NATampaNov2014

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feel good • live simply • laugh more

Life with Wayne Dyer Serena Dyer Grew Up Expecting Miracles

Empower Yourself

Let Your Authentic Self Shine

Practice Gratitude

Change Your Life

November 2014 | Tampa Bay-Edition | natampa.com

We Fix Your Health...Naturally

301 Turner Street, Clearwater, FL 33756

Are you read y to final ly be as well & healt hy as y ou shoul d be ?

(727) 466-6789

www.lifeworkswellnesscenter.com

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Alternative Medicine COURSES INCLUDE:

Master’s Degree in

Public Health Administration Complementary & Alternative Medicine COURSES INCLUDE:

• Herbology and Botany • Introduction to Homeopathy • Traditional Chinese Medicine

• Complementary and Alternative Medical Approaches to Public Health

• Naturopathy

• CAM Approaches to Disease Control in the Urban Environment

• Ayurvedic Medicine

• Introduction to U.S. Healthcare Systems

“The pace of the curriculum and courses allowed me to earn my degree while balancing work and family obligations, which was the key to my accomplishment.”

– M. Isabel Gugno, Graduate

Sarasota Campus

1.866.907.2262

LAKEWOOD RANCH

EvERGLADESUNIvERSITy.EDU

A LIGHTCENTER IN THE AGNI TRADITION

Shiva Dharma the path to your true self WE ARE MOVING! Meditation Shiva Dharma is relocating to Santa Fe, New Mexico

Retreats

Big Moving Sale 50% on everything!

Enlightenment

October 13 - November 18 (furniture too!)

FAREWELL PARTY Community

November 18, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Fire ceremony, readings, healings as well as time to chat and reminisce.

2838 Beach Blvd. S. Gulfport, FL 33707 Phone 727-327-4111 office.shivadharma@gmail.com

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

24 POWERFUL YOU!

Six Ways to Create the Life You Want

by Judith Fertig

26 MIDDAY PICK-ME-UP Well-Planned Naps Boost Brainpower

by Lane Vail

28 ECO-BEAUTY

Homemade Shampoos, Lotions and Perfumes Make Great Gifts

30 34

by Kathleen Barnes

30 BRING BACK THE MAGIC

Give Kids the True Gifts of the Season

by Meredith Montgomery

33 PRACTICE GRATITUDE and Change Your Life

by April Thompson

34 BEAUTY FOODS

Kimberly Snyder Shows How to Eat for Radiant Skin, Eyes and Hair

by Judith Fertig

36 GROWING UP

WITH WAYNE DYER

Serena Dyer Reflects on Her Spiritual Upbringing

by Lindsay McGinty

40 PLAYFUL PET GIFTS Animals Love Interactive Toys and Games

by Sandra Murphy

43 CELLULITE SHRINKERS Five Simple Exercises to Smooth Thighs

by E.C. LaMeaux

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10 newsbriefs

14 healthbriefs

17 globalbriefs 26 healingways

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28 greenliving 30 healthykids 31 consciouseating 33 inspiration

21

36 wisewords 40 naturalpet

43 fitbody 44 calendar

advertising & submissions how to advertise To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please visit www.natampa.com or contact us at 727—865—9339. Ads due the 15th of the month.

Editorial submissions Advertisers email articles and news briefs to dwilson@ natampa.com. Editorial due the 10th of the month. We reserve the right to edit all submissions if necessary. calendar submissions Advertisers email calendar events to dwilson@natampa. com by 15th of the month for magazine. Everyone go to natampa.com to submit events on-line for inclusion in web based calendar. regional markets Advertise your products or services in multiple markets!

Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 727-865-9339. For franchising opportunities call 239—530—1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

natampa.com

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letterfrompublisher

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elcome to November 2014 and this issue of Natural Awakenings.

We welcome the seasonal weather perfection typical of this month here on the West Coast of Florida. What’s not to love?

Once again, this edition of the magazine is pact with welcome, eye-opening information, events of interest, and more, emphasizing a multitude of ways to increase personal empowerment and beauty in our lives. In “Powerful You: Six Ways to Create the Life You Want,” writer Judith Fertig offers insights from several leaders in the field, revealing steps we can take to become the best version of ourselves possible.

This month’s Action Alert article (page 23) reminds us of the power we have to influence change toward a more sustainable future. In “The Sunshine State Isn’t Solar-Friendly,” writer Linda Sechrist offers insights on solar power resources here in our sunshine rich state. It’s a good read, and can add meaningful dimension to any discussion of solar power’s potential.

The natural health movement is ever mindful of the need to find and implement ways to keep our planet, and the life that calls it home, alive and well. In terms of realizing individual power to effect change, people are joining forces, updating daily routines; reducing reliance on fossil fuel-powered appliances; driving less; embracing tropical heat, turning down air conditioners. As a community and as a state we are affecting the change we want to see.

As always, open your mind and read on.

contact us Publisher/Sales: Debbey Wilson, dwilson@natampa.com Phone: 727.865.9339 • Fax: 727.864.5599 Editor: Cheryl Hynes Contributing Editor: Eleanor L. Bailey Franchise Sales: Toll Free 877—530—1377 © 2014 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.

Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.

We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soy-based ink.

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newsbriefs

Astrology for Your Soul

The Best of Both Worlds, Holistic and Medical

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ermann Wellness is proud to announce that in addition to their South Tampa office, they have opened a second, full service, integrative and holistic primary care office in St. Petersburg, on October 1.

Dr. Anne Hermann is a board certified Internal Medicine Physician, Physician Nutrition Specialist, and Acupuncturist and has published in the field of natural hormone therapies.

She ensures that all her providers are trained to give the same level of care that she would want for her own family.

Hermann Wellness providers work as a team, offering top notch primary care combined with holistic treatments, including nutrition, bioidentical hormones, acupuncture, food allergy testing, vitamin testing, toxicity testing, natural treatments for thyroid, rheumatoid arthritis, symptoms caused by cancer, and pain. They aim to provide these services at costs that are reasonable and they accept insurance. Additionally, the center offers non-invasive cosmetic services and weight loss with a holistic focus.

Hermann Wellness will be hosting an Open House with specials and prizes on November 12 for cosmetic and spa services, and November 20 for medical services, at their 6387 Central Avenue, St. Pete location. For more information, call 727-2783992 and visit DoctorHermann.com. See ad page 16.

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luna Michaels is a second-generation astrologer with over two decades of teaching and counseling experience. At age three, her mother began taking her to astrology classes where she grew up around pivotal astrologers such as Isabel Hickey, Francis Sakoian, Caroline Casey and Robert Hand. By the time she was 18, she was practicing as a professional.

Michaels graduated from Brown University with a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies, and later with a Masters of Spiritual Counseling from Andover Newton Theological School.

Her work uniquely blends astrological knowledge with her extensive study of Soul Evolution and meditation. She offers a balance of intellect and intuition emerging from her passion for astrology and her own strong personal commitment to meditation and spiritual growth.

Michaels is devoted to helping her clients increase their intuition and unveil their soul’s history. She also assists in discovering practical solutions to deep spiritual issues that have created long-standing problems. She compassionately understands each client’s soul journey, as revealed through the esoteric birth chart.

She is dedicated to unveiling their next spiritual steps that will lead to the greatest level of fulfillment and freedom.

Michaels is located in Dunedin near the downtown area. To schedule an appointment, call 727-239-7179 or visit AlunaMichaels.com. See ad page 52.

Daisy Duct Makes Breathing Healthy Air Easy and Affordable

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iving Healthy requires that we eliminate or reduce our exposure to harmful substances and situations. Until recently, indoor air quality was relatively absent from the health and wellness discussion. This has changed considerably over the last few years as more people explore ways to enhance their lives and wellbeing. Daisy Duct’s mission is to improve the lives and health of their customers, many who suffer from asthma or allergies and depend on them to breathe easier and remediate their symptoms.

Mold, mildew, algae, bacteria, and viruses are known to commonly exist in air ducts, where they find the cool, damp environment a perfect place to thrive and multiply. The air in our homes re-circulates through the air ducts hundreds of times a day, collecting contaminants and re-dispersing them throughout the home. Chemicals are the industry’s product of choice to kill the contaminants. But breathing chemicals is hardly a solution to healthy air quality! Daisy Duct uses a 100 percent natural botanical sanitizer to kill all contaminants in air ducts.

Affordable flat rate pricing and prompt professional service are additional components that separate Daisy Duct from others. Customers know the total and final price up front, without surprise hidden fees and upcharges.

Visit DaisyDuct.com or call 727-441-8187. See ad page 8.

Ask the Doctor at Nature’s Food Patch

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r. David Minkoff of LifeWorks Wellness Center will be hosting an exclusive seminar at Nature’s Food Patch in Clearwater.

Titled “Ask the Doctor”, the seminar will enable attendees to do just that—they can bring their medical questions on any condition, from allergies to cancer, to toxicity and beyond, and have them answered by one of this country’s top MDs, specializing in alternative medicine.

LifeWorks’ practitioners are regular speakers at Nature’s Food Patch, but this is the first time a whole seminar will be based solely on questions from the audience. Dr. Minkoff states, “This is a unique opportunity for the residents of Tampa Bay to bring questions about their health and hear about the solutions we can offer at our clinic.

I am really excited to be able to interact with the local community in this way, and it should be a very interesting evening.”

Ask the Doctor seminar takes place on Thursday, November 20, 6:30p.m., at Nature’s Food Patch, 1225 Cleveland St., Clearwater.

For information about LifeWorks Wellness Center call 727-466-6789 or visit LifeWorksWellnessCenter.com.

LifeWorks is located at 301Turner St., Clearwater.

See ad page 2.

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John Newton, Founder of Health Beyond Belief, Visits Florida

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ohn Newton has studied and practiced healing and higher consciousness around the world since 1987. In his twenties, Newton had an awakening that left him in a free-fall of consciousness, and thereafter he was able to enter the gap between thoughts for extended periods. It is in this state where he is able to effect well-being by removing the burdens from our life and ancestral lineage. Newton also assists people in waking up to their true and eternal nature—consciousness itself.

Newton works regularly at hospitals in southern California, and teaches healthcare professionals and individuals worldwide how to implement these techniques into their practices. He treats thousands of private clients, including scientists, doctors, therapists, attorneys, clergy, law enforcement, veterans, professional athletes and entertainment professionals.

During his presentations, he will demonstrate and discuss how people’s lives are affected and physical, emotional, and spiritual health are restored. To learn more, visit HealthBeyondBelief.com.

Meet and experience John Newton at Wings Bookstore, Nov. 6, 7-8:30pm, Group Clearing & Introduction, Love offering; Nov. 8, 7-9:30pm, Ancestral Clearing Group Intensive, $60; Nov. 9, 1:30-5:30pm, Ancestral Clearing & Soul Purpose Retreat, $175. Wings is located at 4500 4th Street N., St. Petersburg, 727-522-6657, WingsBookstore.com. See ad page 11.

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Health Benefits of Honey

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ildflower honey is sometimes known as Polyfloral honey, and in its raw form is sometimes referred to as Goldenrod. When people are discussing the possible health benefits associated with honey, this is usually the kind to which they are referring. In its raw form, Wildflower is believed to help prevent pollen-related allergies, based on the theory that it contains trace amounts of pollen.

Normally, when someone with allergies is exposed to this pollen it will cause an allergic reaction, but because they are only getting trace amounts, there is no agitation. As the body is exposed, it has a chance to develop and adapt to get used to the pollen.

Wildflower isn’t the only type of honey that has health related benefits. While some types are suggested as specific remedies, such as Saw Palmetto being good at preventing prostate cancer, honey in general has several health benefits.

Because of its natural antibacterial properties it is great for the digestive tract as it can destroy harmful bacteria that can cause an upset stomach. These antibacterial properties also make it a common ingredient in skincare products as it can get rid of bacteria that cause unwanted blemishes such as acne.

To learn more, contact Santa Monica Florida at 813699-0303, SantaMonicaFlorida.com, or email Info@SantaMonicaFL.com. See ad page 45.

Couples Adventure and Workshop in Mexico

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ntimacy Retreats.com will host their annual Romantic Beach Getaway in Yelapa, Mexico, January 24-31, 2015.

This unique and very safe fishing village has no roads, no cars, and is accessible only by boat. It is an ideal location for romance and love to flourish under the guidance of Richard and Diana Daffner, founders of Intimacy Retreats.

The Daffners, authors of Tantric Sex for Busy Couples, offer participants a joyful and meaningful way to embrace their emotional, physical and spiritual wholeness. Both ancient and modern understandings of intimacy and relationship are used to help partners connect on a rich, dynamic level. Couples transform their relationship through the arts of Tantra, Loving Touch and Authentic Communication; “Homeplay” assignments allow for reinforcement and personalization in the privacy of their oceanfront lodging.

The natural beauty of sea, beach, river, mountains and waterfalls surrounds a traditional Mexican village, with winding cobblestone paths, small “tiendas” and inexpensive, excellent restaurants. Without cars, everyone walks everywhere.

Couples Massage Training is included in this transformational workshop. Yoga, horseback riding, kayaking, snorkeling, deep sea fishing and other adventures are optional.

Workshop fee for this seven-day adventure is $1345/couple.

Oceanfront lodging is around $90/night.

For more information or a free brochure, visit IntimacyRetreats.com or call 941-349-6804. See ad page 44.

Dr. Cole’s Watering Hole IV Bar at St. Petersburg Health & Wellness

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ith cold and flu season upon us, it is important to keep your immune system strengthened with intravenous (IV) Vitamin C or an IV Myers’ Cocktail.

Holiday travels also expose us to many respiratory viruses, including airborne illness and those spread by contact. Pre- and posttravel IVs can help ward off such illnesses.

The holidays are a wonderful time to celebrate with family and friends, but can also be quite stressful and fatiguing.

Stress is taxing on our adrenals, gut, immune system, and body in general. This can leave you feeling depleted as it gobbles up essential nutrients like Vitamin C, B vitamins, calcium, and magnesium. IVs can replenish many of these important vitamins and minerals. With intravenous administration, one can achieve blood serum concentrations not obtainable with oral or intramuscular routes.

Strenuous sports, such as marathons, can cause oxidative stress and cellular damage. IV hydration is vital to both the performance and recovery process. Enjoying a few too many cocktails? We even have an IV formulated just for hangovers.

Stay healthy this fall and holiday season; make an appointment to get your healthy boosts! St. Petersburg Health and Wellness, 222- 2nd Street N., St. Petersburg, 727-2026807. See ad page 31.

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healthbriefs

Looking at Beautiful Art Bumps Up Brain Activity

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esearchers from Japan’s Oita University have found that aesthetic appreciation of paintings may be linked to altering activities in specific areas of the brain. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of 39 people were taken as they looked at slides of still life and landscape paintings by 19th-century French painters and slides of photographs that closely replicated the paintings.

While the subjects considered both the paintings and the photographic analogs to be beautiful during the experiment—with no significant differences between them—the most beautiful paintings were rated significantly higher than their corresponding photographic analogs in the pre-experimental phase. The researchers cite this as evidence of feeling greater pleasure from the paintings.

The MRIs showed that during the experiment, portions of the brain’s frontal lobe related to emotions, memory, learning and decision making were activated.

However, when the researchers compared the positive effects of aesthetic appreciation of the art paintings versus the photographs, they noted significantly more activity at the back of the subjects’ brains, specifically the bilateral cuneus, a part of the occipital lobe responsible for basic visual processing; and the left lingual gyrus, or ridge, associated with vision, encoding visual memory, logical ordering and dreaming. The findings suggested that these neural structures are associated with the aesthetic appreciation for paintings.

Organics Boast More Nutrients, Fewer Toxins

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onventionally grown foods contain pesticide residues that are three to four times higher than those found in organic foods (traces may be due to atmospheric drift from other fields or soils), according to a review of 343 research studies published last June in the British Journal of Nutrition. The review, which included studies of food grown in different regions and seasons, also determined that organic foods contained higher levels of healthy nutrients such as minerals, vitamins and antioxidants (specifically polyphenols), compared to conventional foods, which also contained significantly higher levels of cadmium, a heavy metal toxin.

The study’s authors found evidence that the higher antioxidant and lower cadmium concentrations are linked to specific organic growing practices such as avoiding mineral nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers, respectively. They commented, “Results indicate that switching from conventional to organic crop consumption would result in a 20 to 40 percent increase in crop-based antioxidant/polyphenolic intake levels.”

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lgae extracts added to natural cosmetics may help prevent cancer. A recent review of research from Taiwan’s Kaohsiung Medical University found marine algae extracts help protect skin cells by reducing oxidative stress, which has been linked to both inflammation and cancer.

The review covered the major algae types of red algae, brown algae (such as kelp), green algae and blue-green algae (such as spirulina). A host of compounds in these extracts were found to provide protection against free-radical damage. In one study, phloroglucinol, a phenol derivative from brown algae, inhibited inflammation among human tissue sarcoma cells.

Licorice Root Reduces Dangerous Fat

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new study published in the journal Nutrafoods has confirmed that licorice extract helps reduce visceral fat in obese adults. The study tested 60 men and 60 women that were clinically obese with body mass index (BMI) scores of over 30.

For three months, they were given either a placebo pill or 300 milligrams per day of licorice root extract. Then they were tested for visceral fat using CT scans and measured for waist circumference, waist-to-hip measurements and BMI scores. The licorice extract group had significantly fewer visceral fat cells, lower BMI scores and reduced waist circumference compared with the placebo group.

Previous research with the extract also showed similar weight-loss effects among human subjects.

Treadmill Desks Boost Job Performance

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n addition to improving fitness, University of Minnesota researchers found that treadmill walking at the desk also boosts productivity and morale. The study tested 40 adults that used treadmills for a year.

Self-assessments, combined with supervisor assessments, found that treadmill walking while working increased performance levels. Work performance improved by an average of 11 percent based on supervisor assessments, and 7 percent based on the employee self-assessments.

A study from Rutgers University tested 66 adults while they walked on treadmills set for low intensity versus when they were seated at desks, with two days separating the tests. Measurements of reading comprehension, attention span and response speed skills and performance show these were unimpeded by treadmill walking when compared with sitting.

photo LifeSpanFitness.com/wps.html

Algae-Based Cosmetics May Ward Off Inflammation and Cancer

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healthbriefs

Lead Lurks in Lipsticks and Skin Whiteners

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ecent research has found several heavy metals in numerous lipsticks and cosmetics. These include mercury and lead in skin-whitening creams, and chromium, cadmium and lead in lipsticks.

Scientists from the Loma Linda University School of Medicine and the University of Arizona’s College of Medicine tested 549 cosmetic skin-lightening products manufactured in 32 different countries. The products were purchased online and from stores in the U.S., China, Taiwan, Japan and Sri Lanka. Thirty-three of the products contained more than 1,000 parts per million (ppm) of lead, and 45 percent of them contained more than 10,000 ppm of lead. Of those purchased in the U.S., 3.3 percent had mercury levels greater than 1,000 ppm.

University of California scientists tested 24 lipsticks used frequently by teenagers and purchased at local stores. They found 75 percent contained lead and nearly half exceeded the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) maximum acceptable concentration of lead for candy (0.1 ppm).

In 2010, the FDA tested 400 lipsticks and found lead in every sample tested— with concentrations ranging from 0.9 to 3.06 ppm. Other studies have confirmed similar findings.

They also found significant concentrations of chromium and cadmium among some of the samples. There are currently no concrete international or U.S. standards for safe levels of these heavy metals in cosmetics.

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Honey and Ginger Beat Antibiotics in Fighting Superbugs

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esearchers from Ethiopia’s University of Gondar College of Medicine have recently found that the use of mixtures of honey and ginger extract can treat drug-resistant bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae. They note that further clinical evaluation and pharmacological standardization of the mixtures are needed before they can be used therapeutically.

The scientists conducted laboratory testing with clinical isolations of five separate superbugs: methicillinresistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Staphylococcus aureus (non-MRSA), two strains of Escherichia coli plus Klebsiella pneumoniae. The inhibition of all five types of bacteria by three common antibiotics—methicillin, amoxicillin and penicillin—were compared with the antibacterial effects of ginger extract, honey and a combination of the two.

The ginger extract and honey combination was found to have the greatest inhibiting effect on the bacteria; however, even the two applied separately were more effective against the bacteria than the antibiotics.

Although in vivo studies are needed, the researchers believe that the honey and ginger extract combination is a promising source for treatment of resistant bacterial strains.

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

Junk Piles

UN Helps Developing Countries Handle E-Waste Although they receive far less foreign e-waste than Africa and Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean are significant and growing destinations for the industrialized world’s discarded refrigerators, small home appliances, televisions, mobile phones, computers, e-toys and other products with batteries or electrical cords.

Adding to the problem, the region’s fast-growing middle class is emulating American consumers by buying more electronic and electrical equipment. According to the World Bank, economic “climbers” grew 50 percent in the last decade and represent 32 percent of the area’s population, surpassing the number of poor for the first time in regional history.

The United Nations’ Bonn, Germany-based Solving the E-Waste Program initiative establishes e-waste academies as valuable resources for researchers, government decision-makers and recyclers. Experts share their experiences and knowledge in developing countries.

Academy Coordinator Federico Magalini, Ph.D., notes, “What’s called a ‘best of two worlds’ approach is needed: efficient pre-processing in developing countries and maximized recovery of materials with proper treatment of residual waste in countries with the best technologies for the job, with proceeds shared fairly and equitably.”

Source: EWasteAcademy.org

Cash Mobs

Collective On-the-Spot Buying Revives Local Businesses In most areas of the country, small, locally owned retail businesses are the lifeblood of local economies, but the rising costs of doing business often means they cannot compete with the lower prices of big-box retail giants that negotiate in volume.

For several years, the growth and frequency of cash mobs have been breathing new life into struggling mom-and-pop businesses. Like a flash mob performing a dance or social protest, a cash mob gathers people together to have a tremendously positive effect on hometown businesses that may have served them and their families for decades.

Most cash mobs agree to meet on a particular day, with each participant committing to spend a specified amount, typically $20 or more. The benefits for local businesses far exceed a one-day influx of cash—new customers are found, previous customers become active ones again and a new appreciation for businesses that fuel a local economy is realized.

Participants can also have a little fun while further benefiting their communities as many cash mobs gather with old friends and new after a shopping frenzy at a local establishment for food and drinks.

Source: CashMob.com natural awakenings

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Golden Years

Fresh, Organic

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Get started today! www.tampabayorganics.com hello@tampabayorganics.com

(813) 949-1112

Senior Roommate Service Combats Loneliness AARP, Inc., estimates that about 8,000 baby boomers turn 65 every day. With longer and healthier life expectancies, many are divorced or widowed and need roommates to have company and chat with; to share living costs and chores; and for emotional support.

Women-only Roommates4Boomers.com founder Sarah Venable says, “I went online to find a service that helps women over 50 find roommates, and found to my dismay that there were plenty of sites for finding roommates in their 20s and 30s, but nothing for boomer women.”

For a $30 fee, the site uses a detailed algorithm to match women not only by location, but by interests, tastes, lifestyles, education, personal preferences and a host of other factors; much like a successful dating website.

50% OFF yOur First bOx promo code: NATURAL

Ka-Ching

Time Is Money, So Bank It Time banking is an updated, Web-savvy version of barter that allows users to accumulate the time they work and then “spend” it elsewhere. Unlike traditional bartering, it’s not limited to an individual transaction. The medium is so fluid that it can be exchanged many times as a form of currency.

Most people do a variety of tasks that others may not want to do or are incapable of doing themselves, such as writing, preparing taxes, babysitting, housecleaning, plumbing or even dentistry. For example, an hour of gardening equals an hour of child care, dentistry, home repair or teaching someone to play chess. The idea is that people trade for what they need and do what they’re good at. Everyone gets what they need by exchanging their expertise.

Time banking works for groups, too. Organizations, agencies, churches and businesses can all become members of TimeBanks USA, formed in 1995, and contribute time, energies, skills and resources.

Source: TimeBanks.org

Tomato Lacquer

Non-Toxic Can Lining in Development Because fresh food spoils quickly, many packaging and preservation innovations have helped to extend transportation hardiness and shelf life. Now, a new bioresin made from tomato plant byproducts could make it safer to eat ubiquitous canned goods.

Led by the Stazione Sperimentale per l’Industria delle Conserve Alimentari (Experimental Station for the Food Preserving Industry), in Parma, Italy, the BIOCOPAC (biocopac.eu/en) consortium is developing a biobased thermosetting lacquer. Most metal food packaging has a BPA-filled liner or chemical-based lacquer to prevent corrosion. While these keep the can intact, they have been linked to deleterious effects on the food inside.

Source: Inhabitat.com 18

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Shark Snooping

Sea-Surfing Robot Tracks Marine Life An unmanned, solar-powered Wave Glider robot has been deployed off the U.S. coast near San Francisco as part of an arsenal of ocean-observing technologies revealing in real time the mysterious journeys of great white sharks and other marine creatures. A new network that also includes data receivers on fixed buoys picks up signals from acoustic tags on animals passing within 1,000 feet and transmits information to a research team on shore, led by Stanford University Marine Sciences Professor Barbara Block.

The technology is central to Block’s Blue Serengeti Initiative, which builds on the Tagging of Pacific Predators project, part of the international Census of Marine Life (2000-2010). “The use of revolutionary technology increases our capacity to observe our oceans and census populations, improve fisheries management models and monitor animal responses to climate change,” says Block.

Shark Net is a free IOS app available at the Apple store, created

by Block and her colleagues to enable a direct, personal connection between the public and wild marine animals, and to raise awareness of the teeming ocean life just off North America’s West Coast.

Source: SierraClub.org

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Eco-India

Strides Promised in Environmental Protection Following the lead of Jadav “Molai” Payeng, an Indian man who singlehandedly planted 1,360 acres of forest, India’s Rural Development Ministry will plant 2 billion trees along the nation’s 62,137 miles of highways to combat rural poverty and youth unemployment and improve the environment, which suffers from severe air pollution.

According to the World Health Organization, India currently has a youth unemployment rate of 10.2 percent and six of the world’s 10 cities with the worst air pollution. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also announced a target of spreading electricity to every home by 2019, relying largely on solar power, and the government is furthering plans to clean up the Ganges and Yamuna rivers.

Source: Treehugger.com

Saying No

Two Countries Buck the Mining Industry The governments of El Salvador and Costa Rica have successfully resisted demands by the gold mining industry, putting long-term environmental protection ahead of short-term financial gain.

El Salvador stopped issuing gold mining permits several years ago, despite high gold prices and the contention by some that exporting gold was one of the country’s few chances to boost economic growth. The majority of its citizens obtain water from one large river system, the Lempa, and gold mining, which uses cyanide as a processing agent, invariably pollutes nearby rivers and watersheds.

The government of Costa Rica has said no to open-pit mining, one of the most environmentally destructive mining methods. Popular opposition surged in the wake of a major accident that led to the closure of the Canadian-owned Bellavista open-pit gold mine.

Source: YES! magazine

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Big Fish

Global Impact Underestimated Whales have long been considered too rare to be the focus of overall marine ecological research, with more attention going to much smaller essential organisms like algae and plankton. However, as whales recover from centuries of overhunting that reduced their numbers by two-thirds or more, scientists are realizing the important role they play in transferring fertilizers like iron and nitrogen from deep waters to feed plankton near the surface via plumes of fecal matter.

A study at the University of Vermont, published in Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment, evaluates decades of research on the ecological role of great whales. Lead author Joe Roman says, “Whale recovery could lead to higher rates of productivity where whales aggregate to feed and give birth, supporting more robust fisheries.” It seems that the longlived whales may even ease the impact of perturbations in climate and buffer marine ecosystems from destabilizing stresses.

Roman states, “This warrants a shift in view from whales being positively valued as exploitable goods or negatively valued because they compete with people for marine fish to one what recognizes that these animals play key roles in healthy marine ecosystems, providing services to human societies.”

Source: EcoWatch.com

ecotip USA Made

The Power of Patriotic Purchasing Buying products that are made in the USA supports both our neighbors and nation. Keeping the entire product cycle within our borders employs more Americans, enhances local and national economic security and ensures greater product quality because American environmental and health regulatory standards are often higher than in other countries. For companies, domestic production can be part of a larger emphasis on supporting local businesses and implementing eco-practices.

StillMadeInUSA.com provides examples of domestically made products in many categories, including personal apparel, handcrafts, household goods, green products, appliances, sporting goods and tools.

About 95 percent of our clothing is now made in other countries, according to the Ecology Global Network (Ecology.com), mostly in China, where sweatshops and human rights abuses are prevalent. Polyester and nylon are derived from petroleum and processed and dyed using synthetic, often toxic substances such as copper, nickel and cobalt. The nonprofit Center for Urban Education about Sustainable Agriculture’s Fibershed and Grow Your Jeans programs (Tinyurl.com/GreenJeansEtc) and the Sustainable Cotton Project’s Cleaner Cotton program

(Tinyurl.com/ CleanerCotton) increase domestic production by assisting and connecting domestic growers and textile makers.

In addition to spotlighting locally made products in its stores with special shelf tags, Whole Foods Market has made more than $10 million in low-interest loans to independent farmers and food artisans via its Local Producer Loan Program. Canyon Bakehouse, a gluten-free bakery in Boulder, Colorado; Buchi Kombucha, brewers of sustainably crafted, Earth-bermed tea in Asheville, North Carolina; and Fancypants Baking Company, makers of 100 percent natural and nut-free cookies in East Walpole, Massachusetts, are examples (Tinyurl.com/WholeFoodsLocalLoans).

Iconoclastic ice cream maker Ben & Jerry’s (BenJerry. com), headquartered in Waterbury, Vermont, conducts a Caring Dairy program that assists farmers to apply more sustainable practices; buys eggs from hens in certified humane cage-free farms; and plans to transform all of its 50 flavors to non-GMO ingredients and earn fair trade certification by the end of this year.

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Celiac and Other Autoimmune Diseases Benefit from Low Inflammation Diet

by Betty Wedman-St Louis, Ph.D.

I

n 2005 the National Institute of Health indicated more than 23 million Americans suffered from autoimmune disease. Today, the projection is 30 million who experience extreme fatigue, muscle and joint pain, muscle weakness, sleeplessness, weight loss or gain, and memory problems as symptoms of autoimmune disorders.

Celiac disease has gotten the most attention in antibody research but the current data on cross-reactivity of antibodies is allowing a better understanding of gluten sensitivity.

Antigen reactivity to alpha gliadin can trigger immune attacks on many individuals beyond those with positive DQ 2, DQ 8 and TTG test results.

Gluten ataxia has been identified not only in people with celiac disease but autism, lupus and multiple sclerosis. The lack of muscle control for movement, speech, eye coordination and swallowing can now be assessed in most autoimmune disorders.

Gliadin reacts with foods and human tissue antigens causing symptoms beyond the gastro-intestinal tract. A low inflammatory diet customized to each person through testing for cross-reactivity or elimination diet protocols is needed to restore a state of health and well-being. (“Low Inflammation Diet” and “Food Elimination Diets” publications are available for purchase 22

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at the author’s website, Betty-Wedman-StLouis.com.)

According to Aristo Vojdani, Ph.D., Professor of Neuroimmunology at Carrick Institute, and Chief Science Advisor for Cyrex Labs, about 50 percent of gluten-sensitive individuals are also sensitive to dairy proteins (cows’ milk, casein, whey), and sensitivity to oats depends on the variety of the grain, not just contamination from the milling process.

In the author’s personal experience, a gluten-free diet has many limitations. The reactivity between alpha gliadin and corn, millet, oats, rice and dairy was denounced as invalid by gastroenterologists and celiac disease researchers.

While at a medical school in Missouri, biopsies did not show improvement in villous atrophy until all alpha gliadin sources and corn, millet, rice and oats were removed from the diet.

Intestinal permeability or leaky gut allows antigens into the blood stream, including food proteins, pathogens and toxic chemicals which cause inflammation. Continuous antigen exposure to tissues and organs is a factor in developing autoimmune disorders. Symptoms develop silently in the gut, joints and endocrine glands for several years. Tissue destruction with T and B lymphocyte reactions are a warning that autoimmune issues are developing during the next five to ten year period until immunosuppressive drugs like corticosteroids are needed.

To reduce the triggers to autoimmune diseases early, nutrition and lifestyle habits need adjusting. A gluten-free diet may seem easier today than ten years ago but current regulations allow up to 20 ppm gluten to be labeled “gluten-free”.

Many gliadin and cross-reactive proteins are most likely still available to create inflammatory symptoms.

Assessing viral activity is key to managing autoimmune disease symptoms. Viral panels for EBV, Lyme, Bartonella, Mycoplasma, Chlamydia, CMV are available. Nutrition management of viral load is critical for the person with celiac disease and other autoimmune diseases.

Reducing toxic chemicals is just as important as omitting gluten. Plastics like bisphenol A, heavy metals, pesticide residues, and solvents all create inflammation. Water filtration devices that remove fluoride, heavy metals and pathogens plus stainless steel water bottles could reduce the body burden of chemicals that influence digestive function, joint movement, and immune well-being.

Dr. Wedman-St Louis holds nutrition classes the first Thursday of every month, 6 p.m., at Peaks of Health Metabolic Medical Center. Upcoming topics include, November 6: Food Frauds throughout the Supermarket and How to Be a Wiser Shopper; December 4: Digestive Wellness—Probiotics, Prebiotics, Good Yeast vs Bad Yeast; Why GMO Foods can Destroy Your Health. Classes are open to the public and free of charge.

Betty Wedman-St Louis, Ph.D., RD, LD, is a Licensed Nutritionist and Environmental Health Specialist, specializing in Functional Medicine Nutrition, Diabetes and GI disorders.

She can be reached at Peaks of Health Metabolic Medical Center, 7600 Bryan Dairy Road, Largo, 727-826-0838.

See ad page 9.

actionalert

The Sunshine State Isn’t Solar-Friendly Expansion of Solar Power is Up to Voters

by Linda Sechrist

A

review of newspaper articles and op-eds on Florida solar from this past summer reveals that the state’s utility companies are avoiding transparency on utility bills; discouraging the use of solar; and reducing both their energy conservation goals and energy efficiency programs, including rebates for the installation of solar panels and power-saving appliances. Concurrently, they are pushing for construction of costly new power plants.

Florida law hinders solar development by outlawing third-party financing of independent power projects. While some states allow solar companies to sell electricity directly to consumers, Florida prohibits it.

Florida power companies have undue influence over the relevant legislative agenda in Tallahassee, according to Power Play: Political Influence of Florida’s Top Energy Corporations, a new report by Integrity Florida. The nonprofit, nonpartisan Tallahassee research and watchdog group reports that since 2004, utility companies have spent $18 million on lobbying to sway state political campaigns and influence the Florida Public Service Commission.

Twenty-nine states have renewable portfolio standards (RPS), which require utilities to buy renewable power and allow for solar installation financing, but not Florida. It also lags far behind in commercial solar installations because it’s the only state that applies a personal property tax on

The 2014 elections will determine Florida’s energy future. Solar can be the solution, but voters must demand it. business solar systems that otherwise would be constructed by retail giants and other large-rooftopped companies.

“The state of Florida has prevented what I estimate would be 10,000 new jobs created by solar companies eager to come to the Sunshine State to get in on the solar bonanza happening almost everywhere in the U.S. except here,” says Neville Williams, author of Sun Power.

Although certain legislators say they are tired of subsidizing solar, the federal government provides $22 in subsidies for coal, oil and nuclear for every dollar invested in clean energy.

Nevertheless, installed solar capacity in Florida has shot up more than 400 percent since 2010 as the cost of raw silicon materials has dropped from $44 to $2 per pound.

Solar electric systems, formerly installed for $50,000, now cost $18,000. Numerous large solar arrays are being built in Florida territories served by electric co-ops or municipal power companies, and Florida Power & Light (FPL) has installed more solar power than any other American utility.

Since 2004, per capita electricity use in Florida has fallen nearly 12 percent. While the state’s economy and population are growing, power demand is not. Duke Energy, Tampa Electric Co. and FPL propose that the solution for projected energy needs is building more power plants, but freeing up energy markets would reduce the need for more power plants run by imported fossil fuels.

The 2014 elections will determine Florida’s energy future one way or the other, and the battle for a sustainable future crosses party lines. Nationwide, many conservative organizations are among those that have joined the Sierra Club, Greenpeace and progressive solar organizations to fight for energy independence. Sunshine could make Florida energy independent, too, according to the Florida Solar Energy Center and the Florida Alliance for Renewable Energy. But Floridians will have to demand it.

Visit the Florida Solar Energy Industries Association for a list of solar-friendly election campaigns at flaseia.org or call 407-339-2010.

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Physical Health Work

Relationships You

Spirituality

Physical Health Finances

Emotional Health

Powerful You! Six Ways to Create the Life You Want

by Judith Fertig

P

ulitzer Prize winner Anna Quindlen had reached the top of the New York Times bestseller list more than once, yet she relates in her memoir, Lots of Candles, Plenty of Cake, that she also yearned to be able to do a headstand, but felt she didn’t possess the necessary sense of balance.

“That’s just a little story you tell yourself,” advised her personal trainer.

Our bodies, Quindlen observes, are major appliances that deliver decades of faithful service with precious little downtime. She admits, “If the human body had a warranty, mine would have run out ages ago.” Still, she clung to a vision: “I want to be strong; strong enough to hike the mountain without getting breathless, strong enough to take a case of wine from the deliveryman and carry it to the kitchen.”

Quindlen, who lives in New York City and New England, was also maintaining an incorrect belief: It wasn’t her sense of balance that was holding her back, it was fear.

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As workshop leaders, they encourage participants to transform limiting beliefs, determine what is meaningful for them, construct a compelling vision from that insight and then find ways to manifest that vision. They address six key areas in which to become more powerful and realize our personal best:

After two years of trying, she was able to do a headstand. Along with a sense of accomplishment, this quirky achievement was a revelation as she ultimately concluded, “If I can do one thing like that, perhaps there are others.”

Take a Stand

Personal empowerment is all about taking a stand—developing the vision, countering misguided beliefs, having a plan and then moving forward to be the best version of one’s true self.

David Gershon and Gail Straub, of West Hurley, New York, authors of Empowerment: The Art of Creating Your Life As You Want It, contend that empowerment always starts with a desire for a better life. “We need to learn how to dream, how to boldly and courageously reach for our highest visions,” says Straub. “Start with what’s working already and the vision of what life can be.” She likens self-empowerment to “spiritual surfing, riding the wave where the energy, momentum and passion are.” www.natampa.com

First, recognize what we’re already doing right—eating well, perhaps, or exercising—and then add another healthy activity. Cardiologist Suzanne Steinbaum, director of New York City’s Lenox Hill Hospital’s Women and Heart Disease, underscores that much of physical health is within our personal control. “Many lifestyle factors keep us from being physically healthy enough to lead a full life,” she says, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, lack of exercise, poor diet, excessive alcohol consumption or drug use, stress and depression. “The good news is that lifestyle factors are within our power to change.”

Steinbaum recommends starting small by changing one bad habit and then seeing how we feel. “Quit the diet soda or the sugar-sweetened beverages. Get rid of potato chips. Go for a walk. Then breathe… and just listen to how you feel.”

Emotional Health

Our emotions can be allies in achieving personal empowerment, advises Straub.

For example, fear can alert us to danger; joy can remind us to be grateful. However, when emotions cause pain and threaten derailment, it’s important to understand why, and then work through it.

“Uncomfortable emotions let us know there is a problem to attend to, a wound to work on, thus allowing us to see our own truth,” explains don Miguel Ruiz, Jr., of San Diego, California, author of The Five Levels of Attachment. “With awareness, we can observe our uncomfortable emotions, as they may be showing a belief we are holding that is no longer true for us.”

“To work through our emotions, we have to be able to accurately sense what we are feeling and be able to express it in a healthy way,” adds Straub, like expressing anger after a tough commute by punching a designated pillow or shouting into a closet.

Furthermore, “We need to change the

belief we’ve identified that’s causing the painful emotional response.” Did the guy that cut us off in traffic really do it maliciously? Third, learn to let go of a negative emotion that’s automatically triggered when someone or something presses our “hot button” by immediately considering, “He must have been in a big hurry,” realizing it’s their problem, not ours, and declining to make it ours.

Achieving greater emotional calm is a huge step toward personal empowerment.

Relationships

Acting on heartfelt emotions can help forge stronger and healthier relationships. “Sometimes, we say yes to a false image of ourselves or hide who we are in order to be accepted,” counsels Ruiz, noting that not presenting our authentic selves in relationships will weaken or replace true intimacy with a sense of loneliness and distance. “Say, ‘I forgive, I accept and I let go.’” This paves the way to being genuine, which naturally leads to greater unconditional love and more fulfilling and honest relationships.

In romantic relationships, life coach Martha Beck, Ph.D., author of Finding Your Way in a Wild New World: Reclaiming Your True Nature to Create the Life You Want, suggests ditching the image of two people looking soulfully into each other’s eyes. “Realize that you’re both changing all the time,” she says. Instead, envision two people walking side-byside at the same pace, and a relationship that will continue to refresh and move forward, instead of getting stuck in well-worn patterns.

ognize and develop our best competencies in order to equip ourselves to both withstand economic adversity and help push our careers forward.

Finances

Fiscal self-empowerment involves cultivating the confidence that we will be able to obtain more money when needed. Beck maintains that anyone can create abundance that lasts. “Where people believe they get abundance, they will,” she says, as in friendships or creative problem solving.

It’s the mixed internal messages of, “I need more money,” with, “There’s not enough to go around,” that can block the flow of abundance in our lives.

Beck, who lives in San Luis Obispo, California, recommends throwing a “neurological toggle switch” to turn off the “lack-and-attack” part of our brains and turn on the “everything-is-going-tobe-all-right” area. This is realized through slowing down, relaxing and meditating.

Spirituality

Following all of these first five steps also helps enhance our spirituality. Dennis Merritt Jones, of Simi Valley, Califor-

nia, author of the new book, Your (Re) Defining Moments: Becoming Who You Were Born to Be, calls it “being pulled by vision,” rather than being pushed by pain.

The motivational speaker believes that every encounter, event or circumstance is a portal to a redefining moment—a chance to connect with our authentic self.

Jones cites seven characteristics of the authentic or timeless self: realizing our oneness in life, reverence for that life, fearlessness because we know we’re part of something bigger, integrity, humility, equanimity and unconditional love.

“When these qualities become the norm in our daily lives, we’ll know we are living from the authentic self,” he says.

Jones urges us to live “more vertically.” He explains, “We exist on what I call the surface of life, a horizontal pathway where we go about our daily routines. We often don’t hear the siren call from the depths of our being because we are so busy ‘doing’. It’s the authentic self that’s eternally calling us to be who we were born to be.”

Judith Fertig blogs at AlfrescoFoodAnd Lifestyle.blogspot.com from Overland Park, KS.

Work

Capability is one of the new guiding principles for self-empowerment at work, says Haydn Shaughnessy, a fellow at the University of California-Irvine’s Center for Digital Transformation and co-author, with Nicholas Vitalari, of The Elastic Enterprise. “It’s more about a broad-stroke capability,” he claims, such as public speaking, writing or troubleshooting and fixing machinery. Capability means a strong skill that can be fine-tuned for a specific circumstance; a talented generalist, rather than a narrow specialist.

Shaughnessy recommends that we recnatural awakenings

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healingways

Midday Pick-Me-Up Well-Planned Naps Boost Brainpower

by Lane Vail

S Office hours: Mon. - Fri. 8am - 6pm Sat. 8am - noon Appointment hours vary

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238 E. Bearss Ave. Tampa, FL 33613 (located at the NE corner of N. Florida Ave. and Bearss Ave.)

www.animalalternatives.org 26

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leep, along with nutrition and exercise, shapes the backbone of overall health, yet 40 percent of Americans get an insufficient amount, according to a recent Gallup survey, and the potential health risks are considerable. “Sleep deprivation affects every organ system and disease state,” and is associated with higher rates of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, cancer and mortality, says Michael Breus, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist in Scottsdale, Arizona, and founder of TheSleepDoctor.com.

“It’s best to get seven to eight hours of sleep in one big block at nighttime,” counsels Breus. Yet the circadian rhythm dictates two peaks of sleepiness every 24 hours—one in the middle of the night and another 12 hours later, says Dr. Lawrence Epstein, director of the sleep medicine program at Boston’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital.

Interacting with the circadian rhythm is the homeostatic rhythm, which causes greater sleepiness the longer we’re awake. Both circadian and homeostatic sleepiness elevate by mid-afternoon, resulting in the familiar 4 p.m. slump.

Siesta cultures split sleep, notes Epstein, slightly reducing nighttime sleep, but devoting time midday to nap.

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“Naps are a double-edged sword,” observes Epstein. While they help relieve short-term sleepiness, poorly planned naps can perpetuate an unhealthy cycle of daytime sleepiness and nighttime wakefulness. Stepping outside for 10 minutes of sunlight and fresh air can stamp out sleepiness, says Breus, which is much healthier than reaching for a caffeine jolt or sugary snack.

Be a Better Napper

A study published in the Journal of Sleep Research suggests that merely falling asleep may initiate memory processing and cognitive consolidation, helping explain why German scientists found even six-minute naps to be rejuvenating. If substantial daytime sleep is needed to overcome a deficit, strive for 90 to 110 minutes, the length of time needed to complete a full sleep cycle.

Here are other practical tips.

Reflect on the rationale. “Boredom, laziness or avoiding work are the wrong reasons to nap,” says Amanda Chan, managing editor for healthy living at The Huffington Post, which instituted two cozy nap rooms in its New York headquarters after founder Arianna Huffington collapsed from exhaustion several years ago. A quick pick-me-up

to boost mental agility and mood is a reasonable excuse to snooze.

Plan a prophylactic nap. Forestall late afternoon fatigue by napping between 1 and 3 p.m. Waiting until early evening to nap can interfere with nighttime sleep, advises Epstein.

Embrace darkness, coolness and quietude. Melatonin, “the key that starts the engine of sleep,” is suppressed by even the slightest amount of light, so wear eyeshades, suggests Breus. Keep a blanket and earplugs handy.

Lie down. If a bed or couch is unavailable, try napping on a yoga mat on the floor. A chair should be reclined to support the lower back and avoid straining the neck from “bobblehead” syndrome, says Breus.

Power down. Setting an alarm for 10 to 25 minutes allows time for only the first two sleep stages: falling asleep and light sleep. Breus explains that sleeping longer than 25 minutes triggers deep sleep, from which waking results in sleep inertia, or grogginess, that impairs mood, decision-making and motor skills.

“Sleep is never a waste of time if it’s helpful.” ~ Dr. Michael Breus Napping at Work

While many progressive businesses such as Google, Apple and Zappos permit or even promote workplace napping, most companies are still skeptical.

“We live in a culture that minimizes the importance of sleep,” comments Epstein. “We prize productivity and think it shows worker loyalty to put in excessive amounts of time.”

Ironically, mounting research suggests that napping may boost the brainpower needed to function at peak performance. A recent study found that nightshift air-traffic controllers that napped for 19 minutes showed better vigilance and reaction times than nonnappers. Other documented benefits include better concentration, memory and creativity.

Seek out a sleep sanctuary at work, such as an office with the door closed and blinds drawn, an unused conference room with a couch, or a first-aid office cot, suggests Chan. Another option is to nap in the car, but Breus insists that nappers tell colleagues where they’re going as a precaution. Better yet, bond with a “nap buddy” willing to read nearby during snooze time.

“You’re very vulnerable when you’re asleep,” he says. “Be safe.”

If sleeping is not currently condoned in the workplace, consider approaching the human resources department with information on the positive effects of appropriate napping on work performance, says Epstein.

Suggest implementing a sleep wellness program, which can offer education on sleep deprivation, techniques to improve sleep and individual screening for sleep disorders.

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

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greenliving

Eco-Beauty Homemade Shampoos, Lotions and Perfumes Make Great Gifts

by Kathleen Barnes

M

any of us have grown disenchanted with expensive, commercial beauty products that include toxic and even cancer-causing ingredients. Fortunately, safe, natural and affordable alternatives—including homemade shampoos, conditioners, moisturizers, bath salts, body scrubs and butters—are stocked at many natural grocers and health food stores.

We all want to avoid phthalates, cetyl alcohol, triclosan, sodium laureth sulfate, parabens and many other poisonous chemicals commonly found in lotions, creams, scrubs, oils, perfumes and makeup products that may not be listed on labels. “You want to know what’s in your product,” says Janice Cox, of Medford, Oregon, the bestselling author of Natural Beauty at Home and Eco-Beauty. “If you’re making your own, you’re in control.”

Cox remarks, “Ingredients are absorbed through the skin, our largest organ. It’s why some medicines like birth control, pain relief and nicotine

patches are effectively applied externally; it’s also why toxic ingredients placed on our skin can be so harmful.”

Her recommended solution is simple: The kitchen cabinet harbors solutions to the dry and dull skin that plagues many this time of year, shampoo residues that result in drab hair, and less-than-glowing skin due to a suboptimal holiday diet.

“Many products require only one or two ingredients and take minimal time to make,” says Cox. “Plus, they cost only pennies. Who wouldn’t choose that over a $30-an-ounce mysterious chemical soup?”

Honey is a Cox favorite for several reasons, including its antimicrobial effects: a dab on a blemish or insect bite can zap it overnight. “Honey has high potassium content, making it almost impossible for bacteria to survive in,” she explains. It’s also a good source of B vitamins thiamine, niacin, riboflavin and pantothenic acid, plus minerals like

iron, zinc and manganese. In this case, what’s absorbed through skin is literally nourishing our body’s entire system.

Honey is also a powerful humectant, helping to prevent loss of moisture from skin and hair. Cox recommends dropping a tablespoon or two in a warm bath to soothe rough skin without stickiness, a conditioning mixture of honey and olive oil to produce silky hair and an applehoney toner to facilitate glowing skin.

She also recommends an easy shampoo that contains nothing more than natural soap (like Dr. Bronner’s), water and a little vegetable oil for dry hair. “It doesn’t foam up like commercial shampoos, but it gets hair much cleaner,” she advises.

Homemade beauty products are a natural outlet for anyone that loves to cook or craft. Make a small batch—experiment with an array of essential oils to create a preferred scent to suit individual tastes, and add or subtract the amounts according to skin and hair types.

“Take it a step further and make pretty gift packages with glass bottles, jars or tins embellished with ribbons, personal artwork or anything else that taps into your creative juices,” says Cox. “Your friends and family will be especially happy to receive and use them.”

Kathleen Barnes is the author of numerous natural health books and publisher at Take Charge Books. Connect at Kathleen@KathleenBarnes.com.

Simple Natural Beauty Ingredients for Home Treatments: n Honey is perfect for conditioning dry, damaged hair and rinses out easily. n Sour cream makes a great facial mask for softening and cleansing a dull complexion. n Green tea is packed with antioxidants and tones skin with no need to rinse off. n Oatmeal can be used instead of soap to cleanse all skin types. n Pineapple juice soothes tired feet and softens rough patches. n Baking soda works head to toe as a hair rinse, facial scrub and bath soak. n Olive oil in a nail soak keeps nails clean, flexible and strong.

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Muscle-Soothing Bath Salts Yields 24 ounces This is the perfect bath to relax and refresh the whole body. Add a few drops of essential oils to the mixture for scent.

Mix together all ingredients and pour into a clean container. Massage a tablespoon or two at a time all over the body to gently exfoliate and moisturize skin.

Body Butter Yields 4 ounces

1 cup kosher or sea salt 1 cup baking soda 1 cup Epsom salt

This is a rich, buttery cream that makes a wonderful all-over body cream. It contains four well-known skin conditioning oils.

Mix together all ingredients and pour into a clean, dry container. Pour one cup of the mixture into a warm tub slowly, allowing the salts to dissolve completely. Soak for at least 20 minutes, but no more than 40 minutes.

¼ cup grated cocoa butter 1 Tbsp coconut oil 2 Tbsp light sesame oil 1 Tbsp almond oil 1 Tbsp grated beeswax

Raw Sugar Body Scrub Yields 10 ounces Raw sugar is well-suited for freshening skin. Using a body scrub helps rid skin of surface impurities, enabling it to retain more moisture and look healthier.

It also boosts circulation, which energizes the whole body.

1 cup raw sugar ½ cup light oil, such as almond or sunflower ½ tsp vitamin E oil

or damaged, include it. This is a great shampoo for all hair types because it’s gentle on hair and won’t strip away the natural oils.

Combine all the ingredients in a heat-resistant container. In the microwave or on the stovetop using a double boiler, gently heat until the mixture just begins to melt.

Remove from heat and stir well until the wax and cocoa butter are melted and all ingredients are mixed together. Pour into a clean container and allow it to cool completely. Spread a small amount of the body butter on the skin.

Basic Shampoo Yields 8 ounces If hair is oily, the optional vegetable oil may be omitted, but if hair is dry

½ cup water ½ cup mild natural liquid soap (like Dr. Bronner’s or any Castile soap) ½ tsp light vegetable oil (optional) Gently stir all the ingredients together, being careful not to beat the mixture or it will create foam. Pour the shampoo into a clean plastic container. Shampoo as normal, and then rinse well with cool water.

Recipes courtesy of Janice Cox, author of Natural Beauty at Home, Natural Beauty for All Seasons, Natural Beauty from the Garden and Eco Beauty.

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healthykids

BRING BACK THE MAGIC

Give Kids the True Gifts of the Season

by Meredith Montgomery

A

ccording to a poll by the Center for a New American Dream in 2005, three out of four Americans wish the holidays were less materialistic. Traditionally rooted in family, faith and joy, the season can be marred by commercialization. Instead, inspire the whole family to take a “buy less, get more” approach so that everyone can experience the essence of what many consider the most wonderful time of the year.

Raise Awareness

The Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood (CCFC) reports that U.S. companies now spend about $17 billion annually marketing to children, up from $100 million in 1983.

Many kids are formulating wish lists year-round, due to the continual bombardment of alluring commercials. CCFC Associate Director Josh Golin attests that the holiday season is a perfect time to start discussing the power of advertising and the techniques used. Teens are especially sensitive to the notion of being manipulated by adults.

For children under 8 that can’t yet comprehend the persuasive intent of commercials, limit screen time with all devices. Golin advises that the scope of commercialism has changed radically. “It’s no longer just television commercials, but also Internet, cell phones and video games. Plus, children’s media characters are placed on every type of product imaginable. Think about limiting commercialism in all forms; you can’t just turn off the TV.”

Manage Expectations

Start before the holidays. “Talk to kids about how you’ll celebrate the holidays in your own home, noting that it might be unique. Focus on aspects that aren’t gift-related,” suggests Golin. Plan food-focused traditions such as baking together and special group meals. Generate excitement around 30

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spiritual aspects of the season or visits from out-of-town family members.

When shopping together for gifts, make a plan and stick with it, letting everyone know its purpose beforehand. Resist impulsive purchases trumpeted by store promotions.

Connect with Kids

New American Dream’s Simplify the Holidays guide at Tinyurl.com/SimplifyTheHolidays encourages families to reconnect by participating in meaningful activities such as neighborhood caroling, building a gingerbread house, preparing gift boxes for the homeless, taking a nature hike or making a feeder for backyard birds.

Explore volunteer projects as a family, letting the children’s interests lead. If kids are attracted to water, pick up litter along a shoreline. In the spirit of the season, donate gently used clothing, books and toys to a shelter. For animal lovers, contribute time or materials to a local animal rescue or rehabilitation center.

Attend community events such as musical performances, plays and art exhibits. Seek out inexpensive or free local activities. Kids are often enthralled by a simple tour of neighborhood Christmas lights.

Gift Buying

Make gift purchases consistent with the family’s values.

Golin suggests resisting the temptation to buy the season’s “hot” products. “Resist buying what’s advertised the most.

We have power as parents and as part of a larger culture to believe there’s no such thing as a must-have toy or holiday gift.” Instead, search for timeless, high-quality items that are eco-friendly and fair trade. Try wooden toys for babies and toddlers or a bamboo skateboard for teens.

Ads can make a toy look appealing because it’s brandnew and ready-to-use, but homemade gifts can be a more meaningful alternative. New American Dream suggests constructing a rope swing or wooden sandbox for little ones.

Given a comfortable timeframe, children can gift grownups homemade green cleaning products or re-potted herb and houseplant clippings. All ages can give away the last book they read and kick off a year-round book exchange. Forego more tangible items by gifting experiences like a zoo membership, bowling gift cards or movie tickets, or make a charitable donation to a cause that the recipient supports.

Let friends and family make shopping easier by inviting them to create such a gift registry at SoKindRegistry.com.

Unplug

Always plan for quiet time. It reduces exposure to holiday marketing, creates opportunities for family bonding and fosters independent children. Golin observes, “We can all be better about trusting our kids to entertain themselves. When reducing screen time, we don’t necessarily need to suggest activities to kids. Give them the space to be bored for a minute and be amazed at what they come up with on their own.”

Meredith Montgomery publishes Natural Awakenings of Mobile/Baldwin, AL (HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com). natural awakenings

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Got Anxiety?

Read this.

by Kerry Knesl, LCSW

• Practice deep breathing techniques.

• Exercise—even 10 minutes of moderate exercise can help to improve your mood. Your body will produce endorphins which are the body’s feel good chemicals and reduce cortisol which is the body’s stress hormone.

• Reduce caffeine and junk foods. Eliminate alcohol and drug abuse.

• Take mental breaks—if you find that you are stuck with negative thoughts and are having trouble changing the channel, change your environment. Sometimes, moving to another room or taking a walk outside can help you stop your negative thoughts.

• Use positive self-talk. Stop yourself when you begin to say something negative and reframe it in a more positive light.

• Use meditation and positive imagery.

• Prioritize your responsibilities and make lists so you don’t feel so overwhelmed.

• Call on your support group when you need a little extra help.

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our heart is pounding, you feel shaky, your palms are sweaty and your stomach is in knots—sounds like you may be experiencing anxiety! Almost everyone has felt a little anxious at one time or another, whether it is a big interview, a blind date or having to give a speech in public. Anxiety can be expected in certain life situations but can sometimes get out of hand. Here are a few techniques to help manage mild anxiety:

• Practice progressive muscle relaxation technique which is systematically tensing and relaxing muscles.

Sometimes anxiety can become more severe or last longer than expected. Approximately 40 million adults suffer from anxiety annually, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Anxiety can often trigger feelings of fear, frustration and a sense of being out of control. For some, it may be hard to leave the house if it gets worse and there’s a fear of having a panic attack in public. It’s best to seek treatment before anxiety begins to affect personal relationships, work and everyday life.

Treatment for anxiety can vary depending on preference of the individual. Counseling alone or in combination with medication management can be very beneficial. Unfortunately, many individuals try to self-medicate with alcohol and drugs which only mask the symptoms temporarily and can lead to further problems. Anxiety may also occur with depression or other mental health issues which would also need to be addressed by a mental health professional.

There are several counseling techniques that can be used to ease and eliminate symptoms of panic and anxiety. Psychotherapists can help patients explore the root cause and possible triggers for their anxiety in a safe setting and teach coping strategies to reduce the anxious response. Cognitive behavioral techniques can be effective in changing distorted thoughts and unproductive behaviors connected with the anxiety. Whatever strategy your mental health professional employs, the result should be a decrease or elimination of symptoms and a calmer, happier you!

Kerry Knesl is a graduate of Florida State University, magna cum laude, with her Bachelor of Science degree in psychology. She received her Master’s degree in clinical social work from the University of Central Florida. Knesl has been a licensed clinician since 1999 and lives in South Tampa with her husband and three children. Her counseling practice is located at 105 South Albany Avenue, Tampa, 813-468-5858.

See ad page 53.

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inspiration

Practice Gratitude and Change Your Life

by April Thompson “I have started a gratitude journal that I write in every day. When you run out of the ‘obvious’ blessings, it makes you dig deep and see all the small things. I commit to do my very best to never take anything or anybody, good or bad, for granted.” ~ Lisa Henderson Middlesworth “A town can be such a blessing. Neighbors always pull together when there’s a tragedy or natural disaster. The boundaries diminish and yards become one... we eat in each other’s kitchens, supervise each other’s children, share vehicles and generally watch out for each other. I believe it is God’s way of reminding us that we’re one family and each of us provides the strength and foundation for the other.” ~ Colleen Epple Pine

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iddlesworth “Feeling gratitude “In many cases, it was the most significant conversaand Pine are and not expressing tion we ever had.” among thouGratitude is a small act sands adopting a Gratiit is like wrapping with a big payoff, Green tude Challenge to help a present and observes. “The person develop their gratitude receiving gratitude apprecireflex and cultivate a not giving it.” ates knowing they made more positive outlook a difference, but the giver on life. Gratitude can ~ William Arthur is the greatest recipient. It take many forms, but typically participants feels good to express gratiWard tude, plus you are freed pledge to reflect upon from future regrets that you didn’t express and express it daily with the help of email prompts from a sponsoring orga- it when you had the chance.”

Patricia Brugioni, a Christian Scinization. A gratitude practice can help grow appreciation for the strangers that ence nurse from Chicago, has been sharing three things she’s grateful for better our lives. It can also deepen our on social media on a daily basis since gratefulness for the significant others taking a five-day online challenge earwe sometimes take for granted. lier this year. “I am a grateful person

Approaching a milestone birthday, retired businessman Walter Green set out by nature, but now I am claiming the good that is coming to me and learnon a year-long journey to visit 44 people ing to cherish things without feeling that he credited with changing his life to like I have to earn them,” she says. initiate conversations about their influence, which he recounts in the book This Connect with freelance writer April is the Moment! While the relationships Thompson at AprilWrites.com. were already solid, according to Green, natural awakenings

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with gluten bread, animal protein and cheese with casein produces a mid-afternoon slump. They are hard to digest together and all at once, taxing body energy,” she explains. “Then, when you feel the inevitable drop in energy, you might turn to caffeine or sugary soda, but that only brings on another slump.”

consciouseating

photo by Ylva Erevall

Good Advice

Beauty Foods Kimberly Snyder Shows How to Eat for Radiant Skin, Eyes and Hair

by Judith Fertig

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ise food choices that optimize digestion and promote natural, ongoing detoxification can help us attain red-carpet shape, professes nutritionist and beauty expert Kimberly Snyder, New York Times bestselling author of The Beauty Detox Foods. She aims for optimum health as the basis for achieving a desirable outward glow.

Snyder says she once struggled with several beauty issues. In seeking wellness on the way to becoming a nutritionist, she found that her daily energy level improved after she started making shifts in her diet. She then lost weight, her hair got healthier and her formerly troubled facial skin became clear and smooth.

Blogging about her gradual transformation and lifestyle philosophies attracted media attention and a celebrity clientele by word of mouth. “I never looked for clients; they found me,” she says. Today, Snyder counts entertainers Fergie and her actor-husband Josh Duhamel, Kerry Washington, Channing Tatum and Drew Barrymore among the many celebrities she has helped get into better camera-ready shape.

Early into her personal transformation, Snyder realized that digestion holds the key. “I never linked my constipation issues with my acne,” she says. “It’s a tremendous amount of work to digest food. It’s no wonder that eating a fast-food sandwich 34

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Snyder, who is now a vegan, suggests simplifying meals and starting them with whole, raw, plant-based foods like salads.

She advises her clients to start the day with lemon juice in warm water. If they don’t feel like breakfast, she advises, “Don’t force yourself. Listen to your body, it knows best.”

When hunger hits, Snyder blends a Glowing Green Smoothie—what she calls, “the star of the whole Beauty Detox program,” in her book. A batch of three to four servings requires seven cups of chopped spinach; six cups of chopped romaine lettuce; one-and-a-half cups of chopped celery; one banana; an apple and a pear, both peeled, cored and chopped; two tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and two cups of filtered water. She claims that drinking this smoothie can make a difference in just three days.

She also lists 50 plant-based foods for specific body benefits because they are naturally alkaline-forming during digestion and assimilate more effectively than acid-forming animal protein, dairy, caffeine, alcohol and sugar. By improving digestion, we end up feeling more energetic.

Timely Eating

Carefully timed consumption is another key in Snyder’s beauty regimen. She recommends starting the day with a light smoothie, eating foods based on whole plants throughout the day, and then eating a raw salad and a vegetarian meal or some animal protein as an earlier dinner. Eating fruit by itself on an empty stomach helps it digest better than when combined with other foods that take longer to process. On hungrier days, Snyder suggests turning to whole grains such as oats or quinoa, which are high in fiber and lower in fat, or fibrous chia seeds.

When energy is low, she advocates supplementing with bee pollen or a protein smoothie. She stresses, “Progress, not perfection,” as her mantra, advising that it’s better to take small steps and keep moving forward rather than try to change everything all at once. She believes that experiencing higher energy and beauty benefits provides effective incentives to continue instead of trying to stick to a strict, numbersbased plan that doesn’t take into account energy or digestion.

Ongoing Cleansing

“The metaphor I use for healthy digestion is a waterfall versus a stagnant pond,” says Snyder. “You want your system to be moving, dynamic.” To keep digestive “sludge” out of our body’s systems, Snyder recommends a proven detox approach of drinking liquid only between meals to help foods digest easier. She particularly recommends her own Probiotic & Enzyme Salad, made with four cups of shredded cabbage; one inch of fresh ginger, cut into strips; one teaspoon of caraway seeds; and cold, filtered water, all left to naturally ferment in a jar at room temperature for about five days—or refrigerated

raw sauerkraut from a health food store—to help flush out toxins. She also emphasizes supplementing with probiotics, such as her unique formula made from soil-based organisms.

Infrared sauna treatments can also help leach heavy metals out of body fat and decrease cellulite.

“These techniques have been around for a long time because they work,” says Snyder. “As I always say, outer beauty is a reflection of inner health.”

Connect at KimberlySnyder.com.

Judith Fertig blogs at AlfrescoFoodAndLifestyle.blogspot.com from Overland Park, KS.

Top 50 Beauty Detox Foods

by Kimberly Snyder These foods work to improve specific body areas while promoting whole-body wellness. Such plant-based foods also improve digestion and raise energy levels.

For Beautiful Skin Youthful Red bell peppers Coconut (fresh, milk, oil) Avocados Spinach

Arugula Onions Raw applecider vinegar Garlic Lemon

For Beautiful Hair

For a Beautiful Body Fluid body movement Broccoli Brussels sprouts Sesame seeds Romaine lettuce

Radiant Watercress Figs Sweet potatoes Cucumbers Acai

Pumpkin seeds Dulse (a type of seaweed) Carrots Radishes Nutritional yeast

Cellulite-free Fresh cilantro and parsley Buckwheat and oat groats (whole oats)

Soft Pineapple Almonds Walnuts Flaxseed

For Beautiful Eyes

Toned body Kale Hemp seeds Quinoa Millet Chia seeds

Unlined, wrinkle-free Pears Cabbage Turmeric Clear, blemish-free Fermented vegetables (e.g., sauerkraut)

Bright eyes Papaya Beets Blueberries Apples Eliminating dark circles and puffiness Celery Collard greens Asparagus Bananas

For an Inner Glow Bee pollen Sunflower seeds Sprouts Spirulina (dried blue-green algae) or chlorella (high chlorophyll algae)

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November 2014

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wisewords

Growing Up with Wayne Dyer Serena Dyer Reflects on Her Spiritual Upbringing

by Lindsay McGinty

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photo: Pacific-Plus.com

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erena Dyer had a unique childhood being raised by spiritually progressive parents, including her bestselling celebrity dad, Wayne Dyer, Ph.D., who would write her notes on personal stationery printed with the motto, “Be realistic. Expect miracles!”

It’s not a message her peers likely heard at home.

Now 29, Serena shares her point of view in Don’t Die with Your Music Still in You: My Experience Growing Up with Spiritual Parents, co-authored with her father. The title reflects her parents’ key lesson for their children: Pursue the life you are born to live.

Some missteps along the journey to her true calling included enrolling in law school to maintain her student identity, but her upbringing served as a light guiding her home to herself. She wrote the book after dropping out of law school, a big step toward her dream of inspiring others to live authentically.

What was it like to grow up with Wayne Dyer as your father?

Growing up, my seven siblings and I were exposed to a lot of ideas that were different than what my friends heard.

We were taught that within each of us is a purpose, a passion that we call dharma, and that dharma is what we are incarnated here to do. We were

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taught that the most important thing you could do in your life was to follow that dharma, and in doing so, you would be serving God. I often joke that my childhood was filled with unconditional love and security, but also a lot of weirdness! Not many kids learn transcendental meditation at the age of 5 and count monks as friends.

Were there any downsides to being raised by spiritual parents?

I like to think that while there weren’t any real downsides, there were certainly challenges. For example, in a more traditional household, when someone gets the flu, their parents probably tell them that it’s flu season and it’s just going around. In my household, when one of us would get the flu, we were told that we aligned with it and allowed it in. In other words, part of the challenge of having spiritually progressive

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parents is that they make sure you are aware that you are responsible for everything happening in your life.

What is the greatest lesson you learned?

Thus far, it is knowing that we are the creators of our destiny—the masters of our fate. I wholeheartedly believe that we sign up for the experiences we have in this lifetime, as they are part of our soul’s desire to grow and expand.

When we make the choice to view life as not happening to us, but responding to us, we become more consciously aware of how much our thoughts affect our daily experience. I am so grateful my parents taught me this at a young age because I have learned to choose my thoughts carefully.

What is the greatest gift your parents have given you?

It’s not something they did for me; it was how they lived their lives in front of me. My parents did not encourage me to follow my dreams and then sacrifice theirs in order to raise me. My parents followed their dreams and in watching them do so, I felt safe to go after mine, as well. They taught me that there is no honor in sacrificing yourself or your dreams for anyone else, and demonstrated that the only time you have to make your life the way you want it is now. I am grateful to them for living their lives this way, which has allowed me to feel safe living my life this way, as well.

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Wondering if there is something that can be done even though every treatment you’ve tried may have failed? Dr. Carl Conforti, DC has released “The Severe Back, Sciatica, And Disc Pain Guide”. Discover for yourself why your treatments may have failed and technology relatively new to the Tampa Bay area that may provide a solution for you.

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What advice would you give to people that wish they were raised in a more spiritual manner?

I tell people that it doesn’t really matter what kind of parents you had, it matters how you feel about yourself. Everything in life starts with the self. If you don’t have love and acceptance and forgiveness for yourself, you won’t have these things to give to other people either. I was taught that we can’t give what we don’t have. When we learn to love and treasure every part of ourselves, we also have love to give to others.

Contributor Lindsay McGinty lives in Orange County, CA. natural awakenings

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sional treatment. However, new technologies could be the answer to their plight.

Alopecia is the medical term for hair loss, and can come in different forms and patterns. Alopecia can vary from patchy hair loss to thinning hair, all the way to baldness. The most common type of hair loss is baldness in males, and severe thinning, mostly starting in the crown area, in females.

Alopecia can run in the family, occurs due to disease, or after chemotherapy. Sometimes, it is the result of medications.

Treatment for Alopecia

Suffering from Hair Loss and Baldness?

by Daniela Mains

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any people are suffering from some type of hair loss, which can be very frustrating and devastating, for some even embarrassing. Many who suffer from some degree of hair loss have resorted to hiding their condition by the use of hats, wigs or toupees. Alternatively, expensive medical procedures are either cost prohibitive or the expectation of pain keeps sufferers from seeking profes-

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There is no therapeutic treatment or cure for male baldness or hair loss. Female alopecia may be treated by certain drugs, but the outcome varies as in most cases it may be due to hormone dysfunction. In general, traditional options usually include some form of invasive medical procedure which is not only painful but also very expensive, e.g. implanting artificial or natural hair follicles while under anesthesia.

However, there are other less invasive consequently far less painful treatment options available today, which are also much easier on your wallet.

Medical Scalp Micro Pigmentation simulates hair follicles on the skin by placing small pigment marks under the skin, essentially a form of tattooing. At Permanent Makeup by Daniela, I offer medical Scalp Micro Pigmentation as one of my services. I am fully licensed and trained to perform this procedure. Due to increasing awareness of this new treatment option, I have a steady increase of clients with varying degrees of hair loss asking for my professional assistance.

What is Scalp Pigmentation?

Medical Scalp Micro Pigmentation is essentially a medical hairline tattoo which serves to correct thinning hair in men and women. Most often performed on men, this procedure will give the look of a full, youthful head of shortly-trimmed hair.

The benefits of scalp pigmentation procedures are: hairlines on partly bald or fully bald heads; camouflaging the symp-

toms of all levels of alopecia; hiding scars, burns, birthmarks; rejuvenating the look of the crown; creating a completely realistic hairline; it is ideal for slowly developing crown-thinning and balding process.

The Procedure

I adhere strictly to standard Universal Precautions for infection control practices, common in the medical and semimedical professions. Sterile medical gloves and disposable single use needles are my regulations.

At the first appointment, I will carefully pick the right pigment for your scalp to assure the right fit. Secondly, I make sure (if needed) to carefully design a hairline with accurate measurements for a defined structure or perhaps more natural look, depending on you.

Before the procedure, I will numb you up with a local anesthetic to assure comfort and a nearly pain-free treatment.

You may experience some discomfort once in a while, however, I keep applying numbing solution for continued comfort.

The initial treatment duration varies in time and depends on areas to be covered, usually between 3-5 hours, depending on your hair density and level of hair loss. To determine the length and cost of treatment in your case, I apply the Hamilton-Norwood Scale, the generally accepted measure of hair loss level. Second appointment will take place about 1-2Â weeks later. This appointment takes about 2-4 hours to perfect density, shade and color.

Diffused hair loss can affect men and women at any age. It can be devastating and life-changing. Micro-pigmentation is an incredibly effective solution to restore confidence and looks. It is suited for all skin types and colors. Pigments can be matched with any existing hair.

The procedure normally takes place over 3 sessions, each taking approximately 3-4 hours, with at least one week

between sessions. The process allows for a very gradual and subtle rejuvenation/infill of the hairline, rarely identified even by close friends and family.

After the Procedure, Aftercare

After the treatment, you may experience light redness, a little bit of scabbing in areas of pigmentation, and perhaps some exfoliation. This process may take about 7 days. Key is to keep the scalp lubricated. At appointment time, you will receive aftercare products to keep areas moist.

After the treatment, you must avoid any activities which cause a lot of sweating and avoid washing the scalp for three days. For the next two weeks, avoid sun exposure, salt water and pool water. Even after the treatment you must be careful with your scalp pigmentation and take care of it at all times. Sun exposure, salt water and pool water will eventually fade the pigments. I strongly recommend wearing a hat if your head is exposed to sunlight for longer than 20 minutes. Also, avoid suntan lotion unless it contains only natural ingredients or is specifically formulated for tattoos. Touch-ups are usually after about 2-3 years. However, living in Florida with lots of sun exposure, ocean, pool, etc., touch-ups are more likely necessary after 1-1.5 years.

If you or anyone you know suffers from varying degrees of hair loss, and want to do something about it, call me for a comprehensive consultation and to discuss appropriate treatment options, 727-272-2575. Mention this article for 50% off consultation fee (reg. $50). (Not everyone is suited for scalp pigmentation.)

For more detailed information and to view pictures and video from an actual procedure, visit PermanentMakeupByDaniela.com/scalp-pigmentation. See ad page 35.

natural awakenings

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naturalpet

PLAYFUL PET GIFTS

Animals Love Interactive Toys and Games

by Sandra Murphy

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hat’s on the family pet’s wish list this year? Family members can have fun creating interactive toys and games that are easy on the holiday budget.

According to a recent American Pet Association survey, three out of four owners buy gifts for their pets during the holiday season to the collective tune of $5 billion. Dogs and cats receive new sweaters and boots, collars and leashes, toys and treats. Yet, what they really crave is attention.

“Too often, pets are left alone for eight hours a day, leading to anxiety, frustration and unwanted behaviors. It’s important that they’re mentally challenged, learn new commands and have fun,” says Dr. Mary Gardner, co-founder of Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice, in Los Angeles. “Cognitive decline and muscle wasting, common in older pets, can both be thwarted with games personalized for age and ability.”

Special Dog Treats

Look for sturdy wooden puzzles that hide a treat behind doors that pull or slide open. Advanced puzzles involve a multi-step solution. Following dog treat cookbooks will keep dedicated bakers in a canine’s good graces throughout the year.

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Write an activity—a walk, trip to the dog park, game of fetch or a doggie/human dance party—on a few index cards. “Teach the dog to choose by rubbing one card with a sodiumfree bouillon cube,” suggests Eileen Proctor, a pet lifestyle expert in Denver. “As soon as the dog sniffs the card, reward with praise and the designated gift. Once the game is learned, there is no need to keep scenting the cards.”

Turn up a corner of all the cards for easy pickup.

Purrfect for Cats

Cats may like to play it cool, but bring out a laser pointer and they act like kittens again. To mimic hunting instincts, play hide-and-seek with kitty’s food; put holes in a closed box with special bits of dry food inside, then let her paw it out or roll the box.

Place a too-large-to-swallow jingle bell inside an empty toilet paper roll and tape the ends shut for a charmingsounding toy. An orphaned sock filled with crinkly cellophane and sewn shut makes an intriguing toy to drag around.

Improvise a fishing pole from a colorful dowel rod and heavy twine with a petand planet-friendly item tied on the end for a pet to chase.

Cats love to squeeze themselves into small spaces or relax in larger ones, so pass along gift boxes.

Moss balls are a good place to hide food and also help keep the water clean.

A ceramic log lets fish hide inside.

Pretty-Bird Specials

Climbing Crabs

In the wild, birds spend most of their time foraging for food. Mimic a wilderness search by hiding food beneath an unused, unbleached coffee filter or a large lettuce leaf. Cut food in pieces big enough to hold in a claw to help hone balance.

Hide seeds in a made-forbirds piñata, available at pet supply stores. Puzzle boxes range from reach-in-for-food versions to slide-a-door or pull-a-knob difficulty levels.

Fun for Fish

Betta (Siamese fighting) fish love to rest near the surface, so provide a leafy hammock, available where supplies are sold. Finned friends get exercise as they chase a laser pointer’s red dot through the water. A new plant or ping-pong ball floating on the surface provides added entertainment.

Hermit crabs are social animals, both curious and amusing. The gift of a new shell or two during molting season is appreciated. Flat-topped rocks with textured sides, large enough to not tip over, provide a different view. Fibers like those used for macramé, hung from the lid of the tank almost to the floor mimic rope climbing. Upside-down terra cotta flower pots, in different sizes and covered with netting, provide more surfaces and heights to explore.

“Time spent together is a gift for both the giver and the recipient,” says Proctor. “It’s more thoughtful than anything you can find in a store. You always get back more than you give.”

Sandra Murphy is a freelance writer in St. Louis, MO. Connect at StLouis FreelanceWriter@mindspring.com.

Pet Precautions As with kids, don’t shower all the surprises on a pet at once. Instead, rotate them while keeping one favorite on hand.

4 Check for loose knobs or small parts on toys and around the house; anything that can break off from a strong bite.

Favor smooth, rounded edges.

4 Puzzles and other toys are for supervised play only.

4 Never point a laser light at a pet’s eyes—it can severely damage their vision.

4 Poinsettias can be poisonous to pets—keep them out of reach or out of the house.

4 Because a dog or cat’s tongue is rough, if they chew on tinsel, ribbon, yarn or other textured wrappings or decorations, it’s likely to get swallowed, which can lead to a medical emergency.

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for best friends.

Explore the joy of yoga with your dog. Meditate, massage and stretch your relationship to a new level of bonding.

Certified yoga instructors.

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November 2014

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travelspotlight

Healthy Holiday at Sea Set Sail on the Caribbean’s Only Holistic Love Boat

I

Beauty is

whatever gives joy. ~Edna St. Vincent Millay

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Tampa Bay Edition

by Judith Fein

t’s a plant-based gourmet restaurant, state-of-the-art alternative health conference, healing retreat, Caribbean vacation and love boat. This combination was impossible to find until visionary health food guru Sandy Pukel originated the Holistic Holiday at Sea concept 12 years ago.

Pukel explains, “There are parties every night, singles events and open seating in the dining room, so you get to meet new people at almost every meal.”

Many testimonials can be heard onboard about what happens when people take responsibility for their health and commit to a cleansing, balancing, healing, plant-based diet.

Cruises also include plant-based cooking classes by prominent teachers, including Chef AJ (Abbie Jaye), who signs her emails “love and kale,” and has been vegan since 1977. “I was pre-vet when I was asked to cut the heads off of salamanders,” she says. “I always say I became vegetarian rather than veterinarian.”

The down-to-earth chef remarks, “You can make simple, uncomplicated plant-based cuisine or stretch and make it as gourmet or fancy as you like.”

Passengers also receive helpful, informative materials and take copious notes from talks given by medical and

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nutritional luminaries like Dr. T. Colin Campbell, Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn, Dr. Neal Barnard, Dr. Michael Greger and Colleen Patrick-Goudreau.

Classes cover preventive care, holistic approaches to life and health, meditation, integrative relaxation, plant-based and whole food diets, alternative treatments and other solutions to problems that plague many people and erode their quality of life.

Campbell, who will be featured in the 2015 lineup, is the author of 300plus research articles and the bestselling book, The China Study: Startling Implications for Diet, Weight Loss and LongTerm Health. He counsels everyone, “Eat vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains and tubers, with little or no added fat, refined carbohydrates (sugar, white flour) or salt. The closer one gets to that kind of dietary lifestyle, the better.”

For more information on the Holistic Holiday at Sea Vegan Cruise, from Mar. 14 to 21, visit HolisticHolidayAtSea.com or call 1-800-496-0989.

Judith Fein is an award-winning international travel journalist and the author of Life is a Trip: The Transformative Magic of Travel, plus The Spoon from Minkowitz, about honoring ancestors.

fitbody

Cellulite Shrinkers Five Simple Exercises to Smooth Thighs

by E.C. LaMeaux

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nsightly cellulite, which is comprised of fat deposits just beneath the skin, appears as lumps or dimples, usually near the buttocks and upper thighs, and is most common in women. Building muscle can make cellulite harder to notice and help burn more calories.

While cellulite deposits might not be eliminated, burning body fat will make them shrink and be less visible.

Here are five top exercises to blast stubborn cellulite.

Cardiovascular Exercise

As long as we’re expending more calories than we’re taking in, we will begin burning the body’s fat deposits.

As cardio workouts burn calories, they can reduce overall body fat, which also makes cellulite harder to see. Any exercise such as walking, running, hiking or cycling can help in the overall battle to burn calories and blast cellulite.

Stair Climbing

Stair climbing burns at least 10 calories a minute, according to the nonprofit National Wellness Institute, that promotes healthy lifestyles worldwide.

Plus, stair climbing has the added benefit of working all the muscle areas that tend to get hit with the greatest amounts of cellulite.

Leg Lifts

Janet Wallace, Ph.D., professor of kinesiology at Indiana University-Bloomington, advises that leg lifts are the best exercise for toning the outer thighs.

Lie on the floor on your side, placing one elbow on the ground and prop your head up with that same hand.

Place the other hand on the floor beside your waist. With legs straight and toes pointed, lift the top leg up as far as it will go, then slowly lower it back down. Do 10 to 15 reps, and then turn over and work the other leg.

Back Kicks

An MSNBC health segment recommended this fat-busting move to target all the areas that are most susceptible to cellulite. While kneeling on hands and knees, lift a leg up behind you until it’s pointed upward at a 45-degree angle. Slowly bring the leg back down and repeat the movement with the other leg. Start with 15 reps and work up from there.

Squats

Stand comfortably with feet about a foot apart. Slowly bend the knees to lower your body until both thighs are parallel to the floor. Then gradually stand back up, squeezing gluteal and back-of-the-thigh muscles as you rise.

If performed consistently, this exercise will increase muscle strength in the thighs and buttocks, which also helps burn fat, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Less fat equals less noticeable cellulite.

As with the other exercises, start with 15 repetitions per session and work up to more.

E.C. LaMeaux posts a body of work at Gaiam Life (Life.Gaiam.com), from which this was adapted. natural awakenings

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calendarofevents

See monthly, by the day and hour, what’s happening in the Bay area. So many educational and uplifting events to assist with personal and planetary health: enjoy seminars, lectures, workshops, book signings, beauty and nutrition events, leading edge health solutions, spiritual connections, for singles, couples and families. Printed calendar is a gratis feature exclusively for advertisers who make this magazine possible. Non-advertisers are free to use on-line calendar at natampa.com, click on submit calendar tab.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1 Life after Death Lecture — Respected author and lecturer Frank Valentín will take you on a spiritual journey as living proof that there IS life after death in ways never taught before—from his first NDE in 1979 to his most recent spiritual manifest in 2014. 10am-1pm, $10 for Lecture and Q&A session; meal is optional. Perkins Family Restaurant, 2375 Curlew Rd., Dunedin. Seats are limited. Reservations, 24/7 live call center 813440-1299. Details, SearchingTruth.org/lectures.

Chi Kung Professional Masters Level I & II — Intensive Workshop Grand Master Dennis Kelly presents his live “Masters Hands On” Intensive workshop sharing ancient secrets of the healing art of Chi Kung, with an East/West Blend, designed for you to learn his “tried and true method” of expertise and graduate every student as a professional instructor. A “power packed Saturday” with the “Grand Master” and leader in the profession. Visit dennis-kelly.com.

de Luz. Muy apropiada charla para protegerse de la contaminación electromagnética rampante en nuestros tiempos, venga y comparta para ayudar a sus seres queridos y aprender a protegerse. 1pm, Reservación, Marta 813-425-2596.

6pm, Free, Synergy Integrated Health, 4343 W Henderson Blvd., Tampa, Seating limited, Reservations, 813-254-5200, tampathyroid.com.

Paleo for the Holidays — Emily Drews, Mindful Meals Personal Chef, shows how to give thanks for nutritional abundance! Maintain tradition with a whole food Paleo & gluten-free template as your guide. 4pm, Free, Nature’s Food Patch, 1225 Cleveland St., Clearwater, 727-443-6703, naturesfoodpatch.com.

Essential Low Back Pain Therapy Series — Nancy MacDonald ERYT 500, Yoga Therapist, the only certified teacher in the Tampa Bay area for this first time offered program, offering healthy movement, strengthening and stretching that has been clinically proven through NIH studies to help back pain sufferers. Class size limited to ten. 10:30am-Noon, $270/6-week series, includes manual, Pre-registration required, The Lotus Pond, Tampa, yogalotuspond.com events & workshops, Info ShantiVinyasa.com.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4 Vegan Thanksgiving — Brad Myers, the Vegabond Chef, prepares vegan versions of your favorite traditional Thanksgiving foods! 6:30pm, Free, Nature’s Food Patch, 1225 Cleveland St., Clearwater, 727-443-6703, naturesfoodpatch.com.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2

Thyroid Problems? Free Seminar — Fatigue?

Weight gain? Thinning hair? Feeling cold?

Anxious? Brittle nails? Brain fog? Drs. John & Alex Parker, DC, D.PSc provide answers,

Como Usar Su Celular de Una Manera Mas Segura — Dra. Marta Alarcon, Reiki Master, Consejera Familiar, Hipnoterapista y Terapista

Couples’ Retreats!

Led by Richard & Diana Daffner, M.A. authors of Tantric Sex for Busy Couples

Create Magic in your Relationship!

Romantic Vacation Workshops

Siesta Key

Nov 14-16

Dec 5-7

Dec 26-28

Mexico

January 24-31, 2015 Call for ADD’L DATES & Free Brochure: 941-349-6804 Intimac yRetreats .com

Bay Area Oriental Family Practice nd clinical a 20 years xperience e teaching f 6 books Acupuncture author o

P.A.

Tuina Massage Herbal Medicine • Qigong Therapy Dietary Therapy and Nutrition Phone: 813-882-8373 Web: www.baofp.com Yali Fan, AP/DOM MD (in China)

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5905 Webb Road, Tampa

www.natampa.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6

Marketplace Food Frauds — How to Be a Wiser Shopper, presented by Dr. Betty-Wedman St Louis, Licensed Nutritionist and Environmental Health Specialist, specializing in Functional Medicine Nutrition, Diabetes and GI disorders, 6pm, Free, Peaks of Health Metabolic Medical Center, 7600 Bryan Dairy Rd., Largo, 727-8260838.

Making Perfect Pie Crusts — Carol Kicinski, Simply Gluten Free, prepares 3 gluten-free

pie crusts: traditional; grain-free nut crust; cookie crust. Make a perfect crust for every occasion! 6:30pm, Free, Nature’s Food Patch, 1225 Cleveland St., Clearwater, 727-443-6703, naturesfoodpatch.com.

Full Moon/New Moon Gong Meditation — Monthly event with Lisa Recchione, eRYT200, scheduled close to either the new or full moon.

The Gong has all the sounds and vibrations of creations within it. It cancels out thoughts and allows you to completely relax very deeply and quickly. The mind is overcome and relaxed so that a very deep state of meditation can be reached.

In this state deep healing occurs and awareness is heightened. Suitable for all levels of practitioners; no experience necessary. Wear loose, comfortable clothes. 7-8:30pm, $15 or discounts with class passes (at the door). yoga4all, 8836 Seminole Blvd., Seminole. Pre-pay to guarantee space, Lisa 727-595-6036, yoga4all.com/workshops.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8 Therapeutic Yoga & Mindfulness for Cancer — (continues November 9) with Sharen Lock.

Develop the skills and confidence to support anyone at any stage of their journey with cancer. Learn how to use the tools of yoga and mindfulness training to create safe and effective practices for classes or individual sessions with cancer patients and survivors. 9am-5:30pm, The Lotus Pond, 6201 Lynn Rd., Tampa, Reservations, LotusPondYoga.com.

Nutritional Blood Evaluations — For a view of your body’s terrain, utilizing one drop of blood, Brandi Stewart, Nutritional Microscopist & wellness educator, can show you 42 anomalies of your health, from digestive dysfunction and

toxicity to inflammation markers, lymphocytes, health of white blood cells & more. Receive your appointment recorded onto DVD and score sheet.

Live layer $50; Live and Dry layers $90, Nutrition S’mart, 14847 N. Dale Mabry, Tampa, Call for appointment 813-908-9500.

produce available, combining the principles of Chinese Medicine with seasonal cooking. Glutenand dairy-free! 6:30pm, Free, Nature’s Food Patch, 1225 Cleveland St., Clearwater, 727-4436703, naturesfoodpatch.com.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11 Back Pain? Can Yoga Help? — Essential Low Back Pain Therapy, taught by Nancy MacDonald ERYT 500, Yoga Therapist, the only Tampa Bay area certified teacher for the National Institute of Health clinically proven back pain program.

Small groups and private offerings are starting in November; series starting in 2015. Tree Frog Yoga, Pinellas Park, treefrogyoga.net, Nancy 727542-0116 or shantivinyasa.com.

Benefits of Aromatherapy — Kim Wells, Licensed Esthetician, Now Foods, covers everything from the basics of aromatherapy to the science behind essential oils, answers your aromatherapy questions, and provides ideas and resources on how to best utilize essential oils. Whether you’re new to aromatherapy or a longtime advocate, join in the discussion. 6:30pm, Free, Nature’s Food Patch, 1225 Cleveland St., Clearwater, 727-443-6703, naturesfoodpatch.com.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 12

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14

Thyroid Problems? Free Seminar — Fatigue?

Weight gain? Thinning hair? Feeling cold?

Anxious? Brittle nails? Brain fog? Drs. John & Alex Parker, DC, D.PSc provide answers, 6pm, Free, Synergy Integrated Health, 4343 W Henderson Blvd., Tampa, Seating limited, Reservations, 813-254-5200, tampathyroid.com.

Free the Spine — with Lynne Andrews, Senior TriYoga teacher trainer. TriYoga fundamentals include relaxation-in-action, wave-like spinal movements and economy of motion. This session will begin with gentle flows to stretch the back and shoulders; back bending poses strengthen the back and open the heart center; forward bends create an inward focus and relaxed state of mind, preparing us for deep relaxation. 6-9pm, $40, yoga4all, 8836 Seminole Blvd., Seminole, Info/Register, Lynn 850-329-7839, yoga4all.com/workshops.

Restore Your Natural Hormone Balance Safely — Presented by Tami Horner, MD and Sherri Morrison, RN, BSN, 6:30pm, Success by Design, 9095 Belcher Road, Pinellas Park, 727-548-0001, successbydesignweightloss.com.

The Reynolds’ Kitchen — Dr. Paul & Cara Reynolds, thereynoldskitchen.com, prepare a menu: To be determined based on the fresh

Free Your Mind — What if you could transcend the illusion of limitation? Andi Schenbeck, energy intuitive, will share the gift of Vibrational Alignment in this Divinely Guided session to transmute the unconscious beliefs, programs and

Near Death Experiences Lecture

Respected author and lecturer Frank Valentín will take you on a spiritual journey as living proof that there IS life after death in ways never taught beforeÑfrom his Þrst NDE in 1979 to his most recent manifest in 2014.

RSVP ( 8 1 3 ) 4 4 0 - 1 2 9 9 w w w. S e a r c h i n g T r u t h . o r g

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emotional content that is of the ego, shifting you into the state of allowing abundance, peace and harmony that is your true nature. You will be guided to choose to align with a more honoring way of being, so that your life will reflect your true magnificence! 6:30-8:30pm, $33/pp, Bring a friend for only $22 more (while seats are available), Wings Bookstore, 4500 4th St. N., St. Pete, Advance reservations recommended, 727522-6657, WingsBookstore.com.

Couples Weekend Getaway & Workshop — Join Richard & Diana Daffner, authors of Tantric Sex for Busy Couples, for a romantic beach getaway.

Bring greater joy, intimacy and passion to your relationship. Celebrate your love. Connect with your beloved on a soul level. 7pm-Sun 2pm, $695/ couple, Siesta Key Beach, Sarasota, FL, More info, other dates & locations, brochure, 941-349-6804.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15 Light Therapy Introduction — Rev. Maria Antonieta Revello, Samassati Light Therapy Certified, Reiki, Karuna & Qi Gong Master, NLP instructor, Anthropologist, will discuss the role Light plays in our cells, physical health, emotional, mental well-being, and spiritual connectedness, how light interfaces with each. 2-4pm, Info 813334-7424 or reikishrine@gmail.com.

Finding Your Core — Building Core Strength to Stabilize Your Yoga Practice with Heather Overton, eRYT200. Often the core is thought of as only abdominal muscles when in fact it is so much more. In this workshop learn to find your core and how to strengthen it safely. Receive a copy of the sequence to take home. 3-4:30pm,

$20, Late registration and walk-in permitted with instructor permission, yoga4all, 8836 Seminole Blvd., Seminole. Info/Register, Heather 727-4803004, yoga4all.com/workshops.

Nutritional Blood Evaluations — For a view of your body’s terrain, utilizing one drop of blood, Brandi Stewart, Nutritional Microscopist & wellness educator, can show you 42 anomalies of your health, from digestive dysfunction and toxicity to inflammation markers, lymphocytes, health of white blood cells & more. Receive your appointment recorded onto DVD and score sheet.

Live layer $50; Live and Dry layers $90, Bailey’s Naturals, 470 2nd St. North, Safety Harbor, Call for appointment 727-725-1617.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16 Raw Fall Sweets — Brad Myers, the Vegabond Chef, shows you how to make the raw versions of the sweets you love during the holidays! Raw, Vegan & Gluten-free! 4pm, Free, Nature’s Food Patch, 1225 Cleveland St., Clearwater, 727-4436703, naturesfoodpatch.com.

Reiki I & II Usui System — Class Certification and CEUs available for LMT, Provider Number MCE 50-13619. Rev. Maria Antonieta Revello, Reiki, Karuna and Qigong Master, Light Therapist, NLP practitioner. 10am-2pm; Reiki II: Thurs., Nov. 20, 10am-2pm, Info, Maria 813-3347424, reikishrine@gmail.com.

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Need Guidance on Life Issues, Lessons or Purpose?    



www.journeyswithanna.com

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Tampa Bay Edition

Hypnotic Fat Ban™ — Patricia V. Scott, Certified Practitioner, leads powerful program developed over 30 years by Robert Otto, first hypnotist to get Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition listed in Library of Congress. Uses hypnosis, guided imagery & visualization to effect positive, permanent change. 6:30-9pm, $97; $75/ UPHI Members, One-year FREE Tune-UPs. UP Hypnosis Institute, 800 Tarpon Woods Blvd., Palm Harbor, 727-943-5003, 866-537-7746, info@ UPHypnosis.com, UPHypnosis.com.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20 Ask the Doctor — One-time opportunity!

Bring your medical questions to be answered

by Dr. David Minkoff, one of this country’s top MDs, specializing in alternative health. Dr. Minkoff, of LifeWorks Wellness Center, will advise on natural solutions to any condition, from allergies to cancer to toxicity and beyond.

6:30pm, Free, Nature’s Food Patch, 1225 Cleveland St., Clearwater, 727-443-6703.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22 TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19

www.natampa.com

Reiki I & II Usui System — Mila Mirankovic, Reiki Master, Light Therapist. Reiki 9am-1pm, Info, Mila 941-321-4092, Maria 813-334-7424.

From the Ground Up — Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned student some poses may seem just out of your reach. Join Wanda Howe, eRYT500 for this explorative workshop focused on establishing the necessary foundation to take your practice forward. Learn techniques to help you develop better balance, concentration

and alignment. This grounded experience will end with guided relaxation and meditation to allow your body time to soak in the practice. All levels welcome, 2-4:30pm, $35, Pre-registration required; Late registration and walk-in permitted with instructor permission, yoga4all, 8836 Seminole Blvd., Seminole, Info/Register, Wanda 727-432-3018, yoga4all.com/workshops.

Nutritional Blood Evaluations — For a view of your body’s terrain, utilizing one drop of blood, Brandi Stewart, Nutritional Microscopist & wellness educator, can show you 42 anomalies of your health, from digestive dysfunction and toxicity to inflammation markers, lymphocytes, health of white blood cells & more. Receive your appointment recorded onto DVD and score sheet.

Live layer $50; Live and Dry layers $90, Abby’s Health & Nutrition. 14374 N. Dale Mabry, Tampa, Call for appointment 813-265-4951.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 24 Attitude of Gratitude Hypnosis & NLP Master Class MeetUP — (Public welcome) Interactive class with Patricia V. Scott, Ph.D., using techniques, scripts & practice with attendees. Enjoy experiencing Hypnosis-NLP in a professionally supervised setting. Hypnotherapists 3CEUs. 6-9 pm, $30/before 11/17, $40/after; $20/UPHI Members, UP Hypnosis Institute, 800 Tarpon Woods Blvd., Palm Harbor, 727-9435003, info@UPHypnosis.com, UPHypnosis.com.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29 Wholly Beings Book — (4th Saturday) Each

month we will meet to discuss a new or oldiebut-goodie book we have all read. Books will be personal growth and/or spiritual development in nature. This month’s book is Living in the Light

by Shakti Gawain. Bring a journal, your thoughts & ideas, and come ready to deepen the experience of the read. Facilitated by Mary Sambrosky, wellbeing coach & intuitive counselor, 10:30am-Noon, Love Offering, Wings Bookstore, 4500 4th St. N., St. Pete, 727-522-6657, WingsBookstore.com.

PLAN AHEAD THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9 Life after Death Lecture — Respected author and lecturer Frank Valentín will take you on a spiritual journey as living proof that there IS life after death in ways never taught before—from his first NDE in 1979 to his most recent spiritual manifest in 2014.

Seats are limited; learn more at SearchingTruth. org/lectures/. 10am-1pm, $10, Perkins Family Restaurant, 5002 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa, Reservations, 24/7 live call center 813-440-1299.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13

Digestive Wellness — Probiotics, Prebiotics, Good Yeast vs Bad Yeast; Why GMO Foods can Destroy Your Health, presented by Dr. BettyWedman St Louis, Licensed Nutritionist and Environmental Health Specialist, specializing in Functional Medicine Nutrition, Diabetes and GI disorders, 6pm, Free, Peaks of Health Metabolic Medical Center, 7600 Bryan Dairy Rd., Largo, 727-826-0838.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6 Life after Death Lecture — Respected author and lecturer Frank Valentín will take you on a spiritual journey as living proof that there IS life after death in ways never taught before—from his first NDE in 1979 to his most recent spiritual manifest in 2014.

Seats are limited; learn more at SearchingTruth. org/lectures/. 10am-1pm, $10, Perkins Family Restaurant, 2375 Curlew Rd., Dunedin, Reservations, 24/7 live call center 813-440-1299.

Yummy Restorative Yoga with Yoga Nidra Meditation — with Nancy MacDonald ERYT 500, Yoga Therapist. Give the gift of restoration to yourself with yoga postures using blankets, bolsters, neck pillows, hand pillows and more to allow you to surrender into stillness and peace. After melting away tension from your body the session ends with a yoga nidra meditation, balancing and harmonizing body, mind and spirit, leaving you refreshed, vibrant and healthy. 2:30-5:30pm, $35, Yoga4All, 8836 Seminole Blvd., Seminole, Registration required, yoga4all.com under events.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 3 Treasure Island Energetic Healing Fair — Join Mark Robinson, Energetic Restructurer, using intuition and dowsing to remove sabotaging energy and facilitate the change you want in your life. Other practitioners include empathic energy healing for emotional issues & physical pain; angel practitioner; spiritual healer; Reiki Master. 10am-4pm, 20 min. sessions/$20, Treasure Island Community Center, Garden Room, 1 Park Pl. & 106th Ave., Treasure Island, 727-831-6318.

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ongoingevents sunday Introduction to The Presence Process - (3rd Sunday) The Presence Process is a very specific selffacilitated 10 week journey that combines breathing, short meditation sessions and “conscious responses” to help you integrate your “emotional charges” that are preventing you from being your greater self. The book is available for purchase $19.95.5pm, Love Offering, Wings Bookstore, 4500 4th St N, St Pete, WingsBookstore.com, 727-522-6657.

Mindfulness Meditation and Buddhist Teaching – in the spirit of Thich Nhat Hanh with Fred Eppsteiner. Mindfulness practice helps one to cultivate compassion, develop inner peace and experience joy in daily life. 10am-Noon, 6501 N Nebraska Ave, Tampa, Info tampa-updates@floridamindfulness.org or visit floridamindfulness.org.

Advance Reiki Training, Reiki II, Karuna Reiki – by request with Rev Maria Antonieta Revello, member of ICRT, Reiki, Karuna & Qigong Master, NLP practitioner and instructor. Call for reservations, location, times, Maria 813-334-7424, reikishrine@gmail.com.

monday Inner Wisdom Coaching Circle – Join Coach Dianne Kipp in a “telecoaching” group each month to discover your internal wisdom, while learning how to overcome your “Monkey Mind” negative self-talk. You will learn the foundations of Ontological coaching, as well experience what it is like to “be coached”. Bring your life challenges, desires, and dreams and we’ll get you on the road to your success! 6-8pm, $30 per person per month; 3 or 6 month commitment required. Contact Coach Dianne 727-481-1646 or coach@diannekipp.com.

Create Your Ideal Healthy Body! – Mind-Body Cohesion© System developed by Patricia V Scott combines Hypnosis, NLP, Pivotal Response Conditioning & more for weight, diet, cravings, confidence, exercise motivation. Initial 5 classes: $155 prepaid; $175 same day; $135 Members. Continue with discounted repeat classes. 6:30-8:30pm, UP Hypnosis Institute, 800 Tarpon Woods Blvd, Palm Harbor, 727-943-5003, Info@ UPHypnosis.com, map uphypnosis.com.

Yoga — with Osiris Albrecht. Bring your mat and enjoy healthy stretch and relaxation. 6:30-7:40pm, RSVP Osiris 813-545-3261 or Maria 813-334-7424.

Embrace Your Infinite Potential — (3rd Monday) Awaken yourself to a New Way of Being during this session designed to ignite and inspire your full potential. Each session will include the gift of Vibrational Alignment shared by Andi Schenbeck, aligning you with your highest potential by transmuting lifetimes of unconscious beliefs and energies that no longer serve you. 7pm, Love Offering, Wings Bookstore, 4500 4th St N, St Pete, WingsBookstore. com, 727-522-6657.

wednesday

moment. Bring a meditation cushion and receive guidance on how to sit for optimum results. 7pm, Love Offering, Wings Bookstore, 4500 4th St N, St Pete, WingsBookstore.com, 727-522-6657.

Yum Yum Yoga — Recovering from illness or injury? Stressed, overwhelmed or suffering from back pain? This therapeutic class taught by Yoga Therapist Nancy MacDonald ERYT 500 might be just what you need. Leave class feeling yummy and peaceful, with tools to support you and your journey of health. 7-8:15pm, Yoga4All, 8836 Seminole Blvd., Seminole, shantivinyasa.com.

Attention Coaches and Want-a-Be Coaches! – Join Coach Dianne Kipp, experienced, certified and mentoring coach on a monthly “coaches conversation call” to build community, exchange ideas and gain insight to solving difficult client challenges.

Details 727-481-1646, diannekipp.com.

tuesday Inspiration Radio – Listen to Dr Tracie J Leonhardt, DO, on 1110 AM; call in with questions on topic of the day, 7:30am.

Tuesday Fresh Market - Over 70 vendors, including local produce, artisan foods, health & wellness, art & crafts, live music. Year-round, 9am-3pm, 3000 Beach Blvd S, Gulfport Waterfront Village. Clothing swap second Tuesday monthly, 9am-1pm. Info GulfportMA.com, FreshMarket@GulfportMA.com, 727-453-9093.

Suprabhatam – Morning prayer where we ask God to bless our day. Suprabhatam literally means “auspicious dawn”. This hymn to the Lord is sung before the break of day. It is followed by a short meditation which you can use to empty your mind and ask God for guidance. 9-9:30am, Free, Shiva Dharma, 2838 Beach Blvd S, Gulfport, 727-327-4111.

Gulf Coast Nutrition Radio with Dr V & Brenda B — Tune in to hear the latest on health news, natural supplements, and interviews with leading experts in the field of natural health and nutrition, Noon-1pm, WHNZ 1250 AM. Reiki I & II Usui System – Class Certification and CEUs available for LMT, Provider #MCE 50–77, for Reiki credits. Rev Maria Antonieta Revello, Reiki, Karuna & Qigong Master. Reiki I, Tuesday; Reiki II, Thursday; 6-10pm, RSVP 813-334-7424.

Acupressure Training – (1st & 3rd Tuesdays) Acupressure and acupuncture treatments can help improve results. Hands on training with Dr Yali Fan, MD, professor in China, author of six Chinese Medical books, 23 years teaching/clinical experience, Tuina, acupressure. 7-8pm, $20 (bring one or two guests; no charge), 5905 Webb Rd, Tampa, Limited seating, RSVP 813–882–8373.

Mindfulness Meditation — (1st & 2nd Mondays) Mary Beth Jones, Doctor of Oriental Medicine, will teach you how to greatly reduce stress, open up your creative juices and discover life in the present

The Essential Teachings of Alan Watts — (2nd Tuesday) Dive deeply into the philosophy of Alan Watts as facilitated by Jacob. We begin with a 15 minute meditation, and then move into listening and contemplating on the specific teaching of the night.

Topics vary: The Ego, Meditation, God, etc. Group discussion follows teaching to dig further into these ideas. 7pm, Love Offering, Wings Bookstore, 4500 4th St. N., St. Pete, 727-522-6657, WingsBookstore.com.

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Restorative/Yin Yoga - Join Nancy MacDonald ERYT500, Certified Restorative Yoga teacher as she guides you in the peaceful practice of restorative/yin yoga. Postures will be held so the body can unwind and unfold naturally. 7-8:15pm, Yoga4All, 8836 Seminole Blvd, Seminole, 727-542-0116, Shantivinyasa.com. $15 walk-ins, package prices available.

Reiki Share – (also every third Saturday) – Experience the most profound, powerful & gentle relaxation technique; feel renewed and lighter. It helps re-establish healthy frequencies to cells and tissues bringing back health. Complements any form of therapy. 10am-2:30pm, Call for appointments & location, 813-425-2596 Dr Marta Alarcon, 813-3347424 Maria, reikishrine@gmail.com Inspiration Radio – Listen to Dr Tracie J Leonhardt, DO, on 1110 AM; call in with your questions on the topic of the day. Also listen daily for her metabolic health minute of the day. 11:30am-Noon.

Joel Chudnow Hosts Hawk Health Hour — Wholistic Health Educator and Natural Lifestyle Counselor Joel Chudnow is back on the radio and web. From a new studio in Ybor City, he continues to interview and showcase wholistic healthcare professionals in Tampa Bay. Noon-1pm, WMNF 88.5 HD4 and live streaming HawkRadio.com.

Happy Half Hour Wednesday Group Ear Acupuncture - Five tiny needles in each ear can help with stress & anxiety, and reduce cravings of all kinds, done in a relaxing setting. 5:30pm, $20, Attend 5 sessions get 6th free, Warm Sea Acupuncture, 531 Main St, Ste D, Safety Harbor, 727-726-1676.

Kundalini Yoga with Allison Marie – Open your mind and body to the healing possibilities of yoga. Become more flexible, more joyous, through breath awareness, chanting and the practice of kriya. Awaken the kundalini in you. All levels, 5:306:45pm, $15 walk-ins, memberships or package prices available, First Unity Campus, 4500 4th St N, Rm 401, St Petersburg, 727-421-0721.

Hypnosis & NLP Master Class (Public Welcome) – (Last Wednesday monthly) Master Class for professional development (3 CEUs). Hypnotists expand skills with scripts & practice time & others participate as practice client. $30 UPHI Associates; $35 UPHI Members; $40 General Public). 6-9pm, UP Hypnosis Institute, 800 Tarpon Woods Blvd, Palm Harbor, 727-943-5003, 866-537-7746, Info@ UPHypnosis.com, map uphypnosis.com.

Mindfulness Meditation & Practice – in the spirit of Thich Nhat Hanh. Mindfulness practice helps to cultivate compassion, develop inner peace and experience joy in daily life. 7-8:45pm, UU St Pete, 719 Arlington Ave N, St Petersburg, Info floridamindfulness.org.

Qi Gong — Facilitated by She Toles, this ancient technique extends your life, improves your health, and is amazing! A must for all energy workers. 6:308pm, Reservation, She 813-546-3754, Maria 813334-7424 or reikishrine@gmail.com.

thursday A Course In Miracles – A modern day expression of the demonstrations and teachings of Jesus as the path

to happiness, love and joy; course focuses on letting go of thoughts and pictures in our minds that cause us to suffer. $5 donation, 7pm, First Unity, 460-46th Ave North, St Pete, 727-527-2222 x101 or FirstUnity.org.

Beginners Yoga Class — If you are new to yoga or just want a brief review of the basics on how to sit, stand and breathe, please join us for this class one time for free for Pinellas residents. 5:30- 6:45pm, Yoga4All, 8836 Seminole Blvd., Seminole, Info, Marty 727-392-9642, yoga4all.com.

Free Meditation – 6:15-6:45pm, Shiva Dharma, 2838 Beach Blvd South, Gulfport. 727-327-4111, shivadharma.com.

Conversations with Purpose - (4th Thursday monthly) Sharing, supporting, inspiring and doing can transpire from these gatherings. 6:30-8:30pm, Info 813-334-7424, reikishrine@gmail.com.

Energy Medicine Study Group - (4th Thursday monthly) Interactive class guided by Joyce Claflin, Certified Eden Energy Medicine Practitioner. Learn to practice techniques from Donna Eden’s teachings that can enhance your life: how to reduce stress, increase stamina, relieve pain and more! 7pm, Love Offering, Wings Bookstore, 4500 4th St N, St Pete, WingsBookstore.com, 727-522-6657.

Medical Qi Gong Seminars – (1st & 3rd Thursdays) Dr Yali Fan, MD & Professor in China, has taught Qi Gong for over 20 years. 7-8pm, 5905 Webb Rd, Tampa, 813-882-8373.

WHOLE FOODS MARKE T IP, L .P.

Back Pain? Can Yoga Help? — Has your doctor told you yoga might help your back pain? Find out how.

Watch The Lotus Pond Tampa schedule for a yoga series and classes taught specifically for back pain.

Nancy MacDonald E-RYT500 will be leading these sessions, using yoga therapy that was clinically studied

to work with individuals with various types of back pain. Info, Nancy 727-542-0116, LotusPondYoga.com.

Weight Loss Seminars – (2nd & 4th Thursdays) Lose weight quick & have great health, with Dr Yali Fan, MD & Professor in China who has practiced Chinese Medicine for over 22 years. 7-8pm, 5905 Webb Road, Tampa. 813-882-8373.

friday Suprabhatam – Morning prayer where we ask God to bless our day and guide us to awaken to our innermost reality. Suprabhatam literally means “auspicious dawn”. It is followed by a short meditation which you can use to empty your mind and ask God for guidance. 9-9:30am, Free, Shiva Dharma, 2838 Beach Blvd S, Gulfport, 727-327-4111.

Community Acupuncture Healing Sessions – patients sit quietly in comfortable recliners and benefit from the synergistic healing energy of a group. 10am-3pm, Payment is made anonymously, based on honor system, Suggest $20–$45, cash only, Mind Body Spirit Care, 3610 Madaca Ln, Tampa, Reservations 813-969-1311.

saturday Migraine and Anxiety Healing with Acupuncture — (4th Saturday Monthly) How Acupuncture can effectively help migraine and anxiety sufferers using a holistic approach, presented by Dr. Guansu Wang, AP, DOM, MD in China, with 25+ total years of experience and 22 years in Bay area. 10-11:30am, 1811 N. Belcher Road, H4, Clearwater, Reservations 727-797-1161.

Reiki Share – (third Saturday) Experience the most profound, powerful & gentle relaxation technique. It helps re-establish healthy frequencies to cells and tissues bringing back health. Complements any form of therapy.

10am-2:30pm, Call for appointment & location, 813765-5166 Maritza, 813-425-2596 Dr Marta Alarcon, 813-334-7424 Maria, or reikishrine@gmail.com.

Gentle Yoga – with Osiris; bring your mat. 8:309:45am, Reservations, Osiris 813-545-3261 or Maria 813-334-7424.

Self-Hypnosis Training: Your Unlimited Mind! – (Last Saturday monthly) Patricia V Scott, Certified Master Trainer, teaches how to discover untapped potentials, talents & abilities using the power of your Unlimited Min. $45 prepaid; $55 same day; $35 Members, includes CD/materials, 1-4pm, UP Hypnosis Institute, 800 Tarpon Woods Blvd, Ste A-1, Palm Harbor, 727-943-5003, 866-537-7746, Info@UPHypnosis.com, map uphypnosis.com.

Couples Beach Retreat & Workshop – Transform your relationship through sacred intimacy and conscious loving. Discover Tantra. Friday 7:30pmSunday 1:45pm, $595/couple, Siesta Key Beach, Sarasota, IntimacyRetreats.com; Dates, other locations, brochure, call 1-877-282-4244.

Beginners Yoga Class — If you are new to yoga or just want a brief review of the basics on how to sit, stand and breathe, please join us for this class one time for free for Pinellas residents. Open to all levels. 5:30- 6:45pm, Yoga4All, 8836 Seminole Blvd., Seminole, Info, Marty 727-392-9642, yoga4all.com.

YOU CAN DO IT ALL. BUT YOU DON’T HAVE TO.

Holiday meals, entrées, sides, desserts, party platters, appetizers and more for in-store pick up.

SHOP.WFM.COM COMING SOON ALTAMONTE SPRINGS • DAVIE • DOWNTOWN MIAMI NORTH WINTER PARK • POMPANO BEACH • WEST PALM BEACH

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BRINGING MORE THAN HOMEWORK HOME

By Ryan Hogan It’s that time of year when we’re sending our kids back to school. Unfortunately, while schools are good places to learn they are great places to catch a disease. In fact, children’s Upper respiratory illnesses (URI’s) cause more doctor visits and missed school days than any other illness in the US. Luckily, there are a few things you can do at home to help reduce the chances of your child getting sick at school this year.

sanitizer before eating snacks, lunch and after using a shared computer mouse, pencil sharpener, water fountain or other community objects.

Now, most people know we need to wash our hands, but one thing most people don’t really relate their health to is nasal hygiene. Using a saline spray with xylitol, such as Xlear Nasal Spray, is safe for all ages. Research has shown this natural sweetener is useful in preventing bacterial otitis media (ear infections), among other upper respiratory problems that are most likely to occur in fall and winter months. Additional xylitol studies have also shown a significant reduction in asthma attacks when a xylitol nasal spray is used on a daily basis.

Xylitol affects nose and throat bacteria in two ways:

HOW? Before we talk prevention, we need to know how infection spreads. Many childhood illnesses are caused by viruses and bacteria that are transferred from person to person. URI’s increase in fall and winter as we spend more time crowded indoors. All it takes is one sick child, going to school for the spread to begin. Small droplets from a child’s cough or sneeze travel through the air and land on surfaces like desks, doorknobs and people. These germs are easily spread when someone touches the contaminated object and then proceeds to touch their eyes, nose or mouth. Children’s immune systems are less mature than those of adults, so they’re more vulnerable to these germs. Washing your hands and your nasal passages and also keeping their hands away from their nose, eyes and mouth are the most preventative habits to form at a young age.

•

Decreases the adherence of harmful bacteria on their surface cells.

•

Stimulates the body’s own natural defense system

Since the average American child has six to ten colds a year, using a xylitol nasal spray is a safe and effective way to promote better upper respiratory health, year round.

FINAL HEALTHY TIPS In addition to frequent hand-washing, teach your child some other school health basics: •

Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.

•

Give your child a package of tissues to keep in his or her desk.

•

Encourage your child not to share water bottles, food or other personal items.

•

Ask your child’s teacher to include hand-washing time before lunch or snacks.

•

Have your whole family practice nasal hygiene and the use of xylitol saline spray like Xlear.

WHAT CAN YOU DO? Our best defense is to stop cold germs where they breed.

Good hand-washing is the most effective way to prevent bacteria and viruses from spreading. Wash your hands after using the bathroom, blowing your nose, handling trash and prior to touching food to help eliminate germs. Soap and water should be used for 20 seconds (about as long as it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice). Using alcohol-based hand cleaners is also effective. Remind your child to use the

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www.natampa.com

Even with all of these tips, your kids are bound to come down with something over the course of the school year. We all get sick at some point or another, forming healthier habits and maintaining a positive attitude is all we can do as parents.

For more information, please visit www.xlear.com.

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communityresourceguide ...connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide visit www.natampa.com or call 727.865.9339.

ACUPUNCTURE bay area oriental family practice Yali Fan, AP, DOM, MD (China) 5905 Webb Road, Tampa South side of the Town & Country Hospital (813) 882—8373 Baofp.com

Dr. Yali Fan was an associate professor in Shandong University of TCM and the University hospital in China before she arrived in the US in 1996. With 20 years clinical experience, her patients range from 7 day old newborns to 95 year old seniors. See ad page 44.

Jade Tree Wellness Center Tom Elman, AP, LMT 3039 - 49th St. N, St. Petersburg (727) 344—8690 JadeTreeWellness.com

Happy, Healthy, Whole! Acupuncture, Herbs and Massage to help you feel better. We treat everything from asthma to emotional issues, from Acid Reflux to Fibromyalgia. Free Consultations! See ad page 17.

Sunshine Acupuncture Center Dr. Guansu Wang, AP, DOM, MD (China) 1811 N. Belcher Road, Suite H4, Clearwater (727) 797-1161 SunshineAcupunctureCenter.com

25+ years experience practicing and teaching Acupuncture and TCM. In bay area since 1992.

Specializing in Neurological pain, migraine, Arthritis, Anxiety, Insomnia etc. Free consultation.

warm sea acupuncture

Jane Myers, RN, LAc, MAc, AP 531 Main St., Suite D, Safety Harbor (727) 726-1676 WarmSeaAcupuncture.com Jane has been a registered nurse since 1977 and now specializes in Five Element Acupuncture bringing together the whole person: body mind and spirit. Herbal pharmacy on premises. See ad page 47.

alternative medicine LIFEWORKS WELLNESS CENTER

Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine Chris Dziubinski, DOM, AP, L. Ac 201 S. McDill Ave. (S. Tampa) 3610 Madaca Lane (N. Tampa) (813) 935-CARE (2273) MindBodySpiritCare.com

Florida Board Certified Acupuncture Physician offering acupuncture therapies for the whole family. Established, comfortable, caring and professional integrative medicine clinics in South & North Tampa. In-network with most medical insurances; accept payments from HRA, HSA and FSA.

Natural Med Therapies

Machelle Perkins, D.O.M. 7600 Bryan Dairy Rd # C, Largo, 33777 (727) 541—2211 NaturalMedTherapies.com National & state board certified with 15+ years experience in Acupuncture, Homeopathy, Naturopathy, Cold Laser & more.

Bio-Puncture and Mesotherapy to treat pain, ADHD, anxiety, depression. Lab testing, most insurances. Free Nutritional Consultation.

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Dr. David Minkoff Dr. George Springer & Sue Morgan, ARNP 301 Turner Street, Clearwater (727) 466—6789 LifeWorksWellnessCenter.com Specializing in natural hormone replacement therapy: the natural, bioidentical way and other safe, natural nutritional solutions for menopause symptoms, including weight loss, acupuncture, chelation, allergy elimination, and walk-in care.

See ad inside front cover.

Peaks of Health Metabolic Medical Center Tracie Leonhardt, DO 7600 Bryan Dairy Rd Suite D Largo, Florida 33777 (727) 826-0838 PeaksOfHealth.com

Dr. Leonhardt is Board Certified & Fellow of the American Academy of Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine. Offers a personalized program for each individual patient.

Offering: Hormone replacement therapy, weight loss, thyroid, GI issues, Diabetes, infrared sauna, IV nutrition, Anti-aging, Chronic fatigue, adrenal fatigue, and toxicities. See ad page 9.

www.natampa.com

VITAL WELL-BEING CENTER 210 So Pinellas Ave, Suite 106 Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 (727) 786-1661 VitalWell-BeingCenter.com

Our intention is to bring together the best of conventional medicine with an alternative approach to create a practice that would empower each patient to bring greater wellness into his or her own life. Call to schedule an appt with one of our physicians today.

Professional Herbalists Training Program

Acupuncture & Herbal Therapies 222 2nd St. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33705 (727) 551—0857 AcuHerbals.com

The 2-year program meets one weekend each month for class and Wednesday nights for our hands-on student clinic. This program is designed to create clinical herbalists in a combination of Chinese and western herbalism.

Many open classes. Designed to meet American Herbalists Guild standards.

See ad page 26.

astrology Astrology for Your Soul

Aluna Michaels, M.A., Esoteric Astrologer Dunedin (727) 239-7179 alunamichaels.com Second-generation astrologer and Soul Evolutionist practitioner.

Over 25 years of experience.

Insightful, unique perspective on goals and issues. “Together we will unveil your soul’s purpose.”

attorney Law Offices of Steven A. Culbreath, P.A. Steven A. Culbreath Esq. 111 - 2nd Avenue N.E., Suite 900 St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 456-6463 steve@saculbreathlaw.com ImmigrationLawTampaBay.com

Member AILA/prestigious AVrating. Authored articles on U.S. immigration law, visa strategies, legislative / regulatory updates, demystifying government agencies, insight into government practices. Visas, Greencards, Citizenship.

blood analysis Stewart Analysis, Ltd.

Brandi Stewart Microscopist/ Insured Wellness Counselor 15511 N.Florida Ave. Suite 2, Tampa (863) 860-6643 brandi@stewartanalysis.com StewartAnalysis.com Specializing in Live and dry layer blood evaluations utilizing applied dark field microscopic technology for health, education and nutritional improvements. Locations available throughout Florida.

David F. Doering, DDS

coaching Dianne M. Kipp, BSN, PCC, CTT

ICF Certified Coach & Business Culture Consultant Dianne M. Kipp & Associates, LLC (727) 481-1646 coach@diannekipp.com DianneKipp.com

Wanting to achieve the best in your personal relationships, professional or business goals? Try coaching with a certified coach.

You will be amazed at the results!

Coaching Courageous Living choices & senior executives for over 8 years. Complimentary Personal Values Assessments & Intro-session available.

Doering Family Dental 1201 W. Linebaugh Ave., Tampa (813) 933—5365 TampaDentalCare.com Cosmetic and restorative dentistry. Conservative approach to periodontal (gum) treatment. See ad page 19.

Paul T. Rodeghero DDS

Clearwater Family Dental 215 S Myrtle Ave., Clearwater (727) 442-3363 MyClearwaterFamilyDental.com

chiropractic Conforti Chiropractic and Wellness

4040 Tampa Rd., (813) 818—7499 Benttree Clinic 10935 N. Dale Mabry, (813) 969—2225 Conforti’s Crossroads Chiropractic Center 1811 Healthcare Dr., Trinity (727) 376—9611 Providing affordable family plans. See ad pages 37 and 55.

Natural Living Chiropractic & wellness center Dr. Paula Giusto 2102 S. Mac Dill Ave., Tampa (813) 253—2565 NaturalLivingChiropractic.org

Family chiropractic care, wellness care, nutritional counseling, neuromuscular massage therapy.

Jin Shin Jyutsu & craniosacral therapy.

cleaning We Are CONCIERGE!

Nancy Rosenthal, Nicki Bennett (727) 260-1883 WeAreConcierge@yahoo.com Office cleaning, house cleaning, sitting and open-ups. Day and overnight pet care. Utilizing all natural, green, biodegradable, non-toxic products, safe for your family and pets. Serving the Tampa Bay area.

Our practice is a full service family practice. We welcome patients of all ages and can handle any concern that you may present to us. See ad page 13.

colon Hydrotherapy RENEW LIFE

Bonnie Barrett 1153 NE Cleveland St., Clearwater (727) 461—7227 RenewLifeFla.com, Lic# MA14802 MM8132 18 years experience. Specializing in detoxification, digestive care, and weight loss. Services include colon hydrotherapy, lymphatic drainage, massage, Synergie cellulite treatment, infrared sauna for fat burning, and cranial-sacral release.

counseling Willing Heart Counseling

Kerry Knesl, LCSW 105 S. Albany Avenue, Tampa FL 33606 (813) 468-5858 Depression and bipolar disorder, dual diagnosis, eating disorders, anxiety and stress, PTSD, relationship problems, women’s issues, grief, self-esteem issues, adolescent issues, bullying and group therapy.

dentists

Ray Behm, DDS

127 N. Garden Ave., Clearwater 33755 (727) 446—6747 AskDrBehm@SaveYourTeeth.com BehmNaturalDentistry.com Improve your overall health with holistic dentistry! Materials are tested for compatibility with your body. We remove toxic metals, treat root canals, and strengthen teeth and gums with state-of-the-art ozone treatments.

See ad pages 10 and 20.

fertility Dr. Guillermo Caceres, D.O.M., M.D. (Peru)

Tampa Bay Fertility Group, Bloomingdale Acupuncture & Nutrition Wellness Center 114 E. Bloomingdale Ave., Brandon, FL 33511 (813) 341—2200 TampaFertility.com Specializing in natural fertility.

Discover how to take control of your own fertility and become empowered in making a difference to yourself and your future generations.

hypnosis

Beata carlson, DDS

2701 Park Dr. Suite 4, Clearwater, Fl. 33763 (727) 712—3837 NaturalAndCosmeticDentistry.com Natural, Holistic, Aesthetic Dentistry. Careful Silver filling removal. Non-metal crowns, bridges and partials. Be pampered in our Spa-like atmosphere. See ad back cover.

UNLIMITED POSSIBILITIES HYPNOSIS, INC.

Patricia V. Scott, President (727) 943—5003, (866) 537—7746 UPHypnosis@yahoo.com, UPHypnosis.com Professional Hypnosis & NLP Certification Training, Weekly classes & Private sessions (Smoking, Weight, Stress, Sports, Habits), Clinical/Medical Hypnotherapy available w/referral. Speaking Services & Corporate Programs.

See ad page 37.

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integrative medicine St. Petersburg Health & Wellness

Les Cole, MD 222 2nd St. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 202-6807 StPeteHW.com.

Board certified in Anti-Aging/ Regenerative and Integrative/ Holistic Medicine. Specializing in men’s & women’s health, bio-identical hormones, weight, diabetes, hypertension, thyroid, fatigue, stress, gut health, chelation, IV vitamin C, nutrition.

See ad pages 26 and 31.

Mind Body spirit Care Ron N. Shemesh, M.D. 3610 Madaca Lane, Tampa (813) 935—CARE (2273) MindBodySpiritCare.com

Integrative & holistic medicine for women & men: Natural Hormone Therapy, Anti-Aging, IV Chelation, Nutritional Vitamin Therapy, Fatigue & Stress Management, Weight Loss, Yoga, Nutritional Counseling. Affiliated with St. Joseph Hospital. Most insurance accepted.

lifestyle coaching Sarah Boughanmi, LLL, LLM, ESQ (QC.)

1-844-64-LIGHT (54448) LifeGlowOrganics.com,LifeGlowHealth.com FloridaHealthRetreat.com We help you attain a holistic and sustainable lifestyle for: health, beauty, rejuvenation, detox, and wellness. Specializing in produce/sprouts, coaching and retreats.See ad page 47.

Meditation on the Inner Light and Sound 1-877- MEDITATE SantMat.net

Learn how to live in alignment with the soul’s purpose and to experience greater harmony within, with others, and with the environment. Always free, never a charge.

organic produce Tampa Bay Organics

Jessica Papesh (813) 949-1112 TampaBayOrganics.com hello@tampabayorganics.com Tampa Bay Organics delivers fresh, delicious 100% Certified Organic Fruits and Vegetables directly to your home or office.

Customize your delivery schedule and produce preferences to fit your lifestyle! www.TampaBayOrganics.com. See ad page 18.

psychotherapy Lois A. Miller, L.C.S.W., PA

238 E. Davis Blvd. Suite 302, Tampa (813) 258-3906, Fl. Lic. swooo1738 info@mytherapywithheart.com mytherapywithheart.com Integrative and holistic psychotherapy for individuals and couples. Treating anxiety, depression, grief, relationships, trauma, transitioning and more, using EMDR, EFT, mindfulness, and other modalities. See ad page 14.

veterinarian animal alternatives holistic health care Dr. Anne Lampru 238 E. Bearss Ave., Tampa (813) 265—2411 AnimalAlternatives.org

Dr. Anne Lampru has practiced holistic veterinary medicine since 1983. Believing that each pet is unique, she tailors a health restoration or maintenance plan to their individual needs.

See ad page 26.

Medicine River Animal Hospital Shawna L. Green, DVM 14995 Gulf Blvd, Suite J Madeira Beach, FL 33708 (727) 299—9029 MedicineRiverAnimalHospital.com

Compassionate health care catered toward the needs of your pet offering preventative medicine, surgery, dentistry, senior wellness, and more.

See ad page 40.

weight loss HCG ACCELERATED DIET

LifeWorks Wellness Center Sue Morgan, ARNP Sue Minkoff, RN 301 Turner Street, Clearwater, FL 33756, (727) 466 6789 LifeWorksWellnessCenter.com Experience this revolutionary, medically supervised weightloss program, where patients lose 14-20lbs in 24 days.

See ad inside cover.

SUZANNE P. PERSONS, Ph.D., LMHC

meditation Donald J. Glassey, DC, LMT Certified Meditation Instructor 7508 13th Ave. North St. Petersburg, FL 33710 (727) 290-6353 dglassey@tampabay.rr.com

Facilitating classes, workshops and presentations on Meditation, an easy to learn process with physical, mental, and spiritual benefits, including stress reduction, strengthening of the body’s immune system, improved concentration, calmer mind, and natural spiritual growth.

See ad page 45.

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MH#0423 / since 1982 Psychotherapy / Consultation 1700 Park Street North St. Petersburg, FL 33710 (727) 804—1706

EMDR Therapy for stress, trauma and change. Counseling for people with grief, loss, esteem issues; relationship communication, life assessment, direction and goals, father/daughter relationships.

Nature, like man, sometimes weeps from gladness. ~Benjamin Disraeli www.natampa.com

Success by Design

Dr. Tami Horner 9095 Belcher Rd, Pinellas Park (727) 548-0001 SuccessByDesignWeightLoss.com.

Our Medical Weight Loss Program is designed to meet YOUR unique individual needs and lifestyle. It is not a starvation or fad diet. You will not only lose the weight you desire, but you will learn how to change your lifestyle so that you are successful in keeping your weight off. See ad page 27.

How much longer will you be okay with SICK CARE!?

With all of the changes in insurance, making your HEALTH CARE work for you is more important than ever.

We currently have SICK CARE, not HEALTH CARE Last year Americans spent $2.8 trillion on healthcare. That is around $8,000 per person.

So does this mean that we are all healthy and living well?

Absolutely NOT! In fact, we lead the world in heart disease, obesity, and cancer.

Astonishingly, 5 out of 6 Americans will be diagnosed with either heart disease or cancer.

If we were spending the most money in healthcare and had the healthiest people, maybe it would be worth it. But we are spending the most money AND have the unhealthiest people.

In a study by the Journal of the American Medical Association, of 37 different developed countries the United States ranked 37th (dead last) in terms of overall health of the population.

SO where are we spending all of this money?

When we are sick or in pain, we go to the doctor. We get prescriptions to help cure and prevent illness and pain. What do we do when that medication has a side effect or no longer works? We go back and get more medications for the next side effect. Americans take up 5% of the world’s population, yet we consume 85% of the world’s medications. You would think that if drugs make you healthy then we would be the healthiest nation, and that is far from the truth. We had 1.1 million people die last year because of drugs and these are not street drugs like heroin or other illegal drugs. These are prescription drugs that were prescribed for the right condition, the right amount, the right time.

Prescriptions are not the only culprit, a large amount of that money is spent in nursing homes and cancer treatment centers.

We have so many sick and ailing people in our population that we are seeing more and more longterm nursing facilities. People may be living longer, but we are not living better.

The focus needs to change. We cannot be okay with a health system that has no regard for health.

It is time to take the focus off of SICK care and focus on health.

TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR HEALTH A lot of people believe that genetics are to blame for the disease we see in our society today, but only 2-5% of degenerative illnesses are actually caused by genetics. So that leaves 95-98% of disease that is caused by lifestyle.

The foods we eat, the drinks we drink, and the habits we live are the main cause of the increase in disease.

Our offices are focused on HEALTH care.

We recognize that health is not just about what you eat and whether or not you exercise. Our offices implement maximized mind, maximized nutrition, maximized nerve supply, maximized oxygen and lean muscle. We personalize each care plan and work with our patients to establish health and wellness goals that create a healthy lifestyle that maximizes each patients’ quality of life.

We offer full health and wellness care that excludes drugs, shots, and harmful combinations or both. Our goal is to make sure our patients live the healthiest life possible.

BUT WHAT TRULY SETS US APART FROM ALL OTHER WELLNESS CLINICS It is our dedication to whole health wellness.

Our patients are not just adjusted and sent on their way. We spend time focusing on spinal CORRECTION not just spinal alignment. By providing our patients with in office and at home stretching, strengthening, and lifestyle changes, our patients are the healthiest they can possibly be without introducing toxins. It is truly about balance and focus on health.

What does CORRECTIVE CARE mean?

If your spine and Central Nervous System are “abnormal,” there is a need for corrective chiropractic care. This type of care will restore “normal” spinal position and alignment. By properly restoring normal curves to the spine and aligning the vertebrae, it will eliminate interferences allowing your body to function and heal “normally.” This optimizes your chance to live at 100% of your body’s peak performance.

A healthy spine will allow your body to express a normal body temperature, a normal blood pressure, and other measureable norms for the spine itself.

There are four primary curves of the spine in the lateral (side) view of the spine.

These curves give the spine strength, stability, and flexibility. Any loss of integrity of these curves can affect the function of the nervous system as this is the basis of evolution. These misalignments can put further stress on several aspects of the spine including the soft tissue structures, muscles, ligaments and discs that support the spine and its normal function.

Much like braces straighten teeth, it is our aim to restore the proper alignment of your spine. Recent research allows us to now know the measurements and proper alignment of your spine. There is a normal body temperature, a normal blood pressure, and there are measureable norms for the spine. We take the necessary steps to restore the regions of abnormal alignment to normal through whole health wellness.

Obtaining the level of normal alignment allows us to cure and prevent disease that otherwise leads to a lifetime of harmful shots and pills.

Take the next step and allow your body to function at 100% of peak performance.

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$

THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR ANY PAYMENT OR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT WHICH IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OR RESPONDING TO THE FREE, DISCOUNTED, OR REDUCED FEE, SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT.

WITH 6 TAMPA BAY AREA LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU Conforti Chiropractic and Wellness Center, Inc. 4040 Tampa Road, Oldsmar, FL 34677 813.818.7499 Conforti’s Crossroads 1811 Healthcare Drive, Trinity, FL 34655 727.376.9611 Benttree Clinic 10935 N Dale Mabry, Tampa, FL 813.969.2225 New Tampa Chiropractic and Injury 2312 Crestover Lane #102 Wesley Chapel, FL 33544 813.994.6111 Palma Ceia Chiropractic and Wellness 1502 S MacDill Ave, Tampa, FL 33629 813.251.0246 St Pete Chiropractic and Injury Center 2206 4th Street North, St. Pete, FL 33704 727.822.6700

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