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Enlightened Parenting
Tips for Raising Confident and Loving Kids
A Recipe for Respecting Vying Views Healthy Kids Wild Waters on Vaccines
They Love to Cook Naturally Healthy Foods
Swimming Safely in Lakes and Oceans
Knowledge Empowers Personal Decisions
August 2015 | Englewood • North Port • Port Charlotte • Punta Gorda • Venice | PeaceRiverNA.com
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contact us Publisher Janet Lindsay Managing Editor Mary-Elizabeth Schurrer Contributing Writer Juliette Jones Calendar Editor Cheryl Hynes Design & Production Susan McCann Web Development Stephen Warne Social Media Manager Stephen Warne To contact Natural Awakenings Peace River Edition: 941-564-0885 publisher@nasrq.com © 2015 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.
ugust is upon us, and the first thing that comes to my mind is that summer is almost over. The kids will soon be heading back to school. As such, this issue has many articles focusing on children’s needs, as well as tips to make us better parents. Check out our “Enlightened Parenting” article for ideas on how to teach young children values without over-parenting throughout their early years. If your children are older, I recommend reading “10 Steps to Family Happiness.” It offers helpful skills we can all incorporate into our daily lives. A favorite article of mine in this issue is “Kid Chef.” If your children are picky eaters (I know I was!), take a look at the article for tips on overcoming this issue with classes for tiny chefs. It is a positive and fun way to engage your children in trying different healthy foods that they can even make themselves. There are also some tasty recipes included for both you and the kids to try at home. I also suggest checking out the “Green Arts” article, as crafts have always been a great hobby of mine. There are so many options available, from non-toxic paints to recycled fibers for knitting. I am amazed at the softness of the yarns available, and they are still eco-friendly. Whether you’re young or old, crafts are a fun, relaxing way to spend your time and an ideal option for wholesome family fun! Enjoy your summer,
Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.
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newsbriefs healthbriefs globalbriefs ecotip healingways
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.
12 ENLIGHTENED PARENTING
healthykids
Tips for Raising Confident and Loving Kids
community spotlight
16 THE VACCINE PUSH
22 fitbody 20 naturalpet 23 inspiration 24 greenliving 26 consciouseating 28 calendar 31 resourceguide
by Meredith Montgomery
Mandatory Laws vs. Personal Choice by Linda Sechrist
18 HELIX HAIR DESIGN Can Help You By-Pass Artificial Beauty this Summer by Mary-Elizabeth Schurrer
19 THINK BEFORE YOU INK How to Make Body Art Safe and Reversible
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They Have Lots to Say If We’d Only Listen
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20 ANIMAL TALK by Sandra Murphy
22 SWIMMING IN NATURE by Lane Vail
CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS
Tips for Finding Safe Eco-Supplies
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Splashing Safely in Lakes and Oceans
Email articles, news items and ideas to: Publisher@nasrq.com. Deadline for editorial: the 10th of the month.
Email Calendar Events to: calendar@nasrq.com. Deadline for calendar: the 12th of the month.
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24 GREEN ARTS by Avery Mack
23 SPEAKING WITH STRANGERS
The Simple Pleasures of Connecting
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by Violet Decker
26 KID COOKERY
They Love Healthy Food They Make Themselves by Judith Fertig
natural awakenings
August 2015
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newsbriefs
Affinity Dog Behavior New Transport Van Improves and Training Comes to Englewood Expands Animal Rescue racey Schowalter, one of T the Southeast’s top dog Coalition Services trainers and behavior special-
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n the fall of 2014, Animal Rescue Coalition (ARC) opened a state-of-the-art, 38,000 square foot facility in Sarasota, just east of the Fruitville Library. ARC offers low-cost, highquality spay and neutering services for Sarasota, Manatee, DeSoto and Charlotte County residents. Now, to make services more accessible to pet owners who may not be able to bring their animals to the clinic, a Transport Program has been implemented with a shuttle van in service, giving ARC the ability to pick up animals, keep them overnight for post-procedure observation and deliver them to their owners the next morning. ARC conducted extensive research to identify areas in dire need of such services in order to combat staggering overpopulation and euthanasia rates. Therefore, this Transport Program is a tried-and-tested model of increasing the volume of procedures by offering transportation to pet owners residing in outlying areas where there are either limited or no low-cost spay and neuter services available. “We are so grateful to our supporters and donors who share our vision,” says Gisele Pintchuck, ARC Executive Director. “Spaying and neutering address the issue of overpopulation at its core. Now, we can serve the community in a much more efficient and comprehensive by making our services available to people who may not be able to bring their pets to us.” The generosity of the William G. and Marie Selby Foundation, the Harold C. and Jacqueline F. Bladel Foundation, ARC’s Board of Directors and private donors provided necessary resources to secure the clinic and purchase a new vehicle for the Transport Program. Volunteer partners in each community serve as liaisons between ARC and the residents. Partners can be a business, individual, rescue group or retailer – anyone who can offer space to serve as a central location for pick-up and delivery. Location: 6320 Tower Lane, Sarasota. Animal Rescue Coalition is a registered 501C3 organization whose mission is to save animals for the benefit of mankind. ARC depends on donations to offset operating, building and maintenance expenses and welcomes donations large and small. For more information, call 941-957-1955.
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ists, has relocated, bringing a new name and a fresh, lively take on training to Englewood. Affinity Dog Behavior and Training, LLC (formerly Puppy Adept, Inc.), now operates in most of Sarasota and Charlotte Counties. Affinity will provide a positive training outlet for local dog owners. “So many folks seem to have and deeply care for dogs here. I know they will be delighted with our proven, gentle and fun training methods,” says Schowalter who previously called Gainesville, Georgia, home. “I know it sounds backward, but we are known for treating our clients the same way we want them to train their dogs – with kindness, respect and no judgment.” Leslie Kupkowski of Dawsonville, Georgia, says, “We interviewed several trainers and visited their classes. We knew immediately when we met her that Tracey at Puppy Adept was the trainer for us. She and her methods are totally accessible for anyone, wanting a fun experience as they help their dog navigate the bewildering human world of rules and expectations.” It’s not just clients who have benefitted from Schowalter’s training methods. Scores of veterinarians have also taken advantage of her keen skills. Spring Day of Shannon Veterinary Services in Jefferson, Georgia, says, “Her patience and endless knowledge are very impressive. As an employee of a veterinary clinic, I was confident any time we referred a client her way for training needs.” In addition, Schowalter has been a guest on WDUN radio in Gainesville and has even appeared in articles for The Gainesville Times. Schowalter enjoys strong relationships with her peers as well. Jenny Schneider of Camp Canine USA in Cumming, Georgia, says, “Tracey Schowalter is one of the finest dog trainers and behavior counselors in the business. She is extremely knowledgeable and brings a warm, funny and caring style to her two- and four-legged clients. What’s more, she gets results! I love working and training with her. Englewood area dog lovers are so lucky that Tracey has chosen to make her home in their area.” Schowalter adds, “I hope to forge the same kind of professional relationships here in Sarasota and Charlotte counties” that she previously enjoyed with her clients in Georgia. Affinity Dog Behavior and Training, LLC is a dog behavior modification and training service, opening in Englewood during fall 2015. Previously known as Puppy Adept, Inc. of Gainesville, Georgia, this company was founded in 2000. For more information, call 941-888-4787 or email Info@AffinityDogTraining.net.
7th Annual Downtown Venice Craft Festival Returns in September
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he Downtown Venice Craft Festival returns September 5–6, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring 100 of the most skilled artists and crafters, both locally-based and from around the country. The eclectic displays of original handcrafted art, including decorative and functional pieces, as well as affordable gift items, will line Miami Avenue in Downtown Venice. Prices will be set to suit all budgets, ranging from $3 to $3,000. The participating crafters have been hand-selected from among hundreds of talented applicants, and each crafter will be on-site throughout the festival’s duration. The vast array of craft media includes folk art, pottery, personalized gifts, handmade clothing, basket weaving, beaded utensils, candles, cork assemblage, fabric design, fiber quilts, fused wax and glass, hair accessories, handbags and accessories, handmade cards, leather, mosaic, wood, painted wood, plaster craft and stained glass. In addition, a Green Market will offer exotic plants and orchids, body products, gourmet spices, jams, dips, spreads and much more. Admission is free and open to the public. This is just one of the many art events that festival producers American Craft Endeavors and Howard Alan Events bring to Downtown Venice which includes two fine art shows, the Venice Art Classic each March, the Downtown Venice Art Festival each November and a number of craft fairs throughout the season. These highly anticipated outdoor-juried festivals are popular for the quality artists and crafters they feature. A portion of the proceeds will benefit preserving and maintaining Venice Main Street as a desirable destination. Location: 220 Miami Ave W., Venice. American Craft Endeavors (ACE) produces some of the nation’s most exciting high-end juried craft shows in many of Florida’s vibrant downtown areas and popular tourist destinations including the Lauderdale by the Sea Craft Festival (Fort Lauderdale, FL), the Holiday Craft Festival on the Ocean (Jupiter/Juno Beach, FL), the Downtown Stuart Craft Fairs (Stuart, FL), the Siesta Fiesta Craft Festival (Sarasota, FL) and the Downtown Sarasota Craft Festivals (Sarasota, FL), among others. The group’s founders personally select unique, culture rich cities for their show locations providing a complete outdoor experience unmatched by other festivals. All crafters are hand-selected from hundreds of applicants in order to ensure a superior event featuring diverse art media and the highest quality of original handmade crafts. For more information, call 561-7466615, email Info@ArtFestival.com or visit ArtFestival.com.
Group Boot Camp Fitness at Nokomis Community Park
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he Nokomis Community Park offers Adventure Boot Camp for Women, a fun and challenging exercise program exclusively for females. Adventure Boot Camp includes fitness games, team efforts and challenges, as well as special theme days such as Pilates, boxing and martial arts. This exercise program is held on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, from 6 to 7 a.m. The park also offers Tabata Boot Camp, an eight-week revolutionary in small group training program that combines cutting edge HIIT exercise sand sound nutrition advice, along with a personal training feel. Tabata Boot Camp also includes daily sixminute home workouts and online support. This exercise program is held Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, from 7:15 to 8 p.m. Location: 234 Nippino Trail E, Nokomis. For more information, email Charfaz@ comcast.com, and for more information about Tabata Boot Camp, email TedsTabata@ gmail.com.
The Yoga Sanctuary Announces Annual Yoga Month Challenge
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eptember is National Yoga Month! During this time, as designated by the Department of Health and Human Services, festivities occur across the entire country. Hundreds of studios, teachers and students join in, and now you can too! Come celebrate with The Yoga Sanctuary and discover the transformational power of a consistent yoga practice. Take our Yoga Month Challenge – 20 classes in 30 days – and see the difference for yourself. In addition to regularly scheduled classes, The Yoga Sanctuary will be offering special classes throughout September, so you’ll have even more options to choose from. Also, because The Yoga Sanctuary believes in supporting our local community, while you’re getting stronger, more relaxed and less stressed, you’ll also be supporting the Peace River Wildlife Center (PRWC). Invite your friends and family to sponsor you for every class you attend, and all proceeds will go directly to the PRWC. During the entire month of September, The Yoga Sanctuary is offering the option to put your current package on-hold in order to purchase a monthly unlimited package for the member rate of only $89 (less than $4 per class). Location: 112 Sullivan St., Punta Gorda. For more information, call 941505-9642, email Info@TheYogaSanctuary.biz or visit TheYogaSanctuary. biz.
natural awakenings
August 2015
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healthbriefs
Call for Worldwide Protection from Wi-Fi Radiation
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n May, 190 scientists from 39 nations appealed to the World Health Organization (WHO) to “exert strong leadership in fostering the development of more protective EMF guidelines…” The letter was developed by a committee that included professors from Columbia University, Trent University, the University of Washington and the University of California, Berkeley. It was then signed by a host of university professors and researchers from around the world. The directive cited several key studies that have shown that radiation from electromagnetic fields—even low-frequency radiation—is a possible cause of cancer. The WHO adopted a classification for extremely low-frequency electromagnetic radiation in 2002 and in 2011 classified radiofrequency (RF) radiation within its Group 2B—a “possible human carcinogen.” The letter points out that while WHO has accepted these classifications, there have been no guidelines or standards created by the agency or in conjunction with other agencies. It recommends a convening of the United Nations Environmental Programme and the funding of an independent committee to explore practical means of regulating the widespread and uncontrolled expansion of wireless technologies throughout our environment. The appeal also calls for the protection specifically of children and pregnant women and a strengthening of regulations placed on technology manufacturers. Berkeley, California, set a precedent on May 12 by acknowledging the health risk posed by RF radiation and adopting the Right to Know Ordinance, requiring electronics retailers to warn customers about the potential health risks associated with it. It reads, “If you carry or use your phone in a pants or shirt pocket or tucked into a bra when the phone is on and connected to a wireless network, you may exceed the federal guidelines for exposure to RF radiation.” The ordinance requires that the notice be displayed in stores that sell mobile phones.
CONSTIPATED KIDS HELPED BY TUMMY MASSAGE
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esearch from the University of Washington has determined that chronic constipation in children may be relieved with abdominal massage. The research involved 25 parents and their children with learning needs and physical disabilities. The parents were trained by specialists in abdominal massage. Following the training, the parents massaged the abdomens of their children for 20 minutes per day. The study found that abdominal massage relieved constipation in 87.5 percent of the children and reduced laxative use. In addition, the therapy resulted in better diets for 41 percent of the children and improved the parent-child relationship in many cases.
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Glyphosate Self-Testing Now Available
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he Feed the World Project has partnered with the Organic Consumers Association (OCA) to offer public testing for a chemical that is now ubiquitous in conventional food production: glyphosate. At $119, the test can check levels of this chemical in tap water, urine and soon, breast milk. “For decades now, the public has been exposed, unknowingly and against their will, to glyphosate, despite mounting evidence that this key active ingredient in Monsanto’s Roundup herbicide is harmful to human health and the environment,” says OCA International Director Ronnie Cummins. “Monsanto has been given a free pass to expose the public to this dangerous chemical because individuals, until now, have been unable to go to their doctor’s office or local water-testing company to find out if the chemical has accumulated in their bodies or is present in their drinking water.” The testing comes on the heels of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) announcement in March that glyphosate is a possible carcinogen and questions the validity of the industry claims from laboratory animal testing that the acceptable daily intake of glyphosate is .3 milligrams per kilogram of body weight per day. The WHO report notes, “The socalled safe levels of glyphosate exposure have never been tested directly to determine if indeed they are really safe to consume over the long term. Instead, the ‘safe’ levels are extrapolated from higher doses tested in industry studies.” The test is available at FeedTheWorld. info/glyphosate-testing-test-yourself.
Pistachio Nuts Help Cholesterol, Blood Sugar and Artery Health
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new study published in the journal Nutrition found that eating pistachio nuts may improve cholesterol parameters, increase glycemic (blood sugar) control, decrease artery stiffness and improve overall blood vessel health. The study tested 60 adults with poor cholesterol lipid levels. They were randomly split into two groups—one (control) was given lifestyle modifications (LSM) while the other was given LSM and consumed 40 grams (about 1.5 ounces) of shelled pistachios per day for three months. Compared to the control group, the pistachio group’s levels of high-density lipoprotein (good cholesterol) increased significantly, while their low-density lipoprotein (bad cholesterol) levels went down significantly. Along with lower fasting blood sugar, the pistachio group showed better artery health, established by measuring vasodilation (the flexibility of the arteries to expand and contract). This, together with pulse-wave velocity testing, can indicate artery stiffness, which has been linked to hypertension and an increased risk of heart disease in general.
Produce Produces Heftier Newborns
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review of research from the Center for Chemical Regulation and Food Safety finds that the quantity of food consumed by pregnant women for increasing a baby’s birth weight is less important than what types of foods she eats. After systematically analyzing 11 relevant studies, the researchers found that higher birth weights—associated with better brain development during later years—are linked with the amount of fruits and vegetables a mother eats during pregnancy. Using seven studies, researchers found that low vegetable consumption during pregnancy resulted in more than three times the risk of giving birth to a child with low gestational weight. Other studies found a correlation between higher fruit consumption by expectant mothers and a higher birth weight of babies. Much of the research showing these relationships occurred in developed countries where a conventional Western diet is prevalent.
Sad Music Can Lift Our Mood
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study from Free University, in Berlin, has determined that listening to sad music may actually lift our mood. The researchers conducted a survey of 772 people, 44 percent of which were musicians, asking each subject about their emotional responses after listening to sad music. While 76 percent felt nostalgic, more than 57 percent of the respondents indicated peacefulness, more than 51 percent felt tenderness, almost 39 percent had feelings of wonder and 37 percent experienced a sense of transcendence. Fewer than half—45 percent—said they experienced sadness when listening to the morose melodies. The researchers pointed out that people often tend to listen to sad music as a source of consolation, and the music often provides a means for improving moods and emotions.
Happy Couples Sleep Closer Together
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esearchers from the UK’s University of Hertfordshire conducted a study that measured the relative relationship satisfaction between couples and their sleeping proximity. More than 1,000 people were surveyed for the study. The researchers found that 55 percent of couples that typically faced each other but did not touch while sleeping were satisfied with their relationship. Of those that slept back-to-back but didn’t touch, 74 percent were satisfied with their relationship and those that slept in the same direction, but didn’t touch, had a 76 percent satisfaction rate. Even better, 94 percent of those that touched while sleeping, regardless of their relative positions, reported being satisfied. The closer the couples slept, the happier their relationships were reported to be.
It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men. ~Frederick Douglass
natural awakenings
August 2015
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coverartist
globalbriefs News and resources to inspire concerned citizens to work together in building a healthier, stronger society that benefits all.
Air Raid
Carbon Dioxide Levels Go Through the Roof The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) notes that as of March, the global monthly average for carbon dioxide, the most prevalent heat-trapping gas, crossed a threshold of more than 400 parts per million (ppm), the highest in about 2 million years. “It’s both disturbing and daunting from the standpoint of how hard it is to slow this down,” says NOAA chief greenhouse gas scientist Pieter Tans. “Carbon dioxide isn’t just higher, it’s increasing at a record pace, 100 times faster than natural rises in the past.” In pre-human times, it took about 6,000 years for carbon dioxide to rise 80 ppm, versus 61 ppm in the last 35 years, Tans says. Global carbon dioxide is now 18 percent higher than it was in 1980, when NOAA first calculated a worldwide average.
Crayon Kicks
Not Just for Kids Any More
A Few of My Favorite Things Suzanne King “My journey into the art world has taken many turns along the way,” says fine artist Suzanne King. “What started as pure passion and the motivation to express myself eventually evolved into the desire to find more substance and purpose within my art.” King’s dynamic paintings, glowing with color and layered with texture, range from abstract works of spirituality to realistic portraits rendered in exacting detail. She draws creative inspiration from influences as diverse as Georgia O’Keeffe, whose brilliant perspectives she admires, and Mary Cassatt, for her skill in capturing scenes of intimacy that portray the essence of human nature. The Austin, Texas-based artist believes in giving back to her community, and she once painted a children’s mural for the Dripping Springs Library. “I also love doing portraits of people as gifts and expressing the overflow of my heart in prophetic art, painted live during church services,” says King. View the artist’s portfolio at FineArt America.com/profiles/suzanne-king.html and NewPerspectiveArt.com. 10
Peace River Edition
Secret Garden and Enchanted Forest, by Johanna Basford, are two of the most popular titles on sale at Amazon.com—and both are coloring books for adults. Featuring detailed black-and-white drawings of the flora and fauna that surround illustrator Basford’s Scottish home, Secret Garden has sold nearly 1.5 million copies. Fans include Hollywood celebrities such as Zooey Deschanel, and when National Public Radio asked listeners for feedback, many indicated, “I thought I was alone.” The consensus is that adults are seeking to get in touch with their inner child. Beyond the nostalgic charm of coloring books, it’s also a good way for grownups to unwind and reflect. “So many people have told me that they used to do secret coloring when their kids were in bed,” says Basford. “Now it is socially acceptable, it’s a category of its own.” For a sample coloring gallery, visit JohannaBasford.com.
Pistachio Power
The Nuttiest Biogas Around Turkey, one of the world’s largest producers of pistachios, has begun using tons of the shells to produce biogas (methane) as an alternative energy source instead of dumping them in landfills. The country even plans to power its first eco-city using this unconventional fuel. The planned 7,900-acre metropolis is expected to house 200,000 people in Gaziantep Province. This southern region near the Syrian border is the heart of Turkey’s pistachio production, yielding more than 50 percent of the country’s nuts. “When you plan such environmentally friendly systems, you take a look at the natural resources you have,” explains Seda Muftuoglu Gulec, a Turkish green building expert. “If the region was abundant in wind power, we would use wind energy.” If the project goes forward, construction will start within two years and be completed within two decades. A pilot phase will focus on a 135-acre piece of land and, if successful, expand into the entire city. It may inspire other agricultural regions to look at what they typically consider waste as an energy source. For more information, visit Tinyurl.com/PistachioPoweredCity.
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Solar Timeshare
Buying Kilowatts from Each Other Yeloha, a new, Boston-based, peer-to-peer solar startup, allows anyone to go solar, even if they live in a rented apartment, have a roof blocked by a shady tree or don’t have the funds to buy panels. Customers can sign up for the service either as a “sun host” or “sun partner”. Potential sun host homeowners have a roof suitable for solar, but can’t afford panels. Yeloha will install the panels for free in exchange for access to the solar power the panels create. Sun hosts also get about a third of the electricity created by the panels for free, translating to lower monthly power bills. The remaining power is distributed to the sun partners—customers that want to go solar, but don’t have a proper roof or own their home. Sun partners can buy as many solar credits as they’d like from Yeloha at a price that’s less than what they’d normally pay to their utility. The service is currently operating in Massachusetts only, but has plans for expansion across the country. For more information, visit Yeloha.com/sunhost.
Fracking Halt
Earthquakes Derail Dutch Gas Production Gas production by fracking in the Loppersum, Netherlands, area of the Groningen natural gas field, Europe’s largest, was suspended by a Dutch court after a home was damaged by earthquakes linked to the operation. Nette Kruzenga, co-founder of Groningen Centraal, one of two groups seeking an immediate halt in Groningen gas production, says, “It is clear the judge said that the situation around Loppersum is dangerous.” The actions of Dutch officials are different than in the U.S., where many people acknowledge the same problem while others deny its existence. States that tend to cite the danger are those that have experienced damaging earthquakes, including Arkansas, Oklahoma, Ohio and Virginia. Deniers include big-fracking states such as California, Colorado and Texas. In states that have reduced new injections and scaled back current operations, earthquakes have abated.
Crab Crisis Valuable Horseshoe Species Going Extinct The horseshoe crab, which is not really a crab, but belongs to the taxonomical class Merostomata among arthropods, is about to join the long list of endangered species. Their potential extinction poses a major threat to pharmaceutical, clinical and food industries seeking the secrets to the species’ survival over more than 250 million years with minimal evolution, enduring extreme temperature conditions and salinity. Individuals are able to go without eating for a year. Commonly found living in warm, shallow coastal waters on the sea floor, horseshoe crabs play an important ecological role. A continuing decrease in their population will affect other species, especially shorebirds that feed on the eggs, destabilizing the food chain. Sea turtles also feed on adult horseshoe crabs. Scientists worldwide want to include the invertebrate in schedule IV of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1974, labeling them as an endangered species. Enforcement will include monitoring for improper uses of horseshoe crabs. Source: EndangeredSpeciesInternational.org
ecotip Trendy Transit
More Americans Hop on Buses and Trains More people today are embracing the many benefits of commuting by public transit. Beyond the good feelings of reducing their carbon footprint and avoiding the stress of traffic, they are meeting and conversing with fellow passengers, reading, working via mobile devices or simply relaxing. Total U.S. mass transit trips topped 2.7 billion in the third quarter of 2014, a 1.8 percent rise from the same period in 2013, according to the American Public Transportation Association. This represents “a dramatic change in public opinion as more people are demanding public transportation services,” according to President and CEO Michael Melaniphy. Many communities are responding by improving the operations and scope of their mass transit systems. Oklahoma City’s bus and metro system was acquired by Embark (EmbarkOK.com) in 2013. In April 2014, it launched the first phase of changes, including increased frequency of bus routes to reduce both passenger waiting and travel times. Since then, ridership has increased 8 percent. Beginning last January, two crosstown bus routes began operating until midnight. For Andre Small, late-night service means he can ride to and from his home and the restaurant where he works. “I would take the afternoon bus to work, but then have to walk four miles home when my shift ended at 11 p.m.,” says Small. “Carrying my tips in cash late at night didn’t feel safe. Bus service until midnight is a lifesaver.” Bus ridership in Indianapolis reached a 23year peak last year, totaling nearly 10.3 million passenger trips, and a new downtown transportation center is expected to open this year. IndyGo, the Indianapolis Public Transportation Corporation (IndyGo.net), plans to offer the nation’s largest electric bus fleet, rolling out the first vehicles by fall, with a fleet of 21 by year’s end. Capitol Metro launched two special MetroRapid bus routes in Austin, Texas, in 2014, and new bus and rail transportation centers opened last year in Denver and Anaheim, California. New streetcar projects are underway in Atlanta, Charlotte, Cincinnati, Dallas, Detroit, Kansas City, Oklahoma City, Salt Lake City, Tucson and Washington, D.C. natural awakenings
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ENLIGHTENED PARENTING Tips for Raising Confident and Loving Kids by Meredith Montgomery
F
ueled by unconditional love, parenting with presence embraces all potential connections between parents and their children.
seen firsthand, “If you have a connection with your kids, you can have a lot more influence on them.” Noting that sometimes children feel like their parents love them, but Establishing Values don’t necessarily like them, Martin Shelly Lefkoe, co-author emphasizes finding ways My dad always of Chicken Soup for the to identify with their intold me it was my terests. “I love cars, and Soul: Guide to Effective Parenting, believes that dad used to invite school, my choice, my children learn what we me on test drives when my grades, my life. I was a kid. Both of my model as important values. She tells her daughtook time to It made me want to parents ters they should treat her connect with me, which take responsibility. had a huge impact on with dignity and respect both because she’s their our relationship.” ~Casey Martin mother and, “That’s how Christine Carter, you treat people and that’s how I treat Ph.D., a sociologist with the University them.” Honesty is also a high priority in of California Greater Good Science their household. Center, recognizes the importance of Minneapolis college student Casey talking explicitly about values. When Martin often joins his father, Kirk, in we see kids doing something we value, presenting Calm Parenting workshops ask them how it made them feel, she for parents, teachers and students advises. “Teens don’t necessarily know around the country. In growing up, he’s that their parents value character over
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grades,” Carter says, “particularly if parents tend to monitor grades more than aspects of a child’s character. What do you talk about more—their achievements or their character? If it’s the former, consider that you unintentionally might be sending the wrong message.”
Hummingbird Parenting
Overprotection of children by what’s termed helicopter parenting, can cause a disabling sense of entitlement where kids begin to believe, possibly unconsciously, that they are entitled to a difficulty-free life, Carter observes. “There’s an epidemic of cheating because students don’t want to try hard, and they expect to be rescued,” she says. “Although it’s terrifying to let our kids fail, when we don’t let them experience difficulty, they see mistakes as being so awful they must be avoided at any cost. To gain mastery in any arena, we must challenge ourselves, even if that means making mistakes.” “We lose sight that we’re not raising children, we’re raising adults,” says Malibu, California, marriage, family and child therapist Susan Stiffelman, author of Parenting with Presence: Practices for Raising Conscious, Confident, Caring Kids. “Empower them to cope with ups and downs. Help them know and trust themselves by not legislating their opinions and by allowing them to experiment.” Children often struggle with transitions, especially when things don’t go as planned. Martin recommends, “When kids throw tantrums or argue to get out of a challenging situation that’s causing them anxiety, help them work through it. Tell them that you know they’re feeling anxious, that you’ve felt that way before, too, and then help by giving them something specific to do or focus on.” Independent outdoor play has been proven to help kids learn to exert self-control. America’s children aren’t allowed to roam freely outside to experience nature as previous generations did. In Last Child in the Woods, author Richard Louv cautions against being limited by modern factors such as restrictive subdivision covenants and media-induced fear. “There are risks outdoors, but there are huge psychological, physical and spiritual risks in
raising future generations If you can’t explain rental expectations while considering what under protective house something to a serves the child best in arrest,” he says. the moment. When a Louv prefers what’s 5-year-old, you child tries to tell Mom called a hummingbird don’t really something when she’s approach: “Hummingdistracted, the child bird parents don’t hover understand it; may conclude that what over their kids with they make you they say is unimportant. nature flash cards; they Instead, the mother can stand back and make think about acknowledge the imporspace for exploration what you know. tance of what the child and problem solving has to say and how she through independent ~Armin Brott looks forward to listenplay, while remaining ing once she’s freed up nearby, ready to zoom in before eventually giving at a moment’s notice if the child her full attention. safety becomes an issue.” Parents can serve as a safe haven Armin Brott, host of San Francisco’s for kids. Stiffelman says, “Allow them to Positive Parenting radio program, respeak the truth without being corrected minds parents to increase opportunities or shamed. If they tell you they’d like for independence as youngsters grow. to do something you don’t approve of, “Test a child’s ability to handle more resist the urge to react with immediate freedom by providing the opportunity advice and talk to them about their to prove that they can. If they succeed, it’s a confidence builder. If not, it allows decision-making process. Be present enough for them to let them hear themthem to see for themselves that they’re selves think out loud.” not ready yet.” “Children need affection, attention, Disciplined Communication acknowledgment and unconditional love, not discipline. When you punish The first eight years of a child’s life are kids, they feel absolved: ‘I did somethe most formative, effecting personal thing bad, I got punished, now we’re beliefs that will shape the adult that even,’” says Lefkoe. When they get they’ll become, including impediments caught doing something they shouldn’t to fruitful self-expression. A healthy be doing, she recommends (with chilconversational relationship can foster dren as young as 5) asking them, “What connection and security while respectfully teaching children right from wrong. are the consequences of your actions? Do you want to live with them? Your Lefkoe suggests managing pa-
goal with this conversation should be that your child walks away feeling like they made a mistake, but it was a great learning opportunity.” As kids mature and are faced with potentially dangerous scenarios, “You don’t want them worrying about what their friends will think; you want them thinking about the consequences,” says Lefkoe.
Navigating the Teen Years
The intense journey of adolescence is about discovering oneself and how to reach full potential. Carter says, “I had to constantly remind myself that this is their journey, not mine, and that it’s going to sometimes be dark and difficult.” “The more power you give kids, the less they feel the need to test the universe,” says Lefkoe, who reminds parents that while it’s relatively easy to control young children, rebellious teenagers are harder to handle when they feel they have something to prove to an overbearing parent. Offering calculated risk-taking opportunities that don’t involve drugs and alcohol is beneficial in the teen years. “You want them to know how to handle freedom and be responsible once they are on their own,” she says. “When I got my driver’s license, I always came home before curfew,” says Martin. “I learned that if I could control myself, my parents didn’t feel the need to control me, which gave me a ton of power in my life.” Brott observes that as the par-
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August 2015
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enting role changes, “We can offer to help, but it’s equally important to learn to let go and admire the young adults they’re becoming.” Teens desperately want to not feel like a kid, adds Stiffelman. “They may tell you to back off, but stay present and engaged—like wallpaper. The more you ask their opinion or invite them to teach you something, the more they’ll feel your support.” With sex education, the authors of The New Puberty, Pediatric Endocrinologist Dr. Louise Greenspan and Adolescent Psychologist Julianna Deardorff, Ph.D., emphasize the importance of being approachable from a young age,
so kids naturally turn to their parents when sensitive questions arise. “It shouldn’t be about having ‘the talk’; it’s about maintaining an ongoing conversation,” says Greenspan. “Body odor is a good starting point in talking about body issues because it’s not intimidating and can be comfortably addressed by either parent.” Avoid rushing into subjects they’re not ready for by focusing on answering the questions that are posed, while offering a glimpse into the near future. Deardorff says, “Pubertal changes happen over time, so be patient. Parents have a lot of anxiety and anticipation about puberty. When you start to see
Conscious Parenting Resources The Body Book for Boys by Rebecca Paley, Grace Norwich and Jonathan Mar The Care and Keeping of You: the Body Book for Younger Girls by Valorie Schaefer The Care and Keeping of You 2: The Body Book for Older Girls by Cara Natterson Father for Life: A Journey of Joy, Challenge and Change by Armin Brott Holistic Mom’s Network HolisticMoms.org
Last Child in the Woods by Richard Louv The New Puberty by Louise Greenspan, M.D., and Julianna Deardorff, Ph.D. Parenting the Lefkoe Way TheLefkoeWay.com Parenting with Presence by Susan Stiffelman Raising Happiness: 10 Simple Steps for More Joyful Kids and Happier Parents by Christine Carter
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We often forget that the work we do as parents is essential both for our children’s well-being and the greater good of the world. ~Christine Carter the first signs, you don’t have to communicate everything all at once.” Consider throwing a puberty party or a health workshop for a son or daughter and their friends. Invite a parent that is comfortable with the subject matter—a nurse, physician or teacher— to get the conversation started. “Fight the urge to emotionally or physically withdraw,” counsels Deardorff. “Sharing activities is a form of communication, too.”
Kids as Teachers
“By paying attention, we can learn a lot of skills from our kids,” says Brott. Generally, youngsters have a greater tolerance for other people’s mistakes and opinions than adults, and tend to be more laid back. They regularly teach spiritual lessons about giving and receiving love and happiness in ways we never imagined. Through all the inevitable challenges, Stiffelman notes, “When parenting with presence, we orient ourselves with whatever good, bad or difficult moment is unfolding and bring more of our self—our heart, consciousness, understanding and compassion—to hold steady as the seas get rocky. Children offer us opportunities to confront the dark and dusty corners of our minds and hearts, creating conditions to call forth the kind of learning that can liberate us from old paradigms.” It all allows us to lead more expansive and fulfilling lives as we open ourselves to more of the love, learning and joy that the adventure of parenting can bring. When we embrace the healing and transformation that is being offered through parenting with presence, the rewards can be limitless. Meredith Montgomery publishes Natural Awakenings of Mobile/Baldwin, AL (HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com).
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10 STEPS TO FAMILY HAPPINESS
Advertising with Natural Awakenings reaches your direct market and allows you to be seen in print, online, on Facebook and Twitter, on mobile devices, and through email blasts.
by Christine Carter
H
appier kids are more likely to become successful, accomplished adults. Looking at the science can show what works in raising naturally healthy, happy kids.
feelings are okay, even though bad behavior isn’t.
Put on Your Own Oxygen Mask First. How happy parents are dramatically affects how happy and successful their kids are.
Teach Self-Discipline. Self-discipline in kids is more predictive of future success than intelligence or most anything else good. Start teaching it by helping kids learn ways to distract themselves from temptation.
Build a Village. The breadth and depth of our positive relationships with other people is the strongest predictor of human happiness. Expect Effort and Enjoyment, Not Perfection. Parents that overemphasize achievement are more likely to have kids with higher levels of depression, anxiety and substance abuse compared to others. Praise effort, not natural ability. Choose Gratitude, Forgiveness and Optimism. Optimism is so closely related to happiness that the two are practically interchangeable. Teach preteens to look on the bright side. Raise their Emotional Intelligence. It’s a skill, not an inborn trait. Parents can help by empathizing with children facing difficult emotions and helping them identify and label what they are feeling. Let them know that all
Form Happiness Habits. Turn these happiness skills, plus the positive skills parents already have, into habits.
Enjoy the Present Moment. We can be super-busy and deeply happy at the same time by deeply experiencing the present moment. Rig their Environment for Happiness. Monitor a child’s surroundings so that the family’s deliberate happiness efforts have maximum effect. Eat Dinner Together. This simple tradition helps mold better kids and makes them happier, too. Christine Carter, Ph.D., is the author of Raising Happiness: 10 Simple Steps for More Joyful Kids and Happier Parents and The Sweet Spot: How to Find Your Groove at Home and Work. She is a senior fellow at the University of California, Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center. Learn more at ChristineCarter.com.
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healingways
The Vaccine Push Mandatory Laws vs. Personal Choice by Linda Sechrist
F Teach clients how to defy age and illness through medical yoga. Advertise in Natural Awakenings’
September Yoga Issue
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ront-page headlines Mandatory vaccines Yet, “There is no availabout questionable able evidence on vaccines’ pose the latest effectiveness that is plaresearch, corporate manipulations, purchased cebo-controlled, plus the affront to politicians, medical coverhealth effects of vaccines citizens’ right ups and whistleblower rein combination have never ports have left Americans been studied, certainly not to informed feeling hoodwinked and the 69 total doses of 16 self-government. types of vaccines given to skeptical. According to a new Pew Research Center children starting 12 hours study, the public doesn’t trust the inafter birth through age 18,” says Sayer Ji, formation they’re fed on issues such as a member of the National Health Federgenetically engineered crops and now, ation board of governors and founder of mandatory vaccines. GreenMedInfo.com. The current state of distrust of “Vaccine risks for anyone can range scientific statistics and their impact on from zero to 100 percent, depending our lives doesn’t bode well for lawmak- upon one’s genes, microbiome DNA, ers attempting to build consensus for environment, age and health at the time uniform mandatory vaccination interof vaccination and the type and number vention. The current rush to pass such of vaccines given,” advises Barbara Loe legislation is largely due to 169 cases Fisher, president and co-founder of the of measles reported between January 4 nonprofit National Vaccine Information and April 17, encompassing 20 states Center, headquartered in Vienna, Virginia. and the District of Columbia, all traced “Vaccines are not safe or effective to a traveler infected overseas that then for everyone because we’re not all the visited a California amusement park. same and we don’t all respond the Common sense and independent same way to pharmaceutical products,” research counters the stance that would says Fisher. She notes that responses rob individuals of their moral right to to infectious diseases and the risk for conscientious, philosophical and personcomplications can also vary, depending al-belief exemption from being subjected upon similar factors. to vaccines. Hard evidence in a plethora Among the most prominent warnof published studies further identifies geings on vaccine ingredients, concerned netic factors that could cause the develdoctors, researchers and medical opment of adverse effects to vaccines. whistleblowers cite dangers of the toxin
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thimerosal, a mercury-conVaccines are not former pharmaceutical taining preservative used in sales representatives, responsible for some vaccines and vaccine attorneys and others, adjuvants such as alumiBark exposes serious the eradication num gels or aluminum salts conflicts of interest. of diseases such as These include vaccine added to elicit a stronger immune response against polio and smallpox. research funding, hiring the germ the vaccine introbetween pharmaceutical duces into our body. ~U.S. Centers for Disease and chemical industries Leading books citing and their government Control database telling research include regulating agencies, Thimerosal: Let the Science Speak, by sponsored scientific propaganda used Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Dr. Mark to silence critics, and large-scale corHyman; Vaccines: What CDC Docuruption within the billion-dollar vaccine ments and Science Reveal, by Dr. Sherri industry. Plus, it points out problems Tenpenny; Vaccine Epidemic, by Louise with the National Childhood Vaccine Kuo Habakus; and Science for Sale, by Injury Act of 1986 that Congress passed David L. Lewis, Ph.D. Top film docuto give drug manufacturers, the governmentaries include Shots in the Dark; ment and physicians protection from Vaccination: The Hidden Truth; Trace lawsuits arising from injuries caused by Amounts; The Greater Good; and childhood vaccines. Vaccine Nation. “Since 1988, thousands of chil Bought: The Hidden Story Behind dren and adults in America that have Vaccines, Big Pharma and Your Food suffered brain inflammation and other resulted from two years of investilong-recognized vaccine reactions have gative research in disaster medical been collectively awarded $3 billion in management by Toni Bark, now an vaccine injury compensation. There are integrative physician. In interviews with thousands more that have been unable practicing doctors, research scientists, to secure federal compensation for their
What to Ask Before Vaccinating
V
accines are pharmaceutical products that carry risks. The National Vaccine Information Center encourages parents to become fully informed about the potential risks and disease complications for their own children and pose these questions to one or more trusted healthcare professionals before making a decision. n Am I, or my child, sick right now? n Have I, or my child, had a bad reaction to a vaccination before?
vaccine injuries,” reports Fisher. “At least 25,000 to 30,000 reports of vaccine reactions are filed annually with the Vaccine Adverse Events Reporting System, operated by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control,” says Tenpenny. “Underreporting is a substantial problem. It’s estimated that less than 1 percent of all adverse events from drugs and vaccines are reported.” Vaccine ResearchLibrary.com cites 7,200 journal articles and studies that expose the harm caused by vaccines. “Knowledge is empowering and personal discernment is priceless. The facts challenge the health claims by government health agencies and pharmaceutical firms that vaccines are perfectly safe,” says Ji. “Public doubt, distrust and skepticism are rational and natural consequences.” For more information, visit the National Vaccine Information Center at nvic.org and the coalition of citizen advocates at NationalHealthFreedom.org. Connect with writer Linda Sechrist at ItsAllAboutWe.com.
At the end of the day, the most overwhelming key to a child’s success is the positive involvement of parents. ~Jane D. Hull
n Do I, or my child, have a personal or family history of vaccine reactions, neurological disorders, severe allergies or immune system problems? n Do I know the disease and vaccine risks for my child or myself? n Do I have full information about the vaccine’s side effects? n Do I know how to identify and report a vaccine reaction? n Will I have a written record, including the vaccine manufacturer’s name and lot number, for all vaccinations? n Am I convinced that I have the right to make an informed choice? Visit nvic.org for information on recognizing vaccine-reaction symptoms.
natural awakenings
August 2015
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Helix Hair Design Can Help You By-Pass Artificial Beauty this Summer
by Mary-Elizabeth Schurrer
W
hen was the last time your hair got cut or styled by a PhD-accredited cosmetologist? Chances are, not recently! Veteran hairstylist Jutta Mestas, however, is an exception to this generality. Owner of the unique and innovative European Hair Designer salon in Port Charlotte, Mestas is the Suncoast’s only P.H.D. – Professional Helix Designer, that is! For those unfamiliar with this “cutting”-edge hairstyling method, Mestas sets the record straight. “The Helix technique requires many hours of training, as this type of haircut is done with a specially designed scissor that is both beveled and torqued (curved and twisted) in order to cut a conical shape into the hair strand. “Some people get curls, and some get waves, but everybody gets body and volume, which is really what most people need. Helix is a chemical-free alternative to damaging perms, and this cut cannot be done with any other type of scissors. Anybody can benefit from Helix, especially people with baby-fine hair!” Not only does this Helix technique provide a gentle solution to the harsh wear and tear caused by synthetic hair products, it also permanently changes the hair shaft’s structure, locking in voluminous texture and virtually eliminating the
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need for frequent touch-ups. Mestas expounds, “A traditional haircut is done with a straight scissor, so you can never achieve a conical twist without the special Helix scissor. The primary benefit of a Helix cut is that it will not grow out of style, but will grow with your style.” This multi-talented esthetician gives her clients more than haircuts, though. In fact, her full-service salon offers a wide spectrum of beauty treatments that you won’t find anywhere else in Southwest Florida. “Another specialty I offer is called “balayage,” which is a French hair painting technique that creates a sun-kissed look with a more natural result [than chemical highlights]. Most recently, I’ve also started offering a new treatment incorporated into color or highlights to rebuild and repair fried, damaged hair. This is not a conditioner or surface ‘band-aid,’ but can be described more like deep-penetrating antibiotics for your hair,” Mestas clarifies. However, despite this impressive skill set, it’s evident that her passion and expertise primarily stem from Helix. “I have been performing the Helix technique for over 13 years on my guests with great results. It’s such a carefree haircut!” She then continues, “I was originally trained as a hairstylist in Germany at the age of 14 through a three-year apprenticeship. Then, I had the opportunity to cruise the world, styling hair, and eventually moved to the U.S. in 1990. Now, I have owned my own Helix salon for over 10 years in Port Charlotte.” Furthermore, since chemicals are never involved in the formulation of her signature style, Mestas opts for an all-natural approach instead. “I use all organic products including color, highlights (made from real blueberries) and even organic perms if a guest requests one. Those same organic products are available in my salon to take home as well,” Mestas adds. In addition to being the area’s only Helix-certified salon, she believes these other notable factors set European Hair Designers apart from her more conventional competitors. “I operate a one-person salon, which means my guests receive a one-on-one service. My salon is also scent-free and mostly chemical-free, so there are no harsh smells from nail products or perm treatments. My guests can always enjoy a clean, relaxed, no-drama atmosphere.” A peaceful, personalized ambiance and a lush cascade of curls await you at this one-of-a-kind salon. But, should you need any more incentive to try the Helix technique, Mestas sums it up perfectly: “If your hairstyle is not becoming to you, then you should ‘be coming’ to me!” Located at 701 JC Center Court, Unit 10, Port Charlotte. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 941629-0074 or visit EuropeanHairDesigner.com. Mary-Elizabeth Schurrer is a writer and copy editor for the Sarasota-Manatee edition of Natural Awakenings. She works as a freelance writer, blogger and social media marketer, based in Southwest FL. Her personal blog, HealthBeAHippie.Wordpress.com, features practical tips for embracing a fit, nutritious and empowered lifestyle.
healthykids rejects piercings, and you can end up with permanent scars,” he adds.
Think Before You Ink
Healthier Alternatives
How to Make Body Art Safe and Reversible by April Thompson
F
ew things in life are more permanent than a tattoo. Yet those most likely to change their life course—in careers, relationships or fashion styles—are also most inclined to get inked. Nearly 40 percent of Americans between the ages of 18 and 25 have at least one tattoo, according to a Pew Research Center poll. “If you change your hairstyle or look often, you probably aren’t a good candidate for a tattoo, because of the limited flexibility to change that decision,” says Dr. Gregory Hall, a primary care physician in Cleveland, Ohio. Hall created the website ShouldITattoo.com to help inform others after seeing so many patients that regretted the tattoos of their youth. Hall has also authored Teens, Tattoos, & Piercings to try to reach school-aged kids before they even consider body art.
Career Concerns
The Millennial generation, which is getting inked in record numbers, is also the leading demographic for ink removal. More than half the tattoos removed by medical professionals in 2013 were for people between 19 and 34 years old. Removal often costs many times more than being tattooed, sometimes requiring a dozen or more sessions over several months. Beyond the likelihood of changing one’s mind about a tattoo, Hall cites
employment, discrimination and health concerns in urging teens to decline getting inked or pierced. Employers have the legal right to reject a job candidate because of a tattoo—a challenging fact of life for young people to reconcile when they’re still undecided on a career path. Different branches of the military have their own restrictions on body art, which can include the tattoo’s size, placement and subject, while some companies ban tattoos and piercings altogether. The commitment of a tattoo never interested Lauren Waaland-Kreutzer, 25, of Richmond, Virginia. “I don’t know how I’m going to age and who I’ll be in five years,” she says. Two days after turning 18, however, she got her nose pierced, a decision she hasn’t regretted, even though it’s affected her employment. “While I was working my way through college, I gave up slightly better paying jobs in order to keep my piercing,” she says. Her current employer, a local nonprofit in Fredericksburg, Virginia, is piercing-friendly, but she has friends that have to cover their tattoos and piercings at work; a former classmate-turned-lawyer even had to remove a small star tattoo from her wrist. While piercings are more reversible than tattoos, they are also more prone to certain health risks. Tongue and cheek piercings can accelerate tooth decay, according to Hall, and the risk of infection can be high, especially if it impacts cartilage. “Some skin
The good news is there are more natural, less permanent alternatives for young adults to adorn and express themselves, including custom-made temporary tattoos, plus magnetic and clip-on jewelry that are indistinguishable from a permanent piercing. Temporary tattoos work to try out the look before possibly committing. Henna tattoos, an import from India, are another popular alternative, although Hall has seen many patients develop allergic reactions to this plant-based ink, so it’s always best to test on a small spot first. Permanent organic inks fade more over time, a downside for someone that keeps a tattoo for life, but “come off beautifully” in a removal process compared to the standard heavy metal inks, reports Hall. Also, “We just don’t know yet what impact the heavy metals may have on people’s immune systems down the road,” he says. “Organic inks are much safer.”
Helpful Facts
State laws vary regarding age criteria, some allowing tattoos at any age with parental consent. Hall’s tattoo website has a downloadable contract to encourage kids to talk with their parents before making a decision, regardless of the need for consent. Name tattoos, even those of loved ones, are among the tattoos most likely to be removed later in life. Hall saw this with a young man that had the names of the grandparents that raised him tattooed on his hands. He said, “I still love them, but I’m tired of looking at them and I have got to get them off me.” A Harris Interactive poll revealed that a third of company managers would think twice about promoting someone with tattoos or piercings—a more critical factor than how tidy their workspace is kept or the appropriateness of their attire. Connect with freelance writer April Thompson, of Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com. Continued on page 20
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The Toxic Truth About Tattoos
naturalpet
by Anya Vien
T
he spike in popularity of tattooing that began a couple of decades ago in America and Europe continues to spread worldwide. Those considering getting one will do well to carefully review the options and the health dangers related to traditional tattoos. Tattoo inks contain heavy metals, and red inks often contain mercury. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved any tattoo pigments for injection into the skin. Tattoo parlors are regulated by states and municipalities, but the FDA doesn’t require manufacturers to release ink ingredients. The lack of regulation is unsettling, as some 45 million Americans have been inked. Many tattoo ink pigments are industrial-grade colors suitable for printer ink or automobile paint, and the FDA warns that it may possibly cause infections, allergic reactions, keloids (fibrous scar tissue), granulomas (response to inflammation, infection or a foreign substance) and potential complications connected with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The carrier solution used in tattoo inks also contains harmful substances such as denatured alcohol, methanol, antifreeze, detergents, formaldehyde and other toxic aldehydes. A study in the journal Medicine by the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, in Dallas, links commercial tattoos to the spread of hepatitis C. Dr. Robert Haley, a preventative medicine specialist and former U.S. Centers for Disease Control infection control official, comments, “We found that commercially acquired tattoos accounted for more than twice as many hepatitis C infections as injection-drug use. This means it may have been the largest single contributor to the nationwide epidemic of this form of hepatitis.” Anya Vien is the owner of LivingTraditionally.com, focusing on naturally healthy and sustainable living.
People change over time and so do symbols. A symbol that means one thing in society today can easily change. Very little is truly timeless. ~Gregory Hall 20
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Animal Talk They Have Lots to Say If We’d Only Listen by Sandra Murphy
Some people talk to animals. Not many listen, though. That’s the problem. ~A. A. Milne, Winnie the Pooh
Brave New World In less than 10 years, we’ll see a universal translator for communicating with dogs and cats, predicts Con Slobodchikoff, Ph.D., professor emeritus of biological sciences at Northern Arizona University, in Flagstaff. Just like language apps change, for example, a French phrase into English, the device would translate barks into “Put on Animal Planet,” or meows to “Feed me tuna.” Computers will foster better understanding between humans and animals. David Roberts, a computer science assistant professor, and his team at North Carolina State University, in Raleigh, have received a grant from the National Science Foundation to develop a collar to send wireless instructions to dogs via vibrations. Multiple sensors return information about the dog’s heart rate and more, which is especially helpful for service dogs taught not to show stress or distress. Even without such technology, we can all enjoy improved relationships with animals, domestic and wild, by learning to listen. Veterinarian Linda Bender, an animal advocate in Charleston, South Carolina, and author of Animal Wisdom, says, “We all have the ability to understand animals. It gets trained out of us around age 7. It’s not about doing, it’s about being, a connection through the heart.” Meditation quiets the mind from daily concerns, allowing us to stay open, listen and be aware.
Everyday Examples Author Frances Hodgson Burnett captures the essence of this childlike sensibility in A Little Princess: “How it is that animals understand things I do not know, but it is certain that they do understand. Perhaps there is a language which is not made of words and everything understands it. Perhaps there is a soul hidden in everything and it can always speak, without even making a sound, to another soul.” In Portland, Oregon, intuitive Melissa Mattern relates examples supporting Burnett’s premise from her own experiences. “My newest cat, Rocket, beat up my other cats and ran amok. Nothing helped until I took a class in animal communication.” She asked her other cats what to do. “They were clear that I should have consulted them before bringing Rocket into the house,” she says. “I asked Rocket if he would like another home and the picture of a chef’s hat popped into my mind. When we found the perfect home for Rocket, the man was a chef whose only other pet is a turtle that lets Rocket sleep with him. Everyone is happy with the results.” Charli, a 14-year-old pointer, travels the world with her family. Her owner, Cynthia Bowman, shares one of her favorite stories: “As we planned our move to Spain, Charli got ill. I explained, ‘We want you to go too, but if you can’t, tell me.’ A picture of a smoked ham popped into my head. I didn’t understand, but Charli got well and went along,” she says. “In our new Gipuzkoa neighborhood, a deli sells hams, just like I pictured. I can’t explain how Charli knew.” It becomes a matter of trust. “Thoughts or mind pictures can be easy to dismiss or mistrust as imagination,” she comments. “Every species has something they do best. With humans, it’s problem solving and advanced thinking. We’ve separated ourselves from nature. We need to remember we’re all interconnected,” Bender says. “When we learn to tune into ourselves, be heart-centric and radiate compassionate energy, it makes us irresistible to other creatures.”
without ever being harmed,” he says. “Often, hikers are told, ‘Make yourself look big and scream.’ I say ‘Hello,’ comment on the day and thank them for letting me share their space.” Staying calm is vital. Bender agrees. Grabbed by an orangutan at a wild animal trafficking rescue project, “She twisted my arm and could have easily broken it,” Bender recalls. “Fear is picked up as a threat so I tried to radiate calm. It was intense, but she gradually let go. With animals, you attract what you give. Better communication means better understanding leading to improved behavior on everyone’s part.” Communication and understanding among human, domestic and wild animals not only makes life more interesting, it can save lives. Connect with Sandra Murphy at StLouisFreelanceWriter@ mindspring.com.
Animal Linguists “Everyone is born with the power to communicate with other species, and although it is long lost for many people, it can be regained for the benefit of all beings on Earth,” says Penelope Smith, author of the Animal Talk and When Animals Speak book series. Meet colleagues of this “Grandmother of Interspecies Communication” via Tinyurl.com/AnimalCommunicatorsDirectory.
Healthy Food for a Healthy Life
Exotic Tales Wild animals communicate with David Llewellyn. As a writer of outdoor/nature blogs, he’s traveled full time in a 30-foot RV since 2002. “They don’t understand words, but go by what’s in your soul. I’ve picked berries with black bears and met a mountain lion and her two cubs along a trail
Nobody experiences magic unless they believe in it. ~Linda Bender
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When swimming, apply non-toxic, water-resistant sunscreen every few hours and consider wearing tinted goggles. Pack water or natural electrolytereplenishing beverages and avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks.
fitbody
~ Rob Rogerson
Swimming in Nature Splashing Safely in Lakes and Oceans by Lane Vail
B
ostonian avid open-water swimmer Kate Radville is delighted that water constitutes 70 percent of the Earth’s surface. “The controlled environment of a swimming pool is convenient,” she says, “but splashing around outside in the beautiful summer sunshine is undeniably liberating.” Enthusiasts are both attracted by the rugged beauty of wild water and humbled by its power, but without proper skill or knowledge, swimming in natural settings can be risky. “Millions of dollars are annually spent on advertising, tourism and beach restoration projects to bring people to water,” says Dave Benjamin, executive director of the Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project, “yet, the American Red Cross finds that 54 percent of Americans lack basic water emergency lifesaving skills.” Maximize enjoyment and safety in the open water by heeding basic guidelines. Be Weather Wise. Check the forecast before heading out and be conscious of any sudden climate changes. Leave the water or the area in the event of thunder or lightning. Tall buildings or mountains may block the view of the sky, and storms can pop up quickly, so
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Benjamin recommends using a battery-powered portable radio or smartphone app for weather updates. Wind and atmospheric pressure shifts can stir up waves for hours, so hesitate before returning to the water after a storm. Glean Information. “I can’t think of a time I’ve jumped into water I knew nothing about,” says Radville. “Some research prior to swimming is definitely advisable.” Renowned coach Steven Munatones, founder of the World Open Water Swimming Association, suggests walking along the beach to look for caution signs, surf conditions boards, flags, buoys, rope lines and available rescue equipment, plus emergency callboxes that pinpoint one’s location if cell phone service is weak. Even seemingly pristine waters can be contaminated by harmful bacteria, algal blooms or runoff pollutants after rain. “Chat with local beach-goers, swimmers, boaters or fishermen about current swimming conditions in designated areas,” counsels Munatones, and check social media sites like Facebook and area online swimming forums. Steer Clear. Be mindful of hid-
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den underwater hazards, ranging from sharp objects to submerged construction, which can create turbulent water and strong undercurrents. Swim in lifeguard-protected areas away from windsurfers, jet skiers and boaters that may not hear or see swimmers, adds Munatones. Respect Marine Life. Munatones advises giving marine life, however beautiful, a wide berth. “I’ve swum around the world with all sorts of intriguing sea life,” he says, “and these are wild animals, not the friendly ones you see in marine parks.” Stop swimming and watch the animal until it’s moved on. Be Water Wise. Water temperature, depth and movement, which fluctuate with rain, tides and wind, can also make conditions unpredictable, so research a destination beforehand. Pockets of cold water within an otherwise tepid mountain lake could induce a gasp response or hyperventilation, says Munatones, and prolonged immersion increases risk of muscle impairment and hypothermia. Likewise, an unexpected drop in the water floor may provoke panic. “Physically, someone capable of swimming in three feet of water can also swim in 300 feet,” says Munatones. “But mentally, deep water can feel spooky.” Rip currents are powerful streams that flow along the surface away from the shoreline. They may be easily spotted from the beach, but often go unnoticed by swimmers. “A potentially fatal mistake is allowing a ‘fight-or-flight’ response to kick in and trying to swim
Nature is unpredictable, and there are inherent risks associated with swimming in open water, so I always swim with a buddy for companionship and basic safeguarding.
inspiration
Speaking with Strangers The Simple Pleasures of Connecting
~Kate Radville against the current, because rips are treadmills that will exhaust your energy,” cautions Benjamin. Instead, flip, float and follow the safest path out of the water, a technique that conserves energy and alleviates stress and panic, he says. Watch for Waves. Swim facing oncoming waves and dive under the powerful white foam, coaches Munatones. “Feel the swell wash over you before coming up to the surface.” If knocked off balance by a wave, relax, hold your breath and wait for the tumbling to cease. Swim toward the light if disoriented under the water, and make sure your head is above any froth before inhaling. “Your lungs are your personal flotation device that keep the body buoyant,” says Benjamin. “Lay back and focus on your breathing.” While Coast Guard-approved flotation devices should be worn by children at all times, they are not substitutes for supervision, says Rob Rogerson, a lifeguard and ocean rescue training officer in Palm Beach County, Florida. “Parents must watch swimming and non-swimming children vigilantly.” “The power of the open water is immense,” says Munatones. “Be respectful, always.” Lane Vail is a freelance writer and blogger at DiscoveringHomemaking.com.
by Violet Decker
T
echnology tends to isolate us from others, but science points to the real value in reaching out. On average, we come into contact with more than 100 people a day, but often may not make any real connection with them. On a typical college campus, it’s rare to see a student not plugged in while walking from class to class. Saying “Hi” to an acquaintance or complimenting someone in passing is nearly impossible. These little day-to-day interactions could provide a steady source of simple pleasures for all if we regularly made the most of such opportunities. Part of the reason we intentionally isolate ourselves might be the false belief that we’ll be happier by doing so, according to a recent University of Chicago study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology. When subway riders were asked how they thought they would feel if they spoke to a stranger, nearly all of them predicted that the ride would be “less pleasant” than if they kept to themselves. After the ride, however, the results were unanimous: Those that spoke to another person reported having a more positive experience than those that sat in silence.
Parents teach children not to talk to strangers, but as adults, we miss a lot if we don’t. Even small talk can make a big difference in the quality of our day. It’s easy to try it to see if we don’t end up with a smile on our face. It’s ironic that young people spend hours each day on social networking sites, texting others and making plans with friends so they won’t sit alone at night, yet are getting worse at making such connections face-to-face. Even seated at the same table, conversational eye contact is becoming a lost art, another casualty of technology. Talking with others correlates with better communication skills, too. A 20-year study from Stanford University concluded that its most successful MBA graduates were those that showed the highest interests and skills in talking with others. So, instead of shying away from chatting with a fellow commuter or asking a cashier how her day is going, say “Hello.” It’s bound to make everyone’s day better. Violet Decker is a freelance writer in New York City. Connect at VDecker95@ gmail.com.
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greenliving
Airplane glue, rubber cement, spray adhesive and epoxy all emit toxic fumes. Instant glue (cyanoacrylate) likewise bonds fast to fingers; toxic, foul-smelling acetate (used in nail polish remover) is needed to remedy the situation.
Paints
GREEN ARTS Tips for Finding Safe Eco-Supplies
C
reative energy is contagious,” says Kim Harris, co-owner of Yucandu, a hands-on craft studio in Webster Groves, Missouri. As one client crafter commented, “Art is cheaper than therapy and a lot more fun.” It doubles the pleasure when we trust the nature of our supplies. Arts and crafts stir the imagination, spur creativity and are relaxing. Yet, for some, allergies, chemical sensitivities and eco-consciousness can make choosing materials a challenge. Manufacturers are not required to list heavy metals, toxic preservatives or petroleum-based ingredients, even when they’re labeled “non-toxic”. User- and environment-friendly alternatives may be difficult to locate, but are worth the effort. After working with paint, glue, chalk and modeling dough, children may lick their fingers and be reluctant to wash hands thoroughly. Retirees with newfound time for hobbies may also have weakened immune systems at risk to chemical exposure. Everyone benefits from minimizing exposure to toxins.
Papers
For greeting cards, scrapbooking or mixed media, paper provides background, texture, pattern and color. 24
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Markers and Crayons
Tree-free paper uses agricultural residue or fibers from bananas, coffee and tobacco, and EcoPaper.com researchers anticipate similar future use of pineapples, oranges and palm hearts. Labels can be misleading. White paper has been bleached. Processed chlorine-free (PCF) means no bleaching occurred during this incarnation of the paper. Totally chlorine-free (TCF) papers are as advertised. Paper is called recycled if it’s 100 percent postconsumer-recovered fiber—anything less is recycled content.
“Give kids great supplies and they’ll make great art,” maintains Harris. “They’ll also be respectful of how much they use.” Go for unscented, water-based markers, especially for younger children that are as apt to draw on themselves as on paper. Soy crayons are made from sustainable soybean oil, while retaining bright colors. Dustless chalk is preferred by some. Colored eco-pencils are another option. Beware of conventional dry erase markers, which contain the neurotoxin xylene; permanent markers emit fumes. Wax crayons are made with paraffin, a petroleum-based product.
Glues
Yarn and Other Fibers
by Avery Mack
“
Water-based tempera paint is easy to use; Chroma brand tempera removes some of the hazardous ingredients. “I use water-based, non-toxic acrylic paints and wine to paint recycled wine corks for my designs,” says Kanter. “This avoids harsh fumes and chemicals.” Note that acrylic paint can contain ammonia or formaldehyde. Oil paint produces fumes and requires turpentine, a petroleum-based product, to clean brushes. Aerosol spray paint is easily inhaled unless protective equipment is used.
For most projects, purchased glues are more convenient, longer lasting and easier to use than homemade. White glue and white paste, called “library paste”, are best with porous items like wood, paper, plastic and cloth. It takes longer to dry and needs to be held in place, but there are no fumes. “Jewelry is wearable art, so for mine, I primarily use water-based, non-toxic glues and sealers that simply wash off my hands,” advises Nancy Kanter, owner and designer of Sparkling Vine Design, in Thousand Oaks, California. Examples include Elmer’s Washable and Mod Podge.
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For knit or crochet projects, choose recycled silk and cotton or bamboo, soy silk from tofu byproducts, or natural, sustainable corn silk. Sheep’s wool, organic cotton or alpaca fibers, raw or hand-dyed with natural colors, are environmentally friendly. Rayon is recycled wood pulp treated with caustic soda, ammonia, acetone and sulfuric acid. Nylon, made from petroleum products, may have a harmful finish.
More Materials
Canvas is typically stretched on birch framing, a sustainable wood. Look for
If paint, glue, chalk or markers have a strong odor or the label says, “Use in a well-ventilated area,” it’s toxic. unbleached, organic cotton canvas without primer. Runoff from an organic cotton field doesn’t pollute waterways. Experiment with homemade modeling clay. Many tutorials and photos are available online. Commercial modeling clay contains wheat flour, which can cause a reaction for the gluten-sensitive. For papier-mâché projects, recycle newsprint and use white glue, thinned with water. Premade, packaged versions may contain asbestos fibers. Eco-beads with safe finishes vary from nuts and seeds to glass and stone. For grownups that like to create their own beads, realize that polymer clays contain vinyl/PVC. In making artistic expression safe, being conscious of the materials used is paramount.
Adopt the pace of nature—her secret is patience. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson
Connect with the freelance writer via AveryMack@mindspring.com.
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consciouseating
Kids like simple, elemental tastes and embrace the magic of the three-ingredient approach to cooking. ~Rozanne Gold, Eat Fresh Food: Awesome Recipes for Teen Chefs
KID COOKERY
They Love Healthy Food They Make Themselves by Judith Fertig
I
n less than a generation, childhood obesity has risen substantially, most notably in the United States, according to the article “Child and Adolescent Obesity: Part of a Bigger Picture,” in a recent issue of The Lancet. The authors attest that modern culture’s promotion of junk food encourages weight gain and can exacerbate risk factors for chronic disease in our kids. When concerned parents have a picky child bent on eating only French fries, they could enroll them in healthy cooking classes that offer tastings and related hands-on experiences for youths from preschoolers through teens. Here, children are encouraged to try more foods, eat healthier and learn about meal preparation, plus sharpen some math, geography and social skills. Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Leah Smith, the mother of two elementary school children, founded Kids Kitchen and Chefs Club, in Austin, Texas, in 2011. She offers classes for chefs (ages 3 to 6), junior chefs (5 to 11) and senior chefs (11 to 14). Kids learn how to make dishes such as yogurt parfait popsicles with healthy grains clusters or roasted
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tomato soup with homemade croutons. “I’m a firm believer that teaching kids about which foods are good for us, and why, will positively influence their lifelong eating habits,” says Smith. “Start right, stay right.” Elena Marre, also the mother of two elementary school children, faced the challenge of a picky eater in her family. In 2007, she started The Kids’ Table, in Chicago, and solved her own problem along the way. Says Marre, “It’s amazing how often I hear a child complain about not liking red peppers, dark leafy greens or onions at the beginning of a class. It’s so rewarding when that same child is devouring a dish made with those three ingredients at the end.” Healthy kids cooking classes provide a fresh way to combat poverty, according to the Children’s Aid Society, in New York City. The group started Go!Chefs in 2006 at community schools and centers throughout the city and knows how to make it fun with Iron Chef-style competitions. “When offered a choice between an apple and a candy on two consecutive occasions and with most having chosen
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the candy the first time, 57 percent of students in the Go!Kids health and fitness program chose the apple the second time, compared to 33 percent in the control group,” says Stefania Patinella, director of the society’s food and nutrition programs. In Minnesota’s Twin Cities region, “We do a lot of outreach with Head Start, community schools and organizations like scout troops,” says Chef Ani Loizzo, Whole Foods Market’s culinary instructor at the Whole Kids Club Kitchen Camp, in Lake Calhoun. “We have many kids that know about organic and biodynamic farming and we talk about that in class. We might focus on a healthy ingredient like tomatoes in a one-hour class or explore the culture of Greece or Mexico through food in a longer session.” Loizzo loves the natural curiosity that kids bring to cooking classes. “Sparking an interest in exploring ingredients and flavors can also lead to learning how to grow a garden and interest in the environment,” she says. For children in areas where such cooking classes aren’t yet offered, there are still fun ways to involve them in healthy meal preparation. Maggie LaBarbera of San Mateo, California, started her Web-based company NourishInteractive.com in 2005 after witnessing the harmful effects of teenage obesity when she was an intensive care nurse. It offers educational articles for parents and free downloadable activities that engage children with healthy foods. “Every positive change, no matter how small, is a step to creating a healthier child,” says LaBarbera. “Together, we can give children the knowledge, facts and skills to develop healthy habits for a lifetime.” Judith Fertig blogs at AlfrescoFood AndLifestyle.blogspot.com from Overland Park, KS.
Starter Recipes for Kids
Yields: 4 servings
4 ice pop molds 1 cup granola (use non-GMO, gluten-free Kind bars) in small pieces 1 cup organic fresh fruit such as raspberries, kiwi, mango and strawberries cut into small pieces 2 (6-oz) cartons organic dairy or non-dairy yogurt
Raw Banana Ice Cream Yields: about 1 quart
20 pitted dates, roughly chopped 2 Tbsp raw honey 2 Tbsp extra-virgin coconut oil 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 /8 tsp ground cinnamon 4 cups sliced very ripe organic bananas ½ cup raw peanuts, coarsely chopped, optional 2 Tbsp cacao nibs
Cheesy Lasagna Rolls
Adapted from a recipe from Whole Foods Market, Lake Calhoun, Minnesota
Yields: 4 to 6 servings
Layer ingredients in each ice pop mold like a parfait. Put a sprinkle of granola in first, and then layer yogurt and fresh cut fruit. Add another spoonful of granola to top it all off and freeze the pops for at least 4 to 6 hours. Adapted from a recipe by Leah Smith for Kids Kitchen and Chefs Club, in Austin, Texas
Adapted from a recipe by Kensey Goebel for Kids Kitchen and Chefs Club, in Austin, Texas
photo by Stephen Blancett
Yogurt Parfait Ice Pops with Healthy Grains Clusters
Put dates into a medium bowl, cover with lukewarm purified water and set aside to soak for 10 minutes. Drain dates and reserve soaking liquid. In a food processor, purée dates with 3 to 4 tablespoons of the soaking liquid, honey, oil, vanilla and cinnamon until smooth. (Discard the remaining liquid.) Add bananas and purée again until almost smooth. Transfer to a stainless steel bowl and stir in peanuts and cacao nibs. Cover and freeze, stirring occasionally, until almost solid—4 to 6 hours. Let ice cream soften a bit at room temperature before serving.
photo by Stephen Blancett
Courtesy of TxKidsKitchen.com
ere’s a sampling of healthy snack food recipes that kids love to make—and eat—in class and at home.
photo by Stephen Blancett
H
Line a 9-by-13-inch pan with parchment paper. Bake for about 25 minutes. Let them cool completely before cutting. Store in a plastic container separated by parchment paper. They should keep for about two weeks and may be refrigerated.
Nut Butter Granola Bars Yields: 8 bars
2¼ cups rolled oats ¼ cup shredded coconut (without added sugar) ½ cup applesauce 1 /3 cup nut butter (almond or peanut) ¼ tsp baking soda ½ cup raw honey or maple syrup 1 Tbsp milk or almond milk 3 Tbsp chocolate chips Preheat the oven to 350° F. Mix all dry ingredients in one bowl. Mix wet ingredients into a separate bowl; it may help to heat the nut butter a little first. Combine the wet and dry contents.
Sea salt ½ lb (8 to 10) uncooked lasagna noodles Organic olive or coconut oil 1 cup ricotta cheese 1½ cups prepared marinara sauce 1½ cups packed baby spinach ½ cup shredded mozzarella Preheat oven to 400° F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add noodles and cook until al dente, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain well and gently transfer to a clean surface. Oil the inside of a small roasting pan or casserole dish and set it aside. Working with one noodle at a time, spread with about 2 tablespoons each of the ricotta and marinara, then top with spinach. Starting at one end, roll up the noodle snugly, and then arrange it in the pan either seam-side down or with the rolls close enough to hold each other closed. Pour the remaining marinara over assembled rolls, sprinkle with mozzarella and bake until golden and bubbly, 20 to 25 minutes. Adapted from a recipe from Whole Foods Market
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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.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 1
TUESDAY, AUGUST 4
Manatee County-Wide Pet Adopt-A-Palooza – Aug 1-2. 11am-4pm Sat; Noon-4pm Sun. Featuring over 100 adoptable puppies, dogs, cats and kittens to choose from. All pets will be spayed or neutered, vaccinated and micro chipped. Flyball tournament demo, search and rescue demos, speakers, raffle drawings. Bring your licensed and leashed dog(s). Onsite vaccinations, micro chipping and sign up for low cost or free spay/neuter. Manatee County license tags for sale. Pet vendors offer products and services. Local trainers on hand with live demos, helpful tips and info. Free Admission/Parking. Bradenton Area Convention Center, One Haben Blvd, Palmetto. Escape-To-Sarasota.com.
Benefit Based Leisure Swimming – 10am-4pm Tues-Fri; 11am-5pm Sat-Sun. Adults who exercise three or more times a week report that they find it relaxing, can take it easy, get away from the hustle and bustle, get a chance to give their mind a rest and relieve tension, welcome the change from the pressures of work, get a chance to be with family & friends for a while. Port Charlotte Beach Park Pool, 4500 Harbor Blvd, Port Charlotte, 941-6290170.
Yoga for a Cause: A Yin Yoga Workshop to Benefit No Kid Hungry – 1-3pm. The Yoga Sanctuary is excited to welcome The Traveling Yogis, three friends from NY, traveling the U.S., raising money for No Kid Hungry (nokidhungry.org), a national organization working toward ending childhood hunger. No kid should grow up hungry in the U.S., but 1 in 5 does. Help support this great group of ladies on their path and join us for an inspired Yin yoga workshop that will incorporate both aroma and sound therapy. The Yoga Sanctuary, 112 Sullivan St, Punta Gorda. Info 941-505-9642, TheYogaSanctuary.biz. Eye Spy Venice! – The Venice Farmer’s Market and Venice MainStreet present a Scavenger Hunt through the City of Venice, for children of all ages, with spy maps, clues, learning events, trucks and prizes! Info, 941-484-6722, Escape-To-Sarasota.com. 2015 Summer Eco-Adventures – Aug 1-7. Are you interested in enrolling your child in an educational adventure through Florida’s fabulous ecosystems? CHEC’s full-day summer camp sessions include enriching outdoor exploration, handson activities, and are taught by college educated teachers. $100/Full week of all-day camps. Alligator Creek Preserve, Punta Gorda. Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center, Burnt Store Rd, Punta Gorda. Info & Registration, 941-575-5435, doris@ checflorida.org, checflorida.org. 2016 Pet Calendar Photo Contest – Suncoast Humane Society starts accepting photo entries for their 2016 Pet Calendar Photo Contest. Entries will be judged by an independent panel with one photo selected for the front cover, one for the back cover and each month will feature a Pet of the Month and four honorable mentions. All photos will be featured in the calendar. $25/Entry and receive a free calendar. Deadline for all entries is August 31. Info 941-474-7884, Humane.org.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 2 ECK Worship Service – 10-11am. This month: The Benefits of Working with a Spiritual Guide. Explore how developing a close relationship with the Inner Master of your choice can reveal and enhance your spiritual purpose in life. Free, Charlotte County Cultural Center, Rm I, 2280 Aaron St, Port Charlotte, 941-764-1797, Meetup.com/EckankarInSarasota.
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Benefit Based Leisure Swimming – 10am-6pm Tues-Fri; 11am-6pm Sat-Sun. Did you know that just immersing your body in water lowers your heart rate and blood pressure? Swimming benefits include: Reduced health-related costs, body weight, percent body fat, resting heart rate, blood pressure, long term risk of disease or death, levels of anxiety. Increased: Health & quality of life, personal satisfaction, interpersonal relationships, sense of self-worth and self-image. Oyster Creek Pool, 7001 San Casa Dr, Englewood, 941-6813743. South County Regional Park Pool, 670 Cooper St, Punta Gorda, 941-505-8686. AMC Creative Visualization – 6:30-8:30pm. Join us in this 10-week course and learn how to successfully incorporate the Law of Abundance into daily life. This course is designed to empower students to begin to make positive changes in all aspects of their lives. $200, $20/College Registration (one time). Angel Ministries College, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice. Rev Patricia Charnley, 941-492-4995, RevPat@AngelMinistriesfl.org, AngelMinistriesfl.org.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 5 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.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 7 Reiki Share – 7-9pm. An Invitation to Reiki Practitioners - All Levels are most welcome! Join in the fun of giving and receiving healing. $5/Love Offering. Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice. Rev Patricia Charnley, 941 492-4995, RevPat@AngelMinistriesfl.org, AngelMinistriesfl.org. Couples Weekend Getaway & Workshop – 7pm Fri-2pm Sun. Join Richard & Diana Daffner, authors of Tantric Sex for Busy Couples, for a romantic beach getaway. Bring greater joy, intimacy and passion to your relationship. Celebrate your love. Connect with your beloved on a soul level. $695/ couple. Siesta Key Beach, Sarasota, FL. More info, other dates & locations, brochure, 941-349-6804, IntimacyRetreats.com.
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SATURDAY, AUGUST 8 Psychic Fair – 10am-3pm. Are you searching, questioning and seeking answers? Choose from some of the best Intuitive Artists in the Area! See what your future holds! Free healing and refreshments. Private Readings $15/15 mins. Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice. Rev Patricia Charnley, 941-492-4995, RevPat@AngelMinistriesfl.org, AngelMinistriesfl.org.
MONDAY, AUGUST 10 Higher Ground Performing Arts Company Dance Intensive – Aug 10-14. 5:30-8:30pm. Technique Classes include Leaps and Turns, Jazz, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Ballet, Lyrical, Modern, Acro, Latin, Break Dance. $120. Mandatory for all Company Members. All Intermediate and Advanced Dancers invited. Higher Ground Performing Arts, 17353 Geddes Ave, Port Charlotte. Register, 941- 625-3622, HigherGroundPerformingArts. net/events-tickets.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 14 Documentary: The Singing Revolution – 7pm. Story of a peaceful revolution, sponsored by Venice Peace Project. Song was the weapon of choice when Estonians sought to free themselves from decades of Soviet occupation. Between 1987 and 1991, hundreds of thousands of Estonians gathered publicly to sing forbidden patriotic songs and share protest speeches, risking their lives to proclaim their desire for independence. While violence and bloodshed were the unfortunate end result in other occupied nations of the USSR, Estonians’ revolutionary songs anchored their struggle for freedom, which was ultimately accomplished without the loss of a single life. Donations accepted. Venice Holistic Center, 714 Shamrock Blvd, Venice. VenicePeaceProject.org. Friday Night Free Music – 7pm. With Ishmael Katz in the Gazebo. Bring your lawn chair or blanket. Free. Centennial Park, Downtown Venice. August Sarasota Events at Escape-to-Sarasota.com.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 15 Construction Madness, Open for Business – 11am-5pm. Come enjoy a fun-filled day at Fishermen’s Village! Shops, Boutiques and Restaurants will be featuring “Construction Madness” specials, celebrating center court renovations and remodel that is underway. Activities include: Metamasque Face Painting; Singers/Guitarists, Michael Hirst and Paul Cottrell; Jeff The Juggler; Fun Photo area; Construction themed Crafts; Fun Games for kids. Tour the Military Heritage Museum. Register to win great prizes! Live Radio Remote featuring Jeff Collins, The Golden Hippo! Activities & Parking are Free. 1200 W Retta Espl, Punta Gorda, 941639-8721, Fishville.com. Meditation – 1-3pm. Meditation is the key to communicating with Spirit. Learn more about meditation and reap the enormous benefits when you apply practical, effective meditation techniques each day. Go deeper! $20. Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice. Rev Patricia Charnley, 941-492-4995, RevPat@AngelMinistriesfl. org, AngelMinistriesfl.org. Looking Back, Moving Forward: Celebrating 55 Years – 6pm. Join the Charlotte Players as they kick off the evening with the 1960’s and roll through the decades with music, food and fun.
It’s a casual event, so grab your tie dye, shoulder pads, acid wash jeans or your favorite thing from the past 55 years and help them make an evening that will be talked about for the NEXT 55 years! $55/pp. Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center, Hibiscus Hall AB, 75 Taylor St, Punta Gorda. Sponsorships available. Info &, 941-255-1022, CharlottePlayers.org. Moonlight Movies – 7-10pm. Family friendly and fun, swim under the stars and enjoy watching a movie on a giant screen while in the pool! Movie begins at sunset. $3+tx/pp. Oyster Creek Pool, 7001 San Casa Dr, Englewood, 941-681-3743.
MONDAY, AUGUST 17 Reiki I Certification – 6:30-9pm. In this 2-day workshop you will receive Reiki Attunement, experience guided meditation and meet your Reiki Guides, and so much more! $75, $15 Reiki I Manual. Angel Ministries College, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice. Rev Patricia Charnley, 941-492-4995, RevPat@AngelMinistriesfl.org, AngelMinistriesfl.org.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 22 2nd Annual Touch a Truck Inside and Outside – 10am-2pm. The Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center is committed to improving the community through events and activities. Children and adults get a chance to Touch…Climb…Pretend… Explore a variety of vehicles, including big rigs, fire engines, police cars, race cars and construction equipment, provided and displayed by local businesses. Seeking sponsors/in-kind donations, entertainment/ performers, face painters, amusements such as inflatables or climbing walls. We would love to put your company name and logo next to one of these items. Sponsors choose level of participation. Free event. Hibiscus Hall ABC & Parking Lot, 75 Taylor St, Punta Gorda. Info, Sandy 941833-5443, sandy.darna@charlottefl.com. The Manasota India Festival – Noon-8pm. Sponsored by organizations from Manasota, Manatee and Sarasota Counties, featuring everything from food and shopping to live entertainment, presentations and activities native to India. Family-friendly, this year’s theme is Celebrating Dances of India. $3. Bradenton Area Convention Center, One Haben Blvd, Palmetto. Info Escape-To-Sarasota.com.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 23 Sarasota Craft Brew Fest – 5-9pm. Featuring unlimited delicious craft beer samples along with select food samples as well as non-alcoholic drinks and live music. $30/Advance; $35/Door, VIP $60/ Advance; $75/Door. Robarts Sports Arena, Sarasota County Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota. Info Escape-To-Sarasota.com.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 27 New Insights Into the Human Energy Field – 7-9pm. Participate in a voyage of discovery into new information about the human energy field with David Winfree, author of The Evolution of the Human Energy Field and Humanity’s Ultimate Destiny, with special attention to Archetypal Patterns which shape and influence each individual. DavidWinfree.com/highest. $10. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5
Friday Night Free Music – 7pm. Bring your lawn chair or blanket. Kat Crosby Band in the Gazebo in Centennial Park. Free admission. Downtown Venice. Info Escape-To-Sarasota.com.
59th Englewood Pioneer Days & Parade – Sept 5-7. Family fun and activities include Cardboard Boat Races, Photo Contest, Car Show, Englewood’s Got Talent, Diaper Derby, Fish-a-thon for kids, a chalk fest, Little Miss/Mr Pageant, and much more. Parade 9am, Sept 7, begins at St. Raphael’s Church, follows Olde Englewood Rd, turns onto W Dearborn St, proceeds to N McCall Rd, turning left. Dearborn St, Olde Englewood Village. Full schedule of events, EnglewoodPioneerDays. com/calendar.html.
Evening of Kirtan with Cheryl & Friends – 7-8:30pm. The practice of kirtan, or call and response chanting, originated in India over 500 years ago, and is a form of yoga, a way to open the heart and connect to the divinity within. Learn different mantras to activate the different energies of the Divine, and feel how they vibrate through your body, heart and mind to bring feelings of joy, love, and peace. Audience participation is encouraged: Just clap and sing along, or simply listen and feel the music and the magic. $10/Sugg’d Donation. Venice Holistic Center, 714 Shamrock Blvd, Venice. 941-323-8033, HolisticCenterVenice@gmail.com. Couples Weekend Getaway & Workshop – 7pm Fri-2pm Sun. Join Richard & Diana Daffner, authors of Tantric Sex for Busy Couples, for a romantic beach getaway. Bring greater joy, intimacy and passion to your relationship. Celebrate your love. Connect with your beloved on a soul level. $695/ couple. Siesta Key Beach, Sarasota, FL. More info, other dates & locations, brochure, 941-349-6804, IntimacyRetreats.com.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 29 Annual Back to School Splash Bash – 10am1pm. All ages, kids & parents. Kids should be accompanied by parents. Music, Giant Wild Rapid Slide, Inflatable Slip & Slide, Design a Backpack, Dunk Tank, Pool Games, Prizes, Watermelon, Lemonade and a BBQ lunch and ice cream truck will be on hand with items to purchase. Bring your swimsuit, towel, water shoes, sunscreen, lawn chairs and new or gently used children’s books. Lakewood Ranch YMCA Pool and Pavilion, 5100 Lakewood Ranch Blvd, Bradenton. Info 941-7571530, lwrcac.com/back-to-school-splash. Free Intro to Silva Method – 11am-1pm. Stressed out? For 50 years, the Silva Method has helped millions of people around the world relax, calm down and open up the untapped power of the mind. Silva grads welcome. Tami Patzer, Certified Silva Method Instructor. Angel Ministries College, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice. Rev Patricia Charnley, 941-492-4995, RevPat@AngelMinistriesfl. org, AngelMinistriesfl.org.
plan ahead MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 The Yoga Sanctuary’s Annual Yoga Month Challenge – September is National Yoga Month, designated by the Department of Health & Human Services, with festivities occurring across the country. Hundreds of studios, teachers and students join in. Come celebrate with The Yoga Sanctuary and discover the transformational power of a consistent yoga practice. Take The Yoga Sanctuary’s Challenge–20 yoga classes in 30 days–and see the difference for yourself! You’ll also be supporting the Peace River Wildlife Center. $89/month. 112 Sullivan St, Punta Gorda. Info & registration, 941505-9642, info@theyogasanctuary.biz, theyogasanctuary.biz.
The 12th Annual Venice Triathlon – Swim .25 mile; Bike 12.1 Miles; Run 3.1 Miles. Event is USAT sanctioned and open to individuals or relay teams. Awards are presented five deep in each division: Standard 5-year age groups (14 & under to 80+); Clydesdale & Athena (39 & under and 40+); Fat Tire (Male & Female); Relay Teams (2 or 3 people). Entry until Sept. 3, $85/Individuals, $160/ teams. Sept 4 & 5, $95/Individuals, $180/Teams. Packet pickup Sept 4, 3-7pm, at Real Bikes of Venice (581 US 41 Bypass, N Venice). Packet pickup begins again at 6am on race day. Sharky’s on the Pier, 1600 S Harbor Dr, Venice, then a closed course through downtown Venice. Info swflymca. org/programs/venice-triathlon.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 Fishermen’s Village Annual Fall Festival – 10am-4pm. Fun activities for the family, live music, exhibits and vendors. Interested in participating, contact Kathy Burnam, kathyb@fishville.com. Fishermen’s Village, 1200 W Retta Espl, Punta Gorda, 941-639-8721, Fishville.com.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 Comedy for a Cause 3 – 6pm. The 3rd Annual Improvisational Event is cast with community business leaders from Southwest Florida performing in a hilarious fundraising evening to benefit the Charlotte Players and its many programs. Audience ages 18 & over. $75/Dinner & Show; $25/Show only. Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center, Hibiscus Hall ABC, 75 Taylor St, Punta Gorda. Info & Tickets, 941-255-1022 or CharlottePlayers.org.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 Artwork of the Temples of Human Kind – 7-9pm. Introduction to Selfica, a discipline that involves the concentration and direction of vital and intelligent spiral energies into art forms, by Damanhur, Italy, Ambassador Crotalo Sesamo. Damanhur is a 40-year-old spiritual eco-community in northern Italy, known for the Temples of Humankind, called the “eighth wonder of the world.” $10. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 Atlantis and Other Ancient Civilizations – Sept 26-27. Sat 10am-6pm. Sun 1-8pm. This workshop will touch in on the mystery of the archeology of Atlantis knowledge which presents innovative approaches on how to tune into different time lines, including time travel, with Damanhur Ambassador Crotalo Sesamo. Damanhur is a 40-year-old spiritual eco-community in northern Italy, known for the Temples of Humankind, called the “eighth wonder of the world.” $270/By 9/11, $300/After. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com.
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ongoingevents sunday Beach Yoga for Everybody – 8:30-9:30am. Relax, breathe, stretch & greet the beautiful morning on beautiful Englewood Beach (N end). 941-473-0135. Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood. Lata528@gmail.com. LovingLightYoga.com. Silent Retreat – 10am-3:45pm. 2nd Sun. Venice Mindfulness Community. Come to all or part. Silent brown bag lunch Noon-1:30pm. Venice Holistic Community Center, 714 Shamrock Blvd, Venice, RSVP 941-615-7613. Chess – 11am-3pm. The Cultural Center of Charlotte County, 2280 Aaron St, Port Charlotte. Info & sign-up 941-625-4175.
monday Beach Yoga for Everybody – 8:30-9:30am. Relax, breathe, stretch & greet the beautiful morning on beautiful Englewood Beach (N end). 941-473-0135. Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood. Lata528@gmail.com. LovingLightYoga.com. Yoga Infused – 8:30-9:45am. A fun class, blending yoga fit & Pilates to build full body strength, improve posture, increase endurance, stamina & flexibility. $12; $55/5; $100/10. Loving Light Yoga Studio, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood. 941-473-0135. Lata528@gmail.com, LovingLightYoga.com. Paddleboard Lessons & Tour – 9-10:30am. Learn how to stand up paddleboard while exploring the barrier islands that surround the North Jetty. Great opportunity to see dolphins, manatees and other wildlife. $25. N Jetty, Nokomis. 941-234-4311. SUPEnglewood.com. Gentle Mixed Yoga – 9:30-11am. Gentle mixed level yoga. All levels and bodies welcome. $10. 238 W Tampa Ave, Ste 250, Venice. 941-468-0403. Sunlight Yoga – 9:30-11am Mon, Tues, Thurs. 5:45-7:05am Wed. With Debbie Downing. Gentle flowing hatha yoga for range of motion, balance, relaxation. Mixed level. $10. The Power of One, 238 W Tampa Ave, Venice Centre Mall/KMI Bldg, Rm 250. 941-468-0403. SunLightYoga@verizon.net. Gentle Yoga with Lata – 11am-12:30pm. A heart centered gentle flow of postures and deep stretching, breathing techniques and relaxation helping you to release tension and stress in the body and mind. $12/drop-in; $55/5; $100/10. Englewood Yoga Center, Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, 941-473-0135. Lata528@gmail.com. Sunset Yoga – 6pm. Relax, breathe, stretch & enjoy the sunset on beautiful Englewood Beach. Beginner friendly. Donation. Sponsored by Loving Light Yoga, Englewood Beach (N end). 941-4730135. LovingLightYoga.com. Evening Yoga Flow – 6-7:15pm. Join Lata in this evening slow flow vinyasa practice. Bring your focus to releasing stress and tension in the body and mind while opening the heart and freeing the spirit, slowing down from your busy day as we link breath and movement with grounding asana sequencing and longer held forward bends to relax and re-new. Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd,
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Englewood. 941-473-0135. Lata528@gmail.com, LovingLightYoga.com.
tuesday Beach Yoga for Everybody – 8:30-9:30am. Relax, breathe, stretch & greet the beautiful morning on beautiful Englewood Beach (N end). 941-473-0135. Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood. Lata528@gmail.com. LovingLightYoga.com. Yoga with Robert – 8:30-10am. Class includes gentle warms ups, yoga postures & relaxation, all levels are welcome. $12; $100/10; $55/5. Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood. 941-473-0135. Lata528@gmail.com, LovingLightYoga.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. Gentle Mixed Yoga – 9:30-11am. Gentle mixed level yoga. All levels & bodies welcome. $10. 238 W Tampa Ave, Ste 250, Venice. 941-468-0403. Deep Water Aerobics – 10-10:45am Tues & Thurs. Come join the fun. Some swimming ability required. $3, South County Regional Park, 670 Cooper St, Punta Gorda, 941-629-0170, 941-505-8686. Yoga/Pilates Flow, Level One – 11am-12:15pm. With Lata. Great for beginners and all levels. A flow of yoga postures and Pilates to strengthen, tone and stretch the entire body. $12, Packages available. 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood. 941473-0135. LovingLightYoga.com. Community Acupuncture with Dr Wald and Dr Dienes – 1-3pm. $35. Beach Life Wellness, 301 Albee Rd W, Nokomis. Space is limited. Reservations, 942-244-2006, BeachLifeWellness.com. Transformative Yoga – 5:30-6:45pm. The literal translation of Nidra is sleep. However, Yoga Nidra is a dynamic state, not the unconscious sleep of nighttime. It has the ability to alter your unconscious programming. You tap into creative powers beyond the ego-mind and have access to healing on physical, mental and emotional planes. First class complimentary, $10 thereafter. Venice Holistic Community Center, 714 Shamrock Blvd, Venice. Register, Facilitator Rick Rabalais 941-539-9149. Yin/Restorative Yoga/Yoga Nidra – 6-7:15pm Alternate Tues. Yin/Restorative Yoga with the healing crystal bowls or yoga nidra, (guided meditation) with bowls. Relax, open the body & mind. $15. Englewood Yoga Center/Loving Light Yoga. 941-473-0135, LovingLightYoga.com.
wednesday Beach Yoga for Everybody – 8:30-9:30am. Relax, breathe, stretch & greet the beautiful morning on beautiful Englewood Beach (N end). 941-473-0135. Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood. Lata528@gmail.com. LovingLightYoga.com. Yoga for Well-Being – 8:30-10am. Guided meditation, breathing exercises, sun salutations and an energizing flow of postures with a guided relaxation. All levels welcome. $12; $55/5; $100/10.
www.peaceriverna.com
Loving Light Yoga Studio, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood. 941-473-0135. LovingLightYoga.com. Gentle Yoga Flow – 11am-12:30pm. A flow of postures designed to increase strength, flexibility and the flow of vital energy. Ending with a guided deep relaxation to restore body, mind, and spirit. Beginner friendly. $12; $55/5; $100/10. Loving Light Yoga Studio, E Englewood. 941-473-0135, Lata528@gmail.com. Debbie Downing Yoga – 5:45-7:15pm. Gentle mixed level yoga. All levels and bodies welcome. $10. 238 W Tampa Ave, Ste 250, Venice. 941-468-0403. Sunset Yoga – 6pm. Relax, breathe, stretch & enjoy the sunset on beautiful Englewood Beach. Beginner friendly. Donation. Sponsored by Loving Light Yoga, Englewood Beach (N end). 941-473-0135. LovingLightYoga.com. Square Dancing – 7-9pm. The Cultural Center of Charlotte County, 2280 Aaron St, Port Charlotte. 941-625-4175.
thursday Kundalini Yoga/Gong Meditation – 8-9:30am. A blend of postures, mantra & gong meditation offering a technology that aligns with the ever-evolving universe. All levels. $15; $52/4; $88/8. Moving Toward Stillness Wellness Center, Osprey. 941-812-8695. Beach Yoga for Everybody – 8:30-9:30am. Relax, breathe, stretch & greet the beautiful morning on beautiful Englewood Beach (N end). 941-473-0135. Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood. Lata528@gmail.com. LovingLightYoga.com. Yoga Infused – 8:30-9:45am. A fun class, blending yoga fit & Pilates to build full body strength, improve posture, increase endurance, stamina & flexibility. $12; $55/5; $100/10. Loving Light Yoga Studio, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood. 941-4730135. Lata528@gmail.com,LovingLightYoga.com. Zumba/Yoga Class with Allison – 9-10am. Feel young & energetic on Venice Beach. Dance & relax. Donations. W Venice Ave, on the Beach, Venice. VeniceInformationCenter.com. Englewood Farmers’ Market – 9am-2pm. Find a wide range of fruits, organic vegetables, fresh baked German breads, gourmet French foods, fresh seafood, bonsai plants, orchids, garden plants, kettle corn and much more! Olde Englewood Village, W Dearborn St, Englewood, EnglewoodFarmersMarket.org. Gentle Mixed Yoga – 9:30-11am. Gentle mixed level yoga. All levels & bodies welcome. $10. 238 W Tampa Ave, Ste 250, Venice. 941-468-0403. Deep Water Aerobics – 10-10:45am. Some swimming ability required. $3, S County Regional Park, 670 Cooper St, Punta Gorda. 941-629-0170, 941505-8686. Awakening Spirit Kundalini Yoga – 11am12:15pm. Awaken spiritual energy with breath, movement and meditation, with Jana and Hannah. $10. Venice Holistic Community Center, 714 Shamrock Blvd, Venice. Register 941-488-1828. Gentle Yoga Flow – 11am-12:30pm. A flow of postures designed to increase strength, flexibility and the flow of vital energy. Ending with a guided
deep relaxation to restore body, mind, and spirit. Beginner friendly. $12; $55/5; $100/10. Loving Light Yoga Studio, E Englewood. 941-473-0135, Lata528@gmail.com. Open Gym Basketball – 5-8pm. Drop in & enjoy a game of indoor basketball. Shoot some hoops. Play 3 on 3, 5 on 5 or a pickup game with friends. Times subject to change. $2/player. Tringali Recreation Ctr, 3460 N Access Rd, Englewood. Gentle Restorative Yoga – 6pm. Unwind the body with this gentle restorative class. All levels. $15/ first class free. Moving Toward Stillness Wellness Center, Osprey. 941-266-6962. Restorative/Therapeutic Yoga – 6-7:15pm. With Healing Crystal Bowls. Therapeutic yoga flow & restorative postures. Release tension in the body and mind. Pre-registration required. $15. Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood. 941473-0135. LovingLightYoga.com.
friday Beach Yoga for Everybody – 8:30-9:30am. Relax, breathe, stretch & greet the beautiful morning on beautiful Englewood Beach (N end). 941-473-0135. Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood. Lata528@gmail.com. LovingLightYoga.com. Yoga for Well-Being – 8:30-10am. Guided meditation, sun salutations and an energizing flow of postures with a guided relaxation. All levels welcome. $12; $55/5; $100/10. Loving Light Yoga Studio, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood. 941-4730135, LovingLightYoga.com. Gentle Yoga with Lata – 11am-12:30pm. A heart centered gentle flow of postures and deep stretching, breathing techniques and relaxation helping you to release tension and stress in the body and mind. $12; $55/5; $100/10. Englewood Yoga Center, Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, 941473-0135. Lata528@gmail.com.
saturday Beach Yoga for Everybody – 8:30-10am. Relax, breathe, stretch & greet the beautiful morning on beautiful Englewood Beach (N end). 941-473-0135. Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood. Lata528@gmail.com. LovingLightYoga.com. Yoga with Robert – 8:30-10am. Class includes gentle warms ups, yoga postures & relaxation, all levels are welcome. $12; $55/5; $100/10. Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood. 941473-0135. LovingLightYoga.com. Punta Gorda Farmers Market – 8am-Noon. Voted the ‘Best Small Market in Florida’ and 15th in the USA, we have a large number of vendors offering fruits and vegetables, dried fruits and nuts, Italian bakery, fresh homemade pasta, kitchenware, cupcakes, beef and fresh seafood, fresh citrus, jewelry, candles and soaps, dip mixes, Florida arts and crafts, cheese, French bakery, baguettes and olives, homemade pies, orchids, organic produce, personalized pens, kettle corn, coffee beans and drinks, native and exotic plants.Taylor St (across from Historic Charlotte County Courthouse), Punta Gorda. 941-391-4856. Info@PGDowntownMerchants.com.
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.
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www.peaceriverna.com