.com.

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Seasonal Drinks that Revitalize

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The best holiday drinks are festive and taste great. They should also be easy to fix. Here are five to get us started.

Yields: 1 serving

Combine 1 liter of cabernet sauvignon, a quart of pomegranate juice, ¼ cup agave nectar, 1 thinly sliced Meyer lemon and 1 thinly sliced pear in a pitcher. Add ice and stir. Pour into glasses to serve.

Bring 1 cup of water to a boil. While it’s boiling, place 7 to 10 fresh organic mint leaves in a tea cup. Pour the hot water over the mint leaves and let them steep in the cup for 5 minutes. Strain out leaves as desired, and enjoy. Courtesy of Heather Crosby, author of YumUniverse: Infinite Possibilities for a Gluten-Free, Plant-Powerful, WholeFood Lifestyle; YumUniverse.com/ fresh-peppermint-tea.

Meyer Lemon Hot Toddy

Holiday Sangria Yields: 8 servings

Fresh Hot Ginger Tea

Blood Orange French 75

Fresh Hot Peppermint Tea

Yields: 1 serving

Yields: 2 servings

In a champagne flute, pour a jigger of gin, the juice of half a blood orange and a squeeze of Meyer lemon juice. Top up with champagne. Courtesy of Kathryne Taylor, a whole foods and vegetarian blogger; Search CookieAndKate.com.

Bring 2 cups of water to a boil, and then add 1 small knob of fresh ginger, precut into thin slices. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Strain out the ginger slices and serve in a mug.

Bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Remove from the heat. Stir in the juice of half a Meyer lemon, a tablespoon or two of honey and a jigger of whiskey. Serve hot in a mug. Courtesy of Judith Fertig, Alfresco FoodAndLifestyle.blogspot.com.

Courtesy of Judith Fertig, Alfresco FoodAndLifestyle.blogspot.com.

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December 2016

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Krista Tippett on Our Evolving Spirituality Why it Evokes Hope by Randy Kambic

rista Tippett helps us ponder the meaning of life as host and executive producer of On Being, the award-winning weekly radio program and podcast produced in Minneapolis for more than 400 public radio stations. The bestselling author of Einstein’s God: Conversations About Science and the Human Spirit has been acclaimed for thoughtfully delving into the mysteries of human existence. Her latest book, Becoming Wise: An Inquiry into the Mystery and Art of Living, reflects upon how spirituality intersects with science, technology, health, art and politics. This daughter of a Southern Baptist minister first launched her show, originally titled Speaking of Faith (also the title of her first book), on Minnesota Public Radio/American Public Media in 2003. Today, Tippett continues to discuss faith, spirit, inner growth and what it is to be human with leading authors, thought leaders and pioneering change makers. She also hosts online classes and a blog.

How has On Being evolved to reflect existing dimensions of spirituality that have proven surprising? I am fascinated with how spiritual life and religious identity have evolved in the last decade. This part of life is more fluid than it’s ever been in human history. We are the first generation that didn’t inherit religious identity like we 40

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do a hometown. We craft our spiritual lives and choose our faith, even if it’s the faith of our families. In many that don’t claim a religious affiliation, especially Millennials, I encounter a spiritual curiosity and ethical passion akin to religion at its best. Because seekers dwell both inside and outside of traditions, my life of conversation stretches beyond boundaries in ways I did not expect when I began. I also never imagined that I’d interview physicists, evolutionary biologists and neuroscientists exploring territory previously reserved for theologians and philosophers. Together, they are illuminating the ancient questions related to our place in the cosmos; the nature of human freedom and consciousness; even beauty and the reality of mystery.

Which guests do you feel have resonated the most with listeners and why? A show that seems to have touched more people most deeply is my interview with the Irish poet, philosopher and author John O’Donohue just before he died in his early 50s. He radiated such an unusual combination of qualities: wisdom, tenderness and playfulness; mysticism, theology and a raw Celtic earthiness. He’s someone who could speak of God with great wildness, strangeness—and authority. He inspired with his vision of beauty as a human calling and somehow embodied it for

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the listener. I meet all kinds of people that keep that show on their playlist and listen again and again. In general, my favorite guest is the most recent person interviewed. At the moment, it’s Jimmy Wales, the Wikipedia co-founder, who stunned me with his insistence on kindness as the virtue that’s made this nonprofit’s ethos and accomplishments possible. Another is civil rights veteran Ruby Sales, who wisely works to uplift the human drama of our political/social moment, like the way we must come to be as articulate about what we love as about what outrages us.

How do you see people’s awakening sensibilities influencing local and global issues? I am drawn to the notion that we are in the adolescence of our species. The globe right now is like a map of the teenage brain, prone to recklessness and destruction in places and simultaneously possessing vast potentials for creativity and advances. So many are relentless in telling the story of destruction that it seriously colors how we tell the story of our time. I stand among those shining a light on the abundant beauty, goodness and courage in our world so these become more visible and evident at a global level.

Are you optimistic about the future? I am hopeful about the future. My life of meaningful conversation has led me to re-imagine the meaning of hope. It has nothing to do with wishful thinking, but rests on the lives of beauty and goodness I see everywhere I turn. It’s a choice—a more exacting and courageous choice than cynicism or resignation. The pain and fear alive in the world surface as anger and violence, and some of us are called to be calmers of fear. We must create the world we want our children to inhabit and do so together. Hope isn’t an option on this path; it is one of our primary resources for getting there. Randy Kambic is a freelance writer and editor in Estero, FL, and regular contributor to Natural Awakenings.

Chinese Health Gem of the Month:

De-Stressing for the Holidays by Rene Ng, DOM, AP, L.Ac.

ow time flies––in the blink of an eye, the Christmas season is upon us already. Aside from being an important religious season, it also represents for many people the most commercialized time of year. Although intended to be joyful and festive, the holidays often cause increased amounts of stress. Decisions about which gifts to purchase, how to budget for these expenses, where to host the out-of-town guests and other obligations can provoke anxiety. This season can also be lonely or depressing for those without family or who recently lost someone, causing unpleasant memories to resurface. Here are some positive tips on how to cope with the complex emotions that often seem inevitable during this holiday season: 1. Take leisurely walks and breathe deeply. Fresh air is beneficial for the lungs and can relieve stress, anxiety or sadness. 2. Eat foods which are easy to digest. Often, stress can affect the intestinal tract, impairing both the digestive and bowel movement processes. 3. Go to a comedy show, or get together with friends for an evening of much-needed laughter. 4. Drink peppermint or chrysanthemum teas, of which are ideal for regulating the liver system which is often affected by stress. Once the liver becomes impaired, a person will exhibit various types of emotional imbal-

ances like depression, anger, irritability or anxiety. 5. Visit a toy store and relive positive memories from your own childhood. Feel the energy and excitement inside you once again and remember what makes this season special. 6. Avoid alcoholic drinks and sour foods, as these will impair the liver which, as previously mentioned, is crucial in enabling you to manage your emotions. 7. Purchase a fish tank or go someplace where a fish tank already exits, then spend time watching the fish swim. This repetitive motion evokes a calming sensation. 8. Practice meditation, yoga, Qi Gong and Tai Chi to help your body relax and promote smooth energy flow. 9. Spend time immersed and surrounded by nature to help you feel both rooted and balanced. 10. Avoid overeating and overdrinking or engaging in behaviors you will ultimately regret. This will only cause you to become more stressed. I hope you all have a Merry Christmas, and best wishes for a happy, healthy and exciting 2017! Rene Ng, DOM, AP, L.Ac., is a board-certified, licensed Acupuncture Physician and Chinese Herbalist in Sarasota. He is a four-time winner of Sarasota’s “Favorite Acupuncture Physician” award and runs an Acupuncture practice located near the Sarasota Memorial Hospital. For more information, call 941-773-5156 or email RNG@ ChineseMedicalSolutions.com.

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December 2016

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December 2016

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Fetch, Stretch, Dance Make Your Dog an Exercise Buddy

an and woman’s best four-legged friend can activate and energize even the most reluctant couch potato or exhausted owner, making the family dog an excellent exercise buddy. Regardless of how lax we may be, everyone feels better after some kind of workout. A study published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology confirms that working up a sweat outdoors affords an appealing boost of energy, enjoyment and improved state of mind. Dogs love routine, so they’ll be waiting by the door for their daily walks. Make each outing mindful by letting the pet choose the route and pace. While they stop to sniff, do hamstring stretches by leaning against a wall, fence or tree. Once the warm-up portion is completed, add sprints to burn more calories. Ask for a sit, pick a goal a short distance away and then give the cue to run together fast. After arriving at the goal, ask for another sit. “Our favorite time to go is before 7 a.m. to avoid cars and when the asphalt isn’t too hot for his paws,” says Monica Weintraub, a food and travel blogger currently working from Beijing, China. “Carl loves the burst of energy, and we both build muscle.”

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A backyard agility course can complement or even substitute for walks. It’s easy to make with weave poles, jumps and tunnels. Vary the order of the obstacles and run alongside the dog to call out each one. When it’s excessively wet, cold and icy or hot outside, create an indoor agility course. Use blankets and upturned chairs for tunnels, cardboard boxes to designate a weaving trot and a hula hoop for jumps. Set it up on top of rugs that foster firm footing. Balance can also be improved with exercise balls. While some dogs only see a soccer game, others try to balance on the ball, strengthening core muscles like their humans. Learning doga, or yoga for dogs, incorporates a canine’s natural trainability, flexibility, mimicry of human moves and desire to please. Kristen Corral, who’s also certified in animal massage, teaches Anima yoga fusion classes for people and pets of all ages in Las Vegas. “Anima means an expression of one’s true inner self,” she explains. “We work on balance and never force the dogs into poses. They’re excited during the first sessions, but as you move and breathe

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by Sandra Murphy

together, it becomes a calming and relaxing activity.” Floor exercises with the help of a dog also helps strengthen core muscles. Do leg lifts and teach the pet to walk under a raised leg to ensure it stays raised for the proper amount of time. Incorporate fetch games with sit-ups; throw the toy when sitting up and accept it back while reclining. Alternate arms—the dominant one has better aim, while the other one adds steps for the dog as it runs to fetch an errant toss. For chair exercises, use a toy to lure the dog under the chair, moving it from side-to-side, simultaneously working the waistline. Fetch lets the dog chase the toy before dropping it in front of the chair, giving the owner’s core muscles a workout when bending to pick it up each time. Dogs love to play hide-and-seek. It’s easy with two people; one holds the dog while the other hides. If solo, teach the pet to sit until a timer goes off before starting the hunt. “I ask Felix, my mixed-breed dog, to hold a sit-stay while I go hide,” says Chantelle Wallace, a professional writer who volunteers to exercise animals at Skyline Pet Care and Fitness, in Austin, Texas. “Hide and seek activates both mental focus and physical exercise.” Dancing to favorite tunes expends lots of energy. Dogs may perform obedience moves to the beat or, like humans, dance like nobody’s watching. Scientists at the University of Missouri are among those that have found that music improves moods, too. Teaching a dog to help around the house impresses everybody and takes advantage of bad weather to catch up on chores. They can tour a laundry basket to bedrooms, pick up trash or place items for recycling in a bin. Select individual items to be carried up or down stairs for a muscular workout. Take some tips from Jesse, a most helpful dog, at Tinyurl.com/HouseholdHelpPooch. When our will to exercise is wavering, an eager dog will help keep an exercise routine interesting and on track. The dog’s goal is always to have fun with their favorite person. Connect with freelance writer Sandra Murphy at StLouisFreelanceWriter@ mindspring.com.

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December 2016

healthykids

inspired by The Nutcracker’s Sugar Plum Fairy.

Kzenon/Shutterstock.com

Gingerbread House Update “Building a gingerbread house is a time-honored tradition for many families,” says Jacquie Fisher, a Kansas City, Missouri, mom who masterminds the educational blog and kid-friendly adventure postings at KCEdventures. com. Learning to construct the edible structure is intriguing fun. “Testing out how to balance the walls, construct a roof and put together a fun little structure is the perfect intro to some basic physics principles,” she notes. Because she’s not a fan of sugar icing and candy add-ons, Fisher’s kids connect over how to make Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’s stable with whole-wheat graham crackers “glued” together with a homemade maple caramel mixed with coconut milk. They decorate using dried fruit, nuts, dry cereal and flaked coconut.

hen sugar was a commodHealthier Holiday Snacks ity only the wealthy could Mothers Amy Roskelley and Natalie afford, “visions of sugarMonson, of Provo, Utah, agree that raisplums” danced in the heads of chiling healthy kids is a challenge. Dealing dren ensconced in Clement Moore’s with picky eaters, getting family mem’Twas the Night Before Christmas. bers to exercise and sourcing organic Now, cheap candy is everywhere and baby care products are all in a day’s not all that special. What is special work for them. It’s why they founded is making memories aligned with SuperHealthyKids.com. Subscribers contemporary traditions while enjoying naturally sweet, healthy treats that have access to meal plans, recipes and healthy parenting tips. Recent advice kids will remember helping to create. includes ditching prepackaged popcorn “It’s important to limit sugary snacks, even during the holidays,” says (listing unpronounceable ingredients) Claire McCarthy, a Boston Children’s and instead making the treat at home— Hospital pediatrician, Harvard Medical popping kernels in coconut oil and School assistant professor of pediatrics topping the result with maple snickerand senior editor for Harvard Health doodle flavorings. Publications. She is also a mother of Many moms turn to online boards elementary school kids. “We need to for party ideas. Fun photos posted use the opportunity—any opportunity there guide kids in creating naturally these days—to teach children and sweet treats, such as fresh fruit skewfamilies about eating healthy.” ers shaped like elves or magic wands Natural Awakenings recommends using organic and non-GMO (genetically modified) ingredients whenever possible.

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For healthy alternatives to sugary candy, savvy parents source sweet treats made with 100 percent fruit juice and fair trade chocolate available at health food stores and markets. Registered Dietitian Abbie Gellman, in New York City, reinvents the Hanukkah gelt, or foil-wrapped chocolate coins, that Jewish children traditionally receive. She flattens dried apricots with a kitchen mallet, dips them in melted dark chocolate and then sprinkles the treats with sea salt. We can always make wonderful memories true to the spirit of holiday traditions, and do it today in a healthier way. Judith Fertig writes cookbooks and foodie fiction from Overland Park, KS (JudithFertig.com).

Gina Smith/Shutterstock.com

Christmas Stocking Stuffer and Hanukkah Gelt

photo by Stephen Blancett

Apricot Gelt Yields: 12 servings (6 pieces per person)

Fruit Skewer Elves

1½ lb dried apricots 1 lb dark chocolate chips 1 Tbsp coarse sea salt

Yields: 12 servings

12 cocktail sticks or short bamboo skewers 12 seedless green grapes 12 strawberries, hulled 1 firm banana, peeled and cut into 12 thin rounds 1 mozzarella stick, cut into 12 rounds

Using a heavy skillet or mallet, flatten apricots to ¼-inch thickness and set aside. Place chocolate in the top of a doubleboiler over simmering water and stir until the chocolate has melted.

Popcorn: 1 tsp coconut oil, melted ½ cup popcorn kernels

Dip each apricot in chocolate, coating ½ to ¾ of the apricot. Place on wire racks set over parchment or wax paper and sprinkle with sea salt. Let stand until set.

Maple Snickerdoodle Topping: 1 Tbsp coconut oil 2 Tbsp pure maple syrup ½ tsp cinnamon Sea salt to taste

Transfer apricots to baking sheets lined with parchment or wax paper and refrigerate until firm. The gelt may be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days.

Heat the coconut oil in a medium saucepan, with a lid, over medium heat. Add 3 kernels of popcorn and wait for them to pop. Once the test kernels start to pop, add the rest, cover and allow to pop, shaking occasionally until popping slows to a near stop.

Adapted from a recipe by Abbie Gellman, SPECertified.com/blog/view/ apricot-gelt-recipe.

Yields: About 5 cups

For each skewer, thread a green grape to the bottom of the skewer to create the elf face. Top with a round banana slice to make the pale trim around the hat, then an upside-down hulled strawberry to form the pointy hat. Add a mozzarella round to make the pompom at the point of the hat. Serve right away.

photo by Stephen Blancett

Maple Snickerdoodle Popcorn

Holiday Fairy Wands

Yields: 12 servings

Pour the popcorn into a large bowl and set aside.

12 long bamboo skewers 24 seedless green grapes 12 chunks of fresh pineapple 12 strawberries, hulled 2 starfruit (carambola), cut into 12 slices

Serve immediately making additional sea salt available. Courtesy of Amy Roskelley and Natalie Monson, SuperHealthyKids.com/ maple-snickerdoodle-popcorn.

iuliia_n/Shutterstock.com

For the topping, whisk together the coconut oil, maple syrup and cinnamon, until well combined. Pour over the popcorn and mix well. Sprinkle the top with a few pinches of sea salt, mix again and taste.

For each skewer, thread a green grape 3 inches from the bottom of the skewer, leaving room to hold the wand. Next, thread a chunk of pineapple, then another grape. Thread a strawberry, pointed end up. Add a slice of starfruit to make the star on the end of the wand. Serve immediately.

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December 2016

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Rudolph the Reindeer’s Stable Yields: 1 stable Graham crackers Small paintbrushes Assorted fresh and dried fruits for decoration, such as blackberries, pomegranate arils and kiwi fruit Dry cereal, such as Rice Chex, and flaked coconut for decoration Pecan halves for roof shingles Vegan Maple Caramel “Glue”: 1 cup canned coconut milk (shake the can well before opening and measuring) 3 Tbsp maple syrup 1 tsp vanilla extract Pinch sea salt For the vegan maple caramel, place all ingredients in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir until the mixture comes to a boil. Keep cooking until the caramel thickens and darkens to a caramel color, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat and let cool until just warm to the touch, then use for glue. If you like, make the caramel mixture ahead, store in the refrigerator and then microwave until just warm. Dab the bottom of 1 double graham cracker with the maple caramel glue; then attach it to a dinner plate to make the stable floor. Glue on three walls, a fence and a roof. When the structure is solid, use more warm caramel mix to attach the desired decorations on the stable, fence and perhaps a courtyard out front. If necessary, reheat the edible glue in the microwave. Let dry for 1 hour. Courtesy of Jacquie Fisher, KCEdventures.com/blog/healthygingerbread-house-ideas.

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

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December 2016

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A Gorgeously Greener Holiday Fresh Thinking About Décor by Avery Mack

ature’s holiday decorations can transcend cliché pine wreaths or farmed trees to make highly personalized indoor décor that supersedes traditional greenery. Yet mistletoe, holly leaves and berries, eucalyptus, poinsettias, tree needles, acorns and a cut tree’s water reservoir can be harmful to both pets and children. Here are some better choices.

The Tree

For smaller spaces or to make a state-

ment, try grouping topiary trees of varying heights draped with solar twinkle lights and small ornaments or fresh flowers to create a focal point in a bay window. “A lemon-lime cypress lends another burst of unexpected color on an entry hall table,” says freelance floral designer Janet Corrao, in Nutley, New Jersey. “It smells good, too.” Plants six inches tall work well. Corrao suggests setting the pots in colorful, inexpensive metal buckets from craft stores for

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added glamour. Unless deemed a hazard to active kids or pets, set up a mid-sized stepstool on a table or open a six-foot ladder in a corner and hang ornaments down the center space; add garlands and lights and set potted flowers and small gift boxes on the steps. Search “alternative Christmas trees” at Pinterest. com for more ideas. Another option uses hedge-like plants in lieu of a tree. Consider an English or Japanese boxwood plant or evergreen lilly pilly, and then trim to the desired size and shape. Plant it outdoors as weather and climate permit.

The Table

“While we were working on a photo shoot, the photographer decided to include a Christmas scene. I was able to add fresh greenery from the property to the red ornaments and white orchids that I’d brought along. It made a striking centerpiece running the entire length of the table,” says florist Angie Zimmerman, of Angie Zimmerman Designs, in El Dorado Hills, California. “For the fireplace mantel I used branches with red berries to add height on either side of the central mirror and then duplicated the centerpiece design between them.” A festive table can be dressed with appealing edibles. Use a bread wreath as a base and stud it with skewered basil leaves, cherry tomatoes and small balls of fresh mozzarella cheese for an easy, self-serve, Caprese appetizer. A colorful dish of balsamic dressing or another dip in the center, along with small plates and holiday napkins, completes the offering. For a sit-down dinner variant, place a few Caprese skewers in small,

clear, glass vases along the table with individual finger bowls of dip. Flat-leafed green parsley sprigs add another special touch. Zimmerman further suggests using deep-red Roma apples, cored, as candle holders. Make living place cards with small pots of herbs. Chalkboard paint identifies the plant and guest seating. Also consider colorful painted pots sporting a small cactus. Transform oranges into aromatic pomanders by scoring the rinds with a citrus stripper in a spiral, circle or other pattern. Use a small nail to make holes and stud the fruits with whole cloves. Adding seasonal greenery and sterilized pine cones makes a beautiful and fragrant centerpiece.

The Front Door

“I love to use pine cones for centerpieces,” Corrao says. “Our weather is cold enough that I don’t have to worry about bugs when collecting cones in the neighborhood.” For warmer climates, bake the pine cones for 30 minutes in a 200-degree oven to melt excess sap, kill insects and fully open them. Sold online or in kitchenware stores, a bay leaf wreath offers cheer at the door. After the holidays, hang it in the kitchen for easy access. “Kumquats, lemons, tangerines, small oranges and crabapples add color to green wreaths,” notes Corrao.

Garlands

For many, Christmas demands the smell of fresh pine boughs. Spice up the traditional greenery with carnations or other light-hued flowers colored with the juices of fresh, canned or frozen fruits and veggies—red from cranberries, beets and cherries; yellow and orange from yellow onions and carrots; purple from blackberries; green from spinach; pink from strawberries; and blue from red cabbage or blueberries. Freshly cut the flower stems and put them in the liquid from crushed produce or the can to absorb color. Hang garlands out of reach of young children and pets. Navjot Kaur, of Navjot Designs, in Chicago, says, “We all have greenery in our yard or patio gardens that can be used for the holidays. It’s fun to alter the design based upon what is available.” Imagination and inspiration can spark new, greener traditions.

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Connect with the freelance writer via AveryMack@mindspring.com. natural awakenings

December 2016

found a place for the imminent birth of their child in a stable through the kindness of a stranger. Then, shortly thereafter, they were forced to escape a terrible calamity to save the life of their unborn child. What guided them and attracted their good? Spiritual realization and powerful faith in God.

Give Peace a Chance

Holy Days or Holidaze? Finding the Balance and Opening to the Luminous

by Juliette Jones

Peace on Earth

s I reflect upon the traditional affirmations of the holiday season, I find myself preparing to resonate with the idea of “Peace on Earth.” We are supposed to be giving some consideration to these thoughts, aren’t we? Maybe even putting them into practice? Easier said than done; for many people, the holidays trigger an elevated level of stress or depression. Whether due to negative memories, missing family members, increased pressure to perform obligations, the loss of employment or unmet expectations––whatever the cause––the holidays can be challenging. Yet the core values and history behind most holidays are meant to invoke the opposite of tension and negativity. Certainly, there is room for solemnity, introspection, and the opportunity to strive for inner peace, joy and celebration. However, in my view, becoming over-involved with material expectations and all that hype which dances before our eyes during this season can engender a common cultural trance known as the “holidaze.” How long have we humans inhabited the earth? Estimates range far upward from about 6,000 years. The advent of industrialization began only a few hundred years ago, yet technology moves at the speed of light. Still, the art of living peacefully has not evolved much––if at all. More and more people are now asking themselves, “Is a paradigm shift really possible to accommodate world peace?” As individuals, we can contribute to a peaceful world in numerous ways, but many circumstances are beyond our control which often feels both confusing and shocking. If we are to find peace, we must look first to the inner life––processing wounds, tensions and disappointments; cultivating clarity and discipline in the face of challenges; showing respect and care for ourselves; eliminating stress wherever possible; prioritizing our connection with the “kingdom within”; and simply taking one day at a time. Spiritual accomplishment comes to the fore during times of tumult and danger. For example, consider the circumstances surrounding the “first family” of Christmas. These poverty-stricken refugees, who were living on the road, 52

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Over the years, I have found a number of ways to avoid “holidaze.” For example, procuring gifts for friends and loved ones can be accomplished throughout the year––not at the last moment. Whenever I find something that would make a special gift for someone, I purchase it on-the-spot. Then, I immediately wrap, tag and store it. This mediates several types of stress including last-minute rush and financial strain come January. Some gift ideas even work well across-theboard. As a beekeeper, I know that raw, natural honey is a good choice. It’s sweet, supportive of health, traditionally related to celebration, and almost everyone is thrilled to receive some. Holiday get-togethers are not always possible and definitely not pleasant for everyone. So, find a surprising and unexpected way to approach difficult situations that promotes peace and harmony––even from a distance. Avoid guilt, project love and protect your internal tranquility. Finally, give yourself a special gift involving self-care–– whether a spontaneous day-off, a walk on the beach, a massage or an overnight getaway at your favorite hotel. Perhaps even invite a close friend to join you. Allow yourself to indulge in whatever activity lifts the spirit and renews a sense of well-being.

The Stars Are Brightly Shining Since ancient times, evergreen trees have been regarded as sacred symbols, but the tradition of the Christmas tree is thought to have emerged as the creation of sixteenth-century Protestant reformer Martin Luther. One clear winter night, as he walked through the snow covered forest, reflecting on thoughts of God, he became awestruck by the brilliance of the stars as they appeared from underneath evergreen boughs. In order to convey the power of this transpersonal experience to his family, Luther cut down an evergreen tree, wired its branches with candles and gave it a place of honor inside his home. While no one knows how Luther’s family reacted to this highly inspired fire hazard, the power of that transpersonal moment in the woods ultimately gave birth to this timehonored tradition. Christmas trees are powerfully symbolic and have a magic about them. I keep a living tree in the backyard and care for it year-round, then bring it inside for the holidays adorned with lights and ornaments. “Personal experience is the only way to gain wisdom. It is also the only way to know something without a shadow of a doubt.” ––Jack Schwarz There’s no question that a powerful, direct revelation within the light of mind can become a life-changing experience and gift of grace. Light contains information, and luminous events appear in many forms––dreams, visions, synchronicities,

out-of-body or near-death experiences, and other unique events. Although sometimes difficult to explain to others who have not undergone a similar experience, these awarenesses convey gnosis and information about our spiritual nature, connecting us to deeper levels of consciousness.

The Peace that Passes All Understanding The most profound and lasting realizations of peace come from “gifts of grace” conferred through transpersonal experience. Two decades of service to hospice have taught me that spiritual peace makes itself known to people in many ways. During her eighty-eighth year, my mother was admitted to a hospice program under the assumption that she might have a limited number of weeks to live. She was never a churchgoer but professed her faith through unconditional love and forgiveness. Her single theological message was succinct and simple, “Christ is real.” At the time, my work responsibilities were heavy, but my mind was always with her. One morning, as I passed through that “twilight zone” which lies between sleep and wakefulness, I had a vivid, lucid dream wherein Christ stood before me with his mother at his side. His message was simple and transmitted telepathically, “Today I come for your mother.” Upon awakening, I felt myself absolutely overwhelmed with bliss, and for a time, I even possessed a powerful awareness of sacred knowledge. “Let not your heart be troubled” had profound penetrating significance, and I understood the depth of what it meant––unshakable, even in the face of my mother’s death. I was honored to be present with her as she passed from the physical realm late that afternoon, and for eight days afterward, I felt divinely guided and almost entirely free from grief––something which would have been unimaginable. That is the power of a genuine transpersonal experience. “You can’t expect anyone to trust revelation if he hasn’t experienced it himself. Those who haven’t only know reason. And since revelation is a thing apart, and cannot be accounted for reasonably, they never will believe you. This is the great division of the world and always has been. When reason and revelation run together, then you have something great, a great age.” ––Mark Halprin, Winter’s Tale

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December 2016

A Natural Home for the Holidays

Dispose of plug-in fragrances or sprays, and utilize essential oil diffusers instead. They are relatively inexpensive and eco-friendly––not to mention less toxic for your home. Numerous combinations––even holiday blends like pumpkin spice and evergreen tree––can be achieved with essential oils.

by Rebekah Greer

Bathrooms

When it’s time to deep clean your toilet, simply pour ½ cup of baking soda and approximately 10 drops of tea tree essential oil (optional, but tea tree is known for its disinfectant properties) in the toilet bowl. Then, add ¼ cup of vinegar and scrub while it fizzes. Fill a spray bottle with a mixture of ¼ cup vinegar and four cups warm water. Use a dry cloth or newspaper to wipe down your bathroom mirrors and windows. Clean your drains with a ½ cup baking soda, followed by one cup vinegar. Allow this concoction to fizz inside the drain for about 15 minutes then rinse with hot or boiling water. For particularly clogged or dirty drains, you can repeat or leave overnight.

s we approach this time of year when family gathers together for meals and quality time, we often pay attention to ingredients on our table, but do we consider the ingredients in other items throughout our homes? Just think about the cleaners and fragrances under your kitchen or bathroom counter. Have you picked up a bottle of cleaner and read what’s inside? Usually there are a long list of ingredients, some of which could be harmful to your family’s health. However, the good news is that you might have other items in your pantry which can clean just as effectively––but much more naturally!

Around the Home Make a homemade dusting spray using ¾ cup olive oil, ¼ cup distilled white vinegar and 30–40 drops of clove, orange, lemon or other citrus essential oil (optional). Combine these ingredients in a spray bottle and shake thoroughly before each use. You can utilize this concoction as you would a regular dusting spray around your home, spraying directly onto furniture then buffing with a clean and dry cloth. For a natural wood furniture polish, combine ½ cup of coconut or vegetable oil with ¼ cup of lemon juice then, using a small amount on a rag, polish and buff your wood furniture. To add a more refreshing scent, add lemon or orange essential oil to the mixture. Dryer sheets can contain harmful chemical and fragrances, so opt for wool dryer balls instead. You can even add a few drops of your favorite essential oil (lavender is ideal for sheets and bedding) to each ball for an aromatic, soothing and natural fragrance.

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Kitchen If you’re looking to sanitize a cutting board, grab half of a lemon, rub the citrus across the entire board then rinse after about 10 minutes. These natural acids eliminate bacteria, while making the board––and––kitchen smell lemon-y fresh. For an all-purpose natural kitchen cleaner, combine one cup distilled white vinegar, one cup water, three drops tea tree oil and three drops grapefruit essential oil in a 16-ounce spray bottle. Apply this mixture on countertops, sinks or appliances just as you would a traditional cleaner. Shake thoroughly before each use.

Easier Than You Think Make your home more natural and non-toxic requires less effort or expense that you might think. You can even start by simply switching out items in one room of the house or replacing one product with a natural alternative. If the DIY route isn’t for you, there are several options on the market for natural home cleaners and fragrances. Just look at the ingredients label and make sure that you recognize everything on the list. Start with the basics and over time, all the ingredients in your cleaners could be as natural as the ingredients in your pantry! Rebekah Greer is the owner-operator of Top Drawer Furniture and Sleep Organics in Sarasota. Both are certified Green Businesses, and Top Drawer is a member of the Sustainable Furnishings Council. The Greer family are committed to offering natural, healthy and eco-friendly household options. For more information, visit Sleep-Organics.com or TopDrawerFurnitureStore.com

16 Tips to Thrive During Cold & Flu Season Wellness & Self-Care Tips from the Four Pillars Staff

he joyful holiday season is upon us, but unfortunately so is that notorious cold and flu season. Sniffles, coughs and other symptoms can hinder the excitement and enjoyment of the holidays. So, we’ve rounded up these simple steps to help both you and your family’s immune systems remain strong and healthy this time of year. This list is compiled from a range of wellness providers including expertise from acupuncture physicians, massage therapists, yoga instructors, Reiki practitioners, esthetician and other related fields. • Manage your stress because putting the body into “fight or flight” mode weakens the immune system. • Take a hot bath with Epsom salts after spending time in a public area including airports or shopping malls. • Practice meditation with particular emphasis on deep, conscious breathing. • Experience the healing benefits of Pranayama through a gentle and restorative yoga flow. • Drink water consistently to flush out toxins in the body. • Consume enough Vitamin C which improves immune function and helps the skin glow too. • Make sure to get adequate amounts of sleep on a regular basis. • Try acupuncture treatments to support and strengthen immunity. Research shows this modality increases white blood cells in the body and moderates the immune system, allowing quick and strong reactions to potential illness. • Drink hot tea with local honey, lemon and cinnamon. • Apply “OnGuard” Essential Oils from doTerra onto the bottoms of your feet, then wash your hands thoroughly. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommend 20 full seconds of scrubbing. • Experience a Thai poultice herbal treatment for lymphatic drainage. • Drink hot water infused with a half lemon each morning on an empty stomach. • Treat yourself to a massage treatment which strengthens the immune system by increasing the activity level of white blood cells to combat viruses. • Undergo a Reiki session which can assist the body in restoring the balance needed to maintain energy systems in the body to repair itself and fight illness. • Elevate your good Chi levels with a nutritional intake

consisting of grains, vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds, beans, fish, fowl, meat and fruits. Choose foods and herbs that possess special Chi-fortifying properties. Finally, maintain a relaxed and positive mindset in all situations. A strong mind-body connection is vital to our overall health. Remember, a healthy mind and body equals a festive holiday season! In addition to workshops, Four Pillars offers massage and facials, Reiki, acupuncture, life coaching and a bookstore. Four Pillars is the community’s “go-to” place for learning, relaxing, energizing, and reinventing. For Pillars is located at 8209 Nature’s Way, Suite 221, Lakewood Ranch. For more information and to schedule an appointment, call 941-373-3955 or visit FourPillarsFlorida. com.

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December 2016

A DV E RTO RI A L

Introducing Natural Awakenings’ Complete Topical Formula with CBD

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What Is CBD?

It works by binding to a network of receptors called CB2 found throughout the body, which are activated either by the body’s naturally occurring endocannabinoids or by phytocannabinoids such as CBD.

psychoactive (no high; anti-anxiety) compound. CBD has a wide variety of therapeutic applications ranging from the relief and arrest of physical symptoms to the alleviation of mental ailments. Scientific and clinical studies indicate that CBD could be effective in easing symptoms of various difficult-to-control conditions, including: arthritis, epilepsy, seizures, headaches, inflammation, back pain, chronic pain, spasms, nausea, fibromyalgia, anxiety, depression, PTSD, stress and many others.

Our endocannabinoid system is found everywhere in our bodies, mostly linked to our immune and nervous systems, as well as our digestion and our brain. This system is critical to the regulation of many important physiological pathways in the human body

erived from the hemp plant in accordance with U.S. Food & D Drug Administration regulations and legal in all 50 states, CBD is Cannabidiol, a non-

How Does CBD-Infused Complete Topical Formula Work? This CBD-infused topical is absorbed through the skin to provide localized relief of pain, soreness and inflammation; the CBD is also circulated throughout the body by the endocannabinoid system to relieve and control a wide range of symptoms.

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What is the history? Poultice use is an ancient technique stemming from Thailand, Southeast Asia and India. It was historically used on soldiers to help draw out toxins from wounds.

What are the ingredients and their benefits? Most poultices use lemongrass to help regenerate connective tissue and stimulate lymphatic detox. Lime, camphor, tumeric and other native spices and herbs are often part of the mix.

Royal Thai Poultice Massage (90-minute and 120-minute treatments available) Therapeutic & Herbal Thai Poultice Treatments:

New Wellness Service from Four Pillars

by Four Pillars Staff

he Four Pillars spa team is always looking for the latest treatments and innovative methods of pampering our guests with self-care and natural healing modalities. We are dedicated to providing treatments that are rooted with ancient belief systems but suited for our modern world lifestyle. We are thrilled to now be offering two Thai poultice treatments.

What is a Thai poultice treatment?

Also known as “Samunprai” in Thai, translating into “warrior’s peace.” These exotic body treatments were applied to Siamese soldiers, dating as far back as the fourteenth century, to soothe muscle aches and pain. These treatments use organic Thai herbs in the form of a poultice which is steamed and applied to the body, combined with nurturing massage strokes and stretching. The body absorbs the heat and healing properties of the herbs within to nourish the tissues. Major benefits include: • • • •

Reduced joint and muscle pain Increased circulation and lymphatic flow Accelerated recovery from sports activities Detoxified and boosted immune system

Thai Facial Poultice Massage: Ta Suay (60-minute treatment)

What is a poultice?

This luxuriously sophisticated restorative facial and massage involves steamed organic Thai herbal poultices which lift, sculpt, tone and restore the delicate facial tissues. Incorporated with a traditional Thai facial massage, this is a profoundly simple yet powerful experience worthy of treating oneself with. Major benefits include:

A poultice is made of soft fabric (i.e. unbleached muslin, cotton or linen bags) which soothes the body when used during a treatment. It holds ingredients and oils beneficial to the muscles, organs and body. Poultices are warmed or steamed, then placed on your body with a gentle but firm massage technique of kneading and rocking over the body. The heat helps relax the muscles, while the potent herbs have therapeutic effects.

• Reduced puffiness and dark circles • Lifted, contoured and reduced fine lines • Smooth complexion, stimulate circulation to improve skin nutrition • Alleviated sinus congestion and detoxification • Hydrated skin and increased lymphatic flow • Enhanced muscle memory for a long-term youthful look

A Thai Poultice treatment involves the use of Thai stretching massage techniques and a warmed poultice filled with herbs and oils, tailored to your needs, in order to provide maximum benefit during the treatment.

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December 2016

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CROP Juice Keeps the Holiday Spirit Both Healthy & Bright by Mary-Elizabeth Schurrer

self-described “sugar addict” for the majority of her lifetime, Karen Odierna empathizes with that annual effort to abstain from the smorgasbord of holiday cravings. But now, whenever that impulse resurfaces, she knows which trump card will make her appetite for refined sugar disappear–– nutrients from leafy greens. And that revelation prompted Odierna to launch the first CROP Juice location in 2014. “One of the reasons behind opening CROP was the dramatic effect leafy green juice had on decreasing my sugar cravings. When you consume this

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type of juice, the body will receive the essential vitamins and minerals needed to feel healthier and more energized. Then over time, you’ll realize that you just don’t need to keep eating junk,” she clarifies. With that objective at the forefront, CROP Juice turns avoiding temptation into a delectable pursuit. In fact, this festive menu speaks for itself. Odierna expounds, “The ‘Great Pumpkin’ smoothie, our version of pumpkin pie, contains entirely organic ingredients like pumpkin puree, real pumpkin, almond milk, cashew butter,

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banana, dates, gluten-free oats and autumn spices. We also offer organic, raw, vegan and gluten-free pumpkin cheesecakes from Canopy Road Market. Our ‘Peppermint Patty’ and ‘Mint Chip’ smoothies are available too this month, just in time for the holidays.” “This organization specializes in genomic risk profiling, using plant-based nutrition and other wellness practices to modify an individual’s predisposition toward certain ailments. We look forward to teaming up with The Harlin Center in effort to focus on nutrition as the cornerstone of superior preventive healthcare,” continues Odierna. Given her enthusiasm for promoting wellness around the community, Odierna is also quick with advice on maintaining balance, vivacity and stamina throughout an often chaotic time of year. “Begin with a commitment every morning to incorporate one habit that benefits your well-being. Stay active, unwind your brain, nourish yourself and just breathe. “I understand how tempting holiday treats can appear, but until you change your mindset about food, you’ll most likely over-indulge then find yourself on a ‘diet’ after the holidays. At CROP, we advocate ‘make it a lifestyle, not a diet.’ Small but positive choices produce a major difference, and soon you won’t need every dessert on the table!” Well, I’m convinced. And although I can’t speak for everyone, this CROP Juice convert will be swapping the gingerbread and snickerdoodles for leafy green goodness––both during this season and year-round. CROP Juice currently operates three storefronts on the Suncoast. The first location is 2320 Gulf Gate Drive, Sarasota; the second is 8211 Tourist Center Drive, Bradenton; and the third is 1605 Main Street, Suite 108, Sarasota. For more information, visit CropJuiceSRQ.com. Mary-Elizabeth Schurrer is the Managing Editor of Natural Awakenings Sarasota– Manatee. She also works as a freelance writer, blogger and social media marketer based in Southwest Florida. Her personal blog HealthBeAHippie. Wordpress.com features practical tips for embracing an active, nutritious and empowered lifestyle.

Do You Suffer from Tension Headaches? Massage Therapy to the Rescue! by Nancy Tegan

assage therapists can tell you that one of the most popular spot to work on a client is under the back of the skull. This area correlates to a common source of human discomfort––the tension headache. The muscles under the back of the skull are called sub-occipitals (under the occipital ridge). Did you know that without these muscles, our heads would fall off? No wonder, since our heads weigh as much as bowling balls––we really are a bunch of fat heads! The sub-occipital muscles rock and tilt the head into extension, while stabilizing and controlling fine movement on both the atlas and axis. Good posture results when the head rests over the shoulders which places about 10-12 pounds of force on the neck. However, postures that force us to position our heads forward causes the muscles to work at 27 pounds of force. On average, most people spend two to four hours a day in this posture. No wonder we develop headaches! The numbers get larger the farther forward the neck bends. 30 degrees forward weighs 40 pounds, and 45 degrees forward increases the workload to 49 pounds. Finally, at a 60-degree forward bend, the neck muscles have to pull 60 pounds of force just to hold the head upright. That is definitely more weight than a bowling ball! The most effective way to prevent

this sort of headache is by sitting erect with your ears over the shoulders. When you catch yourself bending your neck forward, stand up, stretch and resume a healthy posture. Straining neck muscles aren’t the only cause of tension headaches. They can also stem from dehydration. A narrowing of blood vessels to regulate body fluid level makes it more difficult for oxygen and blood to reach the brain which results in a headache. In addition, our brain is located inside a fluid sack that bumps against the skull. If this fluid sack is depleted due to dehydration, the brain could push up against parts of the skull causing headaches. You probably know firsthand that knocking the noggin around hurts. Up to 80% of Americans suffer from headaches. But if you’re in this category, you don’t have to live in pain. Regular massage can greatly benefit you in the following ways: • Decrease tension in entire body • Reduce duration of tension headaches • Alleviate pain and intensity of tension headaches • Mitigate medication use for tension headaches • Manage depression related to tension headaches • Increase range of motion in neck and head If you are interested in scheduling an appointment in our massage student clinic or learning more about how massage can reduce tension headaches, East West College of Natural Medicine is now enrolling for their Massage Therapy Program (MM 32746). For more information, call 941-355-9080 or visit our location at 3808 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. Nancy Tegan, B.S., MAEd, LMT, NCBTMB, is Lead Instructor of the Massage Therapy Program.

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December 2016

Spreading Spirituality on the Suncoast:

Q&A with Pixie Dust Metaphysical Boutique by Mary-Elizabeth Schurrer

he philosophy of metaphysics probes the essence of being through an existential paradigm, “what is out there?” and “how does it relate?” Exploring these cosmic questions can spark profound spiritual introspection and enlightenment if you are amenable to the undertaking. This means enhancing the state of your physical wellness, affixing your consciousness on the present, recognizing your intrinsic connection to a universal force, and affirming that you deserve inner balance and harmony. While these intentions might seem elusive, there is a guiding light to support you along this journey––and it’s been a pillar in our community since 2012. Located amidst the vivacious, revitalized charm of downtown Sarasota, Pixie Dust Metaphysical Boutique offers a hodgepodge of inspiration for the spiritually-minded–– from crystals, incense, books and runes to chakra clearings, therapeutic massages, intuitive readings and energetic healing treatments. And that’s just skimming the surface! Last month, Pixie Dust celebrated its fourth anniversary here on the Suncoast, and in light of that recent milestone, I chatted with owner Johnna White on how the business originated, which course its trajectory has taken, and what the future holds for this metaphysical mainstay.

Natural Awakenings: How long has Pixie Dust been operating on the Suncoast, and which factors made you choose Sarasota as your location? Johnna White: We opened Pixie Dust in November 2012–– these four years have passed so quickly! When my husband and I began scouting locations in Florida, we immediately fell in love with Sarasota’s charm. It’s beautiful, vibrant and welcoming.

NA: How would you describe Pixie Dust’s progress, expansion and impact on the local community during its years in business? White: We originally opened at 1547 Main Street with less than 700 square-feet of space. Then, last year, we moved to our current location at 1476 Main Street, occupying 2400 square-feet. We’re now able to accommodate therapeutic massage, Reiki and other energy treatments. We’ve also added the Aura Soma Color Care System to our menu of products. In addition, upstairs we have a small meditation room for metaphysical workshops, semi-private yoga sessions and 62

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group sound immersion meditation which takes place each Saturday. We’re considered an inclusive, nonjudgmental environment where you can find items for all forms of spirituality––a place of both love and light for everyone, no matter their ideology, religion, race or preferences.

NA: Would you consider the Sarasota area receptive to this concept that different belief systems can co-exist within a broader spiritual scope? White: Sarasota is wonderfully open-minded toward the concepts of spirituality, metaphysics and conscious living! In fact, this community offers multiple resources to enlighten and benefit people on their spiritual paths.

NA: Have you experienced increased acceptance and support from the surrounding community over these past several years? White: Absolutely, and this has been a beautiful evolution. On a daily basis, we continue meeting new people who are just now discovering Pixie Dust. We’re wonderfully supported by our local customer base during the slow summertime as well.

NA: Will Pixie Dust be offering special holidaycentric events, incentives or festivities during the month of December? White: We are accepting donations to the All Faiths Food Bank this month, and those who donate will receive a special coupon to use throughout our store. Also, we’re partnering with Faces of Courage Cancer Camps to offer an in-store gift wrapping event as a fundraiser for the organization’s nonprofit camps in the Tampa area.

NA: Are plans currently in the works to further expand Pixie Dust or introduce new workshops and services throughout 2017? White: I do have a couple of exciting additions up my sleeve, but I’m not quite ready to unveil them. Not yet, anyway… Fair enough. We’ll just stay tuned as the New Year approaches! Pixie Dust Metaphysical Boutique is located at 1476 Main Street, Sarasota. The store hours are Monday–Friday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 941-366-6325, email Johnna@DustyPixie.com or visit DustyPixie.com. Mary-Elizabeth Schurrer is the Managing Editor of Natural Awakenings Sarasota–Manatee. She also works as a freelance writer, blogger and social media marketer based in Southwest Florida. Her personal blog HealthBeAHippie.Wordpress.com features practical tips for embracing an active, nutritious and empowered lifestyle.

Healing Plantar Fasciitis by Eric Winder, DC

lantar fasciitis is a foot condition which can cramp your entire lifestyle, making it difficult to exercise, take long walks, shop for groceries or even simple check the mailbox. Getting relief from this annoyance might seem out of reach, but with the right diagnostic approach and treatment, a sufferer can experience “happy feet” again in a short amount time. The key to relief is understanding what plantar fasciitis is and what causes the pain. The name “plantar fasciitis” has an “-itis” suffix which means “inflammation.” However, research shows that inflammation is not usually a major part of this problem. Instead, the plantar fascia, a strong band of connective tissue supporting the foot, suffers multiple micro-tears where the fascia attaches to the heel bone. These tears result from excess stress where it pulls on the bony attachment. What creates this stress? The human body is a complex mechanism, so in the case of plantar fasciitis, there is more than one cause–– too much stiffness in the foot, weak ankle muscles, and unstable joints in the foot or ankle.

Stiff, Weak or Loose The least common cause of plantar fasciitis is foot stiffness. Sometimes people with high arches get stiff joints in their feet because their arches don’t spring enough. Without the springiness of a flexible arch, stress occurs on the plantar fascia. For people with high arches, proper arch supports or orthotics are the most important treatment. In addition, therapies to mobilize and stretch the tight tissues of the foot are often helpful. Muscle weakness and joint instability are the most common causes of plantar fasciitis. Unstable joints (i.e. joints that move too much) are usually due to muscle imbalance that involves weakness of certain muscles, so these two problems are related. The question in both cases is, what makes the muscles weak? The most common cause is restriction in the fascia, or connective tissue, in the body. Improper shoes and a sedentary lifestyle are also factors for some people.

Faulty Fascia The plantar fascia is just one small portion of the body’s fascia network. Fascia is fibrous connective tissue that covers every muscle, bone and joint. Restrictions in muscle and joint fascia result from prior muscle strains, impact injuries, postural weakness, repetitive stress, local inflammation and other causes. Fascia holds the nerve endings that tell your brain where each body part is located, as well as how tight the muscles are. This information guides posture, joint alignment and

proper walking gait. Restrictions in fascia can confuse the signals from these nerve endings, resulting in uneven joint alignment, muscle imbalance and weakening of particular muscles. This can result in weak or collapsing arches which is common in plantar fasciitis. Where in the body can fascial restrictions affect the plantar fascia? Well, “the foot bone’s connected to the knee bone,” and so forth, so there are many points where fascial restriction can affect the ankle and foot. Restricted fascia in the low back, hip, thigh, knee, calf, ankle or foot can cause problems in the posture and motion of the ankle and foot. For example, fascia restriction from an old hamstring injury might trigger weakness in the gluteal muscles on one side, causing the pelvis to torque and the knee to twist slightly, stressing the ankle joint and weakening the ankle muscles which support the arch. This stress could be mild and not painful for years, but over time, can build to the point where the plantar fascia becomes so overstressed that pain is imminent.

Fixing the Fascia In my experience treating plantar fasciitis, each case is different. One patient might experience problems with fascial restriction in the lower back and weakness from an old ankle sprain. Another might be deconditioned from a sedentary lifestyle and have fascial restrictions in the hip muscles from sitting too frequently. And yet another might have scar tissue at the knee, causing ankle weakness made worse by wearing flip-flops all the time. However, although each patient is different, there is a pattern for successful relief: 1. Release restricted fascia wherever it might be affecting ankle and foot muscular strength and alignment. 2. Strengthen weak muscles that are needed for postural support. 3. Stretch overly tight tissues. 4. Wear properly supportive shoes and possibly arch supports or custom orthotics. 5. In stubborn cases, low-level therapeutic laser treatment can usually offer relief. Numbers three and four are often the main treatment most people receive for plantar fasciitis, but without the first two, treatment often falls short. Fascial restrictions are common, usually overlooked, and straightforward to treat by a properly trained practitioner. The muscles that need strengthened are different from person to person, but when properly exercised, make a significant difference. Put all the above parts of treatment together correctly, and you can typically achieve rapid, lasting relief for plantar fasciitis pain. Dr. Eric Winder has been practicing chiropractic for 19 years, with a focus on fascial treatment and soft tissue therapies for the past 16 years. Dr. Winder’s practice Gentlebay Chiropractic focuses on relieving pain and restoring alignment and motion through soft tissue therapies without forceful natural awakenings

December 2016

“half-full” or “half-empty.” Over the course of several thousand years, the Chinese have developed a deep understanding of how the spirit operates. They have found the spirit is connected to the physical body, and its characteristics are even tied to the body’s organ health. According to the Chinese, the spirit can be separated into five different aspects: Shen, Hun, Po, Yi and Zhi.

Shen –– “The Mind”

Cultivating the Shen, Energizing the Spirit by Rene Ng, DOM, AP, L.Ac.

ou’ve most likely heard the phrase “the eyes are the windows to the soul.” Well, in the Chinese culture, we have a similar expression––the Cantonese phrase “Ngarn Shen” which translates to “eye spirit”. This means the health of an individual’s spirit is reflected in their eyes. People in the Western world have also observed that when the eyes appear intense, listless, droopy, disinterested, scared or determined, that’s how the person feels inside. Our spirits play an important role in our lives, evoking fullness or emptiness, prosperity or deprivation. Total health encompasses three components––the mind, body and spirit. The Mind is the control center which tells our physical selves how to function. The body is the shell that holds together our soft tissues, muscles, tendons, ligaments, internal organ systems, skeletal system and other components that create our anatomical structure. But the drive behind how we live is associated with the spirit. If our spirits are weak, we will become listless, depressed, fatigued, introverted and unmotivated. However, if our spirits are strong, we will exhibit ambition, passion, gregariousness, courage, energy and a general zest for life. Therefore, the spirit is essential to your whether you view circumstances as 64

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In Five Element theory, the Shen is associated with the fire element and the heart organ system. It is tied to our consciousness, mental functions, mental health, vitality, thoughts and waking consciousness. The state of the Shen is visible in the eyes. Therefore, a healthy Shen produces bright, clear and shining eyes. The Shen resides within the heart where, at night, it rests along with the mind and body. Therefore, if a person thinks too much and cannot sleep, insomnia prevails. In this case, the eyes will reflect a fatigued and disturbed Shen, appearing listless and dull. This is often perceived in people with longterm emotional disturbances. In addition, manic behavior and panic attacks are frequently experienced by those with heart imbalances. Heart healthy foods like watermelon, bean sprouts and tofu can help relieve those symptoms. Lying motionless on on your back with the limbs spread out can also promote Qi circulation to calm the Shen. Individuals with mental disorders are deemed to be suffering from “Shen Jing Ben,” or “Shen Disturbance Sickness,” and are treated accordingly with Chinese herbal medicine and acupuncture.

Hun –– “The Ethereal Soul” Associated with the wood element in Chinese Five Element theory, the Hun is equivalent to the Western notion of “spirit.” It is not dependent upon a physical being for existence and continues after death. The wood element is connected to the liver organ system which governs emotions. Therefore, imbalances within the liver can impact the Hun, causing both short-term and long-term emotional problems. The Hun is responsible for relationships, love, kindness, empathy, compassion, tolerance, and awareness of suffering. The Hun also serves as a reservoir for ideas that infuse meaning into existence. Imbalances that affect the Hun can result in anger, frustration, resentment, unkindness and depression. The individual can also feel detached from everyday life. Bipolar tendencies might also surface. To rectify the Hun, liver health must be addressed. A major cause of liver impairment is stress, so de-stressing through exercise goes a long way toward healing the Hun. In addition, avoiding alcohol and sour or fatty foods can prevent the Liver from becoming imbalanced. Peppermint and chrysanthemum teas are also excellent for helping restore balance in the liver. Chinese Herbal Medicine like “Xiao Yao San,” when combined with acupuncture, is another effective means of returning the liver, and subsequently the Hun, to homeostasis.

Po –– “The Corporeal Soul” The Po is associated with the lungs and exists only during physical life. In Five Elements theory, it is associated with the metal element. The fact that humans possess sensory abilities connected to the Po. This allows an individual to respond––both physically and emotionally––to circumstances, take actions, and gauge justice. In Chinese Medicine, the lungs manage the immune system, and are tied to sadness and grief. These emotions can impair the lungs, therefore injuring the Po. This is why grieving people often experience breathing difficulties or shortness of breath. An individual with Po imbalance will likely show continuous signs of sadness such as sighing, forward slouched shoulders and listless eyes. The individual might also become prone to illness or allergies. When the lungs are strong and balanced, the Po is too, and the individual will feel lively. However, when the lungs are weak and imbalanced, the Po reflects this as well. The most effective means of strengthening the lungs is to breathe ample fresh air full of oxygen. The Chinese frequently visit parks early in the morning to take long walks, while breathing deeply and slowly. They call this “Shen Wun” which means “Spirit Exercising” in Cantonese. The lungs also detest cold and dryness, and avoiding ice cold drinks, spicy foods, smoking, and stale air can help prevent injured lungs. Foods that benefit the lungs include pears, strawberries, honey and loquat syrup. Cupping therapy, along with Chinese Herbal Medicine such as Dong Chong Xia Cao (Cordyceps) and acupuncture are also effective in addressing lung conditions, subsequently restoring the Po to balance and health.

Yi –– “The Intellect” In the Western world, a primary goal of the mother and father is to foster and develop the intelligence of their child. This is no different from in the Eastern world. However, the Chinese further subdivide this into “Yi Zhi” which needs to be developed. The “Yi” refers to the intellect, while the “Zhi” (which we will discuss later) refers to the will. The existence of the Yi allows an individual to reason, analyze and debate. The Yi also enables the existence of creativity and problem solving. The spleen organ system is connected to the Yi, and both are associated with the earth element in Five Elements theory. When the spleen is impaired, the individual cannot readily make decisions, causing pensiveness, worry and overthinking. The individual could also suffer from digestive problems. When the Yi is strong, the individual will exhibit a sense of confidence, intelligence, quick-thinking, creativity, action and decisiveness. The eyes will also appear sharp and energized. The spleen is also responsible for producing Qi, so when the Yi is impaired, the individual will also present with lethargy and fatigue, showing tendencies of procrastination and indecisiveness. Raw vegetables and cold-temperature foods are not healthy for the spleen and

should be minimized or even avoided. The spleen responds to warm, cooked foods––especially foods which are naturally sweet (not cooked with sugar). Raw ginger root and green tea, in particular, are ideal for strengthening the spleen and assisting with digestion. When the spleen is healthy, the Yi also becomes stronger, and the individual will react with intelligence, creativity and energy. Moxibustion, Chinese herbal formulas like “Gui Pi Wan” and acupuncture are effective in keeping the spleen balanced, therefore producing a thriving “Yi.”

Zhi –– “The Will” We have all encountered both strong-willed and weak-willed people. The will is connected to the Zhi and associated with the water element in Five Elements theory. In addition, the kidney organ system is essential to promoting healthy Zhi. An individual lacking in Zhi will exhibit fear and hesitancy to make decisions. They can become fearful of taking action and risks, being present and visible, and ultimately exerting willpower. In China, when a child experiences fear or decreased will-power, Chinese Medicine will tonify and balance the kidney organ system. This will lower the child’s inhibitions, resulting in more confidence, action and will-power. The kidneys also govern development, so an imbalanced kidney system will present with stunted bone growth, body development issues, back, knee, shoulder or foot pain, and spinal column concerns. The eyes will exhibit dark circles, and the body can become bloated, showing signs of edema. The kidneys can be strengthened by avoiding sitting or standing continually for an extended period of time. In addition, eating goji berries, almonds and seaweed have been shown to benefit the kidneys. An individual with imbalanced Zhi will lack courage, motivation, introversion and antisocial tendencies, often showing fear in their eyes. With Chinese Herbal Medicines like “You Gui Wan,” “Zuo Gui Wan,” moxibustion and acupuncture, the kidneys can be balanced and strengthened, consequently reconditioning the Zhi and boosting overall confidence.

Conclusion As you can see, the spirit is addressed differently in the East than here in the Western world. In order for the spirit to become strong and vital, an imbalance must be identified and addressed. Symptoms like depression, fear, lethargy, anger or irritability can help determine where these imbalances originate. Your boardcertified, licensed Acupuncture Physician can assist you with making those connections, then develop a treatment plan to move your spirit in the right direction. The result is an improved quality of life and brighter outlook on your circumstances. Rene Ng, AP, L.Ac., is a board-certified, licensed Acupuncture Physician and Chinese Herbalist in Sarasota. Depression, cancer care, multiple sclerosis, trauma, insomnia, thyroid issues and pain management are among the many health challenges helps patients with on a daily basis at his clinic near Sarasota Memorial Hospital. Ng is also a four-time winner of Sarasota’s “Favorite Acupuncture Physician” award. For more information, call 941-773-5156, email RNG@ChineseMedicalSolutions.com or visit ChineseMedicalSolutions.com. natural awakenings

December 2016

calendarofevents NOTE: All calendar events must be received via email by the 12th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Email publisher@nasrq.com for guidelines. No phone calls or faxes, please. Visit nasrq.com to submit online.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1 Yoga – 9am. With Pauline Dimitry, awakening the Heart-Body-Mind. All ages and experiences welcome. Accepting new students. $10. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-822-0263. Kayak Shell Creek – 9am-2pm. Your guide, Master Naturalist Rick Fried, lives on this pretty creek in Charlotte County, well worth visiting again and again. Participants must provide their own watercraft and be able to swim. Voluntary donations to the Sierra Club gratefully accepted. Reserve 941637-8805. Intuitive Healing – 11am-6pm. With Adam “Way” Wawrzyniak, an intuitive healer, Reiki master, minister of Universal Ministries with a healing modality strongly connected to his heart. Energy touch in contact with your internal multidimensional structure which directly affects physical body, emotions, mind balance, connection with inner child, heart opening, connection with your higher self, and adjustment to new multi-dimensional collective consciousness. Adam uses knowledge of sacred geometry and multi-dimensional holographic consciousness. $80. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com. Have You Had a Spiritual Experience? – 6:307:30pm. Have you had dreams of a departed loved one, an out-of-body or near-death experience, wonder about past lives? Learn more with like-minded people. Receive a CD with special techniques given as a gift to all attendees. Free. Jacaranda Library, Youth Activities Rm, 4143 Woodmere Park Blvd, Venice, 941-358-0325, Meetup.com/EckankarInSarasota. Mary Magdalene’s Mystical Teachings of Enlightenment – 7-8:30pm. Awakening to the Power of the Sacred Feminine with Rev Lea Chapin. Mary Magdalene brings forth her powerful, mystical teachings of enlightenment. She will awaken all to the power of the divine feminine energy that has emerged upon this planet at this time. These teachings are powerful, direct and life altering for the serious spiritual seeker who truly desires to help humanity and Mother Earth shift into the Golden Age of enlightenment. $25. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com. St Peter’s Message of Attunement – 7-8:30pm. Rev Thomas McQuade brings forth inspired messages from St Peter, awakening the Divine Self to bring clarity of thought and focus of awareness to Seekers of Light. His teachings of conscious thought will assist the Initiate to become more centered, to change his perception, and re-remember their true being and purpose! $25. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. Register 941-228-3703.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2 Living in Wholeness: The Call of the We – 10am5pm. Dec 2-4. Healing workshop combining self

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and world healing, connection, universal and Sufi mystical practices, meditation. $50-$75/day or $150-$250/3 days. Rising Tide International, 5102 Swift Rd, Sarasota. RisingTideInternational.org. Kirtan – 6-10pm. Enjoy a night of great music, love and bliss with Rick Franz, Cheryl Chaffee and Gershone & Flavia. Three bands for the price of one! $15/in advance; $20/door. Garden of the Heart Yoga, 2888 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota. 941341-9781. GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com. Chiropalooza, Annual Holiday Party – 6:30-9pm. Bring a Potluck item to share. Free drinks, fun, music. Come one, come all! Dower Chiropractic, 2226 Gulf Gate Dr, Sarasota. Sign-up 942-924-1227. Ganesh, The Remover of Obstacles – 7pm. Dr Raj Markos who will take you through a nine week mantra to the Hindu deity Ganesh leading up to new year’s day annual mantra for an auspicious new year of 2017. If you have obstacles to remove in your life, come join this powerful mantra prayer group for 9 consecutive Fridays and see miracles happen in your life. Love Offering. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com. Monthly Sarasota Singing Circle – 7-8:30pm. If you like Kirtan or Zikr, you’ll love this! Creative, fun, meditative singing facilitated by Stephanie Heidemann, Authentic Voicework. $10 donation. Prana Yoga Center, 3840 S Osprey Ave, Sarasota. Info, 941-225-1525, Stephanie@AuthenticVoicework.com, Facebook.com/ events/1799253430340976.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3 Nature Walk in Prairie Creek Preserve Scrub – 8:30-11am. Walk with Florida Master Naturalists, John Phillips and Jamie Reynolds, as we tour this protected area of scrub habitat. Informative, easy and safe. Voluntary donations to the Sierra Club are always gratefully accepted. Info 941-6397468. Ascended Master Saint Germain Meetings – 11:45am. First Saturday each month. The purpose is to increase our understanding of the Ascended Masters and add our light to Theirs to help our community and world during these challenging times. We are not alone. We can channel Their Help from Their Octave of Light. We will be using songs dedicated to the Masters, invocations of decrees, a healing circle, Ascended Master Teachings and meditation. Love Offering. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com. True Wand Magick – 9am-5pm. Book signing Friday night, 6-8pm. Day-long class presented by authors Amber K and Azrael Arynn K. Lunch included. Registration $75. Manatee Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 322 15th St W, Bradenton. Info 941-792-4741. Learn Food Healing Science – 10am-noon. Discover how you can reverse & prevent disease naturally with food! Enter the New Year with knowledge that can keep you and your family healthier

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than ever before. Space is very limited; RSVP today. $10. 830 Central Ave, Sarasota. 941-780-0501. Yoga Nidra Workshop – 1-3pm. Experience the bliss and rejuvenation of deep relaxation and guided meditation with Harmony Ananda. Let go of stress and negativity and enjoy peace and self-love. Garden of the Heart Yoga, 2888 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota. 941-341-9781. GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com. Sarasota Center of Light Spirit of the Season Concert – 7pm. Enjoy an inspiring and joyful evening of Christmas music performed by our choir and soloists in our beautiful and energized sanctuary. All are welcome. Love Donation. 852 S Tuttle Ave, Sarasota. 941-953-6620. SarasotaCenterOfLight. com. Reiki Share – 7-9pm. Are you a new student, advanced practitioner, seasoned Reiki master? Perhaps you want to know more about this ancient healing art. Everyone is welcome! $5. Angel Ministries, 2269 Tamiami Trl, Venice. Rev Patricia Charnley 941-492-4995. AngelMinistriesfl.org.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 4 Open Heart Divine Healing Service – 12:15pm. First Sunday each month. Through the gathering of the Faithful, experience and co-create the Anchoring of Powerful Divine Healing energies within the Sacred Circle. Expect Miracles! Rev Sharon Elizabeth James. Love Offering. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 5 Private Sessions with Saryon – Dec 5-13. Saryon’s readings are always inspiring, uplifting and help to shift layers of density that are ready to be released. As a channel, he can hear the messages of your Spiritual Guides and will endeavor to put you into a state of connection with them as you are healing through their wisdom and guidance. A session with Saryon is an opportunity to find clarity, direction and a deeper connection with Spirit. Book a private one-hour reading $150 ($20 off internet price). The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-3719333. Info, Saryon.com. Powerful Therapy to Health and Wholeness with Intuitive Biomagnetist – with Ralph Serrano, a registered nurse. His true healing power comes from his ability to communicate with Spirit Guides, in helping his people find their true illness and through the process of Biomagnetic Pair Therapy, a new revolutionary, scientific and therapeutic approach to help people heal. It is free of side effects, compatible with traditional or alternative practices. Other times are available. $100 for new clients and $75 for follow-up. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. Appointments, 941-371-9333, ccosl.com. Channeled Anchoring Light Meditation – 7:45pm. Serving the Ascension of our planet with the Ascended Realms as Anchors of Light, with Rev Sharon-Elizabeth James since July 16, 2007. Love Offering. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 6 Intuitive Healing – 11am-6pm. With Adam “Way”

Wawrzyniak, an intuitive healer, Reiki master, minister of Universal Ministries with a healing modality strongly connected to his heart. Energy touch in contact with your internal multi-dimensional structure which directly affects physical body, emotions, mind balance, connection with inner child, heart opening, connection with your higher self, and adjustment to new multi-dimensional collective consciousness. Adam uses knowledge of sacred geometry and multi-dimensional holographic consciousness. $80. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com. Awakening Your Throat Chakra – 6-7pm. Join us for this fun & informative workshop. This week we will discover the importance and unique ability of the Throat Chakra. We will learn the color, note, sound, element and location of this very important chakra. $10. Angel Ministries, 2269 Tamiami Trl, Venice. Rev Patricia Charnley 941-492-4995. AngelMinistriesfl.org. Connecting to Source Sessions – 7-9pm. Abdy has an ancient, indescribable gift which allows people to attune to the vibration they need to receive for themselves. “There is no name for what you receive.” Abdy. Bring a yoga mat or a blanket and a pillow, and dress comfortably to lie on the floor. If your body can’t lie comfortably, chairs available. Bring your own water bottle. $50. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333. Abdy. info. Book online AbdyIsBack.splashthat.com.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7 Experience John of God, Crystal Light Bed Sessions – 9am-6pm. Michele Denise, authorized by John of God, offers crystal light bed sessions and tours to visit John of God in Brazil. She has been traveling there for over 10 years and was told by him on her first tour to bring a crystal light bed back to the U.S. to help others. The crystal light bed aligns the chakras leaving the person emotionally, physically and spiritually balanced. Also available blessed John of God crystals and jewelry. $35/half hour, $65/hour. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. For appt, 828-423-1482 or email Michele@CrystalHealingBed.com. Activating the Crystalline Grid – 7-9pm. A powerful evening with Saryon, Dixie and their Crystal Alchemy Singing Bowls. Come hear the latest update on our planetary awakening. Learn about the Crystalline Ascension Grid of the New Earth. Experience the Earth’s Healing Currents through sacred sound. Join with a very high level of Angelic Energy that is working through this grid to awaken and unify humanity for Earth’s Ascension. These specially activated bowls carry the energy of all the spiritual portals they have been played in throughout the world and will bring us into a state of unity consciousness to open the prayer field. $20. Discounted package rates for Weds, Thurs, Fri/$50. All events + Sat Workshop/$165. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. Reservations, 941-371-9333, SaryonIsBack.splashthat.com. Keys of Enoch – 7-9pm. With Kim Converse, explore how The Keys of Enoch works directly with the spiritual truths of our past, present and future. Through music, sacred expressions, higher education and prayer, we will develop a deeper understanding of our cosmic birthright and our ability to co-participate with our spiritual counterparts con-

nected with the Divine. $7. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8 Yoga – 9am. With Pauline Dimitry. Awakening for the Heart-Body-Mind. All ages and experiences welcome. Accepting new students. $10. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. Call 941- 822-0263. Experience John of God, Crystal Light Bed Sessions – 9am-6pm. Michele Denise, authorized by John of God, offers crystal light bed sessions and tours to visit John of God in Brazil. She has been traveling there for over 10 years and was told by him on her first tour to bring a crystal light bed back to the U.S. to help others. The crystal light bed aligns the chakras leaving the person emotionally, physically and spiritually balanced. Also available blessed John of God crystals and jewelry. $35/half hour, $65/hour. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. For appt, 828-423-1482 or email Michele@CrystalHealingBed.com. Guest Reader, Deborah Chadwick – 10:30am5:30pm. Using a deck of regular playing cards, Deborah is able to communicate with her guides and angels, quickly receiving very specific information for her clients. Throughout her readings, Deborah brings forth humor and healing to aid her clients in achieving a higher level of understanding and focus. 15mins/$30; 30mins/$60; 45mins/$80. Elysian Fields, Midtown Plaza, 1273 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota. 941-361-3006, ElysianFieldsOnline.com. Intuitive Healing – 11am-6pm. With Adam “Way” Wawrzyniak, an intuitive healer, Reiki master, minister of Universal Ministries with a healing modality strongly connected to his heart. Energy touch in contact with your internal multi-dimensional structure which directly affects physical body, emotions, mind balance, connection with inner child, heart opening, connection with your higher self, and adjustment to new multi-dimensional collective consciousness. Adam uses knowledge of sacred geometry and multi-dimensional holographic consciousness. $80. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com Portals to Peace with Saryon – 7-9pm. Building on the energy of the previous evening, we will enact a sacred prayer to direct our healing intentions towards opening Portals to Peace. Step into your roles as conduits with us to channel the power of the One Heart. Dixie will play the bowls and the Angels and Masters will be chiming in to add their frequencies. After a space of sacred silence, we will hear messages through Saryon’s Channel. Come willing to be purified with a sound bath, and leave feeling touched by the spiritual presence of your guides. $20. Discounted package rates for Weds, Thurs, Fri/$50. All events + Sat Workshop/$165. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. Reservations, 941-3719333, SaryonIsBack.splashthat.com.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9 Guest Reader, Sherry Lord – 10:30am-5:30pm. Sherry is a Reiki Master, ordained reverend, teacher, psychic intuitive and deeper trance channel. She can see angels, guides and auras as well as channel loved ones who have crossed over. She is a versatile channel who can answer your questions, both

business and personal, and help you on your spiritual path. 15mins/$40; 30mins/$75; 60mins/$125. In Deep Trance Channel sessions, Sherry allows Namara, a group of non-physical beings of pure love & light, to speak through her, 50mins/$175. Elysian Fields, Midtown Plaza, 1273 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota. 941-361-3006, ElysianFieldsOnline.com. Todd Norian Therapeutics – 2:30-5pm. Healing sciatica and other hip, pelvis and lower back dysfunctions. Great for yoga teachers and students of all levels, especially those with hip or lower back pain. $50. Garden of the Heart Yoga, 2888 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota. 941-341-9781. GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com. Starflower Medicinal Apothecary Grand Opening and Christmas Party – 5-9pm. Come and celebrate the season and Starflower Spathecary’s five-year anniversary. Medicinal herbal education and yummy organic food and drink provided. Starflower Organic Spathecary, 415 S Pineapple Ave, Sarasota. Starflower.com. Guided Jin Shin Jyutsu – 6-7:15pm. Hands-on self-healing meditation with Michelle Giambra, Certified Practitioner. Be renewed as you are guided through hands-on energy balancing exercises you apply to your own body. Profound relaxation, pain relief and more. Register by 4pm, Dec 9. $18/class; $60/5 classes prepay. Cash or check. Suncoast JSJ, Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. Register, Michelle 941-228-2972, Michelle@Suncoastjsj.com. Suncoastjsj.com. Siddha Yoga Meditation Program – 6:30pm Newcomer Orientation. 7-8:30pm Meditation: A Mind Free from Thoughts. All are welcome. Free. The Siddha Yoga Meditation Center, Sarasota. Info, 941-926-5435, SiddhaYoga.org. Women’s Full Moon Meditation – 6:30pm doors open; 7pm doors close, meditation begins. Ordained in Thich Nhat Hanh’s order, Ruth Fishel: Buddhist Mindfulness Practice, uses mindfulness techniques to gently observe the activity of the mind. Through personal stories she summons experiences that resonate with the group. The Circle meets on the New and Full Moons for a guided meditation led by a senior member of the community. $10/ donation to Rising Tide for use of the center. 5102 Swift Rd. Info, Jo Mooy 941-3551414, JoMooy@gmail.com. Talking Stick Circle – 6:30-7:45pm. Join us biweekly for this new experience. When was the last time you felt heard? When was the last time you felt safe enough to give voice to something deep & truthful without fear of judgement or shame? $10. Angel Ministries College, 2269 Tamiami Trl, Venice. Rev Patricia Charnley 941-492-4995. AngelMinistriesfl.org. Ganesh, The Remover of Obstacles – 7pm. Dr Raj Markos who will take you through a nine week mantra to the Hindu deity Ganesh leading up to new year’s day annual mantra for an auspicious new year of 2017. If you have obstacles to remove in your life, come join this powerful mantra prayer group for 9 consecutive Fridays and see miracles happen in your life. Love Offering. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com. Entering The Violet Ray with Saryon – 7-9pm. Ascension teachings from the Masters, Angels, and Arcturians. Open your inner senses to the in-

natural awakenings

December 2016

visible world as Saryon’s presentation illuminates your connection to a wider multidimensional reality with clarity, humor and wisdom that transcends the ages. We are entering the Age of the Violet Ray and it’s time to reach a new understanding of our place in the unfolding plan for humanity’s awakening. Saryon will offer Q&A for part of this presentation. $20. Discounted package rates for Weds, Thurs, Fri/$50. All events + Sat Workshop/$165. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. Reservations, 941-3719333, SaryonIsBack.splashthat.com. Weekend Ashaya Yoga Workshop – Dec 9-11. Align your body and awaken your heart with this beautiful system of Hatha Yoga. Yogis of all levels are invited to learn from the founder of Ashaya Yoga, Todd Norian. Garden of the Heart Yoga, 2888 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota. 941-341-9781. GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10 Sampler Sessions: Jin Shin Jyutsu, Acupuncture, Massage – 8:30am-noon. Treat yourself to 20 minutes of relaxation, rejuvenation & relief for only $20! Advanced reservation suggested & walkins welcome. Rejuvenating Jin Shin Jyutsu (handson energy harmonizing) session with Michelle Giambra, LMT, Jin Shin Jyutsu Practitioner & Instructor, 941-228-2972. 5-Point Relaxation Acupuncture session with Angela Rauter, AP, DOM, LMT, 941-315-6858. Meditative Massage session with David Smowton, LMT, 941-780-0501. Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. 941-228-2972. Suncoastjsj.com. Breakthroughs in Channeling, Healing and Clearing with Violet Ray – 10am-5pm. If you have ever been interested in learning how to channel or work with the energies of The Violet Flame, the Violet Ray and the Ascended Masters and Angels, Saryon is an expert teacher. He and partner Dixie will facilitate the group with their special set of Activated Crystal Alchemy Singing Bowls that carry the energy of the Earth’s Portals, as well as the Masters and Angels that bless the bowls as healing instruments. Bring sack lunch or join us at the deli next door. $125. Discounted package rates for Weds, Thurs, Fri/$50. All events + Sat Workshop/$165. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. Reservations, 941-3719333, SaryonIsBack.splashthat.com. Community HU Chant – 11am-noon. Come experience for yourself, with others, how your days can be enhanced by chanting the word “HU” for 20 minutes from your heart to God. You can also do this on your own at any time. It is for everyone of any background or religious beliefs. Light refreshments follow. Free. Jacaranda Library, Youth Activities Rm, 4143 Woodmere Park Blvd, Venice, 941-358-0325, Meetup.com/EckankarInSarasota. ESP for Understanding Energy – 3:30-5:30pm. Learn to see and feel energy between you and others. Learn to do “off-body” healing. Learn about the chakras and how to implement them for yours and others’ benefit. On the spot Psychic Reading. $20. Angel Ministries College, 2269 Tamiami Trl, Venice. Rev Patricia Charnley 941-492-4995. AngelMinistriesfl.org. Viento Azul: Blue Wind Concert – 6pm Doors open. 7pm Concert. Chilean singer-songwriter and performer Loreto Lorca accompanied by Chilean guitarist Yayo Duran. $20 advance, $25/door. Rising Tide International, 5102 Swift Rd, Sarasota.

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

Tickets, 941-993-9994, Chris@RisingTideInternational.org, RisingTideInternational.org.

tiss Ave, Sarasota, 941-358-0325, Meetup.com/ EckankarInSarasota.

Spirit of Holidays Message Party – 7-9pm. Come celebrate the Spirit of the holidays with a warm welcome to all. At our fundraiser and holiday gala, all guests will receive heartwarming and validating information from a top psychic medium. Enjoy food and wine, and learn about upcoming news and events. Participate in the Gift Basket Raffle! $60. Unity Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd, Sarasota. 941-544-5874, Light@VictoriaAckerman.com, TheSpiritUniversity.com.

Free Dinner with Dr Dower – 6:30pm. Learn how exogenous ketones relate to the treatment of cancer, diabetes and heart disease. Beckham’s On the Trail, 8579 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, Reservations, 941-924-1227.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11 The Shift of Consciousness and Your Dormant DNA – 6-9pm. Learn about The Shift of Consciousness on Planet Earth, Ascension, The Awakening of Planet Earth, The Future of Humanity and your dormant DNA. Receive powerful and potent live transformational sacred energy healing and dormant DNA activations. This will be a powerful and potent evening full of consciousness expansion and live transformational energy healing based on your requests. By Donation. No one turned away. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941371-9333. 866-388-5115. Info LoriSpagna.com.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 12 Channeled Anchoring Light Meditation – 7:45pm. Serving the Ascension of our planet with the Ascended Realms as Anchors of Light, with Rev Sharon-Elizabeth James since July 16, 2007. Love Offering. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 13 Nature Walk at Prairie Shell Creek Preserve – 8:30-11am. Join Florida Master Naturalists Jim Knoy and Jamie Reynolds as they explore this uplands habitat while discussing the Florida Scrub Jay and the Gopher Tortoise. Reservations a must, 303-868-8337. Intuitive Healing – 11am-6pm. With Adam “Way” Wawrzyniak, an intuitive healer, Reiki master, minister of Universal Ministries with a healing modality strongly connected to his heart. Energy touch in contact with your internal multidimensional structure which directly affects physical body, emotions, mind balance, connection with inner child, heart opening, connection with your higher self, and adjustment to new multidimensional collective consciousness. Adam uses knowledge of sacred geometry and multi-dimensional holographic consciousness. $80. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com. Awakening Your Third Eye – 6-7pm. This week we will discover the importance and unique ability of the Third Eye Chakra. $10. Angel Ministries College, 2269 Tamiami Trl, Venice. Rev Patricia Charnley 941-492-4995. AngelMinistriesfl.org. Have You Had a Spiritual Experience? – 6-7pm. Come share and/or learn about spiritual experiences such as coincidences, guidance from departed ones or angels, dreams, past lives, soul travel. These topics come from the Spiritual Experiences Guidebook which will be given as a gift to attendees. Free. Gulf Gate Library, Conf Rm, 7112 Cur-

www.nasrq.com

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14 Paddle from Ponce De Leon Park – 10am-2pm. Explore mangrove tunnels and the shoreline of Charlotte Harbor with Florida Master Naturalist Helen Buonviri and Bill Schuyler. Facilities available. Participants required to wear a PFD. Bring your kayak/canoe (no inflatables), water, bug spray, lunch/snack. Donations to the Sierra club gratefully accepted. Reservations, Helen 941-4670974, Bill 941-763-9248. Special Love Offering Event – 7-9pm. Come spend an evening with Saryon and connect with spiritual keys and insights from the Angels, Arcturians and Ascended Masters. This is an opportunity to ask questions and receive personal guidance, as well as hear inspiring information about our evolutionary potential. Ask anything you want about the invisible realms, spiritual guidance, channeling, or history’s potentials. This should be an enlightening evening of spiritual exploration. Love Offering. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15 Yoga – 9am. With Pauline Dimitry, awakening the Heart-Body-Mind. All ages and experiences welcome. Accepting new students. $10. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-822-0263. Intuitive Healing – 11am-6pm. With Adam “Way” Wawrzyniak, an intuitive healer, Reiki master, minister of Universal Ministries with a healing modality strongly connected to his heart. Energy touch in contact with your internal multidimensional structure which directly affects physical body, emotions, mind balance, connection with inner child, heart opening, connection with your higher self, and adjustment to new multi-dimensional collective consciousness. Adam uses knowledge of sacred geometry and multi-dimensional holographic consciousness. $80. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com. Neuropathy and Pain Relief with Laser Therapy – 7-8pm. Understand the research on therapeutic laser and find out when and how it can help relieve pain. Presented by Dr Eric Winder. Free. Gentlebay Chiropractic, 3131 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota. RSVP 941-957-8390. GentleBay.com. Mary Magdalene’s Mystical Teachings of Enlightenment – 7-8:30pm. Awakening to the Power of the Sacred Feminine with Rev Lea Chapin. Mary Magdalene brings forth her powerful, mystical teachings of enlightenment. She will awaken all to the power of the divine feminine energy that has emerged upon this planet at this time. These teachings are powerful, direct and life altering for the serious spiritual seeker who truly desires to help humanity and Mother Earth shift into the Golden Age of enlightenment. $25. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com.

St Peter’s Message of Attunement – 7-8:30pm. Rev Thomas McQuade brings forth inspired messages from St Peter, awakening the Divine Self to bring clarity of thought and focus of awareness to Seekers of Light. His teachings of conscious thought will assist the Initiate to become more centered, to change his perception, and reremember their true being and purpose! $25. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. Register 941-228-3703.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16 Sacred Space Meditation – 6-7pm. Meditation is the key to spirit consciousness. Through its practice, you will discover who you truly are. You will uncover the subtle gifts of your Being, expand your consciousness and enhance your service to others. $5. Angel Ministries College, 2269 Tamiami Trl, Venice. Rev Patricia Charnley 941492-4995. AngelMinistriesfl.org. Ganesh, The Remover of Obstacles – 7pm. Dr Raj Markos who will take you through a nine week mantra to the Hindu deity Ganesh leading up to new year’s day annual mantra for an auspicious new year of 2017. If you have obstacles to remove in your life, come join this powerful mantra prayer group for 9 consecutive Fridays and see miracles happen in your life. Love Offering. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 17 Intuitive Faire with Readings – 11am-4pm. A monthly event with Intuitive and Mediumistic Readings, Spirit Artist, Palmistry, Astrology and Numerology Reports, Aura Pictures and Biofeedback. Something for everyone. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. Call to schedule your favorite reader 941-371-9333. Special Christmas Gift of Comedy and Spirit Messages – 7pm. Metaphysical Comedian Connie and internationally acclaimed Psychic Medium Martin Jordan will show you how they were able to turn the devastation of losing their son into celebration and build a new relationship with him on the other side, finding joy and laughter all along the way. They will create a bridge between the audience and their transitioned loved ones raising your vibration one laugh at a time. Love Offering. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com. Rumi: A Night of Poetry & Mystic Celebration –7:30pm. With Sufi Whirling. Love Donation. Rising Tide, 5102 Swift Rd, Sarasota. dHarps@ juno.com

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 18 Community HU Chant – 10-11am. Come experience for yourself, with others, how your days can be enhanced by chanting the word ‘HU’ from your heart to God for 20 minutes. You can also do this on your own at any time. It is for everyone of any background or religious beliefs. You are welcome to stay for light refreshments that follow and meet others who love to sing HU. Free, La Quinta Inn, 5931 Commercial Way (W of I-75), Sarasota, 941358-0325, Meetup.com/EckankarInSarasota.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 19 Nature Walk in Shell Creek Preserve– 8:3011am. Join Florida Master Naturalists John Phillips and Jamie Reynolds for an easy walk in pine flatwoods, scrub and hardwood hammock habitats. Voluntary donations to Sierra Club gratefully accepted. Info 941-6397468. Channeled Anchoring Light Meditation – 7:45pm. Serving the Ascension of our planet with the Ascended Realms as Anchors of Light, with Rev Sharon-Elizabeth James since July 16, 2007. Love Offering. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941371-9333, ccosl.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20 Intuitive Healing – 11am-6pm. With Adam “Way” Wawrzyniak, an intuitive healer, Reiki master, minister of Universal Ministries with a healing modality strongly connected to his heart. Energy touch in contact with your internal multi-dimensional structure which directly affects physical body, emotions, mind balance, connection with inner child, heart opening, connection with your higher self, and adjustment to new multi-dimensional collective consciousness. Adam uses knowledge of sacred geometry and multi-dimensional holographic consciousness. $80. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941371-9333, ccosl.com. Awakening Your Crown Chakra – 6-7pm. Join us for this fun & informative workshop. This week we will discover the importance and unique ability of the Crown Chakra. We will learn the color, note, sound, element and location of this very important chakra. $10. Angel Ministries College, 2269 Tamiami Trl, Venice. Rev Patricia Charnley 941492-4995. AngelMinistriesfl.org. Monthly Anchoring Light Channeled Meditation Charlotte County – 6:45pm. With Rev Sharon-Elizabeth James, serving the Ascension of our planet with the Ascended Realms as Anchors of Light every Monday since July 16, 2007! Port Charlotte Beach Park, Room A, Port Charlotte. Love Offering. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21 Hands-On Self-Healing Meditation – 1011:15am. Connect with the rejuvenating, harmonious flow of life energy in your body for deep relaxation, pain relief and more. Certified Jin Shin Jyutsu self-help instructor, Michelle Giambra, guides you in sequences of hand placements to revitalize energy centers on your body. Space is limited. Reserve your space by 9am, Dec 21. $18/ class or 5 classes for $60, prepay cash or check. Suncoast Jin Shin Jyutsu, Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. Register, Michelle 941-228-2972. Michelle@Suncoastjsj.com. Suncoastjsj.com. Full Moon Winter Solstice at South Lido Beach State Park – 4:30pm. Ceremonial drumming, singing and meditation with international teacher Patricia Walsh. On the longest night, candles will be lit to coincide with the setting sun and lanterns released into the sky. Men, women and well-behaved children welcome. Bring lawn chairs, blankets, battery candles and flashlights. Donation tax deductible; checks made payable to Mayor’s Feed the Hungry Program. Info, Jo Mooy 941-355-1414, JoMooy@gmail.com.

Winter Solstice Celebration – 6:30pm. Labyrinth Walk followed by special music and service honoring ancient traditions on the longest night of the year. Love offering. Unity of Sarasota, 3203 Proctor Rd. Info, 941-955-3301, UnityOfSarasota.org. The Celestial Cross: Winter Solstice & World Peace Summit XIII – 7pm. It is no wonder why cultures from all over the world revered these natural days of great power that impact weather patterns and all life on Earth. Observe, align and integrate activities around these events and find a restoration of peace, power and balance. In the Northern Hemisphere, the December solstice marks the longest night of the year. Take this opportunity to Hold the Vision Of Peace, co-creating the higher world vision of cooperation and collaboration that touches the hearts and minds of our world leaders and all humanity as we pave the way for the New Earth Template. Love Offering. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com. Keys of Enoch – 7-9pm. With Kim Converse, explore how The Keys of Enoch works directly with the spiritual truths of our past, present and future. Through music, sacred expressions, higher education and prayer, we will develop a deeper understanding of our cosmic birthright and our ability to co-participate with our spiritual counterparts connected with the Divine. $7. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com. Reiki III Master Share – 7-9pm. Masters of all lineages come together to share, expand, enhance and brush up on their Reiki. Wear comfortable clothes. $5 Suggested Donation. Enlightenment Center at Unity Church, 3023 Proctor Rd, Sarasota. Rev Zan Benham, 941-922-7839. Zan@WomanSpirit.com. Woman-Spirit.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22 Intuitive Healing – 11am-6pm. With Adam “Way” Wawrzyniak, an intuitive healer, Reiki master, minister of Universal Ministries with a healing modality strongly connected to his heart. Energy touch in contact with your internal multi-dimensional structure which directly affects physical body, emotions, mind balance, connection with inner child, heart opening, connection with your higher self, and adjustment to new multi-dimensional collective consciousness. Adam uses knowledge of sacred geometry and multi-dimensional holographic consciousness. $80. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23 Paddle Myrtle Slough – 9am-1pm. Trip is conducted by certified guide and Florida Master Naturalist, Jim Story. Depending on weather conditions the trip can proceed up Myrtle Slough to Lake Surprise and/or downstream to Shell Creek, navigating up to the 400-ft wide water fall at Punta Gorda reservoir. Kayak and PFD required. Limited to 12 people. Reserve early, 941-505-8904. Ganesh, Remover of Obstacles – 7pm. Dr Raj Markos will take you through a nine week mantra to the Hindu deity Ganesh leading up to New Year’s day annual mantra for an auspicious new year of 2017. If you have obstacles to remove in your life, come join this powerful mantra prayer group for 9 consecutive Fridays and see miracles happen in your life. Love Offering. The Cosmic

natural awakenings

December 2016

Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 24 Christmas Eve Candle Lighting Service – 6pm. Beautiful music and service honoring the rebirthing of the Living Christ Spirit. Love offering. Unity of Sarasota, 3203 Proctor Rd. Info, 941-9553301, UnityOfSarasota.org. Special Christmas Eve Candlelight Service – 8pm. Come and share your Light with others in celebration of Christmas, a time of remembering the Light that came to the world over 2000 years ago. A holy and beautiful candle Light service ending with Christmas Carols. Love Offering. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25 MERRY CHRISTMAS Eckankar Worship Service – 10-11am. Learn to Love Yourself. You are important because you exist and God loves you. Why not have a good opinion of yourself? La Quinta Inn, 5931 Commercial Way (W of I-75), Sarasota, 941-358-0325, Meetup. com/EckankarInSarasota. Christmas Restoratives – 1-3pm. Give yourself the best holiday gift ever this year; join Eva Saunders in celebrating the beauty of Restorative Yoga. Take time to replenish yourself this holiday season. $30. Garden of the Heart Yoga, 2888 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota. 941-341-9781. GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 26 Channeled Anchoring Light Meditation – 7:45pm. Serving the Ascension of our planet with the Ascended Realms as Anchors of Light, with Rev Sharon-Elizabeth James since July 16, 2007. Love Offering. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941371-9333, ccosl.com

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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 27 Intuitive Healing – 11am-6pm. With Adam “Way” Wawrzyniak, an intuitive healer, Reiki master, minister of Universal Ministries with a healing modality strongly connected to his heart. Energy touch in contact with your internal multidimensional structure which directly affects physical body, emotions, mind balance, connection with inner child, heart opening, connection with your higher self, and adjustment to new multidimensional collective consciousness. Adam uses knowledge of sacred geometry and multi-dimensional holographic consciousness. $80. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28 Paddle Shell Creek – 9am-2pm. This is one of the most scenic waterways in Charlotte County. Your guide, Florida Master Naturalist Rick Fried, intimately knows this creek because he lives on it. Must bring your own watercraft and be able to swim. Voluntary donations to the Sierra Club gratefully accepted. Reservations, 941-637-8805.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 29 Yoga – 9am. With Pauline Dimitry, awakening the Heart-Body-Mind. All ages and experiences welcome. Accepting new students. $10. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-822-0263. Guest Reader, Deborah Chadwick – 10:30am5:30pm. Using a deck of regular playing cards, Deborah is able to communicate with her guides and angels, quickly receiving very specific information for her clients. Throughout her readings, Deborah brings forth humor and healing to aid her clients in achieving a higher level of understanding and focus. 15mins/$30; 30mins/$60; 45mins/$80. Elysian Fields, Midtown Plaza, 1273 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota. 941-361-3006, ElysianFieldsOnline.com. Intuitive Healing – 11am-6pm. With Adam “Way” Wawrzyniak, an intuitive healer, Reiki master, minister of Universal Ministries with a healing modality strongly connected to his heart. Energy touch in contact with your internal multidimensional structure which directly affects physical body, emotions, mind balance, connection with inner child, heart opening, connection with your higher self, and adjustment to new multidimensional collective consciousness. Adam uses knowledge of sacred geometry and multi-dimensional holographic consciousness. $80. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 31 Burning Bowl Service – 7pm. A great first step in claiming a New Life by Divine Design. We release patterns which no longer serve us, embrace a new vision and claim it in our Letter to God. Love offering. Unity of Sarasota, 3203 Proctor Rd. Info, 941-955-3301, UnityOfSarasota.org. The Annual Anchoring Light New Year’s Eve Party and Meditation – 10pm. Bringing in 2017 in prayer and meditation with the highest celestial realms of light. Love Offering. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com.

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plan ahead SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2017 12:30pm. This Sunday: Burning Bowl and White Stone Ceremony for all participants. Each Sunday we bring forth an offering and an opening towards joyous Divine connection. An interfaith service. Donation. Rising Tide, 5102 Swift Rd, Sarasota. Rev Zan Benham, 941-922-7839. Zan@ Woman-Spirit.com. Woman-Spirit.com. New Year’s Romance on the Piano – 4pm. Celebrate New Year’s experiencing Romantic Classical Music played by the passionate, world-acclaimed concert virtuoso, Eleonora Lvov. Donation. Manatee Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 322 15th St W, Bradenton. 941-358-0235. PEleonoraLvov.com. Ganesh Ceremony and Mantra for the Removal of Obstacles – 7pm. We will start the New Year with a special ceremony and Mantra to Ganesh, the Hindu Elephant Deity, who removes obstacles in the lives of those who tune into this energy that has been established on Earth for thousands of years by his devotees across all generations. We will tap into this benevolent energy through his special Mantra. It will be the culmination of a 9-week Mantra class that has been building the energy for the grand finale on New Year’s Day. We will also have special Mudras to intensify this powerful energy, creating a happy and prosperous 2017. So many have given testimony of Ganesh’s special blessings in all areas of their lives. Love Offering. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 7 New Year’s Retreat with Aziza Scott – 9am-5pm. Jan 7-8. Meditation & Sufi Mysticism to sweep clean for 2017! $150 or $100/day. Rising Tide, 5102 Swift Rd, Sarasota. rtiSeminars@comcast. net. RisingTideInternational.org. Illuminations Yoga One-day Retreat with Vision Boards – Rediscover what you value and enjoy. $59. Faith Lutheran Church, 7750 Beneva. Reserve your space, 941-724-9922.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 13 Women’s Full Moon Meditation – 6:30pm doors open; 7pm doors close, meditation begins. Starting the 11th year for this circle, Patricia Cockerill, cofounder of the Women’s Meditation Circle, ushers in the New Year by opening to the divine feminine through love, joy and unity. The Circle meets on the New and Full Moons for a guided meditation led by a senior member of the community. $10/ donation to Rising Tide for use of the center. 5102 Swift Rd. Info, Jo Mooy 941-355-1414, JoMooy@ gmail.com.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 21 Dances of Universal Peace – 7:30-9pm. Song & dance to awaken the heart, clear the mind, and uplift the soul. Simple group dances and easy songs, mantras and chants to illuminate & awaken. Musicians welcome! Rising Tide, 5102 Swift Rd, Sarasota. Info Molten.Ink@gmail.com.

ongoingevents

Vesna, 7513 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota. YogaWithVesna.com.

NOTE: All calendar events must be received via email by the 10th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Email publisher@nasrq.com for guidelines and to submit entries. No phone calls or faxes, please.

Ashtanga Yoga with Liana Sheintal Bryant – 11:15am-12:45pm. A physically demanding practice synchronizing breath with movement through a set series of progressive postures to build strength, flexibility, and stamina. $14 or 5 for $50. Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. 941-952-5280, RosemaryCourt.com.

sunday Meet & Greet: Learn With Other Like-Minded Souls – 9-10am. Enrichment spiritual classes for adults. Free. Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd (between Beneva & Swift), Sarasota. 941-9553301, UnityOfSarasota.com. One from the Heart Healing Sessions – 9:3010:15am. Center of Spiritual Awareness healing practitioners offer 15-min sessions to bring a state of wholeness to body, mind, and spirit. Free. Fruitville Rd (Knights of Columbus Bldg), 941-926-7828. Sunday Services Cosmic Center – 10am Handson Spiritual Healing. 10:30am Open Arms Metaphysical Spiritualist Service: Inspirational lectures and messages from your loved ones and friends on “The Other Side”. Reverends Thomas & Mary Linn Clarke. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941371-9333. ccosl.com. Hatha Yoga with Jamie Coffey – 10-11:30am. A creative blend of yoga styles based on the teacher’s background. The class helps to build strength and increase flexibility. $14 or 5 for $50. Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. 941-9525280, RosemaryCourt.com. Sarasota Center of Light Sunday Morning Celebration Service – 10:30am. 852 S Tuttle Ave, Sarasota. 941-953-6620. SarasotaCenterOfLight.com. Sunday Worship Service – 10:30am. Start your week renewed and encouraged. Join the CMF for a morning of inspiration, spiritual healing, inspirational talk, special music and Spirit messages. Fellowship period follows the service. Center for Metaphysical Fellowship, 2044 Bispham Rd, Sarasota. 941-266-8435. cmfSarasota.org. FUNday at Unity of Sarasota – 10:30-11:30am. Spiritual Seekers, all are welcome to join us each Sunday for a wonderful, uplifting service. Free. Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd (between Beneva & Swift), Sarasota. 941-955-3301, UnityOfSarasota.com. Sunday AM Service – 10:30am-Noon. Join us for a free chair healing, singing, inspiring spiritual church messages and, after service, messages from Spirit with our psychic/mediums. Love Offering Welcome. Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice. Rev Patricia Charnley, 941-492-4995, revpat@ angelministriesfl.org, angelministriesfl.org. Universal New Thought Service – 11:30am12:30pm. There will be no service on December 25. Each Sunday bringing forth an offering and an opening towards joyous Divine connection. An interfaith service. Donation. Rising Tide, 5102 Swift Rd, Sarasota. Rev Zan Benham, 941-922-7839. Zan@Woman-Spirit.com. Woman-Spirit.com. Aerial Yoga – 11:30am-12:45pm. With Mandy. All levels. Begins with basic mat work & progresses to using a soft fabric yoga inversion swing. $15; $12/senior/student. 6260 N Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota. 941-359-9642. ReflexArts.com.

Cosmic In-Service Gathering of Lightworkers – 12:15pm. A call to Planetary World Servers to Anchor Light and work with our Family of Light to bridge Heaven and Earth. Rev Sharon-Elizabeth James. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdws, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-3719333, ccosl.com. Open Heart Divine Healing Service – 12:15pm. First Sunday monthly. Through the gathering of the faithful, experience and co-create the Anchoring of Powerful Divine Healing Energies within the Sacred Circle. Expect miracles! Rev SharonElizabeth James. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333. ccosl.com. Sunday PM Service – 6:30-8pm. Join us for a free chair healing, singing, inspiring spiritual church messages and, after service, messages from Spirit with our Psychic/Mediums. Love Offering Welcome. Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice. Rev Patricia Charnley, 941-492-4995, revpat@ angelministriesfl.org, angelministriesfl.org. Sarasota Center of Light Sunday Evening Celebration Service – 7pm. 852 S Tuttle Ave, Sarasota. 941-953-6620. SarasotaCenterOfLight.com. Reiki Masters and Dolphin Trilogy Classes and Healing – We practice holistic health where the art and science of healing merge. We provide alternative health care options that balance body, mind and spirit. Our specialists are highly trained in Biochemistry and Oriental Medicine. Now available Sundays and by appt. Call 941-343-7052 or visit HealedInSedona.com.

monday Max T3 Interval Workout – 7:30am. Join Dr Dower; for all levels of fitness. Get fit before the holidays. Free. Dower Chiropractic, 2226 Gulf Gate Dr, Sarasota. No Nonsense Nutrition – 9-10am. With Eve Prang Plews, LNC, IFMCP. WSLR 96FM, wslr.org. Hatha Yoga with Stephanie Cole – 9:30-11am. A creative blend of yoga styles based on the teacher’s background. The class helps to build strength and increase flexibility. $14 or 5 for $50. Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. 941-9525280, RosemaryCourt.com. Alternative Health – 10-11am. Alt Mondays. With Eve Prang Plews, LNC, IFMCP. WMNF 88SFM. Call-in line 813-239-9663, wmnf.org. Chair Yoga – 10-11am. Class is designed for individuals with restricted mobility or who have been inactive. $10. Unity of Sarasota, 3203 Proctor Rd. Info, 941-350-3301, UnityOfSarasota.org.

Mixed Levels Yoga – Noon-1pm. Mon & Wed. Kelly facilitates. Inspired by Anusara style of Hatha Yoga, which means “flowing with grace”. First class is only $5! Wild Ginger Apothecary in Gulf Gate, 6553 Superior Ave, Sarasota. 941-3125630. WildGingerApothecary.com. Introductory Reflexology Session – Noon5:30pm. One-hour session. $49. Heart and Sole Organics, 1435 S Osprey Ave, Ste 200, Sarasota. 941-228-9724. HeartAndSoleOrganics.com. Slow Flow Kripalu Yoga with Angelena Craig – 4-5:15pm. A gentle yet energetic approach to traditional yoga, suitable for beginners or the more advanced. First time student special $15/ first class, second one is free; $55/5 class packages. Circusoul Yoga Studio, 4141 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota. 941822-9620, ANewAgingMovement.com. Transitions Support Group – 5-6:30pm. A support group that helps cope with the reality of traumatic changes. Discover resources & chart strategies to achieve priority goals. Six sessions are recommended. Free. Transition Church, 2215 Sunset Dr, Ste E1, Bradenton. 941-739-7103. RevDCT@ Verizon.net. Feldenkrais with Bonnie K – 5:45pm. Ongoing Awareness Through Movement lessons. Improve posture, body/mind connection, self-reliance. $15. Ionie’s, 1241 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota. 941-3602248. FeldenkraisInSarasota.com. Spirit Automatic Writing – 6pm. Our spirit loved ones and guides are ever ready to help each of us. Colleen Panebianco will work with you to learn how to open up and enjoy this effective communication method with your spirit helpers. The technique comes so very naturally with just a little coaching. $10 donation. Center for Metaphysical Fellowship 2044 Bispham Rd, Sarasota. 941-2668435. cmfSarasota.org. Vinyasa Yoga with Jamie Coffey – 6:30-8pm. A vigorous style of yoga, which links breath and movement through a heat-building sequence. $14 or 5 for $50. Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. 941-952-5280. RosemaryCourt.com. Forgiveness Support Group – 7-8:30pm. Forgiveness in Aramaic is to cancel, untie or let loose. It’s a tool for changing a reality in the mind. This is one of the core messages of Why is this Happening to Me Again? $10. Unity Church of Sarasota. 941776-7465, UnityOfSarasota.com.

Meditation with Waxela Sananda – 11am-noon. Deepen your connection to the sacred source within. Love offering. Unity of Sarasota, 3203 Proctor Rd. Info, 941-955-3301, UnityOfSarasota.org.

Sai Maa Satsang & Blessing – 7-8:30pm. 1st Monday. A spiritual gathering, meditation & blessing to strengthen connection to self, truth & healing. Uses Sai Maa teachings & transformational healing. Free. Central Sarasota location. 941-4877077, Sai-Maa.com.

Gentle Yoga with Vesna – 11am & 3:30pm. Alignment-based, progressive levels, individual attention, small classes. $16 or $80/6. Yoga with

Monday Evening Channeled Anchoring Light Meditation – 7:45pm. With Rev Sharon-Elizabeth James, serving the Ascension of our planet with the

natural awakenings

December 2016

Ascended Realms as Anchors of Light every Monday since July 16, 2007! Love Offering. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl. com. Chakra Clearing & Alignment – Spiritual guidance from Rev Duffy Rutledge using the Crystal Bed from John of God. $25. Call for appointment. 941-926-7828. Florida Esthetics Buy One Get One 1/2 Off – By appointment only, purchase one / second 1/2 off. Sarasota & Bradenton locations. Call for appointment, 941-216-5772. FloridaEsthetics.com. Yoga Classes – Mon, Tues, Wed. A variety of styles. Ionie Body Mind Retreat/Raw Food Café, 1241 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota. Info 941-955-4599, Ionie.com.

tuesday Power Pilates Class – 8:30-9am. Strengthen your center in just 30 minutes. $5. Five Petal Holistic Healing Center, 830 Central Ave, Sarasota. 941315-6858. Five-Petal.com. Beach Fun and Fitness on Siesta Key Public Beach – 9am. Combining dance, martial arts and mindfulness, Nia tones your body while transforming your mind. More than just a workout, Nia is a holistic fitness practice and brings mindfulness to your dance movement experience leaving you energized, mentally clear, and emotionally balanced. It is non-impact, practiced barefoot, and adaptable to individual needs and abilities. Bring a towel. $15 or class card. 948 Beach Rd, Sarasota. Nia on the Beach with Kathy Oravec, 941-724-9719, KathyOravec@gmail.com, KathyOravec.com. WSLR Peace & Justice Show – 9-10am. Tune in to 96.5 on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Tuesdays of the month for The Peace and Justice Report. Submit any event announcements for the show to Info@wslr.org. Hatha Yoga with Stephanie Cole – 10-11:30am. A creative blend of yoga styles based on the teacher’s background. The class helps to build strength and increase flexibility. $14 or 5 for $50. Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. 941-9525280, RosemaryCourt.com. Kidding Around Yoga/Parenting Class – 10:30am-noon. Kids learn yoga with a certified instructor while parents interact. Love offering. Unity of Sarasota, 3203 Proctor Rd. Info, 941-3503301, UnityOfSarasota.org. Mindfulness in Parenting Drop-in – 10:4511:45am. Explore growth opportunities in parenting while building community support. Bring lunch if you would like to eat together afterwards. Donation. Sarasota Mindfulness Institute at Unity Church, 3023 Proctor Rd, Sarasota. Details, SarasotaMindfulness.org/calendar.html. Pilates – Noon-1pm. Tues & Thurs. Strengthen and lengthen with mat Pilates, facilitated by Kelly. First class is only $5! Wild Ginger Apothecary in Gulf Gate, 6553 Superior Ave, Sarasota. 941312-5630. WildGingerApothecary.com. Yin Yoga with Stephanie Cole – Noon-1:15pm. A passive yoga practice that stretches connective tissue in the body. This slower practice provides time to remain in the poses for longer periods, increas-

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

ing flexibility. $14 or 5 for $50. Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. 941-952-5280, RosemaryCourt.com. Mindful Meditation – 1-2pm. Guided contemplation. Love Offering. Fellowship Hall Education Annex Classrm, Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd. 941-955-3301. Iyengar Yoga with Deborah Di Carlo – 6:308pm. Iyengar Yoga is characterized by an emphasis on precision of alignment in the yoga postures, the use of props to help students of all ability levels achieve correct alignment, and an understanding of the therapeutic potential of yoga. $14, $50/5, Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota, 941-952-5280, RosemaryCourt.com. Zen Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Tues & Thurs. Led by spiritual director, Rev Daito Zenei Thompson. Consists of two 20-min meditations, separated by a 5-min walking meditation. Ends with tea & conversation. Free. Sarasota Zen Center, 3947 Clark Rd, Ste A, Sarasota. 941-451-6988. SarasotaZen.org. The Greater Charlotte Harbor Group of the Sierra Club – 7-9pm. 3rd Tuesday monthly. Open to the public, this is a wonderful opportunity for you to discover what your local Sierra Club is all about. Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Building, 1532 Forrest Nelson Blvd, Port Charlotte. Info, 941423-2713, AllainHale@hotmail.com. Second Tuesday Monthly Anchoring Light Channeled Meditation Charlotte County –7:45pm. With Rev Sharon-Elizabeth James. Serving the Ascension of our planet with the Ascended Realms as Anchors of Light every Monday since July 16, 2007! Love Offering. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com.

wednesday Nia – 9-10am Weds & Fri. Nia is a blend of the dance, martial, and healing arts. Becky facilitates. First class is only $5! Wild Ginger Apothecary in Gulf Gate, 6553 Superior Ave, Sarasota. 941-312-5630. WildGingerApothecary.com. Sacred Conversations – 10-11am. Dynamic study on living one’s Spiritual Power. Rev Elizabeth Thompson. Love offering $5-10. Unity of Sarasota, 3203 Proctor Rd. Info, 941-350-3301, UnityOfSarasota.org. Hands-On Self-Healing Meditation – 1011:15am. Connect with the rejuvenating, harmonious flow of life energy in your body for deep relaxation, pain relief and more. Certified Jin Shin Jyutsu Self-Help Instructor, Michelle Giambra, guides you in sequences of hand placements to revitalize energy centers on your own body. Space is limited. Please preregister. $18/class or 5 classes for $60 (prepay). Cash or check. Suncoast Jin Shin Jyutsu, Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. Contact Michelle Giambra, 941-228-2972, Michelle@SuncoastJSJ.com, SuncoastJSJ.com. Five Points Park Farmers Market – 10am-2pm. Omega Cure bottles, vials, cookies and chocolates available. Stop by, say hi, and try a sample. First St & N Pineapple Ave, Sarasota, Omega3Innovations.com. Feldenkrais with Bonnie K – 10:45am. Awareness Through Movement classes improve posture,

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balance, and body awareness. Lessons (in chairs/ on floor) are designed to quiet non-working habitual patterns, invite you into a process for learning and offer experiences for more efficient movement. $15. Ionie’s, 1241 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota. 941-360-2248. FeldenkraisInSarasota.com. Vinyasa Yoga with Stephanie Cole – 11:30am1pm. A vigorous style of yoga, which links breath and movement through a heat-building sequence. $14 or 5 for $50. Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. 941-952-5280, RosemaryCourt.com. Free Healing Clinic – 4-6:30pm. Our Masters tap into the Divine Source of energy to balance and heal your being. Relax and enjoy this renewing and enlightening experience. Love Donation Appreciated. Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice. Rev Patricia Charnley, 941-492-4995, revpat@ angelministriesfl.org, angelministriesfl.org. Drop-in Qigong – 5:30-6:30pm. $12 per single class or $10 per class when purchase a one-month pass. Sarasota Mindfulness Institute at Unitarian Universalist Church, 3975 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota. Details, SarasotaMindfulness.org/calendar.html. Drop-in Sitting Meditation – 6-7pm. Instruction & discussion of reading. Donation. Sarasota Mindfulness Institute, at Unitarian Universalist Church, 3975 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota. Details, SarasotaMindfulness.org/calendar.html. Hatha Flow – 6-7pm. Learn to connect with the breath, make space and be present through Yoga. Jen facilitates. First class is only $5! Wild Ginger Apothecary in Gulf Gate, 6553 Superior Ave, Sarasota. 941-312-5630. WildGingerApothecary.com. Intro to Hoop Dance Class – 6-7pm. Learn the basics of the art of Hoop Dance in this 4-week series that begins each month. Have fun, dance, meet new friends and burn calories. $40/month series. Prana Yoga Studio, 3840 S Osprey Ave, Sarasota. Bonnie Brown 941-404-8114. OutwardSpiral.net. Kundalini Yoga with Erinn Earth – 6-7pm. Outdoor class for fresh air intake. Lots of breathing while stretching. Techniques for kundalini manipulation for subtle body transformation. Meditation indoors at end of class. Lesson from Sutras or Gita. $10; $40/5, Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd, Sarasota, 941-284-9563, InSelfYoga.net. Pregnancy Yoga – 6-7:15pm. Experience the benefits of pregnancy yoga for improved posture, strength, flexibility, endurance, breathing & relaxation. Appropriate for all levels. $15; $50/5. Prana Yoga, 3840 S Osprey Ave, Sarasota. 941-312-1898. Max T3 Interval Workout – 6:30pm. Join Dr Dower; for all levels of fitness. Get fit before the holidays. Free. Dower Chiropractic, 2226 Gulf Gate Dr, Sarasota. Sarasota Essential Oils Presents 8-Week Series – 6:30-8pm. Exciting, fun, informative classes on green, clean, chemical-free living. Topics include: Using and Enjoying Everyday Oils; Essential Oils for Pet & Animal Care; Green Chemical-Free Home; Maintaining Healthy Weight; Vitality Oils in the Kitchen; Oil-Infused Natural Supplements; Stress/ Emotional Upheaval; Living Green and Earning Green. Join the Green Living Challenge where you earn Green Points to win prizes. We’re creating a safe and healthy environment for people, pets, plants and planet. Come to any or all classes in this series. 2700 Orchid Oaks Dr (1 block north

of Bee Ridge off Tuttle Ave). $5/class or $25/ Three-for-Free with advance registration. Info and Registration, 941-203-1225, Facebook, SarasotaEssentialOils.com. Sarasota Center of Light Wednesday Candlelight Healing Service - 7pm. 852 S Tuttle Ave, Sarasota. 941-953-6620. SarasotaCenterOfLight.com. Prayer & Meditation Service – 7-8pm. A midweek relaxing respite which includes Affirmative Prayer, Music and Silence. Love offering. Unity of Sarasota, 3203 Proctor Rd. Info, 941-955-3301, UnityOfSarasota.org. Hope & Support Group for Bereaved Parents & Family – 7-9pm. 2nd Wednesday monthly. $5 Donation. Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd, Sarasota. Sandi Crea 814-449-7481. The Keys of Enoch Study Group – 7-9pm. 1st and 3rd Weds. Known also as The Book of Knowledge, this is the study of the “code-book” or blueprint for spiritual consciousness with the reality of Divine Intelligence. KeysOfEnoch.com. Written by Dr J J Hurtak. Facilitated by Kim Converse. $7. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com. Midweek-Renew – 7:20-8:30pm. Meditation, prayer, music, candle lighting & silence. Free. Sanctuary, Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd. 941-955-3301.

thursday Beach Fun and Fitness on Siesta Key Public Beach – 9am. Combining dance, martial arts and mindfulness, Nia tones your body while transforming your mind. More than just a workout, Nia is a holistic fitness practice and brings mindfulness to your dance movement experience leaving you energized, mentally clear, and emotionally balanced. It is non-impact, practiced barefoot, and adaptable to individual needs and abilities. Bring a towel. $15 or class card. 948 Beach Rd, Sarasota. Nia on the Beach with Kathy Oravec, 941-724-9719, KathyOravec@gmail.com, KathyOravec.com. Yoga Every Thursday – 9am. Join Pauline Dimitry for classical Hatha Yoga Classes. For a Life in Balance-a gentle, transforming practice. All ages and experience levels. $10. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com. Englewood Farmers Market – 9am-2pm. Omega Cure bottles, vials, cookies and chocolates available. Stop by, say hi, and try a sample. Historic Dearborn St, Sarasota, Omega3Innovations.com. Mom + Baby Yoga with Liana Sheintal Bryant – 10-10:45am. This class offers benefits for moms and their babies. Designed for babies 6 weeks to 3 years but all are welcome. $14 or 5 for $50. Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. 941952-5280, RosemaryCourt.com.

workout. $16 or $80/6. Yoga with Vesna, 7513 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota. YogaWithVesna.com. Ashtanga Yoga with Liana Sheintal Bryant – 11:15am-12:30pm. A physically demanding practice synchronizing breath with movement through a set series of progressive postures to build strength, flexibility and stamina. $14 or 5/$50. Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. 941-9525280, RosemaryCourt.com. Healing & Messages – 6:30-8pm. Join us for a free chair healing, singing, inspiring spiritual messages with our Psychic/Mediums. Love Offering Welcome. Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice. Rev Patricia Charnley, 941-492-4995, revpat@angelministriesfl.org, angelministriesfl. org. Interactive Meditation – 6:30-7:30pm. Qigong & breathwork for personal and spiritual development. 830 Central Ave, Sarasota. RSVP 941-780-0501. Pet Grief Support Group – 7pm. 3rd Thursday. For understanding, support & sharing pictures & stories of your special friend. Love offering. Unity of Sarasota. 941-955-3301. Advanced Mediumship Development – 7-8:30pm. This training is for students who have learned about, and have connected with, their spirit guide or those in spirit, and who understand the basics on how to give an evidential mediumship reading. The purpose of the series is to educate and mentor participants into a higher level of psychic mediumship. With Victoria Ackerman, $15. The Spirit University, 373 Braden Ave, Sarasota. 941544-5874, Light@VictoriaAckerman.com, TheSpiritUniversity.com. Law of Attraction Class – 7-9pm. Last class for this session ends December 15. This class takes you to the leading edge, working with the Principles of the Laws of Cause/Effect or Sow/Reap. We are entering a study series of intention for living life as masterfully as we can, given our various quirks and preferences. $10. Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd, Sarasota. Rev Zan Benham, 941-922-7839. Zan@Woman-Spirit.com. Woman-Spirit.com. Suncoast Reiki Share – 7-9pm. 4th Thursday monthly. Open to all, no experience needed. Come experience and share the wonderful gift of Reiki energy. This is also an open invitation to all Reiki practitioners to receive as well as share your healing gifts. Hornberger Wellness & Chiropractic Bldg, 2nd flr, 4001 Swift Rd, Sarasota. Info, 941539-0346. Meetup.com/Suncoast-Reiki-ShareMeetup.

friday Max T3 Interval Workout – 7:30am. Join Dr Dower; for all levels of fitness. Get fit before the holidays. Free. Dower Chiropractic, 2226 Gulf Gate Dr, Sarasota.

Drop-in Qigong – 10-11am. $12 per single class or $10 per class when purchase a one-month pass. Sarasota Mindfulness Institute at Unitarian Universalist Church, 3975 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota. Details, SarasotaMindfulness.org/calendar.html.

Kundalini Yoga with Dev Atma – 8:30-9:45am. Classes includes gentle warm ups, a yoga set of postures, movements, breathing techniques, and relaxation, followed by meditation utilizing mantra, breath, and often times the healing vibration of the Gong. $14; $50/5. Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. 941-952-5280. RosemaryCourt.com.

Gentle Dynamic Yoga – 11am. Alignment-based, progressive stretching & flows, ideal for a gentler

Downtown Bradenton Farmers’ Market – 9am2pm. Each Sat, the market features a special activ-

classifieds Fee for classifieds is $1 per word per month (20 word minimum). To place listing, submit online at nasrq.com. Or call 941-564-0885 ext. 306 for more information. Deadline is the 12th of the month.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES EARN EXTRA OR FULL TIME INCOME WHILE HELPING OTHERS. Strong support and resources. Contact Robert in Sarasota for more information: 518-860-6514 or ylrob@ me.com.

SERVICES HOUSECLEANING. Enjoy your free time and let us do what we do best: Housecleaning to your healthy satisfaction. Call Paula for a free estimate 941-320-4052.

ity including guest chefs, raffles, arts & crafts vendors & children’s activities. Old Main St, Downtown parking/free on weekends. Dogs on leashes are welcome. 941-744-7484. Hatha Yoga with Stephanie Cole – 10-11:30am. A creative blend of yoga styles based on the teacher’s background. The class helps to build strength and increase flexibility. $14 or 5 for $50. Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. 941-9525280, RosemaryCourt.com. Book Study & Discussion – 10am-Noon. An ongoing book study group encouraging discussion & group interaction. $10. Unity of Sarasota. 941-9553301. UnityOfSarasota.com. Drop-in Sitting Meditation – Noon-1pm. Group, with instruction & discussion of reading. Donation. Sarasota Mindfulness Institute, at Unitarian Universalist Church, 3975 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota. Details, SarasotaMindfulness.org/calendar.html. Green Door Organics Co-op – 1-5:30pm. Every Friday of the month. Premium organics, affordable prices, no cross-contamination. Four locations, 941-378-9036 or OrganicVeggies.net. Private Readings Walk-in – 6-7:30pm. End your work week on a pleasant note, and with helpful guidance from your spirit guides and angels! Come and receive a 15-minute message from a loved one or guide through one of our gifted workers. Stop anytime during 6-7:15pm on Fridays, no appointment needed. Two workers available so minimum wait time, if any. $20 donation. Center for Metaphysical Fellowship 2044 Bispham Rd, Sarasota. 941-266-8435. cmfSarasota.org. Florida Esthetics $5 Off – any Skincare Clinic Service at Sarasota location. By appointment only, 941-216-5772. FloridaEsthetics.com.

saturday Sarasota Farmers Market – 7am-1pm. Rain or

natural awakenings

December 2016

shine. The Sarasota Farmers Market, established in 1979, continues its tradition of serving the community with local produce, plants, prepared foods and artisans. They currently have a full market that includes 70 vendors and 5,000 sq ft of produce and plants. 1592 Main St from Lemon Ave to Selby Five Points Park, Downtown Sarasota. Central Sarasota Year-Round Farmers Market – 8am-1pm, rain or shine. Every agriculture vendor at the market (fruits, vegetables, herbs, plants, etc.) is a grower or farmer, not just a reseller. The Florida House, 4454 S Beneva Rd, Sarasota. CentralSarasotaFamersMarket.com. Psychic Fair – 10am-3pm. 2nd & 3rd Sat. Are you searching, questioning and seeking answers? Choose from some of the best Intuitive Artists in the area. See what your future holds. Complimentary refreshments. Private Readings $1/Min. Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice. Rev Patricia Charnley, 941-492-4995, revpat@angelministriesfl.org, AngelMinistriesfl.org.

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@nasrq.com to request our media kit.

Board Certified Acupuncture Physician The Integrated Path, P.A. 3148 Southgate Ci, Sarasota 941-924-8833

The Integrated Path to Health and Wellness for the whole family utilizing Traditional Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture, Bio-Meridian Computerized Scanning, Bio-Cleanse Detoxification, Energetic Medicine, Clinical Nutrition.

DR. PAULA KOGER BSN.MA AP OMD

Kundalini Yoga with Erinn Earth – 10:3011:45am. Outdoor class for fresh air intake. Lots of breathing while stretching. Techniques for kundalini manipulation for subtle body transformation. Meditation indoors at end of class. Lesson from Sutras or Gita. $10; $40/5, Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd, Sarasota. 941-284-9563, InSelfYoga.net.

Combining integrative technology and techniques to bring you Dynamic results see www.wealthofhealthcenter.com Acupuncture, NES, Zyto, Homeopathy, Scalar

Silva Method (Level 1) – First Saturday each month. This 2-day workshop teaches specialized techniques. Covered topics include habit control, accelerated learning, intuition, healing. Angel Ministries, 2269 Tamiami Trl, Venice. Info, Tami Patzer, MA, CSMI, 941-421-6563. AngelMinistriesfl.org.

Home office in Sarasota, Florida call 941 539 4232 www.wealthofhealthcenter.com

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

Dr. Anne Luther has over 25 years experience in conventional medicine and alternative therapies such as acupuncture and homeopathy. “We treat your pet like our own!”

APOTHECARY

STARFLOWER ORGANIC SPATHECARY

415 Pineapple Ave., Sarasota, Fl 34236 941-554-4292 Starflower.com

Starflower, makers of organic skincare has expanded its store to include a fully decked Apothecary including biodynamic/organic bulk medicinal herbs, oriental longevity herbs and roots, new medicinal tinctures, organic clothing, terry robes, silk eye pillows and an array of holistic lifestyle accessories, gifts and cards. Visit our boutique and Spathecary Tuesday - Friday 10 am - 5 pm, Saturday- 11am - 4pm, and Sun & Mon – Closed.

AROMATHERAPY ACUPUNCTURE FACELIFT FACES BY DR ANNA

Anna L. Baker, D.O.M. Nationally Board Certified Acupuncture Physician 941-924-2723 FacesByDrAnna.com

Unique muscle-tightening acupuncture facelift and necklift done with 12 hair-thin needles, none of which are on the face. Results documented photographically. Only one maintenance treatment needed every 18 months. Free consultation includes facial analysis. Monthly seminars, call for schedule.

ANIMAL ACUPUNCTURE BALANCED VETERINARY CARE   Dr Pam McGinnis  8237 Cooper Creek Blvd  941-705-1161 • Balancedvetcarefl.com

Sleep Consultation – Find out how you could be sleeping better at night with a free, no obligation consultation. Top Drawer Furniture, 1955 Northgate Blvd, Sarasota. 941-877-1381. TopDrawerFurnitureStore.com.

Anne Luther, DVM 3646 Birky St., Sarasota 34232  941-954-4771 • SRQVet.com

CARYN L. YOUNG, DOM, AP, OTR

Go with the Flow Yoga – 10:30-11:30am. Flow and restorative, with a great playlist. Angie facilitates. All levels welcome. First class is only $5! Wild Ginger Apothecary in Gulf Gate, 6553 Superior Ave, Sarasota. 941-312-5630. WildGingerApothecary.com.

Ascended Master Saint Germain Meetings – 11:45am-1:15pm. First Saturday of each month. The purpose is to increase our understanding of the Ascended Masters and add our light to Theirs to help our community and world during these challenging times. We are not alone. We can channel Their Help from Their Octave of Light. We will be using songs dedicated to the Masters, invocations of decrees, a healing circle, Ascended Master Teachings and meditation. Love Offering. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, ccosl.com.

SARASOTA ANIMAL MEDICAL CENTER

ACUPUNCTURE/ CHINESE MEDICINE

Free Sleep Consultation at Sleep Organics – 10am-5pm or by appt. 650 Central Ave, Sarasota, 941-312-5906, Sleep-Organics.com.

Iyengar Yoga (Introductory Series) with Deborah Di Carlo – 11am-12:30pm. Iyengar Yoga is characterized by an emphasis on precision of alignment in the yoga postures, the use of props to help students of all ability levels achieve correct alignment, and an understanding of the therapeutic potential of yoga. $14, $80/8. Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. 941-952-5280, RosemaryCourt.com.

ANIMAL MEDICAL CENTER

www.nasrq.com

Providing acupuncture and a balance of eastern and western medicine. Offering laser, food and herbal therapies. Caring for the whole pet for over 20 years.

YOUNG LIVING ESSENTIAL OILS

Rob & Alina Rinato #1100150 813-644-9104 hello@yleosrq.com www.YLEOSRQ.com

Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils for diffusing, applying topically, and even ingestion! Ask us about our free local classes.

SARASOTA ESSENTIAL OILS Laurie Letzo #1356894 941-203-1225 EssentialOilsOfYL@gmail.com www.SarasotaEssentialOils.com

Create a home environment safe for people, pets and plants! Join us for on-going weekly classes on essential oils, chemical-free living, optimal wellness and even pet care! Visit our website for all the latest information, and learn how to earn points for prizes in the “Live Green / Earn Green Challenge.”

BEDDING

SLEEP ORGANICS

650 Central Ave, Suite 5, Sarasota (941) 312-5906 Sleep-Organics.com

Sarasota’s sleep specialists, featuring the west coast’s largest selection of natural and organic mattresses and bedding, all constructed with non-toxic materials such as organic cotton, wool, and latex.

BOOKSTORE/GIFT SHOPS

SRQDC

CHIROPRACTORS DOWER CHIROPRACTIC

Dr. William J Maecker 7725 Holiday Dr, Sarasota 941-518-2247 SRQDC.com

Dr. Patrick Dower 2226 Gulf Gate Dr., Sarasota 941-924-1227 drpatdower@yahoo.com

Improving health in Sarasota, one person at a time.

Come enjoy a complimentary dinner with your local wellness doctor. Have one on one time and learn how to live the 100 year lifestyle!

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY

FOUR PILLARS

San Marco Plaza 8209 Natures Way, Suite 221 Lakewood Ranch, FL (941) 373-3955 fourpillarsflorida.com

Four Pillars brings our community a positive and healthy place to learn, relax, energize and reinvent. With our facials, massage, life coaching, bookstore and workshops, there is something for everyone to balance their mind, body, spirit and social connections. We invite you to visit Four Pillars today to see what speaks to you. Now Open: Mon-Fri 9-7, Sat 10-5

ELYSIAN FIELDS

1273 Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 941-361-3006 ElysianFieldsOnline.com

Celebrating 25 wonderful years, this award-winning store for conscious livings offers a unique assortment of quality, hand-selected gifts: jewelry, crystals, books, greeting cards, clothing, candles, aromatherapy, incense, and more… Private intuitive readings offered daily by the most reputable readers in town. Engaging classes and events monthly. Open: Mon-Sat 10am – 6pm, Sun 12pm – 5pm.

COLON HYDROTHERAPY COLON THERAPY CLINIC

Alain Menard • Allaesia Menard 7733 Holiday Drive • Sarasota, Fl 34231 941-922-7744 ColonTherapyClinic.com

Cleansing for digestive disorders. Licensed 42 years. Developed gentle technique. Foot bath and ear candling.

ADVANCED CRANIOSACRAL WHOLE BODY THERAPY Terry Grywinksi, LMT MA6049 San Marco 205D, 1188 N Tamiami Tr, Sarasota • 941-755-3437 AdvancedCranioSacralHealing.com

CHIROPRACTORS GENTLEBAY SARASOTA CHIROPRACTIC

Residual Strain Therapy Eric Winder DC Offices in Sarasota and Venice, FL 941-957-8390 eric.winder.dc@gmail.com

Professional care with a personal focus. Feel better through proper alignment, and get back to work and play! See our website for more information.

Gifted healer Terry Grywinski with 19 years experience and advanced craniosacral training provides rapid relief from injury, pain, and muscle restrictions. Great success with auto/ sports injury, sciatic, neck and back pain, TMJ, migraines.

IT JUST KEEPS GETTING BETTER! Natural Awakenings’ healthy living, healthy planet lifestyle app has a new look and more features.

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natural awakenings

December 2016

FLORIDA ESTHETICS

CRYSTALS THE CRYSTAL CAVE

1899B Fruitville Rd., Sarasota 941-346-6203 CrystalCave.me

Sellers of stones, crystals, mineral specimens, fossils, jewelry, books, gifts, etc. Susan has over 25 years experience working with crystals and stones .

Two locations to better Serve you! First time client Specials! 3643 Cortez Rd. W Suite 250, Bradenton 5602 Marquesas Cir Suite 107, Sarasota 941-216-5772 www.floridaesthetics.com By appointment

1273 Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 941-361-3006 ElysianFieldsOnline.com

HEART AND SOLE ORGANICS

Cindy Heard, LMT, LE, MA65765 Certified IIR Reflexologist 1435 S. Osprey Ave., Suite 200, Sarasota 941-228-9724 HeartandSoleOrganics.com

Offering therapeutic treatments in Reflexology, Massage and 100% Organic Facials. Introductory Reflexology session $59. Monthly Specials, visit heartandsoleorganics.com.

RAY BEHM DDS

127 N Garden Ave. Clearwater, FL SaveYourTeeth.com 727-446-6747

FACIALS/MASSAGE

FOUR PILLARS

San Marco Plaza 8209 Natures Way, Suite 221 Lakewood Ranch, FL (941) 373-3955 fourpillarsflorida.com

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

Enjoy the best of Asian health culture Care for feet - health control center 2312 Gulf Gate Dr, Sarasota 941-203-5289

Feeling exhausted and stressed? Enjoy the Finest authentic and professional care for your feet and body. Call 941203-5289 for an appointment. All major credit cards accepted

FURNITURE TOP DRAWER FURNITURE

DENTISTRY

Save your teeth with safe natural holistic dentistry. We offer general dental services such as cleanings, checkups and emergencies. Safe appropriate amalgam removal. Metal-free crowns, bridges and dentures.Non-surgical gum treatment. Holistic extractions.

FOOTBATH MASSAGE & SPA

ORIENTAL FOOT MASSAGE & SPA

Offering PRP Facials, Paramedical Facials, Manscaping, Body Treatments, Microcurrent Microneedle, Dermaplaning, and European Facials.

ELYSIAN FIELDS

FELDENKRAIS METHOD® FELDENKRAIS METHOD®

Children (ABM) and Adults Classes, Individual Lessons, Workshops Bonnie Kissam, MA, LMT, CE Provider 941-360-2248 www.FeldenkrasInSarasota.com

The Feldenkrais® Approach improves posture and creates more efficient ways of moving through ‘Movement with Attention’. Clients optimize their musical, athletic or everyday movements, and improve abilities after injury, illness and trauma. Available in Sarasota, St. Pete & Orlando. Call Bonnie at email Bonnie@FeldenkraisInSarasota.com or 941-360-2248.

FENG SHUI THE FENG SHUI CURE

Steve Kodad, CFSP, CFSRE

941-720-4480 • www.TheFengShuiCure.com

www.nasrq.com

Transform any environment into one that encourages success, good health, and great peace. Visit www.TheFengShuiCure.com for information on evaluations, seminars, and training in SW Florida.

1955 Northgate Blvd, Sarasota (941) 877-1381  TopDrawerFurnitureStore.com

Local, family owned and operated furniture store specializing in solid wood, reclaimed wood, and FSC certified furniture. Also featuring natural and organic mattresses and bedding. For Your Home + For Your Health.

GREEN LIVING SARASOTA ESSENTIAL OILS

Laurie Letzo #1356894 941-203-1225 EssentialOilsOfYL@gmail.com www.SarasotaEssentialOils.com

HYPNOTHERAPY

BETH A. SNYDER HYPNOSIS & MINDFUL COACHING Beth A. Snyder, CCHT 941-228-8020 bethsnyderhypnosis@gmail.com

Looking for a new and empowering way to create the positive change in your life you desire? Have you suffered enough, struggling with habits, sadness, anxious feelings or stress? Discover within you a new and happier way to be in the day to day. Hypnosis is a safe, simple and successful way to empower yourself. You are unique and deserve a compassionate customized approach to achieving your goals. I invite you to learn more, enjoy free resources, and schedule a complimentary compassionate consultation at bethsnyderhypnosis.com or call 941.228.8020. Feel better now!

EQUINE SUPPLEMENTS WELLPRIDE

727 Commerce Dr, Venice, FL 34242 866-840-4811 • Wellpride.com

Wellpride Omega-3 fish oil (EPADHA) for horses. Immune System • Respiratory Protection • Greater Endurance • Joint Flexibility • Better Fertility • Muscle Recovery • Hoof Integrity • Stomach Protection • Coat Sheen.

HOLISTIC HEALING CENTER

FIVE PETAL HOLISTIC HEALING CENTER Angela Rauter AP, DOM, LMT 830 Central Ave, Sarasota 941-315-6858

Acupuncture, ATMAT®, Massage, Pilates, Meditation, Herbs, Essences, Supplements, classes and events.

CROP JUICE BAR & CAFE

2320 Gulf Gate Drive, Sarasota and 4057 Cattlemen Rd, Sarasota (inside LA Fitness) (941) 923-8640 cropjuicesrq.com

At CROP, we hand craft our juices daily by using the highest ORGANIC JUICE BAR & CAFE quality organic vegetables, mix the appropriate amounts of organic fruits for a burst of flavor, and package our juice in glass to ensure the freshest, highest quality juice available anywhere. We invite you to try a CROP juice today and compare the ingredients on our label to any other juice on the market. You will then understand why we believe no other juice even comes close.

JULIA KING

My mission is to empower people to live their best lifehealth through healing methods, tapping, energy work, Rieki, Chakra Balancing, Vision boards, releasing fear, meditation new thought action plan and much more. Most sessions are conducted via Skype, at home sessions are available also. Certified Rieki Practitioner(CRP), Certified Kinesiology Practitioner(CKP) and Ordained Minister, Law of Attraction Educator.

JIN SHIN JYUTSU® SUNCOAST JIN SHIN JYUTSU

Michelle Giambra, Certified Practitioner at Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave 941-228-2972 SuncoastJSJ.com

Michelle shares this ancient, hands-on art of balancing life energy in the body with individuals addressing acute, chronic and serious health projects along with those interested in maintaining wellness. MA42460

Massage Therapy, Qigong, Reflexology David Smowton 830 Central Ave Sarasota, Rosemary Court 941-780-0501 Interactivemeditation.com

Nourish the soul. Find insight. Transcend stress & alleviate pain. A sacred space is here for you to receive professional mind and body therapy. By Appointment Only.

TONYA LAUGHLIN, LMT

MA39216 Sarasota Office & House Calls 970-389-4019 tonyalaughlin@yahoo.com

Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork, Craniosacral Therapy, Crystal Therapy. With over 20 years of education and experience in holistic living, the delicate dynamics of the human anatomy are understood and applied in your personalized session.

LYMPHATIC THERAPY SUNCOAST LYMPHEDEMA THERAPY CENTER

Center and Perfect Blend Acupuncture Diana Hebert, AP, DOM, RN, CLT 941-321-7171 dianahebertrn@gmail.com

Specializing in removing toxins naturally, promoting wellness and treating abnormal swelling due to lymphedema, trauma, surgery, or cancer with Manual Lymph Drainage.

INTUITIVE LIFE COACHING /SPEAKER 941-981-1313  Juliatking@gmail.com • Juliatking.com

INTERACTIVE MEDITATION

JUICE BAR

MINDFULNESS SARASOTA MINDFULNESS INSTITUTE

1530 Dolphin St, Studio 6, Burns Court, Sarasota SarasotaMindfulness.orPractice with

others in a class, meditation group, or workshop on the campus of the Unitarian Universalist Church, 3975 Fruitville BICH MAI MASSAGE NO MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED Rd. Mindfulness meditation has been shown to MA 0025928 Will meet or beat all competitor pricing. reduce anxiety and depression, help with relief of 1219 East Ave, Suite 202, Sarasota stress-related illnesses, and help sustain recovery New Client Special 941-724-9992 foreach people with addictions. Help Sarasota become 3 Massages for $100 (regular price $65-75) Customized massage to fit your needs. a healthier, happy place to live. All SMI programs Specializing inMassage sports massage. Avail• Customized to Fit Your Needs are secular (non-religious), and not-for-profit. able evenings &inweekends. New client • Specializing Sports Massage special forathletics $100. to alleviate pain • Works- 3 onmassages all levels of

MASSAGE THERAPY

Bich Mai Massage

NATURAL FOOD

and prevent injury • Medical Insurance Accepted

Licensed Massage Therapist MA 0025928

CAFE EVERGREEN

801 S Tamiami Trail, Nokomis, FL 941-724-9992 941-412-4334 • CafeEvergreen.net

1219 East Ave, Suite 202, Sarasota, FL 34239

FLORIDA ESTHETICS

Two locations to better Serve you! First time client Specials! 3643 Cortez Rd. W Suite 250, Bradenton 5602 Marquesas Cir Suite 107, Sarasota 941-216-5772 www.floridaesthetics.com By appointment

Offering PRP Facials, Paramedical Facials, Manscaping, Body Treatments, Microcurrent Microneedle, Dermaplaning, and European Facials.

Cafe Evergreen is a natural, organic restaurant. Our menu consists of many organic recipes designed to not only taste delicious, but also enhance your health. Open 7 days a week 11am-9pm.

NATURAL PET FOOD HOLISTIC FOR PETS

Valerie Clows 713 Honore Ave, Sarasota, 941-378-4367 5770 Ranch Lake Blvd, East Bradenton, 753-7297 • HolisticForPets.com

Specializing in Hypo-allergenic Foods, Frozen Natural Raw Foods, Herbal & Homeopathic Remedies, Detergent & Soap Free Shampoo, Natural Flee Preventatives Skin Care Products, Healthy treats, Toys and gifts.

natural awakenings

December 2016

NUTRITION

NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS

LICENSED NUTRITION COUNSELOR Eve Prang Plews, LIC NC333 Full Spectrum Health, Inc. 2106 Bispham Road Sarasota, FL 941-952-1200 • M-Fri 9-5, Sat10-2 FullSpectrumHealth.com

1882 Stickney Point Rd, Sarasota 941-929-0884 SpecialNutrition.net

HOLISTIC HEALTH CLINIC & STORE. Superior Supplements by Xymogen and more. Professional Grade Homeopathics by Newton. Essential Oils by Oil Lady and Wind River Organic Skin Care by Éminence.

JAN Coming Next Month

Affordable Complementary Care Featuring: Health & Wellness

SPECIAL NUTRITION DISCOUNT PRICES

A NATURAL PEST CONTROL, INC.

“Keeping Your Home Healthy & Pest Free” 941-926-1190 Contact@anaturalpestcontrol.com www.aNaturalPestControl.com

A Natural Pest Control Inc. proudly serving Sarasota and Manatee Counties since 1996.  We are committed to the well-being of your family, pets and environment. The pest experts you can rely on.

Offering the largest selection of all major supplement brands and natural products in the Sarasota area at discount prices. Special orders are our pleasure.

STARFLOWER ORGANIC SPATHECARY

415 Pineapple Ave., Sarasota, Fl 34236 941-554-4292 Starflower.com

Starflower Organic Spathecary offers an extensive line of superfoods and herbal medicinals with disease protocols. We offer a Holistic Wellness consultation for detoxification, which is a comprehensive multi-organ, total-body cleansing and natural detoxification program. It includes reducing toxin intake, enhancing toxin elimination, and using specific detoxification herbs and other supportive dietary supplements to strengthen and promote optimum function of the organs. Visit our boutique and Spathecary Tuesday - Friday 10 am - 5 pm, Saturday- 11am - 4pm, and Sun & Mon – Closed.

PET SUPPLIES HOLISTIC FOR PETS

Valerie Clows 5411 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota, 941-378-4367 5770 Ranch Lake Blvd. East Bradenton, 753-7297 HolisticForPets.com

PROFESSIONAL MATCHMAKING

SUNCOAST SINGLES

941-713-1000 christy@suncoastsingles.com

The matchmakers at Suncoast Singles have been helping people find meaningful relationships for over 20 years. Give them a call at (941)713-1000 for a FREE consultation.

PERSONAL CARE/ HOME PRODUCTS WILD GINGER APOTHECARY

6557 Superior Avenue (Gulf Gate Shopping Village) Sarasota, Fl 941-312-5630 wildgingerapothecary.com

Eco-friendly shop health + beauty. Strictly nontoxic natural, organic products. Apothecary, lounge and learn studio to shop, learn, and move. Open Tu-Fri 10-6 and Sat 10-4.

move

6557 SUPERIOR AVENUE • SARASOTA, FL • 34231 {IN GULF GATE SHOPPING VILLAGE}

PEST CONTROL

941.312.5630 • WILDGINGERAPOTHECARY.COM

GOOD NEWS PEST SOLUTIONS Dean Burnside, President Sarasota, Bradenton, Venice 941-371-1311 GoodNewsPestSolutions.com

Go Green Plus 3 • Pest Control, Termite Control • Rodent Proofing and Trapping • Bat and Bird Exclusion • Mosquito and Mole Suppression • Bed Bug Control • Residential and Commercial.

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

941-564-0885 78

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

PSYCHIC MEDIUM REVEREND LOIS CHENEY

928-300-2030 Sarasota-Psychic-Medium.com RevLois@gmail.com

Contacts Guides, Angels, Loved Ones, Past Lives. Cord Removal, Healing with Sound & Color. Chakra Balancing. Home or Office Clearing. Clinical Hypnosis for Habit Change. Psychic Parties!

RESTAURANT VEG & GRILL

2164 Gulf Gate Drive, Sarasota 941-312-6424 www.vegsrq.com

Veg & Grill offers Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. Vegetarian, vegan & gluten free menu available. Check out our website for sample of our menu- take out available.

BALANCED VETERINARY CARE

SHAMANIC PRACTICES

SPIRITUAL CENTERS

SPIRITUAL COUNSELOR, SHAMANIC AND REIKI PRACTICES

COSMIC CENTER OF SPIRITUAL LIGHT

Rev. Zan Benham, BSL, BS, CHT 941-922-7839

Spiritual counselor, shamanic practitioner, Reiki healing, breath, and energy work, hypnosis, soul retrieval, past life regression all to empower and help you move into the Divine flow of the joy and power within you.

5041 Ringwood Meadow, G2, Sarasota 941-371-9333 CosmicCenterOfSpiritualLight.com

Dr Pam McGinnis  8237 Cooper Creek Blvd  941-705-1161 • Balancedvetcarefl.com

Providing acupuncture and a balance of eastern and western medicine. Offering laser, food and herbal therapies. Caring for the whole pet for over 20 years.

Embracing the New Paradigms of our Awakening Consciousness. A place of Knowledge,Wisdom, Healing and Comfort. Please visit our website at CCOSL.com for more information.

YOGA

SKIN CARE

FLORIDA ESTHETICS

Two locations to better Serve you! First time client Specials! 3643 Cortez Rd. W Suite 250, Bradenton 5602 Marquesas Cir Suite 107, Sarasota 941-216-5772 www.floridaesthetics.com By appointment

Offering PRP Facials, Paramedical Facials, Manscaping, Body Treatments, Microcurrent Microneedle, Dermaplaning, and European Facials.

STARFLOWER ORGANIC SPATHECARY

415 Pineapple Ave., Sarasota, Fl 34236 941-554-4292 Starflower.com

Fresh, food-grade, organic skin care made in small batches, including medicinal – grade essential oils. We specialize in anti-aging for mature skin, rosacea, and acne. Visit our boutique and Spathecary Tuesday - Friday 10 am - 5 pm, Saturday11am - 4pm, and Sun & Mon – Closed.

SPA AND WELLNESS THE OM SHOPPE

4801 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 941-706-3257 www.theomshoppe.com, www.theomshoppeandspa.com

Unique and one of a kind gifts, products, and spa services. The luxury spa includes services such as Sound Wave AttunementTM, Crystal Alchemy Energy AttunementTM , and massages that incorporate the ancient healing sounds of singing bowls & crystal gridding. We offer an array of healthful and personally empowering products. Enjoy a visit to our showroom and discover the largest selection of crystal singing bowls in Florida. We invite you to stop in and mention code Natural10 to receive 10% off any single item.

ROSEMARY COURT YOGA

ECKANKAR

810 Central Ave, Sarasota 941-952-5280 RosemaryCourt.com

Explore Eckankar at eckankar.org, call 941-358-0325 or on Facebook: EckankarInSarasota

Eckankar gives practical ways for people to have real spiritual experiences—even the ultimate experience of God—in this very lifetime. You can Explore Eckankar at eckankar.org, call 941-358-0325 or on Facebook: EckankarInSarasota.

UNITY OF SARASOTA

Rosemary Court Yoga in downtown Sarasota offers all styles & levels of yoga classes including Beginner, Hatha, Pre & Postnatal, Iyengar, Restorative, Vinyasa, Power, Senior, Kundalini, Kripalu, and more. Come visit our welcoming and tranquil space.

GARDEN OF THE HEART YOGA

Rev. Elizabeth Thompson 3023 Proctor Rd, Sarasota 941-955-3301 UnityOfSarasota.com

2888 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota. Near Tuttle 941-341-9781 GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com

Unity is an extremely positive approach to life, seeking to accept the good in people and all of life. God is seen as having many attributes, but most important that God is LOVE.

TRAUMA RESOLUTION THERAPY LIFE SPECTRUM INSTITUTE

Juliet Mathison, MHT, NP, SK, CNC, LMT 770-465-6294 LifeSpectrumInstitute.com/privatesession

Accelerated relief from physical or emotional pain or trauma of any kind. Anxiety, phobia, PTSD, insomnia, injury, surgery, complex pain patterns. Satisfaction guaranteed. Expect results.

Alignment-based hatha yoga for all ages and abilities. Classes are taught progressively, building from one week to the next each month, so you can access more poses with ease, according you your level. Gentle Yoga, Meditation, Vinyasa, Mixed Levels, Kirtan, Restorative Yoga, Chair Yoga, Workshops, and Teacher Training. Open 7 days a week. Drop-ins welcome.

RADIANT SOUL YOGA & WELLNESS

3512 N. Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota 941-380-1206 Radiantsoulyogawellness.com

We offer various types of Yoga including Pilates, Gyrokenesis, Dance, Gong, as well as Meditation classes. In addition, we offer health & nutrition counseling, soulful art, private lessons, women’s workshops, and off-site adventures which offer new tools for good health. Come experience it all!

VETERINARIAN ANIMAL MEDICAL CENTER 3646 Birky Street, Sarasota 941-954-4771 SRQVet.com

Dr. Anne Luther has over 25 years experience in conventional medicine and alternative therapies such as acupuncture and homeopathy. “We treat your pet like our own!”

WILD GINGER APOTHECARY (STUDIO)

6553 Superior Avenue (Gulf Gate Shopping Village) Sarasota, Fl 941-312-5630 wildgingerlifestyle.com

Community shop for health + wellness offering Yoga, Pilates, Nia, Dance, and more. Classes and workshops for learn every age / skill level. First class with every teacher is only move $5! Special workshops offered 6557 SUPERIOR AVENUE • SARASOTA, FL • 34231 weekly. {IN GULF GATE SHOPPING VILLAGE}

941.312.5630 • WILDGINGERAPOTHECARY.COM

natural awakenings

December 2016

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE BACHELOR'S DEGREE

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 11.21.16

JANUARY 9 FALL 2017 CLASSES START WINTER CLASSES START

COURSES INCLUDE: – _ – – – –

Ayurvedic Medicine Nutrition and Aging The Herbal Medicine Chest Introduction to Chiropractic Traditional Chinese Medicine Herbology and Botany

Additional degree programs and online shifts are available SCAN HERE

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Sarasota/Manatee Edition

RECENT RECOGNITION

U.S. Green Building Council and Everglades University are weaving the principles of sustainability, green building, nutrition, and environmental consciousness into its undergraduate degree programs.

SARASOTA 866.907.2262 TAMPA 844.297.1715 www.nasrq.com