December 2014 Sarasota Natural Awakenings by Natural Awakenings of Sarasota

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

34 saCRed aCTivisM Love in Action Can Change the World

by Judith Fertig

38 siNGiNG THe

woRld awake

by Tom Kenyon

40 ToXiN-FRee

BeauTY saloNs

Pure Pampering Feels Natural and Safe

by Sarah Tarver-Wahlquist

42 CaN-do kids

Changing Our World at Any Age

by Ellen Sabin

44 HaPPY FeasTiNG To all

Tasty Rituals that Deepen the Holiday Spirit

by Lane Vail

54 oPeNiNG uP

To MiRaCles

Gabrielle Bernstein on Creating More Happiness by April Thompson

60 FiNd YouR

FiTNess sTYle

Workouts that Suit Your Personality

by Wendy Worrall Redal

55 HYMN To liviNG iN sileNCe

by Robert Rabbin

56 PeT Bed-Buddies

Is Sleeping Together Healthy?

by Erik J. Martin

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11 27 29 32 38 40 42 44 54 55 56 60 61 73 77 80

newsbriefs healthbriefs globalbriefs community spotlight healingways greenliving healthykids consciouseating fitbody inspiration naturalpet wisewords consciousgiving calendar classifieds resourceguide

advertising & submissions How To adveRTise To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 941-564-0885 or email Publisher@ nasrq.com. Deadline for ads: the 15th of the month. ediToRial suBMissioNs Email articles, news items and ideas to: Publisher@nasrq.com. Deadline for editorial: the 5th of the month. CaleNdaR suBMissioNs Please submit all listings through nasrq.com. Deadline for calendar: the 12th of the month.

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ReGioNal MaRkeTs Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 941-564-0885. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

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727 Commerce Drive • Venice, FL 34292 natural awakenings

December 2014

letterfrompublisher

can’t believe the holidays are almost here! This is an exciting time for me, since I’m from the Northeast and am used to drastic changes in weather and the snowfall that covers the pine trees, giving them that pretty glow. I get to see deer in the woods and watch them search for food, while I walk my little Yorkie, Sophie. I have to confess that I decided to choose a wintry scene for the cover since I wanted to bring a little of my hometown in Connecticut to the Sarasota area. This issue is an exciting one, as it hits on one of my favorite indulgences – pampering at the salon. Check out “Non-Toxic Beauty Salons” by Sarah Tarver-Wahlquist. Several local spas are advertising in this issue, including Bliss Salon, Angela’s Pure Salon and Spa, as well as Epiphany Spa, Beach Life Wellness and Starflower Spathecary. With all the holiday planning, we need to take a little time for ourselves, and it’s a great way to get a gift card while you’re there. Speaking of gifts, I can think of nothing better than to shop locally for unique gifts that support the businesses, services and artists in our community. We’ve provided a few ideas to get the wheels turning and the ideas flowing, as you complete your holiday shopping. Please don’t forget our furry friends. They love the holidays, too – as long as there’s not TOO much going on! This issue features an array of information on pet events and care. Ellen Sabin gives us a delightful article on involving children in the pleasures of giving, and in learning to show appreciation for the love and gifts they receive. It’s a way to start young readers on the path of conscious living and to get them involved in the spirit of the holidays. And let’s always remember those, who are less fortunate, down on their luck, struggling with medical or personal issues, or alone. A gift of your time to a local nonprofit or a donation to your favorite charity in a loved one’s name could be the greatest gift of all.

contact us Publisher Janet Lindsay Managing editor Suzi Harkola editor Mary-Elizabeth Schurrer Calendar editor Cheryl Hynes design & Production Susan McCann - Erin Cass web development Stephen Warne social Media Manager Stephen Warne

To contact Natural Awakenings sarasota / Manatee edition: 941-564-0885 publisher@nasrq.com

In celebration of the season, I send best wishes to our readers across the Suncoast.

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.

Printed on 100% recycled paper Natural Awakenings is printed on 100% recycled paper with soybased ink.

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www.nasrq.com

Happy holidays!

Janet Lindsay, Publisher

coverartist

newsbriefs Johnson Joins Cat Depot

aithe Johnson has joined the staff at Cat Depot as Volunteer and Education Director. Johnson was executive director for Kids’ Care Connection in Minnesota, a nonprofit, providing high-quality and nationallyaccredited early childhood education programs and tuition scholarships for low-income families. She will manage the Cat Depot volunteer program, including the addition of a teen service program, and increase educational opportunities for the community. Cat Depot is open Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Handicap accessible.

Location: 2542 17th Street, Sarasota. For more information, visit CatDepot.org or call 941-366-2404.

Weekend of the Blues at Third Annual Bradenton Blues Festival

owntown Bradenton will buzz with blues concerts and outdoor festivities, December 5 through 7. “We wanted to extend the terrific excitement already built up around the festival,” says Johnette Isham, executive director of Realize Bradenton, the organization powering the Bradenton Blues Festival and Bradenton Blues Weekend, along with multiple community partners and sponsors. “The Bradenton area is a hotbed of celebrated blues musicians and blues bars, and we want to amplify the blues buzz! This year, blues fans can again spend the entire weekend grooving on the blues.” She’s also excited about a new Blues in the Library initiative, coordinated by the Central Library. Gates open at 10 a.m. The music starts at 11 a.m., and ends at 8 p.m.

Locations vary. For information or to buy tickets in advance, visit BradentonBluesFestival.org. To view festival video online, visit www.bit.ly/bradblues.

Animal Rescue Provides Care for Beloved Cats Left Behind

t. Francis Animal Rescue is filling a need in the Venice community by accepting cats, whose owners can no longer care for them. The program, called In House Adoption, provides shelter and care, but also works to keep the pet owners in touch with their beloved pets. Volunteers write the letters as though they were from the pet itself. The previous owners also receive a framed photograph of the cat at the St. Francis shelter. More than 100 volunteer adoptees are involved in the program. St. Francis Animal Research is seeking additional volunteers to meet the continuing need. Financial donations are also appreciated to support the no-kill shelter.

Location: 1925 S Tamiami Tr., Venice. Call 941- 492-6200 or visit StFranciisARFl.org.

Nature’s Round the Tree Tracy Herrmann Cover artist Tracy Herrmann’s wildlife portraits portray the tender side of nature, such as the woodland creatures gathered around a snow-draped fir in the cover image, Nature’s Round the Tree. Herrmann lends her signature soft, gentle styling to animal subjects that include bears, fox, deer, birds, otters and big cats, while drawing from her studies in zoology and natural history to create realistic renderings. “I enjoy exploring, spending entire afternoons observing and sketching animals for new concepts, and just watching families and kids. Kids are natural artists and keen observers,” says Herrmann. “Sharing the richness of our natural world through my art brings me great joy and satisfaction.” Herrmann has done wildlife illustrations for such clients as the Seattle Zoo and several national parks, including the Grand Canyon, Yosemite and Yellowstone. Herrmann also illustrates children’s books; her first is Dabbling Doezee, a story of friendship between two ducks. The artist donates a percentage of each piece sold to wildlife and parks conservation programs. A former member of the Guild of Natural Science Illustrators, Herrmann lives and works in Seattle, Washington. View the artist’s portfolio at FineArtAmerica.com/profiles/ 1-tracy-herrmann.html.

natural awakenings

December 2014

newsbriefs James Beard Celebrity Chef Tour Returns to Sarasota

or the third consecutive year, the James Beard Foundation’s Celebrity Chef Tour will return to Darwin’s on 4th at 6:30 p.m., December 3. Guest celebrity chefs, James Baselici of Louie’s Modern in Sarasota, Paul Anders of Sweet Basil and Mountain Standard in Vail, Colorado, and Steve Phelps of Indigenous in Sarasota, and host celebrity chef Darwin Santa Maria will each prepare a course of the meal. “Sarasota is now a culinary destination, and events like this solidify that reputation,” says chef Darwin Santa Maria. “Personally, I’m humbled that the James Beard Foundation would ask us to host the event for the third time, and excited to share the kitchen with two great local chefs, James Baselici and Steve Phelps, plus a favorite of mine from Colorado, Paul Anders.” The guest chefs offer a broad range of accolades and experience: Baselici specializes in contemporary American cuisine and is executive chef at Louie’s Modern, which earned Best New Restaurant from both Florida Trend and SRQ Magazine under his leadership in 2014. Baselici’s own restaurant, Catch 22, specializes in local Florida seafood and earned Best New Restaurant in the 2005 Palm Beach Zagat guide. Paul Anders is classically trained and five-star tested in the kitchens of the Four Seasons Hotel in Newport Beach, the Brown Palace Hotel in Denver, and the Broadmoor Resort in Colorado Springs. Chef Anders’ experience running four and five-star kitchens prepared him to become executive chef and partner at both Sweet Basil and Mountain Standard in Vail, Colorado. Steve Phelps opened Indigenous in 2011, and since then has honed his reputation as one of the region’s most inspirational and educational chefs, earning a James Beard Foundation semifinalist nomination for Best Chef, South in 2014. Originally from Cleveland, Phelps’ talents blossomed under the training of his uncle and later at the flagship Hyde Park Steakhouse before he moved to Sarasota, helping spark interest in sustainability locally sourced seafood and more. Darwin Santa Maria was born in the jungles of Peru and continued his journey at Johnson & Wales Culinary College before beginning a professional career at the renowned Michael’s on East in Sarasota. Since then, Santa Maria was named the 2012 Best Peruvian Chef in America by the Peruvian Embassy in Washington, one of the 2013 Best Chefs America. He received an Award of Excellence from Tumi USA in 2014. The Celebrity Chef Tour began in 2004 with a mission to bring the unique experience of dining at New York City’s historic James Beard House to cities around the country. Past guest celebrity chefs have included Jacques Pepin, Emeril Lagasse, Pascal Oudin and Diego Oka. Chefs collaborate to create a themed menu and provide an interactive dining service. Location: Darwin’s on 4th, 1525 4th St., Sarasota. Call 941-343-2165 or visit DarwinsOn4th.com for pricing and additional information.

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Florida Dog Guides Training Center

lorida Dog Guides for the Disabled is a unique, nationally recognized, nonprofit organization, teaching the residents of Florida – with their own dogs – to meet the special needs created by a physical, mental or emotional challenge. Most of the dogs in the program, in fact 95%, have been rescued from shelters throughout Florida. According to Executive Director Arleen Dickenson, the dogs are evaluated for their temperament and sensitivity to hearing, balance and emotional issues. “We make our connections between people in need and dogs through our website and word-of-mouth.” She continues, “We screen. We ask questions, including ‘What kind of a dog do you want? Do you want a Golden Retriever or a mix?’, and then we interview and fully qualify the potential owner before we relinquish the dog.” The dogs get 24 weeks of intensive training and become AK certified before placement. Then, they are trained again in their new human’s home. “We place dogs that are good at hearing, for the phone or door bell ringing, as well as service dogs, who can help with many functions, and dogs who can be a ‘step support’ with a harness that will free the owner from a cane or walker. We have therapy dogs, part of a certified program, for people in Manatee County,” she says. Location: 2016 27th St. E., Bradenton. For additional information, contact Florida Dog Guides at 941-748-8245 or visit FloridaDogGuidesFTD.org.

‘Seeking Eldorado: The Subjects that Choose Me’ by Julie Trigg

he holiday season kicks into gear at The Women’s Resource Center of Sarasota, when they host the works of local award-winning artist Julie Trigg. The opening takes place December 4, from 5 to 7 p.m., in the Selby Room. The public is invited, and refreshments will be served. The show extends through January 29, 2015, and can be seen most weekdays from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. “Seeking Eldorado,” mostly oils on canvas, includes landscapes, cows, horses and dogs. Trigg doesn’t hesitate to express her dark side. “Most successful artists, whether they’re painters, poets or musicians, have a dark side they visit now and then,” says the artist. “It comes down to painting what I know, what is going on around me, how I interpret life and thoughts or observations I carry around in my head.” Trigg describes her work as “abstracted realism with a touch of impressionism.” Trigg has won many awards since the early ‘80s, and her work has been exhibited in New York, Pennsylvania, Georgia and Florida. Her paintings are in many private and public collections, including the State Capitol in Tallahassee. The Dabbert Gallery included her work in a show they curated for Art Center Sarasota entitled “Artists Who Made Sarasota Famous,” and in 2014, her work was on display in the annual Creators & Collectors Tour. Location: Women’s Resource Center, 340 S Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. Call 941-3661700 or visit TheWomensResourceCenter.org for more information.

Mark Your Calendar for the Women’s Spiritual Retreat

his Women’s Commuter Retreat is offered for new attendees only. Mark your calendar now for March 27–29, at DaySpring Retreat Center in Ellenton. This weekend brings together like-minded women in spiritual pursuits, where they will experience spiritual practices and meditations, sound healing, a Gong Meditation and a Sacred Geometry Initiation. It consists of a multimedia lecture and slide presentation with group spiritual exercises. Labyrinth walks with sound toning complete the practices. The practices taught during this weekend can be used for a lifetime. They are easy to learn and adapt to personal use. Previous attendees have said this retreat has given them a sense of purpose that helped them to define their path in the world. Others said they were uplifted, encouraged and now believe further in themselves. The Retreat is for commuters only to DaySpring Retreat Center in Ellenton, 1.5 miles from the outlet mall. The retreat size is limited to 20 women. Cost for three days includes lunches, a bound book and canvas tote bag. Come and enjoy a weekend along the banks of the Manatee River on 96 acres of park-like setting.

Omega Cure Extra Strength Now Available

xperts say you need to take 8 to12 capsules of fish oil per day to experience health benefits. Few people are able to swallow that number of pills, especially considering the Experts say you need ‘urpy’ reminders that 8–12 capsules a day. We find that accompany fish oil capsulehard use. to swallow. To make it easier for people to get a full dose of omega-3, Omega3 Innovations has launched Omega Cure Extra Strength. Each singleserving Omega Cure Extra Strength vial provides 3000 mg of EPA/DHA from ultra-fresh, full-spectrum cod liver oil that has no fishy taste or smell. Omega Cure Extra Strength takes the guesswork out of the omega-3 dosing equation. Each single-serving vial contains 3000 mg of EPA/DHA, the omega-3 requirements your body needs to make a clinical difference. In addition, each vial is scientifically designed to prevent oxidation, ensuring Omega Cure Extra Strength’s superior standard of freshness and clinical effectiveness is sealed into every convenient dose, providing measurable results for joint, brain and eye health. Besides containing an effective dose of omega-3 fish oil, Omega Cure Extra Strength also features record-low oxidation levels, is travel-friendly, and is one of the only omega-3 products on the market to contain over 60 different naturally occurring fatty acids.

Research shows cod liver oil can ease your brain, heart and joint issues...if you get 2-3000 mg daily of EPA/DHA (omega-3 fatty acids) found in 8 to 12 average capsules. (Urp.) Instead, try 3 lightly flavored teaspoons of ultra-fresh, pure Omega Cure®. It’s one healthy habit that’s easy to swallow.

Order online: Omega3innovations.com Order by phone: 866.840.4811 727 Commerce Drive • Venice, FL 34292

For additional information and to order, call 866-414-0188 or visit Omega3Innovations.com. See ad, page 9.

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newsbriefs

World Renowned Yoga Teachers Visit Sarasota Area

ing in the New Year with four incredible workshops led by yoga teachers Alan and Sarah Finger of ISHTA Yoga in NYC. They will guide you through the chakras (energy centers), help you set an intention to start your new year and lead you on an exploration of the more subtle aspects of yoga. Participate in one workshop or the entire weekend of December 27 and 28. Location: Charlotte Harbor Event Center, 75 Taylor St, Punta Gorda. For more information about this weekend event, visit TheYogaSanctuary.biz or call 941-505-9642.

USF Sarasota-Manatee Application Deadline Nears

igh school students, interested in applying to USF Sarasota-Manatee for the fall 2015 semester, should take note of the priority application deadline, January 2, 2015. Admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis as applications are completed and all supporting documents are received. The priority application deadline also includes consideration for USF merit-based scholarships, based on an applicant’s high school GPA and ACT/SAT scores. For more information, contact Sean Grosso at 941-359-4264 or sgrosso@sar.usf.edu.

Rena Greenberg Featured on The Doctors Show

he Doctors Show recently featured Kathy Pieper, who lost 120 pounds with Sarasota hypnotherapist, Rena Greenberg’s, Gastric Bypass Hypnosis. Greenberg, who has offered weight loss and stop smoking hypnosis in hospitals throughout Florida since 1990, simulated the gastric bypass surgery for Kathy to help her lose excess weight. After the gastric bypass hypnosis, Kathy stated on The Doctors Show that she could only eat small portions and was eating about one third of the amount of food she used to eat. When asked by Dr. Travis how it worked, Greenberg explained, “The subconscious part of the mind doesn’t know the difference between what’s real and what’s imagined. When told in the hypnotic state that her stomach is smaller, and less food is more satisfying, Kathy responded.” Greenberg has a hypnotherapy practice in Sarasota and Bradenton, and does hypnosis sessions for people all over the world, via phone and Skype. She is a nationally board-certified biofeedback therapist, certified hypnotherapist and Hay House and McGraw-Hill author, who has been featured in over 150 TV, magazine and newspaper stories. Greenberg can be reached at EasyWillpower.com. 14

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Pethub, Inc. Launches Signal Tag to Help Lost Pets Get Home Fast

etHub, Inc., the leader in innovative tools to get lost pets home fast, announces the launch of its revolutionary new product, the Signal Tag™, featuring Bluetooth technology. At a time when one in three pets will go missing at some point in their lives, the Signal Tag’s technology provides a more advanced tool to get pets home safely and quickly. The versatile, durable tag is water resistant, with Bluetooth technology, a 3D motion sensor and a battery life of up to two years. The Signal Tag is available in white (with additional colors to be available at a later date) and includes the following features and services for pet parents: • An easy-to-use range finder for up to 500 feet • A motion-tracking device • A “Crowdsource” app for finding your pet • A quick-activating flashing light to help locate pets at night • A “virtual fence” with location-based alerts • Links to a free online PetHub.com profile • A free 24/7 found pet hotline The Signal Tag comes with the complimentary online Basic PetHub Service and app, so that pet parents can easily set up a customized pet profile with privacy level choices. This service is especially important because it provides rescuers with access to critical medical and emergency contact data, essential if a pet is found in need of medical care. The optional premium service for all PetHub products – including the Signal Tag – provides PetHub’s Community “Amber Alert” System, as well as scanned tag notifications with GPS mapping. The Signal Tag can be ordered for $69.95, plus $2.95 shipping and handling, at Pethub.com/SignalTag.

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newsbriefs WESCO Designs Water Features at The Mall at University Town Center

uilding on Sarasota’s long-standing tradition of excellence in architecture, The Mall at University Town Center (UTC) was designed to be a beautiful, sustainable and high-tech addition to the Sarasota landscape. WESCO Fountains, Inc., of North Venice, designed and installed the four fountains that add ambiance and beauty to the upscale mall. The water features include a 30’x10’ stainless steel basin with three light boxes that emerge from the Miami Beach pebble-filled basin. The 80’ perimeter of the Interior Entry Fountain, the smallest of the four water features, is a weir that spills over into a steel grate, creating an infinity edge. A U-shaped basin surrounds the glass elevator in the Grand Court. Like the Interior Entry Fountain, this stainless steel basin is filled with Miami Beach pebbles, and the perimeter creates an infinity edge, but what makes this fountain the undeniable focal point of the Grand Court is the six jets that “dance” to a choreography of color-changing LED lights. An Elevated Reflection Pool has been installed outside Saks Fifth Avenue. This 5’x50’ stainless steel basin was welded onsite to create one solid piece, and, like the two interior fountains, the 110’ perimeter has an infinity edge, and the basin holds 1.5 tons of Miami Beach pebbles. The elegant design of the exterior water features is made possible by two underground equipment vaults with paver set hatches that house the feature and filter pumps, filtration systems, dual-stage electronic water level controls, and custombuilt control panels. The interior fountains are controlled from a state-of-the-art equipment room that houses equipment similar to that of the underground vaults, and a chemical room where acid and chlorine levels are continually monitored and automatically adjusted.

Locations: UTC is located at I-75 and University Parkway in Sarasota. WESTCO Fountains is located at 3440 Technology Dr., North Venice. Call 941-484-8224 or visit WESCOFountains.com.

Unity Church Presents ‘Holiday Traditions’

nity Church is stepping out to offer each faith tradition a chance to be recognized and able to share their views in a safe yet challenging way. It is open to the public, and everyone is encouraged to bring their own questions relating to the topic. Once a month on a different Thursday, Unity offers a panel discussion on various religious and political opinions. There is a local special guest each time to discuss a certain topic. On December 4, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., a Christian, Atheist, Muslim, Jew and special guest Dr. Bob Waxman, President of the Open Center of Sarasota, will be discussing “Holiday Traditions: Fact or Fiction?”. This topic will cover the search for truth in what Moses, Jesus, Muhammad and an Atheist would say, regarding the unique perspectives from various world and religious views. The moderator is Garin Hoover, who is experienced in getting the panel to express their views. At the end of the hour, there will be time for audience participation. There is no charge for this event. Location: Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd, Sarasota. www.nasrq.com

Acupuncture Facelift Seminar with Dr. Anna

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r. Anna Baker, DOM and founder of Faces by Dr. Anna, will present a seminar on changing the course of facial aging with her muscle tightening acupuncture face and necklift on December 10 at 2 p.m. Her technique reverses aging in the muscles of the face and neck, returning the original features. Dr. Anna has a database of over 450 people, and she will show pictures of results for different ages and face types. A nationally board-certified Doctor of Oriental Medicine, Anna Baker has been practicing in Sarasota since 1998. She has developed a specialty in a muscle tightening acupuncture face and necklift with no needles used on the face. Up to three treatments can be done in one day with a 10-treatment minimum. After treatments are completed, a one or two treatment touch-up is suggested every 18 months to maintain the lift. Dr. Anna’s work has been nationally televised, and she was voted Sarasota’s favorite anti-aging practitioner for 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013.

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Starflower’s Festive Holiday Party

t’s that time of year again! Starflower invites you to the annual Festive Holiday Party on December 1, from 6 to 8 p.m. In appreciation of another successful year, we invite you to partake in healthy nibbles, drinks and holiday cheer. This event takes place during the Burns Court (South Pineapple Ave) 2nd Fridays neighborhood extravaganza.

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Location: 415 South Pineapple Ave., Sarasota. Call 941-554-4292, email Star@ Starfl ower.com, or visit Starfl ower.com for more information.

Embark on Holistic Holiday at Sea

et sail aboard the luxurious, eco-friendly, Italian MSC Divina on the 12th Holistic Holiday at Sea cruise for life-transforming discussions on the benefits of a plant-based diet, plus a host of other health and wellness activities with a community of 1,700 fellow passengers. The 35 expert presenters and teachers will include Ann Crile Esselstyn, known for her life-changing plant-based meals and author of the new book, The Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease Cookbook, a current bestseller on Amazon.com; her husband Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn, whose groundbreaking research and dietary advice found the book’s 125 recipes; plus Dr. T. Colin Campbell, Dr. Neal Barnard, Dr. Michael Greger, Colleen Patrick-Goudreau, Chef AJ (Abbie Jaye) and Bhava Ram. More than 130 classes cover food preparation, yoga, Pilates, meditation and other topics related to natural wellbeing. Cruise passengers will dine on non-dairy, vegan/natural cuisine, expertly prepared under the supervision of Mark Hanna, an internationally known natural food chef. Evenings bring opportunities to socialize in the Golden Jazz Bar and enjoy nourishing time in the Aurea Spa. The cruise will take place March 14–21, 2015. Passengers depart from and return to Miami and dock en route at Falmouth, Jamaica; Georgetown, Grand Cayman Islands; Cozumel, Mexico; and Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas. For more information or to register, call 1-828-749-9537 or 1-800-496-0989, email Info@HolisticHolidayAtSea.com or visit HolisticHolidayAtSea.com. See ad, page 53.

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natural awakenings

December 2014

newsbriefs ‘The Angels Rejoice,’ with Musica Sacra Cantorum

I Venice as a ‘Wild Frontier’

he exhibit “Journey into the Wild Frontier” is on display at Venice Museum and Archives through January 21. Through 100 images, objects, documents and maps, the exhibit explores what life was like for early settlers, who made their way to the Venice area from 1867 to 1921, and celebrates their pioneering spirit. The exhibit is free and open to the public on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the first and third Saturdays, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Location: 351 S. Nassau St., Venice.

Snyder to Guide Meditation Sessions

t is likely that angels will rejoice at other times during the month of December, but Musica Sacra Cantorum, Sarasota’s only choral ensemble dedicated solely to the performance of sacred music of all traditions, is presenting “The Angels Rejoice” at 7 p.m. on December 8, at Church of the Redeemer. The Musica Sacra Cantorum Chorus, comprised of the professional vocal ensemble, Voices, singing with the best volunteer singers in the region, is known for its innovative Christmas programming. Respecting the sacred spirit of the Christmas season, “The Angels Rejoice” features some of the best choral music by the greatest masters. While time-tested, these works are not frequently heard because of the crowded field of pop-oriented seasonal favorites more commonly programmed in holiday concerts. Now performing in the visually and acoustically inspiring sanctuary of Church of the Redeemer, concerts by Music Sacra Cantorum offer a sanctuary of their own. “The Angels Rejoice” offers a meditative musical experience set aside from the hustle and bustle of the average holiday season weekend. Location: Church of the Redeemer, 222 S. Palm Avenue, Sarasota. Both subscriptions and single tickets can be purchased at MusicaSacraCantorum.org. For more information, please call 941-405-7322.

Perlman Music Program Sets Schedule

he Perlman Music Program-Suncoast has an expanded schedule for the 20142015 season. Winter Residency will be December 18 to January 3, featuring 20 free musical events. Visit PerlmanMusicProgramSuncoast.org for more complete schedule and more information.

eth A. Snyder, Clinical Hypnotherapist, announces Thursday evening guided meditations at The Natural Healing Arts Center. Seats are limited. She is also offering a powerful, Hypnosis for the Holidays threesession special package to help prepare you for the joyous but sometimes stressful holiday season. Hypnotherapy provides safe, simple success to attain the life you truly want and desire. Location: The Natural Healing Arts Center, 2030 Bee Ridge Rd., Sarasota. Reserve at BethSnyderHypnosis.com or call 941-228-8010.

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

Om with Me: A Vocal Workshop with Erinn Earth

rinn Earth, musician, yogini and meditation teacher, will offer another uniquely insightful class called Om with Me: A Vocal Workshop, on December 7, from 12:15 to1:30p.m. What is Om, really? What does it look like? What does it sound like? What does it feel like? What does Om have to do with spiritual advancement? How does it come to my rescue in meditation? How does it relate to what the yogis call “Naad” sound? Join Earth for this interactive, vocal and informative workshop guaranteed to deepen your understanding of Eastern spirituality. Explore the significance and seriousness of mantra chanting. Learn techniques for tapping into the sacred Naad current, an internal spiritual sound substance that nourishes us in meditation. Feel free to bring a singing bowl, chime, bell or a small gong. We will learn how these meditation tools relate to Om sound and how they deepen our relationship with supernatural sounds. Location: Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd., Sarasota. Call 941-284-9563 for information on cost and registration. www.nasrq.com

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natural awakenings

December 2014

newsbriefs December Schedule for Expressive Arts Florida

xpressive Arts Florida Institute schedule includes a variety of creative programs for adults and children. Located in the artist colony of Towles Court, all programs are designed to develop creative life skills for personal, professional and social change. Expressive Arts encompasses visual art, movement, writing, music, drama and other creative processes that combine and interact to bring about growth, healing and wellness. It does not require art training or “talent” in art and is more about the process of being creative than the product that results. Expressive Arts has many benefits, including self-awareness, relaxation, self-esteem, mindfulness, balance, joy and healing. Established in 2007, Expressive Arts Florida Institute was founded on a firm belief in the positive power of every person’s creativity. The organization is committed to the practice, education, advocacy and expansion of Expressive Arts in the community and beyond. Its programs offer opportunities for vital creative expression to diverse people of all ages and life circumstances, fostering wellbeing, community building, and positive social and global change. Faculty/partners are: Kathleen Horne, MA, LMHC, REACE; Victoria Domenichello-Anderson, MA, REACE; and Tamara Teeter Knapp, BA, Certified K-12 Art Teacher. Classes and Workshops for December ART AS A HEALING PRACTICE with Kathleen December 5, 12, 19, from 9 a.m. to noon. This is an expressive arts process that embraces the positive power of creative work/play to change lives. SATURDAY STUDIOS: ART PLAY FUN FOR FAMILIES with Tamara December 20 from 10 a.m. to noon. A new offering for families, this is a chance for children and their parents to have fun creating art together. MONTHLY MANDALA CLUB with Kathleen December 20, from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Exploration of “sacred circles,” a primal pattern in nature found in a wide variety of spiritual traditions across cultures. Location: 200 S Washington Blvd, Suite 1 in the Towles Court Pavilion, north side of Adams Lane in Sarasota. For more information on cost or to register, call 941-366-9595, visit ExpressiveArtsFlorida.com, or email Institute@ ExpressiveArtsFlorida.com.

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Sarasota/Manatee Edition

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Garden of the Heart Yoga Welcomes Todd Norian Back to Sarasota

odd Norian is returning to the Garden of the Heart Yoga Center to lead a fourday Yoga Therapy Training for yoga teachers and experienced yoga students, December 11 through14. This 28-hour program is unique in Sarasota, as it is part of his Ashaya Yoga 300-hour advanced teacher training certification. Norian teaches that every cell in the body is programmed for healing and joy. Unfortunately, unconscious movement patterns and self-limiting beliefs may keep you from fully accessing this power. Through life-affirming yogic philosophy and the precise alignment techniques of Ashaya Yoga, you’ll learn how to transform pain and limitation into freedom and joy. Each day of this intensive includes guided asana instruction and training in Ashaya Yoga, tantric philosophy, therapeutic exercises, demonstrations, skillful observation, hands-on techniques and basic anatomy. During this training, you’ll gain greater knowledge of specific alignment techniques that address, heal and prevent common aches and pains, including ankle and knee pain, hamstring tears, Piriformis syndrome, sciatica, lower back and SI joint dysfunction, shoulder and neck strain, rotator cuff injury, tennis elbow, carpal tunnel syndrome and more. Location: Garden of the Heart Yoga, 2888 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota. For more information on cost and to register, call 941-341-9781, email Cheryl@ GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com or visit GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com for details and more information about Todd Norian.

natural awakenings

December 2014

newsbriefs Tech Trek Deadline Nears

ecember 15 is the deadline for seventh grade girls to be nominated by their math and science teachers for next year’s Tech Trek camp, sponsored by the American Association of University women (AAUW). According to Shirley Reid, camp director, “AAUW Tech Trek has expanded to 10 camps throughout the U.S. We are proud to offer this opportunity to our young Florida girls, entering eighth grade.” Last year, over 170 girls throughout Florida were nominated by their teachers, and 40 were chosen.

Information on nominating girls by the December 15 deadline to attend Tech Trek camp is available for parents and teachers. Contact Pat Weber at 941-445-4359 or email AAUWPat@gmail.com.

Energy Muse Jewelry Now Available at Pixie Dust

ixie Dust is now carrying Energy Muse jewelry. This special energetic crystal jewelry is handcrafted in the USA. Each piece is purified, aligned and activated in a sacred healing room for a minimum of 48 hours. The healing room vibrates with sound, light, crystal energy and sacred geometry. The coins on many of the Energy Muse pieces are genuine Qing Dynasty pieces between 100 and 300 years old. The Energy Muse clasp of the jewelry symbolizes balance, expansion and global consciousness. The Quartz Crystal on either side of the clasp works to constantly charge and recharge the energy of the crystals. Energy Muse jewelry packaging includes a scroll that shares the spiritual aspects of the crystals and an affirmation to help you set your own intention. Many well-known celebrities and athletes, including Jason Mraz, David Beckham and Kate Hudson are wearing this stunning jewelry!

Location: Pixie Dust Metaphysical Boutique, 1547 Main St., Sarasota. Call 941-366-6325 or visit DustyPixie.com for more information.

Natural Awakenings’ Branded Products Make Wonderful, Healthy Gifts and Stocking Stuffers Order Online Today!

NAWebstore.com or call 1-888-822-0246

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

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Celebrate the Return of Light

he Northern Hemisphere is cloaked in the shortest daylight hours on December 21, the Longest Night. For three days, the sun appears to stand still before starting its ascent from darkness into light and longer days. The spiritual community of Southwest Florida commemorates this seasonal change, much as our ancestors did thousands of years ago, with a ceremony honoring the sun. They gathered at major ceremonial sites, like Newgrange in Ireland for the Winter Solstice. On December 21 at 4:30 p.m., you can participate in this ritual at the South Lido Beach State Park on the Gulf Side. Gather to celebrate the return of light with a Wiccan-inspired ceremony, conducted by Wiccan Patricia Walsh. She will be joined by Laura Kiley on flute, Patricia Cockerill, who leads the meditation, and Jewell Cochara and the Venice Frame Drummers, who will “drum” attendees to the circle. These talented individuals provide the musical accompaniment for international dancer Tahja, who dances the rebirth of the sun. Attendees are invited to bring their intentions for the rebirth of the sun onto the planet. They will be collected as individual votive candles are lit, commemorating each one. The intentions will then be taken by children and released into the Gulf. Every year, donations are collected on behalf of the Mayor’s Feed the Hungry Program. A $10 donation feeds a Christmas meal to one person. Donations are tax deductible if checks are made payable to the “Mayor’s Feed the Hungry.” Attendees are asked to bring a pencil or pen to write their intentions. Bring a battery-operated votive candle and a flashlight. Bring a chair or blanket to sit on. Men and children invited.

For more information on the Women’s Meditation Circle, contact Jo Mooy at 941-355-1414 or email jomooy@gmail.com.

Astrology Forecasts Coming to Starflower Spathecary

Elysian Fields Presents December Guest Readers

herry Lord, a Psychic Intuitive and Trance Channel, can answer your questions, both business and personal, and help you on your spiritual path. She is the guest speaker on December 5, from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Deborah Chadwick, an Intuitive and Healer, uses playing cards as a communication tool for her guides and angels. Learn more at her session on December 11, from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

ndorsed by some of the most exciting and popular celebrities, Bridgett Walther’s astrology forecasts have been the guiding light for thousands of people over the years. Her high success rate is attributed to her accuracy in uncovering useful, timely information with humor and compassion in some of the most sensitive issues of life. Using her intuition and the art of astrology, she encourages, guides and listens to others’ concerns. Walther has written and recorded daily, weekly and monthly forecasts, available throughout the world, and writes astrological advice and numerological columns for national and international magazines. On December 2, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., Walters will release her book, Harness Astrology’s Bad Boy: A Handbook for Conquering Pluto’s Tumultuous Transit. In this wickedly funny guidebook, world-renowned astrologers, Hazel Dixon-Cooper and Cathleen Bridgett Walther, will show you how to use this unique time to overcome fear, guilt, regret and self-punishment, and find your place in the cosmos. Their in-your-face advice and step-by-step instructions will help you unlock the heroic part of your soul and flourish in every aspect of your life. You will emerge from this Pluto transit stronger, wiser, and more in control of your life than ever before.

Location: Elysian Fields 1273 Tamiami Trail South, Sarasota. Call 941-361-3006, email Tanya@ElysianFieldsOnline.com, or visit ElysianFieldsOnline.com for cost and more information.

Sarasota Businesses Co-Create Love Circles

hese events are designed to gather our community and create a sacred space for healing. Together, we will invoke the most powerful energy source we are born and gifted with – love. At our Love CirclesTM, we will come together to share our struggles, diseases, pains, suffering and life obstacles, practice a guided meditation and offer it all to the Purification Love FireTM (Violet Flame), and finally, receive support from like-minded people, who honor, appreciate, welcome, accept and support all of us for who we are and our divine light. This powerful event, created to bring us in touch with our true selves, heal from various aspects of our lives and experience transformation with the support of our community. December 3, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., Crystal Cave, Sarasota; December 4 from 7 to 8:80 p.m., Ionie Healing Center and Raw Food Café, Sarasota; December 9, 7 to 8:30 p.m., Starflower Spathecary, Sarasota; December 11, 7 to 8:30 p.m., Beyond Healthy Beyond Beautiful, Sarasota. Love donation accepted. One third of all donation will go to verified charities in our community. BYO cushion or Yoga mat to sit on the floor.

Love Circles are led by Lucia Gabriela, creatrix of the Liberating Inner Beauty Revolution. Visit LiberatingInnerBeauty.com. For more locations and times visit BH-BB.com.

Location: Organic Spathecary, 415 South Pineapple Ave., Burns Square, Sarasota. Visit Starfl ower.com or phone 941-554-4292 for more information.

natural awakenings

December 2014

petbriefs Shop, Adopt, Be Merry at the 4th Annual Jingle Paws Jubilee

he 4th Annual Jingle Paws Jubilee and Cat Depot’s first PawPurr’s Walk will be held at a new, bigger venue – Payne Park in Sarasota. The more centralized location was selected not only to accommodate more vendors and attendees, but also to provide a walking path around the park for a brand new fundraiser that will kick off the jubilee – The 1st Pawpurr’s Walk, hosted by Cat Depot. Held at 11 a.m. on December 7, the 1st Pawpurr’s Walk will benefit Cat Depot by raising money for homeless, abandoned and injured cats and kittens in the rescue, adoption, education and resource center’s care. Participants will have the option to walk either 1/2 mile or 1 mile (twice around the park), and both dog walkers and cat supporters are welcome to join in the fun! The cost to participate in the walk is $20 per person. Each registered walker will receive both a T-shirt and goodie bag. Children 10 years of age and under can walk for free if accompanied by a paid and registered adult. Registration will be held the morning of the event between 10 and 10:45 a.m., or walkers can register online at CatDepot.org. Immediately following the walk, Jingle Paws Jubilee’s

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Sarasota/Manatee Edition

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festivities will begin at noon. In addition to 28 local groups with adoptable animals and 60-plus vendors, there will be musical entertainment, agility demonstrations, animal communicators, pet blessings, a caricaturist, a holiday costume contest hosted by The Doggy Diva, photos with Santa taken by internationally published pet photographer Connie Summers, and so much more! Baja Boys Grill, Southern Smoke BBQ Catering and Goodfella’s Café will be providing food at the event. The Purple Belle Ice Cream Truck will also be back, serving up its refreshing and oh-so-sweet treats! For the first time in Jingle Paws Jubilee’s four-year history, cat and kitten adoptions will be a major part of the festivities. “This year, the move to Payne Park in downtown Sarasota has provided an opportunity to invite our local animal groups to bring cats and kittens to Jingle Paws Jubilee for adoption,” says Lynn Rasys, director of communications for Cat Depot. “Adjacent to the field where all of the outdoor festivities will take place is a community building that Cat Depot has secured for the day, so that we can showcase the cats and kittens that are available for adoption in our community. The kitties will be indoors in an air-conditioned and quiet facility, away from the often-stressful sounds of barking dogs.” Adoptions of cats and kittens will be held from noon to 4 p.m. during the event. To make finding the “purr-fect” feline friend easier than ever, all of the animal groups bringing cats and kittens have agreed on set prices. Kittens will be available for $30 each, and cats will be available for $20 each. Exotic cats will be priced individually. At press time, the animal groups that will be bringing kittens and cats to Jingle Paws Jubilee for adoption include Cat Depot, E.A.R.S. Rescue & Sanctuary, Humane Society of Sarasota County, Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue, St. Francis Animal Rescue and Venice Cat Coalition. Additional animal groups are expected to sign up to participate before the day of the event. Shelley Thayer, executive director of Cat Depot, has been organizing the cat and kitten adoptions for the event. “Our goal is to find homes for 100 cats in just four hours,” she says. “For anyone, who is looking to adopt a cat or kitten this holiday season, Jingle Paws Jubilee will be the place to be! We will have both Sarasota and Manatee county nonprofit organization with cats and kittens available for adoption – all under one roof. It’s going to be fantastic!” Parking and admission to Jingle Paws Jubilee is free. All attendees, however, are asked to bring a bag or cans of unopened cat or dog food, treats or toys, which will be distributed to the animal groups in attendance following the event. Open Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Handicap accessible. The Cat Depot Supply and Gift Store is open daily, specializing in top brands of wet and dry cat food, litter, calming products, treats and unique gifts for cats and cat lovers. Cat Depot Location: 2542 17th Street, Sarasota. For more information, go to CatDepot.org.or call 941-366-2404. Jingle Paws Jubilee Location: Payne Park, 2050 Adams Lane, Sarasota.

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natural awakenings

December 2014

olistic H FOR PETS

petbriefs Holistic for Pets has Moved

olistic for Pets has recently relocated to 5411 Fruitville Road in the Crossing Plaza at the corner of Honore and Fruitville. Holistic for Pets offers the area’s largest selection of natural, human-grade pet foods, dry, canned, raw and freeze-dried. Grain-free, hypo-allergenic foods are also available.

The healthiest pet foods and treats! The Area’s Largest Selection of Natural, Human-Grade Pet Foods Over 43 brands and hundreds of choices. Your pet will love it or we will take it back! Dry Kibble • Canned Raw • Freeze Dried Grain- Free & Hypo-Allergenic Foods

DECEMBER Special Offer:

We’ve moved!

Visit us at 5411 Fruitville Road Lots of Holiday Gifts for Pets & Pet Lovers!

Come visit us in our new store and get a free Welcome Bag full of samples and goodies! *while supplies last 5411 Fruitville Road Sarasota, FL 34232

941-378-4367 5770 Ranch Lake Blvd East Bradenton, FL

941-753-PAWS (7297) www.holisticforpets.com 26

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

For more information, visit HolisticForPets.com or call 941-753-2797.

Bear Creek Veterinary Alternatives Welcomes New Doctor, Expands Hours

ear Creek Veterinary Alternatives has hired Dr. Sarena von de Heyde and is expanding their hours to better accommodate clients. New hours will include Wednesdays and some additional Saturdays. With the addition of Dr. Sarena, the clinic will also be open for earlier appointments at 8 a.m. on Tuesday and Wednesday. The clinic offers holistic care for chronic diseases, such as cancer, allergies and arthritis. Well puppy exams, acupuncture, nutritional education, vaccine titers, dentistry, including nonanesthesia dentals for those, who are not good candidates for anesthesia, are offered, as well as palliative care, Healing Touch for Animals® and cold laser treatments. Herbal therapy, homeopathy, glandular medicine and diagnostics round out a treatment plan, especially when conventional treatments have not been effective. Dr. Sarena was born and raised in rural Zimbabwe, Africa. From an early age, her grandmother taught her traditional and holistic medicine. She took care of all the animals’ health care needs on the family farm, as there was very little veterinary care available. She came to the United States in 1989, and attended the University of Georgia, College of Veterinary Medicine, and did her surgery internship at Ocala Equine. She brings her love of holistic care along with her years of experience in traditional and emergency medicine. Bear Creek Veterinary Alternatives is a holistic specialty practice located in Sarasota. Jaime Gonzalez DVM, CVA is a holistic care expert, and his approach to veterinary care combines 24 years of conventional, emergency and alternative medicine modalities. Susan Gonzalez offers Healing Touch for Animals. Location: 7509 S Tamiami Trail. For more information, please visit BearCreekSarasota. com or call 941-312-6825.

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healthbriefs

Calcium Supplements Raise Risk of Brain Lesions

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

Knotweed and Hawthorn Outperform Lovastatin in Trial

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

Cell Phones and Router Microwaves Stress Plants

vidence of the effects of wireless technologies on human health continues to be controversial, with agreement on results remaining elusive. Now a new study published in the Journal of Plant Physiology found that humangenerated microwave pollution can potentially be stressful to plants. Researchers from Romaniaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Estonian University of Life Sciences tested three common garden plantsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;parsley, celery and dill weed. They exposed each to the types of microwave radiation equivalent to those produced by cell phones and wireless routers. Then these radiation-exposed plants were compared with identical plants not exposed to the radiation. The scientists noted that the irradiated plants had thinner cell walls; smaller chloroplasts (cellular sites of photosynthesis); smaller cell mitochondria (centers of energy production); and greater emission of volatile compounds, particularly monoterpenes and green leaf volatiles, which are protective, life-promoting components of the plantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; essential oils. The effects were stronger for the type of radiation produced by wireless routers. While essential oil production overall was increased by the frequency of the microwaves produced by cell phones, it was decreased by the frequency emitted by the routers.

natural awakenings

December 2014

healthbriefs

Hospice Care Adds Months for Cancer Patients

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

Hip Fractures Decrease on Weekends and Holy Days

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

Mistletoe Extract Benefits Pancreatic Cancer Patients

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

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

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Nutritional Supplements Aid Regularity

onstipation, a common health concern, may cause more than just discomfort. Chronic constipation can lead to problems with the epithelial lining of the intestines that secrete and absorb nutrients, and even colon cancer, according to a 2012 study conducted by the American College of Gastroenterology. Passing overly dense fecal waste can also aggravate hemorrhoids. According to Steven Frank, founder of Nature’s Rite, an herbal remedies company, two key nutrients can contribute to a solution. For most people, ingesting 1,000 milligrams of Vitamin C per day through food sources and/or supplementation is sufficient to soften stools. In addition to oranges and a variety of citrus, good sources of Vitamin C include strawberries, chili peppers, red and green bell peppers, kale, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower and broccoli. Still, many need something more to accomplish the goal. Magnesium, critical in supporting muscle movement, as well as heart health, may aid with peristalsis, the involuntary contractions of the intestines and colon that move fecal matter along. Magnesium also helps with the production of lubricating mucus. Magnesium food sources include beans and nuts, fish, avocados, bananas, yogurt, dark leafy greens and dark chocolate. A daily dose of 500 milligrams of magnesium is usually sufficient for good health and regularity. For more information, call 888-4654404 or visit NaturesRiteRemedies.com. See ad, page 19.

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

Bye-Bye Birdie

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

Cultural Roots

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

Youth Activists

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

natural awakenings

December 2014

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globalbriefs Bamboo Bamboozle

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

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natural awakenings

December 2014

communityspotlight

“Peru’s cuisine is probably the best kept food secret in South America. A bounty of Pacific seafood, a fiendish enthusiasm for chiles and a confluence of Latino, Native American and even Japanese and Chinese influences make for a remarkable virtuosity.” Food & Wine Magazine

Enjoy a Taste of Peru

at Javier’s Restaurant and Wine Bar by Suzi Harkola

ucked away in a small shopping plaza on Midnight Pass Road, just a half block from beautiful Crescent Beach on Siesta Key, is one of Sarasota’s best-kept secrets. Javier’s Restaurant and Wine Bar offers a festive, fun atmosphere full of bright colors and the scents and flavors of Peru and South America, with plenty of options for American cuisine, as well. The focal point of the room is a stunning, full-wall handpainted mural, depicting a typical Peruvian village scene. Fresh plants hang from the ceiling and are strategically placed throughout the restaurant to give an open-air feeling. A cozy, romantic wine bar is nestled in the back corner, showcasing New World wines and imported Peruvian beers. Enjoy homemade Sangria or an invigorating Sour, lightheartedly referred to as “Peruvian Lemonade” by Javier himself – perfect for a special date night. Javier and Mary Arana have operated Javier’s on the Key since 1988. Javier is from Lima and began his American journey in Miami. His parents ran restaurants in Lima, and it’s clear that the joy of creating and serving outstanding food is in his blood. Mary shares that passion, – she makes all the desserts – and the two virtually live at the restaurant. Mary notes, “We are a sustainable restaurant, featuring local, organic products with vegetarian and gluten-free choices always available. Our food is 90% organic, and we source our vegetables locally whenever possible.” Saturday and Wednesday mornings are spent at the Sarasota Farmers Market and the Phillippi Estate market, and they also shop the Englewood Farmers Market. Global Organics of Sarasota provides products they can’t source locally. Javier’s serves dinner only, but the menu is extensive. Everything is made in-house with the best of ingredients. Fresh fish, fresh veggies, homemade desserts – you can’t get much better than that. And the clientele agrees. Reviews from TripAdviser and Yelp are glowing, and long-time regular customers are now 32

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

bringing in children and grandchildren. “Of course, during Season, it begins to get a little crazy,” Mary says with a laugh. A special four-course South American tapas dinner is a huge hit. Items change weekly, and the cost is only $26. The satisfying meal includes appetizer, salad or soup, entrée and dessert. Just a few examples of the menu should tempt your taste buds. For a large plate, try Anticuchos Mar y Tierra, a Peruvian style surf and turf. Chargrilled skewers of beef tenderloin and Gulf shrimp, served with a black bean and rice combination, yuca frita, platanos fritos and a side of spicy cilantro chimichurri sauce start your meal and beg for more. Vegetarians will love the Veggie Saltado, a stir fry of onions, garlic, mushrooms, spinach, peppers and tomatoes seasoned with soy sauce, cumin and red wine, served with Peruvian seasoned rice. For fresh seafood, the Emerald Scallops can’t be beat. Tender, large sea scallops in a light basil cream sauce make the perfect entrée. Small Plates are equally as tempting. Dig in to the Ceviche de Pescado, Perú’s most famous appetizer. This is a traditional fish ceviche prepared with Peruvian Corvina, red onions, garlic, lime juice, fresh cilantro and a little aji pepper. Or, perhaps the Jalea de Mariscos draws your eye, a classic Peruvian dish. This seafood combo of fried shrimp,

scallops, fish, calamari, mussels and yucca is served in the traditional style on a bed of organic lettuce and topped with marinated red onion salsa and lime wedges. One of Javier’s most popular small plates is the Calamares Salteados, Javier’s special, “naked” calamari, not breaded or fried, flash sauteed in extra virgin olive oil, fresh garlic and scallions, topped with garlic aioli and yuca frita. Desserts are made by Mary in-house. A few of the favorites include Flan de Coco, Pionono, Chocolate Decadence and Key Lime Trifle. Perhaps the most popular is Bananas Foster, made to order by Javier. The bananas are sauteed in a rich caramel sauce, then flambeed in dark rum and creme de banana, served over vanilla bean ice cream. Everything possible at Javier’s is recycled. Take-home boxes are made from sugar cane, not Styrofoam. “It’s twice as expensive, but it’s our way of life,” Mary says. And the environmental emphasis doesn’t stop at the restaurant. Mary takes vegetative scraps home for composting in her garden. Dinner is served Tuesday through Saturday, from 5 to 9 p.m. – with the addition of Sundays during Season. Gift certificates are available. Javier’s Restaurant and Wine Bar is located at 6621 Midnight Pass Road in Sarasota. Call 941-349-1792 or email MaryAllenArana@outlook.com for more information or to inquire about catering or take-out.

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

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

Hallmarks of Spiritual Intent

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

he butterfly, a universal symbol of transformation, reminds us that becoming our best selves is an ongoing process. Yet these delicate, fluttering creatures are suffering a decline, especially the vivid orange and black monarch butterflies that depend on milkweed flowers for sustenance during their migration to and from Mexico and Canada. “When I heard about the monarch butterfly crisis, I also noticed that I had milkweed vines all along my back fence,” says Karen Adler, a Kansas City, Missouri, gardener. “In years past, I 34

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

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

www.nasrq.com

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

“When you put spirit and activism together, you realize that all actions are connected to spirit. It makes you think about your duty in every instance—from how you treat people throughout your day to how you treat the environment. It becomes a satisfying way of living.” ~ Carla Goldstein daily spiritual practice on the road to spiritual activism. He suggests, “Start with a short prayer that aligns you with the pure deep love that is longing to use you as its instrument in the world.” Options include prayers from many of the world’s spiritual traditions shared in Dass’ book; a free download is provided at StewardshipOfTheSoul.com. Interconnectedness – Just as everything in the universe is connected by the simple act of being, like-minded people can connect to do good in the world. Sacred activists pursuing their own spiritual paths need to work with others, according to Harvey. “They form empowering and encouraging networks of grace—beings of like heart, brought together by passion, skill and serendipity to pool energies, triumphs, griefs, hopes and resources of all kinds. When people of like mind and heart gather together, sometimes miraculously powerful synergy can result.” Harvey has found that groups of six to 12 people become the most efficient and productive, whether joined together through a profession (such as physicians on medical missions), a passion for animal rights or the environment, or a strong sense of social justice. Knowledge – Knowledge, both inward- and outward-seeking, is another key to doing good for all. Carla Goldstein, JD, chief external affairs officer at the Omega Institute for Holistic Studies, in Rhinebeck, New York, and

cofounder of its Women’s Leadership Center, used her interest in women’s empowerment issues as a springboard to spiritual activism. “For the first 20 years of my professional life, I focused on public policy and politics,” she says. “But something was missing in the rhetoric of taking care of each other.” Practicing yoga and meditation and receiving support during a personal health crisis prompted what she terms “an awakening understanding of a gap between personal change and systems change.” Goldstein came to question her own “rugged individualism” versus the interconnectedness she felt when people took care of her. “Can we actually move towards integrating these two ideals?” she asked herself. Knowledge about issues is readily available from experts and organizations that experts recommend; she observes, “The big question is: What is needed for us to be of help?” Sometimes listening and understanding can be powerful. Under the auspices of the Omega Women’s Leadership Center, Goldstein invited women on both sides of the reproductive rights issue to meet in 2005. They had been part of the Public Conversations Project in the Boston suburb of Watertown, Massachusetts, begun after medical staff members were killed and wounded at an area women’s health clinic providing abortions in 1994. “Women from the divided commu-

nity initially came together to tell their stories,” Goldstein relates. “Over time, they developed a deep love for each other. Nobody changed their positions, but they did change how they interacted with one another.” They experienced a shift from emotional and verbal turbulence to, if not agreement, feelings of peace and understanding. Since then, the project has grown to facilitate such conversations in 38 states and 15 countries (PublicConversations.org). Positive Action – While many thorny issues take long-term, dedicated efforts to be resolved, others only need smaller individual or collaborative actions for positive outcomes. For Mark Nepo, a New York City poet, philosopher and author of the New York Times bestseller, The Book of Awakening, kindness is the force behind positive action, no matter how modest at first. “Kindness reveals kinship. It gives us connection to everything greater than us and everything else that is kind in the universe,” he says. “I think it’s powerfully effective, yet it’s such a small thing.” Nepo is active in Bread for the Journey, an international nonprofit that encourages community grassroots philanthropic projects that generate microgrants. One involved a small town in northern New Mexico that sought to improve the lives of local teenagers when the town’s elders wanted to open a youth center as a positive alternative to the drug scene. Just before the center was scheduled to open, the project ran out of money for required floodlights, so Bread for the Journey funded them and the center opened. “Within a few years, the whole culture shifted,” reports Nepo. This small contribution made a big difference to the whole community. Once awakened and nurtured, spiritual activism can become an omnipresent part of our lives. Says Goldstein, “When you put spirit and activism together, you realize that all actions are connected to spirit. It makes you think about your duty in every instance— from how you treat people throughout your day to how you treat the environment. It becomes a satisfying way of living.” Judith Fertig is a freelance writer from Overland Park, KS.

natural awakenings

December 2014

Your Whole Business Benefits from Healthy Marketing

How Hands Uplift Hearts by Sandra Murphy

Advertise in

Natural Awakenings’

January Health & Wellness Issue To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

941-564-0885 36

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

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

People

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

the front desk, read to preschoolers and do fundraising.

Animals

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

Environment

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

Send Your Nominations for Nattie Awards Now

Thousands of ballots are cast each year by readers for their favorite companies, practitioners and places of interest in the Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte County area. The top five nominated companies in each category of natural living are honored by recognition in Natural Awakenings. Please vote for your choice online at NASRQ.com. The Natties are highly valued. They represent what you, our readers, respect, and expect, in service, products and comfort care. This is your opportunity to show your appreciation for their hard work. Categories are listed below. Please enter your favorites and just click your mouse for a vote or votes of your choice. We are proud to bestow a Nattie on the companies, large and small, that deserve recognition. Results will be posted in the January issue.

1. Favorite Business of the year 2. Favorite Eco-friendly Business of the year 3. Favorite Pet Friendly Business of the year 4. Favorite Holistic M.D. 5. Favorite Acupuncture/TCM Practitioner 6. Favorite Chiropractic Physician 7. Favorite Natural Dentist 8. Favorite Natural Healing Center 9. Favorite Natural Womens’s Health Specialist 10. Favorite Anti-Aging Practitioner 11. Preferred School for Holistic Medicine 12. Favorite Energy healer 13. Favorite Holistic Practitioner of the year

14. Favorite Spiritual center 15. Favorite Yoga studio/sanctuary 16. Favorite weightloss program/Center 17. Favorite yoga instructor 18. Favorite Eco-friendly salon/Spa 19. Favorite Nutritionist 20. Favorite place to shop for Natural Foods 21. Favorite farmers’ market 22. Favorite place to buy Nutritional supplements 23. Favorite enlightened Book and Gift store 24. Favorite Eco-friendly cleaning service 25. Favorite Skin Care professional 26. Favorite holistic veterinarian 27. Favorite animal hospital 28. Favorite natural pet food store

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natural awakenings

December 2014

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Article adapted from the film, Song of the New Earth

hen I was a Music and sound lights up like a Christmas youngster, I tree. I’d worked in brain clearly remember are the language research for about 13 years reading a book, The Boy and architecture when, while meditating, I Who Sang to the World, received new information of the cosmos. about brain geometry that although I later learned it doesn’t exist. I read it in I recognized as the geomsome other realm of consciousness and etry of consciousness in its relationship that’s what I became. to sound and emotion. I sang to the world, sun, moon, I understood that if I taught this to stars and all life. I sang in church and others, I would observe rapid change choirs and later took up guitar and and improvement in brain function piano. One day, a visitor to our house and creativity, which took place when said, “You’re going to heal many people I conducted beta testing at three sites. in this world with that voice.” One day, I was in California doing a When I attended the University of workshop when these sounds just came North Carolina, I discovered that neuro- through me. That’s what spawned my physiology could be used as a language current sound work. to explain mystical experiences. The I become like a tuning fork to the whole time I was engaged in scientific information that is coming to me. In training, I was also going deeper into shamanism, this is called being the the mysticism of the East, the yoga hollow reed. I step out of the way. In of India, Taoism of China, Egyptian terms of brain frequencies, I go into alchemy and Tibetan Buddhism. I was an alpha state, in which I can attend practicing every meditation from every to what I need to do vocally, but for tradition, sometimes for five hours a that moment surrender my voice to the day. Without realizing it, I was changenergy. ing my neurophysiology. When I work shamanically with Brain research shows that when drums, animal spirits come through my we experience pure sound without voice, as do beings from other tradilanguage, the right side of the brain tions. I feel like a doorway, or a chauf-

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feur looking in the back seat to see who I’m driving. I live in two diametrically opposed worlds. I’m logical in how I look at things and am fascinated by brain neurology. Then there’s this other side that’s off the charts. I never know when the whales are going to appear. As I operate in an altered state, I can see humpbacks psychically approaching until one of them enters my energy field. Subjectively, I become as large as a whale, at the same time I’m aware of my physical body. I have dual realities, and then the whale sounds emanate through me. In a visionary experience on my 40th birthday, the question arose, “Will you sing the song of the new Earth?” I believe that we’re not going to survive much longer as a species if we don’t change how we are living, and that’s what my work is about. Many people are having spiritual emergences, yet we don’t, as a culture, have a place to harness its potential. What I do with groups is a type of sound healing, working collectively with the energy of a large gathering. Each person responds in ways

unique to them, breathing into some inner emotion and making a sound that matches how it feels inside. Something happens with people that attend these events. It’s about the transformation and beauty of being able to step into the unknown to commune with a knowledge and intelligence that’ll sing through my voice. Together, we’ll see what will come forward. A major message I’ve received is that if we are to survive, we must raise the feminine out of the ashes created by millennia of cultural traditions and have the male and female meet together, not one above the other, but in equality, and with that union, create a new world. The boy who sang to the world has grown up to sing a space that allows people to create their hopes and dreams into existence.

scientifi cally study neuropsychology and psychoacoustics. He teaches Tibetan Buddhism, Taoism, Hinduism, Egyptian high alchemy and esoteric Christianity. He has authored Brain States, many CDs and the new documentary about his journey, Song of the New Earth (SongOfTheNewEarth.com).

Psychologist and musician Tom Kenyon is trained in Ericksonian medical hypnosis and whole brain learning. His 25 years of practicing psychotherapy led to the formation of Acoustic Brain Research to

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December 2014

greenliving

Toxin-Free

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

hen clients walk into New York City’s Swing Salon, they may be surprised by what they don’t smell—the range of chemicals usually wafting around hair salons. That’s because the owners have decided to use only natural and organic products. While many people may assume that all salon hair and body treatments are regulated and safe, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has no authority to require companies to test cosmetic products for safety, due to loopholes in the Toxic Substances Control Act. So, people are being exposed to dangerous toxins through salon products like nail polish, hair color processors and hair straighteners. Be aware that while labels of overthe-counter body care products are required by law to list ingredients, with the exception of the chemical soup often hidden under the term “fragrance”, the loophole for salon products is large. Jamie Silberberger, with the Women’s Voices for the Earth’s National Healthy Nail & Beauty Salon Alliance, reports, “Products sold for professional use in spas and salons are not required to be labeled with ingredients.” Fortunately, healthy alternatives are available, either by patronizing a green salon or using natural beauty treatments at home. 40

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

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

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

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

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

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

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

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natural awakenings

December 2014

n It’s nice to help strangers, but you can also do little things close to home that’ll make life easier and better for your family. You can call your grandma to say hello, help your mom or dad with the dishes or play a favorite game with your little sister or brother.

healthykids

Can-Do Kids Changing Our World at Any Age

n You can also use your own special talents to help others. If you are a good cook, bake a healthy holiday treat to bring to someone that is feeling sick. You can read out loud a story to a younger child. If you’re strong and have lots of energy, you can help your neighbor take out the trash or do other household chores.

by Ellen Sabin

n You can have fun and make an even bigger difference by doing good things with others. One way to get your friends excited about joining you is to plan a “Giving Party”. Ask your parents to help you download a free guide (WateringCanPress.com/html/ parents.html) that has fun ideas and activities for creating a holiday-time or birthday party or rainy day get-together.

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

ave you ever seen someone do something that changed a situation from bad to good? Maybe your parents helped someone whose car broke down, or a teacher spent extra time after class helping you with schoolwork. No matter your age, where you live or what you own, you have the power to do good, too. What you

do can make other people happy and make the world a better place. Here are some ideas to help you figure out how. n A good place to start is to think about what’s important to you. This will help you find a way of giving back that you’ll enjoy and want to do again and again. For example, if you love taking care of animals, offer to walk an elderly person’s dog for them. If you get sad when you think about someone being lonely, visit a neighbor that lives alone or send a special card to a relative as a way to show your love.

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

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natural awakenings

December 2014

consciouseating

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

Savor

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

HAPPY FEASTING TO ALL

Tasty Rituals that Deepen the Holiday Spirit by lane vail

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

Pause

Hunger, the body’s fuel gauge, manifests in physical symptoms like a growling stomach or low blood sugar, says May, citing a useful analogy. “You

Connect wouldn’t drive around and pull into every gas station you see; you’d check your fuel gauge first. Before filling up with food, pause and check your fuel gauge. Am I actually hungry, or is this desire coming from something else?” May suggests practicing FEASTing: First, focus on physical sensations, thoughts and emotions; perhaps we’re thirsty, rather than hungry, rationalizing that holiday foods are special, or feeling stressed or lonely. Next, explore why the feelings or thoughts are present, and

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

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

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

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Sync

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

Play

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

Give

Boxing Day offers something far more meaningful to celebrate than postholiday sales. Originating as a tradition that thrived during the 19th century, “December 26 was a chance for landowners and homeowners to give back to household staff and local tradespeople,” says Evans. “It’s a tradition worth reviving to pause, reflect on our own good fortune and contribute to others’ comfort.” Consider serving a meal at a local soup kitchen, collecting items for a food drive or offering a box of healthy culinary treats to community stewards at a fire station, post office or library. On Christmas Day, says Ban Breathnach, “Our kids have the world lying at their feet.” Boxing Day, she says, provides a natural transition to reach out in charity.

HEALTHY HOLIDAY TOPPERS Creating a repertoire of delicious wintery foods can help evoke health, mindfulness and delight during the holiday season. Dr. Michelle May advises approaching the entire process of eating, including the menu planning, shopping and food preparation, with a spirit of mindfulness, which adds a deeper dimension of pleasure to the experience. “Cake becomes more than just cake,” she says. “It becomes something the family creates and enjoys together.” Savor these rituals and recipes with loved ones.

Memory-Making Christmas Cake This nontraditional, healthy Christmas cake is alcohol-, sugar- and gluten-free. It relies on fruit for sweetness, almond meal for moistness and vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and orange essences for a perfect mingling of flavors. Prepare the cake with the whole family as a Stir-Up Sunday ritual, and keep it tightly sealed in the refrigerator until Christmas Day. Serve in small portions at room temperature or warmed in the oven and alongside vanilla bean custard or plain yogurt swirled with orange blossom honey. Yields 20 servings 2½ cups (600 grams) mixed and chopped dried fruit (raisins, prunes,

figs, apricots, currants, sultanas and/ or dates) 1 tsp ground cinnamon ¼ tsp nutmeg 1 tsp vanilla bean extract Zest and juice from 1 organic orange 3 Tbsp olive oil 3 organic free-range eggs 2 cups (200 gm) ground almonds (almond flour) ¼ cup (50 gm) walnuts Preheat the oven to 300° F. Line the sides and base of a 7-inch round cake tin with parchment paper. Combine the dried fruit, spices, vanilla, orange zest and juice, olive oil and eggs. Mix in the almond flour and walnuts, then spoon the batter into the baking tin. Bake for an hour-and-a-half. Insert a skewer or toothpick to see if it comes out moist, but clean; if not, bake for up to 30 minutes more. (Cover the top if necessary to prevent over-browning.) After cooling, remove from the tin and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one month. Courtesy of Teresa Cutter, author of The 80/20 Diet and founder of TheHealthyChef.com.

The Perfect Custard

Yields 6 servings A velvety-smooth custard, also called crème anglaise, may be used as a

Lane Vail is a freelance writer and blogger at DiscoveringHomemaking.com. natural awakenings

December 2014

1½ cinnamon sticks 13 drops each of essences of chicory flower, beech flower and rose quartz (all available at natural grocers)

Courtesy of Teresa Cutter, TheHealthyChef.com

Pour the hot milk over the eggs and whisk in well.

foundation of many desserts. It can be flavored with cinnamon, nutmeg, chocolate, citrus, coffee or pistachio. Pour this vanilla bean custard over a warm Christmas cake or serve it straight up as eggnog, adding a touch of brandy and dusting of nutmeg. 2 cups milk of choice (organic, almond, coconut, soy or rice) 2 organic free-range eggs 2 tsp vanilla bean extract 2 Tbsp organic maple syrup or 1 Tbsp honey 1 Tbsp cornflour or kudzu Pinch nutmeg Heat milk in a saucepan with vanilla and honey and bring to near boiling, then remove from heat.

Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan and cook over a gentle heat, stirring with a wooden spoon until it thickens and coats the back of the spoon. Remove from the heat quickly and pour back into the mixing bowl.

In a large pot, bring the apple juice to a near boil. Add all the other ingredients and turn off the heat. Read Melody Moonlight’s story at Tinyurl.com/LovePotionStory to infuse it all with magic and meaning.

Whisk well to slightly cool and smooth it out. If any lumps appear, strain the mixture through a sieve.

Courtesy of Andy Bottagaro, potion maker at Shine Restaurant & Gathering Place, in Boulder, CO.

Serve hot or cold. To warm up cold custard, put in a bowl set over a pan of simmering water; stir and heat through gently. NOTE: For an egg-free custard, heat 17 oz almond milk with 2 Tbsp honey or 100 percent maple syrup and 2 tsp vanilla extract until near boiling. Thicken with a slurry made from 2 Tbsp cornflour, arrowroot or kudzu. Finish with a sprinkling of nutmeg. Courtesy of Teresa Cutter, author of The 80/20 Diet and founder of TheHealthyChef.com.

Melody Moonlight’s Magical Monster Loving Potion

A Revitalizing Ritual for the New Year

photo by Carl Hogg

Beat eggs and cornflour in a stainless steel mixing bowl until combined.

Yields 4 servings

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Melody Moonlight’s story, which birthed the potion 32 oz apple juice ½ cup dried holy basil leaf 2 Tbsp dried orange peel 2 Tbsp dried rosemary 1½ Tbsp crushed cardamom 1½ Tbsp dried ginger root 1 Tbsp dried peppermint leaves ½ Tbsp ground nutmeg www.nasrq.com

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

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natural awakenings

December 2014

Satisfy Your Holiday Cookie Cravings Without Derailing Your Diet

compiled by Mary-Elizabeth Schurrer

t practically goes without saying: ‘Tis the season to be baking! From cutout cookies and peppermint bark to spiced rum cakes and pumpkin pie, desserts take the spotlight of holiday feasting. However, although this time of year has become synonymous with sugary indulgences, these mouthwatering morsels can lead to waistenlarging consequences. Whether at family gatherings, office parties or even your own kitchen, it seems like you’re sneaking guilty nibbles at every turn. You try to resist, but will-power often wears thin when faced with such a tempting smorgasbord. So, instead of trying to deprive yourself of these seasonal goodies, opt for a less drastic – and much more enjoyable – strategy. Simply stock those cookie tins with healthier versions of your favorite holiday recipes. Swap refined sugar, bleached flour, saturated fat and other artificial ingredients for the following all-natural and equally delicious twists on some traditional sweet treats you grew up with. Molasses Gingerbread Cookies (yields 20 servings) Recipe adapted from BuddingLotusBody.com  Gluten-free  Dairy-free  Vegan 48

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

 Naturally Sweetened Ingredients: • 1 ¼ cup almond flour • ¼ cup diced crystallized ginger • ¼ cup unrefined coconut oil • 2 Tbsp agave nectar • 2 Tbsp organic blackstrap molasses • 1 Tbsp ground ginger • ½ tsp baking soda • ¼ tsp sea salt Preparation: 1. Pre-heat your oven to 350˚ F. 2. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, ground ginger, sea salt and baking soda. 3. In another mixing bowl, combine the molasses and agave. 4. Heat a small pan on a low stovetop setting, then add the coconut oil and sauté, while stirring constantly, until the oil has melted to a liquid state. 5. Pour the coconut oil into the molasses and agave mixture, then stir together. 6. Add the liquid ingredients to the dry ingredients, then stir thoroughly until the mixture has become a dough. 7. Fold the crystallized ginger into the dough. 8. Roll the dough into 20 bite-sized balls, then place them on a greased cookie sheet, leaving space between each ball. 9. Bake for 6-8 minutes, or until golden-brown. Cranberry Thumbprint Cookies (yields 18 servings) Recipe adapted from IFoodReal.com  Gluten-free  Dairy-free  Vegan  Naturally Sweetened Ingredients: • 2 cups almond flour • 2 Tbsp agave nectar • 2 Tbsp coconut flakes • 2 Tbsp almond milk • 1 Tbsp unrefined coconut oil

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• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract • ¼ tsp sea salt • ¼ tsp baking soda For the Filling: • 10 pitted dates • 1 cup fresh/frozen cranberries • ½ cup water • 1 Tbsp chia seeds • 2 tsp orange zest Preparation: 1. Pre-heat your oven to 350˚ F. 2. Pour the water, dates, cranberries and orange zest into a small pot, then place the pot on a stove-top burner and bring to a boil. 3. Reduce the heat to low, then cover the pot and let simmer for approximately 5 minutes, or until the cranberries burst open. 4. Pour the mixture into a blender or food processer and puree until smooth, then stir in the chia seeds and temporarily set aside. 5. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, baking soda and sea salt. 6. Melt the coconut oil, using the same method described in the Molasses Gingerbread Cookie recipe. 7. Add the almond milk, vanilla extract, coconut oil and agave nectar, then stir thoroughly until the mixture has become a dough. 8. Refrigerate the dough for approximately 10 minutes. 9. Roll the dough into 18 bite-sized balls, then place them on a greased cookie sheet, leaving space between each ball. 10. Press your thumb into the center of each ball to make an imprint. 11. Bake for 14-16 minutes, or until golden-brown, then let the cookies cool slightly. 12. Fill each cookie with a spoonful of jam and sprinkle with the coconut flakes. Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies (yields 22 servings) Recipe adapted from EatGood4Life. com  Gluten-free  Dairy-free  Naturally Sweetened Ingredients: • 4 egg whites* • 1 cup organic almond butter

/3 cup GF whole rolled oats ½ cup coconut palm sugar ½ cup 70% cacao dark chocolate chips • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract • 1 tsp baking soda • ½ tsp sea salt *Make this recipe Vegan by substituting 1 Tbsp milled fl ax combined with 3 Tbsp water in place of each egg white. •

• •

Preparation: 1. Pre-heat your oven to 350˚ F. 2. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the almond butter, egg whites (or vegan substitute), vanilla extract and coconut palm sugar with an electric mixer. 3. Once the mixture is smooth, add the baking soda, chocolate chips, oats and sea salt, then stir thoroughly until the mixture has become a dough. 4. Roll the dough into 22 bite-sized balls, then place them on a greased cookie sheet, leaving space between each ball. 5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden-brown. Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies (yields 24 cookies) Recipe adapted from TheHealthyMaven.com  Gluten-free  Dairy-free  Naturally Sweetened Ingredients: • 3 egg whites* • 1 ½ cup GF ground rolled oats • ½ cup organic pumpkin puree • ½ cup coconut palm sugar 1 • /3 cup unrefined coconut oil • 1 tsp baking powder • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract • ½ tsp ground cinnamon • ¼ tsp sea salt 1 • /8 tsp ground nutmeg

*Make this recipe Vegan by substituting 1 Tbsp milled fl ax combined with 3 Tbsp water in place of each egg white. For the Coating: • ¼ cup coconut palm sugar • ½ tsp ground cinnamon Preparation: 1. Pre-heat your oven to 350˚ F. 2. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, coconut palm sugar and sea salt. 3. Melt the coconut oil, using the same method described in the Molasses Gingerbread Cookie recipe. 4. In another mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, coconut oil, vanilla extract and egg whites (or Vegan substitute). 5. Add the liquid ingredients to the dry ingredients, then stir thoroughly until the mixture has become a dough. 6. In another mixing bowl, combine whisk together the coconut palm sugar and cinnamon for the coating. 7. Roll the dough into 24 bite-sized balls, then dip each ball into the coating mixture. 8. Place them on a greased cookie sheet, leaving space between each ball. 9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden-brown. 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 fi t, nutritious and empowered lifestyle.

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December 2014

Eliminate Holiday Stress by Making Yoga Part of Your Regular Routine by Mary-Elizabeth Schurrer

hile the holiday season invites people to reconnect with loved ones, enjoy lighthearted festivities, carry on traditions and even sneak a spoonful of cookie dough (or two!), this time of year can also cause physical strain, mental exhaustion and emotional angst. That notorious holiday “hustle and bustle” often depletes energy reserves, thereby hampering the ability to keep pace with demanding schedules or obligations. There are homes to decorate, gifts to purchase and wrap, office parties to attend, family gatherings to host, feasts to prepare, relatives to visit and overeager children to accommodate. Such an extensive to-do list inevitably leads to feeling overwhelmed, which contradicts the entire purpose of this season: creating memories with family and friends. So, instead of getting lost in that onthe-go shuffle you’ve come to expect around the holidays, simply slow down and allow yourself to rejuvenate periodically. Release pressure and tension from both your mind and body. Set aside moments throughout the day to quietly unwind and experience inner 50

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

peace. Even during this family-centric time of year, don’t forget to claim some “me time.” You may be wondering: “What is a proven method for integrating this so-called ‘me time’ into my daily life without stealing momentum from my agenda?” That’s a fair question, and I recently spoke with four local fitness professionals, who have a solution to this quandary: Yoga! Allow me to introduce Liana Bryant, director and instructor at Rosemary Court Yoga Studio; Lata Coykendall, owner and instructor at Loving Light Yoga Studio; Melina Economos, director and instructor at ReflexArts Yoga Studio; and Kerry Tice, owner and director at CircuSoul Yoga Studio. Their pointers for achieving physical, mental and emotional wellbeing through this ancient healing practice might just save you from becoming a Grinch as the holidays approach. Natural Awakenings: In what specific ways can yoga be used to combat feelings of stress and anxiety? Liana Bryant: Yoga invites you to slow down, connect with your breath, quiet

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your mind and become present [in each moment]. A yoga practice also helps reduce muscle tension and deactivates your stress response. Lata Coykendall: Mostly by deep, conscious breathing. By bringing your focused awareness to your breath, you take your focus away from other thoughts and distractions. When your mind consciously follows the breath, there is a feeling of calm, like anxieties are melting away. When you add movement to this focused awareness of the breath, you make a connection of mind, body and breath – a meditation in motion. Breath follows thought and intention, so when you intentionally focus on the breath and let your body follow the breath, you feel lighter. The heaviness of stress seems to melt away. Your whole body feels more alive, and your mind becomes clear. Melina Economos: Often, we feel like little floating heads walking around, all scattered thoughts, barely paying attention to where we are or what we’re doing. But when we start to bring ourselves to this moment, right now, we begin to notice that nothing is bad or wrong, and that only our rushing minds [are] causing the discomfort.

One of the quickest and most universal ways to [enter] the present moment is bringing awareness to our breath. Yoga helps us with this. As we twist and turn in our postures, balance on one foot or jump into chaturanga, there is no room for anything else. We have to focus on what we’re doing, or we’ll fall. Yoga brings us right into our bodies and our breath in a way that helps us feel more alive. Kerry Tice: Yoga, especially restorative yoga, engages the parasympathetic nervous system and allows relaxation to happen at a deep level. Yoga helps disengage the sympathetic nervous system, which is the part of the nervous system that is [triggered] in stressful situations. Modern life is full of stressors, and yoga can help combat stress at its root. NA: How would you recommend fitting a regular yoga practice into this hectic and often overwhelming time of year? Bryant: Make a regular practice accessible to you. Perhaps it’s attending your favorite yoga class once or twice a week – either before work, during your lunch break, after work or on the weekend. Maybe it’s a short 15 minute self-practice at home each morning. If you’re a new mom, maybe it’s taking a Mom and Baby Yoga class. Whatever it is that works for you, stick with it and commit. You’ll thank yourself! Coykendall: We are so busy with calendars and phones, why not schedule it in? Once it’s on the calendar, it’s happening. Start with one class a week and, on all the other days, take at least 15 minutes to sit and breathe. Maybe let your arms move with your breath; [do] a neck rotation or ankle and wrist rotation. Add a side stretch and twist, and now you are moving and breathing. Spend 15 minutes with your legs up against the wall or on a chair and follow your breath. You could also work with an instructor to create a 15 minute yoga routine that you could practice on your own. Just make a decision and say “This is for me!” You can also make it a social gathering. How about yoga, then a nice lunch with friends?

Economos: I use three tricks to keep myself on track with my yoga practice, especially during busy times. First, I remind myself that I actually enjoy doing yoga. It brings a lightness and ease to my day. It’s a fun form of selfexpression. It allows me to feel more grounded and, at the same time, more free in the mind. Secondly, it doesn’t have to be an hour-and-a-half practice. Take a forward fold or two before climbing into bed, bust out a downward dog before breakfast and, most importantly, use props that are already around [you] for yoga on-thego. For example, as a break from doing dishes, put your hands on the edge of the sink, then walk your feet out so that your spine is straight and your upper body is parallel to the floor. Bring your hips over your feet, and relax your chest toward the floor. Hold this variation of down dog for three–five breaths, and you’ll love doing the dishes! Incorporate yoga into every moment of your day, however big or small. Finally, yoga makes us all so much nicer, doesn’t it? When we relieve stress, we become better parents, friends and partners. So, if yoga makes us our best selves, we better stick to it. Tice: Schedule your class and commit yourself, just like you would a doctor’s appointment or an important meeting, so that you don’t back out on your commitment. Also, there are plenty of recorded and great yoga DVDs out there that provide deep relaxation, and you can do these in your own home or office.

NA: What has been your personal experience with using yoga to relieve stress, both during the holidays and in daily life? Bryant: I find that starting my day with a consistent home practice better prepares me for daily life and times of stress. Coykendall: Breathe…Breathe… Breathe. Breathe in for five counts, then breathe out for 10. Sometimes I just breathe and look up at the sky or intensely look at a tree. Sometimes I find myself becoming a tree [while] in tree pose and rooting myself into the earth. Economos: There’s a saying in yoga practice that how you react to postures on your mat is a good representation of how you handle problems off it. I can testify to the truth of this. I go through periods where I get hung up on a pose, trying to make it perfect. Finally, to break that cycle, I had to start closing my eyes when I practiced, literally and figuratively. I started feeling the posture instead of forcing it, allowing myself space to enjoy the movement. I [also] want everything to be perfect around the holidays. So, a few years ago, I started applying what I learned on my mat to daily life. I gave myself space to not be perfect, to make mistakes and to forgive myself for forgetting the cranberry sauce or almost setting the apple pie on fire. By keeping up a regular yoga practice through the holidays, I was able to keep myself grounded in what really matters about

natural awakenings

December 2014

of our Flying Yoga classes are great for stress relief. NA: Does your yoga studio offer any holiday incentives, discounts or gift certificates?

this time of year – loving others and being loved in return. Tice: Yin Yoga and Restorative Yoga allow me to balance the chaos of running a business and raising children – I have two little ones under five. Without my yoga, I feel very disoriented; my practice allows me to concentrate on the things that matter. NA: Do you have any advice for newcomers to yoga, who are looking for a calming outlet, but may be intimidated to try yoga?

Tice: They should come in and try restorative yoga. It is great for students of all levels and walks of life.

Bryant: I encourage new students to contact the studio for suggestions on where to start. There are many styles of yoga, so it’s important to find the right fit for each person. Doing this prep work can help ensure a good first class experience. Further, if it’s in your budget, starting out with private sessions is a lovely, non-intimidating way to begin a yoga practice. Coykendall: Try yoga outdoors! We have many people, who start yoga for the first time at our beach yoga classes at Englewood Beach. I think [they appreciate] the freedom of being outside, knowing they can scoot out anytime and just sit on the beach and watch. Always start with a gentle class; you can always advance if you feel that the gentle [practice] wasn’t enough for you. If you start with a class that is too hard, you can get discouraged and feel you are not able to practice yoga. This is not true. There is a yoga class that’s right for everyone; you just have to search. Start gently and try a few classes with different teachers. Your body will love you for it! Economos: Any good yogi will leave judgment at the door, so just knowing that everyone in the class is there to be 52

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their best selves may help. It doesn’t matter what clothes you wear, as long as you’re comfortable. It doesn’t matter what kind of mat you have, as long as you don’t slip too much. Just like anything, it may take time for you to feel comfortable with the different poses and names. You wouldn’t start out jogging by doing a 10k; you might just jog around the block a few times. Same idea with yoga – take it easy, have fun and don’t worry about doing it “right.”

NA: What specific yoga classes, taught at your studio, would you recommend for stress relief and mental relaxation? Bryant: All of our yoga classes will help with stress relief and mental relaxation. While some people seek slower classes that incorporate meditation of breathwork to reduce stress, others find that a flowing class provides moving meditation to help them relax. To find which style would help each person best, call the studio for a personal consultation. Coykendall: Gentle Yoga, Restorative Yoga, Yin Yoga, Meditation and Yoga Nidra, and Sound Healing. All of these classes are a blend of yoga postures, breathing, meditation and relaxation. Economos: If you are experiencing a lot of extra energy and have trouble sitting still, hit a Hot Yoga or Yoga Flow class. If you are feeling stuck in a routine, change your perspective and hang upside down with an Aerial Yoga class. If you are constantly running around and just need time to rest, try Restorative Yoga. Tice: Yin Yoga, Restorative Yoga or any

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Bryant: We are happy to put together personalized gift sets that include group classes and private sessions. Plus, our gift certificates make great stocking stuffers! Coykendall: [We offer] gift certificates and a new-to-yoga package that includes one private session and five classes for $110, or try your first three classes for $25. Economos: We offer gift certificates for the season, as well as yoga baskets that include a beginner’s starter kit, complete with a yoga eye bag, fiveclass card and yoga mat. We also offer a new student special – $29 for two weeks of unlimited yoga classes. That gives you time to work out which classes are best for you and figure out a schedule before committing to a longer class card. Tice: No holiday discounts or incentives, but we do offer gift certificates. Rosemary Court Yoga: 810 Central Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236; www. RosemaryCourt.com; (941)-952-5280 Loving Light Yoga: 3579 S Access Rd, Englewood, FL 34224; www. LovingLightYoga.com; (941)-473-0135 ReFlex Arts: 6260 N Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243; www. ReFlexArts.com; (941)-359-9642 CircuSoul Yoga: 4141 S Tamiami Trail, Suites 6 & 11, Sarasota, FL 34231; www.CircuSoul.com; (941)-922-9642 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.

natural awakenings

December 2014

fitbody

Find Your Fitness Style

Workouts that Suit Your Personality by Wendy Worrall Redal

hile some people find repetitious workouts boring, others like doing predictable routines at regular locations. Ensuring that our fitness regimen jives with our “fitness personality” is integral to making exercise a consistent part of our lifestyle, a concept that has traction among exercise experts. Jonathan Niednagel, founder and director of The Brain Type Institute, in Mountain Home, Arkansas, and an athletic consultant for professional teams, explains in his book, Your Key to Sports Success, that understanding our inborn brain type can help us to determine which sport is best suited to motivate us. In Suzanne Brue’s book, The 8 Colors of Fitness, she applies principles from the Myers-Briggs personality inventory to help readers develop a personalized exercise program. Susan Davis-Ali, Ph.D., in St. Paul, Minnesota, a professional coach for working women, created a Fitness Interest Profile survey for the Life Time Fitness health club chain. She points to research that suggests people that engage in activities appropriate for their personalities enjoy their workouts more and are likely to stay with them longer. Identifying our fitness personality can help us find a program that suits our rhythms and interests. Based on composites from growing research, here are six categories that assess and capture the way we may feel

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about exercise; more than one can apply to any individual. Disciplined and driven. This is an image to which many of us may aspire, even though not everyone fits the mold. These exercisers are self-motivated and goal-oriented. Commitment and consistency go hand-in-hand. They like to use devices to track progress, maintain a training log and/or work with a personal trainer in systematic workouts geared to measure improvement. Disciplined types are often early risers; starting the day with regular exercise is second nature. Compatible fitness regimens include cardio workouts, interval and weight training, running, swimming and martial arts. Relishes routine. While these folks are disciplined and driven in some ways, they tend to be more relaxed about regimens. The key to success here is consistency. They like order and familiarity in exercise settings and practice and may enjoy reading or watching a screen during workouts. Whatever the preferred approach, whether it’s a favorite training video, Wii Fit video game, favorite teacher or memorized Pilates moves, these exercisers like to stick with it, even working out at the same time every day—often first thing in the morning or after work—finding that regularity can be habit-forming. Conscious contemplative. Reflective individuals enjoy quiet, solo activities like long-distance running, biking, hiking and swimming, that allow oppor-

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tunities to look inward, often without thinking too much about the physical details. Exercise offers a chance to clear the mind and renew the spirit while strengthening the body. These types naturally gravitate to outdoor pursuits, but some indoor practices may also suit them, like yoga, Pilates, tai chi or even karate, which incorporate a strong mind-body component. Workouts are often soothing, rather than intense. Plays well with others. For many people, exercise is best enjoyed with others, combining the social and fitness benefits of both. Connections and camaraderie get them off the couch, revved up and ready to go. Whether it’s a committed group of friends chatting during water aerobics or a highpowered cardio class that compares notes, motivation comes primarily from the presence—and accountability factor—of others. A lunch-hour class at a nearby studio or gym may be a fun break in the workday. On weekends, consider golf, tennis, dance or a local recreation team. Compulsive competitor. While the communal aspect is appealing, the greater gratification for this type comes through the thrill and challenge of competition. Trying to win is the great motivator, unlike driven and disciplined types that are happy to push through to their personal best. Team sports are a natural outlet, including soccer, rugby, lacrosse, basketball or swimming, plus disc golf, tennis or racquetball matches and running events. Avid for adventure. It’s tough for any formal exercise program to keep the attention of adventurers. They crave freshness and spontaneity in fitness venues, activities that engage their interest and animate enthusiasm. It’s crucial for adventurous types to mix things up and not rely on any one exercise practice. Outdoor endeavors such as snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, inline skating or mountain biking have appeal. They may gravitate to the variables of Nia, Zumba’s high-energy Latin dance groove, kickboxing, exercise balls or hot yoga. A midday exercise escape can break the work routine. Their key to keeping active is to keep things stimulating. Wendy Worrall Redal blogs at Gaiam Life (Life.Gaiam.com), from which this was adapted.

inspiration

Hymn to Living in Silence by Robert Rabbin

If You Learn from

Natural Awakenings,

Share the Knowledge

here’s one truth, and Then, by letting everyCelebrate the it is silence. All truths thing go the second it dawn of the occurs, we return to clarity, come from, exist as and return to silence. winter solstice freedom and eternal openSilence is behind every ness. We live in silence. For on December 21 it is in silence that God is holy thought, word and act. All holiness is silent. in nature and working, playing and loving. This is what all sages In silence, we become perin silence. know and say: Enter silence fectly one with that divine and we leave behind the working, playing and loving. rubble of self and no-self, time and When absolutely all has been given death. Enter silence and we see the up and only emptiness remains, even world that God created; that we are the then, take one more step towards silence. created. God, the world and being are Give away the emptiness. Hold back one. Life is suddenly real—beautiful and nothing. Even the giver is given away. perfect in each curve and angle. In silence, we transform and are This awakening into truth hapreborn. We become real with more joy, pens as we surrender everything pleasure, peace and contentment than to silence. We must give away our we ever hoped for. Our highest purpose inventory of unreleased thoughts and is fulfilled, our greatest longing is realcherished beliefs, undigested experiized in ways we know not. ences and dogma, disappointments, In becoming nothing, we become fears, worries, resentments and soreverything. We need nothing, and thus rows; even personal desires and joys. have everything. With nothing to proIf it’s difficult to do: throw it away, tect, only peace remains. It cannot be fling it off, kick it out. Just don’t let it controlled or fathomed, only lived. We stay. We must empty our storehouses of love this about the holy ones, the sages. past, present and future, and then burn No one knows how it happens, only them down so that nothing can ever that it does. accumulate again. In silence, we are moved by what Now give more. Let go of ego, will moves all else without knowing how, why and humility, ignorance and knowledge, or when. This is freedom, love and truth. the body and its faculties. Surrender what is and is not yourself. Give away Robert Rabbin is a self-awareness meaning, purpose and happiness, even teacher and author. Connect at precious life itself. Nothing can remain. RobertRabbin.com.

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December 2014

naturalpet

Pet Bed-Buddies Is Sleeping Together Healthy? by Erik J. Martin

here was a time DeAngelis, a commuStaying in close when Eliska, nications director at a three-pound Westminster College. contact makes it Prague ratter, would “But I realized that easier to pick up curl up and sleep next they can keep you to owner Krista DeAnup when they rustle fleas, ticks or skin gelis, and most of the around, wake you up time, she and the if they have to go out mites a pet may dog enjoyed a peaceand sometimes go to carry, and can ful night’s slumber. the bathroom in the Then DeAngebed if you don’t wake worsen allergies. lis married, and her up.” husband banned the ~ Roger Valentine, Make a dog from the bed for holistic veterinarian fear of unintentionally Good Choice squashing Eliska in his “Having your pet sleep in the bed with sleep. After enduring a you is a personal choice,” says holistic few sleepless nights of canine whining Veterinarian Patrick Mahaney, of Caliand barking, the Salt Lake City couple successfully curbed their pet’s protests fornia Pet Acupuncture & Wellness, in by simply spraying Eliska with a misting West Hollywood. By discouraging this behavior, “Your pet will be less likely bottle every time she acted up. After to confuse your bed with theirs, and two nights of this routine, the pockettherefore prevent potential territorysized pooch was fully trained to sleep by herself in another room. related problems.” By failing to discour “I originally thought letting my dog age it, “You not only face the possibility of behavioral problems, you could also sleep in my bed was a good idea,” says 56

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face adverse effects to your own sleep and health,” he notes. According to results published in a survey of 300 sleep disorder patients conducted by Dr. John Shepard, then medical director of the Mayo Clinic Sleep Disorders Center, in Rochester, Minnesota, nearly 60 percent of the pet owners in the study slept with their pets inside the bedroom. Twenty-two percent of the patients were likely to have pets sleeping on the bed with them. Plus, 53 percent said their sleep was disrupted to some extent every night. Twenty-one percent and 7 percent of their dogs and cats, respectively, snored. Yet, a British study of 420 UK cat owners conducted by the nonprofit Cats Protection revealed that 44 percent of respondents (including 51 percent of women polled) said they enjoyed a better night’s sleep with a cat in bed with them than with a human companion. Benefits listed included an absence of snoring, more space on the bed and soothing purrs. “The advantages of letting your pet share your bed include companionship, warmth and a sense of security,” advises Mahaney. Among the drawbacks, he notes lack of space for people to sleep, interruption of normal sleep patterns and the pet’s confusion about its expected place to sleep.

Nip Problems in the Bud

To break a pet of a bed-sleeping habit, Mahaney recommends applying persistence, consistency and the following tips: n Establish a separate area or bed for the pet to sleep. A cat or dog bed can be as simple as a clean, soft blanket placed nearby. n Use positive reinforcement techniques. Offer a tiny training treat, “gooddog” clicker noise or praise when the animal is comfortably resting in its own bed, to reinforce this desirable behavior. n Immediately address any territorial aggression when co-sleeping with a pet, such as growling or nipping. First, authoritatively say, “No!” Then put the pet on the floor or into its own bed and give the command to sit and stay.

A pet’s companionship can reduce levels of stress hormones while enabling people to deal with their emotions and stressful situations.

There is a better way. A natural way.

~ American Heart Association journal, Hypertension n If problematic behavior persists, seek consultation with a veterinary behavior specialist.

Your destination for holistic veterinary healing on the West Coast of Florida.

Let Sleeping Dogs Lie

If a family member decides to share a bed with a pet, Mahaney offers the following recommendations:

Your pet has options: • Holistic Care for Cancer, Chronic Illness & Arthritis • 22 Years Experience in Holistic and Emergency Medicine • Now Accepting Family Vet Referrals R CREE EA

n Let it sleep on top of the covers, instead of under them.

n Allow a cat the opportunity to exit the bedroom throughout the night to play, eat, drink and use the litter box. Cats are nocturnal animals and are more likely to be active during lights out.

n Give the dog an opportunity to void itself within a reasonable timeframe before going to sleep. A typical healthy dog should not have to get up in the middle of the night to urinate or defecate.

n Be aware of the need to remove environmental debris, including fecal material, on its coat before bedtime.

Jaime Gonzalez DVM, CVA 7509 S Tamiami Tr. • Sarasota, FL 34231 P: 941-312-6825 • F: 888-334-7004

www.bearcreeksarasota.com

Veterinary Alternatives

Erik J. Martin regularly contributes to WebVet.com, from which this was adapted.

Pixie Dust wishes you

Happy Holidays!

Sarasota's Best Place to Find Unusual, Thoughtful and Whimsical Gifts.

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Different psychics in the store daily.

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natural awakenings

December 2014

petperspectives

Struvite Crystals: A Painful and Potentially Fatal Condition for Dogs and Cats By Suzi Harkola

f you see your dog or cat straining to urinate, urinating blood, urinating in inappropriate places, urinating frequently or being unable to urinate, don’t hesitate to see your veterinarian. The problem could be struvite crystals, a type of bladder stone that blocks the urinary tract and is painful to your pet. In a best-case scenario, antibiotics will alleviate the infection and the pain, and the crystals will dissolve on their own. However, left untreated, this condition could be fatal. Emergency treatment is crucial, and surgery (cystotomy) is often the only option when the urinary tract is blocked. The crystals are identified by urinalysis, X-ray and ultrasound, and can clearly be seen on the films. A urine culture and sensitivity test will reveal if bacteria are present, and can also determine what medication will be most effective in clearing the infection. The problem is seen more often in female dogs and cats, who are six or seven years old. Small dogs are especially vulnerable to struvite crystal formation. If your pet has developed crystals or stones, you’ll need to create a neutral urine pH of seven or less. Dog owners

available late evenings and weekends

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can check the pH at home with pH strips available from your vet or a local drug store. Check in the morning prior to breakfast to get the best reading. Hold the pH tape in the stream of urine while your dog is voiding, or you can catch a urine sample in a container and dip the tape into the sample to check the pH. “Diet is the best way to avoid crystals forming in the first place,” says Jaime Gonzalez, DVM, CVA, of Bear Creek Veterinary Alternatives in Sarasota. “Dogs and cats evolved to eat meat, and, when fed a grain-based diet, the starch alkalizes urine pH, which can lead to the development of struvite crystals and stones.” Many holistic veterinarians use traditional Chinese medicinals, homeopathy and nutraceuticals to help with this condition, including ingredients like glucosamine and cranberry extract, which can help reduce inflammation in the bladder. “Some breeds are more prone to bladder problems,” Dr. Gonzalez explains. “Acidifiers like Cranberry Comfort can help. Check with your veterinarian for dosages. Any time the flow of urine is completely blocked, it is an emergency situation and should be treated as such.”

A Personal Experience My cat, Luke, was exhibiting signs of distress when urinating. He was obviously straining to “go” and sometimes would sit in his litter box when nothing was coming out. I’d watch him closely, and when he began to urinate blood, he made sure I could see him. I rushed him to the emergency vet (this was on a Sunday, of course), who did a preliminary examination and prescribed antibiotics and suggested I get him to my regular vet ASAP. The antibiotics seemed to work, so I decided to wait and see. The straining and bleeding returned after about a week, so I got him to my vet immediately. After X-rays showed 10 struvite crystals, there was no time to spare. He was scheduled for surgery that afternoon, and the crystals were removed. One more day, and Luke probably would’ve died. The experience was expensive, almost $1,800 for the emergency visit and the follow-up and surgery. But for me, there was no other option. Luke now eats better food and remains under my watchful eye. Dr. Gonzalez offers holistic care for cancer, chronic illness and arthritis. He has 22 years’ experience in holistic and emergency medicine. Learn more at BearCreekSarasota.com.

enters the body, compression occurs. When the lower body cannot dissipate the incoming force, compression is held in the structures, fluids and fields. When the body compresses due to trauma patterns, it may trigger bone formation. This may lead to stenosis, bone spurs, nerve entrapment and more. As the body adds bone, it becomes more stable and may lose flexibility.

5. Stability and the Iliopsoas

Five Things to Know About the Hips and Low Back by Ken DiPersio

hen in balance, the hips and low back support upright posture and body movement without tension and pain. The hips and spine meet the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ever changing demand for stability and flexibility by orienting around the center or vertical midline. Is your body on center, working without tension and pain? If not, here are some things you might want to consider:

and, much like a meandering river, also gives rise to the curves of the spine. In the adult body, the original midline, the primitive streak, is located in the tailbone (sacrum). Distortion in the original midline pattern will not support the normal curves of the spine and will not allow the body to easily hold its center. Connective tissue and muscles respond by increasing tension.

The two hip bones (ilia), along with the sacrum, combine to form a solid foundation that supports the spine and upper body. The pelvic foundation includes movable joints between the pelvic bones and legs. These combine to support movement throughout daily activities. By continually adapting to constantly changing body positions, the pelvic foundation supports the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dual need for stability and flexibility.

walking and upright posture. This normal hip rotation increases the curves of the tailbone and lumbar spine, back and neck. The curves of the spine, along with discs between vertebrae, act to absorb and dissipate force. Through stress, injury, chronic postural distortion and other factors, the pelvic foundation may rotate too far forward or back. Abnormal pelvic rotation may increase muscle tension, leading to pain and lack of mobility.

3. Normal Hip Rotation 1. The Hips Form a Flexible Foun- Later during fetal development, the hips rotate forward 30 degrees to support dation

2. Early Development - The Primitive Streak Upon fetal implantation, the first organized flow of fluid divides the embryo along the middle, forming left and right sides. This original, mid-line fluid flow gives rise to the bilateral form

4. Force Injury During fetal development, compression of cells into disc shapes creates early bone cells. These cells mature, becoming bones through an expansion of the fluid in the cells. When force

The iliopsoas muscle is a deep, inner hip muscle that allows the body to bear weight. Lining the inner hips and attaching to the low back diagonally, the psoas is the primary muscle support for the hips. When the psoas tightens, the hips lock when walking, running or climbing. When the psoas loosens, it allows the hips to move into a new position. When the psoas muscle is chronically tight, it pulls the low back forward, increasing the lumbar curve. This shortens low back muscles creating tension and pain. Further problems may arise, as the psoas muscle shares attachments on the spine with the kidneys and respiratory diaphragm. Consequently, a tight psoas may adversely affect organ function and breathing. When the psoas becomes too weak to stabilize the hips, the leg muscles, designed to move, act to stabilize and create stiffness. In all pelvic and lumbar problems mentioned, the low back, hip and leg muscles will shorten, tightening to keep the body stable. It is important, when treating low back and hip problems, to achieve balance in the interplay between stability and flexibility. The body must move effortlessly between the two to meet constantly changing demands. Releasing compression and balancing the pelvis and spine with early embryo patterns, like the primitive streak/midline, is essential for health. This allows the body to maintain optimal health, while supporting daily activities, so you can live life to the fullest. Ken DiPersio, LMT is a Certified CST practitioner with 25 years of experience. He practices CST at Full Spectrum Health in Sarasota. For information call 941-952-1200.

natural awakenings

December 2014

wisewords

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

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

Why do you reframe a miracle as simply a shift in perception? Shifting your perception and choosing again is a core principle from A Course in Miracles, a metaphysical text that I study and teach from. When you choose 60

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

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

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

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

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

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

2014 LOCAL GUIDE TO

CONSCIOUS

GIVING Compiled by Suzi Harkola

hile opening presents is fun for all ages, giving a well-received gift can be especially gratifying. Whether gifts are handmade or store-bought, the most meaningful ones acknowledge each recipient’s specific needs and interests. Alternative gift fairs that support local or international charities are a good place to start. Homemade gifts add a personal touch and can be as simple as a framed photograph or special potpourri. Also, consider the eco-friendliness of a potential gift item—what it’s made of, where it’s made and how it’s packaged. Avoid the commercialism of bigbox toy store aisles by instead visiting a smaller, locally owned retailer in search of eco-friendly and educational gifts for the little ones. You may be pleasantly surprised by the lovely, gently-used items at local consignment and resale shops. This option is great for the environment and appreciated by the recipient. For that person, who literally has everything, consider a donation in his or her name to their favorite charity. Most non-profits will send a letter of thanks, acknowledging the contribution and the person, who provided it. The opportunities in Sarasota and Manatee Counties are endless—animal shelters, community foundations, the arts, Habitat for Humanity, and services for the homeless and elderly. There are so many charities to choose from, and you can rest easy knowing this gift is the right size! While we’re in the mood, why not spread holiday cheer beyond friends and family to everyone? Pay for the

next car at a toll booth, leave a potted plant on a coworker’s desk or run an errand for an elderly neighbor. It’s possible to maintain values of simple living and conscious consumerism throughout the holiday season with a bit of thoughtfulness and inspired creativity. To help givers move through the holiday shopping season with grace and joy, Natural Awakenings offers these ideas for gifts of fun and wellness to get you started.

Share a Smile with Seeds of Happiness

These cute little critters are available at Pet Supply Center. Made from small lumps of clay and molded into whimsical characters, they bring smiles wherever they land. Perfect for stocking stuffers or party favors, they’re sure to bring many smiles throughout the stressful holidays and the months to come. While you’re there, stock up on natural and holistic premium pet foods and explore their huge selection of toys and treats for your furry and feathered friends. Location: 3558 Webber St., Sarasota. Visit PetSupplyCenterSarasota.com or call 941-925-4376.

Holiday Gift for the Conscious, Aware Golfer

The Effortless Swing® approach for optimal golf is a four-hour program for the evolving golfer. This approach uses awareness/movement lessons (explored off the golf course), adapted from the Feldenkrais Method to

support consistency for the weekend golfer, the injured golfer or the golfer, who would like to fine-tune and improve his/her abilities. Moshe Feldenkrais, D. Sc., demonstrated that to improve a skill, one needed to look at the habitual patterns of action that interfere with a consistent optimal swing. You work to find your skeleton, learn to distribute your efforts and fine-tune your full body actions to create an easy flow of action throughout your whole self. Bonnie Kissam improved her golf game after entering the Feldenkrais Program. Golf, as she learned from a professional, is a series of effortless swings. It is a game of inches and of the mind. The Feldenkrais Method’s aim is to re-awaken flexible thinking and to use this approach, not only to maintain easy agility and flexibility, but also to hone skills. Kissam is offering a Holiday Special - $115 for CD plus an individual lesson. Contact her at 941-360-2248 or Bonnie@FeldenkraisInSarasota.com, or visit EffortlessSwing.com.

Pixie Dust Offers Unique Jewelry

Pixie Dust is now offering Loakai bracelets—symbols of balance, hope and humility. The name lokai was inspired by the Hawaiian word Lokahi, meaning unity and to blend opposites. Lokai is our unique pursuit of finding a mental balance. The bracelet is infused with elements, sourced from both the highest and lowest points on Earth. Carrying water from Mount Everest, the highest point on earth, the white bead represents life’s highest moments. When you’re feeling on top of the world, it’s important to stay humble. Sitting directly opposite its white counterpart, the black bead holds mud from the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth, signifying the difficult moments you experience throughout life. Even through life’s lowest moments, stay hopeful. The clear silicone beads represent that everyone has their own story. While life has its highs and lows, every point in-between is just as meaningful—these

natural awakenings

December 2014

points make up the fabric of your own story. The clear beads remind us that clarity is key in times of joy and sadness. Location: 1547 Main St., Sarasota. Call 941-366-6325 or visit DustyPixie.com.

Beach Life Wellness Invites Your Gift Recipient to ‘Live the Life’

Give the gift that feels like a mini-vacation! Beach Life Wellness’ Mango Island Dream spa treatment gift certificate includes a customized ultra-sonic facial, 30-minute massage and Mango Sugar Body Polish, which leaves skin touchably smooth, finished with a luxurious application of Mango Body Butter. This is a two-and-a half-hour treatment. The December price is $199. Beach Life Wellness is a fi ve-star spa located at the doorway to Casey Key at 301 Albee Rd W, Nokomis. Call 941-2442006 or visit BeachLifeSpa.com for more information.

Give the Gift of Yoga

Garden of the Heart Yoga has consistently been voted the Best Yoga Studio in Sarasota by readers of Natural Awakenings. Share their expertise with beginners or advanced yogis with a gift certificate, perhaps accompanied by a yoga mat or other accessory, and give the gift of health. Yoga is one of the most well-established and respected methods of self-care. A highly effective set of techniques, it calms the nervous system, increases flexibility and strength, releases physical and mental tension, enhances sleep and

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A ‘Bliss-ful’ Gift from Bliss Salon

Bliss Salon’s Holiday Soiree will cover all the bases, putting you in a festive mood while helping you to find sustainable stocking-stuffers. Featuring holiday gift boxes from Davines, natural hair care and styling products from Kevin Murphy, the local lifestyle line of organics from LolaBlue, all natural cosmetics from the Balm and accessories from our own Spotted Fawn Millinery, Bliss has everything you need for last-minute gifts and thoughtful indulgences. Come celebrate with Sarasota’s sustainable beauty center for expert advice and holiday cheer. Location: 5531 Palmer Circle, Sarasota. Call 941-923-1287 or visit BlissSalonSRQ.com.

Give the Gift of Health from GoFit Studios

Help your friends or family members get a healthy start this Holiday Season by giving them a gift certificate for a month’s membership to GoFit Studios. GoFit Studios is a fitness center, utilizing four elements, which are combined to optimize health: Far Infrared Sauna, Whole Body Vibration, Alkaline water and Himalayan salts. Far Infrared Sauna can detox the body, improve cardiac function, accelerate weight loss and relieve pain, among many more benefits. With Whole Body Vibration, you will achieve more benefits in far less time than with conventional exercise. Unlike other fitness or health machines, the vibration platform is unique because it maximizes results over a wide range of health objectives for all ages and body types. This form of exercise is also ideal for those, who have medical limitations that prevent them from participating in traditional physical activities, as there is little or no joint impact. Alkaline water is seven times more hydrating than regular water, boosts your immune system, balances the body’s pH and neutralizes acidity. Himalayan salt is a whole food, which contains all 84 elements and helps regulate water content in the body, promotes a stable pH balance and even purifies the air! Take advantage of this December offer: buy a month’s gift certificate and receive 15 minutes of Far Infrared Sauna use or a $5 gift certificate! With no hidden fees or contracts, your gift can give a friend or family member the kick-start they may need to embrace a more healthy lifestyle. Location: 2163 Siesta Dr., Sarasota. Visit gofi tstudios.com for more detailed information or call 941-554-8064 and our staff will be more than happy to tell you all about this journey to health!

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December 2014

their fear of the oil. They decided to make omega-3 so appealing that people would want to take it – not just for the health benefits, but also for the great taste. They started by creating Omega Cure®, an omega-3 fish oil so fresh that it has no taste or smell and can easily be added to juices and yogurts. The doctors have gone further, creating the Omega Cookie® and Omega Passion™ chocolate truffle, both healthy treats that can be integrated as part of the daily diet.

The #1 Consideration: It Must be Ultra-fresh

Omega-3 Innovations:

The Purest Fish Oil, Direct from Norway to Your Doorway by Suzi Harkola

utritionists tell us that the two nutrients that should be included in everyone’s diet are fish oil and whole oats. The combo has been proven to help with weight management, controlling blood sugar levels, as well as increasing focus and responsiveness. Marrying these two diverse ingredients, however, is no easy task; but Venice’s Omega3 Innovations has mastered the skill. Anne-Marie Chalmers, M.D. and Bo Martinsen, M.D. are happily married partners in life as well as through their business, Omega3 Innovations. They have developed relationships with the producers of the finest fish oil in Norway, and the product is shipped directly to their processing facility (which includes a full bakery) in Venice. Founded in 2006, the company ships their products across the United States and also sells them at the farmers’ markets in Sarasota and in Englewood. Twelve years ago, Martinsen and Chalmers were on a mission. The couple had recently moved to the United States from Norway, the homeland of fish oil. They wanted to bring their knowledge of the medicinal power of omega-3 to the American public, but they quickly ran into a problem: namely that in the United States, people had a negative association with fish oil. The two doctors realized that to help people take their omega-3s, they would first have to cure Sarasota/Manatee Edition www.nasrq.com 64

Shipped frozen in coolers from Norway, then bottled fresh to order, Omega Cure is the first lightly fruit-scented and pleasant-tasting drinkable source of omega-3 available in America. Martinsen says, “A very important thing to remember is that oil in capsules become rancid. You wouldn’t want to eat rancid fish, so don’t use old fish oil. If you break open a capsule and it smells like fish, throw it out.” Chalmers adds, “Our oil is extremely fresh, and, of course, everything we produce is gluten-free. We’ve seen remarkable results, from weight loss to pain relief. The product is full-spectrum and close to what you’d get from natural fish. It’s a terrific alternative to those who don’t like fish, but want the benefits of omega-3. You don’t have to worry about mercury or other impurities that can be found in fresh fish. And, it tastes good.”

And #2: Consistency “Take the product every day, at about the same time, and take the same dose,” says Chalmers. “If you’re taking one or two capsules a day, you’re not getting enough omega-3 to make a difference. You need the full dose every day. Otherwise, you’re wasting your money and achieving no benefit.” Omega Cure, the Antidote for Modern Living Omega Cure is their flagship product. An all-natural, painstakingly-filtered, ultra-fresh source of high-potency, broadspectrum liquid omega-3, it can improve bodily functions in even healthy people. But, as Dr. Chalmers notes, “For people with serious chronic diseases, the results are so compelling that many in the medical community are rethinking their treatment plans to include omega-3.”

When is a Cookie Not a Cookie? When It’s Breakfast! Chalmers says, “Skipping meals – especially breakfast – is one of our customers’ biggest nutritional hurdles. For them, we’ve created a superfood champion - the Omega Cookie. Each cookie is chock-full of essential nutrients like vitamin D3, calcium, gluten-free oat fiber, and seven regular fish oil capsules worth of omega-3 fatty acids. “What is not in the cookie is equally important. We’ve eliminated all processed ingredients such as trans fats, high-fructose corn syrup, and preservatives from the baking process. And each cookie contains less sugar than an apple, easily meeting the sugar limit recommended by the American Diabetes Association.” The cookies are hearty, chunky and look and taste homemade. They’re available in chocolate chip, cranberry and

ginger raisin flavors. Perfect to keep in your purse or desk at work, when you need a meal but are on the run.

Omega Passion Want something a little decadent? Omega Passion is a bitesized truffle of delectable Italian dark chocolate that holds one capsule of omega-3. It’s made from fiber, non-alkalized dark chocolate and fresh, full-spectrum omega-3 fish oil, and is only 49 calories each. Dr. Chalmers notes, “Instead of swallowing a capsule, you can eat one of these. It’s the perfect pick-me-up as an afternoon snack or a sweet ending to a meal.”

Now Offered in Travel Vials For those on the go, Omega Cure is now available in travelsized vials. TSA won’t take these from you. They’re easy to pack and hold just the right amount of Omega Cure for a daily chronic inflammation-fighting dose. From the use of fish oil in Scandinavia in the 1700s to the “cod liver oil” days of Teddy Roosevelt, the evolution of pure, good-tasting omega-3 has emerged. Omega3 Innovations has taken fish oil to a new, delicious and easy-to-swallow level. See the entire product line and order at Omega3Innovations. com, or order by phone at 866-840-4811. Born and raised in Norway, Dr. Martinsen received medical training at the University of Bordeaux in France and at the University of Oslo. He is ECFMG-certifi ed in the United States, and has extensive experience practicing psychiatry, general medicine, neurology and preventive medicine, in addition to training in epidemiology and business administration. He has served as a medical consultant to international corporations focusing on stress management and synergistic medicine. Dr. Chalmers graduated from Interlochen School for the Gifted and Brown University. She completed her medical training at the University of Oslo in Norway. Dr. Chalmers has practiced emergency, family, and preventive medicine for many years, serving at both high-tech hospitals and as a barefoot doctor in rural Norway. Her research and development work has included nutraceuticals (especially omega-3) and medical delivery device systems to facilitate ingestion of multiple medication combinations.

natural awakenings

December 2014

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Sarasota/Manatee Edition

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Sarasota , Fl orida 34231

for lifelong memories with your own spouse and kids. As the whirlwind of festivities approaches this month, don’t dismiss it as just another consumerist spending-spree, as you might have in previous years. Instead, focus your family’s attention toward more simple, yet significant pleasures – not how many gifts are stuffed under the tree, but how much laughter circulates through the house. The following pointers will offer inspiration as you start new festive rituals (or maybe even revive an old standby from your youth) this holiday season.

Embrace the Seasonal Spirit with Meaningful Traditions for the Whole Family by Mary-Elizabeth Schurrer

grew up in a household where family traditions were not only valued, but considered absolutely vital to the entire holiday season. Once the blustery weather arrived (because you can’t exactly refer to Florida temperatures as “cold,” now can you?), our celebratory rituals began. We baked Toll House cookies, sporting tacky sweaters and candy cane-patterned knee socks. We bundled ourselves in quilts for an annual VHS screening of Rudolph, the Red Nosed Reindeer. We scrambled, uninhibited by our flannel pajamas, to locate the hidden “Christmas pickle” (a custom adopted from our German heritage), which determined who would unwrap that first tantalizing present. And, throughout any given evening, Christmas carols filtered through our old-school stereo system, while flames crackled in the fireplace. We didn’t even care that this was the Sunshine State or that our Northern relatives probably mocked our “faux winter” antics, as they shoveled away evidence of an actual blizzard. On the contrary, my parents’ only concern was nurturing memories that would follow my sister and me from childhood into adulthood. Although I no longer live under my parents’ roof, their dedication to keeping such traditions alive has made a lasting impression on how I still approach these impending holidays. This time of year evokes love and warmth and profound nostalgia. The crisp air calls to mind cherished moments from holidays past. Even just catching a whiff from some passerby’s Starbucks peppermint mocha reminds me of sipping hot cocoa and hanging Disney-themed tree ornaments, while White Christmas played in the background. So, call me a product of my upbringing, but I fervently believe that special occasions, centered around meaningful traditions, can foster enduring closeness and solidarity within a family unit. Now is the ideal time to begin laying the groundwork

1. Plan an activity or getaway. Go to a local Christmas tree farm and chop down a tree together. Attend an outdoor holiday lighting ceremony, then stop for hot apple cider on the way home. Soak up the invigorating winter chill on a daylong nature hike. Take a weekend ski trip in the mountains or visit out-of town relatives. 2. Make personalized decorations. Craft one-of-akind ornaments from repurposed household materials. Set each family member to work designing a cutout snowflake, then string them all together. Gather twigs, pinecones, acorns, berry sprigs or dried leaves from your backyard and make a charmingly rustic wreath. 3. Prepare unique or exotic foods. Instead of stereotypical sugar cookies, try a recipe for eggnog truffles. Build a gingerbread beach condo together, complete with a gumdrop lanai. Go gourmet and cook duck a l’orange for Christmas dinner. Or, go quirky and order take-out lo mein from the kids’ favorite Chinese restaurant. 4. Elevate a customary cliché. Stamp a been-donebefore holiday activity with your family’s individual style. For example, don’t just sprawl on the couch to watch Elf or A Christmas Story; hang a sheet outside between two trees, spread a blanket on the grass, rent a projector and enjoy these classic films under the stars. 5. Volunteer in the community. Participate in a canned food drive or serve meals at an inner-city homeless shelter. Assemble care packages filled with toys, clothing and other gift items for patients at a local children’s hospital. Deliver sweet treats to a nursing home, then take your kids along to visit with the residents. By integrating creative, fun and family-oriented ideas into this year’s celebrations, not only will everyone experience a deep sense of bonding and belonging, but you also may find that these newly-minted traditions become unanimous favorites for many holidays to come. 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. natural awakenings

December 2014

get-togethers, visitors, travel plans and gift-buying into our already busy lives can leave us with raw nerves, depleted energy and tension throughout our bodies. Wouldn’t it be nice to have simple and effective stress-busting tools available to you at all times? Fortunately, you DO have access to these tools, and they exist within your own two hands! The ancient hands-on healing art, Jin Shin Jyutsu, offers self-care exercises that you can use anytime, anywhere to relieve stress, re-energize, and help you feel happy, relaxed and like yourself again. Widely known more than 3,000 years ago, Jin Shin Jyutsu was dramatically revived by Japanese Master Jiro Murai in 1912, after he cleared himself of a “terminal” illness. A unique healing art, Jin Shin Jyutsu is applied to the body through gentle touch and can be received from a trained practitioner or applied to one’s self. Here is a sampling of a few self-care energy-harmonizing exercises that are easy to execute and require little time investment:

Ease Holiday Stress with Jin Shin Jyutsu by Michelle Giambra

et’s be honest. Everyone knows that the joys of the holiday season are typically accompanied by a greater level of stress. The strain of our annual scramble to fit holiday season

Give yourself a big hug! • Cross your arms in front of your chest and rest your thumbs under your collarbone. • Place your hands in your underarms (right hand in left underarm, left hand in right underarm) with your fingertips touching the edge your shoulder blades, if possible. (No stressing or straining. If you’re unable to reach your shoulder blades, let your fingers rest in your underarm, as close to the edge of the shoulder blade as possible.) • Exhale. Relax into this hold. Rest your arms on your body. Drop your shoulders. Bow your head. Allow the tension and stress to melt away. • Practice “the big hug” whenever you feel overwhelmed, stressed or anxious. Hold for several minutes or until you feel the symptoms ease. • As a regular practice, hold for 10–20 minutes a day.

Hold your fingers, one at time. • Each finger relates to certain energy patterns in the body and to certain mental and emotional patterns. • Holding the fingers, one at a time, for a minute or so each, harmonizes the energetic flow and restores balance. • Simply wrap the fingers of the left hand around the right thumb. Relax. Breathe. Hold until you feel a rhythmic pulse, or until you feel tension start to ease, or for a minute or two. • Next, wrap your left hand around your right index finger. Relax. Breathe. Hold until you feel a rhythmic pulse, or until you feel tension start to ease, or for a minute or two. • Proceed in the same manner holding each finger on right hand and then each finger of your left hand. • Practice as needed for stress relief and daily for maintaining balance. 68

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36 Conscious Breaths • Sit or lie down in a comfortable position. Close your eyes. Tune into your breathing. • Simply observe and begin to count your breaths: Exhale, count 1. Notice your inhalation. It’s not necessary to “take a breath;” the inhalation will come in its own natural rhythm. Exhale, count 2. Inhale. Exhale, count 3. Inhale. • Continue until you have completed 36 exhalations and inhalations. • Practice as needed for stress relief and daily for maintaining balance. More opportunities to stay “in the ﬂow” this holiday season with local classes and specials at Suncoast Jin Shin Jyutsu:

Guided Jin Shin Jyutsu (Hands-On Self-Harmonizing Meditations) Simply relax and follow spoken instruction for hand placements on your own body to harmonize the flow of life energy. No previous experience required. Friday, December 12, 6:00 p.m.–7:15 p.m. Wednesday, December 17, 10:30 a.m.–11:45 a.m. Space is limited. Registration required.

Receive Personal Energy Balancing Sessions Rest comfortably on a massage table and receive personal energy harmonizing customized to your needs. Pay for one one-hour session, get the second half-price! Gift

certificates available! (Purchase by 12/31/14. Use by 1/31/15.) Thirty Minute Thursdays! Short on time, but need a quick pick-me-up? Receive 30 minutes of rejuvenation, just enough time to get the edge off and reset body, mind, and spirit. (Special pricing in December. Select times only. Not available December 25.)

Coming in 2015: Classes and PlayShops! Learn Jin Shin Jyutsu Self-Care to maintain your wellbeing and to support healing of discomfort, pain and disease. Be empowered in one of our in-house offerings or request a class customized to meet your group’s interests and needs. Location: Suncoast Jin Shin Jyutsu in Rosemary Court. For more information, call 941-228-2972, email Michelle@ SuncoastJSJ.com, or visit SuncoastJSJ.com. The Jin Shin Jyutsu information provided in this article is intended to complement, not replace, the advice of your own physician or other healthcare professional. A 2013 Natural Awakenings (“Nattie”) Awards “Favorite Energy Healer,” Certifi ed Jin Shin Jyutsu Practitioner Michelle Giambra, LMT has over 16 years’ experience providing Jin Shin Jyutsu to individuals and families addressing acute, chronic, and serious health projects (such as cancer and ALS), along with those interested in maintaining wellness. She offers individual sessions and teaches self-care, and is available for home and hospital visits.

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December 2014

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Public Schools are permitted to make information available to parents regarding student activities offered by non-for-profit organizations. The School Board Districts of Sarasota and Manatee County provides this information as a service to students and their families. Distribution of this information does not constitute endorsement of these activities.

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natural awakenings

December 2014

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Presents

UNITY NOW Helping you move into your highest God-potential Everyone accepted and celebrated 2 Services: 10:00 and 11:30 am

Theme for December Ways to Celebrate the Christ Consciousness 4200 32nd Street West Bradenton, FL 917-737-6582 www.unitychurchinthewoods.org

5041 Ringwood Meadow, Bldg. G-2, Sarasota, FL 34235 941-371-9333 www.ccosl.com

SUNDAY SERVICES 10:30 AM ~ Universal New Thought Service with Rev. Zan Benham 12:15 PM ~ A Cosmic In-Service Gathering of Lightworkers with Rev. Sharon-Elizabeth James 3:00 PM ~ Open Arms Spiritualist Service with Spirit Messages with Mediums Rev. Mary Linn & Rev. Thomas Clarke.

Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light Embracing the New Paradigms of our Awakening Consciousness: Ascended Masters, Classes, Essential Oil, Healing, Lightwork, Meditation, Mediumship, Speakers, Spirituality, UFOs, and more...

Check out our Cosmic Website at www.CCOSL.com 72

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

SPECIAL EVENT Dr. Michael Ulm, D. Min., CCI International Healer, Teacher & Intuitive A Healing Miracles Services Nov. 10 & 14, 2014, 7 -9pm Love Offering. Available for Private Healings Wednesday Dec. 10 and Thursday Dec. 11.

siaKite.com. Palmetto Art Center, 907 5th St W, Palmetto, 941-518-2109, PalmettoArtCenter.com.

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.

daily TUESDAY, DECEMBER 2 Alternative to Surgery – 6-7pm. Learn about the new non-surgical options available to heal joints, tendons and muscles using stem cells as well as Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP). Gecko Joint & Spine, 2033 Wood St, #210, Sarasota, 941-330-8553, GeckoJointAndSpine.com. Healing Service – 7-7:45pm. Come relax and benefit from a very pleasant guided meditation, handson healing, and mental healing for those named by attendees. A 45-min service duration. Love Offering. Center for Metaphysical Fellowship, 2044 Bispham Rd, Sarasota, 941-266-8435, CMFSarasota.org. Conquer the Cosmos – 7-8:30pm. Join us for an exciting evening as Bridgett Walther releases her book Harness Astrology’s Bad Boy: A Handbook for Conquering Pluto’s Tumultuous Transit. In this wickedly funny guidebook, world-renowned astrologers Hazel Dixon-Cooper and Walther show you how to use this unique time to overcome fear, guilt, regret and self-punishment, and find your place in the cosmos. Love Donation. Starflower Organic Spathecary, 415 S Pineapple Ave, Burns Square, Sarasota, 941-554-4292, Starflower.com. Intuition Practicum – 7-9pm. An experiential class in accessing and building your intuition muscle. $20. The Cosmic Center, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, Ellen Lapierre 941-24-9684, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3 Free Healing Clinic – 4-7pm. 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. Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice, 941-4924995, RevPat@AngelMinistriesFL.org, AngelMinistriesFL.org.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4 Zumba Glow-in-the-Dark Party – 5:30-7pm. Come dressed in white or neon colors and glow while dancing to exhilarating international rhythms and having tons of fun! $15/Pre-registration required, Beach Life Wellness, 301 Albee Rd W, Nokomis, 941-244-2006, BeachLifeWellness.com. Spiritual Wake-Up Calls – 6:30-7:30pm. Introductory discussion about spiritual experiences, past lives, dreams & Soul Travel. Free Spiritual Experiences Guidebook, includes CD. Florida Satsang Society, Venice Library, 300 S Nokomis Ave, Venice, 941-358-0325. Sarasota Health and Wellness Class – 7-9pm. An introduction to Essential Oils and their therapeutic uses. Kristy West RN. $5. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg. G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5 Psychic Intuitive & Trance Channel Readings – 10:30am-5:30pm. Sherry Lord is a versatile channel who can answer your questions, both business and

personal, and help you on your spiritual path. 15 min/$35; 30 min/ $65; 60 min/$100; Deep Trance Channel Sessions 50 min/$150. Elysian Fields, 1273 Tamiami Trl S, Sarasota, 941-361-3006, ElysianFieldsOnline.com. Palmetto’s Christmas in the Park – 5-9pm. Performances. Santa rides in on a fire truck and will take photos with the children; crafts, food vendors, Alex’s Lemonade Stand. Free. Palmetto Historical Park, 515 10 Ave W, Palmetto, 941-723-4570. Full Moon Women’s Meditation – 6:30-8:30pm. Experienced practitioners from different spiritual disciplines focus on the raising of human consciousness. Author & peace activist Ruth Fishel leads a Buddhist Mindfulness meditation. Love offering. Rising Tide, 5102 Swift Rd, Sarasota, Jo Mooy 941-355-1414. 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 donation. Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice, 941-492-4995, RevPat@AngelMinistriesFL. org, AngelMinistriesFL.org. Couples Weekend Getaway & Workshop – 7pmSun 2pm. 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. More info, other dates & locations, brochure, 941-349-6804, IntimacyRetreats.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6 Clearing Your Karma – 1-3pm. Using the energy of the Angels through Integrated Energy Therapy, learn to eliminate repetitive negative patterns in your representing karmic energies needing clearing. $30. Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice, 941-492-4995, RevPat@AngelMinistriesFL.org, AngelMinistriesFL.org. Power of the Name – 2-4pm. Power of The Name is a useful tool in understanding more about persons who have passed on or who are missing. This tool is a way to deepen our connection to spirit while assisting them in providing us with messages to help them as well as those left behind. $20, Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice, 941-492-4995, RevPat@AngelMinistriesFL.org, AngelMinistriesFL.org. Yin Yoga – 3-6pm. A very simple practice, settling into an asana for 3-7 minutes, slowly relaxing our muscles. Beginner-friendly. $40/by 12-4; $50/ door. CircuSoul Yoga, 4141 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota. Sign-up CircuSoul.com. Tim Jaeger’s 10 Big Portraits & Cassia Kite’s Sentimentals – Dec 6 Opening Reception 6-9pm. Dec 6-30 Exhibition Mon-Fri, Noon-2pm; closed Weds. Combined event, showcasing new works of Sarasota-based artists Tim Jaeger and Cassia Kite, offers art lovers and curious critics an evening of family-friendly indulgence and wonder. Jaeger’s portraits are inherently a celebration of a life, a memorialization of the inner essence of the subject, not just a literal likeness, Regeaj.com. Kite’s series consists of intimate hand stitches and miniature works representative of landscapes and objects, yet embody the concept of portraiture, Cas-

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7 Arm Balance, Hips & Handstands – 1-3:30pm. Workshop uses yin/yang approach. $35/by 12-5; $45/door. CircuSoul Yoga, 4141 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota. Sign-up CircuSoul.com. A JOURNEY WITHIN – 3-4:30pm. Medium Susan Houliston guides each participant on an individual journey to a place, Your Place, where you can possibly meet with loved ones and guides. You will be instructed how to return to Your Place again and again and then be grounded before making your journey home. $20 Donation. Center for Metaphysical Fellowship, 2044 Bispham Rd, 941266-8435, CMFSarasota.org.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 8 Tai Chi – 10am. Jack Barker, Certified TCA & FLEX instructor under Dr Paul Lam’s Tai Chi for Health Institute. $30/6 weeks; Free/Silver Sneakers Members. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9 Reducing Anxiety and Improving Mood – 6:308pm. Keep calm and carry on is not always easy, especially during the holidays. Learn simple remedies to quiet your nervous system, with Full Spectrum Health’s Eve Plews, licensed by Florida Board as Nutrition Counselor and Institute for Functional Medicine as Certified Practitioner. $10 Donation to WSLR. WSLR, 525 Kumquat Ct, Sarasota. Info@ FullSpectrumHealth.com, 941-952-1200. Love Circle – 7-8:30pm. This event, led by Lucia Gabriela, LiberatingInnerBeauty.com, is designed to gather our community and create a sacred space for healing. Come together to share struggles, diseases, pain, suffering and life obstacles; practice a guided meditation and offer it all to the Purification Love Fire (Violet Flame). Receive support from like-minded people. Starflower Organic Spathecary, 415 S Pineapple Ave, Sarasota, 941-5544292, Starflower.com. Zenith, the Language of Light – 7-9pm. Opens pathways to develop intuitive communication skills with Beings from a higher realm and to easily clear the deepest of issues of life towards wholeness and love. Prerequisite: completion of the Zenith Foundational series. $20. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadow, Bldg. G-2, Sarasota, Brian Foster 941-323-3606, Brian@RadiantHealingEnergy.com, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10 Spirit Jacob & Healing Entities – 6-7pm. Medium Susan Houliston brings Jacob Eternal and the healing entities group called The We. Messages and healing provided with opportunity for Q&A discussion. No one admitted after 6pm. $20 Donation. Center for Metaphysical Fellowship, 2044 Bispham Rd, 941-966-9223, CMFSarasota.org. Healing Service – 7-9pm. Healing Miracles Service with Dr. Michael Ulm D Min, CCI, Int’l Teacher, Healer and Intuitive. Love Offering. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg. G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11 Intuitive & Healer Readings – 10:30am-5:30pm. Deborah Chadwick is able to communicate with her guides and angels, quickly receiving very specific information for her clients. 15 min/$30; 30 min/$60. Elysian Fields, 1273 Tamiami Trl S, Sarasota, 941-361-3006, ElysianFieldsOnline.com.

natural awakenings

December 2014

Turn Your Passion Into a Business

Bring a Natural Awakenings Magazine to Your Community or Select One of Our Existing Markets!

Yoga Therapy Training – Dec 11-14. Todd Norian leads 4-day workshop for yoga teachers and experienced yoga students. Through life-affirming yogic philosophy and the precise alignment techniques of Ashaya Yoga™, learn how to transform pain and limitation into freedom and joy. Training includes guided asana instruction in Ashaya Yoga™, tantric philosophy, therapeutic exercises, demos, skillful observation, hands-on techniques and basic anatomy. $495; $80/session. Garden of the Heart Yoga Center, 2888 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, Info & Registration, 941-341-9781, Cheryl@ GardenOfTheHeartyoga.com, GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com.

Become a Natural Awakenings Publisher! • Meaningful Career • Comprehensive Training • Ongoing Support • Marketing Tools • Low Investment • Work from Home As a Natural Awakenings publisher, you’ll have the opportunity to inspire and support your community by providing the tools and resources the readers need to live a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. No publishing experience is necessary. You’ll work for yourself but not by yourself. We offer a complete training and support system that allows you to successfully publish your own magazine. Be part of a dynamic franchised publishing network that is helping to transform the way we live and care for ourselves. Now available in Spanish as well.

For more information, visit our website NaturalAwakeningsMag.com/mymagazine or call 239-530-1377

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12 Natural Awakenings publishes • • • •

Starﬂ ower’s Holiday Partythe – 6-8pm. In in over 95Festive markets across appreciation of another successful year, Starflower U.S. and Puerto Rico invites you to their annual holiday party for healthy nibbles, drinks and holiday cheer, being held durBirmingham, AL • Monmouth/Ocean, NJ ing Burns Court 2nd • Fridays neighborhood exHuntsville, AL North NJ* travaganza! Starflower Organic Spathecary, 415 S Mobile/Baldwin, AL* • North Central NJ Pineapple Ave, Burns Sq, Sarasota, 941-554-4292, Little Rock/Hot Spg., AR* Starfl ower.com. • South NJ*

• Phoenix, AZ

• Santa Fe/Abq., NM

Qi Gong – 7-8pm. Qi gong opens pathways to cir-

• culate Tucson, AZ • Las Vegas, NV & stimulate the body’s internal processes to for the smooth flow of qi (energy), which can • allow East Bay Area, CA • Albany, NY

strength and produce vitality. $10. Angel • increase San Diego, CA • Central NY

Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice, 941-492-

• 4995, Denver/Boulder, CO • Long Island, NY AngelMRevPat@AngelMinistriesFL.org, • inistriesFL.org. Fairfield County, CT • Manhattan, NY • Hartford, CT

• Queens, NY

• Rochester, NY13 SATURDAY, DECEMBER

• New Haven/ Middlesex, CT

• Rockland/Orange, NY Seminar at Publix – 9-11am. Learn • Nutrition Washington, D.C. • Syracuse, NY how to make better choices, read labels and find • Daytona/Volusia/ Westchester/ healthy food choices at• Publix. Free/Current PerFlagler, FL Putnam, NY

sonal Training Customers; $12/Prepaid. Beach

• Life NW FL Emerald Coast Wellness, 301 Albee Rd W, Nokomis, 941• Central OH BeachLifeWellness.com. • 244-2006, Ft. Lauderdale, FL • Cincinnati, OH

• Creating Jacksonville/St. Aug., FL • Toledo, OH A Manifesting Your Life – 9:30am-4pm. • Circle Melbourne/Vero, FL with Bill Bowers,• growing a grid to peel off Oklahoma City, OK and unconscious blocks. $125. The • self-sabotage Miami & Florida Keys* • Portland, OR*

Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood • B941-371-9333, ucks/Montgomery Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, CCOSL. • com, North Central FL* Counties, PA BillBowersGuidance.com, ChakraBlue14@ • yahoo.com. Orlando, FL* • Harrisburg/York, PA • Naples/Fort Myers, FL

• Palm Beach, FL

• Lancaster, PA Psychic Fair – 10am-3pm. Are you searching, ques-

• tioning, Peace River, FL • Lehigh Valley, PA seeking answers? Choose from some of the Intuitive Artists in • thePocono, PA/ area. See what your fu• best Sarasota, FL ture holds! Free healing and refreshments. Private Warren Co., NJ • Tampa/St. Pete., FL

Readings $15/15 min. • Angel Ministries, 2269 S Rhode Island • Tamiami FL’s Treasure Coast Trl, Venice, 941-492-4995, RevPat@An• Charleston, SC AngelMinistriesFL.org. • gelMinistriesFL.org, Atlanta, GA • Columbia, SC • Hawaiian Islands

Our Personal Connection to God – 2-3pm. Intro-

• Grand Strand, SC* • ductory Chicago, IL discussion about spiritual experiences, past • Greenville, SC lives, dreams & Soul Travel. Free Spiritual Experi• Indianapolis, IN Guidebook, includes CD. Gulf Gate Library • Chattanooga, TN • ences Baton Rouge, LA

in Westfield Mall, 8201• S Knoxville, TN Tamiami, Sarasota, 941• 358-0325, Lafayette, LAMeetUp.com/EckankarInSarasota. • Memphis, TN • New Orleans, LA* Restorative Yoga Workshop – 3-5:30pm. Props • Austin, TX

• Boston, MA

are used for support so• poses can be held longer, Dallas Metroplex, TX • allowing Portland, ME the body to open through passive stretch. • Dallas/FW Metro N 12-11; $45/after. CircuSoul Yoga, 4141 S • $35/by Ann Arbor, MI Trl, Sarasota. • Sign-up CircuSoul.com. Galveston, TX • Tamiami East Michigan • Houston, TX • Starﬂ Wayne County, MI ower Facial Party – 3-5:30pm. Get ready San Antonio, TX a new season with a• customized evaluation and • for Western MI learn how to execute the five essential steps to or• Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN • Richmond, VA

ganic beauty. Starflower Spathecary, 415 • Organic VA’s Blue Ridge • S Asheville, NC* Pineapple Ave, Sarasota, 941-554-4292, Star• Seattle, WA ower.com. • fl Charlotte, NC • Madison, WI • Lake Norman, NC Past Life Regression – 4-6pm. Remember old

• Milwaukee, WI • talents Triangle NC and abilities. Remove fears and unknown Puerto Rico more about your true • phobias. Central NJHave fun and • learn

$20. Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, • self. Hudson County, NJ* *Existing magazines

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

• Mercer County, NJ

for sale

Venice, 941-492-4995, RevPat@AngelMinistriesFL.org, AngelMinistriesFL.org.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21

The Happiness Hour – 5pm. An uplifting hour of upbeat music, calming meditation and a spiritual message to entertain and enlighten. Built on social interaction, fun and real world spiritual practices. $10, Bayfront Community Center (behind the Municipal Auditorium), 803 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, 941-484-8782, TheHappinessHour.com.

Community HU Song – 10-11am. HU is an ancient name for God. When sung as a pure prayer of love, it opens your heart to God’s Love for you. 30 min, followed by light refreshments. AmericInn, 5931 Fruitville Rd (W of I-75), Sarasota, 941-3580325, MeetUp.com/EckankarInSarasota.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14 Healing Service – 7-9pm. Healing Miracles Service with Dr. Michael Ulm D Min, CCI, Int’l Teacher, Healer and Intuitive. Love Offering. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg. G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 15 Five Things You Should Know about Your Low Back – 6:30-8pm. No part of the body receives more stress than the low back. Learn about alignment, strengthening and pain relief naturally, with Ken DiPersio, a Licensed Massage and Neuromuscular Therapist with 25 years of clinical experience working with people who are not reaching therapeutic goals through medical intervention. $15. Full Spectrum Health, 2106 Bispham Rd, Sarasota, 941-952-1200, Info@FullSpectrumHealth.com.

tuesday, DECEMBER 16 Alternative to Surgery – 6-7pm. Learn about the new non-surgical options available to heal joints, tendons and muscles using stem cells as well as Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP). Gecko Joint & Spine, 2033 Wood St, #210, Sarasota, 941-330-8553, GeckoJointAndSpine.com. Zenith, the Language of Light – 7-9pm. Opens pathways to develop intuitive communication skills with Beings from a higher realm and to easily clear the deepest of issues of life towards wholeness and love. Prerequisite: completion of the Zenith Foundational series. $20. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadow, Bldg. G-2, Sarasota, Brian Foster 941-323-3606, Brian@RadiantHealingEnergy.com, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17

New Moon Wiccan Winter Solstice – 4:306:30pm. Karmic regression practitioner Patricia Walsh leads a Wiccan New Year ceremony with meditation. Drummers & dancers join this ceremony. Men, women and children are invited to attend. Donation/The Mayor’s Feed the Hungry Program. South Lido Beach State Park, Jo Mooy 941355-1414. Special Holiday Service and Winter Solstice Celebration – 7pm. Ministers of the Cosmic Center come together for a special Holiday Program. Love Offering. The Cosmic Center, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25

THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2015 JOY, PEACE & PROSPERITY in the NEW YEAR

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2 Full Moon Women’s Meditation – 6:30-8:30pm. Experienced practitioners from different spiritual disciplines focus on the raising of human consciousness. Intuitive & author Mary Getten leads a dolphin & whale meditation. Love offering. Rising Tide, 5102 Swift Rd, Sarasota, Jo Mooy 941-355-1414.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 10 Nutrition Seminar – 9-11am. Learn how to make better choices, read labels and find healthy food choices. $20/Prepaid, Beach Life Wellness, 301 Albee Rd W, Nokomis, 941-244-2006, BeachLifeWellness.com. 8-Week Challenge – 9-11am. Eight weeks of unlimited fitness classes, nutrition fundamentals workshops, 3lb. bag of protein shake, weigh-ins, fun with peers, and unlimited support. $295, Beach Life Wellness, 301 Albee Rd W, Nokomis, 941244-2006, BeachLifeWellness.com.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 26 HAPPY KWANZAA New Years’ Couples Getaway & Workshop – 7pm-Sun 2pm. Join Richard & Diana Daffner, authors of Tantric Sex for Busy Couples. Rekindle your passion. Celebrate your love. Connect with your beloved on a soul level. Transform your relationship into a love affair. $695/couple, Siesta Key Beach, Sarasota. More info, other dates & locations, brochure, 941-349-6804, IntimacyRetreats.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 27 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 min. Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice, 941-492-4995, RevPat@AngelMinistriesFL.org, AngelMinistriesFL.org.

Reiki III Master Share – 7-9pm. Masters of all lineages come together to share, expand, enhance and brush up on their Reiki. Wear comfortable clothes. $5 Suggested Donation. Rising Tide, 5102 Swift Rd, Sarasota. Rev Zan Benham, 941-9227839, Zan@Woman-Spirit.com.

Heartbeat of the Drum – 5-6pm. This guided meditation at sundown by Rev Yvonne Graham has the intent of manifesting abundance in your life. This is a powerful and effective technique for achieving the success, satisfaction and happiness you desire. $10/donation. Center for Metaphysical Fellowship, 2044 Bispham Rd, 941-266-8435, CMFSarasota.org.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 28

AMC Basic Integrated Energy Therapy – 10am4pm. Learn to conduct the 5-min empowerment self-balancing & clearing session; become familiar with Energy Anatomy and Cellular Memory Map; “Read” energy; Conduct a full Basic-level IET session. $180/0.5 Credit. Angel Ministries College, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice, 941-492-4995, RevPat@AngelMinistriesFL.org, AngelMinistriesFL.org.

ECK Worship Service – 10-11am. How Do You Find God? Join others in exploring effective spiritual techniques to open your heart to the inner truth of God. AmericInn, 5931 Fruitville Rd (W of I-75), Sarasota, 941-358-0325, MeetUp.com/EckankarInSarasota.

Crystal Awareness – 2-4pm. Join us in an exploration of the Crystal Kingdom. Learn about the different types of crystals, their prophetic and healing properties, and how the crystal grids are connected throughout the world. $20. Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice, 941-492-4995, RevPat@ AngelMinistriesFL.org, AngelMinistriesFL.org.

New Year’s Anchoring Light Meditation Service – 10pm. Rev Sharon-Elizabeth James channels this special anchoring light meditation. Serving the Ascension of our planet with the Ascended Realms as Anchors of Light. Love Offering. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com.

HAPPY HANUKKAH

plan ahead

Wednesday, DECEMBER 31

MONDAY, JANUARY 12 AMC Awakening to a Life of Joy – 7-9pm. This 10-week college course takes you on a profound and safe journey of self-discovery in order to clear the way to living a more peaceful, loving and joyful life, and so much more. $200/2 AMC Credits. Angel Ministries College, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice, 941-492-4995, RevPat@AngelMinistriesFL.org, AngelMinistriesFL.org.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 13 Mind & Energy – 7-9pm. This 10-week course is designed to enable the student to understand the power of the mind and how we can use it to achieve a higher understanding of our spiritual nature and so much more! $200/2 AMC Credits. Angel Ministries College, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice, 941-492-4995, RevPat@AngelMinistriesFL. org, AngelMinistriesFL.org.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 23 Forks & Corks Food & Wine Festival – Jan 23-25. Forks & Corks University and Winemaker Events Jan 23-24 ; Grand Tasting Jan 25, Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, Tickets DineOriginal.com/forksandcorks.

FRIDAY, MARCH 27 DaySpring Retreat – Mar 27-29. The weekend Women’s Spiritual Retreats are filled with returning students every year so new students cannot attend. For that reason, this Women’s Commuter Retreat is offered for new attendees only. Retreat size is limited to 20 women. Cost for 3 days includes lunches, a bound book, and canvas tote bag. Come and enjoy a weekend along the banks of the Manatee River on 96 acres of park-like setting. DaySpring Retreat Center, 8411 25th St, Ellenton. Info/Reservations, JoMooy@gmail.com, 941-3551414. Starsoundings.com.

natural awakenings

December 2014

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

sunday Beach Yoga for Everybody – 9-10am/Nov-April. Relax, breathe, stretch & greet the beautiful morning on beautiful Englewood Beach (N end). Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood. 941473-0135, Lata528@gmail.com, LovingLightYoga.com. One from the Heart Healing Sessions – 9:3010:15am. Center of Spiritual Awareness healing practitioners offer 15-min sessions to bring a state of wholeness to body, mind, and spirit. Free. Fruitville Rd (Knights of Columbus Bldg), 941-9267828. Discover Your Spiritual Home – 10am. With Rev Karen Wolfson. Center for Spiritual Living Sarasota, South Gate Community Center, 3145 S Gate Cir, Sarasota. 941-927-6212. CSLSarasota.com. Hatha Yoga with Jamie Coffey – 10-11am. A creative blend of yoga styles based on the teacher’s background. The class helps to build strength and increase flexibility. $14; $50/5. Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. 941-952-5280. RosemaryCourt.com. Mixed Levels Yoga with Cindy – 10-11:30am. Alignment-based yoga suitable for anyone with previous yoga experience. Learn standing poses, twists, back bends, seated bends & inversions at your own pace. More options given for beginning or advanced students. $15; $88/8. Garden of the Heart Yoga, 2888 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, 941341-9781, GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com. Sunday Worship Service – 10:30am. Start your week refreshed. Join the CMF for a morning of inspiration, spiritual healing, inspirational talk, special music and Spirit messages from guides and loved ones. Center for Metaphysical Fellowship, 2044 Bispham Rd, Sarasota, 941-266-8435. CMFSarasota.org. A Cosmic New Thought Service – 10:30-11:30am. A metaphysical universal service with music, talk,

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

meditation and chants, to educate & expand our understanding and concepts to clarify and empower our connection with Infinite Spirit, Divine Source. Free energy healings. Love offering. The Cosmic Center, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. Rev Zan Benham 941-922-7839, Zan@ Woman-Spirit.com, CCOSL.com. Aerial Yoga – 11:30am-12:45pm. With Mandy. All levels. Begins with basic mat work & progresses to using a soft fabric yoga inversion swing. $15; $12/ senior/student. 6260 N Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota. 941-359-9642. ReflexArts.com. Cosmic In-Service – 12:15-1:30pm. Gathering of Lightworkers. A call to Planetary World Servers to anchor Light and work with our family of light to bridge Heaven and Earth. Love Offering. The Cosmic Center, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. Rev Sharon Elizabeth James, 941-3719333. CCOSL.com. Candlelight Healing Meditation – 3pm. Open Arms Spiritualist Service 3:30pm. Inspired talks and messages with Rev Mary Linn & Rev Thomas Clarke, Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Mdws Village Center, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com.

monday Beach Yoga for Everybody – 9-10am/Nov-April. Relax, breathe, stretch & greet the beautiful morning on beautiful Englewood Beach (N end). Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood, 941473-0135, Lata528@gmail.com, LovingLightYoga.com. Workout with Lucho – Mon & Weds: 9:1510am. F.I.T. Functional Interval Training. Improve strength, flexibility and heart health using your own body combined with resistance and cardio exercises. All levels. $12/Prepaid, Beach Life Wellness, 301 Albee Rd W, Nokomis, 941-244-2006, BeachLifeWellness.com. Tai Chi – Starting Dec 8. 10am. Jack Barker, Certified TCA & FLEX instructor under Dr Paul Lam’s Tai Chi for Health Institute. $30/6 weeks; Free/

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Silver Sneakers Members. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com. Selby Galleries I & II – Oct 31-Dec10. Mon-Sat 10am-4pm; Tues, 10am-7pm. Evan Roth, Intellectual Property Donor. The worlds of hacking and art intersect in Roth’s powerful work. Organized by the Ezra and Cecile Zilkha Gallery, Center for the Arts, Wesleyan University Middletown, CT, and curated by Ginger Duggan and Judith Hoos Fox of CuratorSquared.com. Free. Selby Gallery, Ringling College of Art & Design campus, ½ blk E of 2700 N Tamiami Trl on Dr MLK Jr Way, Sarasota, 941-359-7563, 941-351-5100. TJaeger@Ringling. edu, Ringling.edu/SelbyGallery. Intermediate Yoga with Jen – 11am-12:30pm. This alignment-based yoga class is geared toward students who have been practicing yoga for at least 6 months. Poses build from week to week for a progressive learning experience. Dropins welcome. $15; $88/8. Garden of the Heart Yoga, 2888 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, 941-3419781, GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com. Transitions Support Group – 5-6:30pm. A support group that helps cope with the reality of traumatic changes. Discover resources & chart strategies to achieve priority goals. Six sessions are recommended. Free. Transition Church, 2215 Sunset Dr, Ste E1, Bradenton. 941-739-7103. RevDCT@ Verizon.net. Zumba with Carla – 5:30-6:30pm. Forget the workout, Join the party! Dance yourself into shape listening to the exotic & exhilarating rhythms of Latin and international beats. Just lose yourself in the music at the original dance-fitness party. All levels welcome. $12/Prepaid, Beach Life Wellness, 301 Albee Rd W, Nokomis, 941-244-2006, BeachLifeWellness.com. Mixed Levels Yoga with Randall – 5:30-7pm. This alignment-based yoga class is geared toward students who have been practicing yoga for at least 6 months. Inversion options will be taught in this class to prepare you for headstands, handstands, and shoulderstands. Dropins welcome. $15; $88/8. Garden of the Heart Yoga, 2888 Ringling Blvd, 941-341-9781. GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com. Automatic Writing Class – 6-7pm. With Melissa Parks learn how to open up and then practice communications with spirit loved ones and guides. Most students pick up this skill quickly. Enjoy learning this communication method. $10/Donation, Center for Metaphysical Fellowship, 2044 Bispham Rd, Sarasota, 941-266-9250, CMFSarasota.org.

Booty Beat! – 6:40pm & Friday 9:15am. Experience the fabulous feeling that dancing gives you, while reaping the benefits of strength and cardio. This fabulous and super fun dance fitness class allows you to let loose and condition the entire body inside out! $10, Packages available, Fly Dance Fitness, 999 Cattleman Rd, Sarasota, 941-400-0020, FlyDanceFitness.com.

Belly Dance Fundamentals – 5:30-6:30pm. Belly Dancing is natural to a woman’s bone and muscle structure with movements emanating from the torso. Join us as we focus on the basic isolations essential for the beginner as well as the professional dancer. $12/Prepaid, Beach Life Wellness, 301 Albee Rd W, Nokomis, 941-244-2006, BeachLifeWellness.com.

Forgiveness Support Group – 7-8:30pm. Forgiveness in Aramaic is to cancel, untie or let loose. It’s a tool for changing a reality in the mind. This is one of the core messages of Why is this Happening to Me Again? $10. Unity Church of Sarasota. 941776-7465. UnityOfSarasota.com.

Advanced Practice – 5:30-7:15pm. Tuesday nights are a teacher-led practice where strong yogis can come to learn advanced sequences and poses. Knowledge of alignment is expected. Led by Jaye Martin or Cheryl Chaffee alternate weeks. Advanced students from other styles are welcome. $15; $88/8. Garden of the Heart Yoga, 2888 Ringling Blvd, 941-341-9781. GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com.

Anchoring the Light Meditation – 7:458:45pm. Rev Sharon-Elizabeth James channels anchoring the light meditation. Serving the Ascension of our planet with the Ascended Realms as Anchors of Light. Every Monday since 2007. Love Offering. The Cosmic Center, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333. CCOSL. com. Chakra Clearing & Alignment – Spiritual guidance from Rev Duffy Rutledge using the Crystal Bed from John of God. $25. Call for appointments. 941-926-7828. Yoga Classes – Mon, Tues, Wed. A variety of styles. Ionie Body Mind Retreat/Raw Food Café, 1241 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota. Info 941-955-4599, Ionie.com.

tuesday Beach Yoga for Everybody – 9-10am/Nov-April. Relax, breathe, stretch & greet the beautiful morning on beautiful Englewood Beach (N end). Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood. 941473-0135, Lata528@gmail.com, LovingLightYoga.com. TRX Training Basics – Tues & Thurs: 9:1510am. Learn how to safely use this Suspension Training System used today by all branches in the US Military and in fitness & rehabilitation programs all over the world. Basic yet challenging full body workout. $12/Prepaid, Beach Life Wellness, 301 Albee Rd W, Nokomis, 941-244-2006, BeachLifeWellness.com. Hot Vinyasa Yoga – 11am-12:15pm. Combines upbeat music, interesting transitions, & fulfilling vinyasas to begin the week. Betsy is experienced & continues to grow & evolve this beautiful practice. $15, Class cards available. 6260 N Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota. 941-359-9642. ReflexArts.com. Chair Yoga – Noon-1pm. Also Thurs. With Carol. Perfect for those that struggle with flexibility or balance demands of a traditional yoga class. Benefits of asana, pranayama, & short meditation. $15, $12/Senior. Reflex Arts, 6260 N Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota. 941-359-9642. ReflexArts.com. Family Yoga with Jen – 4:30-5:15pm. Got Kids? Love yoga? Family yoga is the perfect class for kids and parents (or grandparents!) to enjoy yoga together. Explore stretching, strengthening, games, music, and growing healthy bodies together. For families with kids ages 4+. $20; $90/6-week session, Garden of the Heart Yoga, 2888 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, 941-341-9781, GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com.

The Essentials Yoga Class – 5:45-7pm. An active class appropriate for most levels, focusing on essential yoga postures to improve one’s skeletal alignment, balance, flexibility & strength. Learn to release stress & enhance breathing. $14; $80/8. Yoga Arts, Bradenton. 941-747-9397. Avatar Intro Nights – 6-9pm. With Sonia Morisette, Avatar Master. Explore how beliefs affect reality. Awaken new possibilities and discover the preciousness of life. The Avatar course is inspiring and empowering. Free. RSVP 941-928-1554. Sai Maa Satsang & Blessing – 7-8:30pm. 1st Mon. A spiritual gathering, meditation & blessing to strengthen connection to self, truth & healing. Uses Sai Maa teachings & transformational healing. Free. Central Sarasota location. 941-487-7077. Sai-Maa.com. Zen Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Tues & Thurs. Led by spiritual director, Rev Daito Zenei Thompson. Consists of 2/20-min meditations, separated by a 5-min walking meditation. Ends with tea & conversation. Free. Sarasota Zen Center, 3947 Clark Rd, Ste A, Sarasota. 941-451-6988. SarasotaZen.org. Intro to Buddhist Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Intro to meditation (6 varieties) from an authentic Tibetan Buddhist perspective, along with chats about Buddhist philosophy. $45/6 classes. Unitarian Universalist Church of Sarasota, 3975 Fruitville Rd. 941-552-8466. Saratara@gmail.com. Reiki Sessions – With Reiki Master Mary Kane. Spa De Vries, 3534 Osprey Ave, Sarasota. 941706-1157.

wednesday Early Morning Yoga with Jaye – 6-7:30am. Alignment-based yoga class geared toward students who have been practicing yoga for at least 6 months. Greet the day with yoga. $15; $88/8. Garden of the Heart Yoga, 2888 Ringling Blvd, 941341-9781. GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com Beach Yoga for Everybody – 9-10am/Nov-April. Relax, breathe, stretch & greet the beautiful morning on beautiful Englewood Beach (N end). Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood, 941473-0135, Lata528@gmail.com, LovingLightYoga.com. Restorative/Therapeutic Yoga – 10-11:15am. This class combines therapeutic movement & restorative postures. Suited for people unable to practice yoga in its more active form. Movements

classifieds Fee for classifieds is $1 per word per month (20 word minimum). To place listing, submit online at nasrq.com. Or call 941-564-0885 ext. 306 for more information. Deadline is the 12th of the month. PRODUCTS 100% ORGANIC, NON-GMO, CUSTOMIZED NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS. HIPPA-protected assessment ensures that nothing interferes with prescriptions or medical conditions. Free of gluten, casein, soy, artificial colors, flavors, fillers. 859-620-2055, ANourishedLife.IDLife.com. are gentle & well-supported. $14; $80/8. Yoga Arts, Bradenton. 941-747-9397. Five Points Park Farmers Market – 10am-2pm. Omega Cure bottles, vials, cookies and chocolates available. Stop by, say hi, try a sample. First St & N Pineapple Ave, Sarasota, Omega3Innovations.com. Core Tone-Up – 11:15am-12:30pm. A therapeutic flow of yoga and Pilates taught by a certified teacher in both. Beg-Int levels. Develop strong posture, healthy spine & joints, pelvic stability, balance, respiration, and all of yoga’s other benefits. $15; $10/10. Alive with Yoga, 7512 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, 941-302-1004, AlivewithYoga.com. Kundalini Yoga with Dev Atma – 11:30am12:45pm. Classes includes gentle warm ups, a set of postures, movements, breathing techniques, and relaxation, followed by meditation utilizing mantra, breath, and oftentimes the healing vibration of the Gong. $14; $50/5. Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. 941-952-5280. RosemaryCourt.com. Gentle Flow Yoga with Harmony – 1-2:30pm. Hatha yoga class perfect for students of all levels, including beginners. Reduce stress and increase flexibility and strength with yoga. Each Gentle Flow class ends with Yoga Nidra for a relaxing state of mind and body. $15; $88/8. Garden of the Heart Yoga, 2888 Ringling Blvd, 941-341-9781, GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com. TRX Chisel with Carla – 3-4pm. Intense fitness class working all of your muscles using TRX Suspension Training with a combination of the best basic exercises including squats, presses, lifts, curls, pushes, pulls, and more! $15, Beach Life Wellness, 301 Albee Rd W, Nokomis, 941-2442006, BeachLifeWellness.com. Tea with the Goddesses – 4:30-6:30pm. The Goddess Love Circle of Sarasota meet-up with other amazing Goddesses. Relax, chat, share wisdom, receive support from others and hold space for mind, body, heart and soul healing. Elixir Tea Shop, 1926 Hillview St, Sarasota, Text RSVP 516-287-0242. Sunlight Yoga – 5:45-7pm. With Debbie Downing. Gentle flowing hatha yoga. Range of motion, balance, breath awareness, asanas, relaxation. Mixed level. The Power of One, 238 W Tampa Ave, Venice Centre Mall/KMI Bldg, Ste 250. 941468-0403. SunlightYoga@Verizon.net.

natural awakenings

December 2014

Spiritual Evolution: Awakening the Shaman – 7-9pm. (No classes Dec 24 or 31.) Awakening the Shaman within. A course designed to infuse, enhance and expand your spiritual growth through ceremony, and practical applications of meditation techniques, chakra work, chants to expand insight, perception and more. $10. The Cosmic Center, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. Rev Zan Beham 941-922-7839. Zan@Woman-Spirit. com, CCOSL.com.

Intro to Hoop Dance Class – 6-7pm. Learn the basics of the art of Hoop Dance in this 4-week series that begins each month. Have fun, dance, meet new friends and burn calories. $40/month series. Prana Yoga Studio, 3840 S Osprey Ave, Sarasota. Bonnie Brown 941-404-8114. OutwardSpiral.net. Kundalini Yoga with Erinn Earth – 6-7pm. Outdoor class for fresh air intake. Lots of breathing while stretching. Techniques for kundalini manipulation for subtle body transformation. Meditation indoors at end of class. Lesson from Sutras or Gita. $10; $40/5, Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd, Sarasota, 941-284-9563, InSelfYoga.net.

Sarasota Contact Improv Jam – 7-9pm. 2nd & 4th Wed. Contact improv dance class. Love offering. Ionie Body Mind Retreat/Raw Food Café, 1241 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota. 941-320-8144. Ionie.com.

All Levels Flow Yoga – 6-7:15pm. With Ginny. Healing yoga class, afterwards, take a walk through gardens, visit the chickens & relax. $15; $12/Senior/Student. Heartwood Retreat Center. 941-359-9642. ReflexArts.com.

Prayer & Meditation Service – 7:20-8:30pm. Mid-week prayer, meditation & candle lighting service. Unity of Sarasota. 941-955-3301. UnityofSarasota.com. Restorative Yoga & Meditation – 7:30-8:45pm. All levels welcome. Focuses on postures that relax the body & allow the mind to rest. Guided meditation & Reiki healing make this a great place to find rejuvenation. $15; Class cards available. 6260 N Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota. 941-359-9642. ReflexArts.com.

Pregnancy Yoga – 6-7:15pm. Experience the benefits of pregnancy yoga for improved posture, strength, flexibility, endurance, breathing & relaxation. Appropriate for all levels. $15; $50/5. Prana Yoga, 3840 S Osprey Ave, Sarasota. 941-312-1898. LeBarre – 6:40pm & Tues 9:15am. Taking the hottest trend in dance-inspired conditioning, people LeLove LeBarre! Combines balance, agility, resistance, recovery and eloquence into a challenging full body workout. Unlike any barre class you’ve seen! All levels welcome. $10; Packages available, Fly Dance Fitness, 999 Cattleman Rd, Sarasota, 941-400-0020, FlyDanceFitness.com.

thursday Beach Yoga for Everybody – 9-10am/Nov-April. Relax, breathe, stretch & greet the beautiful morning on beautiful Englewood Beach (N end). Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood, 941473-0135, Lata528@gmail.com, LovingLightYoga.com.

Chair Yoga in Salt Room – 7-8pm. Experience the health benefits of gentle yoga, combined with the health benefits of working with the breath during dry salt therapy. $20; Packages available; Senior discount. Fusion Therapy, 7069 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota. 941-921-7900. FusionTherapy.net.

Englewood Farmers Market – 9am-2pm. Omega Cure bottles, vials, cookies and chocolates available. Stop by, say hi, try a sample. Historic Dearborn St, Sarasota, Omega3Innovations.com.

Meditation Study Group – 7-8:30pm. Introduction of the various philosophies of meditation followed by a study of different kinds of practices throughout history. We will discover what meditative practices are most appropriate today and for those interested in spiritual development. Free. Starflower Spathecary, 415 S Pineapple Ave, Sarasota. 941-554-4292. Starflower.com.

Mom & Baby Yoga – 10-10:45am. With Liana. Offering benefits for moms & babies. Moms rebuild core strength & relieve tension. While bonding with their little ones & create lasting relationships with other moms. $14; $50/5. Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. 941-952-5280. RosemaryCourt.com, LianaYoga.com.

Numerology Classes – 7-8:30pm. Learn to manage your life with numerology, with Kathy Skeen. $30. Rejuvenations Center, 2610 Bee Ridge Rd, Sarasota. 941-554-8657. RejuvenationsofSarasota@gmail.com.

Jin Shin Jyutsu

Hatha Yoga – 10-11am. For a life in balance. A gentle transforming practice. Pauline Dimitri. $10. The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg. G2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333. CCOSL.com.

Yoga for Veterans – 3:30-4:30pm. Veterans, military personnel, & their family members can attend a free weekly yoga class designed for vets with PTSD, TBI, and other combat injuries. Free. Goodwill Community Room, 5150 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota. 941-341-9781. Pet Grief Support Group – 3rd Thursday. 7pm. For understanding, support & sharing pictures & stories of your special friend. Love offering. Unity of Sarasota. 941-955-3301. Prenatal Yoga – 7-8:15pm. Exclusively for momsto-be. Learn to safely modify yoga poses for every stage of pregnancy. Relax, de-stress, & embrace the joy of being pregnant, in a supportive environment. Donation. Garden of the Heart Yoga, 2888 Ringling Blvd, 941-341-9781. GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com. A Study of World Religions – 7-9pm. Starting with the Bhagavad-Gita, students learn the various spiritual and cultural paths to God from the world’s religions. Love Offering. With Rev Leslie Chaillou from Cosmic Center at her home, 2506 5th Ct, Ellenton. 704-756-7331, 941-371-9333. CCOSL. com. Thirty Minute Thursdays! – Need a quick pickme-up? Jin Shin Jyutsu, hands-on healing art, harmonizes the flow of life energy. Receive 30mins of rejuvenation, relaxation, pain relief from long-time certified practitioner Michelle Giambra, LMT. Recharge body, mind, spirit. $40 December Special/By Appointment only, Suncoast Jin Shin Jyutsu, Rosemary Ct, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota, 941-228-2972, Michelle@SuncoastJSJ.com, SuncoastJSJ.com.

friday Sarasota Farmers Market – 7am-1pm. Come early for good parking & pick of the best produce & products from the market’s 70+ vendors. Downtown Sarasota, intersection of Lemon & Main St, 941-225-9256. SarasotaFarmersMarket.org. Kundalini Yoga with Dev Atma – 8:30-9:45am. Classes includes gentle warm ups, a yoga set of postures, movements, breathing techniques, and relaxation, followed by meditation utilizing mantra, breath, and often times the healing vibration of the Gong. $14; $50/5. Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. 941-952-5280. RosemaryCourt.com.

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Sarasota/Manatee Edition

Michelle Giambra

Certiﬁed Practitioner A "Favorite Energy Healer"

MA42460

941.228.2972 SuncoastJSJ.com

www.nasrq.com

Beach Yoga for Everybody – 9-10am/Nov-April. Relax, breathe, stretch & greet the beautiful morning on beautiful Englewood Beach (N end). Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood, 941473-0135, Lata528@gmail.com, LovingLightYoga.com. Vinyasa Yoga – 9-10:15am. With Ildi. A vigorous style of yoga, which links breath and movement through a heat-building sequence. $14; $50/5. Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. Liana Bryant 941-952-5280. RosemaryCourt@yahoo.com, RosemaryCourtYoga.com. Downtown Bradenton Farmers’ Market – 9am2pm. Each Sat, the market features a special activity including guest chefs, raffles, arts & crafts vendors & children’s activities. Old Main St, Downtown parking/free on weekends. Dogs on leashes are welcome. 941-744-7484. Nokomis Powerwalk – 9:15-10:15am. Group gathers at Beach Life Wellness and walks, jogs, lunges, and performs a variety of exercises as we make our way to Nokomis Beach and back. Super fun way to exercise with a group and enjoy the beautiful outdoors. All levels welcome. $12/Prepaid, Beach Life Wellness, 301 Albee Rd W, Nokomis, 941244-2006, BeachLifeWellness.com. Essentials for Healthy Backs – 9:15-10:30am. Therapeutic Yoga emphasizing alignment, core, breath, and specific poses to relieve common back conditions. $15; $10/10. Alive with Yoga, 7512 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota. Paula Morris; 941-9235621. MrrisHaven@aol.com, AlivewithYoga.com. Chair Yoga in Salt Room – 9:30-10:30am. Experience the health benefits of gentle yoga combined with the health benefits of working with the breath during dry salt therapy. $20; Pkgs available; Senior discount. Pine Park Center, 7069 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota. 941-921-7900. FusionTherapy.net. Flow Yoga – 10-11:15am. Sun Salutations to warm the body & move into a series of standing poses. Practice balance, core stability & breathe awareness. $15, $88/8. Prana Yoga. 941-735-0344.

Book Study & Discussion – 10am-Noon. An ongoing book study group encouraging discussion & group interaction. $10. Unity of Sarasota. 941-9553301. UnityOfSarasota.com. Mindfulness and More – 1-2:30pm. Alive With Yoga, 7513 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota. Charlie Bradt 941-922-5205. Community Karma Yoga Class – 4:15-5:30pm. Generate good karma. Make a donation to the Karma Yoga Outreach Program and receive an amazing mixed level yoga class led by some of the best teachers in Sarasota. A different instructor each week. Class is beginner- and family-friendly. We bring free yoga to vets, kids with autism, Parkinson’s patients and more. Donation, Garden of the Heart Yoga, 2888 Ringling Blvd, 941-341-9781. GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com. Ascension to Immortality – 7-9pm. Based on his book about Jesus, Avatar of God, Rev Gopi Chari shows the ardent Seeker that they can experience a personal connection with God, the Divine Source, by following the teachings and example of Jesus’ 7 stages of the paths of Ascension. $10, The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333. CCOSL.com.

saturday Sarasota Farmers Market – 7am-1pm. Omega Cure bottles, vials, cookies and chocolates available. Stop by, say hi, try a sample. Main St & Lemon Ave, Sarasota, Omega3Innovations.com. Central Sarasota Year-Round Farmers Market – 8am-1pm, rain or shine. Every agriculture vendor at the market (fruits, vegetables, herbs, plants, etc.) is a growers or farmer, not just a reseller. Sarasota County Technical Institute campus, 4748 S Beneva Rd, south parking lot, E of the pond, Sarasota, CentralSarasotaFamersMarket.com. Beach Yoga for Everybody – 9-10am/Nov-April. Relax, breathe, stretch & greet the beautiful morning on beautiful Englewood Beach (N end). Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood, 941-

473-0135, Lata528@gmail.com, Yoga.com.

LovingLight-

RYT200 Yoga Teacher Training – 9am-6pm. Sept 20-April 2015. Our professional level RYT200 Yoga Teacher Training prepares students for work in public classes & private sessions. Kerry Tice & Britt Dienes train. $3175. CircuSoul Yoga, 941-922-9642, CircuSoul.com. Yoga with Lana – 10-11am. Join Lana in her serene Banyan Tree Open Studio. Authentic Yoga incorporating the essentials of a vital practice: meditation, strength, flexibility, balance, and healing. Beginner-Intermediate Hatha Yoga. $12/Prepaid, Beach Life Wellness, 301 Albee Rd W, Nokomis, 941-244-2006, BeachLifeWellness.com. Wild Ginger Apothecary – 10am-6pm. Now open in Gulf Gate, featuring non-toxic and eco-friendly health + beauty items for the entire family. 6557 Superior Ave, Sarasota. 941-312-5630. WildGingerApothecary@gmail.com, WildGingerApothecary.com. Kundalini Yoga with Erinn Earth – 10:3011:45am. Outdoor class for fresh air intake. Lots of breathing while stretching. Techniques for kundalini manipulation for subtle body transformation. Meditation indoors at end of class. Lesson from Sutras or Gita. $10; $40/5, Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd, Sarasota, 941-284-9563, InSelfYoga.net. Nokomis Reiki Share – 2nd Sat. 3-5pm. An opportunity for Reiki practitioners to connect with one another and those who are interested to know more. Everyone will have time to receive as well as practice sharing healing energy in this safe, caring, environment. No experience needed. Love offering. Beach Life Wellness, 301 Albee Rd W, Nokomis, 941-244-2006, BeachLifeWellness.com. The Happiness Hour – 2nd Sat. 5pm. An uplifting hour of upbeat music, calming meditation and a spiritual message to entertain and enlighten. Built on social interaction, fun and real world spiritual practices. $10, Bayfront Community Center (behind the Municipal Auditorium), 803 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, 941-484-8782, TheHappinessHour.com.

Natural Dentistry Ray Behm DDS

natural awakenings

December 2014

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. Spa De Vries

acupuncture/ chinese medicine

3534 S. Osprey Ave, Sarasota 941-706-1157 DevriesCollection@comcast.net

CARYN L. YOUNG, DOM, AP, OTR

Lift and tighten your face without surgery. Cosmetic acupuncture - costs less than botox and the needles are smaller! Create softer, smoother skin! MM 26158

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

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

Courtney F. Connell, AP

DONNA M. THORSEN, BA, AP, DOM, @ FUSION • 7222 S Tamiami Trail, 34231 Coral Cove Plaza • 941-350-8554 DonnaThorsen@comcast.net SarasotaAcupuncturePhysician.com

Adult Education The Open Center

Bob Waxman, Ph.D. Author & Educator 3023 Proctor Rd. at Unity of Sarasota 941-724-5151 • OpenCenter@comcast.net OpenCenterFL.com (see 2014 Events)

Come and enjoy uplifting classes, events and films that explore spirituality, wellness & personal growth. Expand your mind and nourish your spirit! Many events by donation. Newcomers welcome! Also, seeking teachers with experience & credentials.

applied kinesiology Dr. Cynthia Clark, AP, ACN

Longevity Wellness Clinic & Crane Health 2106 Bispham Road, Sarasota, FL 941-923-9355 (WELL) LongevityWellnessClinic.com CraneHealth.net

Nutritional Healing with muscle testing combines dietary therapy with Western nutrition science; the aim is to recommend the precise nutrients your body needs to treat your specific health issues, increase healing and enhance performance.

aromatherapy

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

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

Personalized service for 30 years— specializing in custom compounding. We offer herbal and nutritional supplements, seminars on bio-identical hormone replacement therapy, cholesterol screenings and more.

ELYSIAN FIELDS

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

Books and gifts for conscious living. Award-winning store! Jewelry, incense, clothing, candles, greeting cards and more. Private readings daily. Classes and events. M-Sat 10-6, Sun 12-5.

chiropractic 941-953-3700 2650 Bahia Vista St Suite 309, Sarasota AllNaturalHealingSRQ.com

Dr. Larson uses a gentle adjusting technique for all ages. He specializes in non-surgical neck and back repair. Call for Free Consultation 941-9533700.

Dr. Amy Tafeen

3529 South Tuttle Avenue, Sarasota, FL 941-924-7228 phone 941-924-4780 fax FamilyChiropractic-DrTafeen.com

30 years experience, pediatrics, sports, automobile injuries, massage, nutrition and facials. Most insurances accepted and affordable cash plans.

Young Living Essential Oils

Alina Piccone & Robert Ridpath, ICA 813-644-9104 AlinaPiccone@me.com YLEOSarasota.com WeOwnOurLife.com

Faces By Dr Anna

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

3644 Webber Street Sarasota • 941-921-6645 888-245-0070 FamilyPharmacy.org

All Natural Healing

Acupuncture, Herbs, De-tox Footbaths, Vitamin B shots, Pain Injectables, Massage, etc. Discount Packages available! Covered by some insurance policies. MA#18474

acupuncture facelift

FAMILY PHARMACY

bookstore/gift shops

Longevity Wellness Clinic & Crane Health 2106 Bispham Road, Sarasota, FL 941-923-9355 (WELL) LongevityWellnessClinic.com CraneHealth.net

We offer a holistic approach to healthcare that combines Chinese Medicine, acupuncture and nutrition with Western science and diagnostics. We specialize in Pain and Stress Relief, Heart Health and Healthy Aging, Endocrine and Nerological Disorders.

bio-identical hormones

Young Living is the world leader in therapeutic essential oils. Contact us for details about hosting your own workshop or to attend an upcoming class!

www.nasrq.com

Gentle Care Chiropractic Amy McConnell, DC • CH8082 3982 Bee Ridge Rd, Bldg H, Ste H Sarasota, FL 34233 941-312-6200 GentleCareChiropractic.com

Dr. Amy McConnell offers the gentle, low-force chiropractic technique of “Activator Methods”.

keNNedY CHiRoPRaCTiC CliNiC Shelly Kennedy, DC 4155 Clark Rd, Sarasota 941-929-0020 KennedyChiroClinic.com

Diversified, Activator, Kinesio Taping, Orthotics, Massage Therapy (MM 6252). We accept BCBS, UHC, Cigna, Humana, Aetna.

COlON HYDROTHERAPY ColoN THeRaPY CliNiC

Alain Menard • Allaesia Menard 2831 Ringling Blvd, Ste 121-F 941-922-7744 ColonTherapyClinic.com

ESSENTIAl OIlS

CRYSTAl BOWlS/gIFTS

MY oil Guide, llC

THe oM sHoPPe

4521 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 941-706-3257 TheOMShoppe.com

Sarasota’s largest selection of Crystal and Fusion Singing Bowls, Himalayan Salt products, Organic Oils, as well as Mediation Accessories and Gifts for Mindful Living.

DAY SPA/SkIN CARE sPa de vRies

FeldeNkRais® MeTHod

Customized advanced skin care for all skin types. Specializing in custom facials, Derma Sweep - exfoliation, Dermaplane and light therapy. MM 26158.

SPATHECARY CRANIOSACRAl THERAPY advaNCed CRaNiosaCRal wHole BodY THeRaPY Terry Grywinksi, LMT MA6049 San Marco 205D, 1188 N Tamiami Tr, Sarasota 941-755-3437 AdvancedCranioSacralHealing.com

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

CRANIOSACRAl THERAPY lYMPHATIC DRAINAgE TeRRY sCHiBleR, lMT Ma11621 Fusion Therapy 7069 S Tamiami Trail Sarasota, 34231 • 941-921-7900 FusionTherapy.net

Terry’s 22 years of experience integrates the best of anatomical knowledge of the body with eastern concepts of energy and healing. He has a singular ability to trace, recognize and treat complex pain patterns while treating the cause of pain, not just symptoms.

sTaRFloweR oRGaNiC sPaTHeCaRY

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

Starflower Organic Skincare is one of the leading holistic skin care manufacturers in the U.S.A, offering a complete line of certified organically grown, food grade ingredients and essential oils. Spathecary services include Facials, Massage, Reflexology, and Nutritional Counseling and Holistic Detoxification Therapy. .

DENTISTRY RaY BeHM dds

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

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

EAR/NOSE/THROAT PHYSICIANS silveRsTeiN iNsTiTuTe

CRYSTAlS THe CRYsTal Cave

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

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

My Oil Guide, LLC, provides free educational workshops and in-home classes including cooking classes in self-care wellness and longevity, utilizing Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade (CPTG) essential oils from doTERRA.

FElDENkRAIS METHOD®

3534 S. Osprey Ave, Sarasota 941-706-1157 DevriesCollection@comcast.net

Cleansing for digestive disorders. Licensed 40 years. Developed gentle technique. Foot bath and ear candling.

James & Christine Payne 941-387-6800 JC@MyOilGuide.com MyOilGuide.com

Drs. Silverstein, Rosenberg, Wazen and Bhanot 1901 Floyd St, Sarasota, FL 400 S. Tamiami Tr Ste 260, Venice, FL 941-366-9222 EarSinus.com

Classes, Individual Lessons and Workshops. Bonnie Kissam, M.A. At Ionie’s, 1241 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota 941-360-2248 Bonnie@FeldenkraisInSarasota.com

Movement with attention is the Feldenkrais Method®’s approach to improve posture and create more harmonious, efficient ways of moving. Through heightened awareness to the flow of movement, clients optimize their musical, athletic or natural everyday movements, and improve abilities after an injury, illness or trauma. Benefits go beyond the physical. Visit: FeldenkraisInSarasota.com.

FEN SHUI THe FeNG sHui CuRe

Steve Kodad, CFSP, CFSRE 941-720-4480 www.TheFengShuiCure.com

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

HAIR SAlON Bliss saloN

5531 Palmer Crossing Ci, Sarasota 941-923-1287 BlissSalonSRQ.com

Come relax, be pampered and leave feeling beautiful inside and out. Have a green experience from head to toe at Sarasota’s premier natural salon & boutique. We focus on natural beauty products.

Physician Group offering the most advanced diagnostic & specialty care for disorders of the head, neck, ears, nose and throat - including hearing, balance, sinus, allergy, and surgical/non-surgical facial plastics.

natural awakenings

December 2014

HOlISTIC VETERINARIAN

MANICURE/PEDICURE

BeaR CReek veTeRiNaRY alTeRNaTives

Bliss saloN

5531 Palmer Crossing Ci, Sarasota 941-923-1287 BlissSalonSRQ.com

7509 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota 941-312-6825 BearCreekSarasota.com

Jaime Gonzalez DVM, CVA, is coowner of this specialty practice. He is a holistic care expert and his approach to veterinary care combines 22 years of conventional, emergency medicine and alternative modalities.

MASSAgE THERAPY 941-953-3700 2650 Bahia Vista St, Suite 309, Sarasota AllNaturalHealingSRQ.com

THe MikeY CeNTeR

7349 PROFESSIONAL PARKWAY, SARASOTA 941-724-1861 TheMikeyCenter.net

Treat yourself to a full body massage. We have the BEST DEAL in town. Introductory Special. $35 1hr/massage. Limit one per customer. MM30266 Call to schedule your massage today 941-953-3700.

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

NO MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED

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

HEAlTH SUPPlEMENTS oMeGa3 iNNovaTioNs

727 Commerce Dr, Venice, FL 34242 866-840-4811 Omega3Innovations.com

Omega Cure® – Ultra-fresh, pure omega-3 cod liver oil. The result is impressive: our customers tell us they experience lowered triglyceride levels and relieved joint pains.

MA 0025928 Will meet or beat all competitor pricing. 1219 East Ave, Suite 202, Sarasota New Client Special 941-724-9992

Gourmet Popsicles made with all natural, preservative free ingredients. Are you crazy about Popsicles? So are we!

NATURAl PET FOOD HolisTiC FoR PeTs

Valerie Clows 713 Honore Ave, Sarasota, 941-378-4367 8728 SR 70, Bradenton, 753-7297 HolisticForPets.com

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

suNCoasT JiN sHiN JYuTsu

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

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

liCeNsed NuTRiTioN CouNseloR

941-554-4292, Starflower.com

CaFe eveRGReeN

JIN SHIN JYUTSU®

NUTRITION

3 Massages for $100 (regular price $65-75) eachPrang Plews, LIC NC333 Eve Customized massage to fit your Full Spectrum Health, Inc. needs. Specializing in sports • Customized Massage to Fit Your Needs 2106 Bispham Road Sarasota, FL massage. Available evenings & • Specializing in Sports Massage • M-Fri 9-5, Sat10-2 weekends. client 3 alleviate941-952-1200 • Works onNew all levels of special athletics-to pain FullSpectrumHealth.com and prevent injury massages for $100. HOLISTIC HEALTH CLINIC & • Medical Insurance Accepted STORE. Superior Supplements by 941-724-9992 Xymogen and more. Professional Licensed Massage Therapist MA 0025928 1219 East Ave, Suite 202, Sarasota, FL 34239 Grade Homeopathics by Newton. sPa de vRies Essential Oils by Oil Lady and Wind 3534 S. Osprey Ave, Sarasota River Organic Skin Care by 941-706-1157 Éminence. DevriesCollection@comcast.net Affordable and professional custom massages: Swedish, deep tissue, sports and hot stone. sTaRFloweR Aromatherapy complimentary oRGaNiC sPaTHeCaRY with each. Relax, renew and 415 S. Pineapple Ave Sarasota, FL 34236 rejuvenate. MM 26158.

NATURAl FOOD

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

2245 Bee Ridge Rd #A, Sarasota 941-706-3231 PopCraftPops.com

Bich Mai Massage BiCH Mai MassaGe

wellPRide

PoP CRaFT PoPs

Come relax, be pampered and leave feeling beautiful inside and out. Have a green experience from head to toe at Sarasota’s premier natural salon & boutique. We focus on natural beauty products.

all NaTuRal HealiNG

HYPERBARIC OXYgEN

NATURAl FOOD

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

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

www.nasrq.com

NUTRITIONAl SUPPlEMENTS sPeCial NuTRiTioN disCouNT PRiCes

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

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

NUTRITIONAl SUPPlEMENTS suPeR value viTaMiNs

4892 S Tamiami Tr, Sarasota 941-366-1997 5842 Bee Ridge Rd, Sarasota 941-342-1908 ValueVitaminStore.com ection & lowest Pr l e s t s e g r ice

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amiami Trail (The Landings Shopping Center) Sarasota FL, 34231 941-366-1997

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5842 Bee Ridge Rd. (Centergate Shopping Center) Sarasota FL, 34233 941-342-1908

PEST CONTROl

The Original Discount Vitamin Store • Family Owned Since 1977 Formerly on Main St. for 35 years Keeping Sarasota/ Bradenton healthy for 36 years

Homeopathic, Chinese Herbs & More

Good News PesT soluTioNs Dean Burnside, President Sarasota, Bradenton, Venice 941-371-1311 GoodNewsPestSolutions.com

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

PET SUPPlIES HolisTiC FoR PeTs

Valerie Clows 713 Honore Ave, Sarasota, 941-378-4367 8728 SR 70, Bradenton, 753-7297 HolisticForPets.com

PIlATES THe PilaTes BodY & GYRoToNiC sTudio

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Crystal Cave The

Happy Holidays from the Crystal Cave!

1071 S Tuttle Ave Ste 2, Sarasota, FL 941-955-5533 PilatesSRQ.com

A fully equipped movement center utilizing Pilates, GYROTONIC® & GYROKINESIS® Methods in small group classes, duets or one on one training.

www.crystalcave.me • 941-346-6203 • 1899-B Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL crystalcave.me@gmail.com • Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 11ish-5ish Please like us on Facebook! natural awakenings

December 2014

PSYCHIC MEDIUM

SHAMANIC PRACTICES

ReveReNd lois CHeNeY

sPiRiTual CouNseloR, sHaMaNiC aNd Reiki PRaCTiCes

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

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

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

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

SkIN CARE

RECONNECTION®

sPa de vRies

THe ReCoNNeCTioN® aNd ReCoNNeCTive HealiNG®

3534 S. Osprey Ave, Sarasota 941-706-1157 DevriesCollection@comcast.net

Laura Mahoney, Practitioner and Yoga Teacher 561-306-9712 SarasotaHealer.com AngelWingsYoga.com

Laura shares Dr. Eric Pearl’s energy healing for the body, mind and spirit. She also offers private and group yoga.

Customized advanced skin care for all skin types. Specializing in custom facials, DermaSweep - exfoliation, Dermaplane and light therapy. MM 26158.

lisa wHiddoN, lMT

Certified Reflexologist at ionie MA 43826 1241 Fruitville Rd. Sarasota, FL 34236 941-400-4744

Trained at the International Institute of Reflexology, Lisa has been a practicing Reflexologist in Sarasota since 2005. Her sensitivity and intuition offer a unique approach to this ancient healing method.

sTaRFloweR oRGaNiC sPaTHeCaRY

SPIRITUAl CENTERS CeNTeR FoR sPiRiTual liviNG

Manatee / Sarasota

REFlEXOlOgY, MASSAgE, WEllNESS

4200-32nd Street West in Bradenton 941-756-0400 MSCSOM.com Rev. Karen Wolfson 3145 South Gate Circle (Tuttle@Siesta Dr.) 941-927-6212 CSLSarasota.com

MadRi wilsoN

Juice plus & Health Consultant, Reflexology and Massage 941-957-1376 MadriLovesJuicePlus.com MadriWilson.com

It’s never too late for new beginnings! Share, Inspire, Promote Excellent Health!

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

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

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

RisiNG Tide iNTeRNaTioNal

5102 Swift Rd, Sarasota RisingTideInternational.org Universal Worship: Sunday 10:30am

Interfaith and interspiritual classes, seminars, retreats and worship/ service. Core offerings are rooted in the teachings of Universal Sufism. Founder: Shahabuddin David Less,Senior Teacher-Sufi Order International.

uNiTY oF saRasoTa 415 S. Pineapple Ave Sarasota, FL 34236 941-554-4292 Starflower.com

REFlEXOlOgY

CosMiC CeNTeR oF sPiRiTual liGHT

www.nasrq.com

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

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

SPORTS MEDICINE all NaTuRal HealiNG

Dr. Michael House, AP/O.M.D. 941-953-3700 2650 Bahia Vista St Suite 309, Sarasota allnaturalhealingsrq.com

No need for surgery or pain management. Specializing in non-surgical neck, back and joint repair. Challenge me with any illness, disease or pain. Call for FREE consultation. 941-953-3700.

YOgA RoseMaRY CouRT YoGa 810 Central Ave, Sarasota 941-952-5280 RosemaryCourt.com

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

all NaTuRal HealiNG MediCal CeNTeR Jennifer Bielowicz, RYT 200, LMT, Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner 941-953-3700 2650 Bahia Vista St, #309, Sarasota AllNaturalHealingSRQ.com

One-on-one Yoga Therapy specializing in Ayurveda to customize each session. Offering yoga for all types and levels, Beginners, Chair, Restorative, Meditative and more with an emphasis on breath work. Complimenting your rehab from injuries. Call 941-953-3700 for our Fall Specials -- 50% off first session!

Check out our weekly podcasts for free at www.cslsarasota.com New Science of Mind classes coming January 2015! For details call Theresa @ 376-0177

GaRdeN oF THe HeaRT YoGa

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

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

ReFleX aRTs daNCe & YoGa sTudio 6260 N. Lockwood Ridge Rd 941-359-YOGA (9642) ReFLEXarts.com

ReFLEX offers it all: from chair yoga to aerial yoga, from ballet to Zumba, from meditation & journaling classes to massage services! Honor your mind, body & spirit today. All ages and skill levels welcome.

EnglEwood Yoga CEntEr

Loving Light Yoga

3455 S. Access Rd., Englewood, FL (next to Stevens Florist)

All levels of Yoga, Meditation & Sound Healing

YoGa sRQ

Robyn Marin, RYT 5900 S Tamiami Tr, Sarasota 941-955-4777 YogaSRQ.com

Sarasota’s Vinyasa Flow Power Yoga Studio. Gentle, Restorative & Laughter Yoga too! We’ve yogaSRQ moved! Beautiful new studio at 5900 S. Tamiami Tr. 1.5 Miles from Siesta Key/Next to Simon’s Coffee House. Yoga SRQ, a studio offering a full schedule of classes. We have what you want- early mornings-evenings.Vinyasa Flow Yoga for all levels, Gentle Yoga, Yoga Rx, Donation based Family Yoga, Workshops and Retreats.

Morning Yoga Every Day on Englewood Beach! Sunset Yoga on Monday & Wednesday!

941-473-0135 • LovingLightYoga.com Lata528@gmail.com natural awakenings

December 2014

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

natural awakenings

December 2014

Make a living Making a difference. Have you ever considered a career that touches peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives? If you have, ask yourself the following question: Might a career in the healing arts be a good fit for me? It is our passion to help you discover whether a career in bodywork is right for you. Call or text Autumn Lopez, SSMT admissions guide, for sincere help exploring your possibilities.

941.487.0827 sarasotaschoolofmassagetherapy.edu

Change Lives. Start with Yours.