Natural Awakenings May 2015 Sarasota by Natural Awakenings of Sarasota

H E A L T H Y

L I V I N G

FREE

BREAST HEALTH Natural Ways to Ensure Their Well-Being

H E A L T H Y

P L A N E T

feel good • live simply • laugh more

ANIMAL NATURAL CHILDBIRTH VACCINE Gently Ushering What’s a Pet Parent to Do?

a Baby into the World

May 2015 | Sarasota/Manatee Edition | nasrq.com

NATIONAL QIGONG EVENT

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Miss Your Chance to Practice in a Profound Group Energy

4-Day Immersion of Qigong, Yoga, Radical Wellness & Food Healing $149

Thousands attend each year because the experience is Electric.

Real Deal Taiji Master, Jesse Tsao is joining Qi Revolution!

He teaches ART OF ROOTING to be grounded firm in a stance. He demonstrates being pushed by 10 huge men and not budging.

Few humans in Qigong can do this. We get to learn how!

Access Your Full Potential and Raise Your Energy Levels. Learn To Use Food-Healing for Optimal State of Wellbeing. Practice Powerful Breathing and Meditation Techniques.

Orlando Convention Center June 6th-9th

$149 for all 4-Days! June 6th & 7th is (L-1) June 8th is (L-2) June 9th is (L-3) Limited Seating Avail. CEU Hours.

(800)-298-8970 QiRevolution.com

Hotels walking distance to convention w/free parking: $57 per night!

See website for details.

get your

Youthful Look... Naturally! Winner

Favorite Anti-Aging Practitioner

AS SEEN ON THE DR. OZ SHOW! Attend Dr. Annaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Seminar May 13 at 2pm

Call for a FREE consultation and Facial Analysis ($200 value).

(941) 924-2723

10 treatment minimum $1,050 No needles used on the face Please view our testimonials at

www.FacesbyDrAnna.com

Faces

by Dr. Anna

ACUPUNCTURE FACELIFT & NECKLIFT Dr. Anna L. Baker is a Board Certified Doctor of Oriental Medicine

Bachelor’s Degree Alternative Medicine COURSES INCLUDE: • The Herbal Medicine Chest • Ayurvedic Medicine • Herbology and Botany • Introduction to Homeopathy • Traditional Chinese Medicine • Naturopathy • Introduction to Chiropractic • Manual Therapies: Massage, Reflexology, and Acupressure • Nutrition and Aging • Antioxidants • Dietary Influences on Health and Disease “Today I am more confident than ever. Thank you, Everglades University, for a great experience.” Edith Kaplan, Alternative Medicine Graduate

Ranked in the Top 30 Best Online Colleges TheBestSchools.org

Sarasota Campus 1.866.907.2262 Tampa Campus 1.844.297.1715 EvERgLADESUNIvERSITy.EDU

Expires: 5/30/2015

Experience Wellness, Purpose, & Abundance with Young Living Essential Oils Young Living Essential Oils can provide you with the opportunity to earn income while helping others and learning to keep your family healthier !

What are the benefits of working with Young Living Essential Oils? Learn to detox your home and make your family healthier Endless resources to help you learn and grow personally and professionally Oppotunities to give back by sponsoring a child at the YLEO Academy in Guayaquil, Ecuador Young Living Essential Oils is a truly â&#x20AC;&#x153;greenâ&#x20AC;? business Earn income by helping others Trips, incentive prizes, and recognition for all levels Young Living Essential Oils is a valuable home business featured in Success from Home magazine Energetic local and online team support and training Free personalized coaching from multiple mentors Unlimited income potential Proven systems for success Learn from real, local people who have achieved the Four Year Career For a free copy of the Four Year Career - Young Living Edition or to learn more, please contact Alina & Robert at 813-644-9104 or www.YLEOSRQ.com

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

32 RETHINKING

BREAST HEALTH

Natural Ways to Keep Breasts Smooth, Pain-Free and Firm, while Reducing the Risk of Cancer by Lisa Marshall

36 GIVING BIRTH NATURALLY

Conscious Choices Lead to Less Intervention by Meredith Montgomery

40 KIDS LOVE VEGGIES How to Instill Healthy Lifelong Habits by Clancy Cash Harrison

43 LAURA PREPON’S

JOURNEY TO HEALTH Home Cooking, Organics and Massage Are Keys by Gerry Strauss

44 EATING SKINNY

Why Vegans and Vegetarians are Naturally Trim by Judith Fertig

46 UPCYCLED DÉCOR Old and Oh-So-Stylish by Avery Mack

50 FLEXING

OUR MUSCLES

Weightlifting Makes Us Fit, Healthy and Self-Confident by Debra Melani

54 PET VACCINE

ALTERNATIVES Natural Steps to Nurture Immunity by Shawn Messonnier

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

22 11 newsbriefs 22 healthbriefs 24 globalbriefs 26 ecotip 36 healingways 40 healthykids 43 wisewords 44 consciouseating 46 greenliving 24 50 fitbody 52 inspiration 26 54 naturalpet 76 calendar 77 classifieds 82 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.

Experts say you need 8–12 capsules a day. We find that hard to swallow. 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.

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.

Order online: Omega3innovations.com Order by phone: 866.840.4811 nasrq.com

727 Commerce Drive • Venice, FL 34292 natural awakenings

May 2015

letterfrompublisher

his month’s issue focuses on the women in our lives, especially our moms. I am sure Mother’s Day means different things for each person. Because I don’t have children, I get to spend the day primarily with my mother. It is a great time to reflect on our experiences together and all the great times we have had with each other. Since her health has declined over the years, I am heavily involved in her health care. I am so grateful to be able to have access to many articles on better health and treatment options at my fingertips through Natural Awakenings and also to be able to share them with you. I know breast health is a high priority with most of our readers, with the rising presence of breast cancer as we age. I have two wonderful articles in this issue on overall breast health. There are some great tips on how to be in tune with your breasts to help be aware of symptoms, as well as a better way for testing and treatment. Another great article to check out is on sleek and toned muscles. I love to work out but used to primarily concentrate on cardio. I found that lifting weights, even light ones, has helped me be more toned and feel stronger. Plus, I am burning more calories! I highly recommend adding this to your workout, as it only takes a few extra minutes to boost your routine. With spring comes, of course, spring cleaning! Besides providing an opportunity to get the cobwebs out of our homes, we can also take this opportunity to de-clutter our lives and our minds. Recycling unused or no longer “precious” items in our homes is always a great idea. Donations to animal shelter thrift shops, Goodwill, Salvation Army and other humanitarian organizations are gratefully accepted. Check out the article on up-cycling old furniture as a great way to give new life to “still-useful-but-seen-better-days” items.

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

Janet Lindsay, Publisher

© 2015 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. 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.

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

newsbriefs Bramson Treats Morton’s Neuroma with Prolotherapy and Prolozone

orton’s neuroma is a painful condition that affects the ball of your foot, most commonly the area between your third and fourth toes. The condition may feel as if you are standing on a pebble in your shoe or on a fold in your sock. Morton’s neuroma involves a thickening of the tissue around one of the nerves leading to your toes. This can cause a sharp, burning pain in your foot. Your toes also may sting, burn or feel numb. Damaged and stretched out ligaments in the foot and toes can cause the nerves to be irritated and inflamed. Dr. Ronald Bramson, a leading regenerative physician and podiatrist who practices at Gecko Joint and Spine, uses prolotherapy to strengthen and tighten the ligaments back to their normal length. Then prolozone, an activated oxygen gas (ozone) is injected around the nerves in the foot. The combination can heal the nerve as well as strengthen the area to give a long term correction to the problem, versus steroid injection which will only give temporary relief for the inflammation. Dr. Bramson offers a free consultation on this and many other orthopedic concerns using regenerative therapies including stem cells, PRP and prolotherpy. You are invited attend his lecture May 5 and 19 at 6 p.m. to explore this new treatment option. Location: Gecko Joint and Spine, 2033 Wood Street #210, Sarasota. For more information, phone 941-330-8553 or visit GeckoJointandSpine.com.

Feng Shui Master to Teach Certification Course

aster Han, internationally recognized Feng Shui Master and founder of the Wu Ji Academy in Switzerland comes to Sarasota to teach a seven-day certification course, June 8 through 14. Master Han comes from the most prominent teaching lineage in the world, that of the former Grand Master Yap Cheng Hai. He taught for the Yap Cheng Hai Academy for many years prior to founding the Wu Ji Academy, now one of the world’s premier teaching institutions for Classical Feng Shui. It is the only non-Chinese institution formally recognized by the Chinese Institute of Classical Feng Shui located in Beijing, China for teaching Feng Shui in its purest, most potent form. This class is appropriate for anyone at any level who wants to deepen their understanding of Feng Shui but, more importantly, to learn how to apply these powerful principles to our living environments correctly. There are so many versions of Feng Shui taught in the U.S., and many of these teachings diminish the overall effectiveness that these principles can have on an individual’s personal and professional life, not to mention those that can also be harmful. This is an opportunity not to be missed to learn Feng Shui from a true Master with exceptional credentials, and to learn it correctly! Students of Master Han’s Academy will join an elite group of Practitioners here in the US. Cost: $3,600 if paid by May 11, $4,200 afterwards. For more information contact Kathy Keh at 941-366-8113 or visit BrightLife-USA. com.

Starflower Offers Organic and Holistic Nail Spa Experience

eginning May 1, Starflower Organic Spathecary will premier a new organic nail spa, offering exceptional manicure and pedicure treatments, fresh organic products and soothing aromas in a warm environment dedicated to rejuvenation. Indulge in a deluxe, non-toxic, eco-friendly nail salon experience. Starflower is one of the few organic nail spas in Sarasota. Location: 415 South Pineapple Ave., Sarasota. For more information, phone 941-554-4292, email Star@starflower. com or visit Starflower.com.

Support Mandatory GMO Labeling in Florida

wo Florida legislators, Rep. Michelle Rehwinkel Vasilinda (D-Tallahassee) and Sen. Jeremy Ring (D-Margate), are working to pass bills (HB 351 and SB 416) to label some foods containing genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Similar efforts died last year in the House and Senate agriculture committees. House Bill 351 and Senate Bill 416 would require 25 raw fruits and vegetables to carry labels if they contain GMOs. Wheat, corn, cotton, papaya, rice, zucchini and squash would be among the targeted produce. Both bills would require the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to annually update the list to include any newly introduced GMO produce. Additionally, products containing recombinant bovine growth hormone (rBGH) to increase milk production in cows would also require mention on labels. The new requirements would take effect on January 1, 2017. To ask that Florida representatives vote YES on these bills and support mandatory food labeling, visit Tinyurl. com/FLA-GMO-Petition.

natural awakenings

May 2015

More than an Ad... It’s a presence in our community .

Advertising with Natural Awakenings reaches your direct market and allows you to be seen in print, online, on Facebook and Twitter, on mobile devices, and through email blasts.

Our conscious consumers are looking for you!

“In my opinion, Natural Awakenings advertising is without a doubt the finest representative advertising vehicle in Sarasota and Manatee Counties”. We have been extremely satisfied with their commitment to our success in all of our marketing campaigns... Natural Awakenings continues to be our number one lead source. J Kamore, Macys Pest Control.

Become part of our community today call

941.564.0885

newsbriefs Elysian Fields Announces May Events

class with James Wanless, Ph.D., entitled “Nature’s Wisdom for Self-Sustainability” will be presented on May 7, from 7 to 9 p.m. The originating, prime mover of life, which may be called Spirit or God/dess, is embodied in every detail of Mother Earth; she has all the answers you need to know and follow. Wanless expands upon Mother Nature, and her green way is the living proof of sustainable wisdom. Looking to the Earth for guidance is the way forward. Cost is $25; space is limited and prepayment is required. Wanless will also offer Voyager Tarot Readings on May 8 and 9, from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 30 minutes for $75; 60 minutes for $135. On May 14, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., join Nakoma Hawk for an informal drum circle for creating harmony, sharing energies and building community connection through drum rhythms. Bring your own drum or percussion instrument; some additional instruments will also be available. This gathering is offered to the first 10 people to pre-register. Love offerings are accepted. A book signing of Love Calls by Kimberly Braun, followed by a lecture and tea is slated for May 27, at 3 p.m. Braun will share her hero’s journey into the mystery and challenges of meeting her mind and her heart. Her work is poignant, powerful and poetic. A class, “Creating with Crystals” with Margo Park and Tanya Bartow, will be held on May 31, from 6 to 8 p.m. Margo and Tanya will inspire and uplift participants, using the amazing power of crystals. This fun-filled, informative class is a must for anyone serious about using the magical energy of crystals, both personally and environmentally. Prepayment of $25 is required. Seating is limited. Location: Elysian Fields, 1273 Tamiami Trail S, Sarasota. For more information, call 941-361-3006 or visit ElysianFieldsOnline.com.

The Art of Maggie Davenport Opens at Fusion Therapy

usion Therapy will open its doors to welcome the artwork of Maggie Davenport on May 22 from 7 to 9 p.m. On display will be a new series of work including her signature Goddess paintings, as well as several sky and sea landscape pieces. Davenport, a longtime resident of Sarasota and Ringling College graduate, is thrilled to be partnering with Fusion for this special event. The imagery in these new pieces evokes feelings of expansion, peace and meditation. They will beautifully compliment the diverse therapies by offered by Fusion which include Dry Salt Therapy, Bodywork and Massage, Alternative Healing, Yoga and Meditation. Please stop by for some light refreshments, to enjoy the artwork and tour this state-of-theart facility. The artwork will remain on display and be available for purchase throughout the summer months. This is a free event. Location: 7069 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. For more information, contact Maggie Davenport at 941-400-8757 or email her at DavenportMaggie@yahoo.com. Visit MaggieDavenport.com or FusionTherapy.net for additional information.

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

May 11 – 17 is International Feldenkrais Week

orman Doidge, M.D., author of The Brain that Changes Itself has recently published his second book, The Brain’s Way of Healing, Remarkable Discoveries and Recoveries from the Frontiers of Neuroplasticity. He talks about people who have had remarkable recoveries, using different processes that have helped the brain change behaviors and works to explain the science behind the process. Chapter 5 of the book is about Moshe Feldenkrais, D.Sc., a man who was demonstrating Neuroplasticity back in the ‘60s. Feldenkrais believed the brain can change through sensing subtle differences. Doidge writes about Feldenkrais’ work with a patient, Elizabeth, who was born in 1980 with one-third of a cerebellum and whose parents were given no hope for her to live a normal life. When Feldenkrais met her, he was able to see subtle changes in this little child from suggested movements he asked her to sense. Feldenkrais observed her brain developing and told her father that he would dance with her at her wedding. She is now 35 years old and married with two Master’s degrees. Doidge says of Feldenkrais, “One of his chief contributions was to understand that, in injury or illness, the brain areas that process movement and sensation in

Launching New “Organic” Line in May!

the body become underutilized and waste away in the ‘use it or lose it brain.’ The brain processing areas lose the ability to encode fine detail and, hence, become ‘undifferentiated’ with disuse. By doing slow movements, with great awareness, he found he was able to ‘re-differentiate’ brain processing areas and radically improve function.” On May 14, from 7 to 9 p.m., Bonnie Kisssam, M.A., will celebrate International Feldenkrais Week with a lecture entitled “Feldenkrais, the Man and his Method.” Videos, a small demonstration and comments of her personal experience studying with Feldenkrais will be shared. Kissam holds an M.A. in Dance and Children with Exceptional Abilities. She was introduced to the experience of several of Feldenkrais’s “Awareness Through Movement®” Lessons in 1976 and studied directly with him from 1980-1981. She became an official Feldenkrais Practitioner in 1983 and an Assistant Trainer in 1996. She has been in Sarasota since 2002, practicing and teaching seminars to the public and professionals. In 2011, Kissam continued her studies with Anat Baniel, Ph.D., who assisted Feldenkrais’s work with Elizabeth and other children with special needs, and who created the Anat Baniel Method® of neuro-movement. Ionie’s special raw food cupcakes will be served. Fee is $10. Space is limited; RSVPs required. Location: Ionie’s, 1241 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota. RSVP to 94158-4535.

K.J., Age 58, Englewood, FL

BEFORE

AFTER 5 PLUS

Truly Organic Personal Care Products Try our organic Pearl and Yam shampoo, lip gloss, mascara remover and eye makeup remover!

Purchase any new product and receive a 10% discount off your next purchase! No Preservatives • ALL Natural

941-371-7400

5872 Bee Ridge Rd, Sarasota, FL

To learn more please visit our website at

WINNER Natural Choice Awards Favorite Anti-Aging Practitioner

www.drannaspearlcream.com natural awakenings

May 2015

newsbriefs

Gut health Seminar

Acupuncture Facelift Seminar May 13

Sarasota Specialty Pharmacy

n May 13, at 2 p.m., Dr. Anna Baker, DOM and founder of Faces by Dr. Anna, will present a seminar on how facial muscles age and how they can be fixed with her muscle tightening acupuncture face and necklift technique. Dr. Anna will explain how facial muscles age, from the ‘30s to the ‘80s, and show pictures of actual results. Dr. Anna will describe how details on the face – such as cheek fullness, eye width, nose length and jawline firmness – are key indicators when someone is trying to determine your age. 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, which is unique in that no needles are used on the face. Up to three treatments can be done in one day with a 10-treatment minimum. After treatments are completed, a one or two treatment touch-up is suggested every 18 months to maintain the lift. Dr. Anna’s work has been nationally televised, and she has been voted Sarasota’s favorite anti-aging practitioner.

April 15th at 7:00pm RSVP 366-0880

Seating is limited

Don’t you want to feel better?

It’s all in your gut! For more information call the Harvey Center for Integrative Medicine today to schedule your complimentary 15 minute consultation.

For more information visit FacesbyDrAnna.com, or call 941-924-2723 for seminar reservations or to schedule a free consultation.

Rosemary Court Yoga Studio Welcomes Jen Maecker

DR. FRED HARVEY

TRIPLE BOARD CERTIFIED PHYSICIAN, FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE PRACTICE

CALL US TODAY TO REBUILD YOUR OPTIMAL HEALTH!

941.929.9355

www.harveycenter.com

3982 Bee Ridge Rd Sarasota, FL 34233 14

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

en Maecker has recently joined the teaching staff at Rosemary Court Yoga Studio. She teaches the Vinyasa Flow Mixed Level class on Saturdays, from 9 to 10:15 a.m. This class links the breath with movement through a smooth, flowing series of postures. A 200 RYT with Yoga Alliance, Maecker teaches adults, kids and family yoga classes throughout the Sarasota community. Growing up with a background in dance, Maecker has a deep appreciation for movement. As a dancer, teacher and choreographer, she has integrated yoga to heal injuries and motivate her dance students in a positive light. Maecker is committed to moving with the breath, slowing down the ever quickening pace of modern day activities and cultivating a greater sense of inner peace with a strong practice. In 2012, Maecker took her love for yoga to the next level, as she embarked on Garden of the Heart Yoga’s teacher training program with Betsey Downing and Jaye Martin. In 2014, she also received a Kids Yoga Teacher Certification by Every Kids Yoga, New York, with a focus on children with special needs. Maecker has also studied Tantra philosophy with Bill Mahoney and Douglas Brooks. As a lifelong student of yoga, continues her training and studies with local teachers and workshops throughout the country. Maecker’s classes infuse alignment principles with her unique and challenging Vinyasa style. A heart-felt theme is woven into every class in order to empower students to bring their practice off the mat and into everyday life. Classes are dynamic and challenging, though she will always offer modifications to accommodate new students or injuries. Students are encouraged to play with their edge while discerning patterns in the mind and body. Location: Rosemary Court Yoga Studio, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota. For more information, visit JenMaecker.com or RosemaryCourt.com.

www.nasrq.com

Pearl Cream by Dr. Anna launches “Truly Organic” Personal Care Line

Meditation Classes Offered at Venice Holistic Community Center

Location: Pearl Cream by Dr. Anna Store, 5872 Bee Ridge Road in the Center Gate Plaza at the corner of Bee Ridge and Cattlemen Rds, Sarasota. Store hours are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 941-371-7400.

Location: 714 Shamrock Blvd., Venice.

hen Dr. Anna Baker, founder of the revolutionary anti-aging Pearl Cream by Dr. Anna, discovered that the supposedly organic personal care products she was using were only 7 percent organic and contained toxic chemicals, she decided to formulate her own line of products. She is pleased to announce the beginning of her Truly Organic line, starting in May. The first products are Organic Pearl and Yam Shampoo; Organic Pearl Lip Gloss colored with organic vegetable juice, organic spices and organic cocoa powder with pearl for shimmer and SPF; Organic Mascara Remover and Organic Makeup Remover. Additional products for roll-out later this summer will include Organic Hair Conditioner and more lip gloss shades. Purchase any of the new Truly Organic products in May and receive 10% off your next purchase.

Investigate Climate Censorship in Florida

cientists and state employees report that Governor Rick Scott’s office has discouraged them from using the phrases “climate change,” “global warming” and “sustainability” in official communications, including reports about the future of Florida’s coasts. Florida scientists such as David Hastings, who met with Scott, advised the governor that the state of Florida is one of the most vulnerable states to the impacts of climate change in the U.S. Sea-level rise alone threatens 30 percent of the state’s beaches by 2100. Hastings called the language ban “Orwellian.” According to a report by the Florida Center for Investigative Reporting, the “unwritten policy” was implemented in 2011 after Scott took office and appointed a new Department of Environmental Protection director. Sign the petition to investigate censorship in Florida at http://act.forecastthefacts.org/sign/censorship_ fl_350/?t=4&akid=716.40584.NhkOSw

he Venice Mindfulness Meditation Community (VMMC) is happy to provide a loving community that nurtures and supports the teaching and continuing practice of mindfulness meditation and its application in daily life. VMMC provides instruction in mindfulness meditation, a place to practice, ongoing weekly classes, classes with visiting meditation teachers and opportunities to participate in extended meditation retreats. Mindfulness meditation is not a struggle to force your mind into becoming something it is not. Rather, it is simply the clear observation and gentle acceptance of what is. This is not to say that mindfulness meditation is without challenges. Diligent effort is required to reap the benefits. With practice, you will learn to be with your thinking process in kindness and self-acceptance. This creates space for emotional and mental patterns to gently unwind and lose their grip on our consciousness. An introduction to mindfulness meditation is offered monthly at the Venice Holistic Community Center. Call 941615-7613 for current dates and more information.

Volunteers Needed for Food Drive

enice Cares is part of the “Stamp Out Hunger” food drives, slated this year for May 9. Local postal workers will pick up non-perishable food items left near mailboxes, and many people are needed to help collect and process the estimate 150,000 of food gathered. Donations will be distributed to Center of Hope, Church of the Nazarene, House of Truth, Laurel Civic Association, Salvation Army and South County Food Pantry. Volunteer at VeniceCares.com.

Music Memorabilia/Artwork Sought

he Venice Art Center is seeking artwork and music memorabilia, either collectible or embellished instruments or related items, to display at its Summerfest June 5 through August 7. Items for the display, titled “Musical Expressions,” must be received by May 30. Location: 390 S. Nokomis Ave., Venice. For more information, call Mary Morris at 941-485-7136 or visit VeniceArtCenter. com. natural awakenings

May 2015

newsbriefs OceanGrown Presents Sproutman Steve Meyerowitz

uest Speaker Steve Meyerowitz – AKA Sproutman – will help us clean out, lighten up and feel great, as he shares his knowledge and experience of 38 years of sprouting, juicing and growing wheatgrass. He’ll present on May 24. A raw food potluck will be held from 3 to 4:30 p.m., with his talk following from 4:45 to 5:45 p.m. and a Q&A from 5:45 to 6:15 p.m. Suggested donation of $10 is appreciated.

Location: Waldermere Fire Station Community Room, 2070 Waldermere St., Sarasota. For more information, contact Patty Foley of OceanGrown, Inc. at 504875-1362, email Patty@OceanGrown.com or visit MeetUp.com/Suncoastlivingnutritionsarasota.

Sarasota Opera Announces H-D Season

igh-definition screenings of productions from opera, ballet and theater companies around the world will be presented by the Sarasota Opera. May showings are Verdi’s “I due Foscari,” starring Placido Domigo on May 7 and 10, Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar” on May 28, and Berlioz’s “Benvenuto Cellini” on May 31. Tickets are $18 for current Sarasota Opera subscribers and $20 for single ticket buyers.

Location: William E. Schmidt Opera Theatre at the Sarasota Opera House. For more information on the remainder of the season and to purchase tickets, visit SarasotaOpera.org, phone 941-328-1300 or purchase in person at the box office, 61 N. Pineapple Avenue, Sarasota.

�in ��in �y�ts�

Ancient Wisdom Dramatically Rediscovered �ro�o�nd �armoni�in� o� �i�e �ner�y in �ody !er$%n'( *ner+, -'r.%ni0in+ ❉ 1e(234're 4('$$e$

❉ !"#$%&'()"*$$$❉ 56, 1 1e$$i%n8 9e: 2nd 1<2 !ri=e> 33 9i2: 4er:i2i=':e$ ?@'i('A(e 33 ��

Michelle Giambra 941.228.2972 SuncoastJSJ.com

2014 Winner �at�ral ��oice A�ards Favorite Energy Healer & Favorite Holistic Practitioner MA42460

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

Reiki Offered at ReFlex Arts

ooking for ways to practice or learn more about Reiki? Visit our next Reiki Share at the ReFlex Yoga Center on May 8 from 7 to 9 p.m. This session is taught by Mandy Main, LMT. ReFlex Arts also offers a Master’s level program suitable for those wishing to become Reiki teachers or for those looking to progress their personal energetic practice. Slated for May 30 and 31, the course, “Becoming a Reiki Master,” is the final installment of formal Reiki studies and also just the beginning of discovering and blossoming this energetic craft. Offered only once a year, this program is divided into two sections, Level 3 and 4. Level 3, traditionally called “Shinpiden” in Japanese, is the stage where a student builds strong connections with the teacher and focuses on personal development of their own energy sources. Symbols, mantras and the crystal grids teach the student to send Reiki long distance to individuals or the world at large. Level 4 is the Master’s attunement, taking the student to a level where they are able to attune others and become a part of the lineage that teaches Reiki. This course is suitable for those who have already completed levels 1 & 2, either at ReFlex or another facility. Reiki Level 3: Advanced Reiki practicum, crystal grids and more $300. Reiki Level 4 (Master): Learn how to attune others and become qualified to teach Reiki $350.

Location: Heartwood Retreat Center, 17507 Waterline Rd., Bradenton. For more information, visit HeartwoodRetreatCenter. com, email Contact@ReflexArts.com or stop by the office at 6260 N. Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota.

Let Us Help

GET HEALTHIER with Far Infrared Sauna Therapy

YOU is ad h t tion IAL! Men FREE TR for a

With a monthly membership, you can use the sauna EVERYDAY, for as little as $2.00 a day!

5 BENEFITS OF FAR INFRARED SAUNA USE 1. DETOXIFICATION - FIR Sauna therapy is one of the most effective ways to rid the body of toxic chemicals, heavy metals and excess fat. 2. PAIN RELIEF - Many physicians recommend FIR Sauna therapy to athletes for sports injuries and for patients with chronic pain syndromes. 3. WEIGHT LOSS- Studies show that just 30 minutes can burn upwards of 600 calories!

4. PURIFY THE SKIN - Daily FIR Sauna use will cleanse the pores and detoxify the skin, which means healthier skin. 5. CARDIAC IMPROVEMENT - After six weeks

ONE FREE WEEK with 1 month membership starting at $39 a month + tax

• no contract • no hidden fees

of FIR Sauna therapy, studies show displayed improvement in all patients and reduced medications.

GO TO OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION

We offer Far Infrared Sauna, Whole Body Vibration and Alkaline Water! Call us today to begin your smart and healthy journey to a better you!

941.554.8064 M-F 8am-7pm Sa 9am-4pm 2163 Siesta Drive Sarasota Please visit our website for more detailed information: gofitstudios.com natural awakenings

May 2015

PetSupplyCenterSarasota.com

May Special

Earthborn Pet Food

$3.00 off any dry dog or cat food

Expires 05/31/2015

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

newsbriefs

Suncoast Jin Shin Jyutsu Offers BOGO Half-price Special

ocal favorite energy healer and holistic practitioner, Michelle Giambra of Suncoast Jin Shin Jyutsu, is offering a special in May on one-hour personal energy harmonizing sessions. Pay for one session and get a second session for half-price. Experience profound relaxation, rejuvenation, pain relief and more. An ancient hands-on healing art, Jin Shin Jyutsu is a safe and gentle complement to all healing modalities. Gift certificates are available, providing the opportunity to stock up on unique gifts for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, graduations, weddings and even “just because.” Purchase for yourself or gift someone you love with the experience of customized energy harmonizing for total well-being. Purchase by May 31. Can use through June 30. May not combine with other specials or discounts. Location: Suncoast Jin Shin Jyutsu, 810 Central Avenue in the Rosemary Court Wellness Center, Sarasota. For more information, call 941-228-2972, email Michelle@SuncoastJSJ. com, or visit SuncoastJSJ.com.

Rejuvenate at Heartwood

s spring emerges, a visit to Heartwood Retreat Center for one of the Reflex Arts yoga programs is always special. The garden is in full bloom, the temperature is fantastic, and the positive energy of this healing space invites relaxation and inner peace. What better time to explore the limitless boundaries of this beautiful practice of yoga? Learn to tap into your creativity and healing strength while continuing on the yogic path with any of our upcoming workshops, longer format teacher trainings or just take a day off with one of our summer retreats. With ongoing development and a constant supply of love and creativity poured into Heartwood by holistic teachers and mentors, the diverse offerings continue to fuel our yoga students’ hearts and minds. Aren’t you ready to spend some time in a place where nature and our best natures blend as one? To see a list of upcoming events, visit our website at HeartwoodRetreatCenter.com and sign up for our monthly newsletter. Location: Heartwood Retreat Center, 17507 Waterline Rd., Bradenton. For more information, phone 941-359-9642 or email Contact@ReflexArts.com.

natural awakenings

May 2015

olistic H FOR PETS 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

MAY Special Offer:

MERRICK JERKY CHIP TREATS 4 Flavors Made in the USA

BUY ONE GET ONE

FREE * while supplies last

5411 Fruitville Road Sarasota, FL 34232

petbriefs Cat Depot offers Free Spay/Neuter in Select ZIP Codes

at Depot has received several grants with funding for spay/ neuter for free-roaming cats, as well as personal cats, in zip codes 34232, 34234 and 34237. Free spay/neuter includes Rabies vaccine, FVRCP vaccine and a microchip – a $250 value. “It’s kitten season, and there is no better time to spay or neuter your personal pet, free-roaming neighborhood cat, or mama cat and kittens,” said Shelley Thayer, executive director. “Even a cat that lives indoors may escape and produce kittens, if not sterilized. Every year, millions of homeless cats are tragically euthanized. You can increase the live release rate and give cats a chance to grow old by sterilizing your pet and neighborhood strays. Please call us to learn how.” Cat Depot, a nonprofit, 501(c)3 no-kill, free-roaming facility, supports more than 130 cats and kittens on any given day. Open Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Handicap accessible. Shop the Cat Depot Supply and Gift Store, specializing in wet and dry cat food, litter, calming products, treats and unique gifts. Location: 2542 17th St., Sarasota. For more information, visit CatDepot.org. To schedule an appointment for the free spay/neuter program, please call Cat Depot’s Cat Care Clinic at 941-366-2404.

Shelter Angels find Forever Humans

he special Shelter Angel Fund at Suncoast Humane Society helped 26 exceptional pets find new homes in 2014. These are animals who were able to get the medical help they needed to become healthy enough for adoption. The organization will continue its “No Birth Campaign” throughout the year, to encourage spay/neuter of as many pets in the community as possible. As an open admission animal shelter that never turns away an animal in need, the Suncoast Humane Society knows that the logical approach to a no-kill community is to help reduce the number of pets being born who will become homes. A Capital Campaign for the new home of Suncoast Humane Society is also underway. Location: 6781 San Casa Drive, Englewood. For more information, visit Humane.org or call 941-474-7884.

KUDOS Venice Sunrise Rotary Adopts Guide Dog

941-378-4367

The Venice Sunrise Rotary sponsored its second guide dog. Rolf is a yellow Lab, born May 17, 2013. Rolf completed training in March 2015, graduated from Southeast Guide Dog Academy and was matched to Laura Beyer, a visually-impaired student.

5770 Ranch Lake Blvd East Bradenton, FL

941-753-PAWS (7297) www.holisticforpets.com 20

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

natural awakenings

May 2015

healthbriefs

Meditation Improves Brain Health Rehabilitating the Digestive H System Naturally arvard Medical School researchers working at the Massachusetts General Hospital have determined that meditation can improve brain health. The researchers studied 16 volunteers that took part in an eight-week mindfulness meditation study at the University of Massachusetts Center for Mindfulness. The participants conducted mindfulness meditation exercises for an average of 27 minutes a day. Before and after the trial, the subjects were given tests and magnetic resonance imaging of their brains. The researchers found that the practice of mindfulness meditation resulted in increased gray matter density in the hippocampus of the brain, an area associated with increased memory and learning capacity, plus a greater sense of compassion and introspection.

HEART DISEASE DETECTED EARLY WITH BREATH TESTING

esearch published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology has found that breath testing can reveal potential heart disease and artery problems quickly and efficiently. Testing 31 patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) together with 34 healthy control subjects, the study found that concentrations of volatile gases such as propanol, ethanol and ammonia were significantly different among the heart disease patients. It also found that the breath can reveal specific details about the heart’s condition. The breath test can be analyzed in fewer than 30 minutes.

Italian Court Links Boy’s Autism to a Vaccine

ast September, a Milan Court held in favor of plaintiffs that claimed that three doses of the hexavalent GlaxoSmithKline vaccine Infanrix Hexa that were administered to an infant beginning in 2006 caused autism later when he was a young boy. The vaccine is used for polio, diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis B, whooping cough and haemophilus influenzae type B. After hearing from several medical experts, the court ruled that the child likely suffered autism and brain damage as a result of the vaccine’s content of mercury and aluminum, combined with a genetic mutation in the child rendering greater susceptibility. The ruling ordered damages to be paid by the Italian government’s national vaccine injury compensation program. The court’s decision was also based upon GlaxoSmithKline’s list of possible adverse events resulting from the vaccine, which included five cases of autism during clinical trials. Today in the U.S., most vaccines routinely given to children under 6 years of age are free of thimerosal, a mercury-derived preservative.

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

anufacturers add preservatives to food products in order to reduce spoilage by killing bacteria and fungus in the container. However, preservatives can also kill the intestinal tract’s supply of good bacteria, which help the body absorb nutrients and digest food. Diets high in sugar and carbohydrates also harm the gut, feeding intestinal fungus such as Candida and allowing it to take over. According to Steven Frank, founder of herbal remedies company Nature’s Rite, a well-balanced, three-pronged approach can rehabilitate the digestive system. The first step is to kill off the bad bacteria and irritating fungus with a broad-spectrum antimicrobial that is biocompatible, yet effective. Frank suggests an enhanced aqueous colloid of silver that is optimized to help clear the microbes out of the digestive system. It’s best taken on an empty stomach, dosing two ounces every two hours for two to three days; this prepares the system for enhanced effectiveness of the following treatment. The second step is taking a good probiotic daily for at least one month. Finally, take a combination of herbs to increase mucus to protect the digestive system and reduce histamine sensitivity, allowing the intestines to rebuild a healthy lining. Frank, an innovative herbalist, suggests a combination of plantain, licorice, aloe vera, peppermint, marshmallow root and slippery elm bark. When working to heal the body, basic building blocks are required, so it’s critical that those using this approach take 2,000 milligrams of vitamin C, 10,000 international units of vitamin D and a good B-complex daily. For more information, call 888-4654404 or visit NaturesRiteRemedies. com. See ad, page 29.

Weight Gain in Moms Lowers Toxins in Newborns

any expectant mothers try to know about everything they put into and onto their bodies as multiple studies are finding that infants are exposed to toxins during pregnancy. A new study of 325 expectant mothers has determined that the baby’s exposure to toxins in the womb decreases when the mother’s weight gain during pregnancy approaches the guidelines recommended by the Institute of Medicine (IOM) in 2009. Women that are underweight at the start of pregnancy are advised to gain between 28 and 40 pounds, women of a healthy weight 25 to 35 pounds, overweight women 15 to 25 pounds and obese women 11 to 20 pounds. The researchers found that expectant mothers with a gestational weight that meets or exceeds the IOM guidelines gave birth to infants with reduced toxin levels. In their analysis of the umbilical cord blood of mothers from Spain, the researchers tested for 14 pesticides and 21 other environmental toxins, including seven polychlorobiphenyls (PCB). Other influencers such as age, education and fish consumption may also be relevant.

To Get Healthy, Get a Healthy Partner

aving a healthier partner may be one of the best things to do for our own health. Research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association Internal Medicine finds that losing weight, stopping smoking or becoming more active is easier with a partner that has led the way in any or all healthy pursuits. The study authors reviewed data collected by the UK Health Behavior Research Center at the University College London that followed 3,700 couples between 2002 and 2012—most of them ages 50 and older and married. Those that smoked at the beginning of the study were more likely to quit by the end of it if their partners quit smoking, and those that were physically inactive at the beginning of the study were more likely to become active if their partners did so first. About two-thirds of the men became newly active during the course of the study. Men with wives that had lost weight were more likely to also shed pounds during the study, and women with husbands that didn’t lose weight were less likely to do so through the study period.

ul: f i t u a e B Naturally! European Hair Designer

specializes in: All Nutrient Organic Hair Color/ Products Contemporary hair cutting/shaping techniques

Helix USA design cuts by Jutta Call 941-629-0074 Today for your professional consultation withJutta

The “Vines” Shopping Center 701 JC Center Court, Unit 10 Port Charlotte, FL www.europeanhairdesigner.com

Motherhood:

All love begins and ends there. ~Robert Browning

Unlimited Yoga for $108/month 3 month contract required Sarasota’s #1 Favorite Yoga Studio

natural awakenings

May 2015

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

Corporate Climate

Companies Slowly Embrace Sustainability The 2015 State of Green Business report (Tinyurl. com/2015GreenBusinessReport), which assesses the environmental performances of companies worldwide, along with the trends to watch, is produced by GreenBiz, in partnership with Trucost. Collectively, companies have been nibbling at the edges of challenges such as climate change, food security, ecosystems preservation and resource efficiency. One measure of corporate engagement going forward will be proactive involvement on political issues that could accelerate the transition to a low-carbon and more sustainable economy. It remains to be seen whether companies can afford to sit on the sidelines, letting the political process unfold, or worse, play defense against changes that might roil their status quo. 2015 will be an interesting year on multiple fronts, especially with the launch of the new sustainable development goals at the United Nations (UN) in New York this fall, along with UN climate talks in Paris in December. Both will be tests of corporate engagement and resolve in driving the kinds of change many of their CEOs publicly call for. The reports’ findings of companies’ progress in greenhouse gas and emissions, air pollutants, water use and solid waste production are all leveling off or even declining.

Animal Genocide

‘Lethal Control’ Trades Off Species Over the next four years, the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers will shoot 16,000 double-crested cormorants nesting near the Columbia River, in Oregon, at a cost of $1.5 million a year and eliminate almost 100 sea lions because both feed on endangered salmon and steelhead trout. “If people knew how many animals are killed at taxpayer expense, they’d be horrified,” says Camilla Fox, executive director of Project Coyote, a San Francisco Bay Area nonprofit. Termed “lethal control”, there’s a growing trend to kill one species to protect another, and not all methods used are humane. In 2012, Dennis Orthmeyer, acting director of California’s Wildlife Services, said, “We pride ourselves on our ability to get it done without many people knowing about it.” Climate change, reduced habitat and food supplies, and the introduction of non-native species are the result of human interference. “With society’s growing footprint, lethal control can only increase,” observes Michael Scott, a University of Idaho ecologist. A plan to poison 4,000 ravens will protect greater sage grouse. More mountain lions will be killed to save bighorn sheep. The human rampage goes on, and concerned citizens are advised to urge lawmakers to end lethal control and protect wildlife habitat sustainably. Take action at Tinyurl.com/AnimalLiberationFrontCampaign. 24

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

Dirty Dollars

Stores Filled with Toxic Products HealthyStuff, a project of the Michigan-based Ecology Center, in collaboration with the Campaign for Healthier Solutions (CHS), has released a report, A Day Late and a Dollar Short: Discount Retailers are Falling Behind on Safer Chemicals, about toxic chemicals found in dollar store products. It includes test results for 164 dollar store products such as toys, jewelry, school supplies and household items and found that 81 percent contained at least one hazardous chemical above a level that generates concern.” The campaign sent a letter to the CEOs of the four largest dollar store chains, including Family Dollar, Dollar Tree, Dollar General, and 99 Cents Only, urging them to stop the sale of these unsafe products, especially to communities of low-income and ethnic families that already live in more polluted areas and food deserts, and adopt policies that will instead protect both customers and their own businesses. Combined, these discount chains have annual sales totaling more than $36 billion and operate more stores nationally than Walmart. The CHS is asking for a comprehensive set of reforms; communities need to let dollar store chains know that they want safer products and join local and national efforts advocating for nontoxic products. Scroll to Dollar Store Report at Healthy Stuff.org for the complete test results. Take action at NontoxicDollarStores.org.

globalbriefs

Eco-Eating

Tool Pool

Town Eateries Embrace Sustainability

Instead of buying or renting expensive specialized machinery, farmers in Maine can now join a “lending library” of farm tools on short-term loan by using the Shared-Use Farm Equipment Pool, a partnership between the Maine Farmland Trust (MFT) and the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association. There are already equipment co-ops and joint machinery ownerships around the country; now the sharing economy being established in urban areas seems to be catching on in rural America, too. For a $100 annual fee, members can gain access to a seedbed cultivator, twoshank sub-soiler, plastic mulch layer, tine weeder, and strip and ridge tillers. The 1,200-pound mulch layer, for instance, retails for more than $2,000. Each piece is undeniably useful, but pricey, especially given the cost per use. Farmers have a three-day window to use the tools. The pool came about when Mike Gold, an MFT staff member, saw the need to lower costs for both new and seasoned farmers. Currently, most of the tool pool members are newer vegetable farmers, but Gold says there’s appeal for established land stewards, too: “They see the opportunity to use that one piece of equipment that they may only need once a year or once every few years.”

The city of Maplewood, Missouri, outside St. Louis, has teamed up with the Green Dining Alliance to become the area’s first Green Dining District, with at least 25 percent of all of its independently owned businesses certified by the Green Dining Alliance (GDA). The GDA helps businesses with sustainability and green business practices while also helping them save money. So far, eight restaurants in downtown Maplewood are GDA-certified. Green Dining Alliance’s Olivia Engel says, “It’s a win-win that makes sense for businesses and communities.” The city is also encouraging the program by subsidizing Green Dining Alliance membership fees.

Source: ModernFarmer.com

View updates at GreenDiningAlliance.org.

Farmers Share Farm Machinery

Persistent Pacers

Women Marathoners Better at Maintaining Speed Danish researchers studying almost 2 million marathon results from 131 marathon races over a period of five years have concluded that women are 18.6 percent better than men at maintaining a consistent pace overall, compared to the first and the last parts of the distance. Among the population studied, 68.5 percent were men and 31.5 percent were women. The research further suggests that both men and women “burn out” en route and could improve their marathon results significantly simply by starting slower. Source: Consumer.HealthDay.com

EPA Blooper

Bee-Toxic Pesticide Approved The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved cyantraniliprole, a new systemic pesticide that is toxic to bees, for agricultural use and has set allowable residue limits on almonds, berries, leafy vegetables and milk. The EPA also approved it as a seed treatment, so it may show up in GMO (genetically modified) seeds in the future. Cyantraniliprole has been proven to cause liver toxicity, and the EPA notes that it also alters the stability of the thyroid as tested on laboratory rats. Although the agency maintains that the pesticide is not a direct thyroid toxicant, any indirect effects on this glandular function are likely to disrupt the endocrine system. As its current endocrine disruptor screening program is still in the process of validating tests, EPA registration of the new active ingredient is questionable. Source: EcoWatch.com

Enflamed Water Home Flame Retardants Found in River

Scientists with the Washington Toxics Coalition tested household dust and laundry wastewater from 20 homes in the state’s cities of Longview and Vancouver and took samples of incoming and outgoing flow from two wastewater treatment plants that discharge into the Columbia River, the Northwest’s biggest waterway. They detected flame retardants in all the tests. The conclusion of the study, published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology, is that flame retardants are sloughing off household products such as couches and TVs and collecting on people’s clothing, washing out in the laundry and passing through wastewater treatment plants into local waterways. Source: WaToxics.org natural awakenings

May 2015

ecotip

actionalert

Raised Right

Investigate Climate Censorship in Florida

Organic Flowers Honor Mom and Mother Earth The Mother’s Day tradition of gifting mom with flowers, including such perennial favorites as lilies, orchids, tulips and roses, can be practiced in a sustainable manner. Buying organic varieties protects workers, families and the environment. Flowers grown with conventional techniques contribute to the contamination of groundwater and streams through fertilizer and pesticide runoff that can also threaten animal species. Many of the cut flowers are grown in South America, where farms continue to use pesticides that are restricted in the U.S. and cited as highly toxic by the World Health Organization. GreenAmerica.org provides several helpful tips on bringing joy to mom on her special day in eco-friendly ways: Grow Your Own. Buy organic bulbs or seeds in consumer seed catalogs and retail racks or online from reputable sources that include SeedsOfChange.com. Children can then grow their own flowers to make them mean even more. Tips for natural weed and pest control, environmentally friendly watering, making raised garden beds and more are posted at EarthEasy.com/yard-garden. Buy Local and Organic. Support local communities and save shipping costs and energy by purchasing chemical-free organic flowers from a local farmers’ market or community supported agriculture. Online retailers like OrganicBouquet.com and LocalHarvest.org/organic-flowers.jsp offer U.S. Department of Agriculture-certified organic flowers. Ask Local Florists to Go Organic. Find out if local florists purchase any organic and local flowers, and if not, request that they do so. Also, eschew plastic wraps and vases for eco-friendly flowers to avoid toxic ingredients and the carbon manufacturing footprint. Fun options to hold and showcase the gift include old, recycled Mason and glass jars and bottles or an artistic vase from an estate sale or antique or thrift shop.

Natural Dentistry Ray Behm DDS

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

Scientists and state employees report that Governor Rick Scott’s office has discouraged them from using the phrases “climate change, global warming and sustainability” in official communications, including reports about the future of Florida’s coasts. Florida scientists such as David Hastings have advised the governor that the state of Florida is one of the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change in the U.S. The damaging effects of sea level rise alone may threaten 30 percent of the state’s beaches by 2100. Hastings, who met with Scott last year, called the language ban “Orwellian.” According to a report by the Florida Center for Investigative Reporting, the “unwritten policy” was implemented in 2011 after Scott took office and appointed a new Department of Environmental Protection director. Sign the petition to investigate censorship in Florida at Tinyurl.com/ FloridaClimateCensor.

Eliminate Toxins Naturally at Colon Therapy Clinic by Suzi Harkola

olon cleansing is a centuries-old alternative therapy for releasing wastes, toxins and mucous from the large intestine and then from successive organs until the whole system has been cleansed. The practice can be traced back to 15th-century Egyptians and Greeks. There was a general understanding that as the body completes its growth process and begins to age, the regeneration systems slow down. At this point, the build-up of toxins and waste in our bodies tends to impair optimal functioning of our organs. A toxic colon can affect the body in many ways. The local effects of the poisonous residue are irritation and inflammation, expressed by constipation, diarrhea, fatigue, headaches, dull eyes, poor skin, aching muscles, joint pain, depression, bloating, mucous in the stool, poor appetite, fluid retention, gum infection and insomnia. The intestinal toxemia can result in arthritis, asthma, diverticulitis, skin disease, colitis, psoriasis, fibrosis of the breast, respiratory disorders, eye/ear/ nose/throat disease, Crohn’s disease and cancer. Notably, the toxins that enter the bloodstream from the colon can burden the liver and other organs. Because the liver plays such a vital role in clearing the blood of toxins, any impairment of liver function may aggravate the damage already done by bowel toxemia. Cleansing of the colon and change in diet can reverse these effects. Performed by licensed therapists, the procedure is a refreshing and dynamic re-oxygenation of the body, enhanced food absorption, increased energy level and improved digestion. It has been known to relieve joint and muscular pain, headaches and constipation. Those suffering from kidney and liver ailments and cancer patients have also

reported benefits from the treatments. By removing toxins, there can be antiaging effects, and women’s health issues are often alleviated as well. Fecal matter can accumulate and harden in the colon, possibly preventing the absorption of water and nutrients. This could lead to constipation, an environment that allows harmful bacteria and yeast to grow, and toxins that are absorbed into the bloodstream, affecting the entire body. By stripping toxic mucous that lines the bowel, a definite contributor to disease is eliminated. For readers unfamiliar with this treatment modality, the concept is really quite simple: trained and licensed therapists gently, with no pressure, introduce purified water into the large intestine, using disposable equipment while the patient lies on a comfortable bed. The water is then released. As the water is flowing out, the abdominal area is gently massaged. This process is repeated several times during the treatment. Alain Menard, LMT, LTC, and Allaesia Menard, LMT, LTC opened their practice, Colon Therapy Clinic, in Sarasota 27 years ago. As licensed pioneers in the field for the past 41 years, they developed the “Menard Technique” of comfortable, no-pressure inflow of purified water into the entire colon, using the highest quality of disposable equipment to promote gentle treatments. A series of eight to 12 treatments is recommended to release a lifetime of accumulation. This technique became the model for the state of Florida and was adopted into its colon therapy schools’ curriculum. Its success spread to California, Colorado, Arizona and Asheville, NC, where they have taught other colon therapists in an effort to elevate their procedures to the most effective technique available. “We’ve been able to help many people of all ages here in Sarasota,” said Allaesia. “Our goal has always been to provide the safest clinicallybased treatment with hospital quality equipment and care, but in a spa-like setting. Our clinic, located in the Ringling Professional Center, offers more treatment rooms and a calming ambiance. We strive to make our

Common Symptoms of Toxicity • Fatigue/Insomnia • Gas/Belching/Flatulence/Bloating • Headaches/Dark Under-eye Circles • Irritability/Nervousness • Nausea/Poor Appetite/Constipation • Depression/Anxiety/Worry • Protruding Abdomen/Abdominal Pain • Lack of Interest in Work or Play • Aches of Pains • Loss of Memory/Concentration • Overweight/Craving for Food • Menstrual Problems • Swelling of Legs/Abnormal Blood Pressure • Skin Problems/Sallow Complexion • Sagging Posture/Pot Belly • Coated Tongue/Fetid Breath • Increased Body Odors • Cold Hands and Feet clients feel comfortable while they’re being healed.” Alain agreed, with the observation that many of the clients they see now have been with them since they opened in Sarasota. He added, “Our Angel of Water® is the world’s premier colon hydrotherapy system. It is registered with the Food & Drug Administration and is found in hospitals in many other countries, including Germany, Italy, France, Malaysia, China, New Zealand, Australia and Sweden. We are one of the very few clinics in Southwest Florida to have it. We offer both open and closed colon irrigation systems, as well as other services that complement the colon cleansing for a total cleansing experience, including ionic (double) footbaths and ear candling. We’re always growing and changing to meet the medical needs of our patients who seek natural, alternative ways to better health.” Location: 2831 Ringling Blvd., Suite 121F, Sarasota. For more information, call 941-922-7744 or visit ColonTherapy.com. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. To learn more about Angel of Water® visit AngelOfWater.com. natural awakenings

May 2015

Acupuncture, Chinese herbs and Qi Gong exercises have been shown to be very effective in addressing Wei Syndrome.

MS - A Tale of Three Organ Systems

A Powerful Natural Treatment Option in Chinese Medicine for Multiple Sclerosis by Rene Ng

What Is Multiple Sclerosis? Multiple Sclerosis, better known as MS, is an illness of the autoimmune system. According to the National MS Society, this involves an abnormal process that is directed against the body’s Central Nervous System (the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves) by the immune system. During this process, the immune system attacks the myelin, which are fatty substances that surround and insulate the nerve fibers along with the nerve fibers themselves. Scar tissues are formed as a result. Individuals suffering from MS report symptoms including walking difficulties, muscle fatigue, vision impairment, bowel issues, cognitive issues and neuropathic pain, to name a few.

MS Is More Common In Women than In Men According to the National MS Society, women are at least two to three times (with a ratio as high as three or four to one) more likely to be diagnosed with MS than men. Most people are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50, although MS can occur in young children and significantly older adults. From a Western medicine perspective, there is no known cure for MS, and treatments focus on minimizing relapses which could lead to an exasperation of the disease. Typical treatments include regular injections of medication such as Avonex, Betaseron and Copaxon to prevent the immune system from becoming active. Unfortunately, these drugs come with a wide range of side effects that can cause serious damage to a person’s health.

MS - Over 2,000 Years Old MS is a relatively young disease (less than 200 years old, according to the National MS Society) in Western medicine; however, the earliest records of the disease go back several thousand years in Chinese medicine history. There, it is categorized as a Wei Syndrome and refers to a syndrome marked by muscular flaccidity or atrophy of the limbs accompanied with motor impairment. Over the years, 28

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

In Chinese Medicine, Wei Syndrome is a disorder resulting from imbalances found in the body’s spleen, kidney and liver organ systems. Also, in Chinese Medicine, each organ system, in addition to its functions detailed in various western anatomy texts, also possess unique functions and energetic properties that contribute to the total integrated, interactive functioning of the entire body system. The Liver manages the connective tissues and the sinews, as well as the eyes, and can be dramatically affected by stress and emotions. The spleen manages the muscles, the transformation of food and drinks as part of the digestive process, and is easily affected by raw foods (especially raw vegetables) and cold drinks. The kidney manages the bones and the ears, along with cognitive function of the brain. Therefore, depending on which of the three organ systems is affected, the MS individual will present with symptoms associated with the affected organ system. If the liver system is out of balance, the individual can experience eye problems, emotional instability and motor impairment due to issues with the tendons, ligaments and connective tissues. If the spleen system is out of balance, the MS individual will present with symptoms associated with muscle weakness, spasms or tightness, bowel issues, food sensitivity issues, bloating and water retention. If the kidney system is out of balance, the MS individual will present with reduced cognitive functions, weak bones, back, knee or neck pain, poor memory, foggy brain and urinary system issues. If more than one of the three organ systems is out of balance, the MS individual can exhibit combined symptoms from the organ systems affected.

MS – A Circulatory Impairment Disorder All symptoms associated with MS – fatigue, weak muscles, poor bowels, poor memory, etc. – can, in one way or another, be tied back to reduced functionality of the body’s circulation system. All three aforementioned organ systems associated with MS plays a prominent role in the production and circulation of blood, from a Chinese Medicine perspective. The liver stores blood and manages its circulation throughout the whole body. The spleen assists the heart in the production of blood. The kidney produces and houses the energy (called “Qi”) that is needed to move the blood from point A to point B. Hence, the underperformance of any or all of these organ systems will negatively affect the production and circulation of blood, causing related blood-deficiency symptoms. In addition, the entire body works as a whole network in which all the organ systems interact and depend on one another. Therefore, the imbalance of any organ systems, along with an underperforming circulatory system, will ultimately affect each and every organ system in the body, leading to a continual decline of the individual’s health, MS-related or not.

Addressing MS with Chinese Medicine Chinese Medicine goes well beyond Western medicine’s scope of “addressing MS by preventing the immune system from becoming active.” Instead, it identifies the source of

why the immune system is attacking itself, addresses that source, and simultaneously works on the MS symptoms the patient is experiencing. In the treatment plan, all three organ systems are addressed and strengthened with any combination of Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine, Moxibustion, Cupping and Chinese Massage Therapy, as needed. These are also used to invigorate the blood and jump-start the circulatory system. Over time, these will have a positive effect on the MS symptoms which will slowly subside. The MS individual will end up experiencing longer sustained periods without relapses as the body gets stronger and healthier. Overall, the quality of life for the individual with MS improves dramatically.

Additional Tips for Addressing MS 1. Breathe plenty of fresh air. Oxygen-rich blood circulating the body goes a long way toward improving the performance of the body’s various organ systems. 2. Join a Qi Gong or Tai Chi class. These exercises, when practiced regularly (especially daily), help keep the joints and muscles limber, flexible and healthy. Oxygen intake is maximized with the slow, smooth, rhythmic moves which also help to reduce stress. 3. Avoid ice cold drinks – drink warm or room-temperature. 4. Eat more cooked vegetables, especially leafy greens. 5. Reduce or eliminate the amount of alcohol and coffee consumed. 6. Quit smoking. 7. Drink chrysanthemum and green teas. 8. Avoid being sun exposure for extended periods of time to prevent the body from overheating.

9. Manage and reduce stress in your life. Find outlets to redirect stagnated stressful energies and to generate laughter. 10. Schedule regular physical exercises. 11. Regularly scheduled full-body massages will help keep the muscles relaxed, blood-rich and healthy. 12. Adopt a low-fat diet and make sure to have an adequate intake of Omega-3 oils. 13. Ensure optimum Vitamin D levels and regular intake. 14. Reduce or eliminate dairy from your diet. 15. Go to bed at a decent hour and get a good night’s sleep. 16. Take turmeric extracts and fresh ginger root regularly. Seeing a natural health care provider such as a licensed Acupuncture Physician regularly goes a long way toward helping you manage MS effectively over the long haul, minimizing its relapses and symptoms, while improving your quality of life. Rene Ng, DOM, AP, L.Ac, is a board-certified, licensed Acupuncture Physician and Chinese Herbalist located in Sarasota, Florida. In addition to cancer care, pain management, hypertensive disorders and women’s health issues, MS is one of his many specialties, and he has extensive experience in addressing MS with Chinese Medicine. He was unexpectedly thrown into the MS world when his wife was diagnosed with the disease in 2004. Since then, she has been under his care with Chinese Medicine, relying primarily on Acupuncture and Chinese herbs, and has been healthy with minimal relapses over these years. In 2014, he was voted Sarasota’s “Favorite Acupuncture Physician” for a second year in a row and was also the area’s “Favorite Anti-Aging Practitioner.” Ng can be reached at 941-773-5156 or via email: RNG@ChineseMedicalSolutions.com.

Nutritional therapy works best when you can absorb the nutrition... fix the gut FIRST! There are more people today with digestive problems than without. Our damaged food supply and dependence on antibiotics has caused terrible damage to our systems by shifting the flora in our gut. As we take vitamins and supplements, we are missing the biggest question of all: are we absorbing these products? The Digestive Rehabilitation Kit is designed to:

• Kill the bad bacteria and fungus in your gut • Re-seed the gut with beneficial bacteria • Restore the integrity and functionality of the intestinal lining

Order online at MyNaturesRite.com or call 800-991-7088

You eat well, but can you absorb the nutrition? Rehabilitation Kit 20% Digestive with coupon code DRK20 OFF Everyone can benefit from restoring their gut. I have seen so many “mystery” illnesses and symptoms disappear when a healthy gut has been restored. Fix the cause, don’t chase the symptoms. - Steven Frank, Master Herbalist.

natural awakenings

May 2015

Breast Thermography: and/or Breast Mammography

by Rita Rimmer

hen comparison is made between Breast Thermography and Breast Mammography, typically two main differences are cited: 1) mammography uses ionizing radiation, thermography uses none; 2) mammography uses compression, thermography uses none. Why are these differences important to note? I’d like to think that everyone knows the dangers of ionizing radiation; however, I’ve observed that most people, even if they’re aware of the dangers, do not question its use. We trust our healthcare professionals and believe our government when we’re told that having an X-ray or any other radiation test, has “the same amount of radiation our bodies absorb flying across the country,” which is the standard answer given when one asks. But how can it be true that the amount of radiation received from a chest X-ray is equal to the amount from a mammogram, CT scan or a PET scan? Do all these tests give us the same amount of ionization radiation? Of course not! Yet, that’s what we’re led to believe if we ask. Today, radiation testing is convenient, profitable and unaccountable. You go to your dentist, you must have a dental X-ray; you go to your gynecologist, you must have a mammogram; you must have a surgery, you must have X-rays; you go to a chiropractor, he must take X-rays; you go to the ER with chest pain or abdominal pain, you must have a CT scan, etc. etc. Then there’s the frequent response: “We didn’t get 30

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

good clear images so we need to take more views or repeat the test.” Is anyone keeping track of the number of radiation tests you’re having and the amount of radiation you’ve had, let’s say, in one year? The answer is “no.” Radiology techs must be monitored for radiation levels they may be exposed to, but our concerns are waived off as irrelevant. Screening mammograms are strongly recommended every year. If the results are questionable, a diagnostic mammogram is done, sometimes the same day. Then you may need a biopsy, which may be mammography-guided. Some women are brought back for follow-up mammograms every six months if a particular area needs close monitoring. There is no doubt that radiation testing is convenient and profitable and there should be no doubt that accountability for the amount of damage ionizing radiation is causing is non-existent. There has been more talk in the last few years about the correlation between increased use of radiation testing and the increased cancer rates, but not enough, and certainly not loud enough. We’ve been duped into believing that if we don’t get mammograms every year, we will die from breast cancer. Well, what do we tell those many women who’ve faithfully had their yearly mammogram and still die from breast cancer? Does having a yearly mammogram save you from dying? Research into this question consistently shows that there’s no appreciable reduction in the mortality rates due to yearly screening mammograms. And, can mammograms be held accountable for causing breast cancers? This statement appears on the American Cancer Society’s website under Radiation Exposure from Mammograms: “The level of radiation from a mammogram today does not significantly increase the breast cancer risk for a woman who gets regular mammograms. In theory, repeated X-rays might have the potential to cause cancer, but the benefits of mammography outweigh any possible harm from the radiation exposure.” There are no statistics on the number of radiation-induced cancers that I can find that supports this statement – is it 1 in 1,000,000, 1 in 10,000 or 1 in 100? In any case, mammograms remain the “gold standard” for breast cancer detection, and radiation tests, in general, are the “gold standard” in our healthcare system, at an ever-increasing rate. We must become more educated and discerning consumers. Ask about the necessity of any medical test; keep track of how many radiation tests you have, the reasons and the results --- when you see them all listed, it may alarm you. Try to minimize having routine radiation tests. If you think a test is ordered for the convenience and liability concerns of the healthcare provider and will not yield appreciable information or diagnosis, really consider whether or not to have it.

Breast Compression Breast compression should also be a concern. Whether

it’s a regular mammogram or a digital mammogram or 3-D tomosynthesis mammography, there still remains compressing the breasts to produce the images. Some women suffer great pain and visible damage that may take weeks to heal. And, to be fair, some women have no visible problem at all. But what damage is caused inside the breasts in both cases? Compressing the breasts is an injury to the body. Breast tissue is damaged, thereby damaging cells. Damaged cells are most likely to become malignant. In case there is a malignant tumor, yet undetected, the possibility exists that when the breasts are compressed, some malignant cells could be expelled from the tumor into the blood stream or lymph system, potentially “spreading” the cancer. Most experts dismiss this possibility, but isn’t it common sense? Given these two very important “drawbacks” of mammography, we are still told that we must, whether we like it or not, have mammograms. Little, if any, research money is being spent to develop other, safer, means of detection. Breast ultrasound and breast MRI, neither of which depend on radiation or compression, aren’t done unless a mammogram first indicates they are justified to be done. And little attention is being given to the use of breast thermography as an adjunct to screening mammography. Thermography, without using ionization radiation or breast compression, can supply much needed information in the detection of breast cancer. The rate of detection of both together can raise early detection in the 90 percentile rather than mammograms alone with less than 50 percent detection. Thermography can also help in reducing the false positive/ false negative dilemma associated with mammography alone, thereby reducing the number of unnecessary biopsies. Thermography can be very useful to improving the odds, however, it is, generally, denied its place in breast cancer detection. Rita D. Rimmer, Certified Clinical Thermographer, is the owner of Health Imaging, 2750 Bahia Vista, Suite 109, Sarasota. Call 941-355-1007 or visit HealthyThermalImaging.com for more information.

Hypnosis for Health, Well Being, and Success ✓ Take control of your life ❏ ✓ Relieve stress ❏

your mind and spirit from false fears, ✓ Free ❏ negative thoughts and self-imposed limitations ✓ Learn about your past life ❏

Please Call 941.266.4402 Katherine Woodward

Certified Hypnotist, member of NGH since 1996

Think Spring, Green Living, and Adopting a Manatee. Call 1-800-432-(JOIN) 5646 savethemanatee.org

Photo © David Schrichte

Check out our weekly podcasts for free at www.cslsarasota.com

natural awakenings

May 2015

RETHINKING BREAST HEALTH Natural ways to keep breasts smooth, pain-free and firm, while reducing the risk of cancer. by Lisa Marshall

e’ve been conditioned to narrowly define breast health in terms of pink ribbon campaigns, cancer awareness marches and cold, steel mammography machines. Nearly 30 years after anticancer drug maker Imperial Chemical Industries (now AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals) established the first National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October 1985, many women have come to equate healthy breasts with cancer-free breasts, and assume the most important thing they can do is undergo regular screening. But amid this chorus, some women’s health advocates are striving to get a different message across: There are a host of steps women can take to not only fend off disease in the future, but keep their breasts in optimal condition today. “We need to change the conversation about our breasts from how to avoid breast cancer and detect it early to how to have healthy breasts and enjoy them,” says Dr. Christiane Northrup, an obstetrician and gynecologist from Yarmouth, Maine, and author of the new book Goddesses Never Age: The Secret Prescription for Radiance, Vitality, and Well-Being.

breasts are deeply connected to your femininity, compassion and sensuality,” says Hawaiian Naturopathic Doctor Laurie Steelsmith, co-author of Natural Choices for Women’s Health. Because breasts are extremely sensitive to hormonal fluctuations throughout the body, they can also serve as a barometer of overall health. “If you’re having chronic breast symptoms, it can be your body’s wisdom saying, ‘Help. Something’s wrong.’ Women need to listen.” While some premenstrual swelling and tenderness is normal, exaggerated or persistent pain is often a sign of systemic estrogen dominance in relation to progesterone. It’s common in the years leading up to menopause, but can also hint at impaired thyroid function, because low levels of thyroid hormones have been shown to boost estrogen in breast tissue, advises Steelsmith. Large, fluid-filled cysts or fibrous lumps, while non-cancerous, can also be a reflection of overexposure to harmful chemicals and toxin buildup, combined

Healthy Breasts, Healthy Body

In adolescence, breast changes are the first to signal the arrival of womanhood. When she’s aroused, a woman’s nipples harden and change color. When a woman gives birth, her breasts fill with life-giving milk. “In all these ways, your 32

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

with poor lymph flow, notes Dr. Elizabeth Vaughan, an integrative physician in Greensboro, North Carolina. “If a woman has lumpy, bumpy breasts, they probably contain too many toxins, and those toxins are primarily estrogenic.” Addressing such symptoms is important not only to relieve discomfort, but also because excess estrogen can fuel future cancer risk, says Vaughan. Any new, suspicious lump should be evaluated by a professional. Also, severe breast tenderness combined with nipple discharge could be a sign of infection or a problem with the pituitary gland, so it should also be checked. But typically, subtle natural healthcare steps can go a long way toward restoring breast wellness. For nipple tenderness, Steelsmith recommends chaste-tree berry (175 milligrams [mg] of powdered extract or 40 drops daily). The herbal supplement mimics naturally occurring progesterone in the body, helping to counter estrogen dominance. Vitamin E (400 to 800 international units [IU] per day) and evening primrose oil (1,500 mg twice a day) have also been shown to alleviate breast tenderness. For fibrous or cyst-filled breasts,

Vaughan advises supplementing with iodine (up to 12.5 mg per day via kelp, seaweed or oral tablets) or applying an iodine solution to the breasts at night. A key constituent of thyroid hormones, iodine helps the liver convert unfriendly forms of estrogen into friendlier forms and flush toxins out of lymph nodes in the breast. Also, steer clear of chocolate and coffee, because caffeine is believed to interact with enzymes in the breast, exaggerating pain and lumpiness. Also consider ditching the bra, says Vaughan. Brassieres can constrict lymph nodes and hinder blood circulation in breasts, locking toxins in and aggravating fibrocystic symptoms. The link between bras and breast cancer risk remains hotly debated, with one 2014 U.S. National Cancer Institute study of 1,400 women concluding unequivocally that, “There’s no evidence that wearing a bra increases a woman’s risk of breast cancer,” while smaller studies from the United States, China, Venezuela, Scotland and Africa suggest a link. Vaughan, the founder of BraFree.org, says the science is compelling enough that she has chosen to keep her own bra use to a minimum and advises her patients to do the same.

“Obviously, there are certain sports where you should wear a sports bra and there are certain dresses that only look right with a bra,” says Vaughan. At a minimum, avoid wearing a bra to bed and steer clear of underwires and overly tight bras that leave red marks. “This is not about guilt-tripping women into never wearing a bra. It’s about wearing a bra less.”

Beautiful Breasts Naturally

Too small or too big, lopsided or riddled with stretch marks… it seems almost every woman has a complaint about the appearance of her breasts. That’s a problem, says Northrup, because, “Healthy breasts are breasts that are loved. We have to stop beating them up.” According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the number of women getting breast implants for cosmetic reasons ballooned from 212,500 in 2000 to 286,254 in 2014. Physicians—including Northrup— claim that modern implants don’t, in the majority of cases, promote disease like older silicone implants did. Yet even plastic surgeons warn that having implants should be fully thought out,

and at some point they’ll probably have to come out. “They are manmade devices, and are not intended to be lifelong. At some point, you will probably have to have further surgery,” says Dr. Anureet Bajaj, an Oklahoma City plastic surgeon. Bajaj notes that implants can rupture, forming scar tissue and lending irregular shape to the breast. Often, as a woman ages and her body changes, the larger breasts she chose in her 20s no longer look right and may cause back and shoulder pain. In some cases, implants can also lead to loss of nipple sensitivity. For these and other reasons, 23,774 women—including actress Melissa Gilbert and model Victoria Beckham—had their implants removed in 2014, often following up with a breast lift (using their own tissue) to restore their shape. Vaughan sees breast implant removal as a wise and courageous choice to restore optimal breast health. Better yet, don’t get implants in the first place. “There are a lot of other things you can do to improve the appearance of your breasts,” she advises. Vaughan recommends breastperking exercises like dumbbell bench

natural awakenings

May 2015

“In all these ways, your breasts are deeply connected to your femininity, compassion and sensuality” presses and flys that tone the pectoral muscles beneath the breasts, making them more resilient and look larger. To prevent or reverse sagging, she again urges women to go bra-free. “We have ligaments in the upper outer quadrant of our breasts called Cooper’s ligaments, and they’re responsible for holding our breasts up. Just like your muscles atrophy when you put your arm in a sling, your Cooper’s ligaments atrophy if you wear a bra all the time.” In one unpublished, yet highly publicized 2013 study, French Exercise Physiologist Jean-Denis Rouillon measured the busts of 330 women ages 18 to 35 over a period of 15 years and found those that regularly wore a bra had droopier breasts with lower nipples than those that didn’t. In another, smaller, Japanese study, researchers found that when women stopped wearing a bra for three months, their breasts perked up. Those worried about stretch marks also have options. They can be a sign of inadequate copper, which promotes collagen integrity and helps skin stretch without injury, says Steelsmith. If rapid weight gain is occurring due to adolescence, pregnancy or for other reasons, try taking copper supplements or applying a topical copper spray on the breasts. Remember to massage your breasts daily, not only as a “search and destroy mission” for early detection of cancerous lumps, says Northrup, but as a way to get waste products flowing out and loving energy flowing in. “It concerns me that women feel pressured to think of their breasts as two potentially pre-malignant lesions sitting on their chests,” Northrup says. “These are organs of nourishment and pleasure for both ourselves and others. We need to remember that, too.” Lisa Marshall is a freelance health writer in Boulder, CO. Connect at LisaAnnMarshall.com. 34

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

Bust Musts for Cancer Prevention by Lisa Marshall

ccording to the American Cancer Society, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer, and nearly 40,000 will die annually of the disease. But at least 38 percent of those diagnoses could be prevented via diet and lifestyle changes, affirms the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR). “For decades, the dominant public message about breast cancer has been about early detection,” says Medical Doctor Robert Pendergrast, an associate professor at the Medical College of Georgia, in Augusta, and author of Breast Cancer: Reduce Your Risk with Foods You Love. “Screening is important, but not nearly enough attention is being paid to prevention.” Here’s what we can do to keep cancer at bay or from recurring. Eat more veggies: Cruciferous vegetables, like broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts, are loaded with indole-3-carbinol, or I3C, a potent anticancer compound that helps break down excess estrogen and convert it into a more friendly, or benign form, says Steelsmith. One study in Alternative Medicine Review found that women that ate high amounts of cruciferous vegetables were 30 percent less likely to develop breast cancer over 30 years. I3C can also be taken as a supplement (300 milligrams [mg] per day). Eat more fiber, especially flax: Fiber, via whole grains, fruits and vegetables, helps flush out toxins including unfriendly estrogen. Flax contains cancer-fighting compounds called lignans, which block the effects of excess or unfriendly estrogen on cells. Drink less alcohol: Alcohol boosts estrogen levels in women and is broken down in the liver to acetaldehyde, a known toxin that causes cancer in laboratory animals, notes Naturopath

www.nasrq.com

Laurie Steelsmith. According to the AICR, a woman that has five drinks per week boosts her risk by 5 percent. Two or more drinks per day boosts such risk by more than 40 percent. Skip the barbecue: Charring meat produces carcinogenic compounds called heterocyclic amines. A study of 42,000 women, published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, found that those that routinely ate welldone hamburger, beef or bacon had four times the risk of those that opted for medium or medium-rare. Keep weight in check: Excessive estrogen, which lives in fat cells, fuels cancer risk. According to the AICR, a woman with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 (obese) has a 13 percent higher risk of cancer than a woman with a BMI of 25 (slightly overweight). Spice up life: Curcumin from the turmeric plant has been shown in many studies to have potent immune-boosting and anticancer properties, reactivating sleeping tumor-suppressor genes that can kill cancer cells. De-stress: Growing evidence that includes studies from Ohio State University suggest that stress can boost the risk of breast cancer and recurrence, plus heighten its aggressiveness by altering hormones and impairing immunity. One study from Finland’s University of Helsinki followed 10,808 Finnish women for 15 years and found as much as double the rate of breast cancer among those that had experienced a divorce or death of a spouse or family member. Drink green tea: It’s loaded with epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a potent antioxidant believed to suppress new blood vessel growth in tumors and keep cancerous cells from invading healthy tissue.

Triumph Over The ‘Big C’ by Lisa Marshall

hen Sandy Messonnier was diagnosed with breast cancer, she faced scary treatment decisions as doctors pressured her to consider all means available. “I was more afraid of the treatment than the cancer itself,” says Messonnier, 52, of Plano, Texas. “I kept feeling like I was being lumped into one big category of all women that got breast cancer, rather than treated as an individual.” With the help of her holistic veterinarian husband Shawn Messonnier, Sandy took a more measured approach, blending conventional and complementary medicine in an individualized protocol the couple describes in their book, Breast Choices for the Best Chances: Your Breasts, Your Life, and How You Can Win the Battle! After careful consideration, Sandy opted for two lumpectomies three weeks

apart, instead of a mastectomy, to remove the small tumor. The second one was done to clear up a few remaining cells indicated by a biopsy. Meanwhile, she took supplements including green tea and coriolus mushrooms to impede the spread of the cancer cells. Several tests helped determine if she needed chemotherapy and the optimum dose for some of her supplements. The results prompted her to decline chemotherapy and opt for a brief stint of radiation while taking the supplements quercetin and curcumin to help combat the fatigue and other side effects. Afterward, she cleansed her body with homeopathic mistletoe, herbal milk thistle and other detoxifying supplements. Then she began the work of keeping cancer at bay. “A lot of doctors never talk to you about what you are going to do after the poisoning [chemo], the burning and

surgery,” she says. “Rather than taking a cancer-fighting drug, I chose to be more mindful of what I do with my body.” Her regimen called for committing to keeping up with the healthy diet, plus regular walks, yoga and Pilates that she believes helped keep the cancer relatively mild to begin with. But she also made some life changes to address the one thing she believes may have driven the outbreak in the first place—stress. She made peace with her mother, which reduced a lot of stress, began to cultivate a spiritual life and now takes time to meditate or walk when she feels even lightly stressed. She also vowed to keep the fear of recurrence from overwhelming her. “Many women never stop worrying about it,” she observes. “That is toxic energy you are putting back into your body.” As of this October, Messonnier will be five years cancer-free. Her advice for women newly diagnosed with breast cancer: “Chemotherapy, radiation and mastectomy are not among the right choices for all women. There are other options, depending on the type of cancer. Don’t be so fearful that you make hasty decisions you don’t need to make.”

There Is Another Choice For Breast Exams Breast Thermography (DITI) is recommended for ALL women...

• DITI is a non-invasive and non-radiation screening test to monitor breast health • DITI is not limited by breast implants or breast density • DITI can evaluate fibrocystic breast condition • DITI is safe for pregnant women • DITI can continue monitoring mastectomy sites • DITI is valuable in monitoring hormone replacement therapy

RITA RIMMER

CERTIFIED CLINICAL THERMOGRAPHER

HEALTH IMAGING

2750 Bahia Vista Street Suite 109, Sarasota, FL Korman Relief & Wellness Center, Port Charlotte, FL

941-330-9318

Abnormal Breast

Normal Breast

Providing Medical Thermography on the West Coast since the year 2000!

DITI IS AN FDA APPROVED TECHNOLOGY. DITI MAY NOT BE COVERED BY YOUR INSURANCE PLAN. ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED.

natural awakenings

May 2015

healingways

Giving Birth Naturally Conscious Choices Lead to Less Intervention by Meredith Montgomery

The Yoga of Pregnancy Week by Week: Connect With Your Unborn Child through Mind, Body and Breath by Mel Campbell Natural Hospital Birth: The Best of Both Worlds by Cynthia Gabriel Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth by Ina May Gaskin Spiritual Midwifery by Ina May Gaskin

abor and delivery tic births took place in Most births is a natural process hospitals, and by 1960 it should be viewed rose to 97 percent. Curthat can be enjoyed. “It’s not something as a natural life rently, midwives attend to be afraid of,” says less than 8 percent of process instead births here, and fewer Mel Campbell, author of The Yoga of Pregnancy. than 1 percent occur of a potential “It’s a wonderful and outside a hospital. beautiful experience. We medical emergency. Natural labor and need to remember that delivery in a hospital is ~Abby Epstein, The possible, but, “It’s hard the body is designed for Business of Being Born to have an unmedicated giving birth.” Natural childbirth birth in many hospitals if uses few or no artificial medical interyou don’t know your rights, understand ventions such as drugs, continuous your physiology and have a doula by fetal monitoring, forceps delivery or your side helping you avoid unnecesepisiotomies (cuts to enlarge the vaginal sary interventions,” says Ina May Gasopening). According to the U.S. Centers kin, a pioneering midwife and author for Disease Control (CDC), 32.7 percent of Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth. Key of deliveries were by Cesarean section factors to discuss include fetal monitorin 2013—most performed in situations ing, intravenous tubes and the option to where a vaginal birth would have posed eat or drink during labor. a relatively low risk to the health of mother and child. Entirely natural child- Benefits of Home Births birth is now rare here compared with Women choose home births and other countries, but that wasn’t always homey birthing centers because they the case. labor there more comfortably, feel more In 1900, 95 percent of all U.S. in control of the process and can more births took place in the home; when easily avoid interventions. Many moms more moved to hospitals here in the seek out a midwife’s services because early 20th century, midwives still they don’t want to repeat the conventypically handled the delivery in other tional hospital experience that accomcountries, sometimes without a doctor panied their first baby’s arrival. present. In America, obstetrics became When actress Ricki Lake gave a profession and a doctor-attended birth birth to her second child in her home in a hospital was promoted as a safer bathtub with the assistance of a midalternative. By 1938, half of domeswife, she felt empowered by doing it 36

Conscious Childbirth Resources

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

Your Best Birth by Ricki Lake and Abby Epstein The Business of Being Born a film by Ricki Lake and Abby Epstein Mothering Magazine’s Having a Baby, Naturally by Peggy O’Mara on her own terms. “Giving birth wasn’t an illness, something that needed to be numbed. It was something to be experienced,” she says. When women let their bodies naturally lead, labor can last as little as 20 minutes or as long as two weeks, and the spectrum of pain intensity is equally broad. A healthy prenatal lifestyle that prepares a mom-to-be for a natural physical, emotional and spiritual experience of childbirth is highly beneficial.

Compassionate Self-Care

“Pregnancy’s not the time to overexert yourself; let go of the temptation to overachieve and instead practice breathing and mindfulness,” advises Campbell. “If you’re experiencing morning sickness, try to embrace it and how it serves you. By doing so, you’ll be more in tune with your body. These lessons are gifts you can take with you into labor.” She reminds women that the baby is always getting nourishment from all

that mom eats and breathes in, and also feeds off of her feelings and emotions. “The more we can feel at peace with ourselves and incorporate the baby into our being, the more we feel a connection and union,” she says. “It’s vital that you let your body’s innate wisdom be your guide and respect any cues it may give.” Campbell guides expectant mothers through a yoga practice that embraces the changes occurring each trimester. For example, a more physical practice in the second trimester utilizes the surge of energy to build stamina and strength, while opening the heart, hips and pelvis. Complementary relaxation techniques for labor include breathing practices, visualization, meditation and massage. When a mother isn’t connected to monitors and tubes, she’s free to experiment with positions and props such as balls, bars and pillows, plus a warm shower or bath. If a hospital birth is planned, Gaskin notes that labor often slows once a woman leaves the comfort of home, and recommends laboring at home as long as possible. There is no way to predict the course of labor and delivery when women let nature take the lead. Campbell, a mother of three, says, “I tried to focus on the intention of what I wanted for my birthing experience, while also surrendering expectations, knowing that I would have whatever type of birth I was supposed to have.” She adds, “The breath is the most important thing—it keeps us in the moment, helps us to relax and supports us through labor.” While the home birth option is important to America’s new generation of trailblazing women, it’s also significant on a macro level. Gaskin explains, “It’s hard for staff to change routine practices in hospitals but home births make innovation possible.” Home births demonstrated that women don’t require routine episiotomies and have shown how maternal mobility and position changes can help labor progress and free badly stuck babies (earlier methods often injured mother and child). Gaskin has found, “Wherever and however you decide to give birth, your experience will impact your emotions, mind, body and spirit for the rest of your life. No one should have a home birth who doesn’t want one, but it must be one of the choices.” Meredith Montgomery publishes Natural Awakenings of Mobile/Baldwin, AL (HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com). natural awakenings

May 2015

A Mother’s Guide to Natural Childbirth by Meredith Montgomery

etermining the best birth setting for a mother necessitates sound planning. If an unmedicated birth is a goal, these insights may help in making decisions. Home birth takes place in the comfort of home, typically with the assistance of a midwife, and is suitable for a healthy woman with a low-risk pregnancy. She is able to wear her own clothing and eat as she pleases. Because monitoring of mother and baby is done intermittently, she is free to move around. Confirm the midwife’s training and

experience; with ask how many home births she’s attended and which obstetricians she consults. Discuss the signs and symptoms that might necessitate a move to the hospital and how quickly it can be done. While a midwife’s fee is often far less than the cost of a hospital birth, not all insurance companies cover home births. A birth center provides personalized, family-centered care in a homelike environment for healthy women. Practitioners follow principles of

Crystal Cave

problem prevention, sensitivity, safety, appropriate medical intervention and cost-effectiveness. A midwife typically delivers the baby, but the collaborative practice team also includes obstetricians, pediatricians and other specialists. Mothers experience personal freedoms similar to a home birth, and tubs for water births are usually available, plus other birthing props such as squatting bars, stools and balls. The center should be accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Birth Centers. Inquire what the protocol for care will be if complications arise, learn what the center’s charges for care cover and confirm if the family’s insurance policy will pay for the services provided. A hospital generally has access to the latest medical technology, making it a preferred option for medium-to-highrisk pregnancies. With proper preparations, an unmedicated birth is possible in this traditional setting. Investigate their rates of Cesarean births and episiotomies and the determining parameters. To allow for an active labor, request intermittent fetal monitoring, avoid intravenous fluids and ask about the availability of birthing props. Become familiar with hospital policies, such as who can be in the delivery room and whether the baby will stay with mom after the birth. If a nurse midwife is not on staff, consider hiring a doula to assist in preparing for and carrying out the family’s birth plan.

The

Happy Mother’s Day! Crystals make great gifts for Mom! 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! 38

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

YOGA THERAPY Restore, Release, Rejuvenate JUNE 3-14, 2015 TUITION: $1,500

PLUS $39 PER DAY ROOM AND BOARD

Salt Springs, Florida • www.AmritYoga.org call (352) 685-3001 or email: admissions@amrityoga.org

Ne Sh w op W , Re Ou eb de r Sto sign re ed

Powerful, Natural Pain Relief!

with Natural Awakenings’ Stops Pain Plus • Arthritis Pain • Stiff Joints • Cramps • Headaches • Knee, Neck & Back Pain • Inflammation & Swelling • Tired Sore Muscles

Its natural ingredients include:

4-oz spray $19.99 — 8-oz spray $34.99 plus $5 shipping Order online today at

ShopNaturalAwakenings.com or call: 888-822-0246

Sarasota’s Premier Swim SCHOOL! For ages 6 months and up!

FREE SWIM EVALUATIONS!!

Smallest class size in the area No tears method, helps with fear Safety and drowning prevention program Gentle, fun, child-paced classes in our hydrogen peroxide pool!

Y MIN OD

• Certified Emu Oil • Aloe Vera • Herbs • Glucosamine & Condroitin • Vitamins/Antioxidants • Botanical Extracts • MSM Stops Pain Plus also helps to stimulate energy, detoxify and promote a healthier quality of life.

Body-Mind Aquatics

Enjoy safe and effective relief from:

AQUATICS SWIM SCHOOL

In Our Pool or Yours! Concierge Service Reserve Your Spot Today!

Time slots are filling FAST for our Spring and Summer lessons!

(941) 981-1200

www.BodyMindAquatics.com

natural awakenings

May 2015

Keep it fun, so that your kids will try new things like vegetables. Remember, it takes 12 times before a baby actually prefers a new food, so don’t give up!

healthykids

~Veronika Van de Geer Buckley, Maine mother

KIDS ¤ VEGGIES How to Instill Healthy Lifelong Habits by Clancy Cash Harrison

Starting at conception, the early years of a child’s life are a perfect window of opportunity to establish a foundation of healthy eating.

ant a child to love veggies? Here are simple tips parents can practice in the first three years to establish lifelong good eating habits. Start early. We all know that eating healthy during pregnancy will help a baby grow, but many may not realize that an infant can taste flavors in utero and through breast milk. Eating a variety of fresh produce during pregnancy and breastfeeding helps shape a healthy diet later in life. Treat weaning as a time for the infant to explore the texture, taste and aroma of an array of foods. After six months of exclusive breastfeeding, food can be introduced, although breast milk is still the primary source of nutrients. Small, repeated exposures to many foods during this stage will help minimize refusals to try or accept foods in the toddler years. 40

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

Children’s foods should be exploding with nutrients. Offering a variety of organic produce ensures optimal nutrition and decreases chemical exposure. Research reported by the Harvard Medical School and the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, among others, shows that richly colored foods help build dense bones, powerful brains and tough immunity. Good candidates include butternut squash, sweet potatoes, leafy greens, carrots, broccoli, berries and citrus. Also go for those naturally high in iron, such as peas, leafy greens, apricots, raisins and legumes. Avoid anything high in sugar and other sweeteners, hydrogenated oils, artificial colorings and other harmful additives. Another important yet often overlooked foundation of healthy eating is encouraging a child to self-regulate his

www.nasrq.com

or her calorie intake. Self-regulation starts on the first day of breastfeeding and is carried through adulthood. Respecting a child’s decision to end a meal allows them to control their own food intake. Common signals infants use to end a meal include turning their head away, arching back, throwing food on the floor and showing an interest in other activities. To encourage self-regulation, always serve meals and healthy snacks on a schedule and allow the child to feed himself when possible. As early as 7 months of age, most healthy infants are developmentally ready to do this, which should optimize nutrient consumption, increase participation in family meals and contribute to a less stressful mealtime. Appropriate foods for self-feeding should easily melt in an infant’s mouth and be a safe size, such as soft fruits and cooked vegetables. To prevent choking, avoid round, hard and sticky foods such as whole grapes, peanuts, popcorn and nut or seed butters. Don’t be afraid to add mild herbs and spices to a child’s food. An easy way to teach healthy flavor preferences, develop taste buds and reduce pickiness when they’re older is to expose children to many foods, textures and aromas. A dash of cumin in smashed avocado or freshly chopped mint mixed with diced strawberries introduces new perspective on a favorite food. Food refusal is inevitable, normal behavior. Children will love a food one day and hate it the next. Rethinking the definition of variety empowers parents to reintroduce a not-so-favorite food many times. If children don’t like the way an item feels or looks, they may not taste it. The refusal of a carrot doesn’t necessarily doom carrots. They can be coined, minced, mashed, puréed and

It’s important to give the child the same food that the family eats, but in smaller servings. This allows the child to watch others eat and enjoy the same meal. ~Maria Myers Maiden, North Carolina mother diced to change the texture, plus they can be served cold, at room temperature or tepid. A child’s early adventurous eating increases the willingness to experiment with a wider range of less familiar foods as a young adult in a multicultural foodscape. Kids are not born reciting an alphabet; it takes time and practice to read and learn a new language. Similarly, it requires time and patient practice to establish a healthy foundation for eating. Have faith in the family’s ability to make eating together enjoyable for everyone. Clancy Cash Harrison is a mother of two, pediatric feeding therapist, registered dietitian and author of Feeding Baby: Simple Approaches to Raising a Healthy Baby and Creating a Lifetime of Nutritious Eating. Connect at FieldsOfFlavor.com.

Kid Feeding Tips by Clancy Cash Harrison n Holding off on fruits as a first food to prevent development of a sweet tooth is a myth. A sweet taste preference is engrained in an infant’s DNA (Annual Review of Nutrition; Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care). n Restricting foods high in sugar and fat increases a child’s preference for them. Then, when sweets are made available, the child feels compelled to overeat them (Appetite; The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition; Proceedings of the Nutrition Society). n Most children will refuse a new food and by age 2, become afraid of anything new. Therefore, introduce a large variety of foods early in life (Appetite; International Journal of Obesity). n Infants and children can regulate calorie needs based on current growth patterns and age. Some days an infant will eat large amounts of food, on others very little. n Pressuring a child to eat is a behavior associated with unhealthy eating habits. Not only does it set them up for long-term food aversions, it teaches them to distrust their internal feelings of hunger and fullness, often leading to a habit of overeating.

Counteract Slow Sales Advertise in Natural Awakenings’

Safe & Natural Nail & Skin Care We know you’ll love Epiphany, so we invite you to the Sanctuary, for a $50 Introductory Facial Treatment or $40 Natural Pedicure Treatment.

Balanced Man June Issue To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

Now offering Thai Massage and Ayurveda!

The Excellence You Deserve!

Unique Sanitary Perfection for your Protection!

941-400-6337 | 665 South Orange Ave #2, Sarasota (Located Near Historic Burns Court)

LIFE IS A BALANCING ACT

natashacrow.com

941-564-0885 natural awakenings

May 2015

If You Learn from

Natural Awakenings,

Share the Knowledge

Easy Kid-Pleasing Recipes T

hese recipes are designed to build dense bones, powerful brains and tough immunity by strategically pairing foods to increase the absorption of vital nutrients. Even toddlers love to use the creamy recipes as dips for their favorite vegetable sticks. To encourage self-feeding with a thinner-texture recipe, place food on a spoon and let the infant lean into it or pull the spoon to their mouth.

Bake sweet potato until its center is soft. Remove flesh from peel. Smashing with a fork, mix in cinnamon. Add breast milk to thin as needed.

Dilled Peas

/4 tsp organic coconut oil 1 Tbsp organic peas 1 pinch fresh chopped organic dill 1

In a cast iron skillet, heat coconut oil over medium heat. Add peas and cook for 5 minutes, constantly stirring. Toss with dill before serving.

Sweet and Chunky Avocado

½ ripe organic avocado, mashed with a fork ½ ripe organic banana Pinch of organic cinnamon (optional) Mix ingredients well until smooth and creamy. Add breast milk to thin as needed. For more texture, dice the banana and gently mix into mashed avocado.

Banana and Coconut Ice Cream

facebook.com/

NaturalAwakeningsSarasotaManatee

Basil and Banana

1 tsp finely chopped fresh organic basil ½ diced organic banana

pintrest.com/nasrq publisher@nasrq.com

In a blender, mix all ingredients until smooth. Add breast milk to thin as needed.

Cinnamon Smashed Sweet Potatoes

2 Tbsp smashed organic sweet potato Dash organic cinnamon 42

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

8 raw, soaked almonds 4 large organic strawberries, diced 1 tsp fresh chopped organic herbs (basil, cilantro or mint) Pulse almonds in a blender until finely chopped. Add strawberries and herb of choice. Mix until well blended.

JOIN US ON:

twitter.com/nasrq

Strawberry and Almond Purée

www.nasrq.com

4 frozen organic bananas (without peels) ½ cup unsweetened organic coconut milk 1 tsp organic vanilla extract

In a blender, mix all ingredients until smooth. Top with fresh organic berries. Recipes and photos courtesy of Clancy Cash Harrison from Feeding Baby: Simple Approaches to Raising a Healthy Baby and Creating a Lifetime of Nutritious Eating.

wisewords

Laura Prepon’s Journey to Health Home Cooking, Organics and Massage Are Key by Gerry Strauss

How do you manage to consistently eat local organic food instead of fast food?

My mother was a gourmet chef and an advocate of organic food, so we always had amazing meals growing up. Eating organic produce that’s in season locally seems to help me assimilate nutrition more readily. Whenever I can, I also try to tap into biodynamic agriculture, which takes an even broader holistic approach to food production and nutrition. I view GMOs [genetically modified foods] as toxic to the system. As a self-taught chef, I like to cook at least 80 percent of my food at home

and bring meals to work so I don’t stress about food during the day. It feels good to get people together in the kitchen and I’ve taught friends how to cook healthy foods in simple ways, so they now bring their own meals with them to work. It’s all about preparation, so that you’re not just grabbing something on the run. Knowing what’s going into the food we’re eating is important. photo by Michael Simon

rom That ‘70s Show to Orange is the New Black, actress Laura Prepon has long been considered by TV audiences to be a welcome image of health. Yet Prepon’s recent discovery that she’d been falling short in nourishing her body as effectively as possible has set in motion a complete redirection of lifestyle, from her diet to fitness routine. Now working on a book about clean living and eating due out next year, Prepon has rededicated herself to educating us just as much as she’s entertained us through the years.

Why do you include a lot of soup in your diet? With all of the GMO food sprayed with chemicals in the typical American diet and the other environmental toxins everyone has to deal with, our gut flora, intestines and bodies in general are becoming compromised. Ten years ago, few had even heard of gluten allergies unless you had celiac disease, which was rare even then. Now, everywhere you go, there’s a gluten-free option. I love eating soup because the healthful ingredients I use are broken down completely, so the body can immediately assimilate needed micronutrients, which help heal us from the inside out. I’m talking about homemade broth from grass-fed beef bones,

so you get the marrow; I’m partial to knuckle bones. I always have soup broth in my refrigerator.

What’s key to your ability to naturally stay healthy and fit in the midst of an intense schedule of work and travel? I love modalities like acupuncture, massage … all of that. I fully believe in keeping energy flowing to benefit the functioning of all our organs. As school kids, we learn about the circulatory system and central nervous system, but who knows much about the lymphatic system? It’s extremely important, and people are starting to get the idea. Activities like yoga, swimming and bouncing on the trampoline can help.

Do you see society’s penchant for medicating as a way to avoid listening to and addressing our body’s real needs? I do. That’s why I study Eastern medicine, because I feel that Western medicine treats problems and Eastern medicine prevents problems from happening. I grew up in a family of doctors and “full-on” Western medicine and respect the medical community. Unfortunately, these days, most people are continually medicated and they’re not getting better. As a society, we tend to just take a drug to handle a symptom instead of addressing the actual cause of the problem.

As a celebrity, do you see yourself as a conduit to facilitate a shift away from unnatural lifestyles? Yes. The reason I decided to write a book was because I’ve been struggling with a bunch of different ailments in secret for a long time. When I began working with my integrated health coach, Elizabeth Troy, I started to heal for the first time in all the years of reading books on health, diet and fitness, seeing doctors, taking loads of pills and spending crazy amounts of money on all of these activities. I want to help people struggling to regain their health to get answers. Gerry Strauss is a freelance writer in Hamilton, NJ. Connect at GerryStrauss@aol.com. natural awakenings

May 2015

WE FOCUS ON

NATURAL

BEAUTY PRODUCTS Give your Mom the gift of Bliss this Mother’s Day! Gift Certificates Available

consciouseating

EATING SKINNY Why Vegans and Vegetarians are Naturally Trim by Judith Fertig

W Come Find Your Bliss 941-923-1287

5531 Palmer Crossing Cir, Sarasota, FL 34233 blisssalonsrq.com

Meet Your Soul Mate

on NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com

Join for FREE! Visit NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com 44

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

e read the labels touting low sugar, carbs, fats and calories. We try this and that diet, hoping the pounds will melt away. Yet more than a third of U.S. adults, nearly 80 million of us, remain overweight or obese, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in Atlanta. The problem might be that we’re getting the wrong advice. While most weight-loss plans focus on reducing calories, recent research shows that vegan and vegetarian dietary patterns can result in more weight loss than those that include meat, without even emphasizing caloric restriction. Scientists at the University of South Carolina, in Columbia, point to their study, How Plant-Based Do We Need to Be to Achieve Weight Loss? Study participants were divided into five groups, according to eating style, from vegan to flexitarian to carnivore, and monitored for an eight-week period. At the end of the evaluation, those that followed an entirely plantbased diet achieved the greatest weight loss. Study leader Gabrielle Turner-McGrievy, Ph.D., notes, “Many researchers agree that vegan eating styles are tied to lower BMI [body mass index], lower prevalence of Type 2 diabetes and less weight gain with age.” Can it really be that simple… eat more plants and lose weight? “Yes,” says clean food coach Jeannette Bessinger, of Newport, Rhode Island. “Most people could benefit from eating more vegetables.” Co-author of Natural Solutions for Digestive Health with Naturopath

www.nasrq.com

Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants. ~Michael Pollan Jillian Sarno Teta, Bessinger advises her clients to start by eating more green, leafy vegetables. Vegetables contribute to weight control in several ways, says Bessinger. They fill us up and help calm cravings. Plus, when plants become the bulk of what we eat, we naturally consume fewer high-fat, high-calorie foods. For an easy appetite-control strategy, Bessinger suggests having a cup of vegetable soup about 10 minutes before a meal. “It shuts off your appetite valve and you’ll eat noticeably less,” she says, while still feeling full. She also recommends slowing down and being mindful when we eat. Vegetables help us do that. “It takes two-and-a-half minutes to eat a piece of cheesecake, but much more time to eat a big salad,” she says. For New York City-based Victoria Moran, author of Main Street Vegan and The Good Karma Diet, losing weight and maintaining a healthy lifestyle became easier once she adopted a vegan diet. “I’ve been through life and loss and ages 40 and 50, and my weight stays steady, some 60 pounds less than it once was,” she says. “Every year

when I put away my winter clothes and get out my summer clothes, they fit.” Her eating strategy is easy, too. “Make your plate look like a Christmas tree,” says Moran, “mostly green with splashes of other bright colors from vegetables and fruits.” She eats green veggies in several ways. She makes her own green juices—one favorite combines celery, kale, apple and lemon juice. She also adds tender greens like romaine or spinach to smoothies that might also contain fruit and citrus juice. She steams greens with plenty of garlic and makes big salads. “I bought my salad bowl at a restaurant supply house,” Moran exclaims. Salads get an oomph factor with a selection of avocado, pumpkin or hemp seeds, mushrooms, chickpeas or red beans, artichoke hearts, chunks of steamed yam and sautéed tofu or tempeh. Moran cites benefits of more energy to do more physical activity and “feeling really good” as additional outcomes of her dietary shift. Sophie Uliano, a Los Angelesbased natural beauty expert and author of the new Gorgeous for Good, agrees, believing that eating a vegan diet 80

Nothing can be delicious when you are holding your breath. For something to be delicious, you have to be present to savor it; and presence is in attention and in the flow of breath. It begins in the mouth, and then it connects our heads to our bodies through our throats and into our lungs and tummies, a beautiful, connective cord of air.

vegan, while also eliminating gluten, alcohol, caffeine and refined grains. The pair lost weight, gained energy and improved their skin tone. “Transformation comes in a series of small, consistent decisions over time,” concludes Bessinger, eating salad instead of cheeseburgers and vegetables instead of fries. For natural weight management, “Make strategic, long-term changes in stages that you can actually sustain over time.” Judith Fertig blogs at AlfrescoFood AndLifestyle.blogspot.com from Overland Park, KS.

~Anne Lamott percent of the time can pay dividends in weight loss, well-being, energy and beauty. “Most of the time, eat clean and healthy,” she recommends. “It’s not a diet. It’s a ‘live-it’, a way of life.” Uliano recently asked two colleagues on the Hallmark Channel’s Home & Family show to try eating

Positive anything is better than negative nothing. ~Elbert Hubbard

40+ INGREDIENTS NOT ALLOWED

retailer to establish household cleaning product standards WHOLE FOODS MARKE T IP, L .P.

look for the eco-scale logo ®

wholefoodsmarket.com/unacceptable-ingredients COMING SOON ALTAMONTE SPRINGS • DESTIN • WINTER PARK NORTH

natural awakenings

May 2015

greenliving

Upcycled Décor

Finders Keepers

Old and Oh-So-Stylish

by Avery Mack

Search the words recycled, repurposed and upcycled on Pinterest, Etsy or any search engine to picture results ranked from simple-to-do to how-in-the-world astonishment. Light fixtures can be made from almost anything. Cookie jars and books turn into lamps, wine bottles become a chandelier—go homespun or industrial, follow a theme or incorporate a hobby. Freshen lamp shades using old sewing patterns, vintage fabrics

Seating

Chairs are plentiful in garage and whole-house sales, flea markets and on Craigslist. Sometimes all that’s needed is a coat of paint and fun fabric. New cushions, bought or made, are

Certified Green Salon FREE HAIR CUT WITH PURCHASE OF COLOR AND BLOWDRY

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

photo courtesy of Jessica-Allyn.com

Lighting

or ribbon applied as découpage. A coat of paint transforms tacky, tarnished brass chandeliers into elegant décor. At a flea market, look for boxes of stainless forks, knives and spoons—avoid costly sterling silver that can tarnish. A drill, frame, wiring and bulb later, we can have an intriguing hanging light or lamp. Combining a chafing dish, silverware and assorted tea cups in a chandelier creates artful lighting. photo courtesy of Lit for a Queen/Etsy

ld furniture used to go to college dorms and student apartments. At graduation, it was moved to the curb to be picked up by incoming students or the trash man. Now, with the influx of TV shows like Flea Market Flip and American Pickers, the DIY Network, HGTV and complementary books and magazines, vintage and mid-century recyclables barely touch the curb before being reinvented. Lighting, storage and seating provide ample opportunities for one-of-a-kind creations of imagination, vision and innovation.

n Take cash to garage sales. Flea markets are more apt to take credit cards. Discounts may by possible with cash, which saves the seller the transaction fee. n Negotiate. It’s expected and half the fun. But don’t offer an offensively low price. Ask, “What is the best you can do on this?” Then, making a slightly lower counteroffer is often acceptable. n Although the general theory of, “Buy it when you see it,” is sound advice, be prepared to walk away. n Set a budget and stick to it, especially at an auction. Smartphones can help research what price to offer. n Watch for posted signs around town; search “garage sale finder” or “flea market finder” (there’s an iTunes app for that). Locate auction and estate sales the same way, as well as in a local newspaper. Churches and organizations like the Veterans Administration, Elks Lodge, Lions Club and Scouts often organize sales as fundraisers. n Shop early for the best selection. Shop late for the lowest prices. easy upgrades. Recovering a padded seat only requires the right amount of fabric and a sturdy staple gun. Mismatched chairs, painted a neutral color and redone with the same fabric, turn a mishmash of styles into a coordinated set. Chevron (zig zag) or checkerboard patterns in black and white are popular—understated, yet posh. Bright colors in a pop art style or 70s florals brighten any room and give the owner style points. Benches created from a bookcase, shortened dresser or car parts can be padded or plain and incorporate storage capacity. A child’s bench may have been a skateboard in its former life. When buying reclaimed wood, ask about its origin; factory pieces might still

photo courtesy of Restoration Alley

retain unhealthy contaminants.

Storage

Old dressers and desks are frequent throwaway finds. Often big and bulky, scratched and ugly, it’s easier to set them out for pickup than list them for sale. Paint can transform a desk that shows its age into a welcome addition to a home office. For added interest or to hide imperfections, découpage with maps, postcards, kid’s artwork, pages from beyond-repair cookbooks or old sheet music. Need a shelf above the desk? A pair of old shutters works well; cast iron brackets add flair. Matching or complementary paint colors will make the pieces look like they belong together. Broken pieces of furniture can live on if cobbled together. A coffee table’s sturdy legs and frame, an old window and a little paint combine to furnish a unique table with built-in storage. To protect fragile glass and create an even surface, top with a sheet of Plexiglass or sturdy beveled-edge glass. Look beyond what is there and imagine what it could be. Ideas are everywhere, especially with spring cleanouts, garage sales and flea markets. Expect upcycling to become an obsession, because everything will become a possibility. Connect with freelance writer Avery Mack at AveryMack@ mindspring.com.

natural awakenings

May 2015

Qigong Healing and Universal Oneness Interview with Jeff Primack, Founder of the Qi Revolution Conference by Kathy Rivera Wallace

Kathy Rivera Wallace: When I attended the Qi Revolution, my favorite posture was the “Qi Ball”. I felt like I was carrying a magnetic orb of energy. What significance does this posture have? Jeff Primack: : Our hands are like mirrors reflecting light back and forth. The Qi Ball posture is 10 times stronger if palms are aligned correctly, i.e. not having one palm more forward. Learning to align your hands/body allows you to build a higher magnetic charge, which most people get excited about. Kids are especially drawn to the Qi Ball, and a few schoolteachers that I’ve trained share it in their classrooms. Aside from feeling cool, the Qigong postures are shown to improve energy and resolve health issues. KRW: How can everyday people use Qigong to reach their full potential? 48

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

JP: More than simply collecting Qi, the Gong is a change in our discipline and character. Awakening to God/Nature’s presence in our daily lives is greatly supported by realizing we are energy, but most don’t physically experience this unity. Qi profoundly increases mind focus because it changes us on the deepest level possible—the vibrational level. War veterans love that our Qigong breathing techniques actually get you high, like a euphoric rush of energy. The 9-Breath method works so well for veterans because their traumas are at the vibrational level. Holding breath and skillfully exhaling excites the vibration of our cells and brings a healing force. This ever-present force of Qi belongs to no religion, yet is spiritual and available to all people willing to learn skillful breathing. Reaching our highest potential or enlightenment begins with

www.nasrq.com

being in charge of our own vibration and emotional state. KRW: How does food affect a person’s Qi vibration, according to your teachings? JP: Eating raw fruits and veggies gives us enzymes with lots of Qi, however it is a source of dampness in Chinese medicine. Qigong views digestion like a cauldron of water boiling over a fire. If you put too much water/raw foods in the pot all at once, it will take longer to boil. By not eating unto fullness and cooking we access more energy, and Qigong focuses on improving this “digestive fire.” Eating a high-phytochemical diet that is rich in deep-colored foods and electron- abundant antioxidants and cooking with saturated fats are suggested. I drink smoothies with organic veggies and fruits like strawberries and avocado with its big seed, however, studies indicate cooking is known to improve nutrient absorption, therefore, cooking hot meals is a big part of our program. Claudia Gabrielle, MD, is a practicing Ivy League physician who is currently suggesting components of our food healing protocols to interested patients. As a family practice doctor having seen over 70,000 patients, Dr. Claudia brings wisdom and feels it is time to change people’s health at the food level. She will be speaking at the Orlando National Event about the latest advances in ‘Chromatography,’ allowing scientists to quantify healing phy-

“Qi Revolution” comes to Orlando Convention Center, featuring guest Qigong Masters Jesse Tsao & Tom Tam. June 6th–9th Jeff Primack and 200 Qigong teachers will teach 4-days of Qigong for only $149! This is the largest Qigong event in the USA. Tickets and more info, 800-298-8970 or visit QiRevolution.com. tochemicals, thus attributing functional medicine to specific foods. KRW: Why should people interrupt their busy lives to attend the National Qigong Event at the Orlando Convention Center, from June 6 to 9? JP: It is rare when so many beautiful souls gather and practice Qigong under one roof. We are stronger in one

massive field and group energy being exponentially more powerful. We keep our conference price low because people now more than ever require this knowledge to prosper. This year we are celebrating our 10th year at the National Event and people can justify dropping what they’re doing simply to be in the amazing energy present in the ambient ballroom. Learning to eat and

do Qigong for maximum wellness are benefits you will enjoy for a long life. Interviewer Kathy Rivera Wallace is a TV talk show host who regularly interviews leading wellness experts. Jeff Primack is a Qigong teacher who studied with many Qi masters from all over the world and has taught 50,000-plus people at live Qi Revolution conferences across the U.S.A.

DO YOU KNOW WHAT THEY’RE EATING?

We Do! We make it easy to eat healthy.

• Serving Sarasota, Bradenton, & Venice • Enjoy weekly baskets of fresh organic produce • Sign up and Save $$

angela’s Pure salon & spa Ensure your own health and well-being.

Angela’s Pure Salon is an eco-friendly alternative salon that provides organic color and organic products. It gives you the opportunity to make informed choices that are safer, better, and more natural options for your hair, skin, and bodies- without sacrificing quality!

Call for your appointment today 941-351-0670

941.378.9036 • organicveggies.net

3501 N. Lockwoodridge Road, Sarasota, Fl 34234 www.angelaspuresalon.com Gift Certificates Available natural awakenings

May 2015

fitbody

Flexing Our

MUSCLES Weightlifting Makes Us Fit,

Healthy and Self-Confident by Debra Melani

omen who shy away from the traditionally male-centric weight rooms might want to reconsider. Standing their ground amid the deadlift bars and iron plates could lead to a host of unimagined benefits. Research has found that among other things, hoisting dumbbells can amp up the fat burn, ward off some common diseases and make women stronger, both inside and out.

Burn Calories When Resting

Aerobic activity can burn more calories while doing it (e.g., 14 to 16 per minute when running), but strength training prolongs the burn, even when resting afterward, according to Wayne Westcott, Ph.D., of Quincy, Massachusetts, who publishes widely on the topic in scientific journals, magazine articles and books. Women will burn fewer calories while pumping iron than when running (between eight and 10 calories a minute), but because of weightlifting’s action—traumatizing muscle tissue and forcing it to rebuild—muscle recovery requires increased expenditure of energy, and thus calories, when the person is at rest. The research shows a revvedup burn of between 5 percent and

7 percent for three full days after a workout, says Westcott, who developed the exercise science major at Quincy College and has reviewed and directed strength-training research for more than 25 years. “On average, a woman burns an extra 100 calories a day by having done 30 minutes of strength training twice a week. That’s an extra 3,000 calories a month, or nearly an extra pound of fat she can burn.” Additional “free” calorie burning comes from the after-burn effect. By initiating the anaerobic, rather than aerobic, system, weightlifting requires more energy just to return to the resting state. “So, after you finish a workout, you will burn approximately 30 percent of the amount of calories you burned during the workout in the first hour afterward as your body transitions back. It’s a bonus of resistance training.” “It’s like there’s a furnace inside you,” says Naturopathic Doctor and CrossFit instructor Holly Lucille, of West Hollywood, California. The more buff a woman becomes, the more fat she burns. “It can help minimize that natural effect of slowed metabolism as you age and control body weight,” she notes. To maximize the burn, eat a healthy combined protein/carb snack within an

available late evenings and weekends

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

hour of the workout, advises Jen Hoehl, a personal trainer in New York City, who says, “Adding amino acids helps the muscles rebuild more efficiently.” Westcott agrees, adding that 90 percent of studies he’s reviewed concur that about 25 extra grams of protein such as a Greek yogurt, more for heavier men, just before or after a workout, enhances fat loss, bone strength and lean muscle gain.

Don’t Fear ‘Hulk’ Bulk

Experts agree that it’s impossible for women to look like the Hulk character of comic book fame. “They don’t have enough anabolic hormones, such as testosterone,” Westcott explains. “Our team has written 26 books on strength training, with not one title exclusively for women. The muscles are exactly the same for both genders, so the same training works, but women will just get toned, not bulky.” “I train a lot of tiny girls that deadlift 225,” Hoehl says. One tip: Don’t overeat, a mistake many women make when starting out. “Often, people will be hungrier, and they lose track of what they eat or think, ‘Now I can reward myself,’” Lucille explains. “You have to figure out what your new normal is. Eat lean, clean protein.” All three experts agree that braving the free-weight area boosts success at toning and trimming the whole body. “If you use free weights, you use your core and more muscle groups to help stabilize both the weight and your body, which is often standing,” Hoehl explains, versus machines that are often worked while sitting, and generally exercise only one targeted muscle group at a time.

Recover Muscle

Weightlifters also slow Mother Nature’s habit of stealing muscle during aging. “Women lose an average of five pounds of muscle per decade after age 30 until

menopause, when the rate increases even more,” Westcott says. Studies have found that during a woman’s first six months of twice-weekly weight training, she can rebuild about onequarter pound of muscle per week, he says. Because becoming stronger makes everything from chores to other kinds of workouts easier, women become firmer, fitter and more self-confident, Lucille observes. Independence rises, along with self-esteem. “As with all things in life: If you push against resistance, you get stronger,” she says. “That’s true both mentally and physically.” Note: Experts recommend using a certified trainer or weightlifting class to get started. Debra Melani writes about health care and fitness from Lyons, CO. Connect at DebraMelani.com.

Pumping Iron Boosts Overall Health for Men and Women

ayne Westcott, who has served as a consultant for many national organizations, from the U.S. Air Force to the American Council on Exercise, points to the relevant body of research he’s studied, which shows that the health benefits of building muscle can also help ward off many diseases and debilitating conditions. 4 Osteoporosis, by building up bone tissue 4 Diabetes, by increasing lean muscle, which helps the body regulate blood sugar levels 4 Heart disease, by increasing the good cholesterol and lowering the bad

See What Planting A Seed Can Accomplish

Start with one ad in a Natural Awakenings magazine. Next, place several ads in a region. Later, place

your ad in all of our magazines - watch your campaign grow to the size of a national forest.

Natural Awakenings is published locally across the nation in over 80 markets, enabling you to reach your target audience with multimarket and multimedia campaigns. Together we will create the ideal package for all of your marketing needs.

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

• Updated every month with new content • Search healthy products in our National Directory • Find your local magazine • Read feature stories En Español • Sign up for Promotions and Newsletters • So much more and it’s FREE!

4 Stroke, by lowering resting blood pressure 4 Depression, by building self-esteem and boosting endorphins 4 Colon disease, by increasing natural intestinal movement that keeps the colon clear

Search “Natural Awakenings”and download

4 Energy loss, by enhancing mitochondria, the powerhouse of the body natural awakenings

May 2015

inspiration

MOVING BEYOND SURVIVAL Our True Identity Surpasses Any Disease by Eric Nelson

“

et down off your cross.” Harsh words, especially coming from a longtime hospital chaplain when the woman she was addressing had just learned she was cancer-free. Regardless, “Within two minutes, she started retelling the story of her diagnosis, surgery and chemo,” recounted Debra Jarvis, affectionately known as “The Irreverent Reverend”, during a TEDMED talk in Washington, D.C. “She was using words like suffering, agony, struggle... and ended with, ‘I felt crucified.’” It was then that Jarvis asked this woman to do what

would likely require more of her than anything she’d done before. Over the years, Jarvis has observed the tendency for us to identify ourselves by our wounds as “survivors” of something that does not and should not define us. “What if people decided to claim their trauma as an experience, instead of taking it on as an identity?” she queries. “Maybe it would be the start of defining ourselves by who we have become and who we are becoming.” As Jarvis well knows, there are, in her words, “powerful forces” push-

Bonded & Insured

Best Green Cleaning Service 2010, 2011, 2013

Home Cleaning • Office Cleaning • Carpet Cleaning Green Fact: Within 26 seconds after exposure to chemicals such as traditional cleaning products , traces of these chemicals can be found in every organ in the body. The area’s first and most trusted green cleaning company 100% NonToxic — don’t be fooled by pretenders

10% off

House Cleaning*

*first time clients only. Must present coupon.

MAKING THE WORLD CLEANER... ONE HOME AT A TIME! greenworldhomecleaning.com 52

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

Call us for a FREE Estimate:

(941) 923-1717

ing us to do just the opposite. In 2005, she found herself in the same position as her friend, having recovered from cancer and trying to sort out what it all meant. “We don’t all have to start a foundation or write a book,” to claim meaning for ourselves, she says. “Maybe we make one small decision that can bring about a big change.” For some, this has meant exchanging a disease-prone view of themselves for a more inspired outlook. Too often, though, mustering the humility to adopt such a perspective can seem just as difficult as climbing down from whatever tortuous experience we’re clinging to. Yet, it’s essential. As those familiar with the Bible know, a central event of Jesus’ life, his crucifixion, was followed by his even more compelling resurrection, a term that thought leader Mary Baker Eddy describes as “spiritualization of thought; a new and higher idea of immortality, or spiritual existence; material belief yielding to spiritual understanding.” The good news is that such transformation is not exclusive, but available to anyone. Whether it’s at the urging of a chaplain or another counselor or our own divine inspiration that’s encouraging us to move on, we owe it to ourselves to begin discovering who and what we really are. Eric Nelson is a Christian Science healing practitioner from Petaluma, CA, who writes on the link between spiritual consciousness and health. Find more articles at norcalcs.org.

Nature always

wears the colors of the spirit. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

natural awakenings

May 2015

naturalpet

PET VACCINE ALTERNATIVES

Natural Steps to Nurture Immunity by Shawn Messonnier

ith pets, as with kids, vaccine safety and necessity are likely concerns. While holistic veterinarians tend to minimize the use of vaccines, their strongest stance is against unnecessary vaccinations. The point is to immunize only when it’s needed by individual patients while maximizing natural immunity. In the late 1970s, amid the discovery of the canine parvo virus, vets saw many puppies under 4 months of age suffer from this mysterious disease and die or be euthanized. Once a vaccine was made, we rarely saw pets dying from the parvo virus or parvoviral infection. So, in certain cases, vaccines can be life-saving. However, unnecessary and multiple simultaneous vaccines can also be life-taking, which doctors rarely mention. The truth is that only minimal vaccines are needed for dogs

and cats over the course of a pet’s life. No pet needs all of the vaccines that are currently manufactured, and none needs vaccines every six to 12 months. Pets do need veterinary checkups once or twice a year to screen for diseases affecting the liver, heart, kidneys, lungs and gastrointestinal and urinary systems, as well as cancer. Blood and urine testing, including blood testing for undiagnosed cancer, is vital, easy and inexpensive (every six months for pets 5 years and older and annually for those that are younger). A good protocol is akin to that developed by Dr. Jean Dodds, founder of Hemopet, of Garden Grove, California, a holistic veterinarian and an expert in animal vaccination and immunology. Her system involves administering limited vaccines to puppies and kittens based on their individual needs, and not more often than every three weeks for those younger than 8 weeks. Following this course, by 4 months of age the pet has been injected with four to six vaccines, compared to double to triple the amount supported by vaccine manufacturers and administered by breeders and most conventional doctors.

Such a judicious, limited vaccine protocol offers protection against the diseases that are the most lethal to the puppy or kitten while doing no harm to its natural immune system. As needed, individual pets may also receive a natural detoxification protocol to minimize vaccine reactions. Antioxidant supplements can boost the immune response, as well. Adult pet patients can also be given blood titer testing instead of vaccines. This measures the animal’s individual antibody responses to prior immunizations or common disease exposure and assures us the pet has adequate immunity against a specific disease. All of this assures the pet owner that the pet is protected against infectious diseases without the risks of annual multiple vaccinations. In most cases a protective titer is maintained for many years, which preempts disease and further reduces the number of vaccines the animal receives over its lifetime. Titer testing costs less than $100 for three common infectious diseases, is safer than routine immunization, protects the immune system, prevents vaccine reactions and assures owners, vets, boarding facilities, groomers and day care facilities that it’s safe to introduce the pet into such environments. This approach of minimal vaccinations is a prime reason holistic veterinarian patients tend to be healthier and live longer than the average pet, with even larger dogs regularly living in good health up to 15 to 20 years of age. Holistic veterinarians perform limited vaccines supplemented by titer testing to ensure levels of care that meet accepted standards. They base their approach on supportive science from institutions including the American Animal Hospital Association and American Association of Feline Practitioners to provide safe, proven, ongoing immunity for patients. Shawn Messonnier, a doctor of veterinary medicine practicing in Plano, TX, is the award-winning author of The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats and Unexpected Miracles: Hope and Holistic Healing for Pets. For more information, visit PetCareNaturally.com.

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

SARASOTA ANIMAL MEDICAL CENTER

$10 OFF Your First Wellness Visit*!

* New clients only. Must mention this ad when setting appointment.

There is a better way. A natural way.

Your destination for holistic veterinary healing on the West Coast of Florida. Your pet has options: • Holistic care for cancer, chronic illness & arthritis Jaime Gonzalez DVM, CVA • Over 25 years experience in holistic and emergency medicine • Accepting family vet referrals www.bearcreeksarasota.com 7509 S. Tamiami Tr. Sarasota, FL 34231 Sarena von de Heyde DVM

P: 941-312-6825 F: 941-487-7363 natural awakenings

May 2015

Dr. Luther: Yes they can. I have seen a number of indoor-only cats with a flea problem. If they go on a lanai, the fleas can hop in, or they can hitch a ride in on their caregivers clothing.

NA: What is the best way to remove a tick?

Understanding Pests and Pets: A Q & A with Dr. Anne Luther By Suzi Harkola

atural Awakenings: We have heard that this is a particularly bad year for fleas. Are you seeing more cases with the pets you treat? Dr. Luther: In general, I am not seeing more fleas this season. Most of my clients feed natural diets and do not over vaccinate their pets. Because they are healthy, they do not attract fleas as much as an unhealthy dog or cat will. Also, the clients who utilize consistent flea prevention are not experiencing a flea problem. However, some pets that have never experienced a flea infestation are coming in with a significant flea problem because they were not on any sort of preventative program. In Florida, it is hard to avoid fleas, even for indoor-only animals.

NA: What do you think about flea collars? Do they work to kill parasites? Dr. Luther: I do not believe most flea collars work at all. They are a waste of money and can be toxic to your pet. Recently Bayer, the maker of Advantage, released a new collar, called Seresto, that was supposed to be harmless and work effectively to repel 56

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

fleas and ticks for eight months. While this collar sounded promising, there have been numerous reports of seizures and other side effects while wearing this collar, so I would not recommend it.

NA: Besides keeping pets indoors, what other precautions can pet parents take to avoid infestations? Dr. Luther: The most important factor in preventing fleas from taking over your home is your pet’s overall health and immune system. A healthy pet will naturally repel parasites, and fleas will seek weaker, unhealthy animals. Always feed a natural diet and don’t over vaccinate and avoid using drugs or chemicals on your pet, unless absolutely necessary. Also, avoid chemical cleaners in your home and never use pesticides or herbicides in your yard. Use natural preventive measures in your house and yard, as well as for your pet as discussed later. Giving Sentinel, containing Lufenuron, once a month to prevent hatching of the eggs and larvae is reasonably safe and effective as well.

NA: Along those same lines, can indoor-only pets also contract fleas?

www.nasrq.com

Dr. Luther: Apply a drop or two of the essential oil Palo Santo directly onto the tick or spray a small amount of alcohol on the tick. This will make it dizzy, and it should loosen its hold on your pet. Once the tick has loosened its grip, you need to remove it carefully and gently from your pet using a pair of tweezers. Grasp the tick at the area where it is attached and pull the tick out steadily without twisting or jerking. Do not use force or pressure that will cause the tick to rupture or separate it from its head. At times, a part of the tick may remain embedded in the pet’s skin. Do not try to extract it. The remaining embedded part will eventually disappear.

NA: Are there natural remedies you would recommend/ suggest in lieu of commercial pesticides? Dr. Luther: Unfortunately, I have not found any natural products that can completely eradicate a flea infestation in Florida. However, there are natural products that can help prevent your pets from experiencing an infestation, and it is best to use these products on a regular basis. There are homemade shampoos and sprays which you can make yourself using essential oils. However, if you’d like to push the easy button, you can order Wondercide. These are cedar oil products for use on your yard, as well as your dog, cat and home. Wondercide is formulated with organic, food-grade ingredients to be safe, effective and easy-to-use. It kills the full flea and tick lifecycle on contact. You can also spray your buddy with this solution to repel pests any time he’s going into an area that is flea-, tick- or mosquito-infested. If your pet has fleas, a soapy bath with any natural shampoo or dish soap will kill them on contact. For dogs, you can also place several drops of lavender and PaloS essential oils into a chemical

free shampoo to prevent and kill fleas (as well as ticks). In general, I don’t recommend using essential oils for cats because a cats’ liver processes essential oils differently than a human or dog liver. Thus, it is wise to avoid their use or use extremely dilute mixtures with cats, avoiding Melaleuca and the citrus essential oils altogether. I also recommend using a flea comb soaked in soapy water several times per day after the initial bath until your friend is flea-free. Don’t forget that it’s not enough just to rid your pet of fleas. Fleas don’t spend all their time on your pet but will hop on when they need a meal. The eggs can be shed anywhere your pet spends time – including your bed. If you have experienced a flea problem, your house and yard must also be treated to prevent re-infestation.

NA: Are there side effects to commercial products? Dr. Luther: Absolutely. Until recently, the worst side effects that I have seen, including death, were from over the counter products such as Hartz. However, Trifexis now appears to be the most dangerous product on the market at this time. Its use has resulted in a myriad of problems including death. None of the commercially available products have zero risk. Comfortis causes nausea and vomiting, depression and lethargy, anorexia, ataxia, diarrhea, itching, trembling, hypersalivation and seizures. Nexgard can cause vomiting, diarrhea and anorexia, though rare. Advantage can cause numerous problems, including seizures and death. Frontline has fewer side effects than Advantage but is still toxic. Revolution may cause anorexia, vomiting, severe allergic reactions,

tremors and seizures in dogs. Just because a compound is applied to or worn on your pet’s fur doesn’t mean it’s safe. Remember: what goes on your pet goes in your pet by absorption through the skin or ingestion during grooming. Aside from the natural products listed above, I believe the safest flea prevention is Lufenuron, found in the heartworm preventative, Sentinel. I have rarely seen any problems with this product, and it has been around for a long time. While it is a very useful flea preventative, it is not very effective for eradicating an already present flea infestation.

NA: If a dog or cat has a flea infestation, what do you recommend for treatment?

NA: How about grooming? Is this a part of keeping pets fleaand tick-free? Dr. Luther: Absolutely. While shampooing will remove most fleas, it does not repel them for any length of time. Flea combing regularly is a very good way to remove fleas and to spot a flea problem before it turns into an infestation.

NA: If your pet contracts fleas, are there other serious implications for his or her health? Dr. Luther: Absolutely. Animals that are allergic to fleas may develop severe skin disease such as hot spots in the dog and miliary dermatitis in the cat. This can be very uncomfortable for the pet and may lead to secondary bacterial infections due to rubbing, licking and scratching. If the infestation is severe enough, pets can become anemic and may die due to chronic blood loss from the fleas feeding on your pet’s blood. This may sound unlikely, but I have seen it more than once.

Dr. Luther: Obviously, you must treat the environment as discussed previously. Bathe your pet if there are live fleas present. You will probably have to use some commercial flea products initially to eradicate the problem. I do not find Frontline to be even marginally effective for eradicating a flea infestation. I do not find Advantage to work very well either, and I have seen a myriad of health problems from Advantage and Advantix. Revolution seems to prevent a flea problem but will not work to eradicate an existing problem. Because Revolution can cause seizures and other problems in the dog, I don’t recommend it. I am currently recommending Nexgard for treating dogs with a flea problem. It has fewer side effects than Comfortis and seems to be the only product which effectively and safely kills fleas and ticks. Of course, the best thing to do is prevent the problem through natural and safe methods. Once you have an infestation, you may have little choice but to use one of these commercial products to alleviate your pet’s discomfort. Anne Luther, DVM, MS, BA, CVA, is the owner of Sarasota Animal Medical Center, located at 3646 Birky Street in Sarasota. In addition to office appointments, Sarasota Animal Medical Center also offers veterinary house call services. To schedule an appointment, call 941954-4771. For more information, visit SarasotaAnimalMedical.com.

Madri Wilson Massage Therapy • Reflexology Specializing in Head to Toe Therapeutic Care for Living Well

Juice Plus+ Wellness Consultant

*Voted Best Yoga Studio in Sarasota* 2010 1st Place Natty: Yoga, Zen & Spiritual Center

810 Central Ave Sarasota FL 34236 941.952.5280

Drop in $14 or 5 classes $50 RosemaryCourt@yahoo.com www.RosemaryCourt.com

www.madrilovesjuiceplus.com

941-957-1376 2601 Belvoir Blvd. Sarasota, FL 34237 www.madriwilson.com Gift Certificates Available • Certified Reflexologist • LMT

MA0018456

natural awakenings

May 2015

petperspective

Thinking of Giving Mom a Pet for Mother’s Day? Think Again!

by Suzi Harkola

kitten or puppy for Mother’s Day – what could be cuter? You know she’d just love it. After all, she lives alone, and a new pet would be the perfect roommate. Or would it? Unless your mom has specifically told you she would love a new family member (hints count, but there should be a lot of them and very specific), please give it a second thought. People who give animals as gifts mean well, but their good intensions often misfire. Giving a pet as a gift can end badly for all parties involved. While it is true that pets bring us untold joy and wonderful companionship, they are a huge responsibility. Moms who receive a pet as a gift don’t pay for the animal, but the gift is hardly free. It means a longterm commitment of time, money and energy that may exceed their abilities. Among the costs: • Food • Bedding and toys • Veterinary care 58

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

• Grooming expenses • Time to exercise, play with and train the animal • Boarding or pet sitting costs Some moms don’t want a pet at all. For those who do, it is crucial that they personally pick out the pet to make sure it’s a good fit. A poor fit can mean the animal is sent to a shelter or another home, which is hard on both the pet and the person who received the animal as a gift. Some pets suffer loneliness and neglect once their novelty has worn off. A successful adoption requires time and thought. Like a lot of gifts, animals can be impulse purchases. Pet adoption is more successful when you meet a few cats or dogs before finding the right match. Ideally, adopters should research to learn what traits they want before visiting a shelter and making the very important decision of choosing a pet. A Better Gift Shelley Thayer, Executive Director at Cat Depot, suggests foster care for homeless mommy cats and kittens. “Foster care is a life-altering way to help,” she notes.

www.nasrq.com

“We [at Cat Depot] currently have 50 kittens in foster care, and we need more fosters. We have kittens who need ‘mothers’ to bottle feed them, and older kittens who need a mother’s loving care, as well as young mothers and kittens who need a quiet and safe place where they can be nurtured and receive love. Last year, we saved 720 kittens. This year, we hope to help more. In fact, Sarasota County has not euthanized kittens for the last two years for lack of space. With the help of mothers or mothers’ helpers, we can make that statistic three years in a row in 2015.” She also suggests sponsoring a mom’s or kittens’ spay for $50, or a complete medical package that includes spay, FVRCP and Rabies vaccine, deworming, flea treatment, microchip, FIV and FeLV testing, and nail trim for $150. If you truly want to help a loved one get a pet, buy that person a gift certificate to use at a shelter when the time is right. Cat Depot in Sarasota as well as other pet shelters along the Suncoast, can arrange for Mom to come in, at her convenience, and choose her new furry friend. Perhaps a special needs pet or long term resident cat or dog would be a good choice. Another good option is to donate in honor of or in memory of someone you love. If choosing a gift certificate for pet adoption, pair that with a gift basket filled with all the things a new puppy or kitten will need: toys, collar, leash, treats, food and bedding, to name a few. You can also include books on training, breeds or living with a companion animal. Check out a local pet supply store for endless ideas, such as Holistic for Pets or Pet Supply Center, located in Sarasota and Bradenton, or A Natural Pet Pantry in Osprey. These are just a few suggestions to have a truly happy Mom on Mother’s Day and to help our area’s sheltered kittens and puppies have happier lives, too. Suzi Harkola is the Managing Editor for Natural Awakenings, freelance writer and life-long cat lover.

www.ibebarter.com

IBE BARTER

BUILD. GROW. BARTER.ÂŽ Physician is needing Brochures & Business Cards

Printer is in need of Holiday Catering

the modern alternative

currency IBE ACCOUNT

Mechanic needs Annual Physical

Restaurant owner is in need of Auto Repairs

Build. Grow. Barter. IBE Barter helps its members increase sales and reduce costs by bringing in new business, which would not otherwise happen, and turning those sales into goods and services its members need. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a true win-win for all involved.

CALL TODAY 941-955-6100 www.ibebarternews.com natural awakenings

May 2015

Fusion Therapy: Where Ancient Healing Meets the Modern Age

by Mary-Elizabeth Schurrer

magine for a moment that you are reclining in a zero-gravity lounger, as the subtle vibrations of an aerosol generator permeate your nostrils with dry salt, lulling your entire body into a stress-free and therapeutic state. Now, consider this enticing proposition: instead of just imagining it, you can enjoy that feeling of deep relaxation in actuality. Transport yourself from the demands of daily life and enter the tranquility that is Fusion Therapy, the Suncoast’s first and only dry salt wellness center. Combining a luxurious spalike ambiance with the restorative energy of a European salt cave, Fusion Therapy offers treatments unlike anything you’ll find at a conventional health club. Co-owners, Terry Schibler and Gena Lewis-Schibler, have dedicated their entire professional lives to improving the wellbeing of others through a vast knowledge of alternative healing modalities, as well as a passion for creating unforgettable customer experiences. “Terry and I formulated our menu of services based on techniques, practices and technologies that we’ve personally found both beneficial and effective. We came up with the name ‘Fusion Therapy’ because we have a fusion of elements to pick from, which will give our clients a specific treatment designed to meet their health needs. There are four main categories of service: dry salt therapy, advanced massage and bodywork, full-spectrum infrared sauna treatments and other alternative healing therapies,” explains Gena. Your wellness journey begins with Fusion Therapy’s signature offering – dry salt therapy. Step inside a welcoming suite where you’ll be surrounded, floor-to-ceiling, by organic Dead Sea salt, then spend the next 45 minutes inhaling the rejuvenating properties of this mineral-rich environment. “As you sit back and relax in our NASA-inspired zerogravity chairs, we calibrate our aerosol generator to microionize medical-grade salt into the air, which you’ll breathe in 60

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

safely, naturally and comfortably. This combination of aerosolized salt and therapeutic minerals creates a microclimate that reduces inflammation, kills bacteria, and balances positive and negative ions in the body. “It has also been proven to aid in symptom relief for a multitude of conditions including – but not limited to – asthma, allergies, bronchitis and sinusitis, emphysema, arthritis or joint pain, and skin issues such as eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis,” adds Gena. If the prospect of luxuriating amidst authentically-sourced Dead Sea salt piques your interest, now picture yourself unwinding with a deep-tissue massage. Gena expounds, “Today, the medical community is actively embracing bodywork as part of the recovery process for illness and injury, especially relating to pain relief. Massage can be a powerful ally in your healthcare regimen, and our therapists have over 37 years of combined expertise to help meet your health goals. “We specialize in modalities that are often overlooked by some members of the medical community. Lymphatic drainage therapy, cranio-sacral therapy, brain therapy and visceral manipulation are all grounded in ancient healing techniques, which we apply with modern physiological and anatomical knowledge.” She then goes on to describe the additional treatment options Fusion Therapy provides. “You can experience the sun’s radiant energy in our state-of-the-art, full-spectrum infrared sauna. Unlike traditional saunas that heat the air sometimes to uncomfortable levels, our LED infrared sauna heats the body directly, allowing you to receive maximum health benefits in far more comfort. Used by wellness professionals, our ‘Sunlighten’ sauna is a safe and effective means to support a number of health goals including pain relief, weight loss, reduction in blood pressure, detoxification, wound healing and relaxation. “Finally, we offer a variety of complimentary services, ranging from holistic skin care to Oriental Meridian facial cupping, subtle body energy harmonization and restorative yoga in our large salt room.” As you become fully immersed in these invigorating treatments, expect to feel freed from the pressures of a hectic schedule and soothed from any physical frailties. That’s the beauty of caring for your body the alternative way, which Fusion Therapy makes feasible, convenient and even foolproof. “We draw on multiple traditions from all over the world. For example, the use of salt to help manage respiratory issues and promote overall healing dates back centuries. In Europe, some hospitals have salt rooms to aid in patients’ symptom management and recovery. Similarly, sauna therapy finds its modern roots in Finland, but has been shown to be a 2,000-year-old approach. “As for massage and bodywork, ancient Egyptian hiero-

glyphics depict forms of massage therapy, and historians believe that in India the practice of massage dates back to 3,000 BCE, possibly earlier. At Fusion Therapy, we combine these ancient healing traditions with contemporary advanced practices and technologies,” notes Gena. Given that historical evidence attributes the longevity of early civilizations to their reliance on such curative methods, it’s not surprising how modern society has recently rediscovered those age-old benefits. Gena clarifies, “Many of our clients come to us because they have exhausted other conventional remedies. Western medicine certainly as its place in maintaining physical health and well-being, but alternative therapies can also play their role. Unlike many conventional medical treatments, the therapies we offer are completely drug-free and have few – if any – side-effects. Our methods are designed to complement and be adjunctive to any current medical treatment. Our highly trained staff of therapists customizes each treatment to meet the specific needs and goals of our clients, focusing on a truly holistic approach to healing.” Furthermore, the Fusion Therapy team accommodates every budget and lifestyle consideration. “We offer packages that make our services highly affordable, including multi-therapy packages like our ‘Respiratory Rescue,’ designed to help with allergies, cold and flu symptoms, and other respiratory issues. We also offer a special $25 introductory price for first-time clients who want to try a dry salt therapy session.

“At Fusion Therapy, we are committed to helping people achieve ultimate health and wellness. We’ve personally experienced the powerful results of these therapies. If we hadn’t, we wouldn’t offer them,” concludes Gena. Both Terry Schibler and Gena Lewis-Schibler are longtime licensed massage therapists, having earned their credentials from Sarasota School of Massage. Terry specializes in cranio-sacral therapy, visceral manipulation, zero balancing, brain therapy and lymphatic drainage therapy. Gena specializes in pranic healing, aromatherapy, sound healing, Reiki, lymphatic drainage and cranio-sacral therapy. She is also a skilled esthetician, having graduated from the Florida Academy of Skin Care, and uses only the purest, most natural beauty products available. Location: Pine Park Centre, 7069 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. Hours: 10 am–6 pm, Tuesday–Friday and 9 am–2 pm, Saturday (closed Sunday and Monday). For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 941-921-7900 or visit FusionTherapySarasota. com. Mary-Elizabeth Schurrer is a writer and copy editor for the Sarasota-Manatee edition of Natural Awakenings. She works as a freelance writer, blogger and social media marketer, based in Southwest, FL. Her personal blog, HealthBeAHippie.Wordpress.com, features practical tips for embracing a fit, nutritious and empowered lifestyle.

Sing HU

Clinical & Transpersonal Hypnotherapist

for

Insight, Peace and Calm

Have you suffered enough?

Anxious, frustrated, stressed?

Just can’t stop a habit?

You... Reimagined!

HU is for everyone of any background or belief You are invited to participate in a Community HU Song for 20 minutes, followed by a brief, quiet contemplation. Singing HU can expand your awareness, help you experience divine love, heal a broken heart, offer solace in times of grief and bring peace & calm.

To hear the sound of HU, visit: www.HearHU.org Please join us

VENICE - SAT, May 9

11am -- Jacaranda Library 4143 Woodmere Park Blvd.

SARASOTA - SUN, May 17 10am -- The AmericInn 5931 Fruitville Rd

 Facebook: EckankarInSarasota Light refreshments and conversation follow. Presented by local members of ECKANKAR - Religion of the Light and Sound of God.

It’s time for Hypnosis Now! • • • • • • • •

Stop Smoking Lose Weight Stress Solutions Transform Anxious Feelings Improve Medical Conditions * Clear Fear and Sadness Enhance Sports Performance Improve Your Relationships 2030 Bee Ridge Rd. Sarasota, FL 34239 www.bethsnyderhypnosis.com

Discover for yourself what scientific studies support… 6 sessions of Hypnotherapy yields a 96% success rate.

Call today for a complimentary 1 hour compassionate consultation 941.228.8020 @Tweetiebeth bethsnyderhypnosis@gmail.com

*Hypnosis is a cooperative relationship, diagnosed conditions require a physician referral or prescription for hypnosis.

natural awakenings

May 2015

hazardous to the health of anyone over 40 or those on a lowsodium diet.” The product has been featured on multiple news programs, including the ABC News on Food Safety with Peter Jennings.

The Beauty of Ozone

Better Water, Naturally, from Sparky by Suzi Harkola

ecades ago, while living in the Pacific Northwest, Bill Nelson had a dream of creating a product that would not only filter water without salt, but that would create water that was actually healthier for people and animals to drink. His company, Sparky Healthy Water, uses oxygen and ozone on demand to sanitize the whole home’s water. Similar in appearance to a standard water softener, Sparky™ is a self-contained hybrid water system, using an aeration filter and patented bubbler to naturally clean the water. “The beauty of this product lies in its simplicity,” states Nelson. “There is no maintenance, no filter changes, chlorine or salt (and we all know how expensive that can be), no iron stains and no sulfur odors. Best of all, there is no bad taste.” Much like lightening makes ozone, which is a natural air and water purifier, the Sparky system creates ozone on demand. “Major cities and bottled water companies sanitize over 5 billion gallons of water per day in this manner,” notes Nelson. The product is manufactured in Sarasota and is certified organic by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. One of the many positives about Sparky is the fact that it removes chlorine, iron, sulfur, harmful bacteria and viruses, but leaves beneficial levels of calcium and manganese, essential to the body’s health. “With the large number of wells in Sarasota and Charlotte counties, particularly around Venice, Englewood, Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, the traditional water softener system simply is outdated and ineffective,” Nelson says. “Sparky is revolutionary in that it is an all-in-one water sanitizer. Your water will taste and feel amazing.” He continues to point out that the water filtered through a Sparky system is more than just taste. It has environmental impact, too. “Every salt water softener discharges 12,000 to 50,000 gallons of salt-laced brine every year into the Florida environment,” he explains, and “salt water softeners can be 62

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

Ozone, chemical symbol O3, is produced by changing the oxygen in the air by means of an electronic discharge. We all know how great the air smells after a lightning storm – clean, fresh, invigorating. When ozone mixes with water, there are no carcinogenic by products as there can be with chlorine and other chemicals. The by-product of ozone is pure oxygen. Nelson has been on a campaign to ban salt water softening systems for years. “We are back-flushing chemicals and salt into our environment daily,” he says, adding, “This is truly an environmental issue. Water softeners waste between 70 and 300 gallons of water every week.” He goes on to point out the ozone is a water purifier and sterilizer: “It’s 150 times more powerful than chlorine, 3,500 times faster-acting than chlorine, and leaves no toxic or carcinogenic by-products. Because of ozone’s short life, it quickly converts to pure oxygen and, thus, adds much needed oxygen to the water. Because Spark requires no chemicals, it is a healthier and very- cost-effective solution to water purification.” The units come in multiple sizes, from sink top to whole house, and some are specifically designed to purify swimming pools and spas. “Since oxygen can be absorbed through the skin,” Nelson notes, “bathing in highly-oxygenated water can be extremely healthful.” He is quick to point out that ozone does not replace a water filter. “In fact,” he says, “an in-line water filter should be placed before water ozonators to keep particulate matter out of the ozone machine and thus out of your water. While a filter is still necessary, ozone will kill bacteria and viruses and give you an extra level of protection. Ozone should be the final stage in water treatment to ensure your water is bacteria free.” Bill Nelson, AKA Mr. Ozone, is the founder of Sparky Healthy Water, LLC. He retired from the University of Washington, moving to Florida for a climate change. He immediately noticed Florida’s problem with poor water quality and the cleaning systems in place, so he opted to use his 35-year knowledge in ozone sanitation to solve the problem. His Sparky Hybrid Water Sanitizer is manufactured in Sarasota and is used for homes using city tap or well water. For more information, visit SparkyHealthyWater.com, email Bill@SparkyHealthyWater.com or call 941-786-7337.

Chinese Health Gem of the Month

Addressing Menopause and Menstrual Issues by Rene Ng

he female reproductive cycle begins during the teenage years and starts to decline around the age of 50. During this decline, production of female hormones slows down, eventually resulting in the termination of menstruation. This process is known as menopause and affects all women as they advance through their life cycles. Suring the menstruation, as well as menopause stages, women experience different degrees of discomfort and symptoms, with their health frequently affected accordingly. Here are some health gems that can help women address some of these discomfort and symptoms.

Menstruation Issues

• Eat more cooked leafy green vegetables and fewer raw vegetables. • Include ginger, scallions, chives and raspberries in your diet. • Massage fresh ginger oil onto the abdomen and place heating pad over the abdomen for 30 minutes for pain relief. • Avoid ice cold drinks. • Drink chamomille tea to de-stress and relax the muscles.

Beach Life Wellness Massage • Acupuncture • Fitness • Organic Facials

• Drink raspberry and black teas. • Increase your daily practice of Tai Chi before your period starts.

Menopause Issues

• Avoid coffee and reduce intake of alcohol. • Stop smoking. • Manage stress better, as this can reduce hot flashes, and laugh more. • Avoid dairy and spicy foods. • Eat tofu stir-fried with mixed vegetables, particularly broccoli and bean sprouts. • Add Ginseng and/or Dang Gui to soups. • Drink juice from cucumber, celery and watermelon, as well as black tea to reduce hot flashes. • Get a good night’s sleep. Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine work wonders for symptoms and discomforts from menopause and menstruation. Seeking out a qualified Acupuncture Physician will go a long way toward helping with menstrual and/or menopausal issues. These Chinese health gems are natural folk remedies used by native Chinese households for thousands of years. They work wonders naturally – try it and feel for yourself! Rene Ng (DOM, AP, L.Ac) is a Sarasota-based licensed and board-certified Acupuncture Physician. Connect at 941-7735156 or RNG@ChineseMedicalSolutions.com

Healthy Food for a Healthy Life

Open 7 Days a Week Because She Deserves It!... Mother’s Day Special Gift Package Full Body Massage, Refreshing Citrus Foot Scrub, plus Organic Facial

Smoothie/Juice Bar 9am-8pm Lunch & Dinner 11am-8:30pm Breakfast only Saturday & Sunday 8 - 11am

Now Only $125

(Available through 5/31/15) Join Us Tuesdays 12:30pm - 3:30pm

Stress Relief Acupuncture 30 min. $35 FREE Chair Massage Space is limited CALL NOW to make your reservation 301 Albee Rd. W Nokomis, FL 34275 941-244-2006 • www.beachlifewellness.com

801 S Tamiami Trail | Nokomis, FL 34275

941.412.4334 | cafeevergreen.net Our winter menu is here...

try our new delicious winter dishes natural awakenings

May 2015

Singing those Belly Blues by Fred Harvey, MD

ave you ever thought, “Why am I so bloated?” or “Is this the stomach flu again?” or “Will I ever go again?” Well, it probably was not a stomach flu and, yes, you will go again. If any of these scenarios sound familiar to you or a loved one, then please read on because you are probably one of the 10 percent to15 percent of people who experience symptoms of IBS, or Irritable Bowel Syndrome. That’s 30 to 45 million adult Americans who are affected by this disorder! The symptoms are abdominal pain, discomfort and altered bowel habits, resulting in constipation, diarrhea or both. All of the systems in the body function with a rhythm – a regularity. Our bowels are no different from the heart and lungs. Breathing is regular and automatic, and our bowel function should also be like clockwork. Things do go awry and, no, when the belly blues strike, it is not usually the flu. Although influenza B can cause diarrhea, it does not do it recurrently and unexpectedly like IBS. Food poisoning is a cause of acute loose bowels, and it occurs more often that we think because we often shrug off frequently occurring symptoms as just “business as usual” for 64

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

our body when, in fact, things are not functioning optimally, and the symptom is evidenced by irregularity and inconsistency. Abdominal pain is the essential symptom, but there are no severe symptoms such as blood in the stool, fever or copious watery stools that don’t stop. Those need urgent medical attention. There is no known specific cause for IBS. Thus there are no specific laboratory tests to diagnose it. It is a “functional” disorder that is diagnosed by recognizing patterns of signs and symptoms with limited testing. There is a strong connection between the brain and the gut, and stress may certainly trigger or worsen IBS symptoms. Stress may also challenge the microbiome, the family of bacteria that make up the digestive and defense organ in our intestines. This group of bacteria is critical in the metabolism and stability of bowel function and in the overall physiology of the body. Imbalances in the microbiome are related to symptoms in some affected individuals. It would make sense that what we put in our mouths would affect the digestive process and the function of our bowels. It turns out that science supports common sense here. In the prevalent medical nutrition model, the concepts of nutrition have been radically simplified into three areas: protein, fat and carbohydrate. This is too simple, however, because there are different types of protein, fat and carbohydrates. There are short-chain (sugar) and long-chain (starch) carbohydrates. There is a group of short-chain carbs called FODMAPS (Fermentable Oligo-saccharides, Di-saccharides, Monosaccharides And Polyols) that can trigger symptoms. These sugars and sugar alcohols are not digested, and they are fermented by our microbiome into carbon dioxide. This gas production causes symptoms. It has been shown that the Western high fat and high sugar diet relative to the high fiber diet of indigenous peoples causes an adverse shift in the microbiome. There is overgrowth of less desirable bacteria, less growth of beneficial bacterial and less diversity. Trans fats and partially hydrogenated vegetable oils can kill beneficial bacterial. Consider the symptoms after consuming a nice bouquet of hot, crispy French fries. Coffee and alcohol can really tear down the intestinal barriers that protect the lining of the gut. Histamine causes your nose to stuff and sneeze. Did you know that it can also causes stomach acid to increase and stomach cramps to occur? Did you know that foods like chocolate, smoked meat, peanuts and chick peas contain histamine? These can trigger IBS symptoms too! Food sensitivities are complex enough to cover in a separate article, but consider the current popular sensitivity: gluten. In sensitive individuals, we can see the gamut from full blown celiac and IBS symptoms to mild heartburn. So, you see, the issue can be extremely complex. To simplify, we can focus on a few principles. 1. Eat the right foods. It may mean giving up the pizza, beer or bread. 2. Keep your microbiome healthy. 3. Keep the intestinal lining healthy. When we do that, often the symptoms of IBS disappear.

Try these dietary interventions: • Low FODMAP diet. Avoiding these sugars can be very

useful. Some grains, like quinoa, are acceptable, but I find it interesting that the gluten-containing grains such as wheat and rye contain other potentially irritating chemicals called fructans. So a gluten-free diet is suggested. You can find resources at AboutIBS.org. • Low Histamine diet. This can be used coincident with the FODMAP diet or separately. I again find it interesting that wheat germ is a histamine liberator, which is just another reason to go gluten-free. Resources to be found at HistamineIntolerance.org.uk. • A good probiotic is essential for most people. But, probiotics are not all created equal. When selecting your probiotic, please refer to the back label. When you see the name of the bacteria like Bifidobacterium lactis or Lactobacillus Acidophilus, look for more information after the name such as B. lactis (HN019) or L. Acidophilus (NCFM). These extra designations mean that the manufacturer has the genetic “license tag” of the bacteria, and thus you know that it is the correct bacteria to use in humans. This is more important than refrigeration of the product. I stock Xymogen Probiotics in my office pharmacy. Lastly, do yourself a favor and keep a food and symptom diary! It is very helpful for you and your doctor, so you can fight those belly blues. Dr. Fred Harvey will be speaking on Gut Health at several locations this summer. For more information on this topic or to schedule an exploratory consultation, please contact Dr. Fred Harvey’s office at 941-929-9355. The Harvey Center for Integrative Medicine is located at 3982 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota.

Sparky Healthy Water NATURAL, HEALTHY WATER No Salt or Chemicals

Removes Harmful Toxins, Bacteria, and Viruses • Sanitize your water

with Ozone - it is Natural! • Ozone is 100% oxygen,

FDA approved • 5 year Warranty Healthy Whole House, City & Well Water Systems www.SparkyHealthyWater.com 941-202-9050

natural awakenings

May 2015

Yoga Teacher Training: Discover Your Best Nature

by Ginny East Shaddock

he leisure of summer often brings the opportunity for new experiences and broadening horizons. Travel widens a person’s perspective and gives clarity to the world. However, while taking a trip to someplace exotic like the Caribbean is fun, no destination can make as big an impact as traveling within to explore your own heart and mind. Yoga teacher’s training not only provides yoga enthusiasts with the skills and confidence to teach yoga as an alternate career or side job, but the course also delves deep into the core philosophy and theory that makes the practice of yoga a deeply poignant, life-altering experience. When that course is taken at a vibrant Yoga Retreat Center, such as Heartwood, students enjoy convening with nature, and reconnecting to the earth becomes an empowering part of their journey. Heartwood is a yoga student’s dream, with a fourth-acre Chakra meditation garden always blooming with flowers, and a koi pond and waterfall serenading a quiet meditation. The Zen fire pit invites deep discussion, a sea of ferns makes the air feel fresher, and tall, 66

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

stately oaks offering shade over quiet seating areas remind us that the natural world is a work of art to be enjoyed and appreciated. Heartwood’s state-of-the-art, organic studio features soaring windows and warm wood framework to inspire practice. Learning proper technique, anatomy, history and hands-on corrections is only one part of yoga training done here. Beyond this, students study the yoga sutras, Chakra theory and intention setting, while engage in vibrant group discussions to explore yoga beyond the mat. At Heartwood, students in the RYT200 training work with experienced ERYT-500 teachers. The program begins with demystifying yoga, as the course openly evaluates the pros and cons of commercialized yoga in America. Only after yoga is deconstructed then put back together as the vibrant, beautiful practice it can and should be, will “big yoga” (the name that director, Ginny East Shaddock, uses to describe authentic yoga as a tool for self-discovery and therapy) find perspective. Many programs teach a single method of yoga such as Bikram, Ashtanga or Anusara, and students, who’ve already

www.nasrq.com

have broad exposure to the vast array of yoga styles available and have found the one style that speaks to them, may be well served to train only in the method of their choice. However, many people find themselves teaching classes in places with a diverse population such as an office building, gym, recreational center or vacation resort. In these circumstances, students will arrive with varied experience and expectations. If a teacher recognizes and understands both the differences and similarities among various yoga methods, they’ll have a broad base to draw from. This prepares the instructor to teach a variety of levels and types of classes to support varied yoga paths. Most importantly, people come to teacher’s training with certain assumptions, but as their awareness and skill set grows, they discover yoga might take them directions they never expected. The broad-based program leaves them open to new possibilities. “They say, when the student is ready, the teacher appears. And, while many people are becoming yoga certified, not all of them are finding jobs because they lack a unique and strong voice that others can relate to or want to follow. I believe each one of us has something special to offer the world, and there is no one-size-fits-all preordained series of poses or words to define yoga. “Therefore, I’m careful not to create teachers who are carbon copies of me, going through the motions of my classes as if that is the one true way of teaching yoga. I present a wealth of information and differing opinions, and I encourage everyone to embrace only what rings absolutely true to them personally. Each aspiring teacher is encouraged to develop his or her instincts, then consider their life experience and special gifts while developing a class. Only if you have conviction and trust in your knowledge and skill, will you be a truly dynamic teacher,” explains East Shaddock. Many graduates of the Heartwood Yoga RYT-200 program have gone on to teach traditional Hatha yoga classes, both privately and in local studios, but just as many have chosen to tap into their personal skills and experience to create unique classes that define their niche in the business. Graduates include teachers now offering classes in

circus and aerial yoga, Christian yoga, yoga for addiction recovery, yoga for weight loss and hybrid classes, such as yoga/pilates or yoga/dance. This attitude that the wider the umbrella of knowledge, the stronger a graduate will be has inspired the program directors at Heartwood to include a great deal of additional trainings to their program. The entire course covers all the required basic training defined by Yoga Alliance, but also includes Reiki Level 1 certification, aerial yoga certification, and Ayurveda basics in order to make the program as inspirational and fun as it is educational. “We believe this course is so life-altering that everyone should go through it, whether they have aspirations to become yoga teachers or not. The journey changes people from the inside out,” notes David Shaddock, RYT-500 teacher. Making yoga accessible to all is an important part of Heartwood’s mission statement, so the school offers RYT training for far less than the cost of other similar programs in the area. Plus, tuition includes the extra certifications, 20 complimentary classes and several additional perks. The summer immersion course features the shortest time frame for certification to accommodate those who want an intense experience, but the school also offers a seven-weekend summer course, and a once-a-week daytime course will be offered this fall for people who can’t make weekends or evenings. If students do not feel ready to teach at the session’s end, they are welcome to continue in future sessions, free-of-charge. Some graduates return to reinforce their understanding of one facet of the training such as anatomy or yin yoga, while others have chosen to take the entire course a second time to gain a stronger information base before they begin teaching on their own.

“If you trust us to help you become a yoga teacher, we’ll do whatever it takes to get you there,” assures East Shaddock. “No one should invest money and time into yoga training, then walk out the door ill-prepared or lacking confidence. We work with our students until they’re truly ready to share their yoga with others. Yoga training connects the people involved on deep levels, so our students are also our friends. We will always support our friends and help them walk confidently in the direction of their dreams.” The summer Immersion RYT-200 at Heartwood Retreat Center begins June 22. For more information, call 941-359-9642 or 941-745-5719. Visit HeartwoodRetreatCenter.com to read about the program and watch a slideshow, featuring highlights from former sessions. Heartwood is a Yoga Alliance certified school in RYT-200, RYT-300 and Children’s Yoga Certifications.

We at Natural Awakenings Honor our Fallen Soldiers

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

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...

941-371-9333 www.ccosl.com

SPECIAL EVENTS Starting Sunday, May 3, at 12:15pm and every first Sunday of the month Rev. Sharon Elizabeth James along with other healers will officiate an OPEN HEART DIVINE HEALING SERVICE anchoring Powerful Divine Healing energies within the Sacred Circle. We expect Miracles!

Friday, May 8th Introduction to Damanhur Mystery School Program for the Awakened Soul - 7-9pm Ambassador Crotalo Sesamo shares information on this living laboratory, an eco-community in Northern Italy, co-creating the dream of the new Humanity, best known for the Subterranean Temples, often called the 8th wonder of the world. $10.

Saturday, May 9th, 10-6pm & Sunday, May 10th, 1pm-8pm Astral Travel, Level 1

An initiatory journey into the Damanhur Mystery School. $250. http://www.thetemples.org/ natural awakenings

May 2015

Feng Shui:

A Modern Day Perspective on an Ancient Healing Science

by Kathy Keh

Why Is Feng Shui So Confusing?

There is a lot of confusion around Feng Shui, – what it is, why you use it, how to apply it – and there are good reasons for the confusion. First, there are no formal standards for how this ancient healing science should be implemented. There are no standards for the type of study required prior to going out to practice it or to teach it. Whereas other Chinese healing sciences like acupuncture have very strict rules and regulations around its application, as of today, there is no such thing in the world of Feng Shui. As a result, a multitude of various schools have evolved over the years, many of which have moved the practice and application of Feng Shui far away from its original, intended purposes. Not only does this lack of consistency cause confusion, but it has diluted Feng Shui’s overall effectiveness and, in turn, its credibility. This is in the process of changing, however, because the Chinese Government has recently begun taking an active role in standardizing this ancient healing science, which will help to diminish this confusion over time.

nothing to do with aesthetically improving the look and feel of our living and work environments. Surprised? Although this is usually a natural manifestation of using Feng Shui, it is not the reason why we use it. We use it to do something far greater than that: we actually use Feng Shui to help us discover what we were meant to do with our lives, and to receive the inspiration and ideas needed to actually go out and do it. So many of us yearn to know what it is that we were truly meant to do in this life. We know deep down inside that our lives were not meant to be lived by “playing it safe” or so that we could “live up to” someone else’s expectations, and yet the answers can be so elusive. This can be really frustrating and even depressing. The great news is that when we properly apply the principles of Feng Shui to the environments where we spend most of our time, we significantly increase our chances of living a life that reflects our true purpose, as well as a life where we joyfully express our unique gifts to the world. This is the ultimate reason why we use Feng Shui.

Why Do We Use Feng Shui?

What is Feng Shui?

If more people were aware of the real reason why we use Feng Shui, everyone would be using it without fail. Believe it or not, Feng Shui has absolutely 68

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

The original or “Classical” form of Feng Shui (the version of Feng Shui we refer to in this article) has been around for over 3000 years and originated in

www.nasrq.com

China when this country was an agrarian society, highly dependent upon the powerful forces of nature to grow their crops and successfully feed their families. Feng Shui began initially as a set of principles that were used to determine the most ideal locations for a village to be situated in relation to its natural surroundings, as this relationship was found to be the single determining factor as to whether a community thrived (by living in harmony with the their natural surroundings) versus just barely survived (by working against the forces of nature, and not living in harmony with their natural surroundings). Feng Shui has evolved over time to take into consideration that most of us do not live in farming communities anymore. As the original founders of this practice observed more patterns, additional formulas were added that further expand our ability to analyze built space, but the core objectives remain the same. We are still systematically tapping into the endless reserves of healing energy found in our natural surroundings so that it can be utilized in homes and offices to the benefit of the people living and working inside. Some people refer to this type of energy as “Universal Life Force,” but, in the world of Feng Shui, we call it “Qi” (pronounced “Chee”). As we all know, forces found in nature have the ability to manifest themselves as miraculously life giving and supportive, as well as be utterly destructive so the key is to capitalize on energy of the life giving, beneficial sort, and minimize that of the harmful sort.

How Do We Do Feng Shui?

It gets quite technical, which most people do not realize and is the subject matter for volumes of books, but, in a nutshell, we use three very formulaic systems for analyzing built space. They are San He (Landscape and Formations), San Yuan (Flying Stars) and Ba Zhai (Eight Mansion). Each formula allows us to determine exactly how Qi will best reach your door, the quality of it once it arrives, and how it will affect each individual occupying that space. If a Luo Pan, or very powerful compass, is not utilized from the moment the analysis begins, then you know you are using the more modern forms, but,

Boost Your Mood and Energy Levels! Ne Sh w op W , Re Ou eb de r Sto sign re ed

One Serving Has the Equivalent Antioxidants of Four Servings of Fruits and Vegetables.

Made with certified-organic, non-GMO, Paleo profile ingredients, Natural Awakenings Green Powder supplement nourishes and strengthens every system in your body, resulting in:

• SUSTAINED ENERGY • ENHANCED RECOVERY • MENTAL CLARITY • OVERALL WELL-BEING

9.5-oz jar $54.99 (30-day supply) plus $5 for shipping

Kathy Keh is a Master Practitioner of Classical Feng Shui, instructor of Classical Feng Shui for the Wu Ji Academy headquartered in Montreux, Switzerland, and owner of Bright Life, Natural Awakenings 2015 Award Winner for “Favorite Business of the Year” located in Sarasota. For more information, go to BrightLife-USA.com or contact Keh directly at 941-366-8113 or info@ BrightLife-USA.com.

Order online today at

ShopNaturalAwakenings.com or call: 888-822-0246

Have a Stubborn Skin Disorder and Tried Everything Else? Finally, there’s a solution: try Natural Awakenings’ DermaClear, a natural, affordable, skin repair salve.

Ne Sh w op W , Re Ou eb de r Sto sign re ed

in order to tap into the true power of Feng Shui, you must know the precise orientation of a building on the earth. Without this key piece of data, it is impossible to apply the formulas that have been developed to analyze these built structures accurately. Once we have made this initial assessment and we determine what is beneficial and what is harmful, then we make enhancements that make the beneficial even more beneficial, and the harmful as least harmful as possible. We do this by manipulating the energy patterns using Chinese 5-Element theory. Using Feng Shui to bring Qi into our built spaces, we create places that promote emotional and physical vibrancy, harmony in our relationships with others, and our own ability to go out into the world and create a life that is uniquely ours – one that is full of joy, brightness, inspiration and creativity, one that fuels us at our core to be the best version of ourselves that we can possibly be. This is the true power of Feng Shui. Hopefully, this information has piqued your interest, and you are open to using this ancient healing science to enhance the quality of your life. It has dramatically changed the lives of so many all over the world, which is why it is still relevant after all these thousands of years.

DermaClear brings comforting relief to sufferers of many skin irritations. The cooling and soothing calcium mortmorillonite/ calcium bentonite clay has been proven to be effective against: • SHINGLES • PSORIASIS • ECZEMA • BURNS • RASHES • JOCK ITCH • STINGS & MORE 4-oz jar $29.99 + ONLY $5 for shipping Order online today at

ShopNaturalAwakenings.com or call: 888-822-0246

natural awakenings

May 2015

that clogs pores, leading to acne and interfering with the skin’s ability to eliminate toxins. The liver has to work extra hard to break down mineral oil, but because it’s a cheap additive, cosmetic and lotion manufacturers use it. Mineral oil is particularly harmful when it’s poorly refined. Then, there’s ammonia, a damaging corrosive toxin that’s primary function is to raise hair’s pH level and open the cuticle, allowing for color to enter the cortex. The more ammonia content in the color product, the higher the hair’s pH will become. However, this blasting open of the cuticle makes re-closing it nearly impossible, resulting in major protein damage. Also, watch out for Sodium Laureth Sulfate, found in almost every shampoo. This ingredient compound helps cleanse and foam, but Laureth goes through an extraction process that creates a cancer-causing by-product. Anything ending in “– eth,” you’ll want to avoid. Instead, look for ingredients with the word “glucose,” like Sodium Lauryl Glucose.

The Dangerous Price of Beauty: an Incriminating Look at Hair & Skin Care Chemicals

by Mary-Elizabeth Schurrer

ave you ever scanned the labels of your favorite shampoo, conditioner or facial cleanser and wondered if those cryptic, difficult-to-pronounce ingredients are actually safe for your body? That’s the exact question which prompted Angela Powers – owner of the Sarasota-based eco-friendly Angela’s Pure Salon & Spa – to investigate what pollutants or artificial additives might be hiding in many commercial cosmetic brands. Through both personal experience and extensive research, Powers has uncovered the truth behind how regular contact with these hazardous chemicals can lead to persistent – even terminal – illness. In the following interview, she sheds scrupulous light on why you should think twice before applying generic hair or skin products, and trust the Certified Organic Seal instead.

Natural Awakenings: Why is the prevalence of harsh chemicals in common personal care products becoming an increasingly serious health concern? Angela Powers: Daily chemical exposure is among the leading causes of chronic disease in America. Many toxic substances – such as parabens – are found in household cleaners, cosmetics, hair and skin products, and artificial hair color. Parabens are chemical preservatives, which can easily penetrate the skin and are suspected of disrupting our endocrine systems. Parabens often mimic estrogen and, therefore, can cause cancer to form in human breast tissue. Another problem is mineral oil, a petroleum by-product 70

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

NA: What types of illnesses are people who regularly use these chemically-enhanced products at a potential risk for? Powers: To begin with, one in five hair stylists experience significant health issues during their careers. Every day, they’re exposed to artificial dyes, formaldehyde-based keratin treatments and other salon products, containing chemicals that are suspected to have adverse effects of the pituitary gland and reproductive organs. The American Journal of Epidemiology concluded that the chance of developing infertility or pregnancy complications triples after working in the cosmetology industry more than five years. Regular exposure to salon chemicals can also increase the risk of cancer, according to The International Agency for Research on Cancer. Contact dermatitis and respiratory issues are common hazards as well, usually caused by using shampoos, conditioners or dyes that are not pH-balanced. In fact, I have personally experienced this. A few years ago, I became chronically ill with an upper respiratory condition and developed severe allergies on my hands that would constantly itch and burn. I’d spend a great deal of time working at a hair salon, and then would get sick with what seemed like a terrible cold. I’d take a couple days off to recuperate, but soon after returning to work, the symptoms would start all over again. I tried several different hair products to fight those symptoms; in fact, I’ve used just about every hair color line there is. I was even afraid I’d have to give up my cosmetology profession. Now, I know that the artificial ammonia and color pigments were making me sick.

NA: In addition to your own health complications, have you witnessed any severe cases of those risk factors you just described? Powers: My son Joey passed away from Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) only five months after his diagnosis – one day short of his seventeenth birthday. He made a reverberating impact on many lives. He was funny, a true gentleman, loved his friends and family and, of course, he was a lady killer!

Joey was also an incredible athlete, who played football in the spring and traveling lacrosse in the summer. However, I believe his cancer was caused by pesticide exposure from rolling around on football fields. That same year, a total of six teenagers died from leukemia – all of them were athletes. It’s a silent pandemic; in fact, more than 10,000 children are diagnosed with cancer each year. The prevalence of leukemia and childhood brain tumors has recently risen by 40-50%, and I think these harmful chemicals are to blame. Chemicals enter the body through inhalation, ingestion and absorption, so students who play sports or people who continually do lawn work have a higher risk of dermal exposure, as skin is the largest organ. Children are also particularly vulnerable to environmental toxins because their brains and bodies are still developing. The National Cancer Institute reports that many pesticides, specifically insecticides, are neurotic to humans and are a contributing factor in numerous diseases in addition to cancer – Alzheimer’s, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s, asthma, obesity, diabetes, birth defects or developmental disorders, endocrine disruption and reproductive issues. Dr. Lee Davis, former advisory to the U.S. Secretary of Health, has also forecast that by 2019, $52 billion will have been used to fund the manufacturing of pesticides and other toxic chemicals. But, if we just reduced the daily spread of environmental carcinogens, we’d save at least 50,000 lives from cancer, annually. It’s important to note that Florida does not have any statewide requirements for posting notification signs about indoor pesticide use, nor are there any laws restricting pesticide use in schools. Manufacturers are not required to list exact ingredients on product labels, so chemicals are often disguised by “trade names.” I believe this negligent attitude toward exposure to potentially fatal substances is why my son became ill. For instance, in 1993, the year Joey was born, we had no idea about preservatives in food or environmental safety. We were a product of society, and that hasn’t changed. People still eat artificial food with GMO, pesticides and synthesized hybrid wheat, which causes inflammation and chronic disease. I know it can feel overwhelming when everything you eat, the air you breathe, and the hair or skin products you use seem to do more harm than good. But, if we all do our part to share information and stay aware, it gets easier. For my part, I want to live in a healthy environment and make the world a safer place. A friend calls me “root soup” because I’ve always been athletic, into healing herbs and aromatherapy, and I read labels before buying any product.

times a week. We would be in the hospital for three or four weeks at a time with complications. That is not uncommon when dealing with pediatric leukemia. The Joey Powers Leukemia Project continues to help families affected by childhood cancer by paying bills such as utilities, car and house payments, insurance, cell phone bills, gas money and other needs for families who are struggling. We were very fortunate to be surrounded with love from our families, friends and very supportive communities, such as Cardinal Mooney High School and the families of Joey’s teammates. It was such a blessing that these communities came together and made us feel like they were going through this tragedy with us. In fact, Joey has left such a lasting impression that the communities still reach out and continue holding many fundraisers in his name to help other families dealing with pediatric leukemia. For example, St. Stephens Episcopal School in Bradenton recently hosted their first “Lax Against Leukemia” tournament, bringing teams from all over the surrounding areas together. Chloe, Joey’s sister, made varsity lax and was able to play in the tournament. It was a very special day! Some upcoming fundraiser events include a Benefit Concert, hosted by Cardinal Mooney High School on April 29 at 7 p.m., featuring instrumental music, a Roast Beef Dinner at Columbus Hall, hosted by The Knights of Columbus on May 1, with cocktails at 6:20 p.m. and dinner at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15, and all proceeds go to the Joey Powers Leukemia Foundation. For more information, you can visit JoeyPowersLeukemiaProject.org.

NA: Finally, can you recommend some natural alternatives to the artificial hair and skin care brands sold on mainstream cosmetic shelves? Powers: If you’re looking for a natural and diverse product for any hair or skin-related need, O’Right brand is great. For example, the Tea Tree line is made with pure Australian tea tree oil and has excellent antibacterial properties, which prevent dandruff and itchiness. The Purple Rose line is designed to provide

NA: I understand you run a charity organization in your son’s memory. Could you expound on its core mission, which causes it supports financially, and what types of fundraisers it sponsors or participates in? Powers: The Joey Powers Leukemia Project was started by my sister, Molly Atwood, to help us with the expenses of going back and forth to the hospital for chemo treatments three natural awakenings

May 2015

Ne Sh w op W , Re Ou eb de r Sto sign re ed

maximum moisture, leaving both the hair and skin soft, smooth and glossy. These products are superb for repairing split ends, fighting frizz and detangling. Another recommendation would be Kevin Murphy Skincare for Hair line, which is sulfate-, paraben- and crueltyfree. This product contains essential vitamins and amino acids that repair the hair’s outer surface, thickening it and reducing the formation of split ends. Also, built-in moisturizers from mango and murmuru butter smooth and soften the cuticles. It’s like your hair is getting a facial. My favorite products from this line are Anti-Gravity – an organic lavenderbased, oil-free volumizer and texturizer

that produces fuller, thicker hair – and Session Spray – a strong, long-lasting and weightless hold-finisher with hydrolyzed wheat proteins, styling resins, natural fragrance oils and a UV-shield. For color treatment and protection, I use Organic Color Systems, which contain no ammonia, rescorcinol, formaldehyde, p-toluenediamine or any other ingredient banned from use in professional hair color by any government agencies. The main pH adjuster used in minimal concentration is ethanolamine, which is naturally derived from coconuts. This adjuster is then suspended in a soy-based moisturizing gel, infused with oleic acid that comes from pure olive oil. It also contains certified organic

Fall Asleep Safely, Quickly and Naturally! Pleasant Dreams™ contains a blend of safe, natural, sleep-inducing ingredients including chamomile, valerian root and melatonin which may help to: • Facilitate relaxation without morning drowsiness • Maintain sleep all night • Reduce anxiety symptoms • Improve pain tolerance 60 capsules: $34.99 plus $5 shipping Order online today at

ShopNaturalAwakenings.com or call: 888-822-0246

Ne Sh w op W , Re Ou eb de r Sto sign re ed

Consult a healthcare professional before taking this product. Pleasant Dreams is not intended to cure, treat, diagnose or mitigate any disease or other medical conditions. These statements have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

A Few Drops Can Change Your Life! You could feel better, lose weight or increase energy and mental clarity with a few drops of Natural Awakenings DETOXIFIED IODINE daily when used as directed. The replacement of iodine, an essential component of the thyroid, has been reported to give relief from depression, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, radiation, viruses and more. just $19.99 plus $5 shipping

1 bottle = 6-8 week supply • Volume pricing available

Order online today at

ShopNaturalAwakenings.com or call: 888-822-0246

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

Daily chemical exposure is among the leading causes of chronic disease in America. Many toxic substances – such as parabens – are found in household cleaners, cosmetics, hair and skin products, and artificial hair color. chamomile and comfrey, which provide natural soothing from anti-inflammatory properties. This brand is 1005 Ammonia Free, Organic Ingredients Certified, Soil Association Organic Standard, crueltyfree and entirely vegan. I’d also suggest Organic Curl Systems for perming, relaxing and straightening treatments, as well weave winds and root lifts. The product protects against Alkaline damage and works between pH 4.5 and 6.5, – depending on how much activator is added – keeping the hair at its natural optimum isometric pH level. This brand is suitable for all hair types, even damaged cuticles or sensitive scalps. For keratin treatments, I like Kera Green, which is formaldehydefree, free from toxic smoke, won’t irritate the scalp, and seals in both color and highlights. Angela Powers is a licensed esthetician with over two decades of professional experience in the cosmetology industry. She graduated from Aveda Institute in Chicago and owns Angela’s Pure Salon & Spa which specializes in all-natural, environmentally conscious hair and skin care. Location: 3510 N Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 941351-0670 or visit AngelasPureSalon. com. Mary-Elizabeth Schurrer is a writer and copy editor for the Sarasota-Manatee edition of Natural Awakenings. She works as a freelance writer, blogger and social media marketer, based in Southwest FL. Her personal blog, HealthBeAHippie.Wordpress.com, features practical tips for embracing a fit, nutritious and empowered lifestyle.

Welcome to the Crystal Cave By Suzi Harkola

be available for my kids when they started school full time,” she says. “It started as a used book store with just a few crystals, and over the years, the book business changed, so I liquidated the books and expanded the crystals. Crystals have always been my passion.” “I’ve been working with crystals for almost 30 years, having started when my oldest son was a baby. I’m self-taught,” she continues. “I didn’t get a degree in Geology or certification in crystal healing, I taught myself by reading tons of books and experiencing the stones by being with them constantly.” A bit of background: Moen grew up in Massachusetts, lived there for most of her life, but has also lived in California and Minnesota and has traveled the world with her family.

usan Moen is extremely proud of her shop on Fruitville Road in Sarasota. While small in square footage, the place feels expansive, with cabinets, tables and walls filled with gems and treasures of delight. She notes that amethyst and quartz are her best sellers, and other gift items, including jewelry, pendulums, carvings, chimes, sun caters and Tibetan bowls to name just a few, are also in high demand. Moen has plied her trade for 19 years, the past year in Sarasota and 18 years previously in Massachusetts. The warm weather drew her to Sarasota, and she hasn’t looked back. “I knew driving by before we even moved here that the Fruitville space would be my space! It’s a perfect location!” she says enthusiastically. “I love the ambience of Sarasota, and the vibrant metaphysical community. And, of course, THE VORTEX!” Moen defines vortex as “an energetic magnetic pull in an area, and in Sarasota, it’s located at Siesta Key Beach.” She runs the shop on her own, with no additional staff. “I stay in control that way,” she explains, and enjoys being a sole proprietor. Her motivation for opening the store in Massachusetts was familyoriented, actually centered around her children. “19 years ago, I wanted to open my own business so I could always

“I have two wonderful sons with my wonderful husband,” she exudes. “I started my first store in 1995, and have grown the store for 19 years into what it is today in Sarasota, with thousands of mineral specimens and crystals from all over the world. My passion is crystals, and my store reflects that passion. It’s unlike other metaphysical stores, as I mainly carry stones and crystals, rather than the other metaphysical accoutrements found in other stores.” Moen is particular about the items she carries and showcases in the store, handpicking everything. “My sources are from all over,” she says. “Each item is chosen by me, whether I go to the source of they come to me. Handpicking is very important to me.” The Crystal Cave also offers classes, workshops, readings and special events. Classes and workshops encompass

different sessions pertaining to crystals, i.e. crystal healing, pendulum use, crystal gridding, chakras, meditations, sound healing and more topics along those lines. She notes, “I also have an intuitive reader who does psychic readings on an occasional basis, and also special events where friends from Massachusetts come down and offer their different gifts.” Events scheduled for May include a Crystal Healing and Pendulum Class on May 13 from 6 to 8 p.m. ($25 per person), Candace Dalton Spirit Medium on May 20, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. ($50 per person), and Love Circle Exchange ($10 to $20) with Lucia Gabriela on May 26 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. The Crystal Cave is located at 1899B Fruitville Rd., Sarasota. Call 941-3466203 for more information. Hours of operation are, according to Moen, “11ish to 5ish,” Tuesday through Saturday. Moen notes, “The ‘ish’ refers to the fact that my hours are flexible. I’ll stay as late or as long as anyone wants me to stay. Conversely, I might be a ‘titch’ late sometimes, but rarely.”

natural awakenings

May 2015

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

Heartwood Yoga

Change your life as you prepare to change the lives of others Yoga Alliance Registered 200 hour Yoga Teacher Training

Two Flexible Ways to Study 4 Week Summer Intensive: Monday-Friday 9:00-5:00 June 22- July 17, 2015 Weekend Training Intensive (7 weekends): June 19 through August 2 Meetings: Friday, 1:00-9:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday from 9am-6pm

Inspiring environment, dedicated instructors, convenient payment plans available

Courses Held at both Heartwood Retreat Center & our sister facility, ReFlex Arts

941 359-YOGA (9642) | www.ReFlexAr ts.com 17507 Waterline Road | Bradenton, FL 34243

natural awakenings

May 2015

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.

FRIDAY, MAY 1 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 mins/$35; 30 min/ $65; 60 mins/$100; Deep Trance Channel Sessions 50 mins/$150. Elysian Fields, 1273 Tamiami Trail S, Sarasota, 941-3613006, ElysianFieldsOnline.com. Who are the Great White Brotherhood and What are their Messages? – 7-9pm. Willaru Huayta, Inca Spiritual Messenger of the Great White Brotherhood from Peru, initiated by ancient Lemurian Masters to become an Inca Spiritual Messenger for the Aquarian Age. Love Offering. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, CCOSL. com or AlunaJoy.com/elders.html. 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. Rev Patricia Charnley, 941-492-4995, RevPat@AngelMinistriesFL.org, AngelMinistriesFL.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 2 Vinyasa Yoga with Jen Maecker – 9-10:15am. May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30. A vigorous style of yoga, linking breath and movement through a heat-building sequence. $14, $50/5. Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota, 941-952-5280, RosemaryCourt.com. Willaru Huayta’s Journey to Planet Venus – 7-9pm. After 500 years of darkness, the condor of the south met the eagle of the north and signaled the return of light to the planet and the dawn of a golden era. This is the time of the fulfillment of this prophecy. Love Offering. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com or AlunaJoy.com/elders.html.

SUNDAY, MAY 3 Open Heart Divine Healing Service – 12:15pm. The first Sunday of each month. Through the gathering of the Faithful, experience and co-create the Anchoring of Powerful Divine Healing energies within the Sacred Circle. Expect Miracles! Rev Sharon Elizabeth James. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com.

TUESDAY, MAY 5 Alternative to Surgery – 6-7pm. Learn of the new non-surgical options available to heal joints, tendons and muscles using stem cells, as well as Platelet Rich Plasma. Free. Gecko Joint & Spine, 2033 Wood St, # 210, Sarasota. RSVP 941-3308553, GeckoJointandSpine.com. Salt Room Meditation at Fusion – 7-8pm. A guided meditation during the moon cycles surrounded by 1000’s of pounds of salt crystals. Breathe in the dry saline air & expand your experience. $10. Fusion Therapy, 7069 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. RSVP 941-921-7900, FusionTherapy.net.

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

WEDNESDAY, MAY 6 Free Healing Clinic – 4-6:30pm. Our Masters tap into the Divine Source of energy to balance and heal your being. Relax and enjoy this renewing and enlightening experience. Love Donation. Rev Patricia Charnley, 941-492- Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice. 4995, RevPat@AngelMinistriesFL.org, AngelMinistriesFL.org.

THURSDAY, MAY 7 Nature’s Wisdom for Self-Sustainability – 7-9pm. An informative class given by James Wanless, PhD expanding upon Mother Nature and her green way of being the living proof of sustainable wisdom. Seating limited. Prepayment required. $25. Elysian Fields, 1273 Tamiami Trail S, Sarasota, 941-361-3006, ElysianFieldsOnline.com. Spiritual Wake-Up Calls – 6:30-7:30 pm. Introductory discussion about spiritual experiences, past lives, dreams & Soul Travel. Free Spiritual Experiences Guidebook, includes CD. Free, Venice Library, 300 S Nokomis Ave, Venice, 941-358-0325,Meetup. com/EckankarInSarasota.

FRIDAY, MAY 8 Voyager Tarot Readings with James Wanless PhD – 10:30am-5pm. James is one of our most popular guest readers, intuitively reading from his own Voyager Tarot Cards. $75/30 mins; $135/60 mins. Elysian Fields, 1273 Tamiami Trail S, Sarasota, 941-361-3006, ElysianFieldsOnline.com. Introduction to IET – 6:30-8pm. Integrated Energy Therapy (IET) is a hands-on energy healing modality that uses the energy of the Healing Angels to help people “get the issues out of the tissues.” You will learn how to send healing energy to people, places and situations, and so much more! Free. Angel Ministries College, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice. Rev Patricia Charnley, 941-492-4995, RevPat@AngelMinistriesFL.org, AngelMinistriesFL.org. Qi Gong – 7-8pm. Qi Gong opens pathways in the body to circulate & stimulate the body’s internal processes to allow for the smooth flow of Qi (energy), which can increase strength and produce vitality. $10. Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice. Dr Bill Philpott 941 587-1288, RevPat@ AngelMinistriesFL.org, AngelMinistriesFL.org. Introduction to Damanhur Mystery School Program for the Awakened Soul – 7-9pm.Damanhur Ambassador Crotalo Sesamo shares information on this living laboratory, an eco-community in Northern Italy, co-creating the dream of the new Humanity. It is best known for the Subterranean Temples of Humankind, often called the eighth wonder of the world. $10. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941371-9333, CCOSL.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 9 Psychic Fair – 10am-3pm. Are you searching, questioning and seeking answers? Choose from some of the best Intuitive Artists in the area! See what your future holds! Free healing and refreshments. Private Readings $15/15 mins. Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice. Rev Patricia Charnley, 941-492-4995, RevPat@AngelMinistriesFL.org, AngelMinistriesFL.org.

www.nasrq.com

Astral Travel, Level 1 – 10am-6pm May 9; 1-8pm May 10. This experiential course can be taken as a stand-alone workshop. It also serves as the first class of the initiatory journey into the Damanhur Mystery School (TheTemples.org). $250. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com. Voyager Tarot Readings with James Wanless PhD – 10:30am-5pm. James is one of our most popular guest readers, intuitively reading from his own Voyager Tarot Cards. $75/30 mins; $135/60 mins. Elysian Fields, 1273 Tamiami Trail S, Sarasota, 941-361-3006, ElysianFieldsOnline.com.

MONDAY, MAY 11 Feldenkrais Week Celebration – 5:30-8pm. Two hour Awareness through Movement Class. $12. Ionie’s, 1241 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota. Space limited. RSVP 941-360-2248, FeldenkraisInSarasota.com.

TUESDAY, MAY 12 Make Your Home Your Muse – 6:30-8pm. Learn how Feng Shui can be used to transform your homes into powerful tools for inspiration and living your healthiest and happiest life. $30. Bright Life, 2135 Siesta Dr, Sarasota. 941-366-8113, BrightLife-USA.com. Our Personal Connection to God – 6-7 pm. Introductory discussion about spiritual experiences, past lives, dreams & Soul Travel. Free Spiritual Experiences Guidebook, includes CD. Free, Gulf Gate Library, 7112 Curtiss Ave, Sarasota, 941-358-0325, Meetup.com/EckankarInSarasota.

THURSDAY, MAY 14 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 mins/$30; 30 mins/$60. Elysian Fields, 1273 Tamiami Trail S, Sarasota, 941-361-3006, ElysianFieldsOnline.com. Tibetan & Crystal Bowl Concert – 6:30-8pm. Join us for an evening immersed in sound and experience the powerful emotional and physical healing vibrations of the Tibetan & Crystal Bowls. $30. Bright Life, 2135 Siesta Dr, Sarasota. 941366-8113, BrightLife-USA.com. Drum Circle with Nakoma Hawk – 7-8:30pm. An informal drum circle for creating harmony, sharing energies and building community connection through drum rhythms. Pre-registration required. Love offering accepted. Elysian Fields, 1273 Tamiami Trail S, Sarasota, 941-361-3006, ElysianFieldsOnline.com. Feldenkrais: Neuroplasticity – 7-9pm. Feldenkrais, the Man and his Method, as written about by Norman Doidge, MD, in his 2015 book The Brain’s Way of Healing, with Bonnie Kissam, MA. Ionie’s, 1241 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota. 941587-4535, FeldenkraisInSarasota.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 16 AMC Basic Integrated Energy Therapy – 10am-4pm. You will learn to conduct the 5-min empowerment, self-balancing & clearing session; become familiar w/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. Rev Patricia Charnley, 941-492-4995, RevPat@ AngelMinistriesFL.org, AngelMinistriesFL.org. Anatomy during Pregnancy – 3-4:30pm. How to minimize natural anatomical changes to lessen health problems and fetal distress. $70. Upscale Babies, 1735A Fruitville Rd, Sarasota. 941-5528500, UpscaleBabies.com.

savethedate

SATURDAY, MAY 2 & JUNE 6

SUNDAY, MAY 31 & JUNE 7

Gallery Concert Series – 5-7pm. This month, Marcellus Salerni, singer/songwriter/guitarist, will perform original heartfelt music amidst joyful & inspiring art! $10/ Sugg’d Donation. Paste Paper Art Gallery Studio, Towles Court, 1975 Morrill St. 941313-2175, PastePaperArt.com.

Sunday Soul Bowl Beat – 11am-2pm. Tap into your spirit through forming & adorning a bowl. Featuring live acoustic music. Art & Music—what could be better?! $120/2 Sessions. Paste Paper Art Gallery Studio, Towles Court, 1975 Morrill St. 941-313-2175, PastePaperArt.com.

SUNDAY, MAY 17 Nature’s Medicine Cabinet – Noon-1pm. Understand the power of pure essential oils. Gain firsthand experience of the basic oils as well as an understanding of Mother Nature’s wisdom. Free. Unity Church, 3023 Proctor Rd, Sarasota, 941565-2380, PureSimpleNatural.net. 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 mins, followed by light refreshments. Free, AmericInn, 5931 Fruitville Rd (W of I-75), Sarasota, 941-3580325, Meetup.com/EckankarInSarasota.

MONDAY, MAY 18 All Day Feng Shui Workshop – 10am-4pm. Join Kathy Keh, Master Practitioner of Classical Feng Shui, who will demonstrate how to Feng Shui a home by applying formulas to students’ blueprints. $285. Bright Life, 2135 Siesta Dr, Sarasota. 941366-8113, BrightLife-USA.com. 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! $200/2.0 College Credits. Angel Ministries College, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice. Rev Patricia Charnley, 941-492-4995, RevPat@AngelMinistriesFL.org, AngelMinistriesFL.org.

TUESDAY, MAY 19 Alternative to Surgery – 6-7pm. Learn of the new non-surgical options available to heal joints, tendons and muscles using stem cells, as well as Platelet Rich Plasma. Free. Gecko Joint & Spine, 2033 Wood St, # 210, Sarasota. RSVP 941-3308553, GeckoJointandSpine.com.

$5 Suggested Donation. Rising Tide, 5102 Swift Rd, Sarasota. Rev Zan Benham 941-922-7839, Zan@Woman-Spirit.com, Woman-Spirit.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 21 Transform Your Life with Color – 6:30-8pm. Transform your life with Aura-Soma’s powerful energy-based chakra balancing emulsions combining color, flower essences, herbs & crystals. $30. Bright Life, 2135 Siesta Dr, Sarasota. 941-3668113, BrightLife-USA.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 23 Psychic Fair – 10am-3pm. Are you searching, questioning and seeking answers? Choose from some of the best Intuitive Artists in the area! See what your future holds! Free healing and refreshments. Private Readings $15/15 mins. Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice. Rev Patricia Charnley, 941-492-4995, RevPat@AngelMinistriesFL.org, AngelMinistriesFL.org. Shamanic Journey – 2-5:30pm. Similar to guided meditation enhanced by the heartbeat of the large mother drum. Opens inner gateways to sub-conscious and super-conscious, accessing guides, helpers and totems for healing and insights. $20. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. RSVP Rev Zan Benham 941922-7839, Zan@Woman-Spirit.com, ccosl.com.

SUNDAY, MAY 24 Rawfood Potluck – 3-4:30pm. Talk 4:45-5:45pm. Questions 5:45-6:15pm. Guest speaker Steve Meyerowitz, Sproutman, 38 years of sprouting, juicing and growing wheatgrass. Learn how to clean out, lighten up and feel great. $10/Sugg’d Donation. Waldermere Fire Station, Community Rm, 2070 Waldermere St, Sarasota. Info & reservations, Patty Foley 504-875-1362, Patty@OceanGrown.com, Meetup.com/Suncoastlivingnutritionsarasota.

AMC Mediumship 6:30-8:30pm. This third course in the Psychic Development series focuses on acquiring a foundational understanding of the Methodology, Responsibility and Ethics involved when sharing a connection with Spirit. $200/2.0 College Credits. Angel Ministries College, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice. Rev Patricia Charnley, 941492-4995, RevPat@AngelMinistriesFL.org, AngelMinistriesFL.org.

ECK Worship Service – 10-11am. This month: The Purpose of Healing. Join others in exploring how spiritual healing occurs when you invite the Light and Sound of God to come into your heart. Free, AmericInn, 5931 Fruitville Rd (W of I-75), Sarasota, 941-358-0325, Meetup.com/EckankarInSarasota.

Salt Room Meditation at Fusion – 7-8pm. A guided meditation during the moon cycles surrounded by 1000’s of pounds of salt crystals. Breathe in the dry saline air & expand your experience. $10. Fusion Therapy, 7069 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. RSVP 941-921-7900, FusionTherapy.net.

Book Signing, Lecture and Tea – 3pm. Kimberly Braun will be sharing her hero’s journey into the mystery and challenges of meeting her mind and her heart. Tea will be served after the presentation. Elysian Fields, 1273 Tamiami Trail S, Sarasota, 941-361-3006, ElysianFieldsOnline.com.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 20

Introduction Tai Chi Dance / Baby Dragon Workshop – 7-9pm. Master Teacher Cody Flying Eagle Templeton will guide participants in this modern and contemporary style of Tai Chi, an internal dance, focusing on brain waves and

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.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 27

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.

VACATION RENTALS ESCAPE TO THE MOUNTAINS! Lake Tomahawk Vacation Rentals. Quaint Black Mountain, NC. Relax, hike, shop, golf. Fifteen minutes east of Asheville. Hosts: Karen & Danny Leonetti. Call 941-650-0574. Visit VRBO.com/509923, VRBO.com/677540.

the connection found in ultimate move. Easy and fun to learn. $10 Love offering. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333, 941-780-3168, CCOSL. com, MindBodyFitnessForYou.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 28 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 mins/$30; 30 mins/$60. Elysian Fields, 1273 Tamiami Trail S, Sarasota, 941-361-3006, ElysianFieldsOnline.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 30 Advanced Teachings of Spirit Communication – 11am-2pm. Meet and work with your 7 Best Spirit Friends...the Inner Band. Learn how to work with your Doorkeeper, Personal Guide, Protector, Healer, Philosopher, Chemist and Master Teacher. $30. Angel Ministries, 2269 S Tamiami Trl, Venice. Rev Patricia Charnley, 941-492-4995, RevPat@ AngelMinistriesFL.org, AngelMinistriesFL.org. Psychic Saturday Readings and More – 11am4pm. Psychic and Mediumistic Readings, Spirit Artist, Astrology and Numerology Reports, Aura Camera Headshots and more. Something for everyone. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-3719333, CCOSL.com.

SUNDAY, MAY 31 Creating With Crystals – 6-8pm. A fun filled, informative class with Margo Park and Tanya Bartow. A must for anyone serious about using the magical energy of stones daily. Seating limited. Prepayment required. $25. Elysian Fields, 1273 Tamiami Trail S, Sarasota, 941-361-3006, ElysianFieldsOnline.com.

planahead MONDAY, JUNE 8 Feng Shui Certification Course – June 8-14. 9am-5pm. Master Han, an internationally renowned Feng Shui Master & Founder of the Wu Ji Academy in Switzerland, comes to Sarasota to teach Certification Course. $3,600. Bright Life, 941-400-5730, BrightLife-USA.com.

natural awakenings

May 2015

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 – 8:30-9:30am. 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 – 10-11:30am. 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 – 10:3011:30am. A metaphysical universal service with music, talk, 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 941-9227839, Zan@Woman-Spirit.com, CCOSL.com. Sunday Worship Service – 10:30-11:30am. Start your week refreshed. Join CMF for a morning of inspiration, spiritual healing, inspirational talk, special music and spirit messages from guides and loved ones. Love Offering. Center for Metaphysical Fellowship, 2044 Bispham Rd, Sarasota. 941266-8435, CMFSarasota.org. 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.

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

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. Metaphysics and the Bible with Rev Thomas Clarke – 4-5pm. An accreditation class towards a ministerial license towards CMC and/or open to the public at large. Rev Thomas chose an extensive course of study leading to his ordination into the Metaphysical Ministry in 1985. $10. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. 941-371-9333. CCOSL.com.

monday Beach Yoga for Everybody – 8:30am. May-Oct. 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, LovingLightYoga.com. No Nonsense Nutrition – 9-10am. With Eve Prang Plews, LNC, IFMCP. WSLR 96FM, wslr.org. 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. Hatha Yoga with Stephanie Cole – 9:3010:45am. 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, 941952-5280, RosemaryCourt.com. 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. Alternative Health – 10-11am. Alt Mondays. With Eve Prang Plews, LNC, IFMCP. WMNF 88SFM. Call-in line 813-239-9663, wmnf.org. 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. Drop-ins welcome. $15; $88/8. Garden of the Heart Yoga, 2888 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, 941-341-9781, GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com.

www.nasrq.com

Ashtanga Yoga with Liana Bryant – 11:15am12:45pm. Ashtanga Yoga is a physically demanding practice synchronizing breath with movement through a set series of progressive postures to build strength, flexibility, and stamina. $14, $50/5, Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota, 941952-5280, RosemaryCourt.com, LianaYoga.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. Ongoing Class Feldenkrais – 5:45-6:45pm. Awareness Through Movement® classes improve posture, balance, body awareness. Lessons (in chairs/on floor) are designed to quiet non-working habitual patterns, invite you into a process for learning and offer experiences for more efficient movement. $15/class; $50/4 classes, Ionie’s, 1241 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, 941-587-4535, FeldenkraisInSarasota.com. 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. 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. Sai Maa Satsang & Blessing – 1st Mon 7-8:30pm. 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. 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. Sarasota’s Body-Mind Aquatics Swim School’s Lessons – Beginning April 13, holistic swim lessons for ages 6 mos to adult, in healthier waters (low-chemical, hydrogen peroxide, UV light pool). Whole-child, no-tears approach to Survival Safety Swim. Excellent for all learning styles, abilities and those with fear and trauma. Benefit from individualized, small classes of only 3-4 swimmers. Concierge program begins in the summer with premier private and group lessons in YOUR pool with certified instructors. Classes offered 1-5 days per week, Mon-Sat, depending on level and pacing. Spring session: April 13-May 30. Summer session starts: June 1. Body-Mind Aquatics Swim School. Register 941-981-1200, Info@BodyMindSwimming.com, BodyMindAquatics.com.

tuesday Hatha Yoga with Stephanie Cole – 10-11:15am. A creative blend of styles that builds strength and increases flexibility. $14; $50/5. Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota, 941-952-5280, RosemaryCourt.com. Beach Yoga for Everybody – 8:30-9:30am. 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, LovingLightYoga.com. TRX Training Basics – Tues & Thurs 9:15-10am. 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. Dance ‘n’ Tone – 9:30-10:30am. A work out for your mind and body! One hour of low impact exercise and fun in an air-conditioned gym. Optional 1/2 hour of floor work afterwards. $5. Faith Church (corner of Beneva and 12th St), Sarasota. Info, Gail 941-586-3464. 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 – Tues & Thurs Noon-1pm. 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. 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. 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. 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. Iyengar Yoga with Deborah Di Carlo – 6:308pm. Iyengar Yoga is characterized by an emphasis on precision of alignment in the yoga postures, the use of props to help students of all ability levels achieve correct alignment, and an understanding of the therapeutic potential of yoga. $14, $50/5, Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota, 941-952-5280, RosemaryCourt.com.

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. Feldenkrais with Bonnie K – 10:45-11:45am. Awareness Through Movement® classes improve posture, balance, body awareness. Lessons (in chairs/on floor) are designed to quiet non-working habitual patterns, invite you into a process for learning and offer experiences for more efficient movement. $15/class; $50/4 classes, Ionie’s, 1241 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, 941-587-4535, FeldenkraisInSarasota.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. 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.

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.

Free Yoga for Veterans/Military – 3:30-4:30pm. Veterans, military personnel and their family members can attend a free weekly yoga class designed for vets with PTSD, TBI and other combat injuries. Free, Garden of the Heart Yoga, 2888 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, 941-341-9781, GardenOfTheHeartYoga.com.

Zen Meditation – Tues & Thurs 7-8:30pm. 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.

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.

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 – 8:30-9:30am. 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 are gentle & well-supported. $14; $80/8. Yoga Arts, Bradenton. 941-747-9397.

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. Anger Management Class – 6-7pm. Walk-ins welcome. $15. 2803 Fruitville Rd, Ste 149, Sarasota. 941-954-1105, BehaviorManagementServices.net. 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.

natural awakenings

May 2015

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. 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.

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. Mom + Baby Yoga with Liana – 10-10:45am. In this playful practice, moms rebuild core strength and relieve neck and shoulder tension while bonding with their little ones, and create lasting relationships with other moms. $14; $50/5, Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota, 941-9525280, RosemaryCourt.com. Ashtanga Yoga with Liana Bryant – 11:15am12:30pm. Ashtanga Yoga is a physically demanding practice synchronizing breath with movement through a set series of progressive postures to build strength, flexibility and stamina. $14; $50/5, Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota, 941952-5280, RosemaryCourt.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.

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.

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.

Vinyasa Yoga with Ildi Bercak – 6:30-7:45pm. 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, 941-952-5280, RosemaryCourt.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. 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. 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

thursday Beach Yoga for Everybody – 8:30-9:30am. 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.

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

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. Spiritual Blessing & Healing – 3rd Thursday. 7-8:30pm. Uses Sai Maa enlightenment teachings and diksha healing. Free. Central Sarasota. Janice 941-356-5506, Sai-Maa.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. Spiritual Evolution: Awakening the Shaman – 7-9pm. A course designed to infuse, enhance and expand your spiritual growth through ceremony and practical application of meditation techniques, chakra work, chants, all to open and to expand insight & perception. $10. The Cosmic Center, 5041 Ringwood Mdw, Bldg G-2, Sarasota. Rev Zan Benham, 941-922-7839, Zan@woman-spirit.com, CCOSL.com. Group Thetahealing™ Sessions – 7-9pm. A powerful meditation/discussion to heal physical/ emotional issues, clear & replace subconscious programs, + manifesting, soulmates, developing your intuition and more. $20/Drop-in fee. Central Sarasota Location. 406-600-4138, Info@CrystalTheta.com.

www.nasrq.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. Beach Yoga for Everybody – 8:30am. Relax, breathe, stretch & greet the beautiful morning on beautiful Englewood Beach (N end). Loving Light Yoga, 3455 S Access Rd, Englewood, 941-4730135, Lata528@gmail.com, LovingLightYoga.com. 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. 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, 941-244-2006, 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; Free/1st session. Fusion Therapy, Pine Park Centre, 7069 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota. 941921-7900, 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. Hatha Yoga with Stephanie Cole – 10-11:15am. 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, 941-9525280, RosemaryCourt.com.

Book Study & Discussion – 10am-Noon. An ongoing book study group encouraging discussion & group interaction. $10. Unity of Sarasota. 941-9553301. UnityOfSarasota.com. Mindfulness and More – 1-2:30pm. Alive With Yoga, 7513 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota. Charlie Bradt 941-922-5205. 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. Reiki Share – 2nd Friday. 7-9pm. Interested in practicing, receiving or just want to learn more about Reiki? Come and participate in group healing, with guided meditation beginning the evening, followed by Reiki transference. Massage tables are set up and everyone takes turns giving and receiving Reiki, sharing their month’s experiences and discussing the art of healing to enhance their gifts. Donation/Goes to a different charity each month. ReFlex Arts, Heartwood Retreat Center, 6260 N Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota. 941-359-9642, Contact@ReFlexArts.com, ReFlexArts.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, 4748 S Beneva Rd, South parking lot, E of the pond, Sarasota, CentralSarasotaFamersMarket.com. Beach Yoga for Everybody – 8:30-9:30am. 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.

Iyengar Yoga with Deborah Di Carlo – 11am12:30pm. Iyengar Yoga is characterized by an emphasis on precision of alignment in the yoga postures, the use of props to help students of all ability levels achieve correct alignment, and an understanding of the therapeutic potential of yoga. $14, $50/5, Rosemary Court Yoga, 810 Central Ave, Sarasota, 941-952-5280, RosemaryCourt.com.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Publish a Natural Awakenings Magazine in Your Community Share Your Vision and Make a Difference • Meaningful New Career • Low Initial Investment • Proven Business System • Home Based Business • Exceptional Franchise Support & Training

Natural Awakenings recently won the prestigious FBR50 Franchise Satisfaction Award from Franchise Business Review. To learn more visit: franchisebusinessreview.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.

Natural Awakenings publishes in over 95 markets across the U.S. and Puerto Rico • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Huntsville, AL Mobile/Baldwin, AL* Little Rock/Hot Spg., AR* Phoenix, AZ* Tucson, AZ East Bay Area, CA San Diego, CA Denver/Boulder, CO Fairfield County, CT Hartford, CT New Haven/ Middlesex, CT Washington, DC Daytona/Volusia/ Flagler, FL NW FL Emerald Coast Ft. Lauderdale, FL Jacksonville/St. Aug., FL Melbourne/Vero, FL Miami & Florida Keys* Naples/Ft. Myers, FL North Central FL* Orlando, FL* Palm Beach, FL Peace River, FL Sarasota, FL Tampa/St. Pete., FL FL’s Treasure Coast Atlanta, GA Hawaiian Islands Chicago, IL Chicago West. Suburbs Indianapolis, IN

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Baton Rouge, LA Lafayette, LA New Orleans, LA Portland, ME Boston, MA Ann Arbor, MI East Michigan Wayne County, MI Western MI Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN Charlotte, NC Lake Norman, NC* Triangle NC Central NJ Hudson County, NJ Mercer County, NJ Monmouth/Ocean, NJ North NJ North Central NJ South NJ Santa Fe/Abq., NM Las Vegas, NV Albany, NY Buffalo, NY Central NY Long Island, NY Manhattan, NY* Queens, NY Rochester, NY Rockland/Orange, NY Westchester/ Putnam, NY Central OH

• Cincinnati, OH • Toledo, OH • Oklahoma City, OK • Portland, OR* • Bucks/Montgomery Counties, PA • Harrisburg/York, PA • Lancaster, PA • Lehigh Valley, PA • Pocono, PA/ Warren Co., NJ • Scranton/ Wilkes-Barre, PA • Rhode Island • Charleston, SC • Columbia, SC • Grand Strand, SC* • Greenville, SC • Chattanooga, TN • Knoxville, TN* • Memphis, TN • Austin, TX • Dallas Metroplex, TX • Dallas/FW Metro N • SE Texas • San Antonio, TX* • Richmond, VA • VA’s Blue Ridge • Seattle, WA • Madison, WI • Milwaukee, WI • Puerto Rico *Existing magazines for sale

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

natural awakenings

May 2015

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. ANIMAL MEDICAL CENTER

ACUPUNCTURE/ CHINESE MEDICINE

SARASOTA ANIMAL MEDICAL CENTER

CARYN L. YOUNG, DOM, AP, OTR

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.

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

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

APPLIED KINESIOLOGY

COURTNEY F. CONNELL, AP

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.

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.

ACUPUNCTURE FACELIFT

AROMATHERAPY

FACES BY DR ANNA

YOUNG LIVING ESSENTIAL OILS

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

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

ADULT EDUCATION

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

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!

BIO-IDENTICAL HORMONES FAMILY PHARMACY

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)

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

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.

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

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.

BOOKSTORE/GIFT SHOPS BRIGHT LIFE

2135 Siesta Drive, Sarasota 941-366-8113 www.BrightLife-USA.com

Bright Life, an award winning boutique specializing in innovative products that accelerate personal growth and transformation. Offering includes energy based healing products which utilize color, sound, fragrance, and the signatures of flowers, crystals & gemstones, monthly workshops, Aura-Soma & Classical Feng Shui consultations & training. Tue-Fri 11am-5pm, Sat 10am-4pm, closed Sun & Mon

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.

COLON HYDROTHERAPY COLON THERAPY CLINIC

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

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

COUNSELING SARASOTA PSYCHOTHERAPY SERVICES Eva Macaluso, MA, LMHC, BCC 941-363-1039 info@anxietytx.com

Holistic treatment approaches integrating Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Energy Psychology and Mindfulness. Working with the mind and body to alleviate symptoms and learn new ways of approaching life with a greater sense of calmness and less anxiety.

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.

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.

CRYSTAL BOWLS/GIFTS THE OM SHOPPE & SPA

4801 S. Tamiami Tr. Sarasota 941-706-3257 www.theOMshoppe.com

Sarasota’s largest selection of crystal singing bowls, Himalayan salt products, organic essential oils & aromatherapy, ascension crystals, meditation accessories and mindful living gifts.

SPATHECARY 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 Organic Facials, Structural Alignment Massage, Reflexology and Nutritional and Holistic Detoxification counseling.

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.

FELDENKRAIS METHOD® FELDENKRAIS® METHOD

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.

FENG SHUI BRIGHT LIFE AKA FENG SHUI SARASOTA

Kathy Keh, Classical Feng Shui Consultant 2135 Siesta Drive, Sarasota 941-366-8113 www.BrightLife-USA.com

Kathy Keh is a Classical Feng Shui Consultant who specializes in commercial and residential properties, existing and new construction. She also offers Advanced Feng Shui Consultation Certification Training on behalf of the Wu Ji Academy, Europe’s premier teaching institution for Classical Feng Shui Consultants formally recognized by the Chinese Institute of Classical Feng Shui in Beijing, China.

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.

HOLISTIC VETERINARIAN BEAR CREEK VETERINARY ALTERNATIVES 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.

EQUINE SUPPLEMENTS WELLPRIDE

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

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

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.

JIN SHIN JYUTSU® SUNCOAST JIN SHIN JYUTSU

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

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

MANICURE/PEDICURE 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.

natural awakenings

May 2015

MASSAGE THERAPY

NUTRITION

Bich Mai Massage BICH MAI MASSAGE LICENSED NUTRITION COUNSELOR NO MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED

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

Eve Prang Plews, LIC NC333 Full Spectrum Health, Inc. 2106 Bispham Road Sarasota, FL 3 Massages for $100 (regular price $65-75) each 941-952-1200 • M-Fri 9-5, Sat10-2 Customized massage to fit your needs. Specializing in sports • Customized Massage to Fit Your Needs FullSpectrumHealth.com

HOLISTIC HEALTH CLINIC & STORE. Superior Supplements by Xymogen and more. Professional Grade Homeopathics by Newton. • Medical Insurance Accepted Essential Oils by Oil Lady and Wind 941-724-9992 Licensed Massage River Organic Skin Care by Therapist MA 0025928 1219 East Ave, Suite 202, Sarasota, FL 34239 Éminence. RAINDROP TECHNIQUE massage. Available evenings & • Specializing in Sports Massage weekends. client 3 alleviate pain • Works onNew all levels of special athletics-to and prevent injury massages for $100.

CAROL FORREST, LMT cccforrest1@gmail.com 941-266-5771

The Raindrop technique uses the amazing power of essential oils (which are dispensed in small, rain-like drops) to bring the body back into structural and electrical alignment.

THE OM SHOPPE & SPA

4801 S. Tamiami Tr. Sarasota 941-706-3257 www.theOMshoppeandspa.com

OM Energy Day Spa. Om Sound Wave Fusion, Hot Himalayan Salt/ Cold Marble, Steamed Thai Herbal Ball, Four Hand, Chakra Clearing, & Integrated Energy Therapy. Complimentary with all treatments- organic products, color light and sound wave therapy and Amethyst Biomat.

NATURAL FOOD

STARFLOWER ORGANIC SPATHECARY

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

Starflower Organic Spathecary offers an extensive line of superfoods and herbal medicinals with disease protocols. We offer a Holistic Wellness consultation for detoxification, which is a comprehensive multi-organ, totalbody cleansing and natural detoxification program. It includes reducing toxin intake, enhancing toxin elimination, and using specific detoxification herbs and other supportive dietary supplements to strengthen and promote optimum function of the organs. Mon- Fri, 10-5pm Sat 11-4

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.

CAFE EVERGREEN 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.

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

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.

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.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

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.

PSYCHIC MEDIUM REVEREND LOIS CHENEY

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

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

RECONNECTION® THE RECONNECTION® AND RECONNECTIVE HEALING® 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.

SHAMANIC PRACTICES SPIRITUAL COUNSELOR, SHAMANIC AND REIKI PRACTICES 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.

SWIMMING SCHOOLS BODY-MIND AQUATICS SWIM SCHOOL Sarasota, Fl 941-981-1200 info@bodymindswimming.com www.BodyMindAquatics.com

Enjoy Sarasota’s holistic swim school’s healthier hydrogen peroxide pool. NO-TEARS Survival Safety Swim, childpaced, fun, individualized small classes of 3-4. Overcome fears. 6 months-adults. FREE EVALUATIONS.

SKIN CARE SPA DE VRIES

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

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

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

Fresh, food-grade, organic skin care made in small batches, including medicinal - grade essential oils. We specialize in anti-aging for mature skin, rosacea, and acne. Visit our boutique and Spathecary Mon - Fri 105pm and Sat 11-4pm

SPIRITUAL CENTERS CENTER FOR SPIRITUAL LIVING Sarasota

Rev. Karen Wolfson 3145 South Gate Circle (Tuttle@Siesta Dr.) 941-927-6212 CSLSarasota.com

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

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

YOGA COSMIC CENTER OF SPIRITUAL LIGHT 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.

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.

GARDEN OF THE HEART YOGA ECKANKAR

Explore Eckankar at eckankar.org, call 941.358.325 or on Facebook: EckankarInSarasota

Eckankar gives practical ways for people to have real spiritual experiences—even the ultimate experience of God—in this very lifetime.

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 TeacherSufi Order International.

UNITY OF SARASOTA

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.

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.

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 yogaSRQ Yoga too! We’ve 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 wantearly mornings-evenings.Vinyasa Flow Yoga for all levels, Gentle Yoga, Yoga Rx, Donation based Family Yoga, Workshops and Retreats.

natural awakenings

May 2015

FIND THE RIGHT BALANCE In Life and Business

Align with Natural and Health-Minded Customers Seeking: • Acupuncturists • Meditation & Inspirational Music • Organic Food/Farm Markets • Advanced Chiropractic Health • Men’s Natural Products & Services • Recovery Programs • Counseling/Therapy • Natural Healthcare Practitioners • Silent Retreats • Eco-Travel Fun • Natural/Organic Restaurants • Spas & Sports Massage • Fitness/Sports Performance Gyms • Natural Sports Drinks/Aids • Transformational Seminars • Integrative Physicians • Natural Supplements • Wellness Trainers & Coaches • Learning Centers for the Arts • Neurofeedback • Yoga Studios — and many more leading suppliers and providers

Advertise your products and services in Natural Awakenings’ June Healing Addiction & Balanced Man Issue To contact Natural Awakenings Sarasota / Manatee Edition: 941-564-0885 publisher@nasrq.com 86

Sarasota/Manatee Edition

www.nasrq.com

natural awakenings

May 2015

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.