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April 2011
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contact us Publisher Donna L. Konuch Editor Donna L. Konuch Design & Production Susan McCann jaxgraphicdesign.net Advertising Sales For Advertising questions or a Media Kit please send an e-mail to: NATallahassee@yahoo.com Natural Awakenings Tallahassee 3767 Greyfield Dr Tallahassee, Fl 32311 Phone: 850-590-7024 Fax: 850-270-67NA (6762) natallahassee@yahoo.com www.NATallahassee.com www.NaturalAwakeningsMag.com © 2011 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 for 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. SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available for $18 (for 12 issues). Please call 850-590-7024 with credit card information or mail a check, payable to Natural Awakenings–Tallahassee, to the above address.
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tis for loss of consciousness or light-headedness; Cherry Plum for anxiety and fear of losing of control over a situation; Impatiens for impatience and irritability; Rock Rose for terror and panic; and Star of Bethlehem for shock. Flower Remedies are made from spring water that has been imprinted with the vibratory signature of specific flowers corresponding to our various emotions. Since they do not contain any chemical or botanical components, they are safe for the whole family, including pets, and do not interact with medications or interfere with other forms of treatment. Dr. Bach did not intend the flower remedies to replace medical treatment, but rather to address the underlying emotional and spiritual distress that often precedes illness.
A NATURAL SOLUTION
Flowers Rescue!
to
the
By Yarrow Pellbring, BFRP
P
eople love flowers because they are beautiful, and they bring us comfort and joy. Flowers are for first dates and weddings, for sympathy and funerals, but did you know flowers also can balance your emotions? More and more people now trust the essences of flowers to calm the mind and lift their spirits in a new way. They use Bach Flower Remedies and RESCUE Remedy to find relief from every form of emotional distress. Time tested and used in 66 countries worldwide, the Bach Flower Remedies were developed in the 1930’s by the well-respected, successful English physician and homeopath, Dr. Edward Bach. The best-known of the remedies is RESCUE Remedy. The 5-flower emergency blend was formulated by Dr. Bach to be used in sudden stressful situations. The shock of receiving bad news, being involved in or witnessing an accident, anticipating going to the hospital, even taking a test...all of these situations can trigger extreme stress. RESCUE Remedy acts immediately to calm the mind and counteract a negative response to the stressor.
WHAT’S IN IT? The 5 flower remedies in the emergency formula are: Clema-
It’s a stressful world! A simple, natural solution to coping with it is using flower remedies. To prevent stressing out while driving add a dose of RESCUE Remedy to your water bottle. Many golfers, actors and musicians report regular use of RESCUE Remedy to reduce ‘stage fright’. Animals under stress also benefit from RESCUE Remedy and the other flower remedies. They are administered by using 4 drops by mouth, or in a beverage, or rubbed on the lips, wrist or other pulse points, and can be used before, during and after stressful situations. Also helpful on burns, bruises and insect bites, it should be in everyone’s home remedy cabinet, purse, or glove compartment. RESCUE Cream and Gel contain the 5 rescue flowers, plus Crab Apple, the cleansing flower, and are applied topically. They are available at most natural foods and health stores, as well as some grocery stores and online.
HOW DO FLOWER REMEDIES WORK? Flower remedies work by flooding out the negative aspect of an emotion with its positive counterpart. Hatred and envy melt away and the heart opens with love (Holly), fear is replaced with courage (Mimulus), and discouragement with faith and optimism (Gentian). Up to 7 of the 38 flower remedies (the rescue blend counts as 1 remedy) can be combined to create a formula to address complex emotions and states of mind. The formula is modified as emotional states change over time. The mind being the most delicate and sensitive part of the body, shows the onset and the course of disease much more definitely that the body, so that the outlook of the mind is chosen as the guide as to which remedy or remedies are necessary. Take no notice of the disease, think only of the outlook on life of the one in distress. (Dr. Edward Bach 1933). A free download of Dr. Bach’s books and more information about the Bach Flower Remedies, including Registered Practitioners, can be found at the official Bach Foundation website www.bachcentre.com. Yarrow Pellbring is a certified Bach Flower Remedies Practitioner listed on the International Directory of Bach Foundation Registered Practitioners. Yarrow may be contacted at yarrow@bachflowerconsults.com. natural awakenings
April 2011
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letterfromthepublisher
N
ormally, I begin my letters by discussing the theme of a particular month and the wonderful content that we have to share with you related to that theme. However, on March 11, 2011 an earthquake of great magnitude struck the country of Japan, inducing a tsunami of terrible destructive proportions. As of this writing, almost 13,000 people are still unaccounted for and a real threat of radioactive devastation may be occurring in 4 heavily damaged nuclear facilities in northeastern Japan. Our collective hearts go out to the brave and honorable Japanese people, and many of us wonder what can we do to help. In our Newsbrief section this month, there is an article on the contributions made by the Red Cross and the Japanese affiliate, the Japanese Red Cross. Both organizations are working tirelessly to support and give aid where they can. If you are interested in making a contribution towards the Japanese recovery, your donations must signify the Japanese recovery specifically, or your donation will go into the Red Cross general fund. This is just as valid a service, but some people at this time might like their monies to go directly to Japan, and it is important for all those generous, to make that distinction. Another charity you may not be familiar with is one called Socks For Japan. On page 39 of this month’s issue there is an ad and an explanation regarding this unique charity. The hope for that charity is that warm feet from a new pair of socks and a comforting letter from a stranger far away will warm the heart of a brave, displaced person in Japan. Please check out their website at http:// socksforjapan.com. On a more positive note, the winner of the 1st Annual Natural AwakeningsTallahassee Writing Contest is to be announced this month. We received some wonderful entries. As I have stated many times in the past, we are blessed to live in a wonderful community that supports experts in a variety of fields including natural health, environmental activism, alternative therapies and spiritual thought. The entries that we received were on those topics and more. It was very difficult to select a winner this year. Because the theme of the April magazine is about Green Living we are also including two of our contest entries in this month’s issue. Please enjoy the Winning Article submission by Yarrow Pellbring on page 3 and two other great entries that fit with our Green Living/Earth Friendly theme in April, by Michelle Roberts on page 26 and by Reenie Rogers on page 27 Look for more local article entries to be shared with you over the coming months. As I conclude this letter today, I make a wish that we all become inspired by the photo on our cover, of the hand holding the Earth. For it is in our hands to love and support and take care of this planet to the best of our ability. To ask ourselves if the choices that we make as individuals each day benefit us, our community, and our world. This is a beautiful planet filled with wonderful people, let us all work together to keep it that way.
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Blessings,
Donna K.
Tallahassee, S. Georgia, Gulf Coast
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COMING IN MAY
WOMEN’S WELLNESS www.natallahassee.com
contents 17
8 healthbriefs
11 healthykids
14 globalbriefs
15 ecobriefs 17 ecotip 18 greenliving
15 8
24 naturalpet
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.
11 KIDS DIG
WORM COMPOSTING Red Wigglers Turn Kitchen
28
Scraps into Gardening Gold by Jessica Iclisoy
18 ED BEGLEY, JR.’S
28 consciouseating GREEN HOME
MAKEOVER Saving Energy and Cutting
32 fitbody
Waste is a Family Affair
34 events
by Brita Belli
37 ongoing
24 FORBIDDEN
CREATURES
18
Author Peter Laufer Discusses the Dark Side of Exotic Pets
11
by Gail Condrick
28 SALAD LOVERS’ SALADS
Signature Dishes from the Garden or Farmers’ Market by Judith Fertig
32 ECO-WORKOUT Easy Green Tweaks Save Money by Linda LaRue
natural awakenings
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April 2011
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April and Springtime means it’s time for the POPS in the Park event!
S
ave the date for the community event of the season! The Florida Commerce Credit Union/TSO Southwood POPS in the Park arrives early this year on Saturday, April 9th at Southwood’s Central Park Lake. Gates will open at 5:30 PM and the concert will start at 7:00 PM. The TSO Pops in the Park is a magical evening of outdoor music overlooking Central Park Lake. There is no better way to celebrate the arrival of Tallahassee’s glorious spring than by gazing skyward into a clear night while our orchestra serenades you from the stage. Highlights of the season’s event will be a he American Red Cross is assisting Japan just as it has always mobilized to Louis Armstrong Tribute by famed FAMU help other nations after natural disasters. Differing techniques, skills and trumpeter Longineu Parsons and a speorganized volunteers vary among Red Cross organizations depending upon the cial arrangement of “Tallahassee Lassie.” country of origin. The Japanese Red Cross is a highly experienced disaster relief In addition to soft drinks and beer, deliorganization with 2 million volunteers nationwide. Many local volunteers took cious food will be available from the folaction immediately after the earthquake and tsunami disaster by distributing relief lowing vendors: Mac’s Kitchen, Earley’s items, making sure displaced people are offered hot meals, clearing debris and Kitchen, The Wharf Express, Cassie’s, providing medical transportation. Cravings Truck and Marble Slab. The Japanese Red Cross deployed 115 medical teams, made up of more than Admission to the concert is $10/per700 people, including doctors and nurses. These teams provided assistance in son with children under 12 free. Tickaffected areas through mobile medical clinics. ets will be available at the concert, at While it is not the role of the Red Cross in the U.S., the Japanese Red Cross Beethoven & Company and Southwood operates 104 hospitals throughout the country. Sales and Information at Southwood’s Droves of injured people in need of medical help arrived around the clock – Town Center. Tables for 8 are available the wounded arrive on foot, by helicopter or carried by their fellow citizens. for $500 by contacting Laura Figo, TSO In the early days after the disaster, about 550,000 people were evacuated or Operations Director at 224-0461. Spondisplaced. Many evacuated to the approximately 2,500 shelters operated by the sorships, beginning at $1,500 are still government and supported by the Japanese Red Cross. The Japanese Red Cross available, and include great promotional handed out more than 65,000 blankets, and nearly 28,000 more were sent to the and marketing opportunities. affected area for further distribution. Please contact the TSO Office for The Japanese Red Cross specialist helicopter team mobilized to evacuate more information ~ (850) 224-0461. people from rooftops and to assist with the logistics of transporting medicine and food to hospitals. In addition, the Japanese Red Cross offers psychosocial support to affected people. The Japanese Red Cross has 2,400 nurses trained nationwide to give emotional comfort following major emergencies. Natural Awakenings magazine supports the efforts of the Red Cross and is encouraging its readers to donate as they can. The results and destruction of the earthquake and tsunami were tragic enough, but now with the meltdown and radioactive contamination caused by the damaged nuclear facilities our Japanese brethren continue to need care and support. Give what you can.
Help the Red Cross Help Japan
T
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2011 Ochlockonee River Paddlefest Scheduled for April 16th & 17th
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he Keep Tallahassee Leon County Beautiful organization is dedicated to keeping our local community litter free while also educating residents about recycling and the environment. Throughout the year, they conduct various beautification and clean up projects. The event scheduled for this month is the 2011 Ochlockonee River Paddlefest! This event is a series of 4 canoe/ kayak races where participants will have a unique opportunity to experience one of north Florida’s most underappreciated rivers. Saturday’s races include the 8.6mile “short course”, the 12.8-mile “long course”, and the 27-mile Ochlockonee River Marathon. Sunday’s event, the grueling 59-mile Yellow Fly Paddle Challenge, is the longest single-day canoe/kayak race in the Southeast. Whether you are a casual paddler or an experienced canoe/kayak racer, you are sure to find a Paddlefest event that is just right for you. For those who don’t have a boat of their own: The Wilderness Way has generously offered to provide rentals at 50% off. Blue Water Sports will be offering rentals at a special rate, as well as a limited number of on-site rentals at the start/finish of the 2 shorter races. Either store will provide you with the necessary roof-mounting gear and will show you how to secure their boat(s) to your car. Let them know you’re an ORPF participant for the reduced rate, and call (or visit) to work out any details in advance. Don’t wait until the last minute and be left without a boat on race day! All proceeds from the Ochlockonee River Paddlefest benefit Keep Tallahassee - Leon County Beautiful. For more information, check out www. KTLCB.com or www.ochlockonee.com. The Keep Tallahassee Leon County Beautiful organization is a volunteerbased organization that takes personal responsibility toward Tallahassee and Leon County’s environment. They are an affiliate of the award-winning program of Keep America Beautiful!
Ten Thousand Villages Celebrates Earth-Friendly Fair Trade
T
en Thousand Villages, a fair trade retailer committed to environmental responsibility, promotes Earth-friendly products throughout the month of April. New products highlight sustainable materials, including recycled newspaper, glass, and metals. Artisans use recycled and sustainable materials to create the exquisite handcrafted gifts and home décor. One sustainable product example is their Rugged and Ready Bark Cloth Hat. Rugged and useful bark cloth hat gives ready sun protection and a unique handcrafted look. Bark cloth, has been used by Bagandan artisans for more than 600 years to make clothing. Bark cloth is made with the inner bark of the mutuba tree, harvested during the wet season and beaten with wooden mallets to make it soft and give it an even terra cotta color. Bark cloth is a renewable resource. After bark is harvested, the tree is wrapped in banana leaves, and the bark grows back again in three months. Thus it is possible to cut the bark repeatedly. Additional new, environmentally responsible products include their Celebrate the Earth banner, Phoenecian Glass Vase, Recycled Paper coasters and Bullets to Doves earrings. Ten Thousand Villages has been nationally recognized for its commitment to social and environmental responsibility. Ten Thousand Villages received the Co-op America Award for Green Business of the Year in 2005 and the Longtime Leadership Award in 2006. In 2008, 2009 and 2010 Ten Thousand Villages was named one of the “World’s Most Ethical Companies” by the Ethisphere Institute and Forbes Magazine. Ten Thousand Villages offers products from more than 130 artisan groups in 38 countries via a network of more than 390 retail outlets throughout the United States. For more than 60 years, Ten Thousand Villages has established fair, longterm buying relationships in places where skilled artisans lack opportunities for stable income.
natural awakenings
April 2011
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healthbriefs
Pomegranate Juice May Inhibit the Spread of Cancer
T
he exotic red fruit known as pomegranate is making headlines again. Researchers at the University of California, Riverside, have identified components in pomegranate juice that inhibit the movement of cancer cells and the metastasis of prostate cancer to the bone. The researchers attribute this effect to four key ingredients in the pomegranate: phenylpropanoids, hydrobenzoic acids, flavones and conjugated [types of polyunsaturated] fatty acids. “Having identified them, we can now modify cancer-inhibiting components in pomegranate juice to improve their functions and make them more effective in preventing prostate cancer metastasis, leading to more effective drug therapies,” says Manuela Martins-Green, a professor of cell biology at the university. She adds: “Because the genes and proteins involved in the movement of prostate cancer cells are essentially the same as those involved in the movement of other types of cancer cells, the same modified components of the juice could have a much broader impact in cancer treatment.”
Traveling? Pack Probiotics
M
illions of people contract diarrheal diseases every year, and with the summer travel season just around the corner, it’s good to know that probiotics given as therapies for diarrhea can bring fast relief. After reviewing the findings of 63 trials involving a total of 8,014 patients, researchers with the School of Medicine at Swansea University, UK, concluded that taking such probiotics, or “good bacteria,” decisively helps. Results showed that using the probiotics reduced the duration of the illness and lessened the frequency of episodes continuing for more than four days.
FLOORING CENTER
Michelle Roberts (850) 599-2546 1516-B Capital Circle SE
(850) 877-6600
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You stand on it. We stand behind it!!
Tallahassee, S. Georgia, Gulf Coast
www.natallahassee.com
Toxic Food Wrappers
When we buy a packaged prepared meal, we might, be ingesting harmful chemicals leached from the wrapper into our food. University of Toronto scientists have found that chemicals used to coat paper and cardboard food packaging to repel oil, grease and water are capable of migrating into food and contributing to chemical contamination in people’s blood. The researchers focused on perfluorinated carboxylic acids (PFCA), the breakdown products of chemicals used to achieve the nonstick and water- and stainrepellent properties of items that range from food packaging and kitchen pans to clothing. “We suspect that a major source of human PFCA exposure may be the consumption and metabolism of polyfluoroalkyl phosphate esters, or PAPs,” explains Jessica D’eon, a graduate student in the university’s chemistry department. “PAPs are applied as greaseproofing agents to paper food contact packaging such as fast food wrappers and microwave popcorn bags.” PAPs are a source of potential personal chemical contamination that we can easily limit or avoid altogether.
What Hair Reveals About the Heart
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esearchers at the University of Western Ontario are the first to use a biological marker in human hair to provide direct evidence that chronic stress plays an important role in causing heart attacks. In the past, chronic stressors such as job, marital and financial problems, have all been linked to an increased risk for developing cardiovascular disease and heart attack, but until now there hasn’t been a biological marker to measure the major risk factors. “Intuitively, we know stress is not good for you, but it’s not easy to measure,” explains Dr. Gideon Koren, who holds the Ivey Chair in Molecular Toxicology at Western’s Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry. “We know that on average, hair grows one centimeter a month, so if we take a hair sample six centimeters long, we can determine stress levels for six months by measuring the cortisol level in the hair.” Cortisol is widely considered to be the main stress hormone, because stress activates its secretion. Traditionally, it’s been measured in blood serum, urine and saliva, but that only monitors stress at the time of measurement, not over longer periods of time. In the study, hair samples three centimeters long, corresponding to about three months of hair growth, were collected from hospitalized patients who had suffered a heart attack, and then compared with hair samples from other patients. The heart attack patients were found to have significantly higher levels of cortisol in their hair, compared to the control group. This finding provides a new, noninvasive way of testing a patient’s risk.
Second-Hand Lead Alert
T
he sale of used items in the United States is not regulated by any federal agency and consumers should be aware that they might be bringing lead poisoning hazards of past generations back into their homes. When Oregon State University researchers purchased a collection of used items from junk shops and secondhand and antique stores in several states around the country, they found that many of the items contained lead. Representative pieces included salvaged construction elements, antique toys, common drinking glasses and other dishware, jewelry and collectibles.
B12 –The Brain Vitamin
A
new study from the Karolinska Institutet, in Stockholm, Sweden, shows that vitamin B12 may protect against Alzheimer’s disease, adding more evidence to the scientific debate about whether the vitamin is effective in reducing the risk of memory loss. Having too much homocysteine in the blood, the scientists report, has been linked to negative effects on the brain, such as stroke. Now they suggest that higher levels of vitamin B12 can lower homocysteine levels. Source: American Academy of Neurology
Safety Tips for Reusable Bags
While using reusable cloth shopping bags is good for the environment, taking sensible precautions will ensure it is also good for our health. Health Canada (hc-sc.gc.ca) states that with more consumers choosing to carry reusable shopping totes, it is important to employ food safety practices to avoid the risk of cross-contamination and food-borne illness caused by dirty bags. Foods like raw meat, poultry and fish, as well as fresh produce, can contain or carry bacteria, viruses or parasites that cause illnesses. Be sure to wrap fresh or frozen raw meat, poultry or fish in a clear plastic bag first, and then carry them in a separate shopping bag, away from the rest of the family groceries. When reusing cloth or plastic bags, the Canadian agency recommends that we wash them frequently with natural soap and hot water, especially after carrying fresh produce or meats. After cleaning the bag, allow it to dry completely before storing it. This prevents mold from growing inside the bag. Finally, if a bag gets too soiled or stains cannot be removed, it’s better to part with it than risk getting sick from using it again.
natural awakenings
April 2011
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Florida’s Early Steps Program: Making Every Step Count
E
arly Steps provides early intervention services and support to Florida’s infants and toddlers from birth to 36 months who have a developmental delay or a condition that places them at risk for developmental delay. During the recent economic downturn, Early Steps relied on temporary federal stimulus funding to compensate for program growth and a reduced state budget. Because temporary funding will no longer be available, Early Steps now faces a $12.6 million funding shortfall that could jeopardize its future. We spoke with three Tallahassee families who have gone through the Early Steps program to learn more about their experience with the program and their thoughts on the funding crisis.
The Voss Family At 15 months of age, our son Nicholas was screened for Autism. Shortly after, we received a call informing us that further evaluations were necessary and were told to call our local Early Steps office for help. Through the Early Steps program Nicholas received speech and occupational therapy, additional evaluations and information about necessary support groups. My son is the poster child for early intervention. Early Steps helped him transition into the public preschool program at the age of three, which allowed 10
Tallahassee, S. Georgia, Gulf Coast
him to continue to get the services and therapies he needed through the public school system. He is currently mainstreamed in a regular first grade class at a public elementary school. The earlier a parent can start to facilitate the necessary therapies for their child, the better the outcome for that child. This is why the Early Steps program is so crucial. -Stefanie Voss
The Bogg Family Our son Will was a smiling, happy, typically developing child until around the age of 22 months, when he suddenly stopped talking, laughing and smiling. When we expressed our concerns to our pediatrician, he suggested we “wait and see” and told us, “he’s just a boy, you’re worrying too much.” Unable to shake the feeling that something was wrong, we sought a second opinion through the First Words Project. They said it was possible Will was on the Autism Spectrum and referred us to Early Steps. Early Steps evaluated my son and confirmed he was in fact delayed in multiple areas and provided Will with the appropriate therapies. You frequently hear that state-funded programs are not on par with private programs but in the case of Early Steps, this could not be further from the truth. Will’s Early Steps therapist went above and beyond not only to help our son, but to help us better understand the www.natallahassee.com
nature of his difficulties and what we could do at home to help him live up to his potential. Our story is not unique. Because of our journey I have become active in the disability community and have heard over and over again the powerful impact Early Steps has had on many families’ lives. Everyone, including our policy makers, needs to understand how important early intervention is. Early Steps is an irreplaceable program that can truly change a child’s life. -Jeanne Boggs
The Jackson Family Our oldest son was diagnosed with severe autism at 18 months of age. We were devastated and did not know what to do. After an evaluation through the First Words program, Early Steps set us up with occupational and speech therapies in our home twice a week, at zero cost to us. As we came to find out later, those early years are the most crucial when dealing with a child on the Autism spectrum. I still have a relationship with our therapists and I am grateful for the time and energy they spent with my son to help him get to where he is today. When my second son was 10 months old, he was also evaluated by the Early Steps program. We found out he also had delays and within a short period of time with the program he was gaining ground. Early Steps saved my family emotionally and monetarily. Insurance does not cover most of the needed therapies associated with developmental delays and the out-of-pocket costs can be devastating. Lawmakers should know that this program is vital for the children and families who rely on it. -Mary Jackson To learn more about the Early Steps program funding crisis and how you can help, please visit www.fddc.org/saveearly-steps.
healthykids (worm tea) from the compost and dilute it with water to sprinkle any garden with an extra dose of natural fertilizer. Both will promote strong, healthy plants that are resistant to disease. Our family has maintained a fourlevel worm bin just outside our kitchen door for five years, and for me, the hardest part of getting started was opening the box of wigglers. Now, we have more worm castings and worm tea than I can use, so I routinely pack up the castings into resealable plastic bags, pour the tea into bottles, and use both as muchwelcomed gifts.
KIDS DIG
WORM COMPOSTING
n Newspaper provides cover. Shred or tear old newspapers into strips and place a fluffy layer on top to cover food scraps and discourage flies. Also use paper on the bottom to provide bedding for the worms. n Keep the worm bin moist. Periodic spritzing with a spray bottle or fine mist from the hose will keep wigglers moisturized and on the move. n Worms prefer a vegetarian diet; so don’t add cheese or meat scraps to the compost pile. Do feel free to toss in cereal, grains and rinsed, crushed eggshells. If possible, chop up all vegetable waste prior to adding it to your bin to speed up the composting process. Jessica Iclisoy, the founder of California Baby natural baby care products, writes about natural living and backyard organic gardening in Beverly Hills, CA. She also maintains two worm bins and three composters. Connect at Jessica@ CaliforniaBaby.com.
Red Wigglers Turn Kitchen Scraps into Gardening Gold We are healthy and green And going…..Greener!
by Jessica Iclisoy
Y
our family loves to shop at area farmers’ markets, investigating greens and other veggies to make meals bursting with vitamins and minerals. Yet, it’s not always easy raising children who love to eat the fruits, veggies and salad makings you tote home. So consider mixing in a strategic science lesson—all you need are a few thousand wiggly worm friends to gobble up kitchen scraps; waste that would normally go into the trash and municipal landfill. For kids, worm composting gives food preparation a special mission: The worms must be fed! Worm composting, also known as vermiculture, produces nutrient-rich worm castings. In kid parlance, that’s “worm poop.” This organic matter provides the perfect soil conditioner and organic food for plants, indoors and out. It’s also easy to harvest the liquid
A well-designed worm composter is opaque and has a secure lid and ventilation holes. Peaceful Valley Farm & Garden Supply, in Grass Valley, California, offers both a deluxe bin and inexpensive do-it-yourself worm bin kit at GrowOrganic.com. Or, find step-by-step instructions to build your own at the educational website, RedWormComposting.com, which also lists reputable sources for worms (the pictures alone are enough to juice kids’ interest). Keep these tips in mind for successful composting, indoors or out: n The best worms for composting are red wigglers. According to the Peaceful Valley company, one or two pounds of mature red worms can convert 3.5 to 7 pounds of food scraps into castings in one week.
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April 2011
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THE POWER OF PERMACULTURE Care for People, Sustain the Planet, Share the Surplus by John D. Ivanko
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Permaculture is often considered a societal revolution disguised as gardening. It shows up in urban hamlets, suburban neighborhoods and rural farmyards. Be they large or small, the diverse flora and fauna in these Gardens of Eden gush with life.
T
he ethics of permaculture are simple: Everything revolves around caring for people and the planet, while sharing the surplus. A term coined by Bill Mollison and David Holmgren in the 1970s, permaculture melds the needs of human habitation and horticulture, creating viable integrated designs based on natural ecological systems, in which what’s produced by one element of the system becomes the input for another. “It’s about design and relationships,” explains Bill Wilson, co-founder of Midwest Permaculture, with his wife Becky. “Permaculture is larger than gardening. It’s a creative and artful way of living where people and nature are both preserved and enhanced by thoughtful planning and the careful use of rewww.natallahassee.com
sources. Practices mimic patterns found in nature. Principles reflect a respectful approach to life. Embraced, these attributes create an environment of diversity, stability and resilience, where all may thrive for untold generations.”
Self-Sufficient Systems Permaculture is widely adaptable to suit local climates, soils and geographies, and can scale to any size location that can sustain life. Because nature fosters no waste, permaculture-inspired gardens recycle or reuse all nutrients and energy sources; this approach regenerates natural systems, while boosting the self-sufficiency of human settlements and reducing the need for industrial production systems that rely on polluting energy sources.
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Lifestyle & Teacher Training at YOP With Valerie Baltzer, ERYT500
Courtesy of John D. Ivanko
Plants are selected and planted according to the way they help one another. Animals also play key roles in garden sustainability. Free-range chickens, for example, can help fertilize and work up the soil and control insect pests, while providing nutrient-packed eggs; humans, meanwhile, provide shelter, security, a water source and supplemental food. Surplus produced in these gardens is freely shared. “Many permaculturists are concerned about their relationships with others—all others—and the planet,” continues Wilson. “We believe that it is possible to redesign our lives to provide an abundance of food, fiber, energy and shelter for every person on this planet, while dramatically improving overall quality of life.” He notes that only 20 percent of the permaculture process is about growing food. “Permaculture is the big picture,” agrees Heather Lanier, who has developed a plan for Hill of the Hawk Farm, in Big Sur, California. “It’s about how relationships are built and how these relationships help care for one another in the circle of life.” At her farm, the staff are transforming abandoned chicken coops into living spaces and artist studios, and planting a forest garden that will provide shade and fresh fruit, while attracting beneficial insects. Chickens and ducks meander around a series of ponds that collect water in preparation for the region’s long dry season.
Permaculture is for any size property, including an apartment, and for any climate... any place.
Two-Week Intensive June 20-July 3, 2011 Advance Your Practice
Just down the road, the Esalen Institute offers educational workshops, which Lanier’s staff have attended. An instructor there also helped complete the permaculture plan for Lanier’s property.
Empower Your Self Learn Correct Alignment Study Yoga Philosophy
Place-Based Living
Make Lifelong Friendships
Permaculture is equally appropriate for the urban and suburban areas where most Americans now live, says Wilson. “It’s for any size property, including an apartment, and for any climate... any place.” He and other permaculture enthusiasts maintain that, “With more and larger settings, together we can have a great positive effect on the total environment.” When it comes to the potential for rural areas, “We can harvest a far greater amount of resources than we do now—water, sun, carbon dioxide and wind—and greatly improve productivity, while improving the overall quality of the region.” However, he quickly clarifies: “One can be very successful in small spaces, too.”
Become Certified to Teach Yoga* or Simply Enhance Your Lifestyle!
John D. Ivanko is the co-author of Rural Renaissance, describing Inn Serendipity’s journey toward sustainability (InnSerendipity.com), based in part on permaculture and onsite generation of wind and solar power.
*Students who wish to become
certified and eligible YogaAlliance Registered teachers (RYT200) will be required to complete additional coursework and submit within 6 months. For more information go to:
www.transcendingyoga.com Call: (229) 343-7268 Email: val@transcendingyoga.com
FREE Information Session & Sample Class April 30th! Yoga On Pine 503 Pine Avenue Albany, GA 31701
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Early Bird Registration Ends March 31, 2011!
natural awakenings
April 2011
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globalbriefs News and resources to inspire concerned citizens to work together in building a healthier, stronger society that benefits all.
Favored Addresses
Walkable Cities Provide Urban Paradise Compact, walkable communities, the opposite of poorly planned sprawl, are the solution to some of our biggest shared challenges, from childhood obesity to social isolation; vehicle crash deaths to disappearing farmland; and costly fuel to the architectural blight of strip development. The concept is also a powerful weapon against climate change, because people naturally replace driving with walking when their basic needs are close to their front door. Such cities also are fun, lively and memorable places of human interaction and inspiration. WalkScore.com ranks the largest 40 U.S. cities and supplies a walkability score for any U.S. residential address, based on density, mixed use, transit, short blocks, public spaces and pedestrian-friendly design. Most important is the number and kinds of destinations (including schools, workplaces, amenities) near each address, which are the strongest indicators of whether people walk. Fortunately, even the least walkable cities generally have some walkable spaces.
Visit WalkScore.com to score any home address and pull up a map of what’s within walking distance.
Easter Eggs
Don’t Pay More for Fraudulent Labels “Unlike beef, chicken and other dairy labels that must be approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, egg labels fall through the cracks,” reports Richard Wood, executive director of Food Animal Concerns Trust (FACT). “This loophole enables egg producers to freely use any language they choose to describe their products, regardless of accuracy.” The resulting consumer confusion is producing healthy, possibly fraudulent, profits, via steep markups. FACT recommends that people know the farmer that supplies their eggs and inquire about hen care. At the grocery, only trust the USDA Certified Organic seal or labels approved by the American Humane Association, Humane Farm Animal Care or Animal Welfare Institute. “Vegetarian fed,” “grass-fed or pastured” and “omega-3 enriched,” while positive, don’t guarantee the quality of animals’ living conditions. According to FACT, terms such as “free-range,” “cage-free” and “natural” may be loosely interpreted and offset by other inhumane practices, unless one knows the producer. Source: FoodAnimalConcerns.org 14
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ecobriefs Sweet Sounds
Green Proclaimed the Next Big Thing in the Music Industry The Green Music Group, an international coalition of musicians, industry leaders and fans, is leveraging its collective power to bring about widespread environmental change within the music industry and around the globe. Primary goals include reducing the music community’s environmental footprint and magnifying support for environmental nonprofits. Founded by Guster band member Adam Gardner and environmentalist Lauren Sullivan, it’s a project of Reverb, an organization that has spread its ecofriendly message on 80 major music tours, to reach 10 million fans in its first six years. Founding members include the Dave Matthews Band, Maroon 5, The Roots, Sheryl Crow, Bonnie Raitt and Willie Nelson. Get with the program at GreenMusicGroup.org.
Cashing In
College Students Annually Repeat Recycling Bonanza When Lisa Heller Boragine discovered that college students moving out of their dorms dump tons of perfectly good stuff that wind up in landfills, she organized her nonprofit Dump & Run. Now, schools across the country are corralling leftover belongings and getting them into the hands of people who will give them a second life. She recently helped Brandeis University, in Waltham, Massachusetts, organize a collection drive and sale that netted more than six tons of items from departing students. Clothing, food and bedding went to local charities. Mini-fridges, desk lamps and plastic storage containers were sold to incoming students, with proceeds benefiting on-campus sustainability efforts. Boston College’s Cleansweep program makes it even easier; students simply leave their excess stuff in their rooms, to be collected by volunteers. Bowdoin College, in Brunswick, Maine, prefers to focus on generating cash for charity via massive yard sales, one of which recently yielded $40,000. “It’s a win-win-win,” remarks Keisha Payson, Bowdoin’s sustainability coordinator. “The housekeepers like it because there is less stuff to deal with; the community likes the great bargains; and students like it because they feel bad about putting stuff in the dumpster.” For information, visit DumpAndRun.org or call 508-579-7188.
Action Alert
Science Solves Mystery of Bee Colony Collapse Bees are dying off in developed Western countries, putting 90 percent of U.S. crops in peril. Multiple scientific studies now blame one group of agricultural toxins—neonicotinoid pesticides—as a major contributor to their rapid demise, and bee populations have recovered in the four European countries that have banned these products. But Bayer still sells this deadly poison here, even though the Environmental Protection Agency has recognized, in a leaked document, that Bayer’s “highly toxic” product is a “major risk concern to non-target insects [honey bees].” In 2009, Italy’s new, neonicotinoid-free corn sowing resulted in no cases of widespread bee mortality in apiaries around the crops, a first since 1999. Italy, France, Slovenia and Germany, where Bayer’s main manufacturing plant is located, have all banned neonicotinoids with good results. It’s up to U.S. citizens to convince the government not to heed the powerful chemical lobby, but to defend the bees and the country’s food supply by calling for a national ban now. Build a buzz today. Sign the emergency petition at Secure.Avaaz.org/ en/save_the_bees_usa/?vl.
Source: The Christian Science Monitor natural awakenings
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ecobriefs Stirring Giants
Earth Care
Women’s Leadership for a Green Economy Earth Day Network’s new campaign, Women and Green Economy (WAGE), is engaging female executives in business, government and nongovernmental organizations to take leadership of the emerging global green economy. “Currently, women are not present in very many top international negotiations on climate change and the green economy,” says Earth Day Network President Kathleen Rogers. “We aim to change that equation.” Women such as Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Christiana Figueres, executive secretary of the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change, are among those now leading key efforts in the climate and renewable energy discussion. “It is essential that our most talented and driven women come together to fast-forward the green economy,” says Rogers. With the world’s women making 85 percent of all consumer choices, they are in a commanding position to lead the way to a sustainable world. WAGE creates a road map for women to aggregate their power and promote their leadership in such issues. Earth Day Network’s supporting goals are to help prompt national and international initiatives that will promote the green economy, secure education and job training opportunities for women and channel green investment to benefit women. Learn more and join in via the Programs menu at EarthDay.org.
Paint America Green
New Program Certifies Green Painters New Living, of Houston, has launched the country’s first training program to educate painters about workplace health, environmentally sensitive industry practices and long-term protection of indoor air quality for consumers. “Painting has been one of the most toxic and polluting sectors of the construction industry,” says Daniel Wurm, with the nonprofit GreenPainters Australia, which is partnering with New Living to green the industry. “Not only has it led to contamination of water after cleaning up and off-gassing into the atmosphere of poisonous and unhealthy chemicals, but it has also contributed to health issues.” It all starts with consumer demand for the use of lowVOC (volatile organic compound) paints and heat-reflective coatings in homes and offices. Find a local certified green painter at GreenPainters.us or email GetGreen@NewLiving.net.
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Green Homebuilding Progress Report
America’s 10 largest publicly traded homebuilders have started to improve their environmental policies and practices, but much progress remains to be achieved, according to the latest Survey of Sustainable Practices by the Homebuilding Industry, by Calvert Asset Management Co. KB Home, based in Los Angeles, and Pulte Homes, of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, were ranked as the top industry firms. Calvert reports that out of 42 possible green data points, the average total score was just over six points, or 15 percent. Without the top two companies in the mix, the average overall score would have been less than 6 percent. Green building represents a major industry opportunity. “Whereas two years ago, the industry had not yet begun to embrace sustainability as a core part of building design and construction, companies today have taken many meaningful steps toward developing greener and cleaner homes,” says Rebecca Henson, a sustainability analyst at Calvert and co-author of the report. “However, given the environmental impact that homebuilding has, the industry has significantly more progress to make.” Companies are most active in energy efficiency and conservation, paying more attention to sustainability issues that can offer short-term financial benefits to operating costs and customers, such as building material recycling and energy and water efficiency measures. Issues with long-term benefits, such as climate change, are not well addressed. For more information, search Green Homebuilder at Calvert.com. To assess a home’s energy efficiency score, take the quiz at EnergySavvy.com.
ecotip Natural Awakenings Celebrates Earth Day Every Day
$ave Earth
Eco-Driving Pays Big Subtle changes in driving habits can produce significant benefits, saving money at the gas pump and reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Practicing moderate levels of eco-driving typically reduces fuel use by an average of 15 percent. (Maintaining properly inflated tires adds 3 percent more.) Here are best practices for green driving in honor of Earth Day, April 22. Avoid Rapid Starts and Stops – Jackrabbit starts and stops use more fuel. Gentle acceleration and smooth braking, especially around corners, can save $1 per gallon, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), improving fuel economy by up to 33 percent. Keep on Rolling – Slow-and-go is always better than stop-and-go, because maintaining a constant speed in congestion increases fuel economy; it can take 20 percent more fuel to accelerate from a full stop than from 5 miles per hour. Anticipate stops and coast when possible. Ride the Green Wave – Traffic lights are often synchronized so that a motorist driving at a specific speed will pass through many without needing to stop, delivering better fuel efficiency. Limit Air Conditioning – Air conditioning can reduce mileage by as much as 20 percent. When driving below 40 mph, opening windows is best. At over 40 mph, closing windows and using A/C is better, because it avoids aerodynamic drag on the vehicle. Also use the “recycle inside air” feature to capitalize on already cooled air. Maintain Optimum Highway Speed – The EPA estimates that in highway driving, every 5 miles over 60 mph is equivalent to paying 20 cents per gallon extra for gas. Staying below 60 mph can improve mileage by 7 to 23 percent.
Use Cruise Control – Tests conducted by Edmunds.com found that using cruise control to maintain a steady speed during flat highway driving can provide an average of 7 percent in fuel savings (less in hilly terrain). Navigate to Reduce Carbon Dioxide – Planning driving trips, including errands, saves time and increases motor vehicle efficiency. Electronic navigation helps find the shortest route to an unknown destination. Avoid Idling, Even to Warm Up the Engine – According to the Environmental Defense Fund, autos may burn 20 to 70 percent of a gallon of fuel for every hour spent in curbside idling (the equivalent of 0 mpg). For trucks, it’s a full gallon. Unless quickly dropping off or picking up someone, turn the engine off when waiting for more than 10 seconds. It won’t harm the starter. Even on the coldest mornings, engines warm up more effectively during actual driving (but avoid quick acceleration). Don’t step on the gas pedal before starting the car. Keep Your Cool – The interior of a vehicle can reach 120 to 130° F in 10 minutes in summer. Use a heat reflector or window shades to shield the interior from UV rays. Always roll down the windows to release hot air. It’s best to park in a garage or available shade. Obey the Check Engine Light – Today’s sophisticated onboard diagnostics systems continually monitor vehicle operation. When the alert light comes on, it may indicate that emissions have increased and fuel economy is going down, so always check it out. Source: Adapted from EcoDriving USA.com natural awakenings
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Ed Begley, Jr.’s
GREEN HOME
MAKEOVER Saving Energy and Cutting Waste is a Family Affair by Brita Belli
E
d Begley, Jr., widely regarded as America’s most environmentally aware actor—the one by which other green celebrities are measured— has never tired of the years of effort he and his family have made in making their home as green as possible. But this past year, his wife, Rachelle Carson-Begley, had had enough. She isn’t fed up with turning off lights or relying on solar power—she’s just grown weary of the home’s tiny closets and sharing one small bathroom between two adults and a soon-to-beteenage daughter, 11-year-old Hayden. While Rachelle played the disgruntled foil to the over-achieving eco-cop Ed on their former television show, Living with Ed—which aired for three seasons, first on HGTV and then on Planet Green— her problems with their modest 1936 18
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home in Studio City, California, are those to which most homeowners can relate. For example, cramped rooms make entertaining difficult. The home’s 1,600 square feet of main living space (plus an additional 600-square-foot room above the garage) does not easily accommodate the fundraisers the Begleys regularly host; not to mention the camera crews that routinely invaded the family’s day-to-day lives to capture the couple’s good-natured squabbles over everything from composting to conserving water and energy. For seven years, the family even ran a nontoxic cleaning business—Begley’s Best—out of their garage, adding to the mêlée. “Even if it were designed differently, it would be better,” Rachelle explains. “It’s just that it’s a 1936 house. Yes, it’s www.natallahassee.com
efficient, but it would be great to be able to incorporate everything that’s going on now in eco building and be a recipient of all the latest benefits—why not?” So, the Begleys are moving. After years of documenting how to retrofit an older house to maximize use of solar energy for electricity, heating, cooling and hot water, family recycling and rainwater catchment, they are planning to sell their modest abode and build a modern, 3,000-square-foot home a mile away. Ed emphasizes that the move is a major concession on his part. “I made it crystal clear when Rachelle and I were dating: ‘This is the home I plan to be buried in. I will never move.’ And I said it repeatedly from 1993 until about a year and a half ago; now I’m going against that.”
Although the Begleys are trading up, they will continue to set an example by building their new home to green building standards that few homeowners have achieved. They’re going for the platinum; that is, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum standards, the highest rating possible for buildings certified by the U.S. Green Building Council (usgbc.org). This premier LEED designation requires an incredible environmental commitment in every aspect of the building process, from responsible site development, reduced water use and renewable energy utilities to the use of recycled and local materials and indoor air quality control. Of the more than 130 LEED Platinum building projects in California—the state that boasts the most such projects—only about 30 are private homes. Despite his initial protestations, Ed admits that he’s excited about the prospect. If there’s one thing he relishes, it’s a green challenge.
Life with Ed
It’s not easy to live up to Ed’s 30-yearstrong waste-nothing ethos. Although he first made a name for himself as an actor, initially as Dr. Victor Ehrlich on the 1980s TV show St. Elsewhere, followed by his recurring roles in the hit TV series Six Feet Under and Arrested Development, as well as a co-starring role in Woody Allen’s 2009 film Whatever Works, lately he’s become best known as Hollywood’s green guru. He’s the people’s go-to expert on green building and saving energy, authoring the how-to books, Living Like Ed and Ed Begley, Jr.’s Guide to Sustainable Living. Ed is often spotted around Hollywood riding his bike, his preferred mode of travel; on weekdays, he and his daughter ride together to her school, pedaling two miles each way. This down-to-earth, affable man is perhaps eco-conscious to a fault. The success of the show Living with Ed relied in great part on the watchdog antics of Ed catching his wife stuffing vegetable peelings down the garbage disposal, instead of in the compost bin, timing her long showers or opening a running dryer to discover Rachelle’s lone tank top inside. In each case, the chastised Rachelle
vowed to be more eco-conscious, with a raised eyebrow aimed at the camera. “I felt vindicated,” Rachelle says of her reality show adventures. “They [the viewers] were going to side with me.” If there’s any question that Ed’s needling occurs only when the cameras are on, his family members put those doubts to rest. Rachelle describes how her husband insists on keeping the temperature uncomfortably low on cold nights for the sake of saving energy; of turning off her curling iron while it’s warming up if she leaves the room; or switching off the TV if she’s listening to it while getting dressed down the hall. Daughter Hayden’s biggest gripe has to do with TV time. “I love to watch TV for hours on end,” she says. “My dad is very cautious about using power and we have to turn off several different things when we use the TV, like the DVR and its power switch.” But Ed insists that all these little energy-saving strategies add up. While he was willing to recently trade his obsolete 1992 TV set for an HDTV, he knows it’s a major energy hog—and not only when someone’s watching it. “The phantom power can be as high as 100 watts per hour,” he says—that’s the power the TV consumes simply by being plugged in. “But,” he notes, “ if you have put power strips everywhere in the house and you just walk around and click off a few of them, all of that phantom power is turned off. Then,
you can enjoy an appliance like that without using a tremendous amount of energy.” The sun may be an unlimited source of energy, but the solar power stored in their home’s batteries has limitations—and Ed is a vigilant watchdog. With rooftop solar panels providing most of the home’s power, the Begleys remain blissfully unaware when there’s a power outage in the neighborhood. “I only find out about it when I walk to the post office and see the signal flashing to show that power has been restored,” Ed comments. Ed manually switches over to the municipal power grid only when he senses that the stored power capacity in the home’s solar batteries is running low. He foresees that eventually that system will be automated, but for now, he’s happy to keep track. The solar power generated onsite is enough to operate the house and professional TV cameras; it also charges an electric car in the garage—an all-electric 2002 Toyota RAV4 that’s clocked 85,000 miles. For hot water, the family comfortably relies mostly on a simple solar thermal setup—a 4-by-10-foot panel on the roof of black anodized tubing behind a piece of glass. A pump activates when a sensor in the panel senses that it’s hotter than the temperature in the tank. Ed observes: “If you keep things simple, they work well.” Simplicity also keeps maintenance issues at bay. The upkeep required for his solar electric system is minor; he’s committed only to adding water to the batteries every nine months and occasionally getting up to the roof to clean the panels with a brush and a little water.
Embracing the Great Outdoors
One of Ed’s first acts when he purchased his current house in 1988 was to rip up the existing lawn and replace it with native California plants and a fruit and vegetable garden. Unless raising cows or running a golf course, he can’t imagine why anyone would need high-maintenance, water-wasting grass outside their home. But, as with many of Ed’s improvements, energy saving
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tends to trump aesthetics. That’s where Rachelle comes in. “A few years after Rachelle had moved in here, she was telling a friend to meet her at the house,” Ed recalls, “and she said ‘It’s the one on the corner that looks like the Addams Family yard.’ I thought: ‘Oooh, maybe that garden isn’t quite as nice-looking as it used to be.’ It was very drought-tolerant, but it didn’t look good.” With Rachelle’s help, a new landscaper joined the effort of turning the formerly bleak-looking yard into an attractive mix of native plants that includes fragrant rosemary and purpleflowering sage along with broccoli, artichoke, corn and lettuce. Plans for the new family home will allow Ed an expanded capability to harvest rainwater through a large catchment system with an underground tank, so that he can irrigate the gardens without drawing from the municipal water supply— which he characterizes as having, “… our straw dipped into someone else’s drink”—namely, Northern California’s water. “If you’re going to take water from someone else,” Ed advises, “the least you can do is to use it responsibly and not waste it on non-native species.”
Meeting in the Middle
Bringing Rachelle’s aesthetic influence to bear has entailed replacing outdated 20
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living room curtains with attractive and energy-efficient wooden shutters, and finding ways to recycle without having large bins in plain sight. She’s orchestrating the design and layout of the new house—allowing for both entertaining space and larger closets—while Ed focuses on its renewable energy systems—including more unshaded rooftop panels and orienting the building to make the most of natural light. “If we don’t go LEED Platinum, then who will?” Rachelle queries. “That alone is not easy; still, I want to make it look like other houses in the neighborhood. I don’t want a Jetsons’ house; super modern has never been my style. I‘d like to show people that you can have it all, and I’m praying that it’s true.” The Begleys got off to a good start in March by tearing down an existing home on the property they recently purchased—96 percent of which, from cabinets to pipes, will be recycled or reused through Habitat for Humanity. By March 2012, the new house should be finished. They want their LEED Platinum home to serve as a model for people who are building new residences, to show what is possible in achieving real energy efficiency and waste reduction without sacrificing style or comfort. Ed’s aim is to ensure the place produces more energy than it uses. www.natallahassee.com
As before, the whole process will be documented. “I hope that I’ve shown what you can do with a retrofit,” Ed says. “Now I want to show people what you can do from the ground up in 2011 and beyond.” The family’s ongoing focus on green living has made a major impact on Hayden, who accepts environmental consciousness as the norm. “I learned everything from my dad, from composting to solar panels,” Hayden says. “I always teach my friends to turn off the lights more often, take shorter showers, stuff like that.” Her green awareness gives this tween maturity beyond her years. As Rachelle says, “She thinks about things outside of herself. She’s always been conscientious. She’s also really concerned about the planet and very compassionate.” Hayden is proof that a family’s day-to-day environmental commitments can leave a lasting impact that reaches far beyond the immediate family. Brita Belli is the editor of E-The Environmental Magazine and the author of The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Renewable Energy for Your Home. Her next book, due out this fall, explores the relationship of environmental toxins and autism.
Step Two: The Middle Road n Install a programmable thermostat. n Get a Cool-N-Save attachment for household air conditioners—a valve and mister system that activates when the A/C is on to drop temperatures around each unit by as much as 30 degrees (not recommended for mineralized well water). n Add insulation to drafty walls, ceilings, basements and even foundations. n Install new double- or triple-paned windows. n Add blinds or other window treat ments to help retain heat in winter and block it in the summer. n Purchase a new, energy-efficient dishwasher, refrigerator and other appliances.
STEPPING UP HOME ENERGY SAVINGS
n Replace the lawn with drought tolerant grasses or native plants and vegetable/fruit/herb gardens or even an artificial lawn made of recycled rubber and plastic. Step Three: Major Commitments
by Brita Belli
G
reen guru Ed Begley, Jr. likes to break down saving energy and reducing waste at home into doable steps that help us get the most out of our homes, so that we not only learn to live efficiently, but learn to love doing so. The how-to advice in his books comes packed with personal anecdotes and insights; it’s like a friend explaining the basics, as opposed to a know-it-all. Almost any energy-saving journey, Begley notes, begins with a green home audit. The one he had conducted for his home cost $1,000 because it was very thorough; basic audits cost $100 to $175 per hour. But, he’s convinced it was well worth it, because the auditor found many places where Begley could make simple minor adjustments to potentially save hundreds of dollars a year. What’s more, he advises, “A good
green home audit will help you prioritize bigger changes, so you spend your money wisely.” Here’s how to move up the energysaving ladder, one step at a time. Step One: The Low-Hanging Fruit n Switch from incandescent light bulbs to compact fluorescent models. n Turn off lights and fans when leaving a room. n Change air filters. n Take shorter showers.
n Purchase and install a solar hot water system or tankless water heater; at minimum, install a timer to avoid wasteful heating of water 24/7 (a thermal blanket can help, too). n When updating a standard HVAC system, consider the value of switching to a heat pump model. n If building a new residence or looking to upgrade an outdated heating/cooling system (particularly for larger homes), opt for a geother mal heat pump, which uses 25 to 50 percent less energy than a traditional heating and cooling system.
n Turn off the faucet while shaving and brushing teeth.
n Evaluate the home’s solar potential and install solar photovoltaic panels on the roof.
n Plug in power strips and use them to fully turn off electronics when not in use.
n Consider a home’s wind energy potential and install a home wind turbine.
n Recycle everything possible and compost all organic matter, from vegetable cuttings to coffee grounds.
Primary Source: Ed Begley, Jr.’s Guide to Sustainable Living
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The School of Arts & Sciences: Tour of Gardens
T
he inaugural School of Arts & Sciences Tour of Gardens will take place April 16th from 10 am-3 pm & April 17th from 1pm-4 pm. Tickets are available at the School of Arts and Sciences at $25 for a family pass or $15 each. With a focus on sustainability, they have partnered with unique gardens in Tallahassee to showcase various forms
of gardening to ticket holders. The SAS school gardens will anchor the tour and allow the greater Tallahassee community to discover this educational treasure. This promises to be an educational experience for all who take the tour while simultaneously raising money to furnish and stock the school’s currently empty media center. The Tour of Gardens will be ideal for garden and outdoor enthusiasts as well as community members who desire to learn more about the community in which they live. As a fitting beginning to the list of gardens on the tour, there are several beautiful, organic gardens which adorn the campus of the School of Arts and Sciences producing a plethora of vegetables, flowers, and herbs. These gardens are planted and tended by students and provide hands-on lessons in science, math, art, writing, and design. The gardens received a first place award in a state-wide contest of school gardens. Goodwood Museum & Gardens began in 1834 as a corn and cotton plantation, and is now Florida’s finest historic house museum located in the heart of Tallahassee. Features of the grounds include mossy oak-draped lawns, a bulb lawn with thousands of daffodils, hundreds of old garden roses, and the region’s oldest swimming pool. Backyard Playscape was designed by From the Ground Up for the enjoyment of children of all ages, with careful consideration given to aesthetics and green design principles. Rainwater from the roof serves as the source for an old-fashioned pitcher pump; a variety of native and adapted plant species provide habitat for backyard critters; and recycled rubber mulch surrounds the area. A Hidden Garden has been created that’s virtually invisible from the Southwood golf course and community walking trail behind the home. The garden also captures about 50% of the rain water coming off the roof. By collecting the water instead of it entering the city storm water system, the risk of unwanted pollutants entering area lakes is reduced. The Organic Vegetable Garden in the Grassroots Community, was started 21 years ago. The on-site owner will be available to offer advice on making compost, worm castings, building trellises, mulching, crop rotation and garden layout for medium sized home gardens, as well as providing information on organic fertilizers and pesticides. At Turkey Hill Farm vegetables and fruits are grown for market and select local restaurants. In Fall, Winter and Spring you find Lettuces, traditional Southern greens, Asian greens, arugula, carrots, turnips, Brassicas, radishes, scallions, green garlic, turmeric and ginger roots, and Satsumas. Shiitake Mushrooms are grown on oak logs and they have wild Chantrelles in season. They also keep a motley flock of beautiful chickens and sell the great Bear Creek Worm Castings. More information can be found at: http://www. artsandsciences.leon.k12.fl.us.
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A BILLION ACTS OF GREEN:
CELEBRATING EARTH DAY 2011
D
o you believe in the power of the individual to change the world? Earth Day Network’s A Billion Acts of Green campaign aims to harness the power of millions of individuals, businesses and other organizations through pledges to live and act sustainably in specific ways. Acts range from riding a bike instead of driving to retrofitting a workspace to use renewable energy, as well as organizing or participating in an Earth Day event. In all, more than 45 million acts have already been pledged, including largescale initiatives such as community beach cleanups, greening schools and tree planting in 16 countries. The goal is to prompt 1 billion large and small acts by the start of the global 2012 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro. Together, these acts steadily build commitments to measurably reduce carbon emissions and support sustainability. When millions of individuals and groups join in local Earth Day events and vow to follow through on their own pledges to better their environment, the impact can be huge. “People sign the Billion Acts of Green petition with their green actions,” says Earth Day Network President Kathleen Rogers. Local Earth Day events work to get the ball rolling.
Audrey Copeland Independent Consultant
850-294-8575
Audrey.MyArbonne.com
Register your pledge today at EarthDay.org and share word of your green act at any of these local Earth Day 2011 events. natural awakenings
April 2011
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COMING IN MAY
naturalpet
Forbidden Creatures Author Peter Laufer On the Dark Side of “Owning” Exotic Pets
by Gail Condrick
WOMEN’S WELLNESS SPECIAL EDITION Feel good both inside and out Express your natural beauty Celebrate feminine power
For more information about advertising and how you can participate, call
850-270-6762 24
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P
eter Laufer, Ph.D., is full of pythons at a forthe James Wallace mer missile base in the Chair in JournalEverglades. There are ism at the University of legal auctions of exotic Oregon School of Journalanimals from aardvarks ism and Communications, a broadcaster to zebras in Missouri, and sales of black and the author of 12 books. His latest, market chimps on the Internet. Forbidden Creatures, exposes the illegal network of hunters, traders, breedYou have stated that illegal ers and customers who are negatively trading of wild and protected impacting the lives of exotic animals, animals is growing exponenhumans and the environment.
tially; how profitable is this?
Wild animal trafficking profits are estimated by Interpol to be $10 billion to $20 billion a year. It’s the third most lucrative illegal business in the world, trailing only drugs and weapons smuggling. It is easy to accomplish, the risks Many of us like to think that humans are of capture are slim and penalties are the ultimate animal, and that we can minimal. Many amateurs also bring in tame the rest of nature. My research for animals for their own pleasure, based on the book introduced me to an engagtheir personal fascination for the exotic. ing cast of characters, many of who Legal trade fantasized not just about communing in endangered with exotic beasts, but controlling them. animals also exSuch dreams can dissolve into nightists, along with mares in seconds and without warning. trade that skirts Exotic animals are collected and owned the law. It is the by celebrities, criminals and your neigh- illegal wildbors. In fact, there are more captivelife trade that bred tigers in private homes in Texas further threatens than in the wild in India. I found a tiger already in the back of a feed store in Idaho, a endangered specolony of chimpanzees in the countrycies and creates a side south of St. Louis and laundry bags crisis for survival.
In Forbidden Creatures, as you explored people’s fascination with collecting exotic and forbidden animals, what did you find?
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How many exotic animals are there in the United States? No one knows the answer, because there is no census of exotic pets and the legal enforcement issues differ from state to state and by locality. In fact, while we license dogs, we have no overarching law governing exotics, or even a national registry of owners. This remains a great frustration to many people and organizations working for the benefit of the animals.
What can animal lovers do? Education is needed to make conscious choices. Most of the people who collect exotics are ignorant of the longterm impact of owning these animals. The cute and cuddly tiger cub or baby chimp may look like
an entertaining pet now, but what about the future? What will this animal be like in six months or six years? When animals reach their adolescence and full body weight, we must ask: How will they be cared for and what will their lives be like? Chimps and other great apes grow to be stronger than a man, are overtly dangerous and must be corralled. Pythons can grow to 20 feet, endangering other pets and humans. Often, people cannot keep up with the expenses of the food and care, and release the animals to sanctuaries or simply drop them off in the wild. This creates further repercussions for society and the environment. The reality is that exotic pets will not live happily in confinement. There are many terrifying and heartbreaking stories of captive animals attacking and even killing their owners after years of mutual affection. No one knows what makes the wild side emerge to disastrous results.
What should buyers of exotic animals understand? I view our attempts at taming animals as little more than subjugation. That’s understandable if our own survival is at stake. But to subjugate other beings for our amusement diminishes our own self-worth. Animal smuggling exists because there is a market for it. Decisions to purchase or own an exotic animal cannot be made in isolation; every action has an impact upstream. We need to realize that there is an environmental impact of removing creatures from their habitats and teach the benefits of seeing animals in their natural environments. Wild animals do not need us. We should leave other animals alone, and they should remain forbidden creatures. For more information, visit PeterLaufer.com. Connect with Gail Condrick, writer and workshop leader, at GaelaVisions.com.
LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE THERAPY
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April 2011
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Green Flooring
Has Got You Covered
by Michelle Roberts
T
oday’s flooring choices include products that promote a healthy home and a healthy environment. By educating themselves about recycled content, renewable resources and healthy air options, consumers can find stylish and affordable flooring that reflects their belief in whole health and better living. Whether driven by concerns about indoor air quality or responsible manufacturing, there are solutions available for every household and business. Some things to consider when shopping for green or healthy alternatives are the manufacturing process, renewable resources, recycled content, toxicity and product longevity. One example of environmentally sound manufacturing can be found in the hardwood flooring industry. The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certifies manufacturers who source their products from well-managed forests and ensure their wood is not obtained through clear cutting or from ancient forests. Some manufacturers even deal exclusively in reclaimed hardwoods from old buildings or timber from river and lake beds that were lost in transit decades ago. Two popular choices made from renewable resources are bamboo and cork flooring. Bamboo is a member of the 26
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grass family and one of its greatest benefits is the rate at which it can be harvested. While most hardwood species will require 50 to 100 years to grow to saleable size, bamboo reaches maturity on average of 6 years. Cork flooring has been in use for decades and is durable enough for commercial applications. It is the only tree whose bark can regenerate itself after harvest, leaving the tree unharmed. Cork flooring is made from natural granulated cork and non-toxic resin binders. Cork is insulating, sound absorbent, moisture resistant and does not release noxious fumes. More and more products are available with recycled content and many manufacturers are focusing on life cycle impact to capture their products for recycling at the end of use. One flooring choice that has managed to make use of items otherwise discarded is P.E.T carpets (Polyethylene terephthalate). American consumers use and dispose of millions of soft drink containers every day and P.E.T carpets use that same top quality food-grade plastic to produce a polyester fiber that is very stain resistant, fade resistant and a high performance flooring. Carpets manufactured from reclaimed Nylon 6 fiber can be recycled again and again while other fibers can be recycled into plastic lumber for decking, park benches or other outdoor products. Some manufacturers print toll free numbers on the bottom of carpet tiles to collect and recycle them when the carpet is removed from large commercial spaces. Consumers in search of natural products to reduce toxins in their home may be interested in modern wool carpeting. Available since broadloom carpet entered the marketplace, wool carpets have always been known for their beauty and durability. The natural alternative to vinyl flooring is still being made from linseed oil today. When considering installation methods consumers may choose floating floors over glue-down options to reduce irritants from adhesives. Those suffering from allergies should also steer toward hard surfaces or hypo-allergenic pad options for carpeting, especially in bedrooms and areas where they spend most of their time. Carpet cushions with solid film surfaces can reduce mold or mildew by preventing spills from soaking into the pad where it can be trapped under the carpet. One consideration when purchasing a new floor is the longevity or lifetime of the product. Just as environmentallyconscious consumers might purchase high quality classics over cheaply made trendier clothes, they should consider a stain-resistant and long-wearing carpet over a less expensive alternative. By installing hard surfaces in the high traffic areas of their home, homeowners will replace their floors less often and minimize their impact on our areas landfills. With all the choices available to consumers, a knowledgeable salesperson can be your best ally when deciding on the products that are right for you, for your family and for your lifestyle. -Michelle Roberts is a salesperson with ABC Flooring Center. For more information feel free to contact her (850) 599-2546 or email mdaddison@hotmail.com.
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Green Up
Your Drain Cleaning by Reenie Rogers
T
he day may come when a bathroom drain gets clogged. Have you “greened” up your drain cleaning products and methods? Most people know that drain cleaners are especially hazardous because they contain concentrated forms of sodium hydroxide (lye), sodium hypochlorite (bleach), sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, and ammonia. What can be frustrating is that often, after spending good money, and being exposed to such “nasties,” chemical cleaners often do not work. Plus, using these products in our home drains has the potential to add toxins to the local water supply. Even the cleanest of homes can have a slow-draining or clogged bathroom sink. The usual culprits of a clog are hair, oils, dried up soap and other gunk. The solution for this type of clog is a manual technique not a chemical one. Take this tip to your green heart: A Zip It Drain Cleaning Tool does a great job. Full disclosure: I do not own stock in Zip It, but have used it successfully many times for bathroom sinks and tub clogs. The Zip It costs around $3 and is sold at hardware stores, local home improvement stores, big box stores, and online. It is simple to use. The Zip It package has black and white photographs that show exactly how to use it. Here are easy instructions for de-clogging a slow-draining bathroom sink:
2. Insert the thin length of the Zip It, with its thorn-like protrusions, into the drain; it will slide next to the pop-up assembly. Push it as far as will go. Wiggle the Zip It. 3. Draw the Zip It up and out of the drain; you will probably find hair and dark matter in the toothy protrusions. Dip it into the bucket of water; remove the debris. You may have to pull tangled hair off the tool. Don’t worry-- you are wearing gloves! 4. Re-insert the Zip It, at noon, 3:00, 6:00, and 9:00, around the pop-up assembly. If hair is the primary clog reason, the Zip It will be pulling up ropey lengths of it, to which dark grime is attached. Continue dipping the tool in the bucket. 5. After inserting the Zip It 4 to 6 times, turn on the faucet to see if the drain is clear and water is flowing freely down the pipes. If so, take the bucket outside and dump it under a bush and cover it with leaves. Do not pour the bucket water down any drain! 6. If there is still a clog, turn off the water supply, go under the sink and set a bucket under the J shaped pipe, unscrew J trap, and clean that out, since the clog is probably in that location. If this is beginning to sound too complex, call a plumber. There are so many pluses when someone is able to undo a clog themselves. They save money, can unclog the drain with little fuss, can keep safe from exposure to hazardous chemicals, and protect precious local waters. A Zip It makes a great addition to your green cleaning kit, and it makes a great little gift. Try it and enjoy! WARNING: Do not use any nontoxic unclogging method after having used a chemical drain cleaner. Once a chemical is poured down a drain, it must be handled with caution. Call a professional.
Reenie Rogers, M.S., RYT, is a local green living consultant. Reenie gives workshops on green living, trains green 1. Prepare a bucket of warm, sudsy water, and if you have housekeepers, and helps homeowners detoxify their homes any, add 3-4 drops of eucalyptus or some other essential oil to the water. Set the bucket close to the bathroom sink. Wear in order to create a healthy, green home. Contact her at 850.222.8942 or swanworks1@yahoo.com. gloves. natural awakenings
April 2011
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consciouseating
Salad Lovers’
SALADS Signature Dishes from the Garden or Farmers’ Market by Judith Fertig
G
oing green—at least on our plates—has never been easier. Every season, it seems that more varieties of fresh greens are available at farmers’ markets and in selections of nursery plants or seeds for home gardeners. Not so long ago, Americans generally thought of salad as pale iceberg lettuce with high-fat bottled dressing or some mixture of veggies, bound together with mayonnaise. These days, we can choose from among a bounty of tender lettuces and exotic greens, topped with extra virgin olive oils and splashed with colorful creative counterpoints that add zest and yum. Salads today provide a culinary canvas for both the cook and the gardener. A signature salad generally comprises several key ingredients: cool, crisp, fresh and nutritious greens; a fresh-tasting, low-calorie dressing; and bite-sized fruits, nuts, vegetables or cheeses that add flavor, texture and interest. For the greens, tender leaf or Bibb lettuce, crisp Romaine or cabbage, sliced or finely chopped, make the besttasting salads. For the best-tasting dressings, cooks whisk ingredients together in a bowl minutes before serving. We can drizzle them over each salad, serve them in a small pitcher on the side or place the salad in a large bowl, and then toss to incorporate the dressing. Added accents have expanded to include everything from soft fruits such as strawberries and oranges; savory and salty crumbled feta or blue cheeses; or something crunchy, like toasted almonds or walnuts, in addition to ubiquitous garden-fresh vegetables, such as scallions or tomatoes. Adding a healthy hot or cold protein makes a salad even more of a main course. Altogether, in ever-evolving combinations, today’s wide-ranging healthful ingredients can work edible magic.
Nitty Gritty Dirt Farm’s Slaw
Judith Fertig is a freelance writer in Overland Park, KS; see AlfrescoFoodAndLifestyle.blogspot.com.
3. For the dressing, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, honey, ginger, and salt and pepper in a bowl, according to
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When Minnesota’s Nitty Gritty Dirt Farm employees gather for a summer lunch, this crunchy cabbage-based slaw often graces their table. Serves 6 Slaw ½ lb Napa cabbage, cored ½ lb green cabbage, cored 1 bunch red radishes (about 12 medium to large), trimmed ½ lb broccoli, florets separated from stalks ½ bunch green onions, pale and green parts, sliced ¼-inch thick ½ lb green beans, ends trimmed, sliced ¼-inch thick Dressing 1 /3 cup extra virgin olive oil 2-½ Tbsp cider vinegar or more to taste 1 Tbsp honey ¼ tsp ground ginger Kosher or sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 1. Chop cabbages, radishes and broccoli florets into very small pieces. With a knife or vegetable peeler, pare the tough outer layer of the broccoli stalks to reveal the pale core. Chop the cores the same size as the other vegetables. 2. Put all the chopped vegetables in a large bowl and add the green onions and green beans. Toss to mix.
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taste. Add the dressing to the slaw, using just enough to coat the vegetables nicely. Toss well. Let rest at room temperature for about an hour before serving, or cover and refrigerate. The slaw will remain crunchy for at least eight hours. Source: Adapted from Eating Local: The Cookbook Inspired by America’s Farmers, by Sur La Table and Janet Fletcher (AndrewsMcMeel.com).
Strawberry and Feta Salad with Honey-Yogurt Dressing
Gardening blogger Barbara Pleasant counts this as her favorite salad, one that changes with the season. In the spring, strawberries go well with feta. In the fall, pears pair with blue cheese. Serves 2 Honey-Yogurt Dressing 2 Tbsp plain yogurt 2 Tbsp mayonnaise or veggie mayo 1 tsp honey 1 tsp rice vinegar Salt and pepper to taste Salad 2 cups fresh salad greens 1 cup fresh sliced strawberries ½ cup crumbled feta cheese ¼ cup chopped, toasted almonds or walnuts 1. For the dressing, mix the yogurt, mayo, honey and rice vinegar together in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 2. Arrange the greens on two salad plates and top with strawberries and feta. Drizzle with the dressing, sprinkle with chopped nuts and serve. Award-winning garden writer Barbara Pleasant blogs about growing and eating organic food at BarbaraPleasant.com.
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Salad Lovers’
GARDEN TIPS by Barbara Pleasant
I
f you really love salad, you owe it to yourself to try growing your own garden-fresh ingredients. Lettuce is fast and easy to grow, with beautiful colors and textures worthy of a flower garden. Most salad staples grow best in cool weather; so don’t wait for summer to get started. Here are eight tips for a successful salad garden season. Make several small sowings. Lettuce and other salad greens grow quickly and must be picked before they get too old, so try planting about two square feet of space every three weeks, starting in early spring. Take a break during summer’s heat, and then plant more salad greens when the weather cools in late summer. In tropical areas, grow lettuce as a winter crop. Try Bibbs, butterheads and other beauties. Seed racks offer packets of tempting varieties, and all except iceberg types are easy to grow in a garden. Buttercrunch and other Bibb varieties always do well, as do butterheads and leaf lettuces. Choose a mixture of varieties or buy three packets with different leaf colors and textures.
Add water. All leafy greens crave water, and dry conditions can cause lettuce to become bitter. Keep a watering can near the salad bed and water as often as needed to keep the soil constantly moist, but not muddy. Eat thinnings. Lettuce seedlings often appear close together, and a good gardener will pull out excess seedlings to give the plants room to grow. After thinning seedlings to two inches apart, start eating the pulled plants as baby greens. Pick in the morning. Lettuce and other leafy greens are at their best in the morning, after they have had all night to recover from the stresses of the previous day. If it’s not possible to gather greens in the morning, pop a cardboard box over the bed for the day. Protected from hot sun, a salad patch can keep its morning freshness until evening.
Mark boundaries with radishes or scallions. Plant fastsprouting radish seed or green onions from the store to mark the locations of newly sown seeds. The onions will quickly grow new roots and tops; simply pull them as needed in the kitchen.
Grow more when temperatures cool. Salad crops struggle in hot weather, but often thrive in cooler months. In the north, gardeners can use leftover seeds to start up a second delicious salad season in late summer; in the south, they can get an early start on the long winter growing season as soon as summer temperatures abate.
Mix in some spinach. Boost the nutrient content of salads by including spinach in the salad garden. Spinach grows best in rich, fertile soil.
Barbara Pleasant is the author of numerous gardening books, including Starter Vegetable Gardens: 24 No-Fail Plans for Small Organic Gardens. Visit BarbaraPleasant.com.
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Simple, Super-Fast Citrus Salad
When horticulture author Barbara Pleasant’s garden is at its peak, she doesn’t like to slow down. She goes from garden to table in minutes, remarking, “I love this simple and super-fast salad.” Serves 2 Citrus Vinaigrette Dressing 2 Tbsp sesame oil 2 Tbsp orange juice Salt and pepper to taste Salad 2 cups fresh salad greens 1 cup fresh orange, peeled and chopped, or canned mandarin oranges, rinsed and drained ½ cup chopped green onions, including some of the green 1. For the vinaigrette, whisk the sesame oil and orange juice together in a bowl. Season to taste. 2. Arrange the greens on two salad plates and top with orange and scallion. Drizzle with vinaigrette and serve. Award-winning garden writer Barbara Pleasant blogs about growing and eating organic food at BarbaraPleasant.com.
Spinach and Avocado Salad
This fresh-tasting salad features a variety of colors, flavors and textures. Serves 4 1 large ripe avocado, diced 1 Tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice 4 cups baby spinach leaves ½ cup chopped green onions 1 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in halves 1 cup sliced radishes ½ cup bottled low-calorie Italian vinaigrette 1. In a small bowl, coat avocado with lime juice. Set aside. 2. In a large bowl, toss together spinach, green onions, tomatoes, radishes and vinaigrette. Divide evenly onto four plates. Top with avocado pieces. Source: Adapted from 350 Best Salads & Dressings, by George Geary © 2010 Robert Rose Inc. (RobertRose.ca). Excerpted with permission; all rights reserved.
Think left and think right and think low and think high. Oh, the thinks you can think up if only you try!
Theodor Geisel
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2011 EDITORIAL CALENDAR
fitbody
January Health and Wellness February Balance March Natural Foods
April Green Homes & Gardens
May Women’s Wellness
June Men’s Wellness
July Living Simply
August Vibrant Children September Creativity October Green Living, Blue Planet November Local & Personal Economy December Uplifting Humanity
ECO-WORKOUT Easy Green Tweaks Save Money by Linda LaRue
W
e all agree that we need to do a better job of conserving our planet’s limited resources, so why not try these simple suggestions to green your workout routine? These eco-friendly tweaks to what you already may do take little effort and save both time and cash.
rial use. Then, use them to fill smaller, travel-size, reusable bottles.
Curb consumerism. Buy less brandname active wear, expensive running shoes and faddish workout gizmos, which are not quick fixes for proper exercise and diet.
If the weather is fine, walk outside—it’s free. Did you know that of all motorized fitness equipment, treadmills use the most energy?
Recycle water/sports bottles. Buy a reusable water bottle, which is far better for the Earth than any plastic, single-use beverage container (even if you recycle it). Outrageously overpriced sports drinks are unnecessary because you can obtain all the vitamins and minerals you need by eating a sensible diet and taking a daily multivitamin.
Patronize a workout center that’s within walking distance. You’ll not only boost your workouts, you’ll be supporting the local economy while reducing car emissions and potential parking fees.
Use towels made from organic cotton, bamboo or reclaimed fabric. Discount retailers often sell eco-friendly towels made from such natural materials. Bamboo towels are particularly soft, luxuriant and absorbent. Watch for store coupons. Buy recycled and/or natural fitness products. Fitness product manufacturers are beginning to make and promote items using recycled materials.
Use biodegradable body products. Buy biodegradable body wash, shampoo, Choose eco-friendly organic and/ lotion and laundry detergent in large or recycled active wear. Today, there sizes to save money and decrease mate- seems to be an overabundance of green 32
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materials being made into clothing. Time will tell what materials consumers like best, due to price, performance, look and feel. Options include organic cotton and soy fiber blends, seaweed blends and recycled polyester active wear for men and women that can be form-flattering, comfortable and enduring; trend watchers have even spotted a biodegradable athletic running shoe. Try shopping upscale thrift shops. The best days to find great clothes are Mondays and Tuesdays, after folks have dropped off their clothing over the weekend. Thrift shops are a hit-andmiss proposition—you may need to visit them more than once. Buy used workout DVDs. Great quality, popular, used, home workout DVDs are available online and at some thrift facilities and used book stores, often for half-price or less. Core performance guru Linda LaRue is a registered nurse, athletic trainer and creator of Crunchless Abs, and the ecofriendly Core Transformer low-impact, 360° resistance workout. Visit LindaLaRue.com.
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Advertisers – up to 5 free listings. Non-advertisers – $10 each for Calendar of Events listings and $8 each for On-Going Calendar listings. Listings must be emailed to natallahassee@yahoo.com. Classified listings are $1 per word.
Friday, April 1 Art Showcase Trolley First Friday Wine Tasting. 5:30 pm-9:00 pm. FREE! This month’s Wine Tasting will conjure the canals of Venice, hills of grapes, and the awe-inspiring architecture of Rome. Make the Co-op one of your stops on the Trolley to experience the wines of Italy. Look for $1 off coupons in the e-newsletter and in-store. New Leaf Market, 1235 Apalachee Pkwy, 850-942-2557, www.newleafmarket.coop.
classified Thursday, April 7 Food Storage Techniques & Wild Edible of the Month. 7:45 pm-9:00 pm. FREE! Farmer Pam, of Backyard Farm, answers the question, “What is the best way to store food to maintain or create nutritional value, texture and flavor?” Join Pam for this discussion on preserving, drying, refrigerating, freezing, vacuum packing, pickling, and canning. New Leaf Market, 1235 Apalachee Pkwy, 850-9422557, www.newleafmarket.coop.
Christian Mysticism and the Threefold Way to God. 7:30 - 9:00pm. $15 donation. Swami Yogeshwarananda speaks on Christian Mysticism. Unity Eastside, 8551 Buck Lake Rd., Tallahassee.
Healthy Living: Florida’s Chronic Disease SelfManagement Program. 9:30 am – Noon. This six week program will help people learn to live better with on-going health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, heart problems, cancer, or any other chronic disease. There is no cost to attend and healthy snacks will be provided. This program has been proven to improve the quality of your life. Must call to register. 891-4045. Offered by the State of Florida and Tallahassee Memorial Hospital. Tallahassee Senior Center, 1400 N. Monroe St. 891-4000.
Saturday, April 2
Saturday, April 9
An Afternoon in the Cottage and Garden with Carlos Montano 11:30 – 5pm. FREE! Carlos Montano is an Atlanta-based sculptor of exquisite statuary for the garden and home. He is making a rare visit to this area, bringing some of his art, which is available for purchase. To see the art, prices and sizes, go to www.oneheartearthcenter.com. Preorders are possible before March 26, by making a check to Casa Montano, (add 7% sales tax please), and mail to the address of the gathering: One Heart Earth Center, 450 West Madison Street Monticello FL. For information call 850-997-7373.
Organic Plant Sale. Noon–3pm. FREE! “B” O’Toole, owner of O’Toole’s Organic Herb Farm, will be at the Co-op with a selection of her organic plants to enhance your garden and landscape. Plenty of basil and other herbs, eggplant, peppers and some tomato plants will be available for purchase along with organic worm castings and potting soil. New Leaf Market, 1235 Apalachee Pkwy, 850-942-2557, www.newleafmarket.coop.
Monday, April 3 The Mystic Wisdom in the Four Gospels. 1:30 3:00 pm. $15 donation. Swami Yogeshwarananda describes the essence of scriptural teachings in ways we can understand and live by. Unity of Tallahassee, 2850 Unity Lane, Tallahassee.
Tuesday, April 5 Law of Attraction & Relationships. 7:45 pm–9 pm. FREE! Throughout 2011 Pamela Chamberlynn’s monthly Law of Attraction classes (LOA) will focus on using LOA skills to create quality relationships. This will include your internal relationship with spirit and your own unique internal relationships with your subpersonalities, and how these internal relationships show up in your external relationships. New Leaf Market, 1235 Apalachee Pkwy, 850-942-2557, www.newleafmarket.coop.
Wednesday, April 6 Kimchee for Weight Loss. 7:45 pm-9:00 pm. FREE! Kimchee, a pro-biotic pickled vegetable condiment from Korea, can be easily made at home. Kimchee promotes healthy digestion and weight loss. Kimchee is very low in calories, but high in fiber, live enzymes and other nutrients. Learn how to make your own with Whole Foods Educator Jill Welch. Samples will be provided. New Leaf Market, 1235 Apalachee Pkwy, 850-942-2557, www. newleafmarket.coop.
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Homemade Baby Food. 9:30 am–10:45 am. FREE! Mother of two young boys, Angela Meredith has been making baby and toddler food for five years. Homemade baby food is the best way to introduce little ones to solid foods while also saving money and reducing your impact on the environment. This seminar will teach how to make your own baby food using organic produce and other whole foods. Demo and samples will be provided. New Leaf Market, 1235 Apalachee Pkwy, 850-942-2557, www.newleafmarket.coop. Ashtanga - The Eightfold Path of Yoga. 1:30 3:00pm. $15 donation. Swami Yogeshwarananda, a hermit monk from the Himalaya Mountains, speaks on the 8-limbs of Yoga described in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. Namaste Yoga, 1369 East Lafayette St., Tallahassee. Laika Traditional Fire Ceremony and Sacred Circle. 10 am. $40 donation for the non profit One Heart Earth Center expenses. Miesha Larkins of Mystic GA, a pipe carrier and Rainbow Reiki Master, leads in a time of spiritual renewal. Although each circle is unique, all circles contain Native American wisdom, storytelling, pipe ceremony, talking stick sharing. Bring a pot luck vegetarian dish for lunch. Totem animal retrievals and private sessions with Miesha are available by appointment only and for additional donations. RSVP. One Heart Earth Center 450 West Madison Street Monticello, FL, 850 997-7373. Cinderella’s Tea Party. (Hosted by The Tallahassee Ballet) 2pm-4:30pm. Tickets: $20 (children under 18mo-FREE). Children will be invited to participate in a variety of activities including cupcake decorat-
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ROOMMATE/HOUSING Roommate Wanted. Willing to share home for $500 a month. Includes all. Your lifestyle unimportant. Only that you are responsible. Let’s help each other out in these tough times. e-mail to roommate2011@hotmail.com or call Lisa at 224-9634.
CHICKENS AND LIVESTOCK Are you a local organic egg provider? If so, please post your contact information on the Facebook fan page for Natural Awakenings magazine – Tallahassee. People are asking.
PRODUCTS / SERVICES Lose Weight and inches, safely, with the HCG Diet. Dr. Simeon’s protocol - no injections, affordably priced. Some lose 23 pounds in 23 days. Distributors Wanted. www.WeightLost4U.info. / 850-915-7572. Tallylife-Tallahassee’s 1st Local Town Guide featuring the people, places and events of our Capital City. FREE iPhone app - Droid coming soon! Visit www.tallylife.com. Himalayan salt inhalers for sinus and breathing relief. Helps lower inflammation resulting in a healthier you! Call Sherry Simpson PT @ 877-7310.
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES CURRENTLY PUBLISHING Natural Awakenings magazines - For sale in Birmingham, AL; Lexington, KY; Manhattan, NY; North Central, FL; Tulsa, OK; Southwest VA and Volusia/Flagler, FL. Call for details 239-530-1377. ing, magical pumpkin, fairy wand and painting crafts, a live sneak peak at the Cinderella performance, and much more! Families will also enjoy delicious treats and award-winning photographer Dina Ivory will be on hand to take a family keepsake photo. Register for tickets online: www.TallahasseeBallet.org. Location: The Brokaw-McDougall House at 329 North Meridian Street. Sunday of Silence Any time between 7am -3 pm. $20 donation. Relax and renew your being in the stillness of the meditation room or sunporch of the cottage, breathe in the freshness of the newly blooming roses in the gardens, walk the Labyrinth. Gentle Hatha yoga is offered at 10 am led by Joy Moore, and a vegetarian lunch is served and eaten in silence at noon. RSVP. One Heart Earth Center, 450 West Madison Street Monticello FL, 850-997-7373. oneheartearthcenter@embarqmail.com.
Sunday, April 10 Synthesis of Yoga Philosophy and Psychology. 1:00 - 2:30pm. $15 donation. Distilling the essence of Yoga philosophy and psychology, Swami Yogeshwarananda shows us how to apply the ancient teachings in our daily lives. Located at Namaste Yoga, 1369 East Lafayette St., Tallahassee. http://www. swamiyogeshwaranandagiri.blogspot.com/.
Tuesday, April 12 Spring Cleaning Your Liver. 7:45 pm-9:00 pm. FREE! Learn from Naturopathic Doctor and Master Herbalist Wendy Creel the herbs used to cleanse the liver. She will also be discussing a liver and gallbladder flush and the herbs used to treat liver ailments. New Leaf Market, 1235 Apalachee Pkwy, 850-942-2557, www.newleafmarket.coop. Reiki- 10:30 am – Noon Reiki is a way of working with the Universal Life Energy to enhance our own natural healing ability. Join Susie Howell, Usui Reiki Master and Practitioner of 21 years, and her friends. Tallahassee Senior Center Health Suite, 1400 N. Monroe St., 850-891-4000.
Wednesday, April 13 Gathering of Healers. 6:00 to 7:45pm. No fee, donation accepted. Healers, light workers, spiritual counselors, new and seasoned, professional and non-professional join in an open discussion about the transcendence of the wounded healer. In these fast paced times we will talk about what is working and what is challenging in our field of service and why. Facilitated by Astara Summers, located at Crystal Connection on Apalachee Pkwy. Recovery from Mercury/Toxic Exposures. 7:45 pm-9:00 pm. FREE! Bernie Windham, president and research director of DAMS International and president of Florida Health Freedom Coalition, will present current information on the toxicological basis of many chronic diseases. This will include information on sources of toxic and pathological exposures commonly causing chronic health problems in this area, the connection of chronic health problems with dental conditions, and cost effective treatment of chronic health conditions. New Leaf Market, 1235 Apalachee Pkwy, 850-9422557, www.newleafmarket.coop. Telephones for the Hearing Impaired. 10 am – Noon. Even if your hearing loss is minimal, you may qualify for these no-cost phones distributed by Florida Telecommunications Relay, Inc. Tallahassee Senior Center, 1400 N. Monroe St. 891-4000.
Thursday, April 14 Ancient Dietary Secrets for Better Health. 7:45 pm-9:00 pm. FREE! Jill Welch, whole foods educator and owner of The Kitchen Goddess, will present a summary of best dietary practices from many disciplines. She will explain how to balance yin and yang (expansion and contraction) in your diet and lifestyle. Also, how to eat according to the seasons and minimize cravings and imbalances.
Vegan samples provided. New Leaf Market, 1235 Apalachee Pkwy, 850-942-2557, www.newleafmarket.coop.
Saturday, April 16 Kirtan chanting with Om Sweet Om. 7:30-9:30 at 2950 Bayshore Drive in Killearn. Call JoAnna 222-0291 or Shyam 459-1582 for details. Come, and sing to awaken the heart!
Monday, April 18 Eat Healthy, Live Longer. 7:45 pm -9:00 pm. FREE! Eating healthy is not the same as eating foods you don’t like. Whole Foods Chef Sadiqa Williams will show you just how true that is—all you have to do is come to class. New Leaf Market, 1235 Apalachee Pkwy, 850-942-2557, www. newleafmarket.coop
Tuesday, April 19 Make Your Own Sushi. 7:45 pm-8:45 pm. $5 owners, $7 non-owners (Pre-payment required to reserve your spot, limit 12). Join self-taught sushi expert Barry Courtney, as he shares his enthusiasm for the avocado roll. Students will learn how to make sushi rice and practice rolling sushi. Students will sample their creations! New Leaf Market, 1235 Apalachee Pkwy, 850-942-2557, www.newleafmarket.coop
Wednesday, April 20 Getting Rid of Plastics. 7:45 pm-9:00 pm. FREE! Workshop presenter, Reenie Rogers, has been researching, writing, and speaking on simple, affordable ways to live a healthy green life. In this workshop, we will look at reasons to lighten the plastic load, and learn what Beth Terry and Maria Rodale, two leaders in the plastic-free movement, are doing to reduce the amount of plastic in their lives. New Leaf Market, 1235 Apalachee Pkwy, 850-9422557, www.newleafmarket.coop.
Thursday, April 21 An Introduction to Bach Flower Remedies. 7:45 pm-9:00 pm. FREE! This seminar will cover: The history of the Bach Flower Remedies, how they work to improve our everyday lives and an overview of the individual flowers essences. This gentle system does not interfere with any other form of treatment and is safe for the whole family, including pets! For more information, visit the official Bach Flower Remedies website: www.bachcentre.com. New Leaf Market, 1235 Apalachee Pkwy, 850-942-2557, www.newleafmarket.coop
Friday, April 22 Earth Day Organic Lunch. Noon. FREE! Celebrate all that the Earth gives us on the one-year anniversary of the monthly organic lunches and enjoy delicious healthy food: meat-free, wheat-free, dairy-free, sugar-free, pesticide-free. Since all food is donated, this lunch is a fundraiser for the non-profit 501c3 Center, so please be generous in your donations. RSVP by Tuesday, April 19, so we will have enough food for you. One Heart Earth Center 450 West Madison Street Monticello, FL, 850 997-7373. oneheartearthcenter@embarqmail.com. Growing Old Roses Organically. 10am. $10. On Earth Day, stop and smell the roses, learn about roses, and stay for the Organic Lunch at noon. Pamela Greenewald of Angel Gardens in Alachua, Florida is making a special visit to One Heart Earth Center in Monticello. She will teach how to grow roses organically and have gorgeous roses for sale. For more information on the roses, go to www. angelgardens.com. One Heart Earth Center 450 West Madison Street Monticello FL, 850-997-7373. oneheartearthcenter@embarqmail.com.
Monday, April 25 Jung & Archetypes in Cinema & Television. 7:45 pm-9:00 pm. FREE! Movies and television series reflect the movement of archetypal motifs in our society. We are attracted to, or repulsed by, specific characters or shows based on our acceptance or rejection of these archetypal movements. How do we get from Father Knows Best to Everybody Loves Raymond, or from The Wizard of Oz to Avatar? Let’s discuss favorite shows and characters as we connect them to Jungian perspectives. New Leaf Market, 1235 Apalachee Pkwy, 850-942-2557, www. newleafmarket.coop.
Tuesday, April 26 Reiki- 10:30 am – Noon Reiki is a way of working with the Universal Life Energy to enhance our own natural healing ability. Join Susie Howell, Usui Reiki Master and Practitioner of 21 years, and her friends. Tallahassee Senior Center Health Suite, 1400 N. Monroe St., 850-891-4000.
Wednesday, April 27 Diapering 101—Save $$ with Cloth Diapers. 7:45 pm-9:00 pm. FREE! Jen Starks, owner of Ecological Babies, will explain all there is to know about using cloth diapers including how to save $1,000. Awareness of harmful chemicals in skin care products and toys is on the rise, but dioxin, a proven cancer-causing chemical found in dispos-
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April 2011
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TURN YOUR PASSION INTO A BUSINESS... own a Natural Awakenings magazine!
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Within 10 years it will For information about how to publish a Natural Awakenings in your community call
239-530-1377 36
NaturalAwakeningsMag.com
Tallahassee, S. Georgia, Gulf Coast
www.natallahassee.com
be impossible to travel to the North Pole by dog team. There will be too much open water. ~Will Steger
ongoing calendar SUNDAY Unity Eastside Services – 9:30am Meditation Service, 11am Celebration Service and Youth Ministry. 8551 Buck Lake Rd. 850-656-1678, www. transformingourworld.org. Unity of Tallahassee Services – 9:30 & 11am Rev. Bill Williams. Dial-a-Thought 850-562-3766. 2850 Unity Lane, 850-562-5744, www.UnityofTallahassee.org. Pagan Picnic and Red Hills Pagan Council Meeting – 11 am on the second Sunday of each month. Our new location is the Divine Union Spiritual Co-op, 641-B McDonnel Drive in Railroad Square. Come meet local Pagans, Wiccans, Witches, Druids and other Earth worshippers. Bring a potluck dish to share, plates and utensils. Come for the picnic and stay for the RHPC monthly meeting at noon. Tallahassee Buddhist Book Discussion/Meditation Group. 1 to 2pm. Meets every 2nd and 4th Sunday in the Barnes N Noble Cafe in the Tallahassee Mall. Please contact Stacey Turknett for more information stayc1977@yahoo.com or 850-656-7066.
MONDAY Conscious Mastery® Guided Meditations. 6-7pm. $10.00. These inner journeys provide an understanding about who you are, and what you attract. It brings the courage to stand fully in your personal power. Join Astara Summers, Conscious Mastery® Facilitator for these deep and transformative classes. Wear comfortable clothing, bring a journal, a pen and a mat for the floor. Chairs are provided. Location: Crystal Connection on Apalachee Pkwy. Contact at 850-228-9888 or www. ConsciousMastery.org. Yoga to Feel Good. 5:30-7:00pm. This class combines postures with inward focus, conscious breathing and meditative awareness to support us in moving from the periphery of our being to the center. As the process unfolds, tension is released, the body relaxes, the mind calms and the Light within begins to burn a little brighter! $80 for 8 weeks, drop-ins welcome. At the Episcopal Church of the Advent 815 Piedmont Drive. For info: www. lakulishyogatallahassee.com or 222-0291 or email JoAnna joannadevi@earthlink.net. Brain-Body-Memory Balance. 1:30-2:30pm. Low impact, seated exercise. Bring water bottle and wear comfortable clothing. Tallahassee Senior Center, 1400 N. Monroe St. 891-4000. Spiritual Growth/Study Group based on the Edgar Cayce readings. 7pm . Join us or let us help you start your own group. Genevieve Blazek - (850) 893-3269. Chan/Zen Group meets at 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. There are two 20-minute periods of seated meditation punctuated by short periods of either walking meditation or mindful Yoga. Each meeting concludes with a short session of question and answers. If you have no meditation experience, please arrive 20 minutes before the meeting for basic meditation instructions. For more information see us at www.
tallahasseebuddhistcommunity.org/mondayevening. shtml. Located at the Tallahassee Buddhist Community in Railroad Square -- 647 McDonnell Drive.
TUESDAY Healing Arts Alliance Meeting – 7-8:30pm 2nd Tues each month. Educational meeting open to all interested in healing arts. Email SusieHowell333@ comcast.net to get meeting announcements. www. healingartsalliance.org. Men in Unity, Meets at 11:45 am on the second Tuesday of each month at Honey-Baked Ham, on Capital Circle near Mahan Drive. Life Exercise - 9:30–10:30am (also Thurs). Aerobics, light weights, stretching. Tallahassee Senior Center, 1400 N. Monroe St, 850-891-4000. Tallahassee Senior Center, 1400 N. Monroe St. 891-4000. New! Brain-Body-Memory Balance. 10:00 – 11:00 am. Dynamic and fun low-impact exercise that improves memory, strength and balance. Bring water bottle and wear comfortable clothing. Taught by Kathy Gilbert. Optimist Park Community Center, East Indianhead Dr. 891-4009. Intermediate Yoga. 5:30-7:30. Using a book entitled “Dialogue with Death” which tells the story of the Katha Upanishad in a contemporary style easily understood by the modern yogi for inspiration. The first 30 minutes of class is a discussion to understand holistically the path of yoga. Please call or email if interested. Drop-ins are not permitted. At the Sanctuary 2824 Par Lane off Blairstone South. www.lakulishyogatallahassee.com, 222-0291 or email joannadevi@earthlink.net. Seated NIA Yoga (Neuromuscular Intergrative Action). 11:00 am-Noon. Taught by Lori Roberts, certified NIA yoga instructor. Tallahassee Senior Center, 1400 N. Monroe St. 891-4000. Blood Pressure Screenings - 10am-12 Noon (also Wed & Thurs). Tallahassee Senior Center, 1400 N. Monroe St, 850-891-4000. Tallahassee Senior Center. 1400 N. Monroe St. 891-4000.
WEDNESDAY Brain-Body- Memory Balance. 2:00-3:00 pm. Low-impact, seated exercise. Bring water bottle and wear comfortable clothing. Heritage Oaks. 891-4000. Blood Pressure Screenings. 10am-Noon (also Tues & Thurs). Tallahassee Senior Center, 1400 N. Monroe St, 850-891-4000. Blood Glucose Screenings. 10:00 am - Noon. Tallahassee Senior Center, 1400 N. Monroe St, 891-4000. Wednesdays at the Sanctuary, 6:00-7:00pm. $12 per class. Gentle stretches to open the body and deepen the breath followed up by a short guided relaxation/meditation. A perfect addition to the middle of the week to glide smoothly to the finish! Drop-ins welcome. At the Sanctuary 2824 Par Lane off Blairstone South. www lakulishyogatallahassee.com, 222-0291 or email joannadevi@ earthlink.net. Prayer and meditation with Dr. Patty Ball Thomas, L.U.T. Noon. Unity Eastside, 8551 Buck Lake Road, admin@unity-eastside.org 656-1678.
Gentle Yoga with Geralyn Russell. 10:30-11:45 a.m. At Unity Eastside, 8551 Buck Lake Road. For information, please call Geralyn Russell at 878-2843 or email her at yogawithgeralyn@yahoo.com Dropins are welcome.
THURSDAY Life Exercise. 9:30 –10:30am (also Tues). Tallahassee Senior Center, 1400 N. Monroe St, 891-4000. Blood Pressure Screenings. 10am-Noon (also Tues & Wed). Tallahassee Senior Center, 1400 N. Monroe St. 891-4000. Yoga. 5:30-7:00pm. $80 for 8 weeks, drop-ins welcome. In this class we combine postures with inward focus, conscious breathing and meditative awareness to support us in moving from the periphery of our being to the center. As the process unfolds, tension is released, the body relaxes, the mind calms and the Light within begins to burn a little brighter! At the Episcopal Church of the Advent 815 Piedmont Drive. www. lakulishyogatallahassee.com, 2220291 or joannadevi@earthlink.net. Tallahassee Pagan Meetup - Second Thursday of each month at 7 pm. Come meet local Pagans, Wiccans, Witches, Druids and other practitioners of New-Age spirituality and religion! Make friends, share stories and exchange knowledge. For more information check out http://pagan.meetup.com/1296/ or email KrazyPagan@aol.com. Crystal Connection, 1105 Apalachee Parkway.
FRIDAY Chair Yoga: 11 a.m. – Noon, by Certified Yoga Instructors Bridget Kamke. A gentle yoga workout for increased mobility, bladder control, self-esteem, and mental focus. Tallahassee Senior Center, 1400 N. Monroe St. 891-4000. Devotional Chanting and Meditation- 7-9 PM on Second Friday of the month. Enrich your spiritual practice! Join Jeffji in singing easy-to-learn chants from eastern and western traditions. Donations will benefit the church. Unity Eastside, 8551 Buck Lake Road, 656-1678. Drumming Circle. 7-9 p.m. on Third Fridays in the Children’s House behind Unity Eastside’s main building. A willing heart, moving hands and a loving participation is all that’s needed. Some percussion instruments may be provided, but it if you have a drum, please bring it. Contact Mike Smith at msmithdrummerboy37@gmail.com for information. Unity Eastside, 8551 Buck Lake Road, www. unity-eastside.org 656-1678.
SATURDAY Chen Style Tai Chi. 9-10:30am. FREE. Class is suitable for practitioners of all skill levels. www. webdharma.com/taiji. Please email for additional information to: alannah1000@yahoo.com. Located at the Tallahassee Buddhist Community, 647 McDonnell Drive. Tallahassee Farmers Market at Market Square. 8am – 5pm. Year-round. rain or shine. Early Birds get the best selection! The oldest farmers market in Tallahassee. Growers and resellers. Organic and conventionally grown. 1415 Timberlane Rd Tallahassee.
natural awakenings
April 2011
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CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY
healthy solutions, inc. To find out how to advertise in CRG,
email TallaAdvertising@naturalawakeningsmag.com
to request our media kit.
ART CLASSES
LEARN TO DRAW & PAINT LIKE THE MASTERS www.BruceBates.com Bruce@BruceBates.com 850-459-1539
Enhance your natural talents with professional guidance. Receive one-on-one evaluation and instruction in a relaxed group setting. Learn the fundamental techniques used by the masters. Set your own goals; choose your own subjects; advance at your own pace while having fun. First lesson free. Weekly lessons. Class sizes are limited. Call 850-459-1539 for more information.
ART Therapy
Licia Berry, Integrative Artist www.liciaberry.com licia@liciaberry.com (719) 850-1890
An artist and art educator with a passion for Jungian psychology, indigenous values, symbolism and writing (and over 25 years of professional experience), Licia blends visual image, written and spoken word, and healing and intuitive arts in original, unique art that reveal profound truths. Licia offers specialty commissioned collages for Rite of Passage, “Message from Spirit”, Birthday, Midlife, and Initiation into New Cycle (wonderful gifts!), playshops and customized Collage Retreats. With an international following on her Blog, FaceBook and Twitter, Licia’s genuine messages of self love and inner wisdom are gently affirming seekers all over the globe.
coaching
Elizabeth Barbour, M.Ed. The Inspired Entrepreneur Life & Business Coach www.elizabethbarbour.com www.inspiredentrepreneur.com 850-893-5211
Ready to shift FROM TIRED TO INSPIRED in your business and life? Elizabeth helps women entrepreneurs to increase the visibility, credibility and profitability of their businesses while practicing self care at the same time! She offers group coaching, individual coaching and leads retreats around the country.
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Tallahassee, S. Georgia, Gulf Coast
Rick Ferrall, lmt, 850-294-8069 521 E. College Ave., TLH 32301 www.healthy_solutions@comcast.net
CranioSacral Therapy addresses scoliosis, chronic fatigue and MS, infant disorders, learning disabilities, orthopedic problems, emotional difficulties, chronic neck/back pain, stress and tension related problems, TMJ, brain/spinal cord injuries, and cancer issues. MA24604 / MM11960
healing
Healing Path Alice McCall
Advanced Energy Healer & Counselor BS Psychology, MBA, Hypnotherapist www.healingpath.info: 850-585-5496
I offer phone sessions, specializing in healing serious health issues and unwanted patterns. My book ‘Wellness Wisdom’ has little known information on natural health and healing; inspired by my journey with cancer. Free 15 minutes phone consultation to learn how I can help you.
holistic health
NEW GENESIS CENTER Patrice Bullock, MSN, Family Nurse Practitioner-C www.NewGenesisCenter.com 229-228-9050
A healthcare center-Functional medicine, patient-centered approach, non-drug, science-based, results oriented. Getting to the source of your health problems rather than bandaiding. Simple to complex problems. Skin care, digestive problems to the more complex health problems such as Chronic Fatigue, Fibromyalgia, Chemical Sensitivity. Extraordinary results & health transformation. Functional medicine approach consults, hormone testing, detoxification, weight loss, expert skincare consult & prof. treatments, colonics, far-infrared sauna, physical therapy, massage therapy,
HYPNOSIS
DARLENE TREESE, Ph.D.
State Board Licensed 850-201-0073
Diplomate in Sports Counseling, National Institute of Sports Professionals. Past President, American Psychotherapy and Medical Hypnosis Association. e-Therapy and TherapyChat/Office-Based Hypnosis and Life Coaching/Professional Seminar Training www. AskDrTreese.com
healthcare
Integrative Healthcare
N. Elizabeth Markovich, MSN, ARNP 850-878-4434 2016 Delta Blvd. Suite 100 Tallahasee 32308 www.IHCFL.com
We offer primary care, preventive care with a holistic approach. We use special testing with 11 outside laboratories to help find the cause of chronic illness and use a functional medicine approach (www. functionalmedicine.org). We also have hypnosis combined with acupuncture by IB Price MD, massage and cranio-sacral therapy by Angele LaGrave LMT and Nutritional Counseling by Leah Gilbert-Henderson PhD nutrition.Accept Medicare, Blue Cross, Universal, Aetna, others.
FLORIDA WELLNESS CENTER OF TALLAHASSEE 850.385.6664 2339 North Monroe Street (next to Boston Market) www.floridawellnessandrehab.com
At Florida Wellness & Rehabilitation Centers we are committed to keeping up with the latest technologies and treatments to provide our patients with the best rehabilitative experience possible. We believe in educating and encouraging our patients to take an active role in their own treatment.
integrative medicine
Archbold Integrative Medicine Center
John Mansberger, MD, Medical Director. 229-228-7008; 2705 E. Pinetree Blvd. #C, Thomasville, GA 31792.
A holistic team approach to a variety of medical problems. Offering acupuncture, Chinese Medicine, pain relief, natural hormone replacement, Cancer therapy, nutrition, weight control, herbal medicine, yoga and physical therapy. www.archbold.org.
iPhone App
Tallylife
Tallahassee’s 1st Local Mobile Town Guide.
The Tallylife website features all the people, places and events happening in Florida’s Capital City. All your event listings are free and can be easily uploaded via the website.Download the FREE iPhone app and soon to be released Droid app! www.tallylife. com
photography
Ansley Studio
Ansley Simmons artist . photographer . owner 229.224.6021 • www.AnsleyStudio.com
Specializing in portraits & weddings. MFA in Photography, Arts Administration Doctoral Student, Art Museum Education Certificate Florida State University
www.natallahassee.com
Physical Therapy.
Sherry Simpson, P.T.
354 Office Plaza Dr., Tallahassee, FL 32301 850-877-7310 SSimpsonpt@embarqmail.com
I have over 27 years of experience in physical therapy working with all ages and disabilities. Treatment modalities are primarily hands-on techniques and include myofacial release, craniosacral therapy, visceral techniques, muscle energy and more. Treatments also include gentle movement re-eduction. For any chronic condition as well as for general health, wellness and stress reduction.
professional SERVICES
Southeastern community blood ctr. 1-800-722-2218. Located in Tallahassee; Marianna, FL; Thomasville & Douglas, GA. scbcinfo.org
worship
LAKULISH YOGA
UNITY EASTSIDE
8551 Buck Lake Road, TLH, 850-656-1678 Rev. Jean Debarbieris Owen, Minister www.unity-eastside.org
Rev. Jean believes the love of God is unfolding in each person, place, Thing. Join us in Worship: Meditation Service 9:30 AM - Celebration Service 11AM; Youth Ministry 11AM, noon prayer Wed.
UNITY OF TALLAHASSEE 2850 Unity Lane, TLH, 850-562-5744, Rev. Bill Williams, Minister,
A ministry that seeks inspiration from the teachings of Jesus and finds common ground with spiritual masters from other traditions. We invite you to join us. Sunday Services 9:30 & 11 AM. Youth Education 11 AM. Wednesday Service at Noon.
Blood donors save lives. Is there any greater reward? Save Lives. Give Blood. M-F, 9am–6pm. (Sat. hours in Tallahassee: 9am–1pm)
REAL ESTATE TEAM - KW Debbie Leo - 273-9306 Jennifer Stowell - 567-3223
You can have a green home or find a green home for your family’s health and future. If you’re looking to buy or sell, call Debbie Leo and Jenn Stowell! Your Tallahassee Keller Williams agents.
Yoga
Hot Yoga Tallahassee www.HotYogaTallahassee.com
1238 Blountstown Highway (West Park Complex) You’re official Hot Yoga Studio in Tallahassee! Variations of Bikram/ Hatha yoga practiced in a heated room allowing for increased flexibility, strengthening of muscles, and full body detoxing. Class schedule and prices are available on our website. Beginners and Advanced students are encouraged to attend!
www.lakulishyogatallahassee.com 850-273-1861 joannadevi@earthlink.net
Yoga is so much more than the postures we are so familiar with --- yoga is the science of the soul --- our ultimate journey! Come and explore yoga with us. We offer hatha yoga classes, chanting with Om Sweet Om, a Bhagavad Gita study group, summer yoga camp for children and periodic workshops to delve deeper into the classical 8-step path to liberation. We are dedicated to upholding the integrity of the original teachings in a loving and sacred environment.
Warm Feet and Warm Hearts for those in Need Socks for Japan is a charity created by Jason Kelly, an American living in Japan. The concept is a simple one. On March 11, 2011, many people were rushed out of their homes during the Japanese earthquake and to escape the following tsunami. Many of these same people ran out of their homes without anything on their feet, even in the very cold weather conditions. Mr. Kelly came up with a concept for people all over the world to send clean, new socks of various sizes to comfort and warm the dispossessed masses of northern Japan. He also requests that for people who send the socks to include a care letter. On the Socks for Japan website there is a link for translation of the care letter. One care letter for each pair of socks sent. The dual purpose of this gift is to warm the physical body, and perhaps more importantly, a caring reach-out from a stranger across the world to warm the soul. There is a website for more information at http:// socksforjapan.com.
natural awakenings
April 2011
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How many e-mails did you delete today? Thousands of e-mails are deleted each day, however, 98% of cards are opened and read. Find out how you can benefit your business by an act of giving.
Contact Donna at 850-590-7024 or at http://sendoutcards.com/askDonnahow
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Tallahassee, S. Georgia, Gulf Coast
www.natallahassee.com