2020 Natural Living Directory by Natural Awakenings Magazine

E E FR

HEALTHY

LIVING

HEALTHY

PLANET

2020

NATURAL LIVING DIRECTORY

2020 | Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition | eNaturalAwakenings.com Natural Living Directory 2020

The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center z

The Natural Choice

Optimize Your Smile and Your Health! Whole-Body Dentistry® provides comprehensive oral health care using traditional and holistic approaches. We understand the "mouth-body connection." Mark A. Breiner, DDS

Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry Fellow of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology Speaker and best-selling author of WHOLE-BODY DENTISTRY®

Mercury-free for over 30 years. Dr. Breiner is a pioneer and recognized authority in the ﬁeld of biological and holistic dentistry.

Doesn't It Make Sense To See The Authority?

Join our FREE online health newsletter! 501 Kings Highway East, Suite 108 | Fairﬁeld, CT | 203-371-0300 | WholeBodyDentistry.com

Caring Integrative Physicians Offering the Best in Holistic Healing The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center

Our integrative approach treats a wide range of conditions including:

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Difficulting Concentrating Female Concerns Fibromyalgia Gastrointestinal Concerns Healthy Aging Hormonal Issues Immune Disorders

We can help you get your health back in balance naturally with proven treatments and therapies:

David Johnston, DO Osteopathic Medicine Cranial Osteopathy

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To learn more, watch our website videos.

Whole-Body Medicine, LLC ~ The Natural Approach for Optimal Health 2

501 Kings Highway East, Suite 108 | Fairfield, CT | 203-371-8258 | WholeBodyMed.com Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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Isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t It Time For a Different Approach?

Natural Living Directory 2020

Contents 14 SALON APONTE Celebrating 30 Years of Healthier Beauty 16 SACRED VESSELS

The Lifeblood of Heart Health

24 RENEWING HOPE

Regenerative Medicine Upends Traditional Prognoses

30 JUST THE FACTS

A Doctor’s Advice to Patients about Regenerative Medicine

40 NATURAL LIVING

Chiren •

DIRECTORY 2020

72 USE YOUR

THOUGHT POWER

Three Steps to Inner Peace

74 HEAL, EVOLVE AND

TRANSFORM IN 2020

84 FOLLOW YOUR

GUIDING STARS Acupuncture | Dental Hygiene Chiropractic | Naturopathic Medicine  Open to the public  Cost-effective comprehensive healthcare  Emphasizes prevention and wellness

CALL

to schedule an appointment: (203) 576-4349

 State-of-the-art, patient-centered care  Combines the best of conventional approaches with lifestyle modifications  No insurance needed

60 Lafayette Street, Bridgeport, CT bridgeport.edu/UBclinics

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

Horse Wisdom for a New Decade

86 PAIN RELIEF FOR PETS

Prolotherapy Gives Joints New Life

DEPARTMENTS 8 health briefs 10 global briefs 12 eco tip 14 community

spotlight 36 fit body 38 inspiration 40 natural living directory

eNaturalAwakenings.com

76 green living 78 conscious

eating 82 inspiration 84 naturally healthy pet 90 calendar 93 classified 94 display ad index

Natural Awakenings is a family of more than 70 healthy living magazines celebrating 26 years of providing the communities we serve with the tools and resources we all need to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

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ADVERTISING & SUBMISSIONS HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 203-885-4674 or email FFCAdvertising@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com. Deadline for ads: the 12th of the month. EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com. Deadline for News Briefs: the 8th of the month. CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com. Deadline for magazine calendar listings: the 12th of the month. Website calendar listings may be entered at any time. 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 239-434-9392. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

“Highly recommend! This is the go-to place for anyone who is skeptical or has any reservations about Cosmetic Laser treatments for the skin. Hilda is an encyclopedia of skin care/laser knowledge. Just one session greatly improved my skin’s texture and tone, adding fullness by stimulating my skin’s own collagen. I walked in with dull, dry, tired skin and left with bright, smooth, tightened and glowing skin! Hilda’s soft-spoken demeanor yet authoritative tone immediately put me at ease. Can't wait for the next sessions for further results. Stop searching for skin care spas. Make an appointment with Hilda. Your skin will love you for it.” Deborah S.

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HildaDemirjianLaser.com 8 HildaDemirjianSkincare.com Natural Living Directory 2020

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

FAIRFIELD COUNTY/ HOUSATONIC VALLEY Publisher Nicole Miale

Managing Editor Patricia Staino

Editor Michelle Bense Design & Production Kathleen Fellows Erica Mills Contributing Writers Paige Dest Roger Dubin Greer Jonas Patricia Staino

Sales & Marketing Nicole Miale Social Media Amy Hass

Website Erica Mills Distribution Man in Motion LLC

CONTACT US 137 Danbury Rd, #323, New Milford, CT 06776 Phone: 203-885-4674 Fax: 203-516-2392 NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com eNaturalAwakenings.com SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available by sending $30 (for 12 issues) to the above address.

NATIONAL TEAM CEO/Founder Sharon Bruckman COO/Franchise Sales Joe Dunne National Editor Jan Hollingsworth Managing Editor Linda Sechrist National Art Director Stephen Blancett Art Director Josh Pope Financial Manager Yolanda Shebert Asst. Director of Ops Heather Gibbs Digital Content Director Rachael Oppy National Advertising Lisa Doyle-Mitchell Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 4933 Tamiami Trail N., Ste. 203 Naples, FL 34103 Ph: 239-434-9392 • Fax: 239-434-9513 NaturalAwakeningsMag.com © 2020 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. 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. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

letter from publisher

elcome to the 2020 Natural Living Directory! Each February we present a showcase reference guide spotlighting the businesses and practitioners in the region; this edition is a celebration and gathering of many unique resources our area has to offer. In this special issue, we expand and move the Community Resource Guide toward the front of the magazine. We include extensive profiles of many wellness providers and businesses as well as a Natural Living Glossary to help you better understand terminology which may be new. No matter what your personal vision is for this year, Nicole Miale we hope you find connections in these pages that support your efforts to become a healthier, happier you. The depth and breadth of this edition make it a valuable reference guide to be referred to in times of need. Don’t worry if you lend your copy out and it doesn’t come back! You’ll have plenty of opportunities to pick up another; this special edition will be found throughout Fairfield and southwestern Litchfield Counties at our major rack distribution points, events and conferences throughout 2020. You can also find the digital edition on eNaturalAwakenings.com or visit our Facebook page for the link. As for our content this month, we look at some topics of relevance to many individuals. Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) continues to be a leading cause of death in this country, affecting many people of all backgrounds. While there may be underlying physical causes to be addressed, lifestyle choices have been found to play a critical role. The choices we make over time can have tremendous impact on the physical results we may expect. This is true even if you’ve already, like me, suffered a cardiovascular event of some kind. Not all damage can be reversed but there is always room for improvement and prevention is key; our articles this month provide a valuable blueprint from which to work. Interested in how people could take more control over their healing by working with their own genetic material, Managing Editor Patricia Staino spoke to local experts in Connecticut about the field of regenerative medicine. Though still costly and not yet covered by most insurance plans, regenerative medicine shows much promise in a variety of conditions and situations. Treatments are becoming more available and represent exciting alternatives for pain relief and self-healing. I hope the articles this month will inspire you to take steps to improve your physical condition. Any improvement you consciously make will move you in a healthier direction; nothing you do will be in vain even if it seems like a very small step. Empowering positive lifestyle change is the driving mission for this publication. Learn to surf the waves of uncertainty and use your infinite power for your own good. Let the amazing resources in this edition guide and support you on your journey. Use the ideas and tools that appeal to you; then let your increased positive energy ripple back out into the world around you. It will make a bigger difference than you could ever know. Wishing you vibrant good health, this month and always!

Natural Awakenings Magazine is ranked 5th Nationally in CISION’S® 2016 Top 10 Health & Fitness Magazines

See our display advertiser index on page 94, making it easier to find the resources you need.

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Practice Qigong Massage to Improve Autism Symptoms in Children Qigong, a traditional Chinese massage technique and movement practice, may offer hope for the one in 68 American children suffering from autism spectrum disorder. Researchers at Portugal’s Oporto University reviewed 10 highquality studies, all of which involved massage for children as young as 2, including two which also employed slow qigong movements and breathwork for older children. Previous studies have found that the qigong type of gentle massage practiced for 15 minutes daily by parents on autistic children helps the children tolerate touch, feel reassured by it and bond more deeply with parents that also feel less stress. The meta-study affirmed, “Qigong seems to be able to decrease severity of individual sensory, behavioral and language components of autism, and improve self-control, sociability, sensory and cognitive awareness, as well as healthy physical behavior.”

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health briefs

Try Mind-Body Options to Reduce Opioid-Treated Pain People suffering from acute pain often turn to addictive opioid treatments, but research from the University of Utah School of Social Work published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine concluded that certain mind-body therapies significantly reduce pain and the use of opioids. Reviewing 60 randomized, controlled, published clinical trials with more than 6,400 participants, researchers found that meditation/mindfulness, therapeutic suggestion and cognitive behavioral therapy all significantly reduced pain severity along with opioid use and misuse. Hypnosis also helped lower pain. Mind-body therapies proved effective at reducing short-term, acute pain from medical procedures, as well as chronic pain. Lead author and Associate Dean for Research Eric Garland pointed out that 82,000 Americans are projected to die from opioid overdoses in the next five years and noted, “If all of us—doctors, nurses, social workers, policymakers, insurance companies and patients—use this evidence as we make decisions, we can help stem the tide of the opioid epidemic.”

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Natural Living Directory 2020

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global briefs

Clear Thinking

UNESCO Adopts Resolution on Earth Charter

Water Win

Fresh H20 Comes to Kenya Town

A drought-plagued Kenyan region is using a new, solar-powered, desalination plant from the international nonprofit GivePower to obtain clean water. Before the plant’s arrival in the town of Kiunga, villagers had completely run out of clean drinking water and had to use dirty well water and saltwater from the Indian Ocean. The new solar water farm produces enough drinking water that’s cleaner than typical desalination plants for more than 35,000 people every day. GivePower has a mission of using renewable energy as a means of bringing water, food and energy to places that need it most. They plan on building similar facilities in other drought-prone countries such as Colombia and Haiti.

Heal. Enlighten. Renew. Holistic healing services, sessions, classes and programs for body, mind and spirit Reiki, Gong Bath, IET®, Life Coaching, Meditation, Mediumship, Shamanic Healing, SRT, Tarot, Yoga, Zero Balancing, and much more. 100B Danbury Road, Suite 101, Ridgeﬁeld, CT Ph. 203-438-3050, turningpointreiki.com

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

Green Horizons

Marrying forestry to technology, the startup Flash Forest, in Toronto, is using aerial drones to plant trees 10 times faster than human planters with a goal of 1 billion trees by 2028. Since testing prototype devices last year, it has already planted several thousand trees across Ontario using pre-germinated seed pods containing a mixture of species. The drones are capable of planting trees at just 50 cents per pod, or a quarter of the cost of typical planting methods. Funded partly by a Kickstarter campaign, the group will start planting trees in April, with at least 150,000 in the ground by the end of this year. At full capacity, one drone operator will be able to plant 100,000 seed pods per day. Flash Forest spokesperson Angelique Ahlstrom says, “Our goals are to have a significant and measurable impact on mitigating climate change in the next decade, while combatting deforestation and biodiversity loss on a global scale. We feel we are one of the only ways that the federal government will be able to fulfill its pledge to plant 2 billion trees in the next 10 years.”

JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT Founder, Reiki Master Teacher, ph. 203-438-3050 Maria Amore Davis, RMT Reiki Master, Tarot Teacher, ph. 203-434-3411 Stacey Decea, CSW Evidential Psychic Medium, Teacher, Mentor, ph. 914-588-6196 Jann Draper Elliott, OT, LMT, CHC Certiﬁed Zero Balancer, Health Coach, ph. 203-482-1329 Deana Paqua, MA, LMT Shamanic Healer & Teacher, ph. 203-994-5045 Jen Ripa, RM Life Coach, Yoga Teacher, Energy Healer, ph. 203-216-9416 Karen Serrao, RM Reiki Master, Certiﬁed SRT Practitioner, ph. 914-215-4774

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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A Billion Trees in Eight Years

Alex Yuzhakov/Shutterstock.com

The 40th General Conference of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), held last November, adopted a resolution that reaffirms the importance of the Earth Charter (EarthCharter.org) as an ethical framework for sustainable development. The Charter’s four pillars—respect and care for the community of life; ecology integrity; social and economic justice; and democracy, non-violence and peace—have guided and underpinned UNESCO’s sustainable development work. Taking into account the current world situation and environmental crises, delegates felt it was time to act and that the Earth Charter provides the needed principles and values. Although it has no binding force, like previous UNESCO resolutions, its ethical foundation may surface in future battles in international courts.

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Expanding Possibility Through Vision • Eye Exams for All Ages • Dry Eyes, Computer Use & Sports Vision • Treatment for Eye Diseases • Eyeglasses & Specialty Contact Lenses • Iridology, Vision Therapy & Preventive Care

Seal Deal

Fishermen Protect Endangered Sea Mammals

In 1969, there were only 100 South American fur seals and sea lions along the coastline of Lima, the capitol of Peru, but that has increased to more than 8,000 today, thanks to local fishermen that have realized over the intervening years that a balanced ecosystem benefits all. Once hunted almost to the point of no return for their pelts and because they ate so many fish, the sea mammals have slowly rebounded since Peru established its first marine protection area there in 1979, the Paracas Marine Reserve. Today, the Fishermen’s Union has defined these areas, in which each local fishing collective is dependent economically, and has assigned responsibility to that group for protecting those marine resources. Impetus for species protection is also being driven by the rise of tourism and artisanal fisheries. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature, which maintains a “Red List” database of species and the degree to which they are threatened with extinction, has also been involved. It also compiles a “Green List” to recognize global best practices for area-based conservation, a program working with marine reserves along the Pacific coast.

Dr. Randy Schulman, M.S., O.D., FCOVD • Dr. Narvan Bennett, O.D. Dr. Stephen Carr, O.D. • Dr. Jason Grygier, O.D. • Dr. Caitlin Rustemeyer, O.D. Dr. Steven Shaby, O.D. • Dr. Sonia Singh, O.D. • Dr. Evan Tirado, O.D.

www.cteyecareassociates.com 6515 Main Street Trumbull, CT 06611 203-374-2020

2600 Post Road Southport, CT 06890 203-255-4005

444 Westport Ave. Norwalk, CT 06851 203-840-1991

1425 Bedford Street, 1M Stamford, CT 06905 203-357-0204

Organic Based Hair and Skin Care Celebrating 30 Years in Business!

The best thing about our products is what we leave out! Beautiful hair shouldn’t be hazardous to your health.

Specializing in all forms of Hair Coloring • Highlighting • Balayage We’re Dedicated To Every Client. Because of you there is a change for the better!

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Husky & most insurance accepted Natural Living Directory 2020

Clean and Green Eco-Laundry Tips

By laundering clothes using simple ingredients and wise eco-practices, consumers can both save money and lower their carbon footprint. Natural cleaning ingredients cited by TheEcoGuide.org include white vinegar, baking soda, lemons, borax and castile soap, all of which “can be bought in bulk with minimal packaging and have known cleaning properties that make them safe, effective and carbon-friendly alternatives.” Coarse salt is also suggested due to its mold-fighting power. Look for biodegradable laundry detergents made with plant oils and other natural ingredients that are free of phosphates, bleach and surfactants such as petroleumbased nonylphenol ethoxylates. Consider coldwater washing. About 90 percent of the

energy a washing machine uses goes toward heating water. By washing four out of five loads in cold water, a household could cut its carbon emissions by 864 pounds a year, according to Energy Star data from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Because the cold setting may still heat the water to as much as 80° F, see if the washer has a preferable “tap cold” option. Also, the temperature recommendations on clothing labels represent “the highest spectrum clothes can handle,” Melissa Hockstad, president and chief executive of the American Cleaning Institute, recently told The New York Times, so the hottest water won’t necessarily clean clothes better. During rinsing, natural disinfectants that can be added include a few drops of peppermint or lavender essential oil; two teaspoons of tea tree oil; white vinegar (one-half cup per load); or one teaspoon of grapefruit seed extract. Always assemble a full load of laundry each time. Line drying outdoors or on a drying rack indoors also conserves energy and is gentler on fabrics. Further, learn how to make homemade, felted wool dryer balls at DIYNatural.com; tossing four to six of them in each dryer load saves time, energy and money plus reduces static cling. And consider running the dryer early in the morning or overnight: this shifts energy consumption to off-peak hours, which lowers the demand on power plants and could help reduce national reliance on fossil fuels.

Photos by Phyllis Meredith Photography

Two Coyotes Wilderness School offers extraordinary Summer Camps and year round Wilderness Programs for kids 0-17 years old. Kids will learn how to: DON’T MISS OUR FREE • Identify plants and animals • Build fires OPEN HOUSE EVENT IN NEWTOWN! • Make shelters & forts • Connect more meaningfully • Create nature art to people & nature Saturday, March 28th • Gather wild edibles Sticks & Stones Farm - 197 Huntingtown Road

Two Coyotes also offers… • • • • •

Weekday programs for homeschool & public school students Weekend programs for kids and adults Coyote Pups for caregivers & children 0-5 Field trips & in school programs Scholarships and tuition assistance for families in need

Camp staff will lead nature activities, games, and crafts for the whole family

Email programs@twocoyotes.org or visit www.TwoCoyotes.org for more information 12

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eco tip

Natural Living Directory 2020

community spotlight

SALON APONTE Celebrating 30 Years of Healthier Beauty by Nicole Miale

t is truly a feat worth celebrating when an enterprise hits a major milestone such as decades in business. Monroe’s Salon Aponte has now done just that, marking 30 years in business in February of this year. Led by salon owner Nancy Aponte, Salon Aponte has long been an eco-minded beauty leader in the region. The salon’s conversion to more organic and healthy products began as a direct result of owner Nancy Aponte’s personal experience. She remembers the day she realized her occupation could be harming her health. “I was applying color and the ammonia went straight into my lungs,” she recalls. “I coughed and coughed. It was awful and I remember thinking, ‘there’s no way this can be good for me.’” After working at the salon since 1980, Aponte went on to buy it in 1990 and never looked back. Her overhaul of the product line was gradual in some respects, starting with the refilling of containers and using low VOC sprays. Over the years, the 14

inventory of healthier products being offered is continually growing, recently expanding to even include organic, pharmaceutical grade CBD products. Aponte says the evolution of the salon has allowed her to provide not only a valuable, healthier service for her clients, but also a healthier work environment for the stylists who work there. “When I started looking into all this in the beginning, I realized it went much deeper than I first thought,” she explains. “The toxins surrounding us are almost unavoidable. But they're some things we can do something about. We’re not going to stop coloring our hair, doing our nails and wearing makeup, so the idea is to find new companies doing good things and bring those healthier products to the store. It’s fun for me and our clients.” In part because of Aponte’s dedication to using a cleaner product line, she finds many of her newer clients are interested in the same thing. Whether they are in treatment for an illness, are pregnant or

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are just trying to live a healthier lifestyle, she says clients appreciate the salon’s attention to the details. “Our products are cruelty-free and vegan as much as possible,” she explains. “And we research what goes into the products so we can serve the needs of even highly sensitive individuals. Plenty of things on the market will tout that they’re ammonia-free, but what they’ve replaced the ammonia with may be just as detrimental to your health. I do a lot of research before we take on a product, so I can tell people what we have and don’t have in the products we carry.” The salon now carries safer hair color options, allowing stylists and clients to be creative and still have great results with all forms of coloring, highlighting and grey coverage. This is a big deal since the salon specializes in all types of bayalage highlighting. While she recognizes it may not be possible to eliminate all toxins, Aponte is still determined to create and maintain a safe and fun place for her staff and clients to explore and play with beauty and wellness products. That includes products such as Beautycounter skin care and makeup, a Santa Monica, California company known for producing high quality products without the use of more than 1,500 harmful or questionable ingredients. “What I always strive to do is provide safer alternatives for beauty and self-care in a friendly and relaxing environment,” Aponte says. To that end, Aponte has joined forces with RPM (Relief, Protection, Moisture), a line of organic, pharmaceuticalgrade CBD oil products including a thickening shampoo and revitalizing spray that provides the nutrients needed for thicker, fuller hair. Other RPM products are available, ranging from muscle and joint relief cream, treatment and thickening shampoos and conditioners, body lotion, shower gel, lip balm and soon-to-be-released gummies for relieving anxiety and pain while supporting immune function. The gummies are also available with an optional melatonin addition, says Aponte.

New eco-initiatives underway this year include evaluating ways to recycle hair color and hairspray containers as well as the foils used during various coloring procedures and the cut hair itself. Always concerned about the overall health of the community, Salon Aponte sponsored a Cut-athon for Save the

“Our products are cruelty-free and vegan as much as possible,” she explains. “And we research what goes into the products so we can serve the needs of even highly sensitive individuals.” Sound two years ago, raising funds for efforts to clean up the Long Island Sound and partners with Kevin Murphy (KM), an enterprise that partners with 4Ocean. All KM containers are now made with ocean waste plastic; they are currently the only brand doing this, but Aponte hopes they are just the first. This month, to celebrate its anniversary, Salon Aponte will offer complimentary hair masques, along with color services or buy one, get one 50 percent off product specials. Aponte looks forward to the years ahead and will continue to search out and team up with like-minded companies offering safer alternatives for all. Salon Aponte is located at 838 Main St, Tollgate Plaza, Monroe. Salon hours are Tuesday and Friday from 9am to 5pm; Wednesday and Thursday from 9am to 8pm and Saturday from 8am to 4pm. For more information or to make an appointment, call 203-261-2838 or visit SalonAponte.com and use the online booking. See ad, page 11.

Connection, Recovery, and Healing Through Yoga Practice

Join Yoga Teacher Bre Ferguson and Counselor Liz Driscoll Jorgensen for a 90 minute gentle yoga practice focused towards stress relief, boosting your recovery goals (in addiction, anxiety, and/or depression), and to feel more connected with yourself while helping to heal connection with others. Practice will be suitable for all bodies and abilities.

When: Saturday February 1st Or February 29th 11am-12:30pm Where:Insight Counseling LLC, 105 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield, Ct Fee:

$40 each person, $60 for 2 family members

For more info and to sign up please call Christine at (203) 431-9726

Nicole Miale is Publisher and Executive Editor of Natural Awakenings Fairfield County. Connect at NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsmag.com. Natural Living Directory 2020

SACRED VESSELS

by Julie Peterson

hen people think about heart health, what generally comes to mind is the fist-sized muscle that pumps and oxygenates the body’s lifeblood. However, the heart of the matter is not the pump itself, but the vascular system— the network of veins, arteries and capillaries that distributes blood to every cell in the body, delivering nutrients and eliminating waste. Each human adult harbors an astonishing 60,000 miles of blood vessels—enough to wrap around the planet twice. Keeping these hard-working vessels supple and open is the key not only to avoiding disease, but also to ensuring a long and healthy life. The alternative—arteriosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries—can slowly and silently bring on cardiovascular disease (CVD), which can result in a heart attack, stroke, vision loss and cognitive decline. CVD is the leading cause of death in the U.S., killing one in four Americans, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). By 2035, nearly half the population—45 percent— is predicted to have some form of the disease. “A hundred years ago, we were farming the back 40 with a team of hors16

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es, eating what we grew. Kids don’t get out and ride bikes; they’re playing video games and eating crap. There’s very little doubt how we got to this problem,” says John Osborne, M.D., director of cardiology at State of the Heart Cardiology, near Dallas. Yet, the nation’s number one killer, which can fester for decades without symptoms, is largely preventable and reversible. Only 15 percent of CVD is related to genetics; the rest is attributed to lifestyle, and the right choices can make all the difference. The key is to adopt heart-healthy habits before the body delivers a potentially fatal warning. “The initial presentation of heart disease can be an acute catastrophic event that results in death in half the men and two-thirds of the women. That’s not treatable,” warns Osborne.

Know the Risk Factors

The first step toward cardiovascular health is awareness. Important indicators of CVD risk include: 4 High blood pressure (over 140/90) 4 High cholesterol (over 240 mg/dL) 4 High triglycerides (over 200 mg/dL) 4 High blood glucose (over 140 mg/dL) 4 Obesity (BMI over 30) 4 Inflammation (hsCRP test above 2 ml/dL) 4 Physical inactivity (less than 30 minutes a day) 4 Smoking or vaping (any at all) 4 Chronic stress 4 Loneliness

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The Lifeblood of Heart Health

Any of these factors can increase the risk of CVD, but possessing a cluster of the first five comprises a condition called metabolic syndrome, which significantly increases the potential for heart disease and Type 2 diabetes—itself a significant risk factor that can damage blood vessels, as well as the organs they support. “While diabetes is the seventh-leading cause of death in the United States, this figure belies the fact that most people with diabetes die of heart disease, kidney failure and other complications,” says Brenda Davis, RD, of Alberta, Canada, author of Kick Diabetes Essentials: The Diet and Lifestyle Guide. Metabolic syndrome, like CVD, has few obvious symptoms and is on the rise: Nearly one-third of adults in the U.S. have it, according to the CDC. The one distinct marker for the condition is an accumulation of fat around the waistline, characterized by a measurement of over 35 inches for women and 40 for men.

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“When a disease is lifestyle-induced, the only thing that can reverse it is a dramatic change in diet and lifestyle,” says Davis. “We’ve seen over and over again that it works.”

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n Know the Numbers

CVD flies under the radar even though it’s increasingly common at younger ages. The Journal of the American Medical Association released a study in December 2019 stating that about one in four young adults in the U.S. have pre-diabetes, putting them at increased risk for Type 2 diabetes and CVD. Lisa McDowell, director of clinical nutrition and wellness at St. Joseph’s Mercy Health System, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and team dietitian for the Detroit Red Wings, works with elite athletes of all ages and notes that they more likely know their favorite player’s jersey number than their own health numbers. “Learn what your blood pressure is, know your body mass index, get your cholesterol levels and triglycerides and your [hemoglobin] A1C. Know these numbers early on and, if there’s a problem, fix it,” she advises. While simple blood tests help monitor indicators for CVD, more sophisticated tests can be even more revealing. In 2018, the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association (AHA) jointly issued new guidelines for patients over age 50 to get a computerized tomography (CT) scan to determine their calcium score. The procedure checks for hardening of the arteries and predicts the risk of a 10-year future cardiovascular event.

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“This identifies people who have pre-clinical atherosclerosis, regardless of risk factors,” says Osborne. “It also helps people modify behaviors, because they are faced with a diagnosis.” Yale R. Smith, a Melbourne, Florida, M.D., who specializes in metabolic and functional medicine, utilizes the U.S. Food & Drug Administration-approved protein unstable lesion signature (PULS) blood test. Recommended for patients in their 40s, it measures inflammatory biomarkers for the body’s immune system response to arterial injury and provides a chronological heart age and risk of a CVD event. “If you can show someone the future, it’s a wake-up call to make lifestyle changes to increase longevity,” Smith says.

n Eat for Heart Health

Perhaps the single most important change that people can make is diet. “But a lot of people don’t want lifestyle medicine—they’d rather take a statin with their Big Mac,” says McDowell. Preventing or reversing CVD requires diligence, but it’s largely about eating real, whole food—and mostly plants. This means avoiding processed foods and consuming less salt, trans fats, saturated fat and cholesterol; and more fruits, vege-

There’s not an excess of blueberries in the American diet; there’s an excess of relatively inexpensive, highly processed junk foods in large containers. ~Lisa McDowell tables, whole grains, nuts and seeds. “There’s not an excess of blueberries in the American diet; there’s an excess of relatively inexpensive, highly processed junk foods in large containers,” says McDowell. Overcoming the urge to grab fast and easy foods requires education. “Everyone needs to learn how to read a food label and avoid foods linked to vascular disease,” she adds. Vegans have healthier cholesterol levels in their blood compared to vegetarians, which in turn have better levels than meat-eaters. Study-verified diets that lower CVD indicators also include the Mediterranean diet, as well as two developed by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute: the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet and the Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes (TLC) diet, which also addresses exercise and weight control. “I don’t believe that one diet fits everybody, but there’s a preponderance of ev-

idence that the more plant compounds you get, the better off you are,” says McDowell.

Some cardiovascular boosters:

Leafy greens flush out excess sodium and magnesium, and reduce inflammation. Berries improve circulation by boosting nitric oxide, which expands blood vessels. Pomegranate juice lowers blood pressure and reduces plaque formation. Walnuts, peanuts and almonds lower LDL, the “bad cholesterol”. Oily fish, chia and flax seeds with omega-3 fatty acids lower triglycerides. Soy with anti-inflammatory isoflavones helps dilate blood vessels. “We could eat tofu, tempeh, miso, edamame, soy beans or even organic soy ‘veggie meats’ in place of red meat,” says Davis. Yogurt, kefir and other fermented probiotic dairy products help improve glycemic control, blood lipids, cholesterol and blood pressure. Supplements can be very helpful: Red yeast rice extract, much like a statin, significantly lowers total cholesterol and LDL. Coenzyme Q10, a powerful antioxidant, lowers blood pressure and combats the side effects of statins. Omega-3s in fish oil supplements reduce heart risk in healthy people and those already diagnosed with CVD risk.

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Nicotinamide riboside improves blood pressure and arterial health in those with mild hypertension. Garlic, fresh or in capsules, can lower cholesterol and blood pressure.

n Move It

Sitting all day and then briefly exercising doesn’t provide the same benefit as moving periodically throughout the day. Take more frequent breaks from sitting, get up to move around for a couple of minutes every 30 minutes. Exercise strengthens the endothelium, the innermost of an artery’s three layers, and produces nitric oxide, which helps keep arteries open and healthy. Getting the blood moving lowers cholesterol and blood pressure, and increases oxygen and nutrients to the body. Exercising outdoors provides additional benefits. Research from the Barcelona Institute for Global Health found that exposure to green spaces helped prevent metabolic syndrome.

n Stress Less, Socialize More

Spending even 20 minutes outdoors in nature can do wonders for high blood pressure and cortisol levels, studies show. Walking or talking with a friend deepens social engagement, a key factor in lowering CVD risk: “Having the right tribe is crucial,” says McDowell. “If you’re with people who support you and make you laugh, you feel less stress.” Walking a dog outdoors gets three cardiovascular pluses— exercise, nature and sociability, as dogs tend to be tail-wagging ice-breakers. Further, merely stroking a pet lowers blood pressure. Apps like Headspace and Insight Timer make it easy to do meditation, which studies suggest may reduce overall CVD risk.

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n Don’t Smoke

Not starting to smoke or vape at all is ideal for cardiovascular health, but quitting allows the body to begin to heal, reducing the risk of coronary heart disease after one year by 50 percent, reports the AHA; 14 years later, the risk is the same as a non-smoker’s. “It’s not intuitively easy to make healthy decisions,” says McDowell. “We have to learn how to make good choices.” Julie Peterson writes from rural Wisconsin. Connect at JuliePeterson2222@gmail.com.

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Natural Living Directory 2020

High Cholesterol

A waxy, fat-like substance found in all cells of the body, cholesterol can pile up (mostly as a consequence of poor diet) and stick to arterial walls, creating plaque that stymies blood flow to the heart.

High Triglycerides

The end product of digesting fats in food, triglycerides become fat in the blood that gives the body energy. Numbers climb with consumption of refined carbohydrates, simple sugars and fatty foods, contributing to arteriosclerosis.

Assess Personal Risk

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure occurs when the force of blood pushing against the vessel walls is too high, making the heart and vessels work harder. The friction damages the endothelium—the inner lining of veins and arteries—plaque builds up, the vessels

Metabolic Syndrome

A cluster of conditions that affect up to a third of Americans, metabolic syndrome is defined by high blood pressure; high levels of blood sugar, cholesterol and triglycerides; and excess fat around the waist. It’s closely linked to Type 2 diabetes, another CVD risk factor.

Obesity

Obesity—which afflicts almost 40 percent of American adults— causes chronic inflammation, harms the endothelium and caus-

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narrow and blood pressure increases even more. Contributing factors include being sedentary, overweight and consuming excessive alcohol or salt.

es poor cholesterol numbers. A 12-year study of 17,640 Europeans, published in the European Heart Journal, found that obese people with metabolic risk factors were two-and-a-half times as likely to have heart disease as those of normal weight.

Stress

When stressed by such factors as work overload, family strife or traumatic memories, the body releases adrenaline, which causes acceleration of breathing and heart rate, contraction of vessels and a rise in blood sugar. Chronic stress can cause constricted arteries that lead to arteriosclerosis and inflammation of the endothelium. Further, stressed people often turn to vascular-destructive activities such as smoking, drinking and binge eating.

Standard American Diet (SAD)

Previous studies have linked processed

foods to hypertension and high cholesterol, and a 2019 British Medical Journal study of 105,000 adults reported that a 10 percent increase in the consumption of processed foods corresponded to a 12 percent overall increase in cardiovascular disease.

and inflammation. A 2019 British study found that artery functions declined and CVD risk factors worsened in just two weeks when active exercisers reduced their daily steps from 10,000 to 1,000.

Inflammation

Nicotine, carbon monoxide and chemicals in cigarettes increase blood pressure and heart rate, damage the endothelium and cause blood platelets to clot more, which is why smokers are two to four times more likely to get cardiovascular disease. E-cigarettes and cigars may be worse due to higher doses of nicotine, the AHA warns.

Chronic inflammation, caused by such factors as fried and processed foods, smoking, obesity, alcohol and stress, can trigger the immune system to attack healthy tissues, including the endothelium, raising CVD risk. C-reactive protein (CRP), an inflammation marker, is measured by the hsCRP blood test. Men with higher CRP levels had three times the risk of heart attack and twice the risk of stroke, Harvard scientists have found.

Physical Inactivity

A lack of regular, ongoing physical activity has been shown to dramatically increase obesity, blood pressure, cholesterol

Smoking and Vaping

Loneliness

People need people: Harvard researchers examined 23 studies that involved 181,000 adults and found that loneliness, social isolation or both were associated with increased risks of heart attacks (29 percent) and strokes (32 percent).

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during pregnancy may head that off. Other important strategies include:

healthy kids

GOOD HEARTS START YOUNG

Boosting Kids’ Cardiovascular Health by Ronica A. O’Hara

e don’t often think of children as having cardiovascular problems, but evidence is mounting that many youngsters today—because of scant exercise, poor eating habits and excessive screen time—are on track to experiencing serious heart and circulatory problems later in life. “Instead of taking a wait-and-see approach by treating disease later in adulthood, we should help children maintain the standards of ideal cardiovascular health that most children are born with,” reports Julia Steinberger, M.D., director of pediatric cardiology at the University of Minnesota Medical School, in Minneapolis, and lead author of a 2016 scientific statement on children’s cardiovascular health from the American Heart Association (AHA). In a March 2019 update, the AHA noted that fewer than 1 percent of children meet all seven criteria, or metrics, for ideal cardiovascular health; 22

half of all children meet merely half the measures, which include physical activity, healthy eating, not smoking, attaining ideal body mass index (BMI), total cholesterol, blood pressure and glucose readings. Poor metrics in a child are linked to such adverse outcomes as heart attacks, heart failure and stroke in adulthood, advises Elaine Urbina, M.D., director of preventive cardiology at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, adding that poor metrics in teens are linked to fatty build-up in the neck arteries and arterial stiffness later in life. But starting in utero, crucial strategies can promote strong cardiovascular systems in kids. Children born to mothers with low vitamin D levels have about a 60 percent higher risk of elevated systolic blood pressure between ages 6 and 18, reports a Boston Medical Center study in the journal Hypertension; vitamin D supplementation

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be physically active at least 60 minutes a day, the AHA recommends, but among kids 6 to 11, only half of the boys and a third of the girls meet that guideline; by ages 16 to 19, merely one in 10 boys and one in 20 girls do. A review of 50 fitness studies in 28 countries involving 25 million children concluded that American kids today are about a minute and a half slower running a mile than their peers 30 years ago. “Aerobic exercises like running, swimming and cycling use the big muscles of the body and are excellent ways of stressing and strengthening the heart and lungs,” says study author Grant Tomkinson, Ph.D., professor of education, health and behavior studies at the University

Instead of taking a wait-and-see approach by treating disease later in adulthood, we should help children maintain the standards of ideal cardiovascular health that most children are born with. ~Julia Steinberger of North Dakota. Even simply walking to school in the morning for 10 minutes reduces stress in kids and curbs heart rate and blood pressure increases, a University of Buffalo study found.

Feed them well. About 91 percent

of U.S. children have what is classified as a “poor” diet that’s heavy in simple carbs like desserts and sugary drinks, the AHA reported. It recommends feeding kids a diet heavy in fruits, vegetables, fish and whole grains and low in sodium and sugary foods and drinks. A 2016 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study of 2,142 children found that nine of 10 kids exceeded recommended sodium levels. A

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Get them moving. Children should

Cleveland Clinic study found that obese children eating a low-fat, plant-based vegan diet for four weeks began lowering their risk of heart disease by improving their weight, blood pressure, BMI, cholesterol levels and insulin sensitivity.

Don’t smoke or vape. The risk

of a child developing carotid plaque in adulthood was four times higher if one or both parents smoked without taking care to limit the child’s exposure; when they did take care, the risk was still almost two times higher, according to an Australian study in the journal Circulation. Discouraging a teen from vaping is also critical to future health: New research from the University of Kansas School of Medicine shows that adults that vape are significantly more likely to have a heart attack, coronary artery disease and depression compared with those that don’t vape or use any tobacco products.

S-F/ Shutterstock.com

Restrict screen time. Australian

6-year-olds that spent the most time in front of TVs, computers and video games had narrower arteries in the back of their eyes—a marker of future cardiovascular risk— reported a study in Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular. A study from Canada’s McMaster University found that kids with video game addictions sleep less, which in turn elevates blood pressure, lowers helpful HDL cholesterol and raises triglycerides. Ronica A. O’Hara is a Denver-based health writer. Connect at OHaraRonica@gmail.com.

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Renewing Hope Regenerative Medicine Upends Traditional Prognoses

by Patricia Staino

f you think self-generation of new cells, organs and body parts is just the stuff of superhero movies, think again. Pioneering research in regenerative medicine renews hope for us all, harnessing the power of our own biological make-up to one day make us all super-beings. Regenerative medicine is an emerging branch of medicine in which therapies are applied to help cells and tissues heal, repair and regenerate themselves. Originally focused on using the body’s own

cells and functions to heal itself, research now includes growing tissues and organs for transplant in cases where that’s not possible. It is found at the crossroads of tissue engineering and molecular biology, and includes treatments such as stem cell therapy, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), medical devices and artificial organs, tissue engineering and biomaterials. While some of its trials are a long way from being available at local hospitals, many treatments—particularly those that treat

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Types of Regenerative Therapies

Many types of treatments, therapies and devices collect under the umbrella term of “regenerative medicine.” While the idea of engineering skin tissue and other bioma-

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muscle and joint complaints and resulting pain—are available from specially trained medical practitioners in the U. S. “Regenerative medicine is likely the breath of fresh air that has emerged in pain medicine,” says Rajat Sekhar, MD, interventional pain physician with Greenwich Hospital’s Center for Pain Management. The Center offers platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell injections to treat acute or chronic pain conditions related to degenerative spinal discs, joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments. “Recently, it has gained quite a bit of momentum, moving from an area of anecdotal medicine to more of an evidence-based approach. Its main premise lies in a reparative approach in which your own body potentially rebuilds/heals its own tissue versus the traditional prior approach of using steroid-based therapy aimed at decreasing inflammation.” The goal of regenerative medicine is to heal injured tissue rather than just masking the pain. While stem cells from embryos, adult tissues and reprogrammed differentiated cells are used to generate increasingly sophisticated engineered tissues, we can better understand its application on a much more granular level, in stem cell and PRP injections, particularly for bone, joint and muscle repair to end chronic pain. “Regenerative therapy that utilizes the patient’s own blood or stem cells and other biologic options can be considered as an interventional option for musculoskeletal injuries, joint pain and back pain,” says Roshni N. Patel, MD, medical director at the Center of Excellence in Pain & Regenerative Medicine in Farmington. Patel has reinvented how she treats pain, using procedures designed to provide long-term benefits and prevent surgery as well as help patients recover faster from surgery.

terials has a certain cool factor, it’s much more relevant to look at less invasive therapies currently available to patients. These include injections and biologics that stimulate cell and tissue repair and regrowth, often used to treat muscle and joint pain, but which have shown results in treating hair loss and erectile dysfunction, among other conditions. Stem Cell Therapy The Mayo Clinic website refers to stem cell therapy as the “next chapter in organ transplantation and uses cells instead of donor organs.” However, there’s more to stem cell therapy than growing organs outside the body. “Our body has more than 200 different types of cells; not all are stem cells,” says Steven Geoffrion, co-owner of Optimum Regenerative Care in Bethel. The regenerative medicine clinic uses stem cells and other therapies to treat degenerative joint conditions, back pain, arthritis, peripheral neuropathy, plantar fasciitis, anti-aging issues and whole-body wellness. “Stem cells are called the ‘master cells’ of the body because they are in charge of healing and repair. The very reason we age is because we lose stem cells as we get older.” These “master cells” can transform into different types of cells to replace dying cells and repair damaged tissue. Stem cells can be derived from umbilical cords of healthy babies and moms, as in the treatments offered at Geoffrion's clinic, but can also be derived from an individual's own bone marrow: During the stem cell procedure, bone marrow is collected from the patient, which takes just a couple of minutes. Those cells are isolated with a specialized centrifuge, then injected into the injured body part so healing and regeneration can begin. (This part of the procedure takes a couple of hours.) Patients can usually return to their daily activities after a few days, but they may have some pain at the marrow aspiration site for up to a week. “Stem cells are very intelligent, and they know where to go in the body,” says

Regenerative medicine is likely the breath of fresh air that has emerged in pain medicine. ~ Rajat Sekhar Geoffrion. “Inflammation is signaling to stem cells, so these healing cells will migrate to where inflammation exists and help the healing process.” According to Henry Sobo, MD, of Optimal Health Medical in Stamford,

stem cells are being studied worldwide for their effectiveness in treating an ever-increasing variety of medical conditions. “The conditions for which stem cell therapy may be effective include disorders such as Alzheimer’s, MS and many others, for which, at present, there are no effective medical treatments,” Sobo says. These also include COPD, Type II diabetes, Epstein Barr, heart disease, Parkinson’s and autoimmune diseases. Sobo, who employs a nutritional and holistic approach to medicine,

Natural Living Directory 2020

includes stem cell injections (as well as PRP and peptides) in his practice because he is committed to treating the cause of disease, not just the symptoms. His office participates in ongoing research studies in this field of therapy, following treatment protocols designed by an institutional review board, to help his patients augment the body’s natural repair process. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Sobo sees a big demand for platelet-rich plasma therapy—“popularized” by its use in orthopedics and sports medicine— among his patients. “PRP is produced from a person’s own blood,” he explains. “It is a concentration of the type of cell known as platelets. Platelets and the liquid plasma portion of the blood contain many factors that are essential for the cellular functions that are required for healing.” It sounds similar to stem cell injections, but bone marrow contains hundreds of growth factors that PRP cannot deliver, so stem cell injections are used for more severe degenerative conditions for which PRP may not provide sufficient growth factors. After a blood sample is obtained from a patient, the blood is put into a centrifuge, which separates the blood into its many components. Platelet-rich plasma then can be collected and delivered to the area of

“The conditions for which stem cell therapy may be effective include disorders... for which, at present, there are no effective medical treatments.” ~ Henry Sobo the body that needs treatment. This procedure concentrates the platelet count in a patient’s centrifuged blood so that when returned to the body, it contains many times the natural concentration of platelets along with the regenerative healing factors they produce. Because PRP is created directly from a patient’s own blood, neither allergic reactions nor rejection of the platelet cells can occur. This is a safe treatment that can be performed and completed in an office setting in approximately one hour from start to finish. Peptides Another treatment growing in popularity is peptides therapy, used to improve skin care, prevent heart disease and stroke, and treat immune system issues and chronic infections like Lyme disease. Peptides are chains of amino acids, which are the building blocks of the body’s proteins. Peptides are like little messengers who facilitate cell-to-cell communication, telling cells

when to turn certain functions on and off. Some peptides occur naturally in the body, while others can be created in a laboratory. When administered to a patient (in place of a hormone or drug), they enhance the body’s own natural abilities to produce hormones or other healing proteins. Peptides are used to produce a specific reaction in the body, so an injection could be intended to assist with weight loss by stimulating the breakdown of fat, while others are meant to reduce inflammation. Some peptides stimulate production of human growth hormone for anti-aging therapies or to build muscle mass. According to Sobo, some of the most important peptide treatments currently are approved by the FDA-equivalents in Australia, many European countries and other governments around the world. “The human body possesses over 250,000 peptides, and we are only beginning to classify and understand them, to harness their power in the practice of medicine,” he says. He notes that in other countries, peptides have shown promise in treating sleep disorders, libido issues, fibromyalgia, cancer and aging. Exosomes Similar to peptides are exosomes, which also help cells communicate. Sekhar finds the research around these little messengers exciting and hopes there will be an

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FDA announcement in the coming year regarding approved biologics for patient treatment. “Exosomes are cell-derived vesicles containing what is believed to be the regenerative components released from mesenchymal stem cells, yet they are acellular,” he says. “They provide transmitting and honing device functions between cells when the body initiates the healing process. They have been attributed to the spread of cytokines, proteins, hyaluronic acid and growth factors. Exosomes have the potential to treat a wide variety of conditions.” Research has shown that when an older organism is exposed to a younger organism, the exosomes from the young stem cells appear to rejuvenate the older cells. By introducing exosome injections, the external exosomes could support stem cell functions by providing additional information that can spur the healing process. Geoffrion offers exosome therapy to his patients to promote overall well-being, as the FDA prohibits practitioners from promising to cure specific ailments through the treatment: “We now offer exosome therapy because many consider it to be the next generation of stem cells,” he says. “Exosomes are much smaller than stem cells and will allow us to better treat the body for anti-aging and whole-body wellness and healing.” He notes that some research has shown exosomes to be effective in reversing symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, MS, lupus, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, Lyme disease, fibromyalgia, heart disease, diabetes and more.

What to Expect

As with any medical treatment, doctors and patients may vary as to when a therapy should be deemed “successful.” Sekhar warns that patients need to temper their expectations, and be patient as they wait to see results, particularly when the condition for which they are seeking relief is causing pain. “Managing patient expectations is important because the onset of healing can take months, and patient pathologies

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can vary amongst patients, hence restoration of damaged tissue from autologous/allogenic tissue will differ from one patient to the next,” says Sekhar. “There is quite a bit of variation in clinical practice amongst pain physicians. It is important to ensure FDA-approved guidelines are adhered to and that patient expectations are accurately managed.” Additionally, Patel stresses patients should research their doctors and the procedures thoroughly, while Sobo suggests they ask friends and family for recommendations, which are often the most reliable and accurate picture of what to expect. If you do a little digging, you can find reliable information that can educate you further, from organizations like Pew Research, the Mayo Clinic, and, yes, even the FDA (which issued a report in November 2017 to clarify the distinctions between products that are subject to the agency’s full drug approval requirements and those that are not; and to streamline the review process for new therapies and reduce some of the regulatory requirements on product developers). “I am hoping for primary care providers to become more aware of therapies, so they can accurately guide their patients in seeking out the right medical professional for these treatments,” says Patel. “Patients must be well-informed on the limitations of regenerative medicine and not be gullible. While advances are being made in the field of regenerative medicine, we all have to be patient when it comes to the right treatment and approach for a given medical condition.”

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Patricia Staino is a freelance writer and the managing editor of Natural Awakenings’ Hartford and Fairfield County editions. She can be reached at PatriciaStaino@gmail.com.

Local Resources: Center of Excellence in Pain & Regenerative Medicine

Roshni N. Patel, MD 55 South Rd, Ste 120, Farmington 860-397-6179 • RoshniNPatelMD.com

Greenwich Hospital Center for Pain Management 5 Perryridge Rd, Greenwich 203-863-3579 GreenwichHospital.org/services/pain-management

Optimal Health Medical Henry Sobo, MD 111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-348-8805 • DrSobo.com

Optimum Regenerative Care 203.438.5795 • RIDGEFIELDPLAYHOUSE.ORG 28

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2 Stony Hill Rd, Ste 208, Bethel 203-917-4474 • OptimumRegenerativeCare.com

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Galaxy love design/Shutterstock.com

Why Choose Regenerative Therapies?

by Patricia Staino

ost regenerative therapies are considered experimental, and most insurance plans don’t cover them. They can be pricey, and for all of these reasons, patients should thoroughly research these therapies and consult with a qualified medical professional before deciding if the treatments are right for them. Why would a patient choose a stem cell or PRP injection? Those who do often are suffering from chronic pain due to degenerative conditions that have baffled their doctors for years.

Many have few options left, and often it is a choice between an invasive surgery or trying the injections. “Studies have shown that steroid injections or opioids, which are conventional therapies that promote pain relief, are detrimental in the long run, whereas surgical intervention often means a longer recovery period, pain and opioids,” says Roshni N. Patel, MD, medical director at the Center of Excellence in Pain & Regenerative Medicine in Farmington. “Regenerative therapy offers less invasive procedures and shorter recoveries. It is a less risky treatment option that can help patients avoid invasive, risky and expensive surgeries.” According to Greenwich Hospital’s website, the benefits of PRP and stem cell injections include a same-day procedure as opposed to a lengthy hospital stay, and often the treatments reduce the necessity for major surgery down the line because they treat injured tissues before the damage progresses further. Additionally, regenerative therapy has been proven to accelerate healing for osteoarthritis, ligament injuries, rotator cuff tears, tennis and golfer’s elbow, tendonitis and plantar fasciitis. Many patients see improvement in pain levels and mobility within four to six weeks after treatment, and they may continue to see improvement for up to 12 months. Patricia Staino is a freelance writer and the managing editor of Natural Awakenings’ Hartford and Fairfield County editions. She can be reached at PatriciaStaino@gmail.com.

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Natural Living Directory 2020

wise words

A Doctor’s Advice to Patients about Regenerative Medicine

oshni N. Patel, MD, is an interventional pain management physician who is quadruple-board-certified in the areas of pain, headache, neurology and brain injury. Currently the medical director of the Center of Excellence in Pain & Regenerative Medicine in Farmington, she has been treating patients for 15 years and offers regenerative medicine procedures to patients seeking pain relief and improved quality of life. We asked her to share her thoughts on the regenerative medicine questions that are top of mind for our readers.

What are the most exciting developments in the regenerative medicine field right now? The most exciting recent developments in the field certainly include the advances in research both conducted and pub30

lished. Also, while still slow-moving, we’re seeing a bit of momentum gained in the increase in insurance companies’ willingness to pay for these procedures; they’ve begun to realize that the patients and their own coffers stand to benefit in the long run by avoiding expensive medical procedures down the line. For example, Alabama is now paying for its state employees to undergo these therapies. I am hoping primary care providers become more aware of these therapies, so they can accurately guide their patients in seeking out the right medical professional for these treatments. Patients should be well-informed on the possibilities and limitations of regenerative medicine. The other exciting recent development has been the momentum and gains we’re seeing in the field of iPSC, or induced pluripotent stem cells, which can

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How do you address the common misconceptions patients and the public have about regenerative medicine? When it comes to misconceptions by the public at large, primarily they think all regenerative medicine is a stem cell procedure, which just isn’t true. Most of them don’t know about other options, like PRP, and that these procedures are available in reputable facilities within the U.S. They also think the therapies will cost tens of thousands of dollars. One of the most common misconceptions about regenerative medicine by patients is that they see it as a cure. Rather, it is a therapy that can improve their quality of life, and that is what practitioners should aim for with every patient that walks into their practice. There are still other factors to consider. For example, patients with healthy lifestyles have better outcomes compared to patients with unhealthy lifestyles.

RoshniNPatelMD.com

JUST THE FACTS

be engineered to treat a myriad of conditions affecting degeneration. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is taking a lead in researching and conducting the trials on it. The therapy involves taking a patient’s blood cells and, in a lab, converting them into iPS cells, which have the potential to form any type of cell in the body. This study goes back to the basics of using the patient’s own blood cells to treat degeneration without the use of external biologics. iPSC, once perfected, will be able to change how we treat patients. I’m also following the use of regenerative medicine for neurological conditions, as researchers are still in the early stages of developing therapies for Multiple Sclerosis, ALS, Parkinson’s, traumatic brain injury, dementia and Alzheimer’s. The therapeutic potential of cell-based treatment for several neurological disorders cannot be understated, as many of them currently result in either permanent neurological damage or are incurable. Regenerative medicine may offer an alternative approach to supportive care.

Patients often think that stem cells or other biological products provide better outcomes versus their own blood cells because such treatment is more expensive compared to a PRP procedure, and that’s just not the case. We only approach second-level use of bone marrow if PRP has failed. Also, patients wonder why they would choose regenerative medicine over surgery since the latter is covered by insurance and regenerative procedures most likely are not. They need to consider the downside of surgery and total joint replacements, including recovery time, pain and the risks of surgery. The most dangerous misconception, however, is that it is a miracle cure for everything that ails them. This thinking has led to unscrupulous practitioners taking advantage of desperate patients seeking a miracle. The best thing to do is seek proper medical advice from a trusted professional.

What criteria should a patient use in choosing a health care professional in the regenerative medicine field? When it comes to regenerative medicine, a practitioner’s technique, education, equipment and skill set all matter. Most importantly, practitioners should follow clinical studies on PRP, non-autologous biologics, bone marrow, adipose and many others, and monitor ASIPP and FDA guidelines to ensure they are offering safe regenerative medicine treatment options when it comes to regenerative medicine. When searching for a regenerative medicine practitioner, be sure the therapies they offer are in line with their area of specialty. What is the physician’s background and training? For example, I largely focus on pain- and neurology-related conditions so I can offer optimal outcomes. Is a proper work-up being done to identify the root cause of the symptom? And if they suggest a regenerative medicine-based treatment, ask for clinical studies that back up their reason for suggesting it.

Ask what kind of biologics will be used. PRP and BMAC are allowed for autologous use. Adipose is not allowed. If non-autologous biologics are suggested, find out how they are sourced and, if it is donor-derived, has the provider performed due diligence? Patients should understand that non-autologous biologics marketed as “stem cells” actually contain zero stem cells. They do, however, contain growth factors and cytokines, which are used to signal patients’ own stem cells to repair and regenerate. Find out what kind of equipment is being used to process PRP or BMAC. Not all centrifuges are created equal: A lab centrifuge is not ideal for achieving the correct concentration of platelets needed in PRP to ensure efficacy. Will the injection be done under image guidance? Look for a practitioner who uses fluoroscopy or ultrasound to inject PRP. When it is done blindly, it is not as effective as when it’s done under image guidance, which ensures accurate needle placement. If the clinic charges an exorbitant amount, seek additional medical advice. The average cost of a single PRP injection is around $1,500 at a reputable practice; BMAC and other biologics are between $3,000 and $5,000. On the other hand, be wary if the cost is far less, as it’s possible they do not use the right equipment, which could compromise the patient’s safety. One final thought: One of the major concerns in the field of regenerative medicine is that it has become the wild, wild west, which has put a damper on what regenerative medicine can do for patients. For the best experience with regenerative medicine, the patient must be as responsible as the physician in terms of being educated and informed. Roshni N. Patel, MD, is medical director of the Center of Excellence in Pain & Regenerative Medicine in Farmington. She can be reached at 860-397-6179 or PainRegenMD.com.

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares, MA, CYT @HummingbirdSoundYoga • BSoares@LightOfTheNewMoon.com New Milford Location: 860-946-9470

Natural Living Directory 2020

Master 0s in 2020 Original paintings by Greer Jonas

The master zero (0) is the magical energy of potential—that which has never happened before. It is “conception” before it is fully realized—the vision of an idea or intention of something we want in our lives without its limitations. We are in the womb, anxiously waiting to be birthed. How will you move ahead in your life with the new energy of intention and connection in all your relationships? How can you reach past the “I” of the ego—the “I can’t,” the “I must,” and the “I have to control”? Instead, envision what you really want, not how. See your vision happening and let go of imagining its form. But you have to be present in your life before anything can shift in the areas of relationships and potential.

The Global 2020 Year

Bring Master Change!

by Greer Jonas

elcome to the third decade of the 21st century. What is the 2020 numerology effect on our lives? Never again in our lifetime will there be two 2s and two zeros in our year. According to numerology, when two numbers are the same, they are considered master numbers because they have double the power of the number. In mastery, the energy will have a pivotal effect of change in our lives and in the world. In what way will our outlook and actions change?

The Decade of the One

First, let’s step back. For 10 years we were in the decade of the “1.” One is all about the ego, leadership and action. It is the yang energy of pushing forward your ideas. This was the time on our earth when we were asked to expand our beliefs and take the lead. We can witness, in our current politics, much ego being thrown around. Many belief systems have emerged to produce change. It seems as if the belief systems during this decade have been taking turns with what is right and what is wrong.

Master 2s in 2020

Now we move into the master 2s. The two is the yin—intuitive connections and sensitivity with a view of fairness. This is the Divine Feminine, an outlook far different from living inside of self. The two, in comparison, seeks relationship and duality. Two sides to every argument, we have the opportunity to look at the bigger picture. We have the choice of reaching past the “I” into the “we.” 32

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

“We” Rather Than “I”

Is it possible to create this change? Perhaps we can begin in our own lives and relationships as we mutually support and inspire each other. Rather than focusing on the desire to be right, the new decade can be about the aspiration of letting go and reaching out together towards change. Get involved in a group that inspires you; it could be about social change or environmental. Be the difference in this world.

Manifest Your Dreams

What a great time to manifest your dreams—to create with your intuition rather than old ways of doing things. And remember, it is always okay to ask for support! Now this is the way to bring in 2020! Greer Jonas is an intuitive numerologist and artist living in NYC. She conducts numerology readings via Zoom, phone and in person. Visit her numerology website at Numerology4YourSoul.com and her art website at GreerJonas.com. To schedule a reading, request a class schedule or find out more about your personal year in 2020, contact her at GreerDJonas@gmail.com.

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Original paintings by Greer Jonas

2020 A New Decade Will

The digits of the year 2020 add up to four (2+0+2+0=4). So along with having two master numbers, we also have the value of the four, which is all about the builder, the grounding earth, the ability to create form. Thus, the potential for our world to turn around and build once again, instead of destroying, is possible. We need to be proactive, of course, while speaking in an intelligent and thoughtful manner so that we are heard and not turned off because we are yelling at each other. We must also be willing to listen. With a mutual understanding we can shift into a more grounded world that works together and makes a difference.

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This went on for two years, as they fell in and out of relationships with others. They finally changed from co-workers and friends to partners after a particularly intense backpacking trip that they led together. The emotions ran high with this group of 25 New Yorkers over nine nights in Utah, but Jessica persevered and Dave was impressed. Rather than fly home alone, Jessica accepted Dave’s invitation to drive back to New York with him. After a particularly rough stretch of driving, they decided to camp in a wooded area in Tennessee. That’s when Jessica really saw David’s passion for nature. It still makes her melt. “Here’s this rugged guy who turns to mush when he sees a waterfall or hikes through an old-growth forest. And we get into the woods and he starts screaming, ‘Ferns! Ferns! Oh, how I missed you ferns!’” A year later they married in a private ceremony in an old-growth forest miles from civilization. They held their reception on a mountaintop in the Catskills.

David and Jessica

THE TRAILS LEAD TO LOVE by Roger Dubin

his is the story of two couples whose love has a special connection to the trails and nature. One couple was married on a mountaintop in Harriman Bear Mountain State Park, the other deep in the Catskills amidst 300-year-old birch trees and 400-yearold spruce. Coincidentally, they both got engaged in canoes.

Love Survives David and Jessica met in early 2014, when Jessica scored a Groupon for a survival program run by David’s company, Destination Back Country Adventures. David taught the class. 34

David immediately felt an attraction to Jessica but quickly suppressed it. Then approaching 40, he had vowed that he would only get serious with someone if the relationship could lead to permanence and marriage. He didn’t think that possible with a 23-year-old. Jessica was attracted to Dave’s outdoorsy nature and adventurous lifestyle, but she also saw the age difference as a problem. The survival class was followed by day hikes and backpacking. Jessica fell in love with the woods and eventually became a guide at Destination Back Country. She and David enjoyed each other’s company but avoided getting romantically involved.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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The Long Path Daniel and Ayla grew up together. His dad was Ed Bieber, founder of the Nature Place Day Camp, now in its 35th year. Her dad was Scott Dunn, the camp’s program director for 30 years. Daniel and Ayla shared the sense of wonder that comes from constant exposure to the outdoors. They began dating 10 years ago and married in 2015. Asked about the importance of hiking and nature to their relationship, Daniel says, “Consider where

Daniel & Ayla

we had our wedding. We were looking for a special place in nature to get married, and Dad suggested the site of the Raymond Torrey memorial on top of Long Mountain, where the Long Path crosses. What a metaphor that is for marriage and life! We started the journey of life together on the Long Path, which was conceived in 1931 and extends over 350 miles, from New York City to Thacher State Park in Albany County.” The wedding took place on a blustery October day that started off mild and quickly turned cold. The rain blew horizontally at times, and the mile-long trail up the mountain was so slippery that guides were strategically located to keep the 100plus guests from falling. “Overcoming the challenges and weather to get to the top made the ceremony that much more meaningful,” Ayla says. “We’ll never forget that day and the start of our lives together as husband and wife on that mountaintop.” Some trails lead into the woods. Others, to love. Happy trails! Roger Dubin is marketing director for Natural Awakenings, volunteer trail supervisor for the New York-New Jersey Trail conference (NYNJTC.org) and day hike leader and naturist for the Nature Place Day Camp. Contact him at MrNaturalNYC@gmail or on Instagram @MrNaturalNYC.

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VITAL STEPS The Path to Vascular Fitness by Marlaina Donato

t is well-known that exercise combats cardiovascular disease by balancing blood pressure and managing blood sugar, but aerobic exercise, not resistance training, takes the prize for keeping the body’s thousands of miles of blood vessels more supple. A 2017 study published in the journal Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise shows that allextremity exercise like brisk walking improves arterial flexibility in older individuals; even those with a sedentary history. Moving the body regularly also lowers stress hormones like cortisol that can ignite damaging vascular inflammation. A West Virginia University study presented at the 2016 Experimental Biology meeting in San Diego showed that aerobic exercise fosters healthy blood vessels in rats exposed to chronic stress. Combining aerobic exercise with good diet and paying attention to triglyceride levels all help to keep us young from the inside-out.

Step It Up

According to a 2015 study by the University of Missouri School of Medicine published in Experimental Physiology, walking just 10 minutes after prolonged sitting can restore blood flow in the legs and improve impaired vascular function. Results like these are another reason to get up and move. Walking, running, swimming, cycling, jumping rope and playing tennis are all 36

excellent options. “For blood vessel flexibility, any sort of sustained aerobic exercise helps. Find something you enjoy so that you’ll keep doing it in the long term,” says Alex Hutchinson, New York Times bestselling author of Which Comes First, Cardio or Weights? Fitness Myths, Training Truths, and Other Surprising Discoveries from the Science of Exercise. The Toronto-based, Outside magazine science columnist underscores that treadmills and walking outside foster equal benefits by increasing the heart rate. The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes per week of moderate aerobic exercise. Dr. Regina Druz, a board-certified cardiologist and medical director of the Integrative Cardiology Center of Long Island, explains, “This translates into 30 minutes a day, five times a week. A specific exercise program may be helpful for those with a medical condition, but for overall vascular health, any physical activity like walking or taking the stairs will do.” Druz also highlights the role of nitric oxide: “One of the most studied mediators of vascular health is [nitric oxide], which makes arteries flexible.” Research findings published in 2018 in the journal Hypertension spotlight the correlation between the number of daily steps and arterial plasticity through a technique called pulse wave velocity, which measures how fast blood travels from the heart to the feet. The evidence suggests that 1,000 extra steps a day foster significant vascular improvement.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Judy Heller, a walking coach and founder of Wonders of Walking, a fitness program in Portland, Oregon, concurs: “Moving throughout the day, not just once a day, is most important.” Heller is a firm believer in consistency. “My aunt lived to 107 and remained in her three-story house. Her words to me were, ‘Judy, don’t ever stop walking.’ Small changes yield greater rewards over time. We’re meant to move.”

Superfoods and Supplements

Nitric oxide, responsible for the dilation and contraction of blood vessels, is produced by exercising and helps to protect the smooth interior lining of the arteries from excessive plaque accumulation. Adding nitric oxide-boosting foods to an already healthy diet can give us an extra edge over vascular conditions like stroke and peripheral artery disease. “Beets, arugula, spinach and rhubarb are all good sources of dietary nitrate. They’re not miracle supplements, but if you make these foods a regular part of your diet, you’ll have a positive effect on your arteries,” says Hutchinson. Research by Florida State University published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics reveals that a one-cup daily serving of blueberries helps to protect the arteries from stiffness. Watermelon, rich in the nonessential amino acid L-citrulline, also packs a nitric oxide punch. Full-spectrum vitamin E is another good option, especially for addressing peripheral artery disease and reducing serum triglyceride levels that are often seen as secondary to “bad” cholesterol levels, but which low levels are vital to cardiovascular health. Druz cautions against using supplements as substitutes for healthy nutrition and exercise, and underscores the importance of dialing down stress, “I advise my patients to build stress resiliency, which involves recognizing and practicing stress response. This, along with nutrition and consistent exercise, will lower inflammation and help build stress resiliency.” Marlaina Donato is an author and composer. Connect at AutumnEmbersMusic.com.

brisk walk /Shutterstock.com

fit body

The New York-New Jersey Trail Conference is celebrating its 100th Anniversary! Now more than ever, the Trail Conference needs your support.

In the early 1900s, there were people who understood there must be an escape from the hustle and bustle of the urban concrete jungle. They worked together to preserve the land, build the trails, and blaze and map them, so future generations would have a place to go in nature to breathe, explore, and thrive. They formed the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference in 1920 to protect the land we all love. With your support, you can ensure the continued care for your favorite parks and trailsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;today, for the next 100 years, and beyond.

Go to NYNJTC.org for information about donating, membership, and volunteering. Bonus! An anonymous couple who love each other and love trails will match your donations to the Trail Conference dollar for dollar through the end of February. Simply mention Natural Awakenings magazine in the comments of your donation submitted online at NYNJTC.org or mailed to Trail Conference Headquarters located at 600 Ramapo Valley Road, Mahwah, NJ 07430. Natural Living Directory 2020

CHOOSING LOVE How to Cope With Fearful Times by Scarlett Lewis

t’s hard to make sense of some of the troubling things we see on TV and read about in the news. Our kids ask us, “Why are these things happening?” It’s an important question and it all comes down to two competing feelings: fear versus love. When we see disturbing images such as school shootings or political opponents attacking one another, it cultivates anx-

iety, which is an epidemic in our society. When left untreated, it can lead to negative outcomes including substance abuse, depression, suicide and violence. Often, we look to those in perceived power to solve these issues. Perhaps what we haven’t considered is that these are not political issues; rather, they are issues of the heart and only we can solve them.

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Promoting Self-Regulation and Bio-Emotional Health 38

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So we continue to see pain and suffering played out before us. We feel powerless and this feeds our unease. Our personal safety is a priority and external safety measures sometimes fail. If we don’t feel safe, nothing else matters. There is a solution. The opposite of anxiety and fear is love. When we examine the trajectory of most societal ills, there is often an arc of loneliness, depression, isolation and often abuse. From a young age, we can learn to choose love as a thoughtful response to any situation. When we do this, we take back our personal power. We become part of the solution to the issues we see, and science tells us that others will do the same. There is a formula for choosing love. It starts with courage. My son Jesse was a 6-year-old boy who stood up to the shooter that came into his first-grade classroom at Sandy Hook Elementary School and saved nine of his classmates’ lives before losing his own. We all have that courage within us: the courage to be kind, to speak our truth, to do the right thing. We can only have one thought at a time, so we can shift our thinking by replacing a negative thought with a grateful one. Forgiving helps us to take back our personal power and is a gift we give ourselves. It is the foundation of healthy relationships that lead to greater happiness and connection in our lives. Compassion in action helps us step outside our own busyness, distraction and even pain to help others. When we do this, we’re choosing love and helping to create a safer, more peaceful and loving world. When we model the practice of these character values as a thoughtful response for our children, they grow up to do the same. Scarlett Lewis is the founder of the Jesse Lewis Choose Love Movement, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to ensure every child has access to social and emotional education and support. Connect with her at Info@JesseLewisChooseLove.org.

Scarlett Lewis and pirtuss/Shutterstock.com

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203 TLC

203 TLC is a community of accredited health and wellness providers offering a wide variety of services and products. Founded in 1997 by Beth Leas, the TLC Tribe is Fairfield County’s largest holistic health resource - a vibrant and growing community of over 90 Members, committed to living consciously and offering healthy lifestyle opportunities. We offer high quality private sessions, products, workshops, classes and resources designed to help you live life well. Energy Healing/Meditation/Tarot Beth Leas 25+ Years Experience Private Sessions, Workshops, Events In-person or by phone bethleas.com 203-856-9566

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Get to know us at TLC’s monthly networking breakfast! Looking for a relaxed group of professionals offering a supportive community, free networking events, many affordable marketing opportunities, and FUN? We meet on the first Tuesday of every month, at Valencia Luncheria, 164 Main St, Norwalk, CT, from 8:30 -10:00am. Come the first time as Beth's guest - and if you find your time with us worthwhile, we invite you to become a TLC Member. Please RSVP to Beth Leas at: 203-856-9566 (call/text) orTLCBethLeas@gmail.com so she can reserve your place.

Natural Living Directory 2020

NATURAL LIVING

DIRECTORY 2020 This year we are pleased to once again offer the region a reference guide featuring a wealth of content as well as showcasing the offerings of many businesses and practitioners waiting to help our readers achieve their personal goals in 2020. This year’s Natural Living Directory includes profiles and listings of local wellness businesses as well as a Natural Living Glossary to help readers learn more about terminology which may be new. We hope the people and products in these pages—and in later issues during the year—support your efforts to live a happier, healthier life in 2020!

NATURAL LIVING DIRECTORY 2020 INDEX Wellness Profiles 41-57

Directory Listings 58-70

Glossary of Terms 59-68

PROFILES Page 41 • Academy for Soul Healing • Danna Anderson, LPC

Page 50 • Samantha Parker, BS • Roseann Capanna-Hodge & Associates

Page 42 • Corsello Clinic of Chiropractic • Embody the Sacred/Deana Paqua

Page 51 • Saltana Cave Himalayan Salt Spa • Salt Cave of Darien

Page 43 • End of Life Doulas and Educators • Exhale Meditation & Yoga Studio

Page 52 • Nancy Scherlong, LCSW • Victoria Shaw, PhD

Page 44 • Eyecare Associates, PC • Hilda Demirjian Laser and Skin Care Center

Page 53 • SOPHIA Natural Health Center • Soul Healing Journey, LLC

Page 45 • Hummingbird Sound Yoga • The Institute of Sustainable Nutrition Page 46 • Beth Leas • Wayne Leiss Page 47 • Lyme Connection • Mind-Body Transformation Hypnosis Center Page 48 • Nadia Noori, ND /Shalva Clinic • Osteopathic Wellness Center Page 49 • OsteoStrong • Our Collective Transformation/ Laura Alvarez 40

Page 54 • Transformation Center CT • Valley Spirit Wellness Cooperative Page 55 • The Office of Michael Wald • Wellness Institute/Marvin Schweitzer, ND Page 56 • Westport Therapeutic LLC/ Betsy Benham Fruda • Whole-Body Dentistry at the Breiner Whole-Body Health Center Page 57 • Whole-Body Medicine, LLC at the Breiner Whole-Body Health Center • Wolf Spirit Wellness and Counseling Center, LLC

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

LISTINGS Page 58 13th Octave/LaHoChi • Acupuncture Ascension • Astrology • Ayurveda Page 59 Ayurvedic Medicine • Biofeedback Breast Thermography Page 60 Center • Chiropractic Page 61 Coaching • Colonics Craniosacral Therapy Craniosacral Therapy/Alexander Technique Cranial Structural • Dental Hygiene Education Page 62 Energy Healing • Essential Oils Feng Shui • Gravity Bodywork Page 63 Green Houses For Sale Healing Acid Reflux Healthy Eating • Hiking Holistic Dentist • Holistic Health Holistic Psychiatry • Hypnosis Integrated Energy Therapy (IET) Page 64 Integrative Medicine Physician Integrative Natural Medicine Page 65 Integrative Optometry Intuitive Arts • Intuitive Consultant IV Therapy • Laser Skin Care Lyme & Co-Infections • Lyme Disease Lyme Disease Education & Support Massage And Bodywork • Medical Doctor Page 66 Medical Qigong • Meditation Metabolic Optimization Metaphysical Store Naturopathic Medicine Page 67 Naturopathic Physician • Neurofeedback Non-Denominational Ceremonies Osteopathic Physician Page 68 Psychotherapy Page 69 Psychotherapy • Reiki Shamanic Practitioner The Shungite Room • Sound Healing Sound Healing & Reiki • Tai Chi/Qigong Page 70 Therapeutic Massage Transformative Healing Wellness Center • Yoga

BUILD YOUR WELLNESS DREAM TEAM These practitioners and businesses are ready to help you achieve your health and wellness goals in 2020.

Academy for Soul Healing Eilis Philpott Fairfield • 203-767-5954 Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com AcademyForSoulHealing.com

Summary/services offered: I am a master healer and teacher, certified in numerous modalities as both a practitioner and teacher. I am the owner and founder of the Academy for Soul Healing, which offers trainings in soul-level healing modalities. What drew you to this profession? I knew part of my purpose and mission was to spread love throughout humanity and to teach others how to do it too. To fulfill the mission, I founded the Academy for Soul Healing to share the information and techniques that I have learned from this lifetime and many others. How does your work differ from others in your profession? I see my work in the Academy for Soul Healing as the integration of many modalities in their purest form being used to support the growth and expansion of humanity, individually and on a global scale. What should someone expect from working with you? I am loving and nurturing. Over the years I have learned how to nurture myself and share that skill with my clients. Fundamentally, we all want to feel loved and many of us have not experienced that unconditional love in our lives. Every class, training and modality I teach is based in love and learning a true acceptance of who we are and where we are in that moment in time. What changes do you plan in 2020? 2019 saw the introduction of A Year of Healing; students are taking their personal, professional and spiritual journey to new heights. This program will keep growing and developing. I have been traveling more extensively, training practitioners in the next level of healing, the 13th Octave LaHoChi. Many of my students are now stepping forward on a larger scale. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? The techniques and processes that students learn in my classes are only the surface layer of what is going on in those trainings. Some students want to be practitioners and learn the “how-tos” while others just want to work on clearing whatever is getting in the way of living their truth. Many layers below the surface will be happening for each person. See ad, page 82.

Danna Anderson, LPC

Licensed Professional Counselor 713-562-7852 • Danna@DannaAnderson.com DannaAnderson.com Summary/services offered: I practice integrative and holistic psychotherapy, blending traditional clinical practices with energetic, somatic and ancestral work as well as mindfulness practices. Additionally, I am a Yoga Alliance-registered yoga teacher and a Reiki master teacher. I see people who may be going through a difficult time in life, who want to make significant changes or who may be going through life transitions, as well as people with anxiety and depression. I also work with people in various levels of recovery and family members of people in recovery. What drew you to the profession? When I was 13, I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. At the time, and throughout my middle school years, I was extremely sick. My mother took me to see a functional medicine doctor and I slowly healed through nutrition, exploring different healing methods and deep self-care. I continue to explore the many ways I can heal myself and feel it is my life calling to share this work with others. How does your work differ from others in the profession? I will never ask something of my clients that I have not experienced myself. Together we look at the root causes of what may be getting in the way of health and well-being. I use my clinical background and pair it with intuition and insight, so my clients can learn how to trust in themselves. There is deep connection and presence in the work we do together. What should someone expect from working with you? I take a proactive approach and listen deeply to help people create more flow in their lives, so they can reach their full potential. I incorporate yoga, breath practices and energy work when needed into my sessions with clients. What changes do you plan for 2020? I am currently training in family constellations. It is some of the most profound work I have ever done on a personal level. I plan on teaching family constellation workshops and continuing to train and learn. What is most important for Natural Awakenings readers to know? I am passionate about the work I do, and I love my clients! Healing takes great courage—it is not for the faint of heart. I would be honored to help you on your journey. See ad, page 17. Natural Living Directory 2020

Corsello Clinic of Chiropractic Edward C. Corsello, DC, BCAO 2021 Main St, Stratford 203-381-1800 • Contact@CorselloClinic.com CorselloClinic.com

Embody the Sacred

Deana Paqua, MA, LMT Ridgefield and New Milford 203-994-5045 Deana.Paqua@gmail.com • EmbodyTheSacred.net

Summary/services offered: Our mission is to build healthy families for a lifetime of wellness in a loving and compassionate setting. We offer specialized techniques, including Atlas Orthogonal (AO), EPIC, functional neurology, spinal decompression and scoliosis correction, as well as nutrition, cellular detoxification and weight loss.

Summary/services offered: Classes, training and certification programs in cross-cultural energy medicine and contemporary shamanism for Reiki and holistic practitioners including Andean mysticism, core shamanism, Usui and Karuna Reiki, Integrative Energy Therapy and more. Additional services include healing sessions, mentoring, intuitive readings and space clearings.

What drew you to this profession? I was first drawn to chiropractic while searching for answers for my own health. I suffered with ulcerative colitis for many years before learning that through the AO correction in conjunction with spinal correction and nutrition, I could become symptom-free without drugs or surgery. Now I use these powerful techniques to provide permanent relief to patients suffering with neck and back pain, headaches, and many chronic health conditions.

What first drew you to this profession? I was first led to the field of holistic health from my own experiences of healing from major and minor health challenges, including a near-fatal car accident. I have found that a spiritually based, holistic and integrative approach provides maximum benefits for many health challenges including helping resolve trauma from the spiritual perspective. I felt naturally drawn to Reiki, bodywork, other forms of energy medicine and shamanic healing that offer possibilities of deep healing and self-empowerment.

How does your work differ from others in your profession? I am a board-certified AO doctor trained in advanced spinal correction and functional neurology. I am one of only two AO doctors in the state of Connecticut. What should someone expect from working with you? At your initial consultation, you will receive a comprehensive examination using computerized technology that can detect the hidden causes of your health problem and, if medically necessary, advanced biostructural digital X-rays. Treatment consists of specific, gentle techniques to remove nerve pressure.

What sets your work apart from others in your profession? I am a certified Usui and Karuna Reiki master teacher, Integrated Energy Therapy master instructor, licensed massage therapist and ordained minister. I have a master’s degree in integrative health studies, am an adjunct professor at Western Connecticut State University in Danbury and an advisory board member of the Institute of Holistic Health Studies. I’ve also participated in shamanic training with contemporary and indigenous shamans for over 15 years and been a healing arts practitioner for over 20 years.

What changes do you plan in 2020? We are excited to welcome Dr. Christopher Loy to our practice, who is a pending diplomate in cervico-cranio junction procedures. We also offer the SprintSet energizing weight loss and detoxification system, which is helping patients to achieve amazing results, including getting off of insulin and high blood pressure medications, through customized nutrition, expert health coaching and lifetime maintenance.

What should a client expect from working with you? My sessions and classes are personalized, practical, down-to-earth, spiritually based and educational. They are designed to empower and support each individual’s spiritual path and healing journey.

What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? Call us and mention Natural Awakenings to receive a discounted consultation with X-rays (usually $150 but $45 with this profile). We take health insurance and are currently accepting new patients. See ad, page 3.

What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? My approach is focused on supporting students, clients and colleagues in self-healing and self-empowerment through connecting with their own spirituality and connection to nature, in a grounded, safe and professional environment. See ad, page 26.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

What changes do you plan in 2020? In addition to new class offerings, I am planning to support clients and students through increased mentoring and writing.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

End of Life Doulas and Educators

Barbara Slaine and Sue Broudy 203-912-2791 • Barbara Slaine 203-856-9891 • Sue Broudy LipheBalance@gmail.com • SueBroudy@gmail.com ConsciousDyingMatters.org Summary/services offered: End of Life Doulas Barbara and Sue energetically hold space and provide support at this most sacred time of transition, without judgment or intention for the outcome. End-of-life doulas bring training and knowledge to the family during transition and provide bedside services as guided and needed. We offer regular trainings, talks and workshops to help all better understand death and dying. What drew you to this profession? The understanding through training and experience that death and dying is not taboo, it’s just another part of life. Both Reiki masters, Barbara and Sue are in service to many individuals, but serving as doulas is a complete honor. To be with someone during this time is sacred, with such an opening for the soul’s journey. What sets your work apart from others in your profession? There aren’t huge crowds in our profession, but we are hoping to change that with educational talks, workshops, trainings and meeting with people who are yearning to help in some way. The elder population is growing; we all know someone who might be facing this time. What should someone expect from working with you? We are available for consultations at any time to assess the needs of the individual or family. We are hospice-trained, but are not in service medically. We bring many energetic and counseling tools to instill peace in any situation. We also address legacy or remembrance work, or vigil planning logistics. We offer music services, during and after, and grief processing, all as needed. We honor all faiths and traditions.

Exhale Meditation and Yoga Studio 391 Bridgeport Ave, Ste 104, Shelton 203-712-0802 ExhaleUSA.com Summary/services offered: Experience the scientifically proven physical and mental well-being benefits of daily meditation, yoga, sound healing, breathwork and more in a tranquil, secular, non-judgmental space. What drew you to this profession? A chance encounter with meditation changed me. I founded Exhale to help others experience its transformative benefits, learn to live in the present moment and breathe. What sets your work apart from others in your profession? We make these transformative and healing practices accessible every day to everyone, regardless of experience, age, level of physical fitness, injuries or other self-imposed barriers. What should someone expect from working with you? We offer access to a wide range of classes and workshops, a team of experienced, caring teachers and the chance to get in touch with what really matters. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know?  Research proves that meditation can change your brain. With it, clarity, calm and ease can be yours. Drop in for a class, exhale and let go…

What changes do you plan in 2020? Barbara and Sue know life is lived more fully by embracing death, in ways that are quite natural and heart opening. We want to continue to help educate more people about death and dying with experiential classes and workshops and talks. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? We love our work, and if this subject resonates with you, we are here to help. This is something we all have in common and it is a beautiful and humbling subject to embrace.

Natural Living Directory 2020

EyeCare Associates, PC

Hilda Demirjian Laser and Skin Care Center

Dr. Randy Schulman Offices in Trumbull, Southport, Norwalk and Stamford CTEyeCareAssociates.co

Summary/services offered: EyeCare Associates and Dr. Randy Schulman have been serving Fairfield County as a leading provider of optometry services, vision care products, vision therapy, sports vision, neuro-optometric rehabilitation and preventive eye care for nearly 30 years. With offices in Trumbull, Southport, Norwalk and Stamford, the experienced team of doctors and therapists helps patients of all ages with their vision needs, including those with complex vision needs such as specialty contact lenses, dry eye, reading and learning challenges, brain injury and strabismus. What drew you to this profession? When I was 15 years old, I worked for Dr. Carl Gruning, a behavioral optometrist in Fairfield. I was amazed at how much better the patients got after doing vision therapy. The children were more focused and better behaved, and the adults were happier. As a behavioral optometrist, I understand that, “how you see is how you be,” and vision can be changed for the better. How does your work differ from others in your profession? As an integrative optometrist, I am looking at how the visual system functions. I look at how vision is connected to physical, emotional and mental health and overall wellness. Treatment based on the whole person includes prescribing optimal glasses, as well as giving lifestyle modifications and visual wellness suggestions. What should someone expect from working with you? Patients should expect a careful assessment of symptoms, visual demands, health and wellness, visual function and prescription needs. We also give recommendations for optimizing vision and quality of life. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? We place high emphasis on education and offer internships for optometry students from around the country and plan on adding another SUNY Optometry resident. We are happy to speak to groups about vision and are actively seeking individuals who want to join our team. See ad, page 11.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

34 S Broadway, Ste 607, White Plains, NY 914-374-1756 Info@HildaDemirjianLaser.com HildaDemirjianLaser.com Summary/services offered: We perform aesthetic laser treatment, such as laser hair removal and collagen laser treatment for fine lines, wrinkles, stretch marks, scars and acne. We offer cutting-edge treatments such as radio frequency (RF), EMS for stimulation of muscle under the skin, and electroporation to bring collagen and hyaluronic acid deeper into the skin. We offer FDA-approved, pharmaceutical-grade, cruelty-free, unisex and botanically-derived skin care products suitable for the entire family. What drew you to this profession? Growing up in Persia, as young as the age of 7, I used to go to the spa (hammam) on a weekly basis with my mother, grandmother and the rest of my family. That is why skin is very precious to me. I bring my 25 years of experience and love to help people with their skin. How does your work differ from others in your profession? I have extensive experience with aesthetic laser and skin care. As an educator, I love to educate my clients. I travel worldwide to educate myself and bring the best experiences to my practice. What should someone expect from working with you? They will receive honesty, respect, privacy, thoroughness and confidentiality from working with me. What changes do you plan in 2020? I intend to travel more, attend seminars and increase awareness by introducing a weekly podcast on the science of aesthetic laser and skin care. My objective is to be an ambassador for aesthetic laser and skin care. We also keep integrating cutting-edge treatments into our practice, providing clients with the highest level of care and outcomes. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? I want readers to know that laser, specifically collagen laser treatment, is a holistic and non-invasive treatment. I want to give them hope, confidence and knowledge to look their best without having to resort to injections or surgery. That is why I offer a free, no-obligation consultation. See ad, page 5.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Hummingbird Sound Yoga Barbara (Bobbi) Soares Bucks Rock Rd, New Milford 860-946-9470 BSoares@LightOfTheNewMoon.com HummingbirdSoundYoga.com Facebook @HummingbirdSoundYoga

Summary/services offered: Sound and vocal yoga classes; sound healing immersions including gongs, bowls, tuning forks, voice, transformational energy/shamanic Reiki; humming meditation, toning, deep listening; sacred sound journeys/sound baths/sacred fire ceremony; workshops, group and private sessions; available for performances, presentations What drew you to this profession? Church bells ringing when I was born! I’ve had a lifelong study of and interest in spirituality, singing, creative arts. Then unresolved health issues of Lyme, Ehlers-Danlos and a NDE drew me deeper into the sacred work of the gong and sound yoga healing. How does your work differ from others in your profession? A diverse blend of vibrational healing techniques from music, science, creative arts therapy, shamanic light body practices, sacred sound journeys and soul retrievals. Passion for honoring our unique vibration through play grounding, laughter, primal sound and vocal yoga. Giving others hope and inspiration by sharing my “wounded healer” experience of undiagnosed Lyme and Ehlers-Danlos. Experimental and directed vocal/instrumental compositions and improvisations. What should someone expect from working with you? Strong intuitive guidance, commitment, compassion and respect. Honoring that we are all unique vibratory beings! What changes do you plan in 2020? As an ordained minister and sound healer, I will be offering non-denominational sacred sound ceremonies for weddings and other rites of passage. Also, I will be adding earth gong, shruti and hummingbird sound yoga into sound baths and actively promoting Humming For Peace and sacred sound jams and journeys at community events. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? DRINK DEEPLY. Hummingbird’s powerful medicine of vibration teaches you to listen deeply and be in the stillness of the present moment. It shows us how to take the journey without hesitation or expectation to find the perfect resonances that tune and nourish mind, body and spirit. It is only in the stillness of the present moment that we can clarify, resonate and reclaim our best self. See ad, page 31.

The Institute Of Sustainable Nutrition 113 Simsbury Rd, West Granby 860-764-9070 Joan@TIOSN.com TIOSN.com

Summary/services offered: We offer a unique education program blending the science of nutrition with the hands-on components of sustainable regenerative gardening practices, kitchen medicine, culinary skills and sustainable foraging. This time together creates an unavoidable community of like-minded individuals. What drew you to this profession? A good nutrition program needs to be whole. This means that we cannot teach about nutrition without talking about the health of the soil and growing practices, how food is harvested and prepared in the kitchen and the importance of knowing the traditional practices of kitchen medicine and sustainable foraging for nutrient-dense food and herbs. The vision was to create a program that incorporated all aspects of food and health with the gold standard of experiential, hands-on teaching. How does your work differ from others in your profession? We give hands-on experience and connect students to the outdoors in order to give a truly meaningful educational experience. Students grow and harvest food and herbs, prepare meals, ferment, make kitchen medicine, teas, tonics and brews; they taste, smell, forage, think, share and create a community and so much more. We also bring in experts from the food world to teach sections of the curriculum for a more well-rounded perspective. What should someone expect from working with you? We hear again and again that what they learn rocks our students’ worlds. They tell us that their life is never the same and they are grateful. What changes do you plan in 2020? We are always adding to our curriculum and looking for interesting speakers and guests. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? We provide life-altering learning, perspectives and experiences to our students that change how they live their life while building a life-long community. See ad, page 81.

Natural Living Directory 2020

Beth Leas

Wayne Leiss, LMT

In Person: Norwalk and Stamford Phone/Skype sessions also available 203-856-9566 TLCBethLeas@gmail.com BethLeas.com 203TLC.com

Centering Our Lives Through Touch 20 Fifth Ave, Apt A, Danbury 203-994-1207 Wayne@WayneLeiss.com WayneLeiss.com Summary/services offered: I am a speaker, educator, licensed massage therapist in the state of Connecticut and certified essential oil coach. I have studied the use of essential oils in the treatment of trauma, as well as using Symphony of the Cells protocols to support healthy body system response to maintain balance and harmony.

Summary/services offered: Transformative Healing sessions designed to inspire and facilitate change in your life—creating greater physical ease, emotional freedom, peace of mind and spiritual connection. What drew you to this profession? My healing journey began when I was drawn to meditation and alternative healing modalities as effective ways to heal from an abusive childhood. I love helping others who are feeling stuck step into their power to transform their lives. How does your work differ from others in your profession? I have 25+ years of extensive healing experience working with adults and children of all ages. I use four powerful tools: energy healing, meditation, reflective writing and transformative tarot. Your session may focus singularly on one of these or be a combination of several. What should someone expect from working with you? You will feel supported and come into a place where it is safe to wake up from what came before. Change is inevitable, but transformation is by conscious choice. What changes do you plan in 2020? I am looking forward to creating more online programs and retreats, in addition to collaborating with other professionals to best serve our clients. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? My down-to-earth sessions combine my gift of intuition with my personal practice of mindfulness, compassion and light-heartedness. See ad, page 39.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

What drew you to this profession? I especially enjoy sharing the benefits of dōTERRA Essential Oils, and I teach numerous classes on how they can be used in the home or office setting to enhance mood and support the body’s natural processes of healing. What sets your work apart from others in your profession? I have traveled the world, which allowed me to experience many types of massage and bodywork in various locales. I bring all of my experience to a client session and design a treatment plan that best fits the needs of my clients. What should someone expect from working with you? You will receive individualized treatment based on your specific needs. I focus on the individual in a clean and relaxing atmosphere and tailor my guidance to create a plan designed just for you. What changes do you plan in 2020? I will be integrating Symphony of the Cells protocols into my massage practice. The method balances the body physically, spiritually and emotionally. I will be educating clients about how the systems of the body relate to each other and how massage and essential oils help provide balance. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? I am committed to living a balanced life. I have 28 years of corporate business experience and community leadership. I was also the recipient of the 2014 Cultural Alliance of Western Connecticut Heart of the Arts Award and the 2011 Ridgefield Arts Council Behind the Scenes Award. I am able to counsel my clients to enjoy life with a similar balance. See ad, page 39.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Lyme Connection 400 Main St, Ridgefield Info@LymeConnection.org LymeConnection.org

Summary/ services offered: Lyme Connection is an all-volunteer, community-based task force providing support and resources to patients and their families coping with tick-borne disease. Programs include a free monthly evening support group; an annual patient conference and health fair at WCSU; BLAST Prevention Program community education programs and materials; and library author discussions and seminars. What changes do you plan in 2020? Lyme Connection has developed an all inclusive Tick Prevention Packet, including a tweezer with magnifying glass, proper tick removal info card, tick ID card and a BLAST prevention magnet. We will be hosting the 14th Annual Tick-borne Disease Patient Conference and Health Fair at WCSU in Danbury on Friday, May 15. This year’s program includes Dr. Richard Horowitz as keynote speaker and Kris Newby, author of Bitten and recipient of Lyme Connections 2020 Courage Award. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? All the Lyme Connection events and services can be found on our website: LymeConnection.org. Join us in protecting the health of our communities by preventing tick-borne illness and supporting patients and their families. See ad, page 13.

If you’re alive, there’s a purpose for your life. ~Rick Warren

Mind Body Transformation Hypnosis Center

Diane Bahr-Groth, CH, TFT-Adv 1177 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-595-0110 Diane@MindBodyTransformation.com MindBodyTransformation.com Facebook.com/MindBodyTransformationHypnosisCenter Summary/services offered: Mind-Body Transformation offers fast, easy, natural, powerful and successful techniques for weight loss, smoking cessation, public speaking, fear, stress, anxiety, insomnia, pain management, trauma, grief, anger and more for adults, teenagers and children. What drew you to this profession? I have always wanted to help people in a meaningful way. My own mysterious illness caused me to search for a successful, holistic approach to health for myself and for others. What should someone expect from working with you? I am a registered, certified consulting hypnotist. I practice Thought Field Therapy-Adv and Voice Technology, virtual gastric band hypnosis, neurolinguistic programming (NLP), time line therapy, complementary medical hypnosis, hypnobirthing and Touch for Health. We have introduced new programs for children from age 5 and older called "Calm Kids; Stress Less", as well as stress reduction and pain management programs for caregivers and cancer patients. What changes do you plan in 2020? Mind-Body Transformation uses a unique, effective system of therapeutic techniques that can naturally and easily help create life-changing experiences and result in feelings of deep peace and relaxation. We are always on the lookout for new techniques and technologies that will help our clients achieve their goals. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? In today’s world, we may often find ourselves or loved ones filled with stress, fear and anxiety. There is hope. Mind-Body can help restore peace and harmony quickly and easily. See ads, pages 23 and 77.

Natural Living Directory 2020

Nadia Noori, ND

Osteopathic Wellness Center

Shalva Clinic 8 Lincoln St, Westport 203-916-4600 DrNoori@ShalvaClinic.org ShalvaClinic.org

David L. Johnston, DO 158 Danbury Rd Ste 8, Ridgefield 203-438-9915 Info@OsteopathicWellness.net OsteopathicWellness.net

Summary/services offered: As a licensed naturopathic physician, I utilize comprehensive assessments in conjunction with innovative and standard laboratory testing to develop tailored health plans that encourage the body’s inherent ability to heal. What drew you to this profession? Having experienced the benefits and practice of naturopathic philosophy firsthand, I have a strong desire to aid others on their health journey. I seek to understand and clarify the “whys” while assisting patients in the application and maintenance of a healthier life. How does your work differ from others in your profession? In addition to a general family practice, my area of specialty lies in optimizing brain health with a focus on neurodegenerative and neuropsychological conditions. What should someone expect from working with you? There are a variety of therapies and services I am trained in, including nutritional and lifestyle counseling, herbal medicine, vitamin and mineral supplementation, homeopathy, physical manipulation, acupuncture, craniosacral therapy and LENS neurofeedback. What changes do you plan in 2020? My mission is to continue bringing preventative advice to the forefront of health care. This will not only educate patients, but also enable all healthcare practitioners involved in the care of my patients to collaborate and collectively improve the quality of life for those we seek to serve. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? I am focused on meaningful and measurable outcomes. Be it a comprehensive workup, pain management or simply optimizing an already healthy mind and body, my passion lies in fostering a collaborative relationship with my patients and their families so that they can take an active role in the improvement of their overall wellness and health. See ad, back cover.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

Summary/services offered: Dr. Johnston provides gentle, intuitive, hands-on osteopathic and cranial-sacral treatment to release restrictions in fascia, muscles and joints in addition to restoring circulation and balance of the nervous system. This treatment is effective for inflammation and pain; concussions; birth trauma; sports injuries; stress/ anxiety; headaches; fibromyalgia; and back, neck, spine and joint pain. IV Therapy, detoxification, nutrition, specialized blood work and custom foot orthotics are also available. What drew you to this profession? Watching my parents struggle with chronic health issues gave me a deeper appreciation for prevention of disease. Osteopathic medicine provided the perfect tool, combining holistic and traditional approaches for healing the whole person. How does your work differ from others in your profession? Health and wellness is not just about the absence of disease and treating the occurring symptoms. A person must be empowered on their life journey to care for and nurture their body, mind and spirit—and that is my mission as I work with my patients. I am board-certified in neuromusculoskeletal medicine and osteopathic manipulative medicine; a Diplomate of the American Board of Integrative Holistic Medicine and Nutrition; and a Diplomate of the North American Academy of Neural Therapy. Also, I am on the associate faculty for the Sutherland Cranial Teaching Foundation and Osteopathic Cranial Academy. Recently certified by and a member of International Lyme and Associated Disease Society (ILADS). What should a patient expect from working with you? As you enter our serene wellness center, expect to be empowered on your path to optimal health. We will work together, and you will leave with a comprehensive holistic plan you can follow. What changes do you plan for your practice in 2020? New this year, I am using a cutting-edge therapy called Neural Therapy in the practice. This allows old scars and fibrous tissue restrictions to be released with an injection of a procaine anesthetic solution that clears interference fields in the nervous system and heals pain and injury.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

OsteoStrong Darien & OsteoStrong Greenwich • Goodwives Shopping Center, 25 Old Kings Hwy N, Darien •10 Milbank Ave, Greenwich 203-900-1661 HelloCT@OsteoStrong.me Osteostrong.me

Summary/services offered: OsteoStrong is a system that helps strengthen the foundation of your body. In a single quick weekly session, you reduce or eliminate joint and back pain, develop strength, improve bone density plus achieve better posture and balance. What drew you to this profession? The driving force was a passion for improving people’s lives. What sets your work apart from others in your profession? OsteoStrong offers a highly effective, evidence-based musculoskeletal strengthening program that grows new bone tissue, increases muscle and strengthens tendons and ligaments. What should someone expect from working with you? An improved life by optimizing your body function to perform at its best ability. What changes do you plan in 2020? We have all-new affordable plans at our Connecticut centers, and new centers are opening in Manhattan and Scarsdale, NY. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? OsteoStrong is remarkable for anyone as they get older to maintain youthful bone density and bone health as well as reduce the risk of injuries, improve posture and reduce or eliminate back and joint pain. See ad, page 19.

Our Collective Transformation

Laura Alvarez Offers hands-on sessions in Bethel and Westport Offers one-day retreats throughout Connecticut 203-943-1630 Laura@OurCollectiveTransformation.com OurCollectiveTransformation.com Summary/services offered: A 22-step Fearlessly Authentic Life Program wakes up higher potential in the brain, dissipates stress and anxiety and transforms you; one-day Shift Immersion Retreats awaken higher states of consciousness so you can experience your transcendent self and become radically free; online Programs and New Human University/Meta Modern Mystery School Access. What drew you to this profession? Suicide and addiction rates are the highest they’ve been in the past 20 years. This is unacceptable to me. Even with all the holistic modalities available, our current system is broken. I want people to experience peace, I want people to feel bliss, I want people to know complete freedom, even amidst chaos. What sets your work apart from others in your profession? The future of our human evolution requires a type of transformation that creates an increased complexity in the human brain and the human mind. This work is based in science and is measured, repeatable and sustainable. What should someone expect from working with you? They can expect to awaken their inner organic technology, increase their cognitive bandwidth and neurological flexibility and discover they are good enough, worthy enough, deserving, connected and part of a new story. What change do you plan in 2020? The change is already occurring! Leading the leaders and healing the healers, creating a ripple effect throughout humanity. It’s time. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? As a Human, as a change agent, as a practitioner…What are you doing to radically transform yourself? What are you doing to radically change the world? Call me for a free consultation.

Natural Living Directory 2020

Samantha Parker, BS, Ayurvedic Practitioner, RM

Roseann Capanna-Hodge & Associates

203-246-2578 Samantha@Anjali.Life • Anjali.Life

Summary/services offered: I work with both adults and children, developing lifestyle and nutrition plans based on individual doshic balance of vata, pitta and kapha to overcome chronic health conditions such as gut health, arthritis, weight management, brain fog/memory issues, chronic fatigue, women’s health, hypertension, high cholesterol, allergies, constipation, hyperacidity, skin irritations, candida overgrowth and SIBO. I offer individualized detoxification programs, Ayurvedic therapies, herbal medicine and vibrational energy medicine. What drew you to this profession? I suffered from a life-threatening bacteria that caused damage to all of my organs. My journey was long and hard until I found an Ayurvedic practitioner who guided me back to health. I began my formal studies in Ayurveda after finding balance again; it is now my life’s purpose to help others. What sets your work apart from others in your profession? I integrate vibrational sound therapy of the five elements as part of all treatment plans, as well as work one-on-one with clients, preparing a medicinal food recipe to be used as part of their wellness plan. It is the essence of using our food as medicine. What should someone expect from working with you? During my practitioner-level studies, I was immersed in the classical texts of Ayurveda. My knowledge is deeply rooted in these ancient teachings but my approach is breaking down the practices into accessible pieces for the world we live in today. The work we do together is focused on the current season and your time of life. The goal is to help you find harmony, health and balance with the natural world. What changes do you plan in 2020? As a mom of four children I am reminded daily how quickly children fall out of balance. Acne, stress, obesity, digestive problems and sleep issues are just a few symptoms I see when working with children. I will be adding workshops for parents, children and college students to provide Ayurvedic knowledge and tools to live in a balanced state of health at home, away at school or during summer camps. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? There is innate cellular intelligence in our food and the plants used in Ayurvedic herbal medicines. This intelligence is communicated with cells throughout our own body to obtain balance. This communication does not exist in chemically derived food or supplementation. When we employ the science of Ayurveda into the healing process, healing happens on both subtle and gross levels of the body, mind and spirit. 50

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

Roseann Capanna-Hodge, EdD, LPC, BCN, LLC Integrative and Pediatric Mental Health Expert 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ste 6, Ridgefield Satellite location in Newtown 203-438-4848 • Info@DrRoseann.com DrRoseann.com Summary/services offered: Our center supports children, adolescents, teens, adults and families around a variety of issues with non-medication therapies. We provide holistic, research-based treatments such as neurofeedback, biofeedback, advanced bioregulation therapy, counseling, parent coaching and EFT/Tapping. What first drew you to this profession? Dr. Roseann says becoming a psychologist has truly been her life calling. Even as a very young child, she knew that was what she wanted to do. She loves helping individuals and families with brain-based therapies that offer an alternative to medication. How does your work differ from others in your profession? Our center has helped thousands of individuals and children reverse the most chronic conditions, such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, autism, concussions, pain, trauma, learning disabilities and more using proven holistic therapies such as neurofeedback, biofeedback and psychotherapy. What should someone expect from working with you? Our center offers integrative, brain-based mental health support, which is different than traditional psychotherapy. Through Dr. Roseann’s expert use of QEEG brain mapping, she is able to “check under the hood” and pinpoint the issue, then pair the right treatment at the right time, so issues can be reversed. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? Dr. Roseann is considered a leading expert in integrative mental health and neurofeedback and is highly experienced in using QEEG brain mapping to get to the bottom of the real issues. She is a highly sought-after media expert and has been featured on The Mel Robbins Show, PIX11 NYC, CBS, Fox News, NBC, Huffington Post, Martha Stewart and numerous other media outlets. See ad, page 33.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Saltana Cave Himalayan Salt Spa Anna Pogoda, Founder 590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-969-4327 Anna@SaltanaCave.com SaltanaCave.com Facebook.com/SaltanaCave

Summary/ services offered: Salt therapy, also known as halotherapy, is still a relatively new concept in the U.S. As soon as you enter Saltana Cave, you are surrounded by tons of Himalayan salt rocks. This beautiful and glowing space has been designed for you to feel an immediate sense of relief on emotional and physical levels. In the cave, we offer salt cave sessions for therapy and relaxation, Himalayan salt products, classes and workshops, private parties, and birthday and musical events. What drew you to this profession? I grew up around natural salt mines in Poland. On a summer visit to Poland, I noticed my daughter’s asthma improved after several visits to a healing salt cave. I decided to bring that to where we lived in Fairfield County and opened the first salt cave in the area. What changes do you plan in 2020? We are offering more sound healing events, including crystal bowls music in the cave, as well as many classes and workshops covering various health and wellness topics. We have a new website and, along with it, we have launched a new blog. Visit us at SaltanaCave.com to find out more. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? Saltana Cave is a wonderful place for people of all ages to come, experience and receive relief on some level. Research suggests that one 45-minute session in the cave equates to three days spent at the shore as far as the negative ions and minerals go. Book your visit today. See ad, page 77.

Salt Cave of Darien 555 Post Rd, Darien 203-658-7667 Info@SaltCaveofDarien.com SaltCaveofDarien.com

DARIEN’S LUXURIOUS SALT Summary/ Salt therapy sessions that can services offered: alleviate stress, Our wellness , respiratory cond & skin ailments for adults and c destination offers a YOGA * STRETCH * MEDITA rich lineup of COFFEE TIME * CAVE REN therapies: www.saltcaveofdarien.com community salt cave sessions, special events with local healers, lunchtime meditation class, coffee chatter sessions and weekly yoga and stretch classes.

What drew you to this profession? STRESS! I knew I needed to find something to release tension from a stressful job. I enjoyed my own visit to a salt cave and once I researched it further, I found there were many additional benefits that can help people with different ailments. How does your work differ from others in your profession? Our cave is very luxurious–UGG blankets, the sound of our waterfall and a variety of music options; you will surely leave rejuvenated. Our staff will ensure you enjoy your time with us.

What should someone expect from working with you? Customers should relaxation and rejuvenation. Over time, 555 Post Roadfeel * Darien * 203-658-7667 7667 * info@saltcaveofdarien.c regular exposure to the salt cave may help improve respiratory or skin conditions in some people. We listen to our customers to make their experience even more amazing. What changes do you plan in 2020? The Salt Cave has added a private salt-lined room for individual treatments including massage, reflexology, acupuncture, acu-facial, energy work or tarot card readings. We’ve been working on two really exciting plans that we will roll out this year, so stay tuned! What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? The benefits of dry salt therapy (halotherapy) are clinically proven, and it has been used in Europe for centuries. Dry salt acts like a sponge, attracting foreign substances along its path through the respiratory tract. We offer such a positive atmosphere, and people have found relief from many issues. See ad, page 39.

If you don’t know your blood pressure, it’s like not knowing the value of your company. ~Mehmet Oz Natural Living Directory 2020

Nancy S. Scherlong, LCSW, PTR, M/S 470 Main St, Ste #307, Ridgefield and Norwalk (Silvermine) Locations 914-572-3167 WellnessMetaphors.com ChangeYourNarrativeTherapy.com

Summary/services offered: I offer life, wellness and creativity coaching as well as experiential and holistic psychotherapy. I utilize techniques such as EMDR and brainspotting, IFS, SE, and expressive arts-based groups and workshops. What drew you to this profession? Originally an artist, I have been a psychotherapist for over 20 years. I began helping others after my own recovery from an automobile accident in 1991. At that time, I received many of the methods I now use with my clients. How does your work differ from others in your profession? My work is strength-based and focused on positive psychology and innovative problem solving. I will help you find and express your own unique voice through the creative arts—journal work, poetry and psychodrama. What should someone expect from working with you? My philosophy is that we can all change our lives by changing our story or mindset. Once we have shifted how we view things, we can approach them in a new and fresh way. What changes do you plan in 2020? I find I am teaching more and more workshops, facilitating groups and providing training in person, online and at conferences. I am expanding my corporate wellness offerings as well as customizing packages for small businesses. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? Healing is a collaboration or a partnership involving mind, body and spirit as well as a chosen practitioner. Contact me today for a free 30-minute discovery session about how we can work together to achieve your goals! See ad, page 73.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

Victoria Shaw, PhD, LPC 203-254-3403 VFShawPhD@gmail.com VictoriaShawPsychotherapy.com

Summary/services offered: I support clients in dealing with life’s struggles and improving the quality of their lives. My work combines traditional psychotherapy with intuitive guidance for children, teens and adults. What drew you to this profession? I have a strong desire to be of service and to support people in their efforts to live more joyful and fulfilling lives. The more I do this work, the more it is apparent that this truly is what I was meant to do. How does your work differ from others in your profession? My intuition guides me directly to the source of my clients’ struggles, and helps me choose the most effective interventions and supports. I also help clients connect with their own intuitive wisdom. I have a doctorate in cognitive psychology, and completed post-doctoral training in child development and educational psychology. I am a licensed professional counselor and a certified distance counselor with advanced training in EMDR, dialectal behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and energy psychology. What should someone expect from working with you? Sessions can help clients understand themselves better, identify personal strengths, find direction and guidance in making decisions, process past hurts, release resentments, reduce anxiety and learn to deal with life’s struggles. What changes do you plan in 2020? I am offering more workshops and group sessions, including a monthly intuition enlightenment book group, group intuitive readings and healings, and intuition development workshops. I have also created my first self-paced, fully online course, which I am very excited about. Visit my website for details; it will launch soon! What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? That I love what I do; I continue to be inspired by my clients’ spirit, courage, healing and growth. See ad, page 24.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

SOPHIA Natural Health Center 31 Old Rte 7, Brookfield 203-740-9300 INM.center

Summary/services offered: SOPHIA Natural Health Center specializes in integrative natural medicine, which includes the best of East Asian medicine combined with modern functional medicine in a system that works. What drew you to this profession? The system was founded by Dr. Ken Hoffman, DACM, LAc, who believes the only way to regain and sustain good health is by addressing the root cause and treating the body with acupuncture, nutrition and various natural therapies that enhance the body‘s ability to restore and maintain health. How does your work differ from others in your profession? We blend two great medical systems and then provide care— based on our findings—that includes Eastern medicine evaluation, functional testing and all-natural therapies customized to each individual. What should someone expect from working with you? As a patient, you should expect a comprehensive evaluation and professional care from our 20-plus years of experience, which has benefitted thousands of happy patients. What changes do you plan in 2020? Dr. Hoffman will focus on his core specialties of integrative cardiovascular care, Lyme disease, digestive health and migraines, while the clinic focuses on education and community outreach. We will further develop our educational platforms and web store to help people locally and beyond. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? For 20 years, Dr. Hoffman and his staff have offered the most comprehensive natural medical care in the area. If you are looking for a full-service natural medicine clinic that can provide everything a medical office can—including in-office testing, holistic programs and a caring staff—this is the clinic for you.

Soul Healing Journey, LLC Eilis Philpott Fairfield 203-767-5954 Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com SoulHealingJourney.com

Summary/services offered: I am a master healer and teacher certified in numerous modalities. I offer soul-level healing, which clears blocks, obstacles and challenges that are preventing you from living your life to its fullest potential. What drew you to this profession? I became fascinated at an early age with the impact that thoughts and emotions had on the body and the psyche. As I experienced both working in the corporate world, the teaching world and then the world of energetic healing, I knew my place was in the healing arts. How does your work differ from others in your profession? I often use the breath as the foundation for my healing modalities to access the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual energetic bodies. The work we do together at Soul Healing Journey supports the internal energetic shifts needed in order to live a life of peace, harmony and joy as well as be in alignment with your soul purpose. What should someone expect from working with you? All sessions are dictated by the needs of the client on that day and every session is thus individualized to each person’s needs. Over more than 20 years, I have seen individuals change their careers, work through major trauma and abuse, and improve their current relationships or create new ones. What changes do you plan in 2020? I have been growing, developing and traveling during 2018. I continually strive to educate myself to better serve in my practice. New modalities are often added or incorporated into my offerings. 2020 promises even greater expansion with the addition of trainings and individual healing sessions. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? The greatest wish I have for all my clients is that they truly know what it feels like to be loved unconditionally. Many of us have not been given that gift and need to learn how to give it to ourselves. No matter where you are, where you’ve been and where you’re going, you deserve to know and love every aspect of yourself. See ad, page 82. Natural Living Directory 2020

Valley Spirit Wellness Cooperative

Transformation Center CT Katie Augustyn 7 Reimer Rd, Westport 203-820-3800 TransformationCenterCT@gmail.com TransformationCenterCT.com

6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot 860-619-2788 Info@ValleySpiritCoop.com • ValleySpiritCoop.com

Summary/services offered: We offer group workshops and trainings, as well as individual coaching and healing sessions, including meditation and Shamanic sessions. Our offerings are designed for those seeking healing, spiritual growth and personal transformation. What drew you to this profession? My spiritual journey began when I took courses in energy healing and realized for myself how beneficial it was. Becoming a transformation coach was a natural next step in my journey. I have a passion for empowering people to be the best they can be! What sets your work apart from others in your profession? I have training and experience in several modalities that I use to help my clients heal, evolve and transform their lives. Each client receives a personalized session based on their individual needs. We also offer a variety of workshops and trainings. What should someone expect from working with you? You will be nurtured and honored, and you will release energy and patterns that don’t serve you. You will experience a greater self-awareness and achieve clarity on what you need to have the life you want. What changes do you plan in 2020? We are offering a new monthly course called Spiritual Curriculum for Living, and we are creating more new courses and workshops. We will continue to offer Satsang, Shamanic clinics and drumming and journeying events. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? We are all connected and are here to help each other thrive. I would love to meet you and assist you in becoming who you are meant to be! See ad, page 39.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

Summary/services offered: Valley Spirit is a cooperative wellness center dedicated to serving our local community. We offer a unique blend of integrative medicine, classes and self-care options, serving patients and students alike by helping them to unlock their own innate healing abilities. Therapies include acupuncture, holistic Psychotherapy, herbal medicine, various styles of bodywork, intuitive healing, massage therapies, holistic art therapy and aesthetic arts and facials. Classes include various styles of yoga, tai chi, qigong, meditation and more. We offer a team of thirty experienced therapists and teachers at our wellness cooperative What drew you to this profession? One of the three owners, Kristin Kunhardt (Valley Spirit’s CEO and Vision Keeper), was inspired to open the wellness center after her own personal healing experience with acupuncture and meditation. She moved back to her hometown to be near her father, and witnessed the benefits of alternative healing on his health and aging process. She was inspired to open a center where many therapies could share space to serve her hometown’s county and beyond. How does your work differ from others in your profession? Many of the teachers and therapists have been practicing individually for 20-35 years. We are also actively engaged with our local community, hosting events such as Village Nights and the newly launched Art Tripping Salons (an art salon for modern times). What should someone expect from working with you? Compassion, kindness, courtesy and knowledge. We are here to help our patients and students, whether they are new to alternative care and the classes we offer or are returning to therapies and exercise they may have once explored. What changes do you plan in 2020? Valley Spirit welcomes new teachers to the teaching staff, increasing our seven day a week offerings to 17 classes per week. The addition of holistic Psychotherapies broadens Valley Spirit's approach to support and heal the mind/body connection. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? In our first three years, we have served many patients and students, teachers and therapists. We are a wellness cooperative, offering all things to support mind, body and spirit. We are your neighbors and are here to serve the community and one another. 2020 marks our initiation of a membership program to assure Valley Spirit’s future in our village.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

The Office of Dr. Michael Wald 20 Sunderland Ln, Katonah, NY 914-552-1442 Info@BloodDetective.com DrMichaelWald.com

Summary/services offered: I provide practical and natural solutions for people based upon their unique chemistry, using the Blood Detective Software system I developed.

Wellness Institute

Marvin P. Schweitzer, ND 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203-847-2788 Info@DrMarvinSchweitzer.com DrMarvinSchweitzer.com Summary/services offered: Naturopathic treatments which cleanse, detox, nourish, repair and rebalance. These include: Electrodermal screening, Bio-Energy Testing and individualized metabolic optimization, BEMER circulation enhancement, Brainpaint EEG Biofeedback, Ondamed PEMF Therapy, homeopathy, nutrition programs, energy medicine, botanicals, oxygen multistep therapy/ EWOT with altitude contrast.

What drew you to this profession? I have been practicing holistic health for over 30 years. My father was a doctor of chiropractic and nutritionist and he inspired me. I went on to earn my master’s in nutrition and my medical diploma. What sets your work apart from others in your profession? I developed the Blood Detective software system to nutritionally interpret lab results and provide tailored food, lifestyle and nutritional supplement suggestions. The software, my experience and my detailed health intake enable the best health opportunity for my patients. What should someone expect from working with you? They should expect results. Results happen when people get the attention that they deserve. Testing is useful at times, but experience and education are needed to recognize the problems and create natural solutions that fit the individual. What changes do you plan in 2020? I will complete my book, Your New Normal—Your Extraordinary Health Plan. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? As the Blood Detective, I have the laboratory technology, experience and know-how to help people get their health back— especially those experiencing chronic or more difficult health problems. See ad, page 9.

What should someone expect from working with you? During each office visit, we work on nourishing, balancing, repairing and cleansing your body, as well as working on stress and epigenetics. How does your work differ from others in your profession? We have over 25 years of family practice experience with cutting-edge, highly individualized approaches to help unleash your body’s healing power. Areas of specialty include: allergies, anti-aging, arthritis, candida, cholesterol, digestive health, hormonal balancing, environmental sensitivities, fatigue, headaches, drainage and detoxification, heavy metal detox, Lyme disease, ADD/ADHD, tissue repair, stress and weight optimization. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? We are enthusiastically committed to doing what it takes to help you get well by addressing underlying causes. We take the necessary time; make the necessary effort; and have experience, expertise and amazing technology. When you share this commitment and desire to be a partner in this quest for wellness, outcomes are greatly improved. See ad, page 21.

If you look into your own heart, and you find nothing wrong there, what is there to worry about? What is there to fear? ~Confucius

Natural Living Directory 2020

Westport Therapeutic LLC

Whole-Body Dentistry

Betsy Benham Fruda, LMT, owner 16 Ketchum St, Westport 203-858-0679 TheBodyMine@gmail.com BetsyBWTllc.com

at The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center Mark A. Breiner, DDS, FAGD, FIAOMT 501 Kings Hwy East, Fairfield 203-371-0300 WholeBodyDentistry.com

Summary/services offered: I offer therapeutic massage to restore fascial function, postural analysis, strengthening, stretching and restorative movement and Pilates instruction. I work together with you to determine which daily habits create your bodily discomforts. What drew you to this profession? Having a massage during a stressful time and feeling the difference it made, then reading massage books and realizing it was knowledge I already had within. What sets your work apart from others in your profession? I work to keep you comfortable throughout: with muscles off stretch, going slowly to go deep, using decompression and movement to create freedom in the tissue. What should someone expect from working with you? They should expect to work collaboratively to determine how to restore their body to balance. I do give homework in the form of stretching/strengthening and breathing techniques. What changes do you plan in 2020? I’m moving to a new space that will allow me to teach Pilates on premises. I look forward to featuring collaborative sessions of fascial opening and strengthening. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? Truly therapeutic massage is one of the best ways to restore your body from the stressors of life that it endures. An ounce of prevention... See ad, page 39.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

Summary/services offered: One of the original pioneers in holistic dentistry, Dr. Mark A. Breiner views himself as a partner in his patients’ overall health and wellness plan. We offer general and holistic dentistry, mercury-free dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, conscious sedation, bio-compatibility testing, energetic testing, 3D panoramic imaging, treatment of sleep breathing disorders in children and adults, TMJ treatment, non-surgical periodontal treatment, microscopic evaluation for periodontal bacteria and tooth whitening. Our health center also offers naturopathic and osteopathic care, including hyperbaric oxygen and neurocognitive treatments. How does your work differ from others in your profession? Whole-Body Dentistry goes beyond the traditional practice of dentistry and understands the inter-relationship of the mouth-body connection. This all-encompassing philosophy recognizes that any work done in the mouth affects the entire human body—often with surprisingly profound results, either for the positive or for the negative. By being aware of these relationships, we strive to minimize the invasive quality of dental procedures. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? Dr. Breiner’s innovative approach combines the use of leading-edge technology with a sound and broad holistic strategy for healthy living, thus minimizing invasive procedures that so often occur in traditional dentistry. We offer the most advanced general and holistic dentistry care and use state-of-the-art technology to support the body’s innate ability to heal. See ad, page 2.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Whole-Body Medicine LLC

at The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center Adam Breiner, ND, Director David Brady, ND, CCN Elena Sokolova, MD, ND David Johnston, DO 501 Kings Hwy East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 Info@WholeBodyMed.com WholeBodyMed.com Summary/services offered: We offer an individualized, integrative, holistic approach for treating a wide range of conditions. We offer hyperbaric oxygen therapy, neurofeedback, osteopathic medicine, cranial osteopathy, intravenous nutrition and chelation therapy, Chinese medicine, Japanese Reiki, homeopathy, energy medicine, pulsed magnetic field therapy (PEMF), PRP and stem cell, integrative medicine, naturopathic medicine, colon hydrotherapy, detoxification, allergy desensitization, and healthy aging services. How does your work differ from others in your profession? Our caring physicians—Drs. Adam Breiner, David Brady, David Johnston and Elena Sokolova—each bring a unique set of skills for diagnosing and treating their patients. The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center also offers holistic dentistry and The NeuroEdge Brain Performance Center. What should someone expect from working with you? Our philosophy of healing as integrative physicians is to seek to remove the obstacles to a cure. We focus on Lyme disease, brain trauma, ADD/ADHD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, female concerns, thyroid and adrenal issues, fibromyalgia, gastrointestinal concerns, weight loss, healthy aging, immune disorders, toxicities, sports injuries, and athletic performance enhancement. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? We combine state-of-the-art science with centuries-old healing modalities to correct underlying imbalances and address issues which may interfere with the body’s ability to heal itself. See ad, page 2.

Wolf Spirit Wellness and Counseling Center, LLC

Northwood Village, 125 Main St N, Ste 2B Woodbury 203-263-3175 Info@WolfSpiritWellness.org WolfSpiritWellness.org Summary/services offered: We offer an integrated approach to mental health counseling for all ages that includes a specialty in trauma and Cluster B personalities. What drew you to this profession? We all have a desire to assist individuals to find peace in their lives in addition to becoming the best version of themselves. How does your work differ from others in your profession? We meet the client where they are in the process and offer psychotherapy as well as alternative modalities such as naturopathy, meditation, yoga and psychopharmacology under one roof. What should someone expect from working with you? That if they are ready to do the inner work our practice provides every individual with compassion, nonjudgment, trust, empathy, love and peace. What changes do you plan in 2020? We will be moving to a larger space soon so we are able to offer even more to our clients. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? That finances should not stand in the way of good mental well-being. We work on a sliding scale and take most insurance, including Husky. See ad, page 11.

Health starts in the head and goes to the heart and other parts of the body. ~Sourav Ganguly

Natural Living Directory 2020

NATURAL LIVING

DIRECTORY 2020 13TH OCTAVE/LAHOCHI SOUL HEALING JOURNEY, LLC Eilis Philpott Fairfield 203-767-5954 Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com SoulHealingJourney.com

Eilis is a master healer and teacher and certified in numerous modalities as both a practitioner and teacher. She is one of only two people approved to teach 13th Octave/LaHoChi in the U.S. She offers soul level healing, which clears any blocks, obstacles and challenges that are preventing you from living your life to its fullest potential. See ad, page 82.

ACUPUNCTURE SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER

Ken Hoffman, DACM, LAc, Medical Director 31 Old Rte 7, Brookfield 203-740-9300 • INM.Center Using Functional and Chinese medical principles, our doctors get to the source of your health concerns. Diagnostic methods include functional testing such as advanced bloodwork analysis, cardiovascular testing, hormone evaluation and thermography. Our customized treatment program includes acupuncture, herbal and nutritional medicine, diet and lifestyle counseling and more. Most major insurance accepted.

JAMPA STEWART, MSOM, LAC  Board Certified Acupuncturist Valley Spirit Wellness Cooperative 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot 860-619-2788 ValleySpiritCoop.com

Compassionate professional care for those suffering from pain, internal disorders, menstrual issues and menopause, infertility, depression and anxiety, insomnia, addiction, fatigue, tune-ups and more.

This comprehensive resource guide includes community leaders in natural health, green living and personal empowerment. No matter what your vision or mission is for this year, we are certain you will find someone or something in the following pages that inspires and supports your efforts to become healthier and happier. Here’s to your vibrant 2020! UNIVERSITY OF BRIDGEPORT UB ACUPUNCTURE CLINIC 60 Lafayette St, Bridgeport 203-576-4349 Bridgeport.edu/UBClinics

We offer Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture, tuina massage, cupping, moxabustion, and TCM herbal treatments to treat both pain and dysfunction in the body. Care is rendered by our student interns under the supervision of our well-qualified licensed acupuncturists. Ask about our Integrated Clinic. See ad, page 4.

ASCENSION

ASTROLOGY MARJORIE PARTCH

Jungian Astrology • Tarot • Reiki 40 Richards Ave, Norwalk 203-912-3520 or Skype CyberAstrologer@Outlook.com Rather than predictions following the default mode, the Jungian approach provides insight into patterns and cycles of time, empowering you to transform challenges into opportunities.

AYURVEDA

MARCONICS: ASCENSION ENERGY HEALING COURSES

NEERU KAUSHIK, ND, MS ACU, MS, MA

Marconics practitioners are spiritual midwives birthing the Avatar race. Learn how to achieve ascension by integrating Avatar consciousness and claiming soul sovereignty. The Southern New England Teaching Team, Julie Oakes, Aaron Nebbia and Stephanie Patrick, were trained by and maintain an ongoing mentorship with Marconics originator, Alison David Bird CHt.

A combination of Ayurveda and Naturopathy is used to create a unique treatment plan to regain and maintain health. Based on one’s particular body constitution (dosha), a plan may include supplements, diet/nutrition suggestions, lifestyle management, detoxification, hydrotherapy, 0zone therapy, Panchakarma. See ad, page 28.

Throughout Connecticut and Rhode Island 203-533-9633 SNETeachers@Marconics.com Marconics.com

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Institute for Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Therapies 805 Kings Highway East, Fairfield 203-331-9111 DrKaushik@AyurvedicInstituteCT.com AyurvedicInstituteCT.com

AYURVEDIC MEDICINE ANJALI AYURVEDIC MEDICINE, LLC Samantha Parker, CAHC 203-246-2578 Samantha@Anjali.life • Anjali.life

I develop lifestyle and nutrition plans based on individual doshic balance of vata, pitta and kapha to overcome chronic health conditions, including: gut health, arthritis, weight management, brain fog/memory issues, chronic fatigue, women’s health, hypertension, high cholesterol, allergies, constipation, hyperacidity, skin irritations, candida overgrowth and SIBO. Individualized detoxification programs, Ayurvedic therapies, herbal medicine and vibrational energy medicine as needed.

natural living glossary Acupressure: Based on the same system as acupuncture, but fingers and hands are used instead of stimulation with needles in order to restore the balanced flow of the body’s life energy (qi or chi, pronounced “chee”). This force moves through the body along 12 energy pathways, or meridians, which practitioners unblock and strengthen. Acupuncture: An ancient Oriental technique that stimulates the body’s ability to sustain and balance itself, based on the theory that an electromagnetic life-force (qi or chi, pronounced “chee”) is channeled in a continuous flow throughout the body via a network of meridians. Disease is understood as an imbalance in the meridian system. Diagnosis of an imbalance is made by “reading” the pulse, face, tongue and body energy. To correct it, a practitioner inserts acupuncture needles at specific points along the meridians to stimulate or disperse the flow of life-force.

BIOFEEDBACK ROSEANN CAPANNA-HODGE, EDD, LPC, BCN, LLC

898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield Offices in Ridgefield and Newtown 203-438-4848 Info@DrRoseann.com • DrRoseann.com Advanced Bio-Regulation (BRT) is a unique approach to health and wellness that uses Biofeedback and PEMF-based Electromagnetic Technology to help the body better self-regulate, adapt and heal naturally. It is used for chronic pain, depression, anxiety, hormonal issues, Lyme, etc. See ad, page 33.

Alexander Technique: A system of re-educating the body and mind to support and facilitate proper posture and ease of movement. Through gentle manual guidance, accompanied by verbal directions, the Alexander teacher coaches the student to become aware of unnecessary tension and to unlearn long-standing patterns of movement. The Alexander technique is an established method for helping to improve chronic conditions, including: back, shoulder or neck pain; nervous tension; poor coordination; breathing problems; and vocal strain. It is frequently used by athletes and performing artists to improve performance level.

Safe, painless early detection 71 East Ave, Ste D, Norwalk 203-856-1421 • AlbaThermalImaging.com

Aromatherapy: An ancient healing art that uses the essential oils of herbs and flowers to treat emotional disorders, such as stress, anxiety and a wide range of other ailments. Oils are massaged into the skin, inhaled or added to a water bath. Often used in conjunction with massage therapy, acupuncture, reflexology, herbology, chiropractic or other holistic treatments.

Thermography can detect breast disease at its earliest stages and monitor and assess pain in any part of the body. Safe, painless, noninvasive, FDA registered. See ad, page 8.

Art Therapy: Uses the creative process of making art to improve and enhance physical, mental and emotional well-being, and to deepen self-awareness. The therapist makes a diagnosis and determines treatment plans by encouraging a client to express his or her feelings and unconscious thoughts through the nonverbal creative process and by observing the forms and content created.

BREAST THERMOGRAPHY ALBA THERMAL IMAGING LLC

SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER

Ken Hoffman, DACM, LAc, Medical Director 31 Old Rte 7, Brookfield 203-740-9300 • INM.Center Women’s Health: hormonal balancing, breast cancer prevention. Breast and full body thermography screening. Screening and treatment of chronic inflammation using medical infrared thermography (MIT). Safe, painless and non-invasive, thermography can detect early changes in breast tissue up to eight years before a mammogram. FDA-registered, our high-definition camera is the most advanced in the region.

Astrology: A system of traditions and beliefs that holds that the relative positions of celestial bodies either directly influence life on Earth or correspond to events experienced on a human scale. Modern astrologers define astrology as a symbolic language, art form and type of divination that can provide information about personality and human affairs, aid in the interpretation of past and present events, and predict the future. Ayurveda: The oldest medical system known to man and a comprehensive spiritual teaching practiced in India for 4,000 years. It focuses on achieving and maintaining perfect health via the balance of the elements air, fire and water (illness is considered an excess of any element). A patient’s body type— determined according to ayurvedic principles—is the basis for individualized dietary regimens and other preventive therapeutic interventions.

Bioenergetics: A psychotherapy that works through the body to engage the emotions. Performing specified postures and exercises causes the release of layers of chronic muscular tension and defensiveness, termed “body armor”. The unlocking of feelings creates the opportunity for understanding and integrating them. Biofeedback: A relaxation technique that monitors internal body states. It is used especially for stressrelated conditions. Such as asthma, migraines, insomnia and high blood pressure. During biofeedback, patients monitor minute metabolic changes (e.g., temperature, heart rate and muscle tension) with the aid of sensitive machines. By consciously thinking, visualizing, moving and relaxing, they learn which activities produce desirable changes in the internal processes being monitored. Bodywork: Massage and the physical practices of yoga are perhaps the best-known types of bodywork; both have proven successful in relieving tension and stress, promoting blood flow, loosening stiff muscles, and stimulating the organs. Massage therapies encompass countless techniques, including Swedish massage, shiatsu and Rolfing. The same is true for yoga. Finding bodywork that improves mental and physical health is a highly individual process. Several types may be combined for the greatest benefit.

Chelation therapy: A safe, painless, nonsurgical medical procedure that improves metabolic and circulatory function by removing undesirable heavy metals—such as lead, mercury, cadmium and copper— from the body. A series of intravenous injections of the synthetic amino acid EDTA are administered, usually in an osteopathic or medical doctor’s office. Over time, injections may halt the progress of the underlying condition that triggers the development of various degenerative conditions, such as diabetes, arthritis, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s and cancer. Chinese Medicine: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is one of the world’s oldest and most complete systems of holistic health care. It combines the use of medicinal herbs, acupuncture, food therapy, massage and therapeutic exercise, along with the recognition that wellness in mind, body and emotions depends on the harmonious flow of life-force energy (qi or chi, pronounced “chee”). Chiropractic: Based on the premise that proper structural alignment permits free flow of nerve activity in the body. When spinal vertebrae are out of alignment, they put pressure on the spinal cord and the nerves radiating from it, potentially leading to diminished function and illness. Misalignment can be caused by physical trauma, poor posture and stress. Colon therapy: An internal bath that washes away old toxic waste accumulated along the walls of the colon. It is administered with pressurized water by a professional using special equipment. One colonic irrigation is the equivalent of approximately four to six enemas; it cleans out matter that collects in the pockets and kinks of the colon. The treatment is used as both a corrective process and for prevention of disease.

Natural Living Directory 2020

natural living glossary Color therapy: Color therapists believe that the vibrations of color waves can directly affect the body’s cells and organs. Thus, different hues can treat illnesses, and improve physical, emotional and spiritual health. Many practitioners also claim that the body emits an aura—or energy field—with colors reflecting a person’s state of health. Color therapists apply colored lights or apply color mentally, through suggestion, to restore the body’s physical and psychic health. Another related sensory healing technique is light therapy, which attempts to restore well-being and can be successful in treating seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Counseling/Psychotherapy: These terms encompass a broad range of practitioners, from career counselors to psychotherapists treating depression, stress, addiction and emotional issues. Formats can vary from individual counseling to group therapy. In addition to verbal counseling techniques, some holistic therapists may use bodywork, ritual, energy healing and other alternative modalities as part of their practice.

CENTER Dentistry (Holistic): Regards the mouth as a microcosm of the entire body. The oral structures and the whole body are seen as a unit. Holistic dentistry often incorporates such methods as homeopathy, biocompatibility testing and nutritional counseling. Most holistic dentists emphasize wellness and preventive care, while avoiding and often recommending the removal of silver-mercury fillings. Detoxification: The practice of resting, cleansing and nourishing the body from the inside out. According to some holistic practitioners, accumulated toxins can drain the body of energy and make it more susceptible to disease. Detoxification techniques may include fasts, special diets, sauna sweats and colon cleansing. Doula (Birth): A woman who supports an expectant mother through pregnancy, labor, birth and the postpartum period. Studies indicate that support in labor has profound benefits, including shorter labor, less desire for pain medication, lower rate of cesarean section delivery, and more ease in initiation of breastfeeding. Doula (End-of-life): A person who works with a dying person and their family to create the end-of-life experience that best suits the patient and the family.

Craniosacral therapy (CST): A manual therapeutic procedure to remedy distortions in the strucure and function of the craniosacral mechanism—the brain and spinal cord, the bones of the skull, the sacrum and inter-connected membranes. Craniosacral work is based upon two major premises: that the bones of the skull can be manipulated—because they never completely fuse—and that the pulse of the cerebrospinal fluid can be balanced by a practitioner trained to detect variations in that pulse. CST is used to treat chronic pain, migraine headaches, temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), ear and eye problems, balance problems, learning difficulties, dyslexia, and hyperactivity. Crystal and gem therapy: Practitioners use quartz crystals and gemstones for therapeutic and healing purposes, asserting that the substances have recognizable energy frequencies and the capacity to amplify other frequencies in the body. They also absorb and store frequencies, and can essentially be programmed to help affect healing. Dance/movement therapy: A method of expressing thoughts and feelings through movement, developed during the 1940s. Participants, guided by trained therapists, are encouraged to move freely, sometimes to music. Dance/movement therapy can be practiced by people of all ages to promote self-esteem and gain insight into their own emotional problems; it is also used to help those with serious mental and physical disabilities. Decluttering: Based on the theory that clutter drains both physical and mental energy, decluttering involves two components. The first focuses on releasing things (clothing, papers, furniture, objects and ideas) that no longer serve a good purpose in one’s life. The second focuses on creating a simple system of personal organization that is easy to maintain and guards against accumulating things that are neither necessary nor nourishing.

Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT): A self-help procedure founded by Gary Craig that combines fingertip tapping of key acupuncture meridian points while focusing on an emotional issue or health challenge. Unresolved or “stuck” negative emotions, caused by a disruption in the body’s energy system, are seen as major contributors to most physical pains and diseases. EFT is easy to memorize and portable, so it can be done anywhere. Energy field work: The art and practice of realigning and re-attuning the body between the physical, and the etheric and auric fields to assist in natural healing processes. Working directly with the energy field in and around the body, the practitioner channels and directs energy into the cells, tissues and organs of the patient’s body to affect healing on physical and nonphysical levels simultaneously. Sessions may or may not involve the physical laying on of hands. Environmental medicine: Explores the role of dietary and environmental allergens in health and illness. Factors such as dust, mold, chemicals and certain foods may cause allergic reactions that can dramatically influence diseases, ranging from asthma and hay fever to headaches and depression. Enzyme therapy: Can be an important first step in restoring health and well-being by helping to remedy digestive problems. Plant and pancreatic enzymes are used in complementary ways to improve digestion and absorption of essential nutrients. Treatment includes enzyme supplements, coupled with a healthy diet that features whole foods. Essential Oils: Inside many plants—hidden in roots, seeds, flowers, bark—are concentrated, highly potent chemical compounds. These natural compounds are essential oils. Essential oils give a plant its scent, protect it from hazardous environmental conditions, and even assist it with pollination, among other important functions and benefits. Pure essential oils offer an alternative to synthetic products. Essential oils are more than just natural products. Each with a unique chemical makeup, essential oils have dozens of benefits for the body and mind. Essential oil benefits are determined by the chemistry of the plants. If these natural chemicals are properly extracted, they can be used to help you physically, mentally, and emotionally in your daily life.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

LIPHE BALANCE CENTER

Barbara Slaine Weston 203-912-2791 • LipheBalance@gmail.com LipheBalance.com Barbara Slaine is the founder of the Liphe Balance Center, a community gathering space dedicated to bringing talks, travels and a gathering space committed to holding space for teachings and knowledge to empower and nourish the mind, body and soul for optimal healing, transformation and freedom. Barbara is a holistic nutritionist, end-of-life doula and educator, Reiki master and family counselor.

CHIROPRACTIC PETER BRAGLIA, DC

True Health Family Chiropractic 7365 Main St, Stratford 203-923-8633 • TrueHealthCT.com As a member of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association, Dr. Braglia has received advanced training in Pediatric Adjusting and Prenatal Care, including the Webster Technique. We are proud to serve patients from all over Fairfield and New Haven Counties with our unique and gentle approach to health care. See ad, page 72.

CORSELLO CLINIC OF CHIROPRACTIC

Edward C. Corsello, DC, BCAO 2021 Main St, Stratford 203-381-1800 • Contact@CorselloClinic.com CorselloClinic.com Our mission is to build healthy families for a lifetime of wellness in a loving and compassionate setting. We offer specialized techniques, including Atlas Orthogonal (AO), EPIC, integrative brain therapies and spinal correction, as well as nutrition, cellular detoxification and weight loss. See ad, page 3.

UNIVERSITY OF BRIDGEPORT UB CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC

60 Lafayette St, Bridgeport 203-576-4349 •Bridgeport.edu/UBClinics We offer a conservative, drugless, non-surgical approach to healthcare, treating a wide range of conditions/injuries (involving interactions between nerves, muscles and the skeleton), including wellness, preventive, and health education services. Care is provided by student interns under the supervision of well-qualified licensed chiropractic physicians. See ad, page 4.

COACHING VICTORIA SHAW, PHD

Office in Westport 203-254-3403 VictoriaShawIntuitive.com Drawing on both her intuitive abilities and training in psychology/counseling, Victoria can help you rediscover your life’s purpose, restore hope and improve the quality of life. Common issues include life transitions, health and wellness, relationships, parenting, monetary and career issues, decision-making, self-improvement and intuition development. See ad, page 24.

COLONICS COLONICS

914-921-LIFE (5433) LifelineHygienics.com Experience and personalized service you can trust. The finest in colonic irrigation and personal care. Serving the tri-state area since 1993.

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY BETHANY BODY WORKS Jennifer Kriz, LMT #004996 Craniosacral Therapist 203-393-1500 Visit BBW on Facebook BethanyBodyWorksCT.com

CranioSacral Therapy is a powerful, yet gentle, non-invasive therapy that balances and realigns the body to relieve pain and dysfunction and improve whole-body health and performance. Effective for all ages from newborns to elders; great for migraines, sciatica and more.

THREE TREASURES HEALING Sarah Beth

Mill Pond Village 213 East Putnam Ave, Ste 5, Greenwich 203-246-7048 • 3Treasures-Healing.com Gentle and non-invasive, CranioSacral Therapy (CST) can be effective in helping neurological problems, traumatic brain/spinal cord injuries, herniated discs, migraines, coordination difficulties, stroke and more. Safe and effective for babies with digestive difficulties, breastfeeding problems, chronic ear infections or sensory issues.

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY/ ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE VINCENT FRASER, CST, CAT, SEP

Craniosacral Therapy, Alexander Technique, Somatic Experiencing Greenwich and Norwalk 203-570-2059 • Vincent@VincentFraser.com Vincent offers paths to wholeness which lead to resolving pain and trauma, ease of movement in one’s body and life, and a fuller conscious embodiment.

CRANIAL STRUCTURAL MELISA C. KIMBALL

Structural Balance & Nutrition Offices in Brookfield and Westport 203-733-2258 Melisa@YourStructuralBalance.com Structural Energetic Therapy (SET) helps resolve the energetic and structural imbalances caused by daily life. It helps people in acute and chronic pain rehabilitate back into balance. Combines kinesiology and muscle testing, postural analysis, cranial structural techniques, directed myofascial unwinding, emotional energy release, acupressure, scar tissue and adhesion release, deep tissue therapy and other therapeutic bodywork techniques.

DENTAL HYGIENE UNIVERSITY OF BRIDGEPORT FONES DENTAL HYGIENE CLINIC

60 Lafayette St, Bridgeport 203-576-4137 • Bridgeport.edu/UBClinics We assist patients in eliminating and preventing oral disease. Services include oral examinations, personalized home care instruction, blood pressure screening, X-rays, teeth cleaning, sealants, fluoride treatments, whitening agents and referral. Care is provided by student interns under the supervision of licensed dental hygienists and dentists. See ad, page 4.

EDUCATION THE GRADUATE INSTITUTE 171 Amity Rd, Bethany 203-874-4252 Info@Learn.edu • Learn.edu

The Graduate Institute is a state-accredited graduate school dedicated to promoting an integrative and holistic worldview through the study of health, wellness, education, and personal and professional transformation. Enrolling now for 2020 programs. See ad, page 35.

INSTITUTE FOR HOLISTIC HEALTH STUDIES

Western Connecticut State University Christel Autuori, RDH, RYT, MA, Director 181 White St, Danbury 203-837-8559 • WCSU.edu/IHHS The mission of the IHHS is to provide the University and Greater Danbury area with an opportunity to engage in and explore different aspects of holistic and integrative health through programming and instruction. Programs include Wellness Wednesday lunchtime workshops, monthly meditation program, lecture series, health wellness and fitness fair.

THE INSTITUTE OF SUSTAINABLE NUTRITION 113 Simsbury Rd, West Granby 860-764-9070 Joan@TIOSN.com • TIOSN.com

We offer a unique certification program blending the science of nutrition with the hands-on components of sustainable gardening practices. We use food and herbs to make kitchen medicine, teach basic culinary skills, and practice foraging for and using nutrient-rich wild food. Now enrolling. See ad, page 81.

DEANA PAQUA, MA, LMT Embody the Sacred® Ridgefield and New Milford Deana.Paqua@gmail.com EmbodyTheSacred.net

Offering classes, training programs, healing sessions and mentoring in cross-cultural energy medicine and contemporary shamanism for healers, spiritual seekers and the energy sensitive. Learn self-healing, self-empowerment and trauma transformation through the sacred. See ad, page 26.

TWO COYOTES WILDERNESS SCHOOL

P.O. Box 711, Monroe TwoCoyotes.org Facebook.com/TwoCoyotes Instagram.com/TwoCoyotes Two Coyotes Wilderness School is a non-profit nature organization dedicated to creating a healthier, more connected future by connecting people to nature, community, and their personal empowerment. We offer year-round wilderness-based mentorship programs, including summer camps, for all ages. See ad, page 12.

Natural Living Directory 2020

natural living glossary

Intuitive Reader, Energy Healer, Women's Empowerment Coach 203-725-7884 RoseGoldHealing@gmail.com @alexarosegoldhealing Alexa is an intuitive healer who connects with the Divine to help clients find clarity and move stagnant energy. Individual and group sessions available. Appointments are held at her office in Brookfield or virtually through email and video calls.

Feng shui: The ancient Chinese system of arranging man-made spaces and elements to create or facilitate harmonious qi or chi (pronounced “chee”)—or energy flow—by tempering or enhancing the energy where necessary. Feng shui consultants can be an asset to both personal and business spaces, either before or after the spaces are created.

BETH LEAS

Transformative Healing • Tarot 203-856-9566 BethLeas.comTLCTarot.com If not now, when? Inspire change on all levels—greater physical ease, emotional freedom, peace of mind and spiritual connection. 20 years of intuitive healing experience with adults and children of all ages. Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tarot. See ad, page 39.

SOUL HEALING JOURNEY, LLC

Functional medicine: A personalized medicine that focuses on primary prevention and deals with underlying causes, instead of symptoms, for serious chronic diseases. Treatments are grounded in nutrition and improved lifestyle habits and may make use of medications. The discipline uses a holistic approach to analyze and treat interdependent systems of the body and to create the dynamic balance integral to good health. Guided imagery and creative visualization: Uses positive thoughts, images and symbols to focus the mind on the workings of the body to accomplish a particular goal, desired outcome or physiological change, such as pain relief or healing of disease. This flow of thought can take many forms and, through the imagination, involve all the physical senses. Healing touch: A non-invasive, relaxing and nurturing energy therapy that helps to restore physical, emotional, mental and spiritual balance, and support self-healing. A gentle touch is used on or near the fully clothed client to influence the body’s inner energy centers and exterior energy fields. Healing touch is used to ease acute and chronic conditions, assist with pain management, encourage deep relaxation and accelerate wound healing. Herbal medicine: This oldest form of medicine uses natural plants in a wide variety of forms for their therapeutic value. Herbs produce and contain various chemical substances that act upon the body to strengthen its natural functions without the negative side effects of synthetic drugs. They may be taken internally or applied externally via teas, tinctures, extracts, oils, ointments, compresses and poultices.

Eilis Philpott Fairfield • 203-767-5954 Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com SoulHealingJourney.com

Eilis is a master healer and teacher and certified in numerous modalities as both a practitioner and teacher. She offers soul level healing, which clears any blocks, obstacles and challenges that are preventing you from living your life to its fullest potential. See ad, page 82.

SOUL LIGHT HEALING 8

Judy Gomez Integrated Healings & Intuitive Readings Bridgeport 203-366-1712 • Judy@SoulLightHealing8.com Judy is a Usui Reiki master for over 40 years, and certified in numerous modalities. Judy does distance healing using 13th Octave LaHoChi transformational healing energy to re-balance your body, mind and spirit. Judy also does intuitive readings, and spiritual solar returns, which are done on your birthday. She also does individual, home, business, property and ancestral clearings.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Certified Essential Oil Educator 203-856-1790 JenniferBlake2@yahoo.com my.doterra.com/JenniferBlake2 I sell doTERRA essential oils and teach practitioners how to implement high quality oils into their practice to enhance client experience. I also work with individuals who seek to reduce toxicity load and support their overall health and wellness naturally.

WAYNE LEISS, LMT

20 Fifth Ave, Apt A, Danbury 203-994-1207 Wayne@WayneLeiss.com WayneLeiss.com YN

ELE

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Flower remedies: Flower essences are recognized for their ability to improve well-being by eliminating negative emotions. In the 1930s, English physician Edward Bach concluded that negative emotions could lead to physical illness. His research also convinced him that flowers possessed healing properties that could be used to treat emotional problems. In the 1970s, Richard Katz completed Bach’s work and established the Flower Essence Society, which has registered some 100 essences from flowers in more than 50 countries.

JENNIFER BLAKE

ALEXA ROSE GOLD HEALING

ESSENTIAL OILS

Feldenkrais method: Helps students straighten out what founder Moshe Feldenkrais calls, “kinks in the brain.” Kinks are learned movement patterns that may have been adopted to compensate for a physical injury or to accommodate individuality in the social world. Students unlearn unworkable movements and discover better, personalized ways to move, using mind-body principles of slowed action, breathing, awareness and thinking about their feelings.

ENERGY HEALING

Centering our lives through touch. Essential oils address

stress reduction, pain relief and overall well-being. They are used in topical, internal CENTERING OUR LIVES and aeromatic applications. THROUGH TOUCH Improve physically, emotionally and spiritually as I teach you about the benefits and uses of massage with natural and pure dōTERRA Essential Oils. See ad, page 39.

FENG SHUI FENG SHUI JOAN’S WAY Joan Law 203-260-7770 FengShuiJoansWay.com

Joan has over 20 years of experience creating environments that support her client’s life goals. Offering feng shui, clutter clearing and home staging services, bringing together the knowledge of this ancient art and experience with hundreds of clients combined with a strong intuition.

GRAVITY BODYWORK MASSAGE THERAPY

3010 Fairfield Ave, Bridgeport 203-292-0460 • KerstinSanta.com FB/INSTA @GravityBodywork Located in the heart of historic Black Rock, Gravity Bodywork is the home of a handful of the best bodyworkers in the area, featuring world-class somatic therapies to heal body and mind. We offer deep bodywork, Thai, hot stone and other modalities. This is more than just massage, this is deep self-care! Please reach out to discuss the best treatment for you.

GREEN HOUSES FOR SALE ROCKY CORNER COHOUSING 203-903-2646 Homes@RockyCorner.org RockyCorner.org

Rocky Corner’s sharing and caring neighborhood: Meet friendly, creative people. Feel welcomed and included. Eat from our organic farm and gardens. Own a green home. Co-own amazing common buildings and 33 acres. Bethany, 5 miles north of New Haven. Nurture kids, retire, have fun, work together. Last remaining homes for sale. Contact us now!

HEALING ACID REFLUX HEALING ACID REFLUX NATURALLY Susan Berman, Med, CHHC 860-670-4152 Susan@HealingAcidReflux.com HealingAcidReflux.com

I work with health conscious individuals to help heal their acid reflux or GERD to avoid further damage and prevent esophageal cancer. Find your unique food and lifestyle triggers. Offers 1:1 coaching via Zoom, Skype, or a DIY program.

HEALTHY EATING CHEF ELIANA GRUBEL, CHC Licensed and Insured In-home Cooking Services 203-559-8946 CleanFood4UrType.com

As a Board-Certified Health Coach by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners and member of the U.S. Personal Chef Association, Eliana’s passion is her clients’ success. She has been serving CT for more than 15 years and now offers short-term detoxes, meals to freeze, dinner parties, homegrown microgreens and fermented, locally grown vegetables as well as personalized coaching programs. See ad, page 17.

HIKING

HOLISTIC PSYCHIATRY

NEW YORK-NEW JERSEY TRAIL CONFERENCE

DAVID LONDON, MD

Since 1920, the Trail Conference has been building, maintaining and protecting what is now more than 2,100 miles of trails in the NY-NJ metropolitan area. Thanks to the dedication of volunteers and supporters, we all can have safe and enjoyable outdoor experiences. To find hikes and events, volunteer, become a member or donate, go to NYNJTC.org. See ad, page 37.

David London, MD, honors emotional, spiritual and biochemical individuality to assist healing psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. Sophisticated genetic and lab testing help identify underlying causes. Treatment may include acupuncture, psychotherapy, EMDR, herbs, vitamins, nutrients, lifestyle changes, medication.

600 Ramapo Valley Road, Mahwah, NJ 201-512-9348 Office@ NYNJTC.org • NYNJTC.org

HOLISTIC DENTIST WHOLE BODY DENTISTRY

Mark A Breiner, DDS 501 Kings Hwy East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-0300 WholeBodyDentistry.com Mark Breiner, DDS, is a pioneer and recognized authority in the field of holistic dentistry. His patients have found solutions to baffling, unresolved and seemingly unrelated dentalrelated health problems. He is the author of the award-winning book, Whole-Body Dentistry. See ad, page 2.

HOLISTIC HEALTH MICHAEL WALD, DC, DIETICIAN, BOARD CERTIFIED 20 Sunderland Ln, Katonah, NY 914-552-1442 Info@BloodDetective.com

Do you suﬀer from chronic health problems like cancer, autoimmune, GI or neurological issues? You need a Blood Detective! Dr. Wald will work with you personally over the phone, as a house call or at his Katonah oﬃce. Call today, you deserve personal attention. See ad, page 9.

544 Riverside Ave, Westport 203-557-6574 Contact@DavidLondonMD.com DavidLondonMD.com

HYPNOSIS HEALING TREE WISDOM

Thea Litsios, CHy Locations in Norwalk and Stratford 203-693-1493 • HealingTreeWisdom.com Use the power of your whole mind to transform your life: Hypnosis for weight loss, smoking cessation, stress relief, and past life review. Certified teacher of Active Dream work. Individual dream consultations available, as well as workshops and monthly Dream Groups. See ad, page 39.

MIND-BODY TRANSFORMATION Diane Bahr-Groth, CHy, TFTdx 1177 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-595-0110 MindBodyTransformation.com

Fast, effective methods for weight, stress, fear, pain, smoking, etc. Certified Hypnotherapist, Thought Field Therapy, Time Line Therapy, NLP and Complementary Medical Hypnosis, since 1989. See ads, pages 23 and 77.

INTEGRATED ENERGY THERAPY (IET) THREE TREASURES HEALING

Sarah Beth Mill Pond Village 213 East Putnam Ave, Ste 5, Greenwich 203-246-7048 • 3Treasures-Healing.com A safe, gentle and nurturing way to empower and balance your life by releasing patterns of the past, using a unique cellular memory map to target areas in the body where cellular memories are stored. Powerful yet gentle support for childhood traumas such as physical and sexual abuse, alcoholic and dysfunctional family patterns.

Natural Living Directory 2020

natural living glossary Homeopathy: A therapy that uses small doses of specially prepared plants and minerals to stimulate the body’s defense mechanisms and healing processes in order to cure illness. Homeopathy, taken from the Greek words homeos, meaning “similar”, and pathos, meaning “suffering”, employs the concept that “like cures like”. A remedy is individually chosen for a person based on its capacity to cause, if given in an overdose, physical and psychological symptoms similar to those the patient is experiencing. Hydrotherapy: The use of water, ice, steam, and hot and cold temperatures to maintain and restore health. Treatments include full-body immersion, steam baths, saunas, sitz baths, colonic irrigation, and the application of hot and/or cold compresses. Hydrotherapy is effective for treating a wide range of conditions and can easily be used at home as part of a self-care program. Hypnotherapy: A range of hypnosis techniques that allow practitioners to bypass the conscious mind and access the subconscious. The altered state that occurs under hypnosis has been compared to a state of deep meditation or transcendence, in which the innate recuperative abilities of the psyche are allowed to flow more freely. The subject can achieve greater clarity regarding his or her own wants and needs, explore other events or periods of life that require resolution, or generally develop a more positive attitude. Integrative medicine: This holistic approach combines conventional Western medicine with complementary alternative treatments in order to simultaneously treat mind, body and spirit. Geared to the promotion of health and the prevention of illness, it neither rejects conventional medicine nor accepts alternative therapies, without serious evaluation. Intuitive arts: A general term for various methods of divination, such as numerology, psychic reading and tarot reading. Individuals may consult practitioners to seek information about the future or insights into personal concerns or their personality. Numerology emphasizes the significance of numbers derived from the spelling of names, birth dates and other significant references; psychics may claim various abilities, from finding lost objects and persons to communicating with the spirits of the dead. Tarot readers interpret a deck of cards containing archetypal symbols. Iridology: Analysis of the delicate structure of the iris, the colored portion of the eye, to reveal information about conditions within the body. More than 90 specific zones on each iris—for a combined total of more than 180 zones—correspond to specific areas of the body. Because body weaknesses are often noticeable in the iris long before they are discernible through blood work or other laboratory analysis, iridology can be a useful tool for preventive self-care. Jin Shin (or Jin Shin Jyutsu): A gentle, non-invasive, energy-balancing art and philosophy that embodies a life of simplicity, calmness, patience and self-containment. Practitioners employ simple acupressure techniques, using their fingers and hands on a fully clothed client to help eliminate stress, create emotional equilibrium, relieve pain, and alleviate acute or chronic conditions. Kinesiology/applied kinesiology: The study of muscles and their movement. Applied kinesiology tests the relative strength and weakness of selected muscles to identify decreased function in body organs and systems, as well as imbalances and restrictions in the body’s energy flow. Some tests use acupuncture meridians and others analyze interrelationships among muscles, organs, the brain and the body’s energy field. Applied kinesiology is also used to check the body’s response to treatments that are being considered.

Magnetic field therapy: Electromagnetic energy and the human body have a vital and valid interrelationship, making it possible to use magnetic field therapy as an aid in diagnosing and treating physical and emotional disorders. This process is reported to relieve symptoms and may, in some cases, retard the cycle of new diseases. Magnets and electromagnetic therapy devices are now being used to eliminate pain, facilitate the healing of broken bones and counter the effects of stress. Massage therapy: A general term for the manipulation of soft tissue for therapeutic purposes. Massage therapy incorporates various disciplines and involves kneading, rubbing, brushing and tapping the muscles and connective tissues by hand or using mechanical devices. Its goal is to increase circulation and detoxification in order to reduce physical and emotional stress and increase overall wellness. Meditation: The intentional directing of attention to one’s inner self. Methods and practices to achieve a meditative state are based upon various principles using the body or mind; they may also employ control or letting-go mechanisms. Techniques include the use of imagery, mantras, observation and the control of breathing. Research has shown that regular meditation can contribute to psychological and physiological well-being. As a spiritual practice, meditation is used to facilitate a mystical sense of oneness with a higher power or the Universe. It can also help reduce stress and alleviate stress-related ailments, such as anxiety and high blood pressure. Mediumship: A medium professes to mentally see, hear and/or sense persons or entities in a spiritual dimension, and convey messages from them to people in the physical world. Readings focus on evidential messages from recognizable personalities in the spirit world. The messages are delivered as guidance for one’s “highest good”.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PHYSICIAN HENRY C. SOBO, MD

Optimal Health Medical LLC 111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-348-8805 • DrSobo.com Advances in Regenerative Medicine allow Dr. Sobo to offer cutting-edge technologies such as PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) treatments and adult stem cell therapy. Dr. Sobo’s integrative approach addresses a variety of conditions such as: food allergies, Alzheimer’s/ dementia, chronic fatigue syndrome, weight loss, hormonal health, fibromyalgia, anti-aging medicine, and MTHFR-Genetic Mutation. See ad, page 75.

INTEGRATIVE NATURAL MEDICINE SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER Ken Hoffman, DACM, LAc, Medical Director 31 Old Rte 7, Brookfield 203-740-9300 • INM.Center

Using naturopathic and Chinese medical principles, we get to the source of your health concerns. Diagnostic methods include functional testing such as advanced bloodwork analysis, cardiovascular testing, hormone evaluation and thermography. Our customized treatment program includes acupuncture, herbal and nutritional medicine, diet and lifestyle counseling and more. Most insurance accepted.

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE LLC

Adam Breiner, ND, Director David Brady, ND, CCN, DACBN David Johnston, DO Elena Sokolova, MD, ND 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com Midwife: A birth attendant who assists a woman through the prenatal, labor, birth and postpartum stages of pregnancy. The mother is encouraged to be involved and to feel in control of her birthing experience. Midwives are knowledgeable about normal pregnancy, labor, birth and pain relief options. They respect the process of birth as an innate and familiar process. Certified nurse-midwives are registered nurses who have received advanced training and passed a national certification exam. Nurse-midwives collaborate with physicians as needed, especially when problems arise during pregnancy. (Also see Doula.) Naturopathy: A comprehensive and eclectic system whose philosophy is based upon working in harmony with the body’s natural healing abilities. Naturopathy incorporates a broad range of natural methods and substances aimed to promote health. Training may include the study of specific approaches, including massage, manipulation, acupuncture, acupressure, counseling, applied nutrition, herbal medicine, homeopathy and minor surgery, plus basic obstetrics for assistance with natural childbirth.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Using state-of-the-art science combined with holistic medicine, our caring integrative physicians correct underlying imbalances and address issues which may interfere with the body’s ability to heal itself. We treat many conditions including Lyme disease, fibromyalgia, immune disorders, allergies, thyroid conditions, pain, neurological conditions, stroke, concussion, ADD/ ADHD, depression, insomnia and more. We offer hyperbaric oxygen, neurofeedback and neurotherapies, osteopathic medicine, functional medicine, IV nutrient and chelation therapy, energetic medicine, homeopathy, Japanese Reiki, nutrition, colonics and detoxification, enhanced brain, athletic, scholastic performance, and more. See ad, page 2.

INTEGRATIVE OPTOMETRY EYECARE ASSOCIATES, PC

Dr. Randy Schulman, MS, OD, FCOVD Locations: 6515 Main St, Trumbull • 203-374-2020 444 Westport Ave, Norwalk • 203-840-1991 2600 Post Rd, Southport • 203-255-4005 1425 Bedford St, 1M, Stamford • 203-357-0204 CTEyeCareAssociates.com We offer behavioral optometry, comprehensive vision exams, contact lenses and vision therapy. See ad, page 11.

INTUITIVE ARTS JOAN CARRA

Psychic Medium 203-531-6387 • PsychicJoan@yahoo.com PsychicJoanCarra.net Joan’s reputation as a psychic and medium for over 20 years is supported by seven books that recommend her work. Her insights can help you release blocks in business and romance. As a gifted medium, Joan can contact loved ones in spirit and help heal your grief.

STACEY DECEA, LLC

Stacey Decea, CSW Evidential Psychic Medium 914-588-6196 • Stacey@StaceyDecea.com StaceyDecea.com Stacey is a practitioner at Turning Point Healing Arts & Education Center in Ridgefield. She is offering psychic and mediumship readings as well as small group events. She also offers an online mentorship program for those eager to develop their own mediumistic abilities. See ad, page 10.

IV THERAPY WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE LLC

501 Kings Highway E, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com IV nutrient therapy bypasses the digestive process and delivers 100% of pure quality nutrients to your cells. Custom drips support your immune system, help you recover from long work hours, hangovers, jet lag, and increase stamina, support muscle recovery and growth, aid in detoxification, provide anti-aging benefits for youthful skin and glow, promote weight loss, help brain function, provide an energy boost and more. See ad, page 2.

LYME DISEASE MARVIN P. SCHWEITZER, ND

Wellness Institute 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203-847-2788 • DrMarvinSchweitzer.com We help you unleash your own body’s ability to heal. Cutting edge evaluations and 25+ years experience help to determine precisely which individualized therapies – including energy medicine, oxygen therapies, homeopathy, botanicals, nutrition, allergy/toxin testing and treatment are used to nourish, cleanse, balance and repair. We collaborate with you in a caring environment. See ad, page 21.

LASER SKIN CARE HILDA DEMIRJIAN LASER AND SKIN CARE CENTER 34 South Broadway, Ste 607 White Plains, NY 914-374-1756 HildaDemirjianLaser.com

Since 1974, Hilda Demirjian has been a leader in the use of laser collagen treatments for better, younger looking skin. Effective on the face, neck and body for fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, discoloration, scars, cellulite, rosacea, stretch marks, skin tightening and turkey neck. Non-invasive, fast treatments with no downtime. Call today for your confidential free consultation. See ad, page 5.

LYME & CO-INFECTIONS ANDREA CANDEE, MH, MSC 914-763-8889 AndreaCandee.com

LYME DISEASE EDUCATION/SUPPORT LYME CONNECTION

400 Main St, Ridgefield Info@LymeConnection.org LymeConnection.org Lyme Connection is an all-volunteer, community-based task force providing support and resources to patients and their families coping with tickborne disease. See ad, page 13.

MASSAGE AND BODYWORK JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER

2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 • JiivaCenter.com We offer Traditional, Thai Massage and Prenatal massage. At Jiiva Massage, our goal is to provide our clients with a variety of experienced therapists and modalities to choose from. Our hope is to provide you with an assortment of different techniques so you can find what works best for your individual needs. See ad, page 29.

30+ years holistic health practice successfully addressing Lyme/PANDAS. Antibiotic-resistant viruses cause chronic Lyme (brain fog, nerve INTUITIVE CONSULTANT disorders, headaches, joint/ muscle pain, fatigue). Neurological strep affects children and adults causing tics, VICTORIA SHAW, PHD MEDICAL DOCTOR anxiety, OCD and more. Quantum physics and Office in Westport 21st-century science targets/cancels pathogenic 203-254-3403 VICKI SARA BLUMBERG, MD frequencies from the body. Protocols are VictoriaShawIntuitive.com 105 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield “I believe the body heals itself with sound advice, three-pronged: vibrational frequencies, herbs and 203-431-9726 Drawing on both her intuitive listening with love, and proper self-care.” food guidance. abilities and training in Board-certified in Internal MediSpecializing in psychology/counseling, Victoria cine, Dr. Blumberg promotes • Low Dose Immunotherapy (LDA/LDI) can help you rediscover your • Second Opinion/Consultation for Chronic Medical Illness healing via a healthy immune life’s purpose, restore hope and• Treatment for Opiate Use Disorder and Post-acute system. She practices low-dose improve the quality of life. Withdrawal in conjunction with Insight Counseling immunotherapy for allergies, Readings are always heart-cen-• Medical Marijuana certification for appropriate patients chronic diseases, autoimmune tered and life-affirming. Common issues include with qualifying diagnoses. and Lyme. She treats opioid life transitions, health and wellness, relationships, addiction with medical-assisted treatment. For 158 Danbury Rd. Suite 3 • Ridgefield, CT 06877 • 203-403-3907 parenting, monetary and career issues, decieligible patients, she will provide certification for sion-making, self-improvement and intuition medicinal marijuana. See ad, page 15. development. See ad, page 24.

Vicki Sara Blumberg, m.D.

Natural Living Directory 2020

natural living glossary Network chiropractic: Uses Network Spinal Analysis (NSA), a system of assessing and contributing to spinal and neural integrity, as well as health and wellness. Founded and developed by Donald Epstein. Practitioners employ gentle force to the spine to help the body eliminate mechanical tension in the neurological system. The body naturally develops strategies to dissipate stored tension/energy, thus enhancing self-regulation of tension and spinal interference. (Also see Chiropractic.) Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP): A systematic approach to changing the limiting patterns of thought, behavior and language. Through conversation, practitioners observe the client’s language, eye movements, posture, breathing and gestures in order to detect and help change unconscious patterns linked to the client’s emotional state. Nutritional counseling: Embracing a wider range of approaches, nutrition-based, complementary therapies and counseling to seek to alleviate physical and psychological disorders through special diets and food supplements. These will be either macronutrients (carbohydrates, fats, proteins and fiber) or micronutrients (vitamins, minerals and trace elements that cannot be manufactured in the body). Nutritional therapy/counseling often uses dietary or food supplements, which can include tablets, capsules, powders or liquids. Osteopathy/osteopathic physicians: Uses generally accepted physical, pharmacological and surgical methods of diagnosis and therapy—with a strong emphasis on body mechanics and manipulative methods to detect and correct faulty structure and function—in order to restore the body’s natural healing capacities. Doctors of osteopathy are fully trained and licensed according to the same standards as medical doctors; they receive additional extensive training in the body’s structure and functions. Oxygen therapies: Alters the body’s chemistry to help overcome disease, promote repair and improve overall function. Properly applied, oxygen may be used to treat a wide variety of conditions, including infections, circulatory problems, chronic fatigue syndrome, arthritis, allergies, cancer and multiple sclerosis. The major types of oxygen therapy used to treat illness are hyperbaric oxygen and ozone. Hydrogen peroxide therapy (oral or intravenous) can be dangerous and should be avoided.

MEDICAL QIGONG THREE TREASURES HEALING

THE ANGEL COOPERATIVE

Sarah Beth Mill Pond Village 213 East Putnam Ave, Ste 5, Greenwich 203-246-7048 • 3Treasures-Healing.com

51 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte. 7), Ridgefield 203-431-2959 • TheAngelCoop.com Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube

Oldest of the four branches of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), medical qigong is an ancient and effective form of energetic medicine. The goal is to harmonize and balance our mind, body and spirit. Sessions may be held in person or remotely.

The Angel Cooperative is a unique lifestyle boutique featuring the first and only Shungite room in the USA. Wide selection of crystals, jewelry, candles, essential oils and soaps. Spiritual gifts, statuary, oracle decks and tarot and home décor. Available in The Shungite Room: readings, Reiki, meditation, sound therapy, energy work and workshops. See ad, page 23.

MEDITATION CENTER FOR MINDFULNESS & INSIGHT MEDITATION

9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding 203-244-3130 • ReddingMeditation.org We teach and practice Mahasati meditation. Mahasati meditation cultivates self-awareness through attention to the movement of the body and, at more advanced levels, to the movement of the mind. No prior meditating experience is necessary. Ongoing weekly meditation classes, retreats and events. Please check monthly event calendar or visit ReddingMeditation.org for updated information.

METABOLIC OPTIMIZATION MARVIN P. SCHWEITZER, ND

Past Life Regression: Past life and regression therapies operate on the assumption that many physical, mental and emotional challenges are extensions of unresolved problems from the past, either childhood traumas or experiences in previous lifetimes. The practitioner uses hypnosis or other altered states of consciousness and relaxation techniques to access the source of this “unfinished business”, and helps clients to analyze, integrate and release past traumas that are interfering with their current lives.

METAPHYSICAL STORE

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

THE RUBY TREE

Metaphysical Shop and Healing Space Woodbury 203-586-1655 • TheRubyTreeCT.com An energetically inviting space in the historic town of Woodbury, CT. Daily readings, metaphysical supplies, crystals, gifts, jewelry, blessed candles, incense; Reiki healing and classes, reflexology, cranial sacral therapy, massage, Ideal Protein clinic, workshops and more! Check us out on Facebook and Instagram.

NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE UNIVERSITY OF BRIDGEPORT UB NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE CLINIC

60 Lafayette St, Bridgeport 203-576-4349 • Bridgeport.edu/UBClinics We offer team-based medical care focused on patient education and the use of natural and preventive diagnostics and therapeutics to treat common health issues, specializing in disease prevention and chronic illnesses. Care is provided by student interns under the supervision of licensed naturopathic medicine doctors. See ad, page 4.

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Call for more info. 203-885-4674 eNaturalAwakenings.com

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN ADAM BREINER, ND

Whole-Body Medicine LLC 501 Kings Hwy E, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com Dr. Adam Breiner has helped patients with a wide variety of neurological conditions—including stroke, concussions, TBIs, ADD/ADHD, depression and anxiety—as well as seeing patients for enhanced sports, scholastic and workplace performance. His center was the first facility in the country to offer the powerful combination of hyperbaric oxygen therapy and neurofeedback. Dr. Breiner also has natural and cutting-edge approaches for the treatment of Lyme disease. See ad, page 2.

NEERU KAUSHIK, ND, MS ACU, MS, MA Institute for Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Therapies 805 Kings Highway East, Fairfield 203-331-9111 DrKaushik@AyurvedicInstituteCT.com

SHALVA CLINIC LLC

Ellen M Lewis, ND, Director 8 Lincoln St, Westport 203-916-4600 • ShalvaClinic.org Dr. Lewis offers comprehensive holistic care for women including well-women exams, fertility, thyroid and menopause support. She also has a special interest in pediatrics and utilizes a variety of natural modalities when working with patients with ADD/ADHD, autism, allergies, eczema and asthma. Treatments include herbal medicine, functional medicine, biotherapeutic drainage, homeopathy and more. See ad, back cover.

NATURAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER

Lisa Singley, ND, MS 2103 Main St, Ste 2, Stratford 203-874-4333 Info@NHAWC.com • NHAWC.com We use advanced diagnostic testing with safe, effective, all-natural healing modalities and treatment options to treat acute and chronic conditions; restore balance; and treat the mind, body and spirit. Specialists in endocrine disorders, digestive issues, pain management and chronic fatigue. We offer comprehensive solutions to prevent illness and maintain optimal health for body, mind and spirit. See ad, page 18.

MARVIN P. SCHWEITZER, ND

VEENA VERMA-DZIK, ND, FIAMA

FairfieldNaturopathicHealth.com Insight Counseling, Ridgefield 203-431-9726 InsightCounselingllc.com Office of Steven Phillips, MD, Wilton 203-544-0005 • StevenPhillipsmd.com Dr. Verma CMYK is a naturopathic 1, 99, 1, 0 physician working with Dr. Steven Phillips in Wilton and Insight Counseling in RidgeCMYK 79, 0, specialties 0 field. 58, Her include tick-borne diseases, mood imbalances and other chronic illnesses. Protocols Aleo include – Boldacupuncture, CMYK: 72, 66, 65, 79 and other clinically low-dose immunotherapy provenP Rnatural treatments. See ad, page 15. O X I M A N O VA – S E M I B O L D CMYK: 72, 66, 65, 79

NEUROFEEDBACK ADAM BREINER, ND

The NeuroEdge Brain Performance Center Full Color Division of Whole-Body MedicineOne Color 501 Kings Highway E, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 • TheNeuroEdge.com The NeuroEdge is dedicated to keeping your brain sharp and high-functioning. We treat head injuries and brain traumas such as concussion and stroke as well as help athletes, students and businesspeople improve their performance. Learn and view our cutting-edge neurotherapies at TheNeuroEdge.com. See ad, page 2.

ROSEANN CAPANNA-HODGE, EDD, LPC, BCN, LLC

898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield Offices in Ridgefield and Newtown 203-438-4848 Info@DrRoseann.com • DrRoseann.com We work with children, adolescents, teens, adults and families around a variety of issues with non-medication therapies. We provide brainbased treatments like neurofeedback, biofeedback, EFT, hypnosis, meditation, etc. Our staff provides non-judgmental support to help alleviate stress and promote wellness. See ad, page 33.

NON-DENOMINATIONAL CEREMONIES HUMMINGBIRD SOUND YOGA

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares Bucks Rock Rd, New Milford 860-946-9470 BSoares@LightOfTheNewMoon.com HummingbirdSoundYoga.com Facebook @HummingbirdSoundYoga Barbara (Bobbi) Soares, MA, CYT, is a sound yoga and vocal yoga teacher, blues/jazz singer, and Reiki master, certified in several modalities of energy and sound healing. Bobbi’s band Hummingbird and Friends is well known for their eclectic blend of chants, jazz, blues, reggae and country. She has studied vocal improvisation with Bobby McFerrin, vocal yoga with Heather Lyle and sound healing with Silvia Nakkach, John Beaulieu and Don Conreaux. See ad, page 31.

OSTEOPATHIC PHYSICIAN OSTEOPATHIC WELLNESS CENTER David L. Johnston, DO 158 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-438-9915 OsteopathicWellness.net

Dr. Johnston has been providing gentle, holistic, hands-on osteopathic manual treatment and nutrition for more than 20 years. Excellent for newborns, birth trauma, Knockout White concussions, headaches, sports (For Dark Backgrounds) injuries, neck and back pain, digestive issues, brain support, stress, fibromyalgia, detoxification and weight loss. Now offering specialized bloodwork and IV therapy.

Natural Living Directory 2020

natural living glossary Pilates: A structured system of small isolated movements that demands powerful focus on feeling every nuance of muscle action while working out on floor mats or machines. Emphasizes development of the torso’s abdominal power center, or core. More gentle than conventional exercises, Pilates—like yoga—yields long, lean, flexible muscles with gracefully balanced movements that readily translate into everyday activities like walking, sitting and bending. Can help in overcoming injuries.

. expression increases as the body is released from old patterns and postures. Rolfing can help ease pain and chronic stress, enhance neurological functioning, improve posture and restore flexibility. Shamanism: An ancient healing tradition which believes that loss of power is the real source of illness and that all healing includes the spiritual dimension. Shamanic healing usually involves induction into an altered state of consciousness and journeying into the spirit world to regain personal power and to access the powers of nature and of teachers. Shamanic healing may be taken literally or employed symbolically; the tradition can be both self-empowering and self-healing. Shiatsu: The most widely known form of acupressure, shiatsu is a Japanese word meaning finger pressure. The technique applies varying degrees of pressure to balance the life energy that flows through specific pathways, or meridians, in the body. Used to release tension and strengthen weak areas in order to facilitate even circulation, cleanse cells and improve the function of vital organs.

Prolotherapy: A rejuvenating therapy that uses injections of natural substances to stimulate collagen growth in order to strengthen weak or damaged joints, tendons, ligaments or muscles. Often used as a natural alternative to drugs and/or surgery to treat pain syndromes, including degenerative arthritis, lower back, neck and joint pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, migraine headaches, and torn ligaments and cartilage. Qigong and Tai chi: Qigong and tai chi combine movement, meditation and breathe regulation to enhance the flow of vital energy (qi or chi, pronounced “chee”) in the body, improve circulation and enhance immune function. Qigong traces its roots to traditional Chinese medicine. Tai chi was originally a self-defense martial art descended from qigong and employed to promote inner peace and calm. Real Time EEG Neurofeedback: Involves direct training of brain function. Using computer processing to capture electrical activity in the brain, an individual can reward the brain with positive feedback, changing its activity to desired, more appropriate patterns. Gradually, the brain learns and remembers how to exhibit only the good patterns. Reflexology: A natural healing art based upon the principle that there are reflexes in the feet and hands that correspond to every part of the body. Correctly stimulating and applying pressure to the feet or hands increases circulation and promotes specifically designated bodily and muscular functions. Reiki: Means “universal life-force energy”. A method of activating and balancing the life-force (qi or chi, pronounced “chee”). Practitioners use light hand placements to channel healing energies to organs and glands or to align the body’s chakras (energy centers). Various techniques can ease emotional and mental distress, heal chronic and acute physical problems, and achieve spiritual focus and clarity. Reiki can be a valuable addition to the work of chiropractors, massage therapists, nurses and others for whom the use of touch is essential and appropriate. Rolfing structural integration (Rolfing): A hands-on technique for deep tissue manipulation of the myofascial system—which is composed of the muscles and the connective tissue, or fascia—in order to restore the body’s natural alignment and sense of integration. The range and freedom of physical and emotional

Sound healing: Employs vocal and instrumental tones, generated internally or externally. When sounds are produced with healing intent, they can create sympathetic resonance in the physical and energy bodies. Sound healing also is used to bring discordant energy into balance and harmony.

PSYCHOTHERAPY

ROSEANN CAPANNA-HODGE, EDD, LPC, BCN, LLC

898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield Offices in Ridgefield and Newtown 203-438-4848 Info@DrRoseann.com • DrRoseann.com Our highly trained and experienced therapists utilize a variety of brain-based tools and techniques that allow the CNS to calm down so one can address their issues without heightened anxiety. We specialize in pediatrics, parenting and supporting individuals with chronic issues. See ad, page 33.

ROBIN ORDAN, LCSW

Family, Child, Individual and Couples Therapy Old Greenwich/Stamford 203-561-8535 • RobinOrdanLCSW.com Robin has more than 18 years of experience working with families and children. Specializing in divorce, parent/child conflict, grief, attachment/bonding, child development and parenting. See ad, page 17.

NANCY SCHERLONG, LCSW

Coaching/Psychotherapy/Consulting Offices in Danbury and Ridgefield 914-572-3167 WellnessMetaphors.com Symphony of the Cells: 18 essential oil applications developed by Boyd Truman and designed to help anyone bring harmony physically, emotionally, and spiritually within the body. The applications were created with the knowledge that every condition is connected to a body system. Each application takes a focused approach, addressing a specific body system and targeting the underlying causes and symptoms of various conditions. The applications incorporate pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils and utilize a layering technique. Thermography (thermal imaging): A diagnostic technique that uses an infrared camera to measure temperature variations on the surface of the body, producing images that reveal sites of inflammation and abnormal tissue growth. Inflammation is recognized as the earliest stage of nearly all major health challenges. Yoga: Practical application of the ancient Indian Vedic teachings. The word yoga is derived from the Sanskrit root yuj which means “union” or “to join”, and refers to the joining of man’s physical, mental and spiritual elements. Yoga focuses physical exercises called asanas (or postures), controlled breathing, relaxation, meditation, and diet and nutrition. Please note: The contents of this Health & Wellness Glossary are for informational purposes only. The information is not intended to be used in place of a visit or consultation with a healthcare professional. Always seek out a practitioner who is licensed, certified or otherwise professionally qualified to conduct a selected treatment, as appropriate. SOURCES: U.S. Department of Energy, U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Manage stress with relaxation techniques. Rediscover your creativity through writing and the expressive arts. Resolve trauma with EMDR, IFS or SE. Or book an experiential workshop! Nancy has over 20 years of experience with children, families, groups, adults and corporate wellness programs. See ad, page 73.

VICTORIA SHAW, PHD

Intuitive Psychotherapist Office in Westport 203-210-5700 VictoriaShawPsychotherapy.com I combine the best of traditional psychotherapy with intuitive guidance in my work with children, teens and adults. My goal is to connect clients with their own inner source of strength, wisdom and healing. See ad, page 24.

WOLF SPIRIT WELLNESS AND COUNSELING CENTER, LLC Northwood Village, 125 Main St N, Ste 2B Woodbury 203-263-3175 Info@WolfSpiritWellness.org WolfSpiritWellness.org

We offer an integrated approach to mental health counseling for all ages that includes a specialty in trauma and Cluster B personalities. We meet the client where they are in the process and offer psychotherapy as well as alternative modalities such as naturopathy, meditation, yoga and psychopharmacology under one roof. See ad, page 11.

REIKI GIGI BENANTI, USUI REIKI MASTER Angelic Healing Center 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk 203-852-1150 • AngelHealReiki.com

Gigi is an experienced Reiki Master/Teacher. She offers all levels of Reiki training monthly. All classes and Reiki sessions include the latest techniques including Karuna, Angelic and Jikiden Reiki.

EMBODY THE SACRED

Deana Paqua, MA, LMT Ridgefield and New Milford Deana.Paqua@gmail.com EmbodyTheSacred.net Offering classes, training programs, healing sessions and mentoring in cross-cultural energy medicine and contemporary shamanism for healers, spiritual seekers and the energy sensitive. Learn self-healing, self-empowerment and trauma transformation through the sacred. See ad, page 26.

JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER

2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 • JiivaCenter.com Berta Prevosti is a Usui and Karuna Reiki Master and has been practicing Reiki for over 20 years. We also have several experienced Reiki Masters and practitioners. We offer private Reiki sessions for physical and emotional pain. We also have ongoing Reiki classes that are taught in the traditional Usui method by Berta. See ad, page 29.

TURNING POINT REIKI LLC

JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield 203-438-3050 TurningPointReiki.com TurningPointShare.com JoAnn uses intuition, experience and a deep spiritual connection in her Reiki, IET and Reconnective Healing sessions. Specializing in care for individuals with cancer, Lyme disease and back pain. All Reiki levels taught. See ad, page 10.

SHAMANIC PRACTITIONER EMBODY THE SACRED

THE SHUNGITE ROOM THE ANGEL COOPERATIVE

51 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte. 7), Ridgefield 203-431-2959 • TheAngelCoop.com Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube The first Shungite room in the USA. Shungite is the only natural material known to contain fullerenes, a unique carbon molecular structure. It is believed to have active metaphysical properties with strong healing powers. The Shungite Room hosts readings, Reiki, meditation, sound therapy, energy work and workshops. See ad, page 23.

SOUND HEALING SUE BROUDY

The Angel Wing, A Divine Spiritual Center Located next door to The Angel Cooperative 49 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte. 7), Ridgefield SueBroudy@gmail.com • SueBroudy.com Reiki master Sue Broudy leads a regular sound and healing gathering at The Angel Wing in Ridgefield the last Thursday of every month at 6:30pm. UNIverse means “one song.” When out of sync from our natural cycles and circadian rhythms, we can use sound and music to recalibrate, ground and heal our bodies and emotions back into coherence. Sue uses mantras, group chanting and call-and-repeat singing, which help to boost endorphins and relieve stress.

HUMMINGBIRD SOUND YOGA

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares Bucks Rock Rd, New Milford 860-946-9470 BSoares@LightOfTheNewMoon.com HummingbirdSoundYoga.com Facebook @HummingbirdSoundYoga Barbara (Bobbi) Soares, MA, CYT, is a sound yoga and vocal yoga teacher, blues/jazz singer, and Reiki master, certified in several modalities of energy and sound healing. She offers hummingbird sound yoga and sound healing immersions for groups and private sessions. Using earth, dance and symphonic gongs, bowls, tuning forks and humming-for-health meditations, her goal is to help individuals experience becoming “one with sound” to promote a deep relaxation response that balances energy and encourages healing. See ad, page 31.

SOUND HEALING & REIKI TUNING IN REIKI

Eileen Byrne, Reiki Master, Sound Healing Therapist Rivers Edge Healing Center, 5 Riverside Rd, Sandy Hook 203-448-6242 ReikiAndSoundTherapy@gmail.com TuningInReiki.com Eileen offers Reiki and sound healing sessions to help aid in stress reduction and get the body back “in tune.” She performs sound baths in New York and Connecticut, and also offers workshops on topics related to sound healing.

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Develop physical and mental fitness and find a new harmony of the mind, body and spirit using these ancient Chinese movement arts. Starting with basic movements, warm-up techniques and breathing exercises, you will learn a set of flowing natural movements done slowly with calmness, balance and awareness. Weekly classes, weekend workshops and retreats.

Natural Living Directory 2020

THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE WESTPORT THERAPEUTIC LLC Betsy Benham Fruda LMT 16 Ketchum St, Westport BetsyBWTllc.com • 203-858-0679

Therapeutic massage. Deep tissue melt. Fascial function. Restorative movement. The goal of my work is creating fascial function and wellness. You leave feeling lighter, standing taller and like something different just happened. I “de-glom” your body using deep tissue melt, cupping, structural integration and myofascial release techniques. See ad, page 39.

TRANSFORMATIVE HEALING

WELLNESS CENTER THE ANGEL WING, A DIVINE SPIRITUAL CENTER

Located next door to The Angel Cooperative 49 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte. 7), Ridgefield 203-431-2959 •TheAngelCoop.com Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube The Angel Wing hosts workshops, yoga classes, retreats, energy work sessions, readings, Reiki and guided meditations. It is available to rent on an hourly, daily, weekly or monthly basis. Optional rental spaces include a large open room and/or an intimate private room with massage/ Reiki table. See ad, page 23.

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Berta Prevosti, Usui and Karuna Reiki Master 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 • JiivaCenter.com

Katie will assist you in reaching your true potential and heal what has been holding you back. You will experience real self-acceptance and start to live in alignment with who you truly are so you can create a life you love, a life of meaning and purpose. See ad, page 39.

Jiiva is in the business of building a community for yoga and healing. We offer yoga classes, a school of Reiki, private Reiki treatments, traditional massage therapy, Thai massage, meditation classes, workshops and community events. See ad, page 29.

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SOUL HEALING JOURNEY, LLC Eilis Philpott Fairfield • 203-767-5954 Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com SoulHealingJourney.com

Eilis is a master healer and teacher and certified in numerous modalities as both a practitioner and teacher. She offers soul-level healing, which clears any blocks, obstacles and challenges that are preventing you from living your life to its fullest potential. See ad, page 82.

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Fairfield County’s first and only therapeutic Himalayan salt cave provides relief from respiratory issues such as allergies, asthma, and side effects of smoking and pollution. Salt is naturally anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal. See ad, page 77.

SALT CAVE OF DARIEN

555 Post Rd, Darien 203-658-7667 Info@SaltCaveofDarien.com SaltCaveofDarien.com Our wellness destination offers a rich lineup of therapies: community salt cave sessions, special events with local healers, lunchtime meditation class, coffee chatter sessions and weekly yoga and stretch classes. See ad, page 39.

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SALT OF THE EARTH THERAPEUTIC SPA

787 Main St S, Woodbury 203-586-1172 NaturalSaltHealing.com Combining an array of natural therapies that have been used since ancient times with today’s technology, Salt of the Earth Spa provides a sanctuary for deep transformation, healing and grounding for mind, body and spirit. See ad, page 4.

VALLEY SPIRIT WELLNESS COOPERATIVE

6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot 860-619-2788 ValleySpiritCoop.com We offer a unique blend of integrative medicine, classes and self-care options. Therapies include acupuncture, herbal medicine, bodywork, massage, holistic psychotherapy, holistic art therapy and intuitive healing. Classes include yoga, meditation and tai chi.

YOGA HUMMINGBIRD SOUND YOGA

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares Bucks Rock Rd, New Milford 860-946-9470 BSoares@LightOfTheNewMoon.com HummingbirdSoundYoga.com Facebook @HummingbirdSoundYoga Barbara (Bobbi) Soares, MA, CYT, is a sound yoga and vocal yoga teacher, blues/jazz singer, and Reiki master, certified in several modalities of energy and sound healing. She offers hummingbird sound yoga and sound healing immersions for groups and private sessions. Her goal is to help individuals experience becoming “one with sound” to promote a deep relaxation response that balances energy and encourages healing. See ad, page 31.

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Use Your Thought Power Three Steps to Inner Peace

by Paige Dest

o matter who you are, negativity can take over your mood and drag you down for a day, a week or even longer. We all face it—negative self-talk, cynicism and bad mojo. Sometimes it seems like there’s negativity everywhere you turn: Listen to the news; it’s usually negative. Look at Facebook—

Gentle, Safe, Effective Techniques Ideally Suited For Expectant Moms & Young Children PrenatalR PediatricR Family WellnessR 72

everyone seems to have a happier or better life than you. Think about those around you—there’s always drama. Between dealing with people at work, in the community and friends and family, do you ever feel like shouting, “Stop the world, I want to get off!”? It’s easy to get caught up in the

Question your thoughts. You are responsible for your thoughts, and you have the right to question your negative self-talk. Ask yourself where your thoughts are coming from—are they caused by something in your past? Are your thoughts about fearing a future event? The past is given to us as a lesson. We don’t know the future, so our mind tends to wander in the past because that’s what we know. Rather than dwell in the past, it could be helpful to ask yourself what is the worst that could happen? How likely is that worst case?

As one of Connecticut’s leading prenatal and pediatric wellness offices, we are extensively trained on how to take care of the most precious thing in the world to you, your child. Dr. Braglia has additional training and certification in the chiropractic care of pregnant women and children of all ages. That’s why we are the preferred chiropractors for many pediatricians, naturopaths, obstetricians, midwives, doulas, and providers throughout Fairfield Peter J. Braglia, D.C. and New Haven County.

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negativity because it’s biological. Your brain actually has developed to focus on the negative: It monitors for threats, and even if the thought or situation isn’t really posing a threat, our brain can convince us that there is one. Now, we could consider how the brain works, how the chemical cortisol flows freely and encourages negative thoughts and how thinking positively helps the flow of dopamine, bringing warm and happy feelings; but let’s keep it simple with this one simple rule: You have the power to control your thoughts. You have the choice to see things positively, though it may take effort and practice. This is easier said than done, though. How do you deal with your co-worker who is always complaining or the friend who likes to “help” by criticizing you in some way or the newscaster who is warning you of the dangers of global warming? You take back your power of choice. Here are three steps you can take today to begin developing positive inner peace.

Or maybe your negative thought is driven by something someone did or said. Remember that what people do and say is about them, not you. They may blame you or judge you, but it’s coming from their perspective, belief system and past lessons. What they say and do is their choice, what you think (and say and do) is yours. Put your thoughts into perspective and make a conscious decision as to whether the thought is true or exaggerated in some way. Our thoughts can often “lie” to us, so make sure you only allow truth into your world. Practice gratitude. Gratitude reminds us that there is good in the world, and that we are the recipient of goodness from an outside source. No matter who you are or what you may be going through, you can find blessings if you look. Look for the silver lining and be grateful for even the little things. You can practice gratitude by naming one thing each day for which you are grateful. If you keep a written or digital journal, you can go back and see all the blessings in your life. Perhaps begin a ritual of reviewing your gratitude journal on New Year’s Eve to start the new year with a positive outlook! Think about this story: A man was walking to the bus stop after work, tired and frustrated by the events of the day and anxious to get home. As he sat on the bus waiting for his horrible day to be over, a woman getting on the bus caught his eye. This woman had only one leg, but she was greeting everyone around her pleasantly. The man looked out the bus window and saw a child in a wheelchair. The child had no legs but was smiling and laughing with the adult walking along side of him. The man realized that putting his problems into perspective helped him see the blessings he’d been given, even the ones he had taken for granted. Seek out positive surroundings. Have you ever heard the saying, “You are the company you keep”? The people with whom you surround yourself can influence your thoughts and behavior. Their energy can be absorbed by you like a sponge, so make sure the people you allow to be around you bring positive energy and exhibit realistic optimism. Find the people who lift you up and remind you to be your best self. Recognize setbacks as temporary situations or learning experiences. Remember, sometimes you win, sometimes you learn. Determine who and what you want in your life—the people and things that lift you up. And make sure to spend time outside every day. Nature is an amazing emotional healer! Better yet, take a walk with a good friend to maximize the positivity. Paige Dest is a Certified Emotional Intelligence Coach and Core Values Index Practitioner and the owner of BYODestiny. She provides emotional intelligence coaching to individuals and presents retreats, workshops and national webinars on emotional intelligence and happiness topics. Attend her Self-Care workshop at the Norwich Inn and Spa on March March 21. Session one is from 1:30 to 3:30 ($44.50) and session two is from 6:30 to 8:30pm ($49.50). To register, visit Tinyurl.com/ukns63x.

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Ask the Big Questions

The Voice in Your Head is Not You

Heal, Evolve and Transform in 2020 by Katie Augustyn

e all have the ability to be more present in our lives, as well as to reach our potential and be the best version of ourselves. At the same time, we can also be a force for positive change in the world. The first step is developing self-awareness. As Faisal Hoque said, “When you know yourself, you can act with a confidence that is your own. The better we understand the nature of ourselves, the better we can move within ourselves.”

Questions you can ask yourself include: • What do I need to heal from my past? • What limiting beliefs do I have? • What are my core values? • What do I want my life to be? It takes work to develop self-awareness, and it is an ongoing process. There are many tools to help you build self-awareness and self-knowledge, 74

including courses, workshops, books and articles, and there are many resources in this magazine. Working with a personal coach is also a great place to start.

Healing

As we grow up, everyone experiences times of emotional and psychological pain. These experiences stay with us in the form of energy that can get stuck in our bodies if we don’t release it. This stuck energy can recreate the original emotional pain when we are triggered by something in our current lives. For example, when your spouse or partner raises their voice in a moment of anger, you relive your childhood experience of your parent yelling at you. Then, your reaction comes from a deep place of fear and shame, causing you to overreact and either yell back hurtfully or shut down and blame yourself. If you take steps to heal the wounds you received in childhood, you will realize that you have a choice—you needn’t react as your five-

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As we live our lives, we develop a “story” about our past experiences. More often than not, the “story” is not entirely true. But by believing it, we create limiting beliefs about ourselves. For example, when you were growing up, your sibling was praised for her artistic ability, while you were more interested in academic pursuits and praised for your good grades. The family story became that you were smart but not creative, and you bought into it. In reality, you were also creative but you believed the “story” you told yourself and never wanted to try anything creative because you thought you would fail. This is a limiting belief that can go unexamined until you recognize and challenge it. Beware of the voice in your head that says you are not worthy or you can’t do something. You can challenge that voice and change the message to a true one that will empower, not limit, you.

Change Your Perspective

To paraphrase Wayne Dyer, when you change the way you are looking at something, that something changes. This can be a profound shift into positivity and will make a huge difference in your life. It’s a matter of reframing things that may appear negative to you. For example, if your spouse or partner loads the dishwasher and doesn’t do it exactly like you would prefer to have it done, you get annoyed and complain that he can’t do anything right. If you take a moment to change the way you are looking at it, you will realize that you can be happy because

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year-old self but instead can react as the capable adult you are now. There are many energy-healing modalities available to assist you in releasing old, stuck energy and patterns, and it is important to do so. Check the listings in this Natural Awakenings issue to get started finding resources to aid you in this effort.

he is loading the dishwasher at all, and let go of the idea that he is not doing it the way you prefer. (Or if there is a serious error involved, you can simply move things around later, without making a big fuss about it!) Instead of an annoying partner who can’t do things correctly, you now see a well-meaning partner who doesn’t always know how you want things done but tries to be helpful anyway. Another example is your parent constantly giving you advice that you don’t need or want. Instead of letting them drive you crazy, try reframing their advice-giving, which makes you feel incompetent, as their way of showing they love and care about you. If you express this new viewpoint to them, it may even result in their bugging you less since they will feel more appreciated and understood.

Identify Core Values

Another helpful exercise in personal growth and evolution is identifying your

As we grow up, everyone experiences times of emotional and psychological pain. These experiences stay with us in the form of energy that can get stuck in our bodies if we don’t release it. core values, which are attributes central to how you lead your life. These values are critical to your living a fulfilling life, and they are different for everyone. Examples are authenticity, integrity, joy, creativity, connection and compassion. There are many lists, some with close to 200 choices, that can help you in identifying your core values. Start with your top 10 values and narrow down to your top five. It’s not easy, but you will learn a great deal about yourself if you are honest about it! You then can use your core values to make decisions to create a life that is meaningful and fulfilling.

To make 2020 a year of positivity and personal growth, you can get started by trying these exercises: • Find an energy healer to help you release stuck energy and patterns • Let go of limiting beliefs from old stories you carry in your head • Change the way you look at something that bothers you so it becomes more positive • Identify and honor your core values to bring meaning and fulfillment to your life. Katie Augustyn is the spiritual head of Transformation Center CT in Westport, which offers group workshops and trainings, as well as individual sessions, for those seeking healing, spiritual growth and personal transformation. Visit her website TransformationCenterCT.com for more information. See profile on page 54 and Community Resource Guide listing, page 70.

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Disrupting Disposables The Drive to Banish Single-Use Plastics

by Yvette C. Hammett

niversities, sports There is momentum, tax levies and education. arenas, restauExperts agree that it is not but it is challenging. just a litter problem, but a rants and other businesses are taking up sobering matter of human ~Eric DesRoberts the call to “disrupt disposand planetary health. ables” as part of a global effort to dramat As these plastics wind up in the oceans ically cut down on single-use plastics. The and landfills worldwide, they can languish environmental problems caused by those virtually intact for up to 1,000 years, entanubiquitous throwaways have become a gling and choking marine mammals and mainstay of news reporting, and studterrestrial wildlife. Or, they break into toxic ies on how best to reduce them through microplastics that enter drinking water public policy abound. A recent Canadian supplies, eventually ingested by humans. research paper in the Marine Pollution Because plastics are made from petroleum, Bulletin explores strategies such as bans, their production also adds to greenhouse

The Earth does not belong to us: We belong to the Earth. ~Marlee Matlin

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gases that contribute to the climate crisis. Two-pronged efforts by businesses and individuals to divert plastics from the waste system and replacing them with Earth-friendly alternatives will eventually pay off, experts say, but it will be a long and slow process. However, momentum is building, spurred by consumer demand and a growing number of enterprising businesses, organizations and academic institutions. At Penn State University, agriculture and biological engineering professor Judd Michael is working with sports facilities to lower both plastics use and littering; the initiative is working so well that their approaches may be taken up by other schools across the nation. “One of my projects is with NASCAR’s Pocono Raceway [also in Pennsylvania], where the owners of the track wanted to continue to make the venue more green,” he says. “There is zero waste in suites for that track, and they are initiating a comprehensive recycling program. They try to get tailgaters to participate, as well.” On campus, Penn State provides bags of different colors for tailgaters with instructions for fans to separate recyclables in one bag and everything else in the other. That program was exported to Pocono. Michael is also working with PepsiCo, which owns Frito-Lay, to develop alternative packaging. The University of Florida’s efforts began in 2012, when the campus freed itself from plastic bags, getting buy-in from Chick-Fil-A, Subway and other eateries that agreed to switch to alternatives. “We’ve been Styrofoam-free since 2012, as well,” says Allison Vitt, outreach and communications coordinator for the UF Office of Sustainability. “At the end of 2018, we officially switched over all to compostable straws.” They feel like plastic, but are certified compostable, she says. UF has engaged with Cupanion, a company that developed an app that has a “fill it forward” program, distributing money to clean-water charities worldwide. “Since 2016, we’ve been working with them to reduce single-use plastic, rewarding people for reusing their bottles,” says Vitt.

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green living

A lot of local folks have really changed their perspective. We see a lot more customers coming in and saying they appreciate that we are using compostable cups and compostable straws. ~Dana Honn Interested students, staff and faculty are given a barcode sticker to scan on their phone each time a bottle is refilled at a campus retailer or water fountain. The app provides points that can be redeemed for monthly prizes. “It also shows you your personal footprint—your cumulative impact, like how many single-use bottles you have avoided,” she says. On a smaller scale, Dana Honn and his wife Christina went completely plastic-free upon opening Café Carmo, in New Orleans. “We only had about a dozen seats, but determined to have as little waste as possible. Every year, we were able to build upon it,” he says. “A lot of local folks have really changed their perspective. We see a lot more customers coming in and saying they appreciate that we are using compostable cups and compostable straws.” It’s a slow, but steady effort, says Eric DesRoberts, senior manager of the Ocean Conservancy’s Trash Free Seas program. “We have worked with a number of restaurants talking about why it is important to be taking action to keep plastics out of the waste stream and out of the ocean.” More people are volunteering to clean up and cut back on plastics, and more businesses are asking the nonprofit, Washington, D.C.-based, environmental advocacy organization how they can do their part. “There is momentum, but it is challenging,” says DesRoberts. Yvette C. Hammett is an environmental writer based in Valrico, Florida. Connect at YvetteHammett28@hotmail.com.

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Natural Living Directory 2020

Food always tastes better in the season it was intended to be eaten in. ~Brigit Binns

A Feast for All Seasons Embracing the Rainbow Year Round

by April Thompson

o matter where we live, eating seasonally in winter doesn’t have to be boring or limiting; a culinary adventure awaits the home chef that’s willing to leave avocados and asparagus to their rightful seasons and embrace the winter rainbow of bitter greens, sweet potatoes, sunny citrus and fuchsia beets, among other timely delicacies.

“Sometimes people think of winter foods as brown and soft and boring, and it’s absolutely not the case. Winter brings bright things like pomegranates, beets and citrus, which offer color and acidity,” says Brigit Binns, the Paso Robles, California author of 30 cookbooks, including Cooking in Season: 100 Recipes for Eating Fresh.

Eating seasonally is especially important in winter, says Shannon Stonger of Texas, author of Simple Food for Winter: 30 Grain-Free Recipes to Get You Through the Dark Days. “Winter foods like fermented vegetables, root vegetables, squashes and hardy greens are especially helpful in the colder, darker months, when our bodies are in need of comfort foods as well as pre- and probiotic foods,” says Stonger, a homesteader and founder of the blog NourishingDays.com. There are plenty of other reasons to stick to a seasonal diet in winter, adds Binns. “Food always tastes better in the season it was intended to be eaten in. Seasonal foods are naturally ripened, rather than harvested early and trucked in. In addition to enhanced flavor, eating seasonally helps minimize use of fossil fuels to bring our food to us, and is likely to be less expensive.”

Winterizing the Kitchen

Much of the fall harvest, particularly root vegetables, stores well through the winter (hence the idea of a root cellar), extending produce across seasons, according to Steven Satterfield, chef and author of Root to Leaf: A Southern Chef Cooks Through the Seasons. There are lots of root vegetables beyond just

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conscious eating

carrots and potatoes to be enjoyed in winter, including sunchokes, parsnips and turnips, which can be used creatively rather than “boiled to death,” says Satterfield. For example, the Atlanta restaurateur incorporates parsnips into an upside-down cake with winter spices like nutmeg, black pepper and ginger. Binns likes to add texture to winter dishes with nuts, color with herbs, and crunch with a winter vegetable like fennel. Warming soups are always comforting during the coldest season, but she also likes warm salads, like a beet and escarole salad drizzled with a warm sherry vinaigrette. Satterfield suggests that specialty citrus like blood oranges, Meyer lemons and cross-hybridized varieties such as tangelos and pomelos are fun to intersperse with winter vegetables to maximize brightness and freshness. A lot of winter produce can be great in raw form as well, he adds, including Brussels sprouts, rutabaga or daikon radish, shaved thinly or julienned into a salad. Winter squash is a favorite staple of the Stonger family in the cooler months. “It is easy to grow, easy to store and so deliciously sweet and rich. We roast it as a side dish, mash it as a sort of breakfast porridge or make soups and curries from it,” says Stonger. Satterfield suggests using all the parts of winter vegetables to maximize the harvest and minimize food waste. For example, the seeds of winter squashes can be roasted with herbs and spices and eaten as is, churned into other dishes such as a squash seed granola or blended and strained into a homemade broth to add some texture, fat and flavor. After roasting carrots with Moroccan spices, Satterfield suggests taking the leafy carrot tops and chopping them with cilantro and garlic to make a green sauce to crown the carrots. Swiss chard stems can also be chopped and cooked into Portuguese bread soup, with leftover stale bread made into olive oil croutons and egg whites stirred in at the end.

Winter Health Boosters

Beyond selecting seasonal produce, chefs recommend a few key dietary tweaks in winter, such as stepping up vitamin D consumption. “Since you’re not seeing a lot of sun this time of year, it’s more important to get it through colorful vegetables like carrots, cabbage or radicchio. Watermelon radishes are another winter vegetable full of vitamins,” says Binns. “You can grow your own sprouts throughout the winter as a great microgreen option. Sprouts are incredibly high in enzymes, something often lacking in other winter dishes,” suggests Stonger. “Fermented vegetables and other fermented foods can make up the difference in winter.” April Thompson is a freelance writer in Washington, D.C. Connect at AprilWrites.com.

WASTE FAIRE & Sustainable Living Expo

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Wilton High School Field House Sponsored by: LiveGreen/CT Southwestern Area Clean Cities Sustainne Junkluggers BayState Textiles Chartwells Natural Awakenings Fairfield County

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Winter Salad Wonders

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½ fennel bulb, trimmed 8 kumquats ¼ cup sliced almonds, toasted

Cut the celery in half lengthwise. Using a serrated vegetable peeler or a mandoline, shave the celery into thin strips lengthwise down the ribs. Cut the strips in half crosswise and place in a bowl of water. Set aside.

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Separate the mâche leaves and transfer to a shallow serving bowl. Working on a plate to capture all the juices, use a serrated knife to cut a thick slice off the top and bottom of each citrus fruit. Working with one fruit at a time, stand it upright and, following the contour of the fruit, carefully slice downward to remove the peel, pith and membrane. Set the fruit on its side and cut crosswise into slices about ⅜-inch thick, discarding any seeds. Transfer the slices to the bowl with the mâche, reserving the juices for the vinaigrette.

Mixed Citrus Salad With Mâche, Fennel and Celery Winter is the height of citrus season, with an appealing display of oranges, mandarins, tangerines, tangelos, pomelos and more in the best-stocked markets. Use a varied mixture of sweet-tart types for the prettiest, tastiest salad. Yields: 4 servings

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2 ribs celery 2 bunches mâche 2 lb mixed citrus fruits, such as navel oranges, blood oranges, tangerines, mandarins and pomelos

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Cut the fennel lengthwise in half. Using a mandoline or a sharp knife, cut the fennel crosswise into very thin slices and tuck among the citrus slices. Drain the celery and distribute evenly over the salad. Using the serrated knife, cut each kumquat crosswise into very thin slices, discarding any seeds. Scatter the kumquat slices evenly over the salad, then sprinkle the almonds over the top. To make the vinaigrette, pour the reserved citrus juices into a measuring cup. Add enough additional orange juice to measure ½ cup then add the vinegar. Whisking constantly, slowly add the olive oil and whisk until well combined. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Drizzle the vinai-

photo by Ray Kachatorian

For the vinaigrette: Fresh orange juice or as needed 1 Tbsp champagne vinegar ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil Sea salt and freshly ground pepper

grette over the salad, toss gently to coat, and serve.

photo by Ray Kachatorian

From Cooking in Season: 100 Recipes for Eating Fresh, by Brigit Binns

Chard and Squash Salad 1 small winter squash, such as sweet dumpling, acorn or golden 2 small beets, trimmed 1 Tbsp olive oil 1 bunch Swiss chard, tough ribs removed and leaves torn Red wine vinaigrette or vinaigrette of choice Sea salt and freshly ground pepper Cut the winter squash into wedges and remove the seeds, if desired. Transfer the wedges to a baking dish. Halve the beets and add to the dish. Drizzle with the oil and toss to coat. Bake in a preheated 450Â° F oven, stirring once, until tender and lightly browned, 20 to 40 minutes. Let cool. Peel and slice the beets. Place the chard in a bowl, drizzle with some of the vinaigrette. Toss to coat. Add the squash and beets, drizzle with the remaining vinaigrette, and season to taste with salt and pepper. From Cooking in Season: 100 Recipes for Eating Fresh, by Brigit Binns

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TIDYING UP THAT BUCKET LIST Deciding What We Really Want

by Carl Greer

any people have a bucket list of things they want to make sure they experience in this life. Tidying up that bucket list when it no longer reflects a person’s values and deepest desires makes sense. When reviewing our bucket list, we might feel inadequate or embarrassed because we haven’t accomplished what we thought we would. It’s okay if a goal is no longer as exciting as it

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once was. Guilt, frustration or embarrassment about what’s been lingering on a bucket list for years might be signs that it’s time to dream different dreams. What’s on a bucket list might have been based on a need to prove ourselves to others. If we no longer feel the need to impress people or win their approval, we can move on to new goals. Maybe our family has always talked about traveling to the land of our ancestors as an important thing to do someday, but we don’t feel the same way. We might prefer to travel someplace where we can swim with dolphins or meet people from a completely different culture than our own. Releasing the weight of having a bucket list heavy with other people’s expectations can help us feel much lighter. Maybe those bucket list items still spark some excitement, but it’s time to change the form of the experience. A goal to write a novel might turn into a goal to write our life story and turn it into a book. A goal to marry again might become a promise to ourselves to enjoy life with a new romantic partner, regardless of whether that leads to marriage someday. As we go down our bucket list reviewing each item, we can acknowledge which goals still inspire us and which make us feel dispirited. Tidying up a bucket list written in the past can be a good exercise in becoming more conscious of what we want to experience and why—and what dreams we are ready to release— because we have new aspirations now. If we’re spending our time doing what gives us a sense of vitality, happiness and well-being and there is something we haven’t done that generates a feeling of joy and anticipation, it should go at the top of our bucket list— and we should find a way today to start making it happen. Carl Greer, Ph.D., Psy.D., is a practicing clinical psychologist, Jungian analyst and shamanic practitioner. He teaches at the C.G. Jung Institute of Chicago and is on staff at the Replogle Center for Counseling and Well-Being, in Chicago. Learn more at CarlGreer.com.

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inspiration

2020 EDITORIAL CALENDAR March January February

NATURAL LIVING DIRECTORY

• Fresh Start • Refresh the Immune System

April

• Shifting into Positive • Regenerative Medicine

May

• Plant-Based Nutrition • CBD

June

WOMEN’S WELLNESS ISSUE

• Grassroots Climate Strategies • Creatures Great and Small

July

• Food Connection • Gut Health

October

• Exploring Other Realms • Transcending Physical Health

• Autoimmune Breakthroughs • Lyme Disease

August

• Education Out of the Box • Prospering through Transition

November

• The Sugar Challenge • Stress Management

• Inspired Lifestyle • Brain Health

September

• Expressive Arts and Movement • Emotion Quotient

December

• Community & Connection • Get Your Glow On Natural Living Directory 2020

naturally healthy pet

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The Monthly Naturally Healthy Pet Section Starts Here!

FOLLOW YOUR GUIDING STARS Horse Wisdom for a New Decade

News, articles, resources, events— all dedicated exclusively to happy, naturally healthy living for our furred, feathered and scaled animal companions For information on how you can be a part of a future issue, call

203-885-4674 or email NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

by Carrie Brady

he beginning of a new decade is a wonderful opportunity to consider guiding stars, the points by which we navigate through our lives. We all have them, but we may not be aware of them. Unlike humans, horses have a clear set of guiding stars; they don’t agonize over decisions. If they did, a herd wouldn’t survive an attack from a predator. Horses’ primary guiding stars include: Survival: As prey animals, horses continually scan the environment to detect threats to their survival. If a horse becomes concerned, it will turn its full attention to the prospective threat and assess it. The rest of the herd will do the same. If the threat is determined to be

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real, then the herd will take the necessary action, such as moving to safety. A horse that is concerned for its survival cannot be bribed by treats because they always will choose survival over delight. Responsibility: Horses also have a great sense of responsibility to their herd. It is important for them to fill their roles in the herd and to rely on other horses to do the same. Although some horses are able to adapt to life alone, horses are generally more comfortable with other horses because they know they can count on their herd and don’t have to do everything themselves. Joy: If there is no current threat and no immediate role to be played in the herd,

such as watching over other sleeping horses, horses will choose to do what brings them joy. Given the freedom to do so, they enjoy the moment by grazing, rolling, running, grooming each other or just napping in the sun. They choose delight.

Discover Your Guiding Stars

Survival, responsibility and joy also may be human guiding stars, but the way we interpret them can become distorted and create limiting beliefs. For example, a strong work ethic is generally positive but may lead to a guiding star of continuous productivity that leaves no time for “frivolous” play. People with a strong productivity guiding star unconsciously may avoid joy and delight because the guiding star has become so ingrained in who they are, they have lost sight of their ability to find the time to relax. As this year and new decade unfold, consider what beliefs or priorities guide you in making major life decisions. What do you consider when making smaller decisions, such as how you spend your day? Do your guiding stars for big decisions match the ones you use for daily decisions? Often, we give more thought to major decisions and may not be aware that how we spend our days isn’t consistent with how we truly want to live our lives. What adjustments could you make to align your days with your guiding stars?

if you came to a medicine person complaining of being disheartened, dispirited, or depressed, they would ask one of four questions: “When did you stop dancing? When did you stop singing? When did you stop being enchanted by stories? When did you stop being comforted by the sweet territory of silence?” Loss of these essential joys is believed to be the root of the problem. Consider whether joy is even on your list of guiding stars. If not, watch the animals in your life to see how easy it is for them to incorporate joy. Dogs romp or chew a bone, cats stretch and nap, birds fly and sing, foxes leap and roll—animals naturally choose play and enjoyment on a regular basis. Humans can too, it may just take some practice at first.

Adjust the Course in Transitions

As humans go through transitions in their lives, it can be disconcerting when they don’t recognize the need to set new guiding stars. For example, some parents may feel lost when their children go to college. Although the children will always be an important part of their lives, the guiding star has changed, creating opportunities to set a new direction and open up new options. Another common reason for a course correction is when imaginary fear

has become a guiding star. Consider the things that set off your alarm bells and cause you to become concerned for your survival. Are you actually facing direct threats today, such as a serious illness, or are you giving real weight to imaginary fears? Fear can be useful in helping us make good decisions in certain circumstances, such as not engaging in dangerous behaviors, but fear also can become overwhelming and all-consuming, encouraging us to anxiously base all decisions on avoiding danger, even when the dangers aren’t real. Learning to approach threats like a horse does—remaining aware but only responding when directly faced with a real problem—helps us avoid using imaginary fear as a guiding star. Spend some time watching animals to determine what their guiding stars are and then compare them to your own. Whether we have pets or watch wildlife, the animals always have something to teach us. Carrie Brady partners with four horses in innovative non-riding programs for personal growth, professional development and wellness. If you aren’t able to visit Possibilities Farm in Wilton, Brady is available for phone coaching from the barn, so you still get personalized advice directly from the herd. Connect at 203-210-7484 or at PossibilitiesFarm.com.

Choose to Thrive Instead of Just Survive

While horses are prey animals hardwired to scan for predators or other dangers, in the absence of an immediate threat, they will spend their days peacefully grazing. When faced with danger, they know how to respond in the moment, then release stress and immediately return to peace. Humans tend to struggle with this transition and place too much emphasis on survival and responsibility while completely devaluing delight. Of course, survival and responsibility are important, but in order to thrive, joy is essential. As Gabrielle Roth notes, “In many shamanic societies,

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Natural Living Directory 2020

Pain Relief for Pets Prolotherapy Gives Joints New Life

by Julie Peterson

rian Engler, of time we completed Prolotherapy offers Drexel Hill, the treatments, he an effective alternative to was able to get up Pennsylvania, surgery in a significant and down with ease was asked to provide number of partial ligament and started cruising hospice care for a senior Akita. Tadao was tears or persistent joint around the kitchen underweight, weak, looking for snacks pain issues. arthritic and had been on the counter,” says severely neglected. He Engler. ~Judith M. Shoemaker needed a place to live Prolotherapy, out his remaining days in comfort. Even short for proliferative therapy, isn’t just though Tadao was unstable with severely for dogs. Any animal with a joint can limited mobility, Engler believed that the receive the regenerative injection theraold dog had more than a little life left in py, which relieves pain by strengthening him. ligaments and tendons supporting the Engler’s veterinarian tried prolotherjoint. It’s minimally invasive, involving apy injection treatments for Tadao’s joint the injection of a sugar solution directly pain and he soon became more comfortinto the affected area. The body’s inflamable and gradually more active. “By the mation response kicks in, resulting in 86

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regrowth of new fibers in ligaments and tendons. Prolotherapy has been around a long time. It was used to treat lame animals around 1350 B.C. Back then, a hot poker was used to induce the inflammation response. In the 1930s, injection of an irritant solution at the site of the injury became the new method, and has since been shown in scientific studies to facilitate the repair and regrowth of connective tissue, ligaments, tendons, cartilage and other joint-stabilizing structures. Modern prolotherapy has remained basically the same for the last 80 years, although the injected irritant solution is modified according to the veterinarian, the type of animal and the injury. Every vet uses a slightly different prolotherapy “cocktail”, which typically includes 50 percent dextrose and possibly several other ingredients the practitioner finds useful, such as saline, vitamin B12, lidocaine and homeopathic combinations. Some vets also offer platelet-rich plasma or stem cells in the injection mixture. “Prolotherapy offers an effective alternative to surgery in a significant number of partial ligament tears or persistent joint pain issues,” says Judith M. Shoemaker, DVM, owner of Always Helpful Veterinary Services, in Nottingham, Pennsylvania. “It’s quite inexpensive and the success rate is very good. Many animals respond after just a few treatments.” Shoemaker typically does prolotherapy treatments in three- to five-week intervals until the joint heals. She also looks to correct the underlying issues of the problem. “Joints don’t get torn up with normal movement,” she says. Animals may have joint issues from falling, but other causes include overweight, long toenails or chiropractic issues. Prolotherapy stabilizes joints after an injury and achieves pain-free motion, but it’s only successful if the cause of the injury is remedied. “Prolotherapy is a very important tool in integrative veterinary care, but it’s not a panacea, and it’s never a stand-alone

Antonio Gravante/Shutterstock.com

natural pet

treatment,” says Christin Finn, DVM, owner of the Canine Rehabilitation & Integrative Veterinary Center, in Kingston, Washington. “It’s part of a combination of integrative treatments based on what is best for your pet.” The right balance of treatments to help an animal feel comfortable could include laser therapy, osteopathic manipulation, acupuncture, physical therapy, custom braces, prolotherapy or rest. Using prolotherapy in conjunction with other posture-correcting and integrative therapies is a win for pets and their owners. Surgery is fraught with complications and expensive. When prolotherapy is used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, animals can recover from injuries that may have been debilitating or even fatal. Ivey Sumrell’s Irish sport horse recovered from a severe injury. At 8 years old, Johnny was bitten on the neck by a stallion. “His neck became unstable and he had severe problems walking,”

By the time we completed the treatments, he was able to get up and down with ease and started cruising around the kitchen looking for snacks on the counter. ~Brian Engler says Sumrell, of Tryon, North Carolina. “Ultrasound-guided prolotherapy was done three times to all of his neck joints.” Johnny was able to be ridden and lived to be 22. And Tadao, the dog that was expected to die in hospice care a year ago, is enjoying life. He’s now well-nourished and loved, and painlessly goes for walks and plays at the park. “Tadao is the poster child for what prolotherapy can do,” says Engler. Julie Peterson writes about health and environmental issues. Reach her at JuliePeterson2222@gmail.com.

Pets are humanizing.

They remind us we have an obligation and responsibility to preserve and nurture and care for all life. ~James Cromwell

Natural Living Directory 2020

pet resource guide

VETERINARY SERVICES NUTMEG SPAY/NEUTER CLINIC

ADOPTION/RESCUE

25 Charles St, Stratford 203-690-1550 NutmegClinic.org

ANIMALS IN DISTRESS INC

NFSAW

238 Danbury Rd, Wilton 203-762-2006 Animals-In-Distress.com

223 State Rt 37, New Fairfield 203-746-2925 NFSAW.org

BRIDGEPORT ANIMAL CONTROL

PET ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY INC (PAWS)

236 Evergreen St, Bridgeport 203-576-7727

COMMUNITY CATS PO Box 4380, Stamford CommunityCatsCT@yahoo.com CommunityCatsCT.org

DANBURY ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY (DAWS) 147 Grassy Plain St, Bethel 203-744-3297

FRIENDS OF FELINES INC PO Box 8147, Stamford 203-363-0220 Cats@AdoptAPet.org AdoptAPet.org

LOOKING GLASS ANIMAL RESCUE Ridgefield • LGARinc.org On Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

504 Main Ave, Norwalk 203-750-9572 PAWSCT.org

PET PROTECTORS 2490 Black Rock Tpke, #453, Fairfield 203-330-0255 PetProtectorsRescue.org

RIDGEFIELD OPERATION FOR ANIMAL RESCUE (ROAR) 45 South St, Ridgefield 203-438-0158 ROAR-Ridgefield.org

STRAYS AND OTHERS PO Box 473, New Canaan 203-966-6556 StraysAndOthers@hotmail.com

WESTPORT ANIMAL SHELTER ADVOCATES (WASA)

The Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic is a low-cost, high-volume facility for cats and dogs, the first such professional clinic in Fairfield County. The clinic offers other low-cost services during the spay/neuter appointment. Nutmeg honors state spay/neuter vouchers at face value from adopted shelter pets and qualified low-income families, and offers further low-cost incentives to nonprofit rescue groups. Pit bulls and mixes are welcome at an even more reduced rate, and the clinic offers spay/neuter and vaccine discounts for feral cats. See ad, page 87.

PET ASSISTANCE, INC

PO Box 2015, New Preston 860-355-PETS GetaPet@gmail.com PetAssistanceInc.org Pet Assistance helps keep pets in their homes in times of financial and medical crises, providing emergency veterinary subsidies to pet owners in financial need. We only give grants for pets that have a good prognosis, unless the knowledge we gain from the treatment or surgery may help future animals in need.

1 Tower Ridge, Westport 203-557-0361 WestportWASA.org

Colors are the smiles of nature. ~Leigh Hunt

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markyourcalendar calendar of events BECOME A MARCONICS PRACTITIONER! Saturday, February 22 • 9:30am-5pm & Sunday, February 23 • 9:30am-4:30pm Begin your journey back to Source. Everything that came before has been in preparation for this moment; a step along the path. THIS IS ASCENSION! Scale the Mountain and claim SOUL SOVEREIGNTY. Registration: Marconics.com/Level_1_Wallingford_CT.html Divinely Rooted Yoga Studio located in Hidden Gem on Main 33 N Main St, Suite D, Wallingford Contact: Julie Oakes 203-533-9633 or SNETeachers@Marconics.com

markyourcalendar ALBERTSON MEMORIAL CHURCH UPCOMING EVENTS Saturday, February 8 and March 7 Spiritual, Psychic & Healing Fair • 11am-4pm • $35+

All Calendar events must be received by the 12th of the month prior to publication and adhere to our guidelines. Calendar submissions must be entered online at eNaturalAwakenings.com: click on “submit calendar” at the very top of the page.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8

Reiki Level 1 Workshop - 10am-5pm. With Gigi Benanti. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki Master (22 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. Two manuals and certificate. $125. Angelic Healing Center for Reiki, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

Yin Restorative & Yoga Nidra – 3-5pm. Give yourself the gift of deep relaxation and the experience of calm abiding peace. Starting with Yin Restorative Yoga, long, slow stretching intended to open joints and connective tissues. $25/advance; $35/day of event. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@Yogaspace-CT.com. Yogaspace-CT.com.

Ancient Wisdom: Overview of the History of Yoga – 1:30-3:30pm. Join Karen Pierce and teacher trainees in the Yoga studies workshop. Qualifies for Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Credit. Overview of the history of yoga, Ayurveda and Shamanism. $39. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@Yogaspace-CT.com. Yogaspace-CT.com.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 10

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13

Pendulum Power – 2-3:30pm. Register online. $25; includes a stone pendulum. Grounded Goodwife, 785 Main St North, Woodbury. 203942-0774. GroundedGoodwife@yahoo.com. GroundedGoodwife.com.

Yoga for Wrist Health Semi-Private Lesson – 6-7pm. Wrist pain causes many people to alter or stop their yoga practice. In this lesson, you’ll study the wrist and what may be causing discomfort. We’ll take time to become aware of the wrist and of all its workings and sensations as well as learn how to modify common yoga poses involving the hands and wrists. $35. Yoga Culture, 105 Mill Plain Rd, Danbury. WeAreYogaCulture.com.

Friday, January 31 • 7-9pm Saturday, February 1 • 9:30am-4:30pm & Sunday, February 2 • Service 11am-12:30pm and Post Service Discussion 12:45-1:30pm Mediumship Training with Rev. Richard Schoeller, NST-Session 1 Three Session Course-Total Cost is $750 (additional sessions in April and September)

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6

Sunday, February 9 Vision Board Creative Workshop with India Beard • 1:15-3pm • $30/members; $35/ non-members

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7

Sunday, February 16 AMCS Annual Meeting (members only) 1-4pm • Free

ONGOING EVENTS: Sundays Service • 11am-12:30pm

Bereavement Group for Parents • 1-2pm

7 Foundations: Tools for Transformation – 7:309:30pm. 2/6, 2/13, 2/20. With Karen Pierce. 7-week training on creating health and harmony using simple yet powerful tools that activate your self-healing abilities. $35/drop-in; discount for full series. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@Yogaspace-CT.com. Yogaspace-CT.com. Reiki 1st Degree Workshop – 10am-5pm. With Gigi Benanti. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki Master (22 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. Two manuals and certificate. $125. Angelic Healing Center for Reiki, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@ snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

markyourcalendar QI REVOLUTION

Wednesdays Spirit Speaks – Developing Psychic & Mediumship Abilities with Rev. Ana Reluzco 7-9pm • $20 Cancelled events will be posted on our website Email: Info@AlbertsonChurch.org Website: AlbertsonChurch.org Facebook: Facebook.com/ AlbertsonMemorialChurchofSpiritualism Meetup: Meetup.com/ AlbertsonMemorialChurchofSpiritualism

February 1-3 Be a part of the largest qigong event in North America! $199 for three days of life-changing experiences, exercises and information.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

Downtown Hartford Marriott 200 Columbus Blvd, Hartford Call 800-298-8970 or visit QiRevolution to register. eNaturalAwakenings.com

Herbalicious Kids – 3:30-5:30pm. Workshop for kids ages 8 to 13. Learn about herbs through fun games. Begin with a short meditation. Participants will also make a sleep pillow to take home. $15-$30. Please RSVP. Sticks and Stones Farm, 197 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown.Tickets: Tinyurl.com/wn6dogs.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20 Awaken Your Soles Semi-Private Lesson – 6-7pm. Learn how to care for your feet and ankles so they can support you through your yoga practice and your day. For all levels. Please bring a pair of shoes that are not new and you wear often. $35. Yoga Culture, 105 Mill Plain Rd, Danbury. WeAreYogaCulture.com.

markyourcalendar CONNECTING WITH CRYSTALS: Discovering the Messages and Healing in Crystals

Learn to connect, communicate, and work with Stone Spirits and their Energies. This workshop will discuss and work with various ways to connect with Crystals. Students will also learn and practice working with their intuitive senses to connecting with Crystals from different aspects. Workshop is taught one on one by private appointment. Contact Jessica to schedule your class. Visit HunterHealingHands.com for more info, or call Jessica Hunter at 203-916-8381

What a

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22 Mystical Mantras: A New Moon Kirtan with Sita’s Light – 7:30-9pm. Along with the Pisces new moon creating great sensitivity and perceptiveness, this is a powerful time to engage in a search for more meaning in life. All are welcome. $25/ advance; $30/at door. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@Yogaspace-CT.com. Yogaspace-CT.com.

to sitesee!

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27 7-Week Series - The Luminous Warrior: Tools for Transformation with Karen Pierce – 7:309:30pm. Thursday’s beginning 2/27. In Level 2, we dive deeper into these ancient practices and traditional ceremonies for self-empowerment, transformation, and for healing our relationship to the natural world. $35/drop-in; discount for full series. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-203-3730. Info@Yogaspace-CT.com. Yogaspace-CT.com.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28 Reiki Second Degree Workshop – 10am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher (22 years). Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. Two powerful energy connections from Gigi’s short Japanese/Usa Lineage. Two manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-8521150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@ snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 29 Reiki Second Degree – 10am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher (22 years). Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. Two powerful energy connections from Gigi’s short Japanese/Usa Lineage. Two manuals and certificate $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki. com.203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com. Building a Strong Foundation: The 5 Principles of Vinyasa and the 7 Directions of Movement with Karen Pierce – 1:30-3:30pm. Learn how to create an authentic personal practice by applying the 5 principles of practice that make yoga entirely your own. $39. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@Yogaspace-CT.com. Yogaspace-CT.com. Flower Essences 101: They’re Not essential Oils – 7-9pm. Join Ehris for an introduction to Flower Essence therapy, and create your own individualized personalized 1-ounce blend based on your challenges, needs, and goals. $28 per person. Grounded Goodwife, 785 Main St North, Woodbury. 203-942-0774. GroundedGoodwife@ yahoo.com. GroundedGoodwife.com.

markyourcalendar A YEAR OF HEALING IN 2020 With Dr. Eilis Philpott Soul Healing Journey, LLC We will meet one weekend a month for 12 months. We will spend Friday evening together and all day Saturday and Sunday. The 2020 dates are: February 7-9 • March 13-15 • April 3-5 May 1-3 • June 12-14 • July 10-12 • August 7-9 September 11-13 • October 9-11 November 13-15 • December 11-13 I will share with you what I have learned from trainings, from life and from guidance in a way that integrates the various modalities. By the end of this 12 months of training you will have catapulted your personal, professional and spiritual journey into the stratosphere.

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sunday Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 9:30-10:45am. Relax, release and flow into wellness in beginner/ level 1 yoga classes with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility and strength. Modifications suggested and props used when needed. $5/donation per class. Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-5210359. HCC.Yoga.Wendy@gmail.com. HCCYoga.org. Satsang Meditation – 9:30-11am. Satsangs are wonderful spiritual and community gatherings of like-minded people. Satsangs with Shanti Mission Healers are filled with music, mantra, meditation, spiritual instruction/discourse and spiritual blessings to help you reset, recharge and get ready for the week ahead. By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@ gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com. New Beginnings in Community Sunday Service – 10am. Join this group of spiritually minded people embracing and honoring all world religions, belief systems, cultures and traditions. Free. Mystics By The Sea, 394 New Haven Ave, Milford. 203-980-6272. NewBeginningsInCommunity.Weebly.com. Family Meditation Program – 10-11:30am. Second and fourth Sunday. Ages 4-13. While the adults are meditating in the main building, young people can connect with others in their age-group, learn about mindfulness, compassion toward self and others. 203-244-3130. MMKeeler@gmail.com. ReddingMeditation.org. Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. A simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life. Discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Celebration Service – 10:30am-12pm. With Rev. Shawn Moninger. Inspiring message supports your spiritual unfolding with thought provoking, soul -healing topics and uplifting music. By donation. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org. Sunday Morning Meditation – 11-11:45am. Experience stillness and peace, establish a regular practice, reduce stress and tension and enhance health and well-being. Meditation class for beginners and experienced meditators. $5/donation per class. Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. HCC.Yoga. Wendy@gmail.com. HCCYoga.org. Naam Yoga Community Class – 11am-12:15pm. Secomd Sunday. 2/9, 3/8, 4/19, 5/19, 6/14. Using mantra, asanas, pranayama, laughing and music, Naam Yoga works on all aspects of your being, physical, emotional and spiritual. $10/per person; $20/per family. Bethel Municipal Center, 1 School St, Bethel. Deb Clelland: 203-994-5815.

Sunday Albertson Memorial Church Service – 11am-12:30pm. Join us for inspirational sermons, meditation, energy healing and messages from Spirit. By donation. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-637-4615. Info@AlbertsonChurch.org. AlbertsonChurch.org.

monday Vinyasa Yoga – 9:30-10:30am and 11am-12pm. Vinyasa Yoga is a flowing, dynamic sequence of poses that is one of the most popular styles of yoga in the U.S. This type of practice involves synchronizing the breath with a continuous flow of postures. $20. Soul Synergy Holistic Wellness Center and Spa, 1492 High Ridge Rd, Ste 6, 2nd Fl, Stamford. 203814-1355. SoulSynergyWellness111@gmail.com. SoulSynergy.org. Heart Speak – 11am. Start your week off relaxed and invigorated. Listen to this 2-minute audio which inspires and uplifts, a part of you that speaks inspiration, wisdom, and happiness. Rotate to another GEM each Monday you will feel refueled and refreshed. Contact@heartspeak.life. Heartspeak.life. Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. A simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life. Discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Reiki Share – 7:30-9:30pm. Fourth Monday. With JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT. Practice Reiki in a small group setting. Share experiences and help each other develop in a safe, fun environment while providing a wonderful, relaxing, rejuvenating experience. $20. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center, 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointReiki.com.

tuesday Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 12:30-2pm. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness.A simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life. Discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Monthly Information Sessions at The Graduate Institute – 6:30-7:30pm. Join us for an info session every 2nd Tuesday of the month at The Graduate Institute. Please contact us to let us know that you’ll be attending. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. 203-874-4252. Prenatal/Postnatal Yoga – 6-7:15pm. This nurturing and fun gentle yoga class is designed to strengthen, stretch and embrace the changes in a woman’s body during and after pregnancy. $20. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@YogaSpace-CT.com. Yogaspace-CT.com. NAMI Support Group – 6:30-7:45pm. Third Tuesday. A place where families and friends of individuals living with mental health challenges can come together in a safe and compassionate forum. Meetings

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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are confidential. Free. Rowayton United Methodist Church, 5 Pennoyer St, Norwalk. 203-428-6864. ClaudiaDevita1123@gmail.com. NAMISouthwestCT.org. Reiki Share – 7-8:30pm. First Tuesday of the month. With June and Tracy. Come join our circle of practitioners for sharing and caring and healing. All levels of practitioners are welcome. Please RSVP. $20/drop-in. Kindred Spirits, 197 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-938-3690. Intermediate Evidential Mediumship – 7-9pm. This class is designed for those who know how to connect to spirit and wish to deepen the connection and get more specific evidence. Once a month we work with the public to gain experience. $20. 135 Clover Hill Dr. 203-344-9311. Reiki Share – 7-9pm. Second Tuesday. Practice and enhance your Reiki healing and grow your intuition. All will receive healing time and practice time. You must have completed at minimum Reiki Level I in order to fully participate. $15/suggested contribution. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail. com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com. Reiki Healing Shares – 7:30-9:30pm. First and third Tuesdays. With Gigi Benanti, Usui Reiki Master/ Teacher. For Reiki practitioners only. Includes short instruction and discussion. Must RSVP. $20. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com. Yin Restorative Yoga with Rob Farella – 7:308:45pm. Yin practice focuses on postures that lengthen the muscles surrounding the hips, pelvis, and lower back. Postures are held with support for 3-5 minutes per side to lengthen and stimulate connective tissue that surrounds the joints. $20. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Yogaspace-CT.com. Info@Yogaspace-CT.com.

wednesday Power Yoga/Vinyasa – 9:30-10:30am, 11am-12pm & 5:30-6:30pm. Power yoga is a general term used to describe a vigorous, fitness-based approach to vinyasa-style yoga. Power yoga incorporates the athleticism of Ashtanga, including lots of vinyasas. $20. Soul Synergy Wellness, 1492 High Ridge Rd, Ste 6, 2nd Fl, Stamford. 203-814-1355. SoulSynergyWellness111@ gmail.com. SoulSynergy.org. Tai Chi Classes – 6:30-7:30pm. With June Fagan, Tai Chi Instructor. A slow movement meditation for all levels of fitness. Known to reduce stress, increase focus and balance and improve self and well-being. $25/drop-in; $85/1 class per week; $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 1197 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-938-3690. Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 6:45-8pm. Relax, release and flow into wellness in beginner/ level 1 yoga classes with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility and strength. Modifications suggested and props used when needed. $5/donation per class. Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-5210359. HCC.Yoga.Wendy@gmail.com. HCCYoga.org.

Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. A simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life. Discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Meditation that often includes chanting, music and requires your active participation. All faiths and cultures are welcomed. By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com. Holistic Moms Network Fairfield County, CT Chapter – 7:30pm. Second Wednesday. Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care, 156 East Ave, Norwalk.Home.Homewebs.com/ HMNFairfieldCtyCT.

while we enjoy a peaceful, powerful night of healing. Hosted by Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher. $20. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com, UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

friday Vinyasa Yoga – 9:30-10:30am and 11am-12pm. Vinyasa Yoga is a flowing, dynamic sequence of poses that is one of the most popular styles of yoga in the U.S. This type of practice involves synchronizing the breath with a continuous flow of postures. $20. Soul Synergy Holistic Wellness Center and Spa, 1492 High Ridge Rd, Ste 6, 2nd Fl, Stamford. 203814-1355. SoulSynergyWellness111@gmail.com. SoulSynergy.org.

Turning Point S.H.A.R.E. Divorce Group – 7:30-9:30pm. Third Wednesdays. Offering support, healing, advocacy, resources and education for women in the process of, or recently divorced. $20, $150/10-session card. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center, 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointShare.com.

Reiki Share – 9:30-11:30am. First Friday. With JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT. Practice Reiki in a small group setting. Share experiences and help each other develop in a safe, fun environment while providing a wonderful, relaxing, rejuvenating experience. $20. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointReiki.com.

thursday

Kundalini Yoga – 6-7:15pm. Kundalini yoga moves energy to create a clear and calm mind, strong and resilient body and open spirit. Learn to strengthen and balance your bodily systems, cultivate objective awareness and experience greater clarity and emotional balance. No experience necessary. All levels welcome. $20. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-7309642. Info@YogaSpace-CT.com. Yogaspace-CT.com.

Kundalini Yoga and Music Meditation – 9:3010:30am. With Leesa Sklover, PhD, C-IAYT, Certified Yoga Therapist, Kundalini Yoga Teacher. Experience the yoga of awareness weekly to heal your mind and your life. All welcome. $15 per class/monthly discount. Short Beach Union Church, 14 Pentacost St, Branford. 917-860-0488. DrSklover@gmail.com. LoveLifeProductions.net. Vinyasa Yoga – 9:30-10:30am and 11am-12pm. Vinyasa Yoga is a flowing, dynamic sequence of poses that is one of the most popular styles of yoga in the U.S. This type of practice involves synchronizing the breath with a continuous flow of postures. $20. Soul Synergy Holistic Wellness Center and Spa, 1492 High Ridge Rd, Ste 6, 2nd Fl, Stamford. 203814-1355. SoulSynergyWellness111@gmail.com. SoulSynergy.org. Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 9:30-11am. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. A simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life. Discover the benefits of becoming more present. By donation. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 6:45-8pm. Relax, release and flow into wellness in beginner/ level 1 yoga classes with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility and strength. Modifications suggested and props used when needed. $5/donation per class. Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-5210359. HCC.Yoga.Wendy@gmail.com. HCCYoga.org. Reiki Healing Circle – 7-9pm. First Thursday. All welcome. Share and experience Reiki. Please join us

Discussion with The Higher Realms – 7-9:30pm. Last Friday. Bring your heartfelt questions and receive the wisdom of The Ascended Masters and The Divine Feminine specifically for you as channeled by Ginny Brown. $45. Address provided upon registration. HeartAndHealing@hotmail.com. GinnyBrown.net.

saturday Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 9:3010:45am. Relax, release and flow into wellness in beginner/level 1 yoga classes with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility and strength. Modifications suggested and props used when needed. $5/donation per class. Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. HCC.Yoga. Wendy@gmail.com. HCCYoga.org. Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. A simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life. Discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. New Men’s Group – 10:30-11:30am. This therapeutic support group is designed for men who are dealing with issues related to a relationship from their past, present or future. Limited seating available. $30 per session insurance accepted.

Wolf Spirit Wellness and Counseling Center, LLC, 125 Main St N, Woodbury. 203-263-3175. WolfSpiritWellness@gmail.com. WolfSpiritWellness.org. Spondylitis Support Group – 11am-12:30pm. Last Saturday. Led by Dr. Andrew Cummins, naturopathic physician. Having lived with the chronic inflammatory disease Ankylosing Spondylitis for the last 18 years, Cummins understands what living with chronic pain and limited mobility is all about. Group provides education, empowerment, understanding and support. Free. Shalva Clinic, 8 Lincoln St, 1st Fl, Westport. 203-916-4600. DrCummins@ShalvaClinic.org. ShalvaClinic.org. Spiritual, Psychic and Healing Fair – 11am-4pm. First Saturday. Would you like a second opinion on your life issues, or a personal message from a departed loved one? Are you curious about your purpose in this life, or seeking a bit more direction and focus? Come join us. $35+. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-637-4615. Info@AlbertsonChurch.org. AlbertsonChurch.org. New Women’s Group – 1pm. For women ages 29 through 35 who have difficulty navigating social situations that are interested in making new friends. This group will be working on understanding the nuances of social behavior and how to set attainable goals and boundaries. Space is limited. $20/ session. Wolf Spirit Wellness and Counseling Center, LLC, 125 Main St North, Ste 2B, Woodbury. 203-509-8602. WolfSpiritWellness@gmail.com. WolfSpiritWellness.org. Open Mic Night – 7-9pm, 3rd Saturday. Bring music printed out in your key and Kenneth Gartman will accompany you at the piano for your moment at the microphone. Comedians, poets, writers and musicians welcomed as well. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

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Natural Living Directory 2020

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