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MEN’S
HEALTH Five-Step Plan for Wellness
Russell Simmons
ON MONEY, BLISS AND VEGANISM
SUMMER
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Brain-Boosting Ideas for Kids Best Foods to Fight
HAIR LOSS
ZIPPY E-BIKES Today’s Easy, Green Riders JUNE 2011 | Tallahassee, South Georgia, Gulf Coast | www.natallahassee.com natural awakenings
June 2011
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contact us Publisher Donna L. Konuch Editor Donna L. Konuch Writer/Marketing Bethany Cavano Design & Production Susan McCann 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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advertising & Submissions How to Advertise
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Celebrate the Freedom of Living Simply
n this month’s Men’s Health issue of Natural Awakenings magazine, we focus on the men in our lives and what can help bring joy and abundant good living into their world. Did you notice Russell Simmons on our cover this month? Before reading the article about him on page 25, I knew of him as the originator of Def Jam records, that he was the brother of “Run” (Rev. Joseph Simmons) of Run-DMC, and that he ran the Phat Farm clothing line with his former wife, Kimora Lee Simmons. What I did not know, was that Mr. Simmons is a long-time vegan, a practitioner of Transcendental Meditation and is a Hindu/Buddhist with strong beliefs in Karma. Fascinating! I love to find out the true core essence of people. How wonderful that this man who has a net worth estimated to be over $300 million dollars, supports animal rights, was selected as a Goodwill Ambassador by the United Nations and advocates for conscious-based education endeavors. Celebrity aside, these are the things that make up the essence of this man. Each month, I try to bring you at least 2 or 3 articles written by local writers. In this June issue of the magazine I am happy to bring to you 4 local articles! Deanna Mims has written another installment of her Fascinators Series. Many of our readers already know or have heard of Howard Lubin, as he is a bit of a local celebrity. Check out Deanna’s article on Mr. Lubin on page 33. Two writing contest entries are also included this month. Michele Spear Campbell has written an article on how mountain biking can actually be a form of meditation, which is found on page 29. Tara Posey is a local physical therapist whose article informs us of specific exercises to help maintain a strong healthy back. Her contribution can be found on page 32. I am particularly happy to introduce to you this month Natural Awakenings new writer/marketing executive. Bethany Cavano has a long history in this region and was even involved in the very first Natural Awakenings ever produced in our area back in 2004. She is known by many around here, and has most recently been involved in the production of the Healing Arts Alliance festival at Lake Ella last month. I hope you will join me in welcoming her back into the Natural Awakenings fold and say Hi to her as you see her around town on assignment looking for interesting people, fun events and natural or green living information to share with all of our readers. Her first article for us is on the latest breaking news that coffee may actually prevent some prostate and breast cancers. You can find her article on page 5. I hope you enjoy everything that the magazine offers this month. I also hope the men in your life be they young or old, enjoy great health, good times and a vibrant life. It is my wish for everyone.
Blessings,
Donna K.
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contents 16
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.
8 healthbriefs
10 healthykids
10 SCHOOL’S OUT
12 greenliving
Five Fun Ways to Keep Kids’ Minds Sharp This Summer by Janet Forgrieve
16 ecotip
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12 ZIPPY E-BIKES
16 ecobriefs
Ditch the Car for a Fun and Easy Body-Friendly Ride
17 globalbriefs
by Brita Belli
22 fitbody
18 JUST TAKE FIVE
24 naturalpet
A Guy’s Guide to Staying Vitally Healthy
25 wisewords
30
18
25
by Judith Fertig
26 inspiration
22 BAREFOOTIN’
27 healingways
Let Feet Go Naked and Natural by Jason Robillard
30 consciouseating
24 FITNESS WITH FIDO Five Ways to Make Workouts Fun by Joshua Fleming
10 25 REALLY RICH: BALANCING 27 WEALTH WITH HEALTH
A Conversation with Russell Simmons by Bill Van Arsdale
26 THE POWER OF
A FATHER’S STORY
Letting Your Children Know You by John Badalament
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Encouraging News for Coffee Drinkers about Prostate Cancer by Bethany Cavano harlie Metcalfe is a 2-year prostate cancer survivor who loves to drink coffee. Two years ago, the 83-year-old Brewton, Alabama resident went in for a yearly check up. Routinely eating a healthful diet and taking daily excursions on his bicycle, Charlie considered himself a healthy man. Turns out he was, with one major exception. His PSA test results revealed a malignancy. Diagnosis… Prostate Cancer. Since octogenarians are rarely candidates for surgery, the Oncologist followed the next most effective protocol. Charlie had targeted radioactive pellets implanted near his prostate blasting the cancerous cells to oblivion. He suffered little more than extreme fatigue from the treatment. Fast forward two years, and Charlie says it’s as if he never had cancer. Although he admits the fear of recurrence lingers subconsciously, the eternal optimist chooses to eschew the fear factor. He exercises daily, and follows his anti-cancer nutritional regimen consuming a variety of antioxidants in every meal. In countless nutritional studies, scientific evidence has proven that a diet heavy in antioxidants is the best line of
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defense in preventing cancer recurrence. Foods like blueberries, dark leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables, which include broccoli, cabbage and brussell sprouts, help to create an alkaline environment in which cancer cells cannot thrive. It now appears there is another powerful antioxidant in perhaps the most popular beverage consumed daily by millions worldwide. It turns out coffee, the morning joe that gets us going, the java that makes us jive in the afternoon, has a unique chemical called methylpyridinium that can also deter cancer cells from growing. Scientists from Harvard Medical School recently released a follow up report on a study of health care workers that began in 1986 connecting coffee consumption with the risk of developing prostate cancer. An article published in the May 2011 edition of the Journal of the National Cancer Institute http:// jnci.oxfordjournals.org reports the conclusion of the study’s principal investigators as follows: “We observed a strong inverse association between coffee consumption and risk of lethal prostate cancer. The association appears to be related to non-caffeine components of coffee.” When the study began in 1986, the average intake of coffee among participants was 1.9 cups per day. “Men who consumed six or more cups per day had a lower adjusted relative risk for overall prostate cancer compared with nondrinkers. The association was stronger for lethal prostate cancer among those who consumed more than six cups of coffee per day.” Interestingly, researchers found coffee consumption did not appear to be similarly connected to the risk of non-advanced or low-grade cancers, and only slightly with highergrade cancer. The finding was similar for regular and decaffeinated coffee consumption. Other studies have shown coffee’s methylpyridinium enzymes have been associated with prevention of colon cancer and the most aggressive form of breast cancer, and appears to beneficially effect diabetes, Parkinson’s and liver disease. So, drop a nickle in the pot…it appears coffee can be good for some of us. Charlie Metcalfe can go back to drinking his favorite beverage with the knowledge that it’s standing guard against cancer cells. Who knew our favorite addiction could also be so beneficial? Ah, coffee… the Elixir of Life! natural awakenings
June 2011
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Collage A Self Awareness Process at The Senior Center
Picasso said that every piece of art is a selfportrait, a reflection of the artist psyche. Starting June 2nd, Licia Berry will lead students through a process of developing a collage artwork using personal symbols and life experiences as a starting point. Beginning with small and simple collages that illustrate aspects of personality, the students will then develop a larger more intricate collage from their personal history. Using simple art supplies and tools, students learn to develop the idea first and design the artwork from the message. Licia describes how this collage process can be used to develop self-awareness, write/illustrate personal stories, work through grief or unresolved issues, journaling, and/or map out future goals. Licia Berry has 25 years of professional experience in art, training and education. Her unique blend of systems thinking and symbolic analysis of imagery brings a right-brain perspective to left-brain messages. She uses a whole brain approach to problem solving with collage art as part of the process. Learn more about her www.LiciaBerry.com. Four Thursday evening classes, starts June 2. Call the Senior Center to register at 850-891-4000.
Yoga Teacher Training Intensive
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his month, Yoga on Pine is offering the Transcending Yoga Lifestyle and Teacher Training Immersion Intensive in downtown Albany of Southwest Georgia. This 2-week course offers a foundational teacher training method and immersion in mindful living through the lens of yoga. Students will learn the fundamental theory of alignment, sequencing, and yoga philosophy. In this rich experience, students will practice yoga on and off the mat, connect with nature at the waterfront of the Flint River, and treasure the gifts of friendship, community, and sustainability. Simply deepen your practice and understanding of yoga, or become a 200-hour certified yoga teacher (additional coursework required). Transcending Yoga is a nationally Registered Yoga School with YogaAlliance®. Classes meet daily from 8am-6pm, Monday, June 20 thru Sunday, July 3, 2011 at Yoga on Pine, 508 Pine Ave, Albany, Georgia 31701. Valerie Baltzer, Director of Teacher Training, is an experienced yoga teacher registered with YogaAlliance® at the highest level, ERYT500. She brings an inspirational and intention-based approach to hatha yoga as influenced by her worldrenowned teachers such as Judith Lasater, Seane Corn, Paul Grilley, Sarah Powers, and others. Valerie offers yoga and meditation classes, workshops, teacher trainings, and service-based yoga programs on the east coast accessible to students of all levels, ages, and backgrounds. Advance your practice, learn correct alignment, build a career you love, study yoga philosophy, and make lifelong friendships. “Transcend the Mat, Transform your Life!” Register today at www.transcendingyoga.com or call (229) 343-7268 for a free brochure and application.
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Soil Management Workshop at Turkey Hill Farm
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free workshop at Tallahassee’s Turkey Hill Farm 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on June 20 will tackle one of the most significant challenges many Florida farmers face—sound soil management. Farmer Herman Holley, UF/IFAS vegetable specialists Danielle Treadwell and Monica Ozores-Hampton, and FOG outreach staff will lead this soil management workshop that will provide farm-proven, research-supported practical advice for specialty crop farmers in the region. Topics will include cover cropping, on-farm composting, crop rotation, fertility management, and potentially others. Dr. Treadwell is an assistant professor with research and extension interests in cover cropping and nutrient management. Assistant Professor Dr. Ozores-Hampton focuses on nutrient use efficiency, fertilization practices, and compost utilization. Turkey Hill Farm is located in eastern Leon County, just outside Tallahassee in Florida’s Red Hills Region. Farmers Louise Divine and Herman Holley acquired the property’s 89 acres in 1999 and are farming four acres. The farm includes diverse ecosystems and wildlife habitat, fruit orchards and vegetable gardens. To meet increasing demand for locally grown food, the farm’s fresh produce is sold at area farmers markets, through 30 Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) shares, and to select restaurants. FOG is a non-profit organization Education and Outreach Program promotes organic and sustainable agriculture and healthy and just food systems, informing producers, consumers, media, institutions and governments about the benefits of organic and sustainable agriculture. To register for the workshop, visit www.foginfo.org/scbgworkshops and complete the registration form. For more information call 352.377.6355 or email education@foginfo.org.
The Language Project
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arol Kresge presents “The Power of One: Planting the Seeds of Economic Development through Literacy,” a progress report on “The Language Project” in Laos, on Monday, June 20th at the United Church in Tallahassee, 1834 Mahan Drive. Kresge has made literacy in Laos her passion, where nearly 41% of the population is under 14 years of age, books are prohibitively expensive and school texts are often unavailable. The presentation begins at 6:30 PM, followed by an informal discussion. For information, call 878-1598, or visit www.TheLanguageProject.org.
World Ballet Offers a Camp for Dancers of All Ages
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or those children who love to dance, World Ballet is offering an eclectic series of dance camps June 13 through August 13. Young girls dreaming of being the next Sugar Plum Fairy or young men the Nutcracker Prince would enjoy the Nutcracker Dance Camp, June 13th – 25th for ages 4-10. Campers will learn to tell the Nutcracker story in creative pantomimed performances, including the Waltz of the Flowers, the Marzipan and Chocolate Spanish dances, and a Sugar Plum Fairy variation. In addition to dancing, they will learn to create colorful backdrops and props, and design their own costumes. For advanced and intermediate dancers, Summer Dance Intensives will be offered June 20th – July 2nd and July 11th – August 13th. This program focuses training in classical ballet as well as other dance forms designed to enhance movement versatility in today’s varied dance culture. There will be daily classes in ballet technique, style classes teaching jazz, modern and hip hop technique, stretching and conditioning. Classes will be taught by World Ballet faculty and visiting guest Master Teachers. For information about the World Ballet Summer Camp for children, and additional classes for adults, visit www.worldballetinc.com or call 850-553-3315. Location is 2518 Cathay Court off Centerville Road.
New Healthy Eatery Offers Fresh Ingredients
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his past February, Mike Collins opened Mike’s Stone Baked Pizza in a quaint 1950’s era, painted- blue brick building on Jackson Bluff Road. Conveniently located in the tri-college student Mecca close to FSU, FAMU and TCC campuses, Mike says about half of his customers are students. “I also have a lot of young families and mature clientele. We do take out, pick up, and can seat 26 for eat-in customers.” The menu at Mike’s pizza shop is basic and simple. What sets it apart from others is fresh ingredients and homemade, whole-wheat crust. They hand select fresh ingredients daily from local produce vendors. Their whole-wheat crust is hand baked daily for their Pizzas, Calzones, Stromboli, Garlic Knots and Tomato Basil Pizza Bread appetizers. The menu includes small, large and extra large sandwiches from $2.99 to $9.99, Mike’s Specialty Stromboli and calzones from $5.99 - $12.99, appetizers from $1.50 - $7.99 and salad. Pizzas range from $5.99 - $10.49, with an extra charge per topping. Desserts are coming soon. Whether for pick up, take out or eat in, Mike’s Stone Baked Pizza is open seven days a week, 11:00 ’til Late on weekdays and Noon ‘til Late on weekends. It is located at 1313 Jackson Bluff Road. To place an order, call 850-575-3000. natural awakenings
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healthbriefs
Mercury-Free Dentistry
U.S. Supports Ending Amalgam Cavity Fillings
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n a watershed move towards global mercury-free dentistry, the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) recently reported that the U.S. government has announced that it supports a phase down, with the goal of eventual phase out of mercury amalgam. That’s the silver-and-mercurymixed material commonly used to fill cavities in teeth. This represents a radical reversal of the government’s former position that, “Any change toward the use of dental amalgam is likely to result in positive public health outcomes.” The new stance will be submitted at the third round of negotiations for the world mercury treaty. The IAOMT sees this as “an extraordinary development that will change the global debate about amalgam.” The IAOMT, a global network of 700 dental, medical and research professionals, is a longtime opponent of mercury amalgam because of possible health risks from mercury, a known toxin. It is considered especially risky for children and for pregnant women, whose fetuses can be affected. Possible side effects of the continuous release of toxic vapor from mercury fillings into the body include memory loss, tremors, personality changes and impaired immune systems. Yet, the World Dental Federation and the American Dental Association continue to maintain that mercury amalgam fillings are safe. To date, mercury fillings have been banned in Norway and restricted in Finland, Sweden, Austria, Canada and Germany. With the U.S. government on board, says Charles G. Brown, president of the World Alliance for Mercury-Free Dentistry, “The debate has shifted from whether to end amalgam to how to end amalgam.” Mercury-free dentistry supports the use of a tooth-colored, bonded composite material, made primarily of resin. For more information, visit iaomt.org.
Berries May Protect Against Parkinson’s
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study by researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health, in Boston, presented at the American Academy of Neurology’s 63rd annual meeting, confirms that eating berries can lower the risk of Parkinson’s disease. The study involved 49,281 men and 80,336 women that were monitored for 20 to 22 years. The researchers concluded that the women who consumed the most anthocyanins, a class of flavonoids found mostly in berries, had a lower risk of developing the disease than those whose diet contained less or different classes of flavonoids. For men, berry anthocyanins, as well as flavonoids found in apples and oranges and other rich dietary sources, made a significant difference in their freedom from the disease. 8
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Natural Relief for Constipation
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ating dietary fiber and drinking plenty of fluids are the main ways for keeping our digestive tracts active and happy. Thus, the most common reasons for constipation are a diet lacking in fiber and insufficient fluid intake. But other reasons can also contribute, such as inadequate exercise, an unbalanced or changed diet due to traveling, ingestion of medications, or hormonal fluctuations. Whatever the reasons, it’s good to know that natural remedies can provide a viable option, instead of resorting to harsher, chemical laxatives. Generally, all fruits, except for banana and jackfruit, can help get a sluggish bowel moving. Bael fruit, found in Asian markets, is considered a natural laxative and is eaten to help clean and tone the intestines. Another way to seek relief is eating pears or fresh guavas after dinner or with breakfast. Eating half a medium-sized papaya for breakfast has laxative effects, as do fresh figs. Note that prunes and dry figs should be soaked overnight in a little water and eaten in the morning. Consider a “fiber day” to move things along, with menus consisting only of steamed vegetables, fruits and salads. Sprinkle various dishes with high-fiber seeds, such as sunflower, pumpkin and ground flax seeds. According to the American Dietetic Association, the average American currently ingests about 11 grams of fiber daily. Women should aim for 21 to 25 grams a day, and men, 30 to 38 grams. Remember, if constipation strikes, when we literally get moving, so will our bowels. Sources: Home-Remedies-For-You.com/ remedy/Constipation.html; WebMD.com.
Feed Your Feet with Castor Oil
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vegetable oil obtained from the seed of the castor plant (Ricinus communis), pure castor oil is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with mild or no odor or taste. Among many uses, it can serve as a naturally healthy treatment for several common foot problems. Dryness: When circulation to one’s feet is compromised, the skin may become dried out. According to the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, castor oil has long been used to soothe and seal foot skin that has become cracked and fissured, qualified health counselors seek to improve the root cause of the impediment to normal circulation. Red and itchy: The fatty chains of castor oil are made up almost entirely of ricinoleic acid, which modern medicine recognizes as a powerful anti-inflammatory (Mediators of Inflammation). Achy: Castor oil has also proved to have analgesic, or pain-reducing, effects, according to a study of surface pain published in the Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery. Fungal: Undecylenic acid, an active ingredient in castor oil, is widely acknowledged for its relief of fungal infections in the body (Antiviral Research). For foot or toenail fungus, soak feet in a basin of water with Epsom salts for about five minutes, and then apply castor oil liberally.
Trans-Fats and Depression Linked?
oses of glucosamine that exceed the daily recommended amount of 1,500 milligrams counseled by most manufacturers of these supplements, or their prolonged intake, may cause injury to the pancreas and increase the risk of diabetes, according to a study by Université Laval’s Faculty of Pharmacy, in Canada. Glucosamine is commonly used for joint care.
A new study from Navarra and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria universities shows that a high consumption of trans-fats and saturated fats can increase an individual’s risk of suffering from depression. The study further demonstrated, “The more trans-fats [that] were consumed, the greater the harmful effect they produced,” says lead author Almudena Sánchez-Villegas, an associate professor of preventive medicine at Las Palmas. The researchers worked with 12,059 volunteers, of whom none had experienced depression during the previous six years, analyzing the volunteers’ diets, lifestyles and ailments before, during and after the project. At the end of the study, 657 new cases of depression were detected. The researchers confirmed that participants who had consumed the most trans-fats and saturated fats in their diets had increased their risk of the disorder by up to 48 percent, compared to those who did not eat these fats or substituted polyunsaturated fats found in olive and other natural plant oils and fish.
Source: Endocrinology-Journals.org
Source: PLoSOne.org
Preventing Gum Disease
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esearchers from the Harvard Medical School and Harvard School of Public Health have found that dietary intake of the polyunsaturated fats found in fish have anti-inflammatory properties and show promise for the effective treatment and prevention of periodontitis. Study results were published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association. Periodontitis is a common inflammatory disease, in which the supporting bone and fibers that hold teeth in place become damaged. Pockets can form below the gum line that trap food and plaque, which if left unchecked, can result in structural bone and tooth loss. Proper dental treatment and improved home care can usually help prevent further damage. Source: Elsevier Health Sciences, 2010
Cautionary Note on Glucosamine Intake
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healthykids
School’s Out
Five Fun Ways to Keep Kids’ Minds Sharp This Summer by Janet Forgrieve
Every year, kids across the country close their schoolbooks and adjust their inner clocks to the more unstructured hours of summer. They’re ready to let the good times roll.
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et, studies going back decades have documented a resulting “summer slide” among kids who don’t engage their minds as much as school demands during their joyful break, according to Patricia Froehlich, youth services consultant for the Colorado State Library. To combat this, parents can find ways to strike a balance between learning and fun, grabbing opportunities to teach when and where they can. These parents find that the more this learning feels like schoolwork, the faster you lose them. But keeping it fun can not only keep kids from falling behind, it also may give them a leg up when they head back to class in the fall. The key is in “just hiding the learning in the fun,” counsels Christy Wright, activities director of Big Horn K-12 summer school, in Wyoming. Here are some ways to keep kids’ minds active when they’re out of school. 10
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Reading
Summer community reading programs provide ageappropriate options for kids of every grade and help those who aren’t naturally adept readers to find topics that will make them want to pick up a book, advises Froehlich. Lisa Parry’s inspiration for her own family reading program came on Mother’s Day, when her children asked if they could get out the beads and make their mom some jewelry. They decided that each time her first-grader, Grace, finished reading a book aloud, she got to put another bead on a string that hung on the wall. Grace watched her accomplishments grow, while her parents saw her reading improve.
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Science
Families that spend time camping and hiking can capitalize on the abundant natural learning opportunities that such activities foster, aided by books on the local flora and fauna. When traveling to another part of the country or the world for outdoor adventures, do some homework together first about what you’re likely to see when you get there. Indoor science lessons, cleverly disguised as games or toys, may be just as valuable, not only for teaching scientific concepts, but also in fostering skills kids will need when they head back to the classroom. Kelly Pascal Gould relates how Jackson, her elementary school-age son, naturally gravitates toward experiments and creative projects. One spring, she stocked up on chemistry sets and science kits. Several of them worked to engage the bud-
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ding inventor, who needed to increase his attention span. Wright notes that many students that participate in her summer school program are referred to her because they have trouble concentrating in regular classes. She’s learned that projects that teach them about science, nature and how things work tend to keep them focused on the task at hand, and also begin to ingrain in them ways to better concentrate in the future.
LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE THERAPY
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Games
During Wright’s summer school program, kids come in early to play Dance Dance Revolution or Guitar Hero; she encourages kids to play these and other games on consoles like Xbox, PlayStation and Wii. Games that engage the body, while demanding mental concentration, not only help kids learn new skills, they may also improve their ability to be able to focus when they need to sit still for lessons later, she says. “[Games that entail] cross-lateral movement, which means doing something crossover, like jumping rope or playing ball, are good, too, because they’re using one side of the body that engages the other side of the brain, so both body and mind are moving,” explains Wright. “It helps kids comprehend, and then settle down and learn.” More traditional games provide another type of learning experience, especially when kids make up rules they invent and agree upon as they go along.
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Cooking
Preparing meals is another forum for engaging kids’ minds during the summer. To enjoy the fruits of their culinary labors, youngsters must first master reading, measuring and following directions—lessons that are much easier to swallow when they are followed by a tasty dish they’ve made themselves, notes Wright. It may take patience on the part of parents, who see cooking as another household chore to complete as quickly as possible, but taking the time to teach kids cooking skills makes us slow down and realize there’s joy to be found in the kitchen when we have someone to share the work. Parry’s daughter Grace loves to help in the kitchen, and children generally enjoy the tangible sense of accomplishment when they put a meal they’ve helped create on the table. “She’s old enough now where she can measure and scoop,” Parry says. “It’s fun for both of us.”
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Art
Gould set up a place at home where Jackson can go and create to his heart’s content. The art room has just about anything a child needs to create his own works of art, she says. Jackson also recently learned to embroider; quite an accomplishment, given the complete focus such an art demands. Susan Aust’s tween, Tucker, is into art of a different kind, having developed a love of all things theatrical and voraciously reading books about famous actors and actresses, she says. The Austs started a weekly home family film festival, where they all watch a movie together and afterwards, “We talk about the actors’ lives and work.” Janet Forgrieve is a regular contributor to GaiamLife.com, from which this article was adapted. natural awakenings
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greenliving
Zippy E-Bikes Ditch the Car for a Fun and Easy Body-Friendly Ride by Brita Belli
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riving a vehicle to work, the store and the gym on congested roads does more than try our patience—those daily petroleumpowered trips are polluting the planet. The Clean Air Council reports that each gallon of gas we use on the road results in 20 more pounds of carbon dioxide (CO2) mucking up the atmosphere we breathe. In fact, all motor vehicles combined are responsible for 31 percent of the total CO2 emissions currently contributing to global warming. Because most car trips are short— the National Household Travel Survey finds that half of all the trips we make are three miles or less, 72 percent of these in motor vehicles—they could be replaced with a more eco-friendly ride. With such a wide variety of snazzy new options available, from cargo bicycles to electric motorcycles, it’s never been easier to move on our best intentions. RECUMBENT BICYCLES AND VELOMOBILES: Recumbent-style bicycles look unfamiliar because they are ergo12
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nomically designed with higher pedals and large, back-supporting seats that distribute a rider’s weight—allowing people of all shapes and sizes to lean back and pedal comfortably while maintaining safety and speed. These people-friendly cycles can be of typical bike length or longer, and some are trikes, with two back wheels. They also can be equipped with a pod-like cover for year-round riding. The covered, aerodynamic, threewheeled versions are known as velomobiles, or bicycle cars. Rod Miner, president of Lightfoot Cycles, which specializes in recumbent bikes, sideby-side four-wheel tandems, adult trikes with cargo and pet carriers, and velomobiles, says that almost every model can be given added oomph with an electric- or a small-engine assist. “For the cost of a gallon of gas,” Miner says, “one of our super-efficient, electrically assisted cycles can travel 1,200 miles.” Examples at BacchettaBikes.com and LightfootCycles.com.
ELECTRIC BIKES: These offer a zippy, eco-friendly way to run errands, combining pedal power with the assistance of a small electric motor that facilitates speeds of up to 20 miles per hour. They require no gas, license or registration, and often are allowed on roads where mopeds and scooters are offlimits. A good electric bike can travel 40 to 50 miles on a single charge. In another twist, the power of the motors in Kalkhoff brand bikes, known as pedelec bikes in Europe, increases the more you pedal. Examples at Electric-Bikes.com, kabs ride.com, Kalkhoffusa.com and ILove eBikes.com (Liberty Electric Bikes). ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLES: Electric motorcycles provide the same thrill and speed as gas-powered versions, minus the noise and dirty emissions. These motorcycles are ready to race: The Mission R electric racing superbike is not only a sleek-looking machine, but can go from zero to fast in one gear. They also look nearly identical to a traditional ride, hosting a battery pack and motor in place of the powertrain. Because motorcycles are small and efficient, they don’t require heavy battery packs, and can be plugged into any home outlet to charge. Most will run for about two hours, or 40 to 50 miles on a charge. A federal incentive of a 10 percent tax credit helps with the purchase price, along with state incentives active in California, Colorado, Georgia and South Carolina and pending in many other states (update at ZeroMotorcycles. com/it/incentives). Examples at Brammo.com; RideMission. com (Mission Motors). For more information see Popular Mechanics’ Electric Motorcycle Guide, tinyurl. com/3ddeej6. ELECTRIC DIRT BIKES: Nature lovers may recoil at the idea of gas-powered dirt bikes or motocross bikes tearing
around trails, but in designated spots, they can provide the thrill riders seek, minus the noxious exhaust and noisy, revving engines. In fact, Dirt Rider Magazine says of the all-electric Zero X dirt bike: “Utter silence... is the inevitable sound of the future of off-road motorcycle riding.” Its battery charger plugs in to any standard outlet, and all of the company’s lithium-ion power packs are recycled. While the battery-powered Zero can reach off-road speeds of up to 47 mph, the company Razor also designs scaled-down electric motocross bikes (and quads and scooters) for younger enthusiasts that are built for fun, with speeds of up to 14 mph for up to 10 miles on a single charge. Examples at Razor.com and ZeroMotor cycles.com (search Dirt). LONGTAIL AND CARGO BIKES: Longtail, or cargo, bikes are designed for carting everything from groceries to kids. An extended mount for the back tire gives riders extra space to use as a long, flat seat for kids to straddle, with space on either side for saddlebags (called panniers) or other bucket- or baskettype attachments. It has a bit larger turning radius and two kickstands for keeping the bike upright when stationary. With a base price often upwards of $1,000, cargo-oriented riders may wish to opt to convert an existing bicycle into a longtail with a backend attachment like the Free Radical from Xtracycle, which can be bolted on to provide two deep compartments for hauling up to 200 pounds of carry-ons. Madsen bikes come equipped with a large, sturdy bucket that supplies a fun ride for young ones—or for packing beach gear or shopping bags. Examples at MadsenCycles.com, Surly Bikes.com and Xtracycle.com.
BALANCE BIKES: Pedalless or “walking” balance bikes (also known as run bikes) are all the rage in kids’ bicycles today, and a quick perusal of YouTube videos of kids riding them shows why. Because little ones are able to use their feet to push off the ground, then lift their feet as the bike rolls forward, even tots as young as 2 or 3 can do some serious cruising. Not only can they go somewhat faster than they would with a hard-to-accelerate tricycle, they also learn how to balance themselves, facilitating a quicker transition to a larger bike without training wheels when the time comes. Examples at Access.Kettlerusa.com/ retail, LikeABikeusa.com, MyStriderBike. com and Runbikes.com. Tallahassee Local Bike Shops: The Tallahassee region is blessed with many bicycle shops offering some of the product examples above as well as your standard scooter, bicycle and cycling accessories. A short list of cycle businesses include: All About Scooters, www.allaboutscooters.com, University Cycles of Tallahassee, www.universitycyclesoftallahassee.com, Higher Ground Bicycle Co., www.hgbco.com, Great Bicycle Shop, www.greatbicycle.com, Bicycle House, www.bicyclehouse.org and Sunshine Cycles, www.bikesunshine.net. The City of Tallahassee is doing everything it can to promote cycling in our region, including the development and promotion of bicycle lanes and specialty trails. Enjoy yourself and go out and ride! Brita Belli, the editor of E – The Environmental Magazine, is a regular contributor to Natural Awakenings.
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ecobriefs Wear Blue, Tell Two
Celebrate World Oceans Day June 8 Global advocates for protecting the health of our oceans and making it a way of life have focused on youth education as the most promising activity to effect and sustain lasting positive change, based on research by The Ocean Project (The OceanProject.org). The website suggests a multitude of ways that people of all ages can get on board. It starts by wearing a blue shirt on June 8, World Oceans Day, and telling two others about the oceans’ vital role in Earth’s ecology. It continues by making it a habit to reduce our daily personal carbon footprint (ocean absorption of carbon dioxide is acidifying waters), and choosing seafood that is sustainably harvested or farmed without harm to coastal waters and seafood stocks. Visit WorldOceansDay.org.
Act Now
Help Stop Crop Contamination On March 29, 2011, Sow True Seed joined 60 family farmers, seed businesses and organic agricultural organizations in a lawsuit led by the nonprofit Public Patent Foundation, challenging chemical giant Monsanto’s right to sue farmers for patent infringement, because they say it is Monsanto that is perpetrating the injury by infecting organic farms with genetically modified seed. Mounting research shows that once released into the environment, the engineered seed (a genetically modified organism, or GMO), contaminates and corrupts naturally reproducing seed for the same crop. For example, soon after Monsanto introduced genetically modified seed for canola, these famers report that organic canola became virtually extinct, as a result of cross-contamination. Organic corn, soybeans, cotton, sugar beets and alfalfa now face the same fate, as Monsanto continues to develop genetically modified seed for many other crops. “In the last decade [for example], it’s become nearly impossible to ensure that corn seed is free from contamination,” says Peter Waskiewicz, co-founder of Sow True Seed (SowTrueSeed.com). “Morally, it has become necessary to stand up and fight for keeping openpollinated seed safe and available,” says fellow co-founder, Carol Koury. Waskiewicz adds, “We recognize the basic right of all the Earth’s people to enjoy a safe, ethical and sovereign food production and distribution system.” For more information, visit PubPat.org/osgatavmonsantofiled.htm. Petition for GMO labeling at OrganicConsumers.org/Monsanto/index.cfm. Ask the Department of Justice to step in at Action.FoodDemocracyNow.org/sign/break_up_monsanto. Join local groups that advocate for healthy, organic, locally grown and produced products. 14
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www.natallahassee.com
California Dreamin’ Golden State Leads in Clean Energy Standards
In the nation’s most aggressive clean energy legislation to date, California will require utilities in the state to obtain at least 33 percent of their electricity from clean, renewable sources such as the wind and sun by 2020, revising the previous standard of 20 percent by 2010 (they hit 18 percent, on track for the full 20 by 2012). Adopted as part of a green jobs stimulus package, “Today’s vote is not just a victory for California’s economy and environment, but for the entire nation,” says Laura Wisland, an energy analyst at the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS). The new standard garnered the backing of a broad range of electric utilities, ratepayer groups, environmental organizations and renewable energy businesses. The UCS estimates that the state will be responsible for more than 25 percent of the renewable energy generated by state standards across the country in 2020. The amount of heat-trapping global warming emissions displaced as a result will be equivalent to removing about 3 million cars from the road. A 2011 Gallup poll found that of eight actions the U.S. Congress could take this year—from overhauling the tax code and immigration reform to speedy withdrawal of our troops from Afghanistan—Americans most favor an energy bill that provides incentives for using alternative energy; 83 percent said, “Do it!
Eco-Europe
Ban Planned for Gas-Fueled Vehicles by 2050 A new report by the European Commission, an executive branch of the European Union, proposes to completely eliminate gasoline and diesel-fueled cars and trucks in favor of cleanrunning vehicles by 2050, in a bid to decrease traffic congestion and drastically reduce the continent’s carbon footprint. The commission also would like to enact a ban on the shortest air flights, requiring passengers to travel by other means of transportation, such as trains, for distances under 186 miles. Meanwhile, infrastructure will be updated to cater to more sustainable forms of transportation across the continent. EU Transport Commissioner Siim Kallas describes the plan as being composed of, “very radical, very ambitious targets.” Changing the way a continent moves doesn’t come cheap: “We are talking about the necessity of an investment of 1.5 trillion euros ($2.2 trillion),” as Kallas was quoted in The Independent, in the UK. “Curbing mobility is not an option; neither is business as usual. We can break the transport system’s dependence on oil without sacrificing its efficiency and compromising mobility. It can be a win-win.”
Source: Treehugger.com
Global Dividend
Eliminating Gas Flares Delivers Energy Savings GE Energy (ge.com/energy) has released a study estimating that 5 percent of the world’s natural gas production is wasted by burning, or “flaring”, unused gas each year—an amount equivalent to 23 percent of overall U.S. consumption. Worldwide, billions of cubic yards of natural gas are wasted annually, typically as a byproduct of oil extraction. Gas flaring annually emits 440 million tons of carbon dioxide (CO2), the equivalent of 77 million automobiles, without producing useful heat or electricity. “Power generation, gas re-injection and distributed energy solutions are available today and can eliminate the wasteful practice of burning unused gas,” says Michael Farina, a program manager at GE Energy and author of the analysis. The nearly $20 billion in wasted natural gas could be used to generate reliable, affordable electricity and yield billions of dollars per year in increased global economic output. Farina continues: “With greater global attention and concerted effort—including partnerships, sound policy and innovative technologies—large-scale gas flaring could be largely eliminated in as little as five years.” To succeed, it will require political will and investment incentives. natural awakenings
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ecotip
Favor Sustainable Flight
The Globalist reports that the world’s aircraft contribute to global warming by producing 600 million tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) a year, while U.S. airports alone generate more than 425,000 tons of garbage, according to the Natural Resources Defense Council’s report, Trash Landings. So what are airlines doing to mitigate their environmental impact and how can travelers become wiser in choosing a carrier? Without an authoritative source ranking airlines to identify the greenest, it’s up to passengers to search for information on the company websites. Terms to research include: sustainability; environmental policy; corporate and social responsibility; recycling; and carbon emissions or carbon offsets. The “About Us” sections might also have clues. An absence of relevant information also indicates company priorities. Look for the following information: n A firm target for increasing fuel GreenTravelerGuides.com efficiency offers practical tips for making n Fewer flight delays (avoids burning excess fuel). The U.S. Department of the most of eco-friendly flying Transportation tracks delay informaand homing in on guaranteedtion by airline (tinyurl.com/3hnll8d) n A link to carbon offset plans and/or green destinations. the option to buy an offset in a ticket purchase n A newer, more fuel-efficient fleet n Airplanes designed with winglets—wing tip extensions that reduce drag and provide extra lift, cutting fuel use n A system to recapture toxic glycol after it’s sprayed on airplanes in de-icing operations n A recycling program for trash, both onboard and in terminals Tips to minimize the eco-impact of personal air travel: n Write to favorite airlines about your desire to see them become more ecofriendly. Encourage them to establish waste recycling policies, fuel-efficient practices and carbon offset programs. n Travel light; the less and lighter the baggage cargo, the less fuel is needed to fly. (Creative carriers add their own innovations: Alaska Airlines found that it could save $10,000 annually in fuel costs by removing just five magazines per aircraft.) n Book a direct flight. Takeoffs and landings are a major source of CO2. Pack your own lunch or snacks, in reusable containers, to limit fast-food waste. n After arriving at your destination, choose eco-friendly ground transportation, such as your hotel’s shuttle or a green rental car service. n If you have a choice of airports, choose one that conducts a recycling program; the National Resources Defense Council has praised those initiated by international airports in Los Angeles, Fort Lauderdale, Seattle-Tacoma and Portland, Oregon.
Green Wedding Traditions
An eco-friendly wedding will not only strip it of energy-sucking extras, it’s also far less expensive. Minimize the occasion’s carbon footprint by taking a cue from these standout green wedding customs and traditions from other countries. Canada Rather than buy wrapped gifts, guests pay for each kiss from the bride or groom, and also pay for part of the honeymoon. China The bride and groom travel in one car to the ceremony. Indonesia Family members invite weddings guests by walking to their homes to pay a visit. Italy Instead of gifts, a white bag called la borsa is passed around for guests to make cash donations. Spain The bride hand-sews an embroidered shirt for her husband to wear at the ceremony. Sweden The bride carries a bouquet of malodorous weeds to ward off trolls.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change notes that greenhouse gas pollution from flying aircraft may be up to four times more damaging to the environment than the same levels of pollution emitted at ground level.
Marriage partners may be giving up a few status symbols, but by incorporating some of these green traditions, a couple can add a matchless personal touch to their wedding that will be forever treasured.
Source: GreenYour.com
Source: PlanetGreen.com
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globalbriefs News and resources to inspire concerned citizens to work together in building a healthier, stronger society that benefits all.
Touch Nature
Vacation Down on the Farm With the family farm an endangered institution, urbanites have a growing desire to reconnect with America’s rural countryside. Farm Stay U.S. founder Scottie Jones, of Leaping Lamb Farm, in Oregon, is showing the way with a directory of farms that welcome visitors. Jones and her team have seen firsthand how guests are nourished by their farm-stay experiences, reaping indelible memories of the lost rhythm of farm life. They return to their daily lives with an appreciation for farming and a greater likelihood of supporting local farms and food production through their everyday purchases. Jones hopes that Farm Stay U.S. will provide an economic, educational and even spiritual bridge for both rural and urban Americans eager to expand their stewardship of the land with their newfound friends. Search a wide range of farm types, activities and amenities by state at FarmStayUS.com.
Local Eats
Feds Boost Support for Local Farm-to-School Meals A new ruling by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) underscores the federal government’s intent to encourage use of local farm products in school meals. It allows schools and other providers to give preference to unprocessed, locally grown and locally raised agricultural products for schoolbased nutrition assistance programs. “This rule is an important milestone that will help ensure that our children have access to fresh produce and other agricultural products,” confirms Agriculture Undersecretary Kevin Concannon. “It will also give a much-needed boost to local farmers and agricultural producers.” Part of the landmark Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 signed into law by President Obama—which improves the critical nutrition and hunger safety net for millions of children—the rule supports USDA’s Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food initiative and builds on the 2008 Farm Bill designed to revitalize rural economies by supporting local and regional food systems. USDA expects Americans’ spending for locally grown food to rise from an estimated $4 billion in 2002 to as much as $7 billion by 2012. For more information, visit www.fns.usda.gov/cnd/f2s.
Florida Water Watch State Water Quality is a Regulatory Hot Potato
Florida, the nation’s 22nd largest and fourth most populated state, is also geographically diverse. That is why a 2010 move by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that changes the way pollution is measured is having a controversial impact on the state’s efforts to conserve its natural water supply. The Florida Aquifer comprises a hidden tributary of water, scrubbed by the Okefenokee Swamp in Georgia and flowing underground all the way south to the Everglades. North Florida’s spring-fed Suwanee River is one of the cleanest in the nation, and numerous North Florida sources, such as Zephyrhills and Blue Springs, are tapped and bottled for their water’s purity. Traditionally, state regulations governing water quality have been based upon a specific waterway’s official designated use. Evidence of degradation, such as becoming unsafe for swimming or for the survival of certain types of fish, yields the designation of “impaired.” In 2009, the EPA determined that Florida’s narrative form of monitoring did not uphold the national Clean Water Act; federal regulators decided that a numerical method, already used in dozens of other states, is a better way to keep tabs on water quality. This method records data on a regular basis and compares it to baseline standards, in an effort to detect and address pollution as it occurs, rather than wait for evidence of damage to show up after the fact. The current controversy arises because the EPA is applying certain standards on a statewide basis using averages of data samples, although underground conditions vary widely. For example, in some areas, such as Central and North Florida, natural rock formations contain high levels of phosphates and nitrates, which in other areas could be byproducts of fertilizer runoff. Critics claim that the new EPA standards seek to reduce some levels of phosphates and nitrates to below what has been naturally occurring and constant for 150 years. The number of designated impaired sites would increase from hundreds to thousands, causing needless, costly mitigation and tying up shrinking funds that could be better used for bona fide environmental protection. The building industry lobby also sees the new pollution standards as a reason to limit development in the state. Proponents proclaim that the new standards will serve citizens better by helping to maintain a more habitable environment through the generations. Debate about Florida’s liquid heritage is ongoing. To become informed about the issue and its impact on a particular local area, visit CleanWaterNetwork-fl.org and Water.epa.gov/action. natural awakenings
June 2011
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JUST TAKE FIVE
A Guy’s Guide to Staying Vitally Healthy by Judith Fertig
A
ncient prophets understood the wisdom of living by the adage, “Eat, drink and be merry,” and it still rings true today. Today’s health experts further add, “get moving” and “see your doctor at least once a year.” Adopting this short, easy-to-do list of habits as a guiding principle can be key to a healthier and happier life, and add more years to accomplish your bucket list. The good news about male longevity is that much of it is under our control. Dr. Robert Butler, gerontologist, psychiatrist and author of The Longevity Prescription: The 8 Proven Keys to a Long, Healthy Life, received a Pulitzer Prize for his work on aging. A founding director of the National Institute on Aging of the National Institutes of Health, he also started the nation’s first department of geriatrics, at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, in New York City. In his early 80s, Butler was still regularly walking around Central Park before putting in 60-hour weeks doing work he loved as head of International Longevity Center–USA (ilcusa.org). Butler maintained that genes account for only 25 percent of our individual health and said, “Our environment and personal behaviors account for the rest.” For him, it was simple things like welcome hugs and laughter that added pleasure and length to life. Of course, learning something new helps the brain stay active. Butler lived 18
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the essence of active right up until his passing a year ago at age 83.
A Simple Prescription
So, what are men up against today? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (cdc.gov), the leading causes of death for men are heart disease; cancer (especially prostate); injuries; chronic lower respiratory diseases; stroke; diabetes; suicide; influenza and pneumonia; kidney disease; and Alzheimer’s disease. But men can take a preventive approach to these conditions. Here are five proactive, enjoyable ways that work: EAT. The simple everyday act of healthy eating can have longterm, holistic benefits for not only overall health and weight management, but for preventing prostate cancer. In www.natallahassee.com
2010, nearly 218,000 men in the United States were diagnosed with prostate cancer, a largely curable challenge when caught in its early stages, according to the American Cancer Society. But why not eat well to prevent potential cancer cells from becoming a bigger problem? “All of us have microscopic cancers growing in our bodies all the time,” says Dr. William Li, founder and head of The Angiogenesis Foundation, in Cambridge, Massachusetts (angio.org and the userfriendly EatToDefeat.org). Angiogenesis is the process our bodies use to grow blood vessels, he says, a natural process that sometimes gets hijacked by cancer cells. “A microscopic tumor can grow up to 16,000 times its original size in as little as two weeks,” explains Li, “but new, groundbreaking research from The Angiogenesis Foundation proposes that you can stop cancer before it begins to grow.” Li calls this new preventive approach “anti-angiogenesis.” “Many common foods contain cancer-starving molecules,” Li continues. “Anti-angiogenesis encourages that. By changing the way you eat, you can change your internal environment, thereby depriving cancer cells the opportunity to grow and multiply.” Li and his colleagues continue to monitor the results of other studies while continuing their own research showing the positive effects of certain foods in slowing or preventing the growth and spread of cancer cells. One seminal study, published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute in 2002, established the link between eating cooked tomato products and a lowered risk of prostate cancer. “Cooked tomatoes… have more cancer-fighting properties than raw
tomatoes,” advises Li. “Both contain the molecule lycopene, but heating the tomato changes its chemical structure and makes the benefits more readily available to the body. You should eat two to three [½ cup] servings of cooked tomatoes a week.” The Angiogenesis Foundation provides a base list of 40 natural foods that contain cancer-preventing properties. New foods are added as their benefits are proved in research. The newest additions for fighting prostate cancer— Emmental, Jarlsburg and gouda cheeses—are rich in vitamin K2.
DRINK. Consuming fresh ginger drinks, green tea and herbal tea blends that include anti-angiogenic ginseng, lavender and licorice root work to hydrate the body and prevent disease, according to researchers at The Angiogenesis Foundation. A glass or two of red wine, which contains the cancer fighting, anti-inflammatory compound resveratrol, can be good for men. “My own advice to folks is about one drink a day,” counseled Butler. “The older you get, the heavier the impact of the alcohol. But in moderation, alcohol not only has a relaxing effect, it can elevate levels of good cholesterol. Maintaining good hydration by drinking water also helps kidneys filter impurities out of the body and keeps skin looking fresher. BE MERRY. The very things that come with being social are good for everyone’s health. According to Butler, simple touching, such as holding hands with and hugging a loved one, works to lower blood pressure. Laughing with buddies helps keep blood vessels from restricting, and thus keeps the heart working more efficiently. Having an eye for beauty in our surrounding adds pleasure to life and helps keep us in a good mood. Engaging in close, loving
and romantic relationships and staying in touch with lots of friends not only increases the quality of men’s lives, but also helps battle depression and heart disease, suggests Dr. Mehmet Oz, a professor of cardiac surgery at Columbia University and a founder of the Complementary Medicine Program at New YorkPresbyterian Hospital. He frequently appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show before becoming host of The Dr. Oz Show.
According to Oz, “The more sex you have—provided that it’s safe sex and with a mutually monogamous partner—the healthier you will be. Men who have sex once a month are at more than two times the risk of heart disease and heart attack than men who have sex twice a week.” Complementing such healthy excitement, establishing a daily meditation practice also helps men stay calm, energetic, positive and more attuned to their own inner wisdom, says Donna Cardillo, a registered nurse who advises healthcare professionals in the Gannett Healthcare Group. “Studies have also shown that regular meditation can lower blood pressure, boost the immune system, improve the body’s response to stress, and even improve sleep patterns.”
Women have to harness their power - it’s absolutely true. It’s just learning not to take the first no. And if you can’t go straight ahead, you go around the corner.
~Cher
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June 2011
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Get a Move On: Five Reasons to Exercise by Judith Fertig The research is in. Getting off the couch and moving away from TV, video and computer screens pays off in more ways than one. Helps maintain a healthy weight: Everyone knows that the more active we are, the more calories we work off, and the more our weight stays at a healthy number on the scale. Improves brain function: “The decline the brain experiences late in life is not inevitable; it can be affected by things like habitual exercise,” asserts Dr. Eric Larson, of the Group Health Research Institute, in Seattle. Larson and his team of researchers published a pivotal study in the Annals of Internal Medicine showing that older adults that exercised at least three times a week were 38 percent less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease. The theory is that exercise not only increases blood flow and oxygen to the brain, it may also reduce the abnormality known as brain plaque that has been associated with Alzheimer’s. Helps prevent diabetes: A study in The New England Journal of Medicine found that moderate exercise led to a 50 to 60 percent reduction in the risk for developing diabetes, and delayed the onset of Type 2 diabetes among those already at high risk. Lowers blood pressure: After reviewing 15 studies on exercise and high blood pressure, the American College of Sports Medicine concluded that moderate exercise decreased blood pressure in approximately 75 percent of individuals with hypertension. Keeps us going: The good news is that exercise—especially the short, intense bursts in circuit or interval training— helps maintain and develop muscles, strength and stamina, according to a recent study in the British Journal of Sports Medicine. 20
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Another way to be and stay merry, suggests Cardillo, is to take part in some kind of volunteer work. “Volunteering has long been touted as a great way to give back and make a positive contribution to the world,” she remarks. “While all that is true, numerous studies, including the recent Do Good Live Well Study, by UnitedHealthcare, have shown that people who do volunteer work for two or more hours a week exhibit lower rates of depression and heart disease, live happier more fulfilled lives and have greater self-esteem and greater functionality, especially older adults.”
spread to this country. Wearing a small counter is a simple way to keep track of how many steps we take in a day. Such monitoring devices indicate how active or inactive we really are, which can be a bit of a surprise. Hatano and his researchers found that most people take 3,500 to 5,000 steps a day. Raising that to 10,000 steps a day will burn more calories, promote better heart function and keep weight under control.
MOVE. Butler promoted moderate
exercise to help improve cardiovascular function, elevate mood and keep men fit longer, and his conclusions are supported by studies by the University of Maryland Medical Center, Arizona State University, and the Erasmus M.C. University Medical Center in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. He found that, “One of the most frightening disabilities of old age, aside from dementia, is frailty.” His prescription? Maintain strong thigh muscles, which is what we use to get up out of a chair or bed, and do squats daily. Yoshiro Hatano, Ph.D., popularized the use of pedometers and the 10,000 Steps a Day program in Japan that also
Recommended Anti-Angiogenic Foods According to the researchers at The Angiogenesis Foundation, many easily eaten foods help starve commonly occurring microscopic cancer cells and keep them from becoming a problem. This list, starting with green tea, continues to grow over time as scientists verify the efficacy of various foods based on a body of research. Green tea Strawberries Blackberries Raspberries Blueberries Oranges Grapefruit Lemons Apples Pineapples Cherries Red grapes www.natallahassee.com
Red wine Bok choy Kale Soybeans Ginseng Maitake or other Asian mushrooms Licorice Turmeric Nutmeg Artichokes Lavender
Pumpkin Sea cucumber Tuna, halibut, flounder, salmon Parsley Garlic Tomato Olive oil Grape seed oil Dark chocolate Emmental, Jarlsburg, or Gouda cheese
GET A TUNE-UP.
Annual physicals are more important than regularly changing the oil in a car, yet men are more likely than women to skip a checkup visit to their doctor, according to a recent poll by Louis Harris and Associates. A growing trend among health centers addresses this concern, offering men a one-stop-shopping-style checkup and testing. Here’s how: Men who aren’t interested in spending a day windowshopping certainly aren’t into a day of appointments to check off a list of simple health screenings. So, special health programs—modeled after executive health screenings formerly accessible only at getaway destinations like the Mayo Clinic, in Rochester, Minnesota, or the Greenbrier Clinic, in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia—are popping up at local hospitals from coast to coast. As part of the men’s health program at Shawnee Mission Medical Center, serving the Kansas City area, for example, doctors emphasize “maintaining optimal performance” versus “let’s see what’s wrong with you.” Prior to an appointment, patients visit a lab location for tests, so that all of their results are ready when they visit the doctor. Then, on the day of their appointment, some additional screenings are performed, if necessary, so the time men spend with the doctor is used more effectively. This personalized, focused attention and all-at-once approach can provide straightforward strategic health planning—a map of diet, exercise and lifestyle targets to aim for in the coming year that can keep men here and healthy.
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Judith Fertig is a freelance writer in Overland Park, KS; see AlfrescoFood AndLifestyle.blogspot.com. She interviewed Dr. Robert Butler before his passing. natural awakenings
June 2011
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fitbody
Barefootin’ Let Feet Go Naked and Natural by Jason Robillard
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any folks, like me, started barefoot running on a whim. In 2005, I was just an aspiring runner searching for some method to escape chronic injuries involving plantar fasciitis, shin splints and back pain. I never expected to fall in love with this revolutionary approach to recreational running. Today, according to the AdWords keyword tool, the term “barefoot running” is searched on Google some 90,000 times a month by those seeking more information, including from websites like guru Ken Bob Saxton’s TheRunningBarefoot. com and my own BarefootRunningUniversity.com. Even the sports footwear industry has taken notice, with most manufacturers adding “minimalist shoes” to their lines that allow individuals to run in a more natural manner.
Ted MacDonald, another mentor to many advocates via BarefootTed.com, agrees, saying, “Barefoot running is about tuning in to your own body’s highly sophisticated set of integrated awareness systems, which communicate through feelings and senses that are being collected in real-time as you move.” Critics of barefoot running point out that no conclusive clinical study has yet been done that contrasts injury rates between barefoot and shod runners. While researchers investigate this dynamic, anecdotal evidence from barefoot runners continues to support the beneficial nature of the practice. Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Joseph Froncioni offers a helpful analogy. He likens the use of the modern running shoe to our re-
Fresh Approach This paradigm shift in the running world has created a new wave of research, focused on the principles of barefoot running. Dr. Daniel Lieberman, professor of human evolutionary biology at Harvard University, has published one of the most influential studies on the topic. In 2010, he and his colleagues discovered that there is no need for the overly cushioned running shoes that have dominated the market for a quarter century. Rather, he concluded, the naked human foot is more than capable of dissipating the forces generated by running. A study published last year in the British Journal of Sports Medicine by researchers at the Allan McGavin Sports Medicine Centre, at The University of British Columbia, in Vancouver, questioned the entire shoe-fitting process. While monitoring women that were training for a half marathon, the authors found that common motion-control shoes caused more pain than neutral shoes that do not control natural foot movement. They concluded that, “Our current approach of prescribing in-shoe pronation [the inward rolling of the foot] control systems on the basis of foot type is overly simplistic and potentially injurious.” Thus, the latest thinking is that wearing a modern, cushioned, motion-control running shoe is not necessarily the best solution for everyone. Trusting our own body may be a better answer. That’s the mantra of the grandfather of the movement, Ken Bob Saxton, a veteran of 77 barefoot marathons. His stance is clear: “Our own feet are our best running coaches.” 22
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liance on baby formula in the mid-20th century. Through clever marketing and the endorsement of the medical community, baby formula manufacturers convinced the American public that their formula was superior to a mother’s natural breast milk. A few decades later, research totally disproved the claim. Of course, there are some conditions under which minimalist shoes can be highly advantageous, such as on rough trails or in extreme temperatures. In these cases, a minimalist shoe that allows the body to run in the most natural manner can work well. That generally means flat-soled shoes without a raised heel, but with a wide toe box that allows toes to spread out; these are typically made of lightweight, flexible materials.
Feet that are mostly confined inside restrictive, padded shoes tend to grow weak and deformed, according to Dr. William Rossi. We can save our children from this fate by purchasing proper shoes that allow freedom of movement. The American Podiatric Medical Association recommends “... lightweight, flexible footwear made of natural materials.” The goal is to wear shoes that do not interfere with natural foot function.
Barefoot Tips For anyone interested in barefoot running, learning about it may be as simple as kicking off your shoes. Most people can successfully make the transition by reacting to the tactile feedback they receive from the ground or other amenable surface. Everyone will benefit from these few basic tips from the experts: n Keep an upright posture n Take very short, light, quick steps n Land on the ball of the foot, and then
gently allow the heel to touch the surface n Keep knees bent and arms and legs relaxed n Be patient; start with a quarter-mile and then slowly increase distance Barefoot running allows individuals to push their limits and reach new running goals. So, try taking your shoes off and have some fun! Jason Robillard is a barefoot running instructor, founder of Barefoot Running University, co-founder of the Barefoot Runners Society and author of The Barefoot Running Book. He also consults for the shoe industry. Watch for news of his family’s cross-county tour this summer at BarefootRunning University.com and their blog, RobillardAdventures.com.
Creative marketing • Strategic networking Public Relations outreach Project management Special events planning Product and service representation DEANNA MIMS
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naturalpet
FITNESS WITH
FIDO Five Ways to Make Workouts Fun
by Joshua Fleming
D
ming builds strength and stamina and is gentle on the joints; it works the body in ways that no other exercise does.
Walking
Dancing is another way to get a groove on and burn calories at the same time. Turn on some tunes and start moving, encouraging your dog to move with you, perhaps even standing on his or her back paws if it feels right. The laughter that results is a whole other form of exercise.
ogs are great at showing unconditional love, being a good listener and offering open paws when a hug is needed; they also make superb workout partners. Here are five ways to bond and get healthy with your favorite four-legged friend. An obvious way to exercise with a canine pal is to take walks together. Vets generally recommend that dogs go for at least one walk every day, and tagging along is a good way to get the 30 minutes of daily cardiovascular exercise that doctors encourage for us. Also, the regularity of a daily walk helps strengthen the relationship between a dog and owner, while developing the animal’s trust and obedience.
Fetching
Many dogs love chasing tennis balls, tree limbs or other thrown objects. To get the most out of a workout, after throwing the object to be fetched, take off after it with your dog. Although the four-legged competitor may win most of the time, running back and forth and friendly competition benefit all.
Swimming
It may be difficult to find a salt pool (avoid chlorine) where pooches are welcome, but shallow lakeshores, local streams and other natural bodies of water can provide enjoyable destinations to take a supervised dip. Swim24
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Dancing
Bicycling
Years ago, bicycling with man’s best friend was dangerous. Fortunately, today we have contraptions that attach a dog safely to a bicycle for a ride and prevent falls when Fido lunges after a squirrel. Bicycling with a dog running alongside is an effective workout for both of you. Exercising with canine pals can be rewarding in many ways, but workouts must be safe, as well as effective. Unless exercising at home or in a fenced yard, dogs should remain on a leash at all times and wear identification tags. Understanding the limits and abilities of a dog’s breed is also important, so that workouts can be appropriately tailored. Now, grab Fido and get moving. Joshua Fleming, a personal trainer and sports nutritionist based in Daphne, AL, is the founder of Victory Fitness, a nationwide virtual personal training initiative. Learn more at VictoryFit.com.
wisewords
get people to engage in, this process of prayer, of looking at the inside instead of the outside for answers. I want them to become what is in their heart and do what they think makes good sense. Can we heal ourselves from the inside out and, in so doing, create a world where we are contributing something good? As human beings, are we going to lift the collective consciousness to the point where we are aware of and actively moving forward to heal the Earth?
REALLY RICH:
Balancing Wealth with Health A Conversation with Russell Simmons by Bill Van Arsdale
R
ussell Simmons is a rare combination of self-made multimillionaire and spiritual guru. Co-founder of Def Jam records, the Phat Farm fashion label and several other business and philanthropic ventures, Russell has just released his second bestselling book, Super Rich: A Guide to Having It All. His idea of “having it all” is not what one might imagine.
As we grow, we experience proofs that what our parents, preachers, prophets and scriptures told us as a child is true: The process of living in the cycle of giving is the thing that makes us happy. We also learn that the outside world separates us from the God inside of us, and if we take that Godlikeness and exude it, spreading it out, then the world gives it back to us. These truths are right in front of us, but we are not taught them enough, or else we forget to remember them. So, the purpose of this book is simply to help us remember.
You present many lessons on how to move toward higher consciousness, while simultaneously allowing for financial success. How can we use our creativity to apply ourselves to something we really believe in without worrying about accolades or financial reward? In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna says you have control of the action alone, and
Courtesy of Gerald Janssen
While you have achieved extraordinary financial success, instead of becoming completely swept up in ego and material things, you have evolved from being the “Godfather of Rap” into a guru. What set you on the path to writing Super Rich?
What do you think that people can incorporate into their daily routine in order to lead more fulfilling lives?
never the fruit. The work we do is our prayer. Going to work every day is God’s work. Finding an entrepreneurial business or another endeavor that you are proud of and inspired to use to give—that’s God’s work. You have to be creative, which means that you have to look inside enough to come up with something that the world needs. You can’t see the whole if you reside on the outside, where others move you around; the inside is where you make your own choices. Success and prosperity are fringe benefits. Super Rich means a state of needing nothing, of operating from a state of Christ consciousness, or Nirvana, or Samadhi. If we can operate from that, then the cycle of giving speeds up. We become a much greater servant because we are good givers, and good givers are great receivers. That is the core premise.
Don’t the pursuits of wealth and enlightenment pull us in opposite directions? Spiritually, we know what’s right, and that is what I am really trying to
Meditation is vital if you want to see the world in real time and be awake enough to make good choices, live calmly, stay healthy and maintain the clarity needed to focus on the task in front of you. You can only realize a state of higher consciousness with a still mind. When you routinely walk around exuding inner happiness, you become what I call very sticky and attractive. Good givers of good will and hard work and service become very successful. The road to enlightenment is paved with rich results. As you give, as you become more enlightened, you become more empowered. Things fall in your lap. Yet, as you become more attractive and sticky, things you thought you wanted become less valuable, until they mean nothing.
Many are rightly alarmed at how humans are degrading our planet. What actions must we take now to pass along a livable world to our grandchildren? The first thing we have to do is stop eating animals, including sea creatures. This is a great cause of many environmental ills currently destroying the planet. We could turn it around if more people would become vegetarians. When individuals take control of their own lives through their meditation and prayer, they will come to all types of decisions that are helpful to this planet and all life. That’s what we want for everyone. Bill Van Arsdale is a freelance writer living in Naples, FL.
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inspiration
The Power of a Father’s Story Letting Your Children Know You by John Badalament
When I ask dads to describe the kind of relationship they want to have with their children, every dad will say without hesitation that above all, he wants to feel emotionally close and connected with them.
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enowned researcher and author John Gottman, Ph.D., founder of the Relationship Research Institute, has concluded that children with emotionally available dads do better in school, have better peer relationships and relate better with teachers than children whose dads are more emotionally distant. Children with dads who are overly critical or dismissing of emotions are more likely to do poorly in school, fight more with friends and suffer poor health. The National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health found that the single most protective factor for reducing behavioral risks such as drug and alcohol abuse, early sexual activity, smoking and depression,is children’s connectedness to their parents;
fathers were noted as being of particular importance. Being known means letting down the walls and sharing your life story —having the courage to show your flaws, fears and joys. This is not to say that one should overburden a child with inappropriate revelations; rather, it’s about giving your child the gift of knowing who you are and what you feel on a regular basis. What was your relationship like with your dad? What were you like as a kid? Children need and want genuine
insights into who you were (and are) as a person, not just as their dad, so that they can better understand who they are and where they come from. It means letting kids into your experiences with winning and losing, being embarrassed and feeling anxious, overcoming challenges, and giving up. What stories are appropriate to share with a child? The short answer is, trust your gut. While there are no hardand-fast rules, here are a few guidelines: n Let your stories emerge naturally and in context. When your daughter loses a game: “Did I ever tell you about what my dad used to do when I would lose?” n Take the lead: “When I was in fifth grade, I was concerned about what other people thought of me. Do you ever feel that way?” n Share stories about your present, too. “Sometimes I have trouble keeping my mouth shut. I was in this meeting the other day...” n Include feelings, not just facts. By revealing your feelings, you help children understand their own. n Be mindful of how a story may boomerang. If you decide to tell your teenage son about your own past substance use, prepare a response in case he uses that information to justify his own actions. n When telling stories about your father, keep in mind that your children have a relationship with their grandfather and do not divide a child’s loyalties. If your father was abusive, seek professional advice before sharing such stories; maybe talk about how you try to do things differently than your father did. Stories are the lifeblood connecting the generations. Excerpt adapted from The Modern Dad’s Dilemma: How to Stay Connected with Your Kids in a Rapidly Changing World ©2010 by John Badalament. Reprinted with permission from New World Library.
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healingways
BYE-BYE, BELLY FAT Strategies to Win the Battle of the Bulge by Anjula Razdan
L
ooking good at the beach isn’t the only reason to flatten our tummies. It turns out that abdominal fat has a major impact on whether we stay healthy and vital or put ourselves at increased risk for several chronic diseases. All of us need a bit of internal belly fat, according to nutritional expert Dr. Pamela Peeke, who says, “We need stomach fat to help cushion organs and maintain internal body temperature; it’s also a good source of backup fuel.” Peeke is the author of Body for Life for Women and Fight Fat After Forty.
Two Types of Fat
Ringing all our midsections are two different kinds of fat: subcutaneous, beneath the skin; and visceral, stored deep in the body around major organs. Each functions differently on a biological level. Subcutaneous, or “passive” fat, requires metabolic intervention from other body systems and glands in order to be processed for energy. Visceral, or “active,” fat functions much like a gland itself: It is programmed to break down and release fatty acids and other hormonal substances that are
metabolized by the liver (it’s also what tends to make a tummy protrude in classic “beer belly” fashion). Health experts Dr. Marie Savard, and Carol Svec, co-authors of The Body Shape Solution to Weight Loss and Wellness, state in their book, “Excess visceral fat can lead to increased blood sugar and higher insulin levels, and it also generates increased inflammation, all of which are the perfect setup for diabetes, certain types of cancers and stroke.”
our bodies can use. “It’s certainly no secret that the way we eat is out of sync with our body’s needs,” writes Floyd H. Chilton, Ph.D., in Inflammation Nation: The First Clinically Proven Eating Plan to End Our Nation’s Secret Epidemic. “Most of the evolutionary forces that shaped our genetic development were exerted 10,000 years ago, when we were hunter-gatherers. Nothing in that programming could have prepared us for the Big Mac.” As Peeke puts it, “Genetics may load the gun, but environment pulls the trigger.” She spent years researching the link between stress and fat at the National Institutes of Health, and says that chronic stress can beget an expansive waistline because it triggers ongoing production of cortisol that, among other things, spurs intense appetite that causes us to overeat; the resulting weight gain tends to settle mainly in the abdomen. Declining levels of sex hormones cause both men and women to develop
Four Factors
There is no single answer to the riddle of weight gain; it involves four factors— genetics, eating habits, stress and hormones. Some of us, says Savard, are destined to be “apples,” gaining weight in the stomach and upper-body region, while others are fated to be “pears,” putting it on in the hips, buttocks, thighs and lower legs. Abdominal fat is produced when we ingest more caloric energy than
Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live. ~Jim Rohn
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a paunch as they age. Even pear-shaped women start to lose their estrogen advantage after menopause. Remarks Savard, “When they gain weight after menopause, the tendency is to put on visceral fat... and transform from pear into apple.”
Strategies
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Potbellies are epidemic, and there is no quick-fix approach. Common spot remedies like crunches might tone back and abdominal muscles, but they don’t address fat stored inside the belly. For that, we need to reduce our body’s overall fat storage. Savard advises against being tempted by crash diets; they sometimes lead to weight gain. She advises that, “Reducing your caloric intake by more than 25 percent simply triggers your metabolism to go into starvation mode, which lowers your [resting metabolic] rate.” Sticking with a sensible, wholefoods diet and moderate, daily exercise will deliver much better results. The good news is that visceral fat, while it may be stored deep down in your belly, is often the first type of fat to burn off. This fat is metabolically active, so it actually works in our favor when we decide to get rid of it. We’ll do better to forget how much we weigh and focus on our waistline measurement, counsels Savard. Losing just two inches there can significantly decrease the risk for a host of illnesses and diseases. “Throw away your weight scale, because health is in inches, not pounds,” she emphasizes. Exercise and nutrition, especially eating small, well-balanced meals every three to four hours, is important, says Peeke, but just as significant is learning how to manage stress levels. “I’ve always looked at the mind in addition to the mouth and the muscle,” she says. While there is no quick-fix approach to losing abdominal fat, thinking holistically and making real lifestyle changes can go a long way toward shedding a stubborn belly. By doing so, we’ll not only look great at the beach this summer, but feel great, too. Anjula Razdan is a Washington, D.C.-based writer and editor whose article here is an adapted excerpt from Care2.com.
ing meditation. It becomes a pedaling meditation, if you will. The focus required in order to stay upright, read the trail and keep spinning is what keeps the awareness centered on what one is doing. Pedaling keeps the rider in the moment. Balance, flow and regulated breathing are all required to ride favorably, and becoming accustomed to each happens easily on a bike.
Inner calm comes effortlessly on a bicycle.
Pedaling Meditation by Melissa Spear Campbell
R
alph Waldo Emerson said “In the tranquil landscape, and especially in the distant line of the horizon, man beholds somewhat as beautiful as his own nature”. When we aim to achieve this gratitude for ourselves, we become open enough to receive the divine goodness which makes life much more meaningful and enjoyable. Much like Emerson did, we too can find these beauties in nature. Our daily lives have evolved into many tasks and responsibilities, which can drain us of our lively spirit. We sometimes view our health, wealth and personal power as objects to attain rather than our innate treasures. We all desire balance and serenity. Sadly, it seems many of us have completely forgotten how to achieve any form of tranquility. Sometimes we forget how to stop, be still and listen. Often we forget how to breathe in and how to surrender. An assured way back to this harmony and balance is through a mechanism so simple that most of us have done it since we were children; riding a bike.
A mountain bike, more precisely.
Being on a mountain bike can be a meditative approach to whole health. Riding shares many similarities with a walk-
When one can ride far enough into the forest to achieve solitude and fully submerge oneself in nature, it allows a feeling of connection to the Divine. It provides a spiritual union and stability that aids in feeling ‘whole.’ When one is fully involved with nature there is a constant reminder that everything in life is precise. The trees and the clouds; the grass and the sky, they all want for nothing more than what they already have. This is what all humans appear to long for, this type of surrender. This understanding invokes the personal power that we seek. To guarantee oneself the time to escape the routines of work and society is to secure stillness. When setting out on the wooded trails one can feel comfortable with letting go of responsibilities for an hour or so, knowing they will be waiting upon return. Once surrounded by the beautiful oak and tall pine trees on Tallahassee‘s finest trails, their magnificence and contentment order silence from their audience.
Personal power Personal power is enriched throughout a ride when one has nothing to hide from or prove to nature. A person’s core becomes strengthened as they learn how to just be - to surrender. Nature gives us enough energy to hold in reserve for future use when it is needed the most; during the times when life poses challenges. Only nature allows the most pure source of energy to draw from, and mountain biking assists in the making of this recipe. Inner strength comes from recognizing what we need and giving it to ourselves. Creating health, wealth and serenity is an inside job that requires reaching a dwelling of peace, and a mountain bike is the perfect device to get us there. Let’s all get out and ride! Melissa Spear is a Tallahassee native, spiritualist, entrepreneur and avid mountain biker. Melissa may be contacted at melissa.a.spear@gmail.com.
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June 2011
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H
air experts estimate that people normally have a maximum of about 100,000 individual hairs on their head. Approximately 90 percent are usually in a growth phase while the other 10 percent “rest.” After growing for two to three months, the hair will fall out and the growth cycle of the follicle, or hair root, starts again. An average person naturally sheds about 100 hairs a day. Under certain conditions, however, the normal cycling can be interrupted. The resting, or telogen, phase could last longer, with more hair falling out and less new hair growing. Some hair loss may be associated with mind-body response to surgery, new medications, thyroid issues, trauma or a highly restrictive crash diet. Hair loss might be the effect of inherited male pattern www.natallahassee.com
baldness or thinning that may accompany aging. In other instances, the cause may be poor nutrition, as attested to by American Academy of Dermatology research.
Start with Nutrition
“The first step in diagnosing a probable cause of hair loss is to check nutrition,” says Dr. William Rassman, an awardwinning pioneer in hair restoration, founder of the New Hair Institute, in Los Angeles, editor of BaldingBlog.com and co-author of the book, Hair Loss and Replacement for Dummies. Other experts agree that including certain key nutrients in our diet can help prevent, and even reverse, some hair loss. “The same foods that are good for your body and overall health are good for your hair, including foods that
are high in protein and low in carbohydrates, with a reduced fat content,” says Dr. Michael Reed, a dermatologist with New York University’s (NYU) Langone Medical Center, in New York City (MichaelLorinReed.com).
Key Nutrition Tips
Generally, a diet that supports both scalp and hair health is rich in protein; vitamins A, B complex and C; minerals like iron and zinc; and omega-3 fatty acids.
Vitamin A: Found in green leafy vegetables like Swiss chard and spinach, as well as in carrots, it helps the scalp produce sebum, hair’s natural conditioner. Vitamin B12: “The requirement for
vitamin B12 is very low,” says vegan Registered Dietitian Reed Mangels, “but it is needed for cell division and blood formation.” Foods such as organic eggs, cage-free poultry and grass-fed red meat are good sources; vegetarian and vegan sources include nutritional yeast (dried yellow flakes or powder, with a cheese-like flavor), vitamin B12-fortified soy or rice milk, and similarly fortified breakfast cereal.
Iron: Samantha Heller, a registered dietitian and nutritionist at the NYU Medical Center, warns women that the potential deficiency of iron that often occurs during their reproductive years can lead to anemia, a reduction of red blood cells that is often an undiagnosed cause of hair loss. Foods like broccoli and brewer’s yeast help boost iron levels.
2011
Omega-3 fatty acids: “Omega-3 fatty acids are important for total body and skin health, and that includes your scalp,” says Heller, author of Get Smart: Samantha Heller’s Nutrition Prescription for Boosting Brain Power and Optimizing Total Body Health. “Many Americans are not getting enough of these in their diets.” These essential fatty acids are widely found in flaxseed, hemp milk and seeds, walnuts, soy, canola oil and fish. Protein: Protein helps the body build many kinds of cells, including hair. Lentils and kidney beans provide a healthy amount of protein, plus iron and biotin, which especially help hair and nails stay strong and healthy, says Andrea Giancoli, a registered dietitian and spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association. Zinc: A zinc deficiency can lead to shedding more hair than usual, notes Dawn Jackson Blatner, a Chicago-based registered dietitian. Zinc is found in all kinds of beans, beef, whole grains and walnuts. “Although eating healthier is always beneficial, that alone may not prevent or stop genetic, hormonal or age-related types of hair loss,” counsels Rassman. His practice has confirmed that more often, genetics are behind male pattern hair loss, which can sometimes start in the teenage years. If nutrition has been ruled out as the pivotal cause, visiting a hair loss specialist is suggested to see what else can be done.
EDITORIAL CALENDAR
June Men’s Wellness
July Living Simply
August Vibrant Children September Creativity October Green Living, Blue Planet November Local & Personal Economy December Uplifting Humanity
Judith Fertig is a freelance writer in Overland Park, KS; see AlfrescoFood AndLifestyle.blogspot.com.
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Creating a Strong,
Healthy and Pain-Free Back by Tara J. Posey, CPT, MS Physical Therapy
C
reating and maintaining a strong, healthy and pain-free back is crucial to living a happy and active lifestyle. Carrying a variety of things can lead to back pain and or back spasms. Doctors say, when pain hits, get moving instead of lying down. You want to loosen any tight muscles and bring blood flow to the area. Before you give your back a workout, get your muscles primed and your heart pumping with a good warm-up. One recommendation is to do the following kickboxing inspired move for a total of 2 minutes. Uppercut: Take a wide stance with feet hip width apart and knees slightly bent. Make a fist with your left hand and hold it up, as if protecting your face. Shift weight from one leg to the other while making a punching motion with the right hand, sweeping from waist to chin level. Imagine hitting an opponent in the chin. Continue the motion for one minute or so, then switch to punching with your left hand. These next three exercises will help ease back problems, maintain your already healthy back or get you where you want to be. 1. Superman on Stability Ball works the mid and lower back. Lie facedown on a stability ball, positioning it in the middle of your stomach, with your feet on the floor. Extend arms straight out in front of you from the shoulders. Contract abs to support the back, and look down at the floor to keep your neck aligned with your spine. Exhale as you lift your arms two to six inches higher than your head. Hold for five seconds. Inhale as you lower your arms to the starting position. Note: If you’re a beginner or have a previous back injury, do this move on the floor without the ball, raising one arm and its opposite leg for five seconds. 32
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2. Seated Row works the upper back and shoulders. Wrap a resistance band around a pole or secured table leg about chest height as you’re seated on the floor. Sit with legs straight out in front of you, knees slightly bent, back straight, shoulder blades pulled back, chest out. Grab one end of the band in each hand, palms facing each other. Hold the back at chest height, and contract abs to keep back straight. Exhale as you pull the handles toward your chest, keeping your forearms parallel to the floor. To get that good squeeze, imagine that you’re holding a pencil between your shoulder blades. Inhale as you slowly straighten your arms, making sure your elbows don’t lock. Note: As your strength increases and this move becomes easier, wrap more of the band around the pole or table leg to increase resistance. 3. Sunrise works upper back. Lie with you upper back supported on a stability ball, knees bent and feet flat on the
floor. Hold the end of the dumbbell that weighs between two and ten pounds, gripping it in both hands with fingers interlaced. Keep abs contracted and back straight. Straighten arms and hold dumbbell above your face with elbows slightly bent. Inhale, and with arms still straight, lower the weight behind your head until your biceps are near your ears. Exhale as you lift the weight back to starting position. Stretching is just as important for the back as is working it out. Cobra is a yoga-inspired stretch that works the entire spine. Lie on the floor on your stomach, keeping elbows and palms on the floor. Keep shoulder blades back and down while you raise your head to look forward. More advanced exercisers will want to push to their forearms and palms against the floor as they exhale to increase the stretch. Hold this position for 30 seconds. Repeat three times. Following these simple back-specific exercises can support a happy and healthy lifestyle for any man or woman interested in a strong and pain-free back. Tara Posey, CPT has owned her own Physical Training business in Tallahassee for 12 years. Her main goal is to help her clients be as physically fit as possible in order to live the best life possible. She is also a co-writer for Healthy Mama, Healthy Baby.com, a website about how to be a healthy and fit mom.
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THE FASCINATORS SERIES
Volume 5:
HOWARD LIBIN by Deanna Mims
H
oward Libin claims to be “an overnight sensation 30 years in the making.” Whether that is due to his belief in building good relationships by being straight up with people, or because he sees giving back as “one of the privileges of being in business,” hardly matters. His generosity and sometimes offbeat approach to business and community involvement have served him well. Howard is this month’s Fascinator for several reasons. If, like me, you have enjoyed some quality time over lunch with him, you probably treasure his irreverent riffs on all topics of politics and world affairs, his wicked and cock-eyed sharp sense of humor, and his
endless, genuine curiosity in everything in his environment. If his name is ringing a bell it may be that you are already aware of Libin from his pithy series in the business section of the Tallahassee Democrat, his appearance in last year’s Celebrity Comic Challenge (he won), or perhaps because of his role as Supreme Commander of his 15+ year old local promotions firm, Adventures in Advertising. With the acquisition of another new promotions company in Gainesville, it is clear Howard loves his work. “I enjoy what I do and plan to do it until I can’t do it anymore,” Libin says. “My work is like my creative outlet. Some people paint – I do business. It’s a never ending constant puzzle that challenges me and helps me learn on a daily basis about our town, our country, our world and gives me a broad palette to paint with.” “I live to serve, in whatever possible way I can, in the context of what I do,” Libin explains. That context includes solving marketing problems for small to medium sized businesses in order to make them more successful. “I consider the fact that so many people who have worked for me have gone on to start their own businesses to be my single most significant accomplishment to date— for whatever small part I may have played in that. I love that I actively do business with many of these former employees turned business owners today.” He was an obvious choice to be included in this month’s Natural Awakenings magazine, as he has a hidden passion for new information and self-discovery. “I want my business to be successful enough to support a life of continual discovery,” Libin explains. “surrounded by good friends I care about and that care about me. The combination of those two things allows me to find joy and curiosity in new ventures.” When asked about what he looks forward to most in life, he says the final charming answer of the interview. “Being married for the last 6 years has really centered me around home, so the chips fall where they may Friday nights and I look forward to every weekend with my wife and friends.” After all, overnight sensations and raconteurs need their R and R, too. A resident of Tallahassee for 37 years, Deanna loves to travel but Tallahassee is home. Deanna Mims is founder and President of MarketDone, a local marketing firm for small business and non-profits. Contact Deanna at 425.5240.
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TURN YOUR PASSION INTO A BUSINESS... own a Natural Awakenings magazine!
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classified Advertisers – up to 5 free listings. Nonadvertisers – $10 each for Calendar of Events listings and $10 each for On-Going Calendar listings. Listings must be emailed to natallahassee@yahoo.com. Classified listings are $1 per word.
Thursday, June 2
Collage – A Self Awareness Process at The Senior Center. 6:30pm. Licia Berry leads students through a process of developing a collage artwork using personal symbols and life experiences. Beginning with small and simple collages that illustrate aspects of your personality, you will then develop a larger more intricate collage from your personal history. 4 evening classes June 2, 9, 16 and July 7. Ten Top Reasons to Shop Local First & Wild Edible of the Month. 7:45 pm-9:00 pm. FREE! Want to become a “locavore”? What does “local” food and farming mean and who is doing it? What are food miles? What is the 3/50 project? Join us at this open forum to discuss these current issues and learn ways you can support your local community while eating healthier and tastier. New Leaf Market, 1235 Apalachee Pkwy, 850-942-2557, www. newleafmarket.coop.
Friday, June 3 Downtown Nights in Downtown Thomasville, 5pm – 9pm. Downtown Thomasville shops & restaurants are open late on the First Friday of every month! Information: 229-227-7020, www. downtownthomasville.com. Tinker Bell’s Magical Adventure by South Georgia Ballet. (June 3-5). A magical show featuring Peter Pan’s beloved fairy. Thomasville Municipal Auditorium, 144 E. Jackson St. Information: 229-228-9420, 229-378-2787, www. southgeorgiaballet.org. Art Showcase Trolley First Friday Wine Tasting. 5:30 pm-9:00 pm. FREE! It’s trolley time! Enjoy regional beer and local cheese as part of your evening on the Art Showcase Trolley. Start at the Co-op or make the wine tasting one of your trolley stops. While you’re here, take a moment to acquaint yourself with our large variety of locally produced items. New Leaf Market, 1235 Apalachee Pkwy, 850-942-2557, www.newleafmarket.coop.
Tuesday, June 7 Law of Attraction & Relationships. 7:45 pm–9 pm ∙ FREE! Throughout 2011 Pamela Chamberlynn’s monthly Law of Attraction classes will focus on using law of attraction skills to create the quality of relationships you want. These skills are not only valuable in transforming difficult and challenging relationships, they also show how you can consciously create and manifest the personal relationships you’ve always wanted, deeply longed for, and know in your heart that you deserve. New Leaf Market, 1235 Apalachee Pkwy, 850-942-2557, www.newleafmarket.coop.
Wednesday, June 8 Keys to the Kingdom Class. 7-9 PM at Unity Eastside. An Advanced 7-Week Course in Building Your Prosperity Consciousness. Beginning
June 8; ending July 27-(Except June 29). Materials include a workbook and a set of CD’s. Cost for the materials is $50.00 Contact admin@unity-eastside. org to register. How to Keep Your Dog Happy. 7:45 pm-9:00 pm. FREE! Did you know that patting your dog on top of the head probably makes him unhappy? Find out why in this informative seminar by Certified Dog Trainer Jean Hewitt. Jean will guide you through some basic principles of keeping your dog happy and answer all your questions on happy dogs. This seminar comes with a free gift! New Leaf Market, 1235 Apalachee Pkwy, 850-942-2557, www. newleafmarket.coop. Eat This, Don’t Eat That: Stir Fry 101. 11:00 am – Noon. The first in a monthly three-part series of totally fun cooking demonstrations that will delight and tantalize you, while also introducing some healthier eating ideas. Offered by Panhandler’s Kitchen. Tallahassee Senior Center 1400 N. Monroe St. 891-4000.
Thursday, June 9 Healthy Skin. 7:45 pm-9:00 pm ∙ FREE! Wendy Creel, naturopath and master herbalist, will discuss our outward organ known as the skin. Wendy will talk about herbs that are used to clear the skin of different diseases. She will also cover daily tips you need to know to keep your skin healthy and glowing. New Leaf Market, 1235 Apalachee Pkwy, 850-9422557, www.newleafmarket.coop.
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 keep it off! For a brochure call 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; Cincinnati, OH; Lexington, KY; Manhattan, NY; North Central, FL; Tulsa, OK; Southwest VA and Volusia/Flagler, FL. Call for details 239-530-1377.
Saturday, June 11 Homemade Baby Food. 9:30 am–10:45 am ∙FREE! As a mother of two young boys, Angela Meredith has been making baby and toddler food for the last five years. Homemade baby food is the best way to introduce your little ones to solid foods while also saving money and reducing your impact on the environment. In this seminar you will learn how to make your own baby food using organic produce and other whole foods. The best methods and tools for preparing baby food, nutritious recipes, food safety, time saving tips, and other tasty topics will be covered. Demo and samples will be provided for baby and parent. New Leaf Market, 1235 Apalachee Pkwy, 850-942-2557, www.newleafmarket.coop.
Sunday, June 12 Niyamas Workshop. 9-12pm. $50. Is there more to yoga than postures? Yes! There are 8 steps to yoga and the first 2 steps (which come before postures) are all about ATTITUDE! Learn about the mind-set that allows you to get the most out of your yoga, These are ways to begin to purify the mind to relieve yourself of the constant stress and agitation that eats away at the peace you could feel....you are meant to feel in life! 222-0291 or joannadevi@earthlink. net www.lakulishyogatallahassee.com.
Monday, June 13 World Ballet 2011 Nutcracker Dance Camp & Summer Program Intensive. June 13-August 13. Ages 4-Adult. Adult supervision provided before 9:00am and after 4:00pm. www.worldballetinc. com. 850.553.3315.
Wednesday, June 15 Epilepsy Update. 11:00 am – Noon. The Epilepsy Association will provide you with the most current and useful information available about Epilepsy and head injury, the causes and the impact on clients, families and the entire community. Tallahassee Senior Center 1400 N. Monroe St. 891-4000.
Friday, June 17 The Primitive Quartet in Concert at Thomasville Municipal Auditorium. 7:30pm. Another Night of Bluegrass Concert Series. Thomasville Auditorium, 144 E. Jackson St. Information: 229-228-7977, 866-577-3600, www.thomasvillega.com.
Monday, June 20 The Power of One. 6:30pm. Planting the seeds of economic development through literacy. Former Tallahassee resident, Carol Kresge, is visiting from Laos, and will be sharing her experiences on building libraries and building relationships. Location: United Church, 1834 Mahan Drive, Tallahassee. Ships Ahoy to the Land of Joy- Summer Camp. This adventure is scheduled for the week of June 20 to June 24 from 9 am to noon. The fee for the camp is $30, and registration and payment are due by June 3rd. If you want to know more, you may contact the church administration office at 656-1678, email admin@unity-eastside.org, or visit our website at www.unity-eastside.org.
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Organic Soil Management Workshop for North Florida Farmers. 8:30 – 1:00 PM, FREE. At Turkey Hill Farm, 3546 Baum Road: sponsored by Florida Organic Gardeners; U of F Professor/Scientists will join local Farmer Herman Holley to provide farm-proven, research-supported practical advice for specialty crop farmers in North Florida. Registration information, visit www.foginfo.org/scbgworkshops. General information, call 352.377.6355 or email education@foginfo.org.
Visit www.natallahassee.com
Tuesday, June 21 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. Yes, students can and will sample their creations! New Leaf Market, 1235 Apalachee Pkwy, 850-942-2557, www.newleafmarket.coop.
Wednesday, June 22 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. Raised on pork and pork-flavored vegetables, Sadiqa knows exactly how challenging it is to cook healthy foods with the delicious flavors you crave. Determined to prepare healthy meals, Sadiqa learned to cook family favorite foods without unhealthy fats, sugars and salt. New Leaf Market, 1235 Apalachee Pkwy, 850-942-2557, www.newleafmarket.coop.
Thursday, June 23 Pain Relief Beyond Belief. 7:45 pm-9:00 pm. FREE! Join Rene Luna, Physical Therapist, as he presents a revolutionary therapy that helps unlock our body’s natural healing power and speeding up recovery. He will demonstrate fast-acting selftreatment to relieve muscular and joint pain. He will also introduce simple maneuvers, specific movements and exercises that anyone can perform in the comfort of their home. For information, call 850 656-3163, email: rrptcrsi@aol.com or visit, www.rrphysicaltherapy.com. New Leaf Market, 1235 Apalachee Pkwy, 850-942-2557, www. newleafmarket.coop.
Wednesday, June 29 Vegetables from the Sea. 7:45 pm-9:00 pm. FREE! Jill Welch, whole foods educator, will demystify sea vegetables. No matter what your health goals may be, sea vegetables can play a significant role in improving your wellbeing. Sea vegetables add valuable trace minerals to your diet and can detoxify heavy metals from your body. Jill will explain the various types of sea vegetables and prepare some delectable samples. New Leaf Market, 1235 Apalachee Pkwy, 850-942-2557, www.newleafmarket.coop.
Thursday, June 30 Iced Coffeehouse. 6:30pm. Come sip coffee or soda and enjoy the fun of Open Mic Night. Bring your voice, instrument or poem you would like to share. Come make us laugh or just listen and enjoy. Please bring your friends, family and neighbors, all talent welcome. Visit www.unity-eastside.org or facebook/ unityeastsidechurch.
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Tallahassee, S. Georgia, Gulf Coast
www.natallahassee.com
ongoing calendar SUNDAY
Unity Eastside Services – 10am Celebration Service and Youth Ministry. 8551 Buck Lake Rd. 850656-1678, 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. Red Hills Small Farm Alliance Online Market, 9:00 AM, weekly call-in orders begin, and continue until Tuesdays, 11:30 PM. Orders for fresh, locally grown produce can be ordered 24-hours-a-day during this time. Pick up Thursdays, 5:00 – 7:00 PM at Bread & Roses Food Cooperative. The yearly sign up fee is $10 per shopper, $25 for farmers who want to sell produce. www.localfoodmarketplace.com/ redhills or call 850-216-1024.
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. 5:30-7pm. 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 -8 weeks, drop-ins welcome. Episcopal Church of the Advent 815 Piedmont Drive. www. lakulishyogatallahassee. com call 222-0291 or email JoAnna joannadevi@ earthlink.net. Brain-Body-Memory Balance. 1:30-2:30pm. Low impact, seated exercise. Taught by Kathy Gilbert. 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/mondayevenings.html. 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. 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. 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. Gentle yoga at Unity Eastside. 10:3011:45am. Drop-ins welcome. Please contact Geralyn Russell at 878-2843 or yogawithgeralyn@ yahoo.com. Intermediate Yoga. 5:30-7:30. Salient principles of yoga and its journey using the Bhagavad Gita as our guide to inspire and arouse interest. 20 minutes of class is devoted to lively discussion to understand holistically the path of yoga. An intermediate posture sequence follows. Please call or email if interested. Drop-ins are not permitted. $90 for 8 weeks at the Sanctuary 2824 Par Lane off Blairstone South. www.lakulishyogatallahassee.com call 222-0291 or email JoAnna 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.
Tibetan Chenrezig Meditation. The Buddha of Compassion. Chanting, prayer and meditation in the Tibetan tradition. Open to all. Meets 7-8PM. Located at the Tallahassee Buddhist Community in Railroad Square, 647 McDonnell Dr. 445-0387. Gentle Yoga. 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 call 222-0291 or email JoAnna 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.
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. 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
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.
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.
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healing
Healing Path Alice McCall To find out how to advertise in CRG,
email TallaAdvertising@naturalawakeningsmag.com
to request our media kit.
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.
CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY
healthy solutions, inc.
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
To advertise your Tallahasse business in
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.
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.
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,
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Tallahassee, S. Georgia, Gulf Coast
www.natallahassee.com
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
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
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
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.
worship
UNITY EASTSIDE
8551 Buck Lake Road, TLH, 850-656-1678 Rev. Jean Debarbieris Owen, Minister www,unity-eastside.org www.facebook.com- unityeastsidechurch
Rev. Jean believes the love of God is unfolding in each person, place, Thing. Join us in Worship: Celebration Service 10AM; Youth Ministry 10AM, noon prayer Wed.
wise father that knows his own child. It is a
~William Shakespeare
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.
Yoga
LAKULISH YOGA
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.
natural awakenings
June 2011
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The Power Of One Planting the seeds of economic development through literacy
JUNE 20, MONDAY • 6:30 PRESENTATION (5:30pm visit and schmooze with Carol, after presentation schmooze and snack with Carol)
United Church, 1834 Mahan Dr., 32308 Info: 878-1598 • www.TheLanguageProject.com
Carol Kresge
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Held at but not sponsored by the United Church in Tallahassee
Tallahassee, S. Georgia, Gulf Coast
www.natallahassee.com