Natural Awakenings Fairfield County May 2016 by Natural Awakenings Magazine

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Special Edition

Women’s Wellness Turn-Ons for Your Libido Reboot Your Eating Habits Leaky Gut Syndrome Marie Kondo:

The Joy of Tidying Up

May 2016 | Fairfield County Edition | eNaturalAwakenings.com

The Natural Choice – The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center

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.

WholeBodyDentistry.com 203-371-0300

501 Kings Highway East, Suite 108, Fairfield CT

Doesn’t it make sense to see the authority?

The Natural Choice – The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center Caring Naturopathic Physicians Offering the Best in Holistic Healing

Our integrative approach treats a widerange of conditions including: ADD/ADHD Allergies Anxiety & Depression Autism Brain Injuries Candidiasis Chronic Fatigue (or Fatigue Concerns) Difficulty Concentrating Female Concerns Fibromaylgia

Gastrointestinal Concerns Healthy Aging Hormonal Issues Immune Disorders Lyme Disease RSD Sports Injuries Stress-related Symptoms Thyroid & Adrenal Issues Toxicities Weight Gain

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Whole-Body Medicine, LLC – The Natural Approach for Optimal Health Fairfield County Edition

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May 2016

contents PILATES | TEACHER TRAINING | MASSAGE | FELDENKRAIS At the Art of Control, every teacher has the expertise to deliver eﬃciency in each and every movement taught to give you suppleness, natural grace and skill that will be unmistakably reﬂected in the way you walk, play, and work.

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

24 TURN-ONS FOR YOUR LIBIDO

Natural Ways to Boost Desire by Lisa Marshall

30 MOTHER MATTERS Adjusting to Hormonal

Shifts During Pregnancy

by Risa M. Sloves

32 UNDERSTANDING

THYROID HORMONES

by Salvatore Fiorentino

40 LEAKY GUT SYNDROME

What Is It and Why Does It Matter? by Yufang Lin

42 SENIORS, TEENS AND TYKES

Clinics

Clinics Clinics

Enriching Programs Unite the Generations by Linda Sechrist

49 HOW TO REBOOT

YOUR EATING HABITS

Small Shifts Can Drop Pounds Your Partners in and Gain Health Health and Wellness. by Judith Fertig Your Partners in

Health and in Wellness. Your Partners Health and Wellness. The UB Clinics, located on the campus of the University of Bridgeport, are staffed by some of the brightest and most talented healthcare professionals of the future. Open to The UBthe Clinics, located on theaffordable, campus of the University of Bridgeport, are staffed the public, UB Clinics offer high quality care at a fraction of theby cost of some of and most talented professionals of thearefuture. to Thethe UBbrightest Clinics, located on the campushealthcare of the University of Bridgeport, staffedOpen by comparable treatments elsewhere. some of brightest mostaffordable, talented healthcare professionals future. of Open the public, thetheUB Clinicsand offer high quality care atofathe fraction thetocost of the public, the UB Clinics offer affordable, high quality care at a fraction of the cost of comparable treatments elsewhere.

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Fairfield County Edition

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52 MARIE KONDO: THE JOY OF TIDYING UP Simplicity Invites Happiness into Our Lives by April Thompson

54 TIPS FOR THE BEST YARD SALE EVER

How to Profitably Give Unwanted Stuff a New Life by Sarah Tarver-Wahlquist

58 SIX DIMENSIONS OF

WELLNESS FOR DOGS

by Mary Oquendo

7 newsbriefs 18 healthbriefs 20 globalbriefs 36 healingways 38 communityspotlight 40 productmarketplace 44 inspiration 46 fitbody 47 masteringyoga 48 inspiredtable 49 consciouseating 54 greenliving 56 naturallyhealthypet 54 59 petresourceguide 61 calendar 65 classifieds 65 resourceguide 70 displayadindex

Brookfield Craft Center’s

Hands-on art Summer Youth Program Summer Youth Programs for Ages 11-14 8 sessions in July and August Half-day programs in Ceramics, Drawing, Fiber Arts, Glass, Painting, Woodturning, Blacksmithing, and more. Scholarships are available. For more information, visit us at www.Brook�eldcraft.org Brookfield Craft Center 286 Whisconier �oad, Brook�eld, CT 06804 203.775.4526

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 12th 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 239-449-8309. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

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May 2016

letterfrompublisher

ay is Women’s Wellness month at Natural Awakenings. We are living in extraordinary times and women everywhere are sharing their wisdom, strength and faith in creating a better world even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles. As many amazing trailblazing women demonstrate every day, having a vision and believing in it can be enough to overcome a multitude of challenges such as lack of knowledge, uncertainty, doubting Thomases and limited resources.

contact us Publisher/Executive Editor Nicole Miale Editor Ariana Rawls Fine Design & Production Kathleen Fellows Erica Mills Contributing Writers Salvatore Fiorentino, Terry Hernon, Yufang Lin, Mary Oquendo Community Street Team Alix Bacher & Leslie McLean Sales & Marketing Alexa Ferrucci Nicole Miale Distribution Man in Motion LLC Natural Awakenings Fairfield County 54 Danbury Rd, Ste 323 Ridgefield, CT 06877 Phone: 203-885-4674 Fax: 203-516-2392 NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com eNaturalAwakenings.com NAWebstore.com NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com

In my role as publisher, I am truly blessed to meet and work with many unique, successful, brilliant women in our community. I am honored and grateNicole Miale ful to have this unending opportunity to both witness and support their endeavors, which also affords me inspiration when my own energy flags. In times of strength we know we are equipped to handle most anything thrown our way; we can recall this in times of travail if we maintain our inner grounding of peace and heart-centered consciousness. It’s not enough anymore to merely think our way through life. We make infinitely better choices when we connect our hearts and heads. This month, our articles focus on common concerns of women in our community, with a focus on hormones affecting various aspects of our beings and experience. As always, we provide insight, information and practical ideas to help you make changes you feel might be right for you. There are so many parts of the human body, mind, emotions and energy that can break down when attention is not paid to them. Being aligned with wellness rather than the illness model more commonly presented makes life not only easier but more enjoyable. Foster the positive rather than pushing against the negative. Seek out what contributes to your well-being, whether it is a thought, deed, people, supplements, products and/or services. In doing so, you honor yourself, which also nurtures others and creates healthier communities. Celebrate you and the women in your life!

© 2016 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available by sending $30 (for 12 issues) to the above address. Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soy-based ink.

Fairfield County Edition

See our advertiser index on page 70. Making it easier to find the resources you need.

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newsbriefs Appreciating Candlewood Lake in Images

Integrative Medicine and Wellness Services at New Milford Hospital 21 Elm Street, New Milford, CT

Reflexology and Massage Therapy

Gabrielle Cronin, LMT Reflexology $25/30 mins. Massage $45/45 mins. 860-210-5349

Strong Women Strong Bones™

Lisa Marie Lee, Certified Instructor $85/7 week session 860-614-1737

Hypnotherapy

Alexandra Chalif, MS, MP $40/30 minutes 203-910-7878

Stress Reduction and Relaxation Training

Veronica Kleeman $60/75 minute session One-on-one or group 860-567-4384

(Pay by cash or check at class)

Therapeutic Touch, Reiki Marcia Engle, QTTP $22/30 mins. 203-376-2703

Please call in credit card payment to 860-210-5349 or pay in person at the NMH Gift Shop at least 24 hours in advance.

andlewood Kiss: An Alternative View of a Beloved Lake, a photography exhibit by Elisabeth J. Levy, will be on display in Danbury through June 14. The exhibit is currently being shown at Hancock Hall; there will also be another exhibition at Escape to the Arts later this fall. The Hancock Hall Exhibition is part of the Cultural Alliance of Western Connecticut’s Accessible Art Series. Levy, a photographer known for her images of the natural world, has turned her camera towards a local treasure for these exhibits. Candlewood Lake, originally a product of human engineering, was built for the largely practical purposes of regulating water levels in the Housatonic River with the side effect of providing summertime recreational opportunities for residents of the five towns along its borders. Levy grew up spending summers on the lake and later lived there year-round. “I was relaxing at home one afternoon in mid-January when I looked outside and couldn’t believe how gorgeous the lake looked. I had marveled at its beauty countless times but this light and what it was doing to the water and the hills around it was beyond anything I had ever seen here before. I grabbed my camera and kept shooting until it got too dark. Then the next day I went out and shot again. It was about 24 hours of Candlewood Magic. It was my last winter on the lake and I felt like it was giving me a kiss good-bye, hence the title of the series,” says Levy. For more information, visit EJLPhoto.com or call 203794-9466. Contact the artist at Elisabeth@EJLPhoto.com or 914-261-3509. Hancock Hall location: 31 Staples St, Danbury.

GRAND OPENING!

Friday, May 13 5-8pm Saturday, May 14 12-6pm

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May 2016

newsbriefs

Focusing on the Lyme Epidemic

ind Matters Hypnosis Centers is offering a hypnosis certification course June 18 through 25 in North Branford. Registration for this session closes May 15. During eight full days of inperson training (plus home and group study), Lisa Zaccheo, MA, BCH, BCI, will teach attendees how to successfully hypnotize themselves and others. The Lisa Zaccheo course will cover the science behind hypnosis, who can and cannot be hypnotized, what it can be used for, and exactly how to use this technique that gives people access to the other 90 percent of the mind’s power. Becoming a certified hypnotist or hypnotherapist is an opportunity to start a new and fulfilling career for any that are feeling bored or unfulfilled in their current job. Mind Matters also offers hypnosis sessions at each of its three locations. Because the mind controls virtually everything in our lives, including perceptions, emotions, habits and behaviors, hypnosis has been proven highly effective at resolving many emotional and behavioral issues in adults and children. These include low self-confidence, stress, attention disorders, insomnia, pain management, phobias, and negative habits such as overeating, smoking, nail biting and much more.

yme Epidemic: Shining a Light on the Path Forward is the theme for the 10th Annual Lyme Connection patient conference and health fair scheduled for May 19 at Western Connecticut State University (WCSU). Free and open to the public, the educational event will be held in the Westside Student Center Ballroom. The evening’s keynote speaker will be Dr. Kenneth B. Liegner, a Lyme Kenneth B. Liegner disease expert and the author of the recently published book, In the Crucible of Chronic Lyme Disease. Pediatrician and Lyme disease specialist Dr. Charles Ray Jones will receive the group’s first Courage in Patient Care Award. No registration is required for this event. The evening begins at 5pm with a Lyme-focused health fair featuring tick control products and services, Lymeliterate practitioners, testing laboratories, and a wide range of manufacturers representing the latest developments in prevention and patient support services. Speaker presentations begin at 7pm and will conclude at 9:30pm following a question and answer session. This is the 10th annual event Lyme Connection (formerly known as the Ridgefield Lyme Disease Task Force) has held at WCSU and marks the 13th year the group has provided education, patient support and advocacy in the Greater Danbury area. Event sponsors include BugBeWear.com, Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, IGeneX, Inc., NutraMedix, Patient Care America, Select TCS Tick Control System and Smart Revenue.

Cost: $2,489. For more information, call Lisa at 860-6936448 or visit Bit.ly/CERTCOURSE. Mind Matters Hypnosis Centers has locations in Avon, Rocky Hill and Guilford.

For additional information, visit LymeConnection.org or Facebook.com/LymeConnection. Location: WestConn Westside Student Center, 43 Lake Ave Extension, Danbury.

Certification Course in Hypnosis

Connecticut’s Largest Organic Mattress Gallery Every mattress in our Carpe Diem and Terra Bed Collections is made entirely by hand using only natural filling materials. Our mattresses are backed by a 25 year warranty and are designed to offer you a great value and return on your investment. Please stop in and try one for yourself. We think you will be very impressed. Norwalk 508 Main Avenue 203.846.2233

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Fairfield County Edition

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Giving Back Locally with Hazel Daze Boutique

Victoria F. Shaw, PhD, LPC

Intuitive & Consultant LPC Shaw, PhD, F.Psychotherapist Victoria

Intuitive Psychotherapist & Consultant Combining the best of traditional

psychotherapy with intuitive guidance in Combining the best of traditional psychotherapy with working with children, teens and adults. intuitive guidance in working with children, teens and adults. Offices in Wilton, Westport and Fairfield. Offices in Wilton, Westport and Fairfield. www.victoriashawpsychotherapy.com

azel Daze Boutique will be participating in several local events to strengthen and support the town of Fairfield. These include The Dogwood Festival on May 6, 7 and 8, and The Fairfield Chamber of Commerce Market on the Green on June 11 and 12. In addition, the store has released its Mother’s Day Gift Guide, which offers suggestions for eco-minded and natural presents. “Yoga Mom”: Balance her mind, body and soul • Lotus flower Aromathera wood & bead bracelets • Colorful yoga mat bags made in India Yoga/active tops made from organic cotton “Nature-Loving Mom”: Bring the nature to her • Capiz shell and sea glass wind chimes •Bamboo trays and mango wood candle holders • Wood wick soy candles & pure essential oils and body care “Retro Mom”: A blast from her past • Handmade jewelry from antique flatware • Mirrors & bowls made from LP vinyl Canvas photographs from vintage postcards Opened in 2012, Hazel Daze Boutique supports Fair Trade artists from around the world, as well as local artists. Works of art include hand-crafted jewelry and clothing, beeswax candles, perfumes and lotions and hand-carved trays and salad bowls. The boutique also hosts Community Give-Back Nights every month with wine, cheese and music. A percentage of all sales go to the organization of choice. They most often support education, refugee and environmentally based charities. For more information, visit HazelDaze.com or call 203-292-9662. Location: Hazel Daze Boutique, 86 Post Rd, Fairfield.

HVWS_kindermorning_05252016_NatAwake_4.75x4.5_HVS PM K_CT par 2007 4/11/16 6:39 PM Pa

KINDERMORNING

www.victoriashawintuitive.com VictoriaShawPsychotherapy.com • VictoriaShawIntuitive.com 203-254-3403 •• vfshawphd@gmail.com 203-254-3403 vfshawphd@gmail.com

Parents are invited to sample a Waldorf preschool/kindergarten class with their 3-5 year-old child.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 25th from 9:00 am - 11:30 am Research shows that children learn best through playful, hands-on experiences with natural materials and engaging, caring adults.

40 Dodgingtown Road Newtown, CT 06470 Accredited by CAIS and AWSNA

Please RSVP: www.waldorfct.org/visit or call 203.364.1113

MARY GILBERTSON MS, BSN, RN, CHHC

Nurse, Nutritionist & Healthy Lifestyle Coach

Prescription 4 Wellness

203-521-4733 Serving Fairfield County! healthylife@prescription4wellness.com www.Prescription4Wellness.com

eNaturalAwakenings.com

May 2016

145 Grassy Plain St. Bethel, CT

newsbriefs Spring ‘Fresh Start’ with Shalva

Soul Focus Mela Rispoli 203-570-3868 mrispoli2@aol.com

HEDGE HEDGE

TRIMMING TRIMMING by THOMAS By Thomas

203-790-6741 Danbury & Surrounding Towns

Family and Child Psychotherapy Support and Guidance • Divorce Anxiety • Parent/Child Conﬂict Attachment and Bonding • Trauma • Grief Professional/Executive Coaching

Robin Ordan, LCSW 203-561-8535

www.robinordanlcsw.com

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Located on the Old Greenwich/Stamford Border

Deana Paqua, MA, LMT

spiritual teacher, holistic health educator, shamanic healer and reiki master teacher

Spiritual, cross-cultural and holistic health education for healers and spiritual seekers... transform trauma into triumph, heal yourself and make a difference.

ridgefield & new milford ct

www.embodythesacred.net

Fairfield County Edition

deana.paqua@gmail.com Ph. 203.994.5045 natural awakenings

estport’s Shalva Clinic will hold its third seasonal open house on May 20 from 4 to 8pm. The clinic’s naturopathic doctors are offering free 15-minute cardiometabolic consults, along with demonstrations by an integrative nutrition health coach, master herbalist and massage therapist. Registration is required for the consults; register for a time slot at ShalvaClinic.org. The Fresh Start Open House is free to the public, and includes healthy bites and beverages, raffles and prizes. Participants will engage in herbal medicine demonstrations and take home recipes to support health and well-being. The open house talks include: • Learn to Make Your Own Heart Health Tincture Using Herbs and Garden Weeds (4:30 pm) • Stay Full with this Protein Packed Super Smoothie! A Demonstration & Sampling (5 pm) • Lower Blood Pressure With These 3 Things: Nutrition, Herbs, and Homeopathy (5:30 pm) • The Most Important Risk Factors for Heart Health (6 pm) • Natural Approaches to High Cholesterol: Kick the Statins (6:30 pm) • Satisfy Your Dessert Craving with Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding! A Demonstration & Sampling (7 pm) • Learn to Make Your Own Heart Health Tincture using Herbs and Garden Weeds (7:30 pm) “Spring is a wonderful time to recommit to your health,” says Ellen Lewis, ND, founder of Shalva Clinic. “The days are getting longer so there’s more time to be active, and there are more fresh foods available; both are important boosts to cardiovascular health. Shalva Clinic has a strong focus on healthy hearts, because heart disease is the leading cause of death in both men and women. In fact, heart disease kills five times more women than breast cancer.” For more information, a list of services and providers, and to subscribe to the clinic’s newsletter, visit ShalvaClinic.org. Location: Shalva Clinic, 8 Lincoln St, Westport. See ad, page 71.

One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well. ~Virginia Woolf

7eFit Spa Expands Services in New Location

tamford’s 7eFit Spa has moved down the street on High Ridge Road in Stamford. Their new, larger space will allow them to provide an expanded portfolio of aesthetic services and non-invasive techniques supporting mind and body wellness. The grand opening in the new space will be, May 13 from 5-8pm and May 14 from noon-6pm. 7e Fit Spa’s regular service offerings include anti-aging and oxygen facials with oxygen aromatherapy, Myolift and Torc Plus, also available with oxygen therapy, is an FDAcleared bioelectric stimulation targeting muscle stimulation for tightening, toning, cellulite reduction and inch loss. In addition, visitors can enjoy infrared sauna, Reiki and the DietMaster personal weight loss program. New services to be offered in the new space include Calvi-Lipo; various types of massage therapy; teeth whitening; Myocalme for insomnia, stress and depression; and Vibra Fit. Founder Tracey Scalzi, a long-time Stamford resident and business owner, opened 7eFitSpa last fall because she wanted a new business dedicated to helping people look and feel their best. For more information, visit 7eFitSpa.com, email 7eFitSpaCT1@gmail.com or call 203-356-5822. Location: 1492 High Ridge Rd, Stamford. See ad, page 7.

Find Us Outside Introduces Nature-Based Preschool

indUsOutside.Org has launched its new Forest Kinder School to help three to seven-year-olds acquire the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in a world where change is constant and learning never stops. “Our goal is to instill a love of learning through a nature immersion program. The vision is to build a holistic learning community that supports healthy growth for young children. We encourage each child to develop socially, emotionally and physically through play and nature education, guided by our skilled professionals who respect and enjoy working with children. They are required to have a combination of professional training and job experience,” says Director Nancy Schutts, who is also an educator at Forest Kinder School. The school has a low student-to-teacher ratio with an average of one teacher for every four students. With its focus on the natural world, nature is brought into the indoor classroom while the wealth of materials in the forest and the changing seasons are part of the outdoor classroom. In addition, the school offers developmental experiences that allow the time for a successful transition into formal education. To learn more about Forest Kinder School of Newtown, visit FindUsOutside.org.

DID YOU REALIZE THAT

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Look Fabulous without Surgery or Injections Natural Beauty Spa specializes in today’s latest skin rejuvenation. Come in for a FREE CONSULTATION and speak with one of our experts on how we can help you feel your best. Anti-aging and Acne Treatment, Massage, Facial, Hair Removal, Acupuncture, Lymphatic Drainage, VelaShape for Cellulite Treatment and more.

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newsbriefs Medicinal Skin Celebrating Anniversary

olly Arrindell, owner of Medicinal Skin in Ridgefield, is excited to celebrate the practice’s one-year anniversary. Over the past year, Medicinal Skin has collaborated with other local health professionals to bring health, wellness and beauty to those in the Ridgefield community and beyond. “It has been a great first year! Holly Arrindell and We’d like to thank our clients, friends Valerie Albanesi and family who have supported us Swenson over this past year,” Arrindell said. Arrindell is a licensed esthetician and massage therapist in Connecticut and New York. Born and raised in England, Holly attended East Surrey College and graduated with a Beauty Therapy diploma in 1991. She also graduated from Connecticut Center for Massage Therapy in 1996. Since then, Holly has worked at some of the top spas in Connecticut and New York, including Noelle, Oasis, Edamame Maternity Spa and Great Jones Spa. Valerie Albanesi Swenson, a native Ridgefielder, is an esthetician who was educated at Marinello Beauty School. She focuses on peels and microdermabrasion and is now certified in Reiki I. For more information on services and specials, visit MedicinalSkin.com or Facebook.com/MedicinalSkin, or call 203-244-5771. Location: Medicinal Skin, 412 Main St, Ridgefield.

Reader Feedback Helps Us Grow

T ~ equestrian gifts ~ pottery ~ buddas ~ crystals of all sizes ~ books ~ angels

Touch of Sedona A unique boutique with a heartfelt purpose

203-438-7146

452 Main Street, Ridgefield

touchofsedonaridgefield.com 12

Fairfield County Edition

Open Every Day Until 5:30

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he Natural Awakenings online national readership survey allows us to better serve readers. “Your participation takes just two minutes, and will give us a better understanding of what you need and how well we’re delivering on your expectations,” says founding CEO Sharon Bruckman. “We’ll also use your responses to help guide the direction of future development.” One participant, selected at random, will receive a $50 credit at the Natural Awakenings web store (ShopNaturalAwakenings.com). With the interests and welfare of readers in mind, Natural Awakenings provides information and resources for living a healthier, happier life. Now publishing in more than 95 communities nationwide, as well as Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, Natural Awakenings is the country’s most widely read healthy living magazine, with a loyal monthly readership of almost 4 million and growing. Visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com and select the Take Our Survey banner. See ad, page 26.

First Anniversary Celebration at Turning Point

n April 13, Turning Point Healing Arts & Education Center celebrated its first anniversary with a Ridgefield Chamber of Commerce event. Chair massage, essential oils, special Brenda, Mary Beth, Deana, offers and refreshments JoAnn, Valerie and Stacy were provided. Turning Point Reiki, LLC’s JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT, founded the center in January 2015 and co-organized a wellness open house for multiple HEALING ARTS & healing arts practitioners in April EDUCATION CENTER 2015. Including Duncan, over the Heal. Enlighten. Renew. past year the center has grown to include six practitioners on its healing team: Mary Beth Johnston, LMT, RMT; Deana Paqua, MA, LMT; Stacy Raymond, PsyD; Valerie Rich, (AmSAT), RM; and Brenda Story, RMT. For information about services, practitioners, teachers, classes and workshops, visit TurningPointReiki.com, the Turning Point Healing Arts page and Google Calendar at TurningPointShare.com, or visit Turning Point Healing Arts, LLC on Facebook. Location: 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. See ad, page 18.

New Director and Facilities for X to RAYS

to Rays Thermal Imaging, LLC announced that its Fairfield division is now under the direction of Rachel Mazzarelli, MS, CCT. She has a master’s in nutrition, is a board certified clinical thermographer, and has been a healthcare practitioner for many years. Thermal imaging—also known as a thermogram—is a non-invasive technology safe for monitoring breast Rachel Mazzarelli and body health without using radiation or compression. Demand has been increasing and, as a result, Mazzarelli has opened new facilities in Fairfield, Greenwich, New Canaan, Stamford and Ridgefield. “Women really appreciate that besides getting the earliest detection, they also get analysis on estrogen dominance, lymph congestion and possible thyroid dysfunction. This allows them to initiate healthy changes and see the positive results by the next scanning,” explains Mazzarelli. For more information or to book an appointment, call 203-257-3785. For general information and locations, visit XtoRays.com.

Dr. Guerin introduces...

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May 2016

newsbriefs

Forza 5 Flourishing in Wilton’s Cannondale Village

New Naturopathic Practice Opens in Stamford

hose searching for effective, alternative medical treatments for everything from digestive issues and anxiety to chronic disease will be happy to learn a new naturopathic practice has opened in Stamford. Revitalize Wellness Center, LLC, with Nina Manipon, ND, at the helm, is open five days a week. “We are a naturopathic medical practice and our focus is on serving Nina Manipon families, working moms and working professionals,” says Manipon, a licensed naturopathic physician. She treats patients for the basic cold, flu and seasonal allergies in addition to a range of conditions including thyroid disorders, metabolic syndrome, diabetes and chronic pain. She has extensive experience in women’s health. Manipon received her medical degree from Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in Tempe, Arizona, and completed a general family practice residency at The University of Bridgeport College of Naturopathic Medicine. She received her undergraduate degree from Villanova University. For more information or to make an appointment, visit RevitalizeWellnessCenter.squarespace.com. Location: 76 Progress Dr, Medical Ste 218K, Stamford.

People may hear your words, but they feel your attitude. ~John C. Maxwell

orza 5 Holistic & Healing Center moved to Wilton last fall and is now offering an array of services and products for the community. Part shop, part studio, part healing center, Forza 5 was conceived by founder Lisa Tenore as a community-gathering spot for like-minded people. “I built this business but it’s everyone’s space,” Tenore explains. “No matter who you are and what you’re going through, you’re not alone. This space is to connect and help bring people back to consciousness.” The downstairs of the main building is a combination tea bar, shop and healing space offering herbs, oils, tinctures, a lending library and an array of goods for purchase. Many decorative and apparel items are repurposed from their original form. Upstairs is a yoga and meditation studio, also the site of workshops and classes led by area practitioners. A separate building across the driveway is a healing space with a view of the river; this space is available for interested practitioners to rent as needed. Free meditations are offered Sunday mornings at 8:30am followed by family yoga class at 11:30am. Tuesday nights feature regular meeting groups for families and individuals struggling with addiction, followed by yoga instruction. Tenore is a licensed physical trainer, Reiki practitioner, shamanic healer and yoga teacher. To find out what workshops, classes and activities she and others are planning at Forza 5, check their website regularly. For more information call 203-247-4175, visit ForzaFive.com Our mission is to continually or email ForzaFive1047@gmail.com. Location: discover, demon 26 Cannon Road, Cannondale Village, Wilton.of Good is God w and educate that our source

Discover the Power Within You NICE PEOPLE GREAT MUSIC UPLIFITING EXPERIENCE INSPIRATIONAL MESSAGE LIMITLESS POSSIBILITIES

Celebration Service Sundays at 10:30 am 3 Main Street, 2nd Floor Norwalk, CT 06851 (203) 855-7922 www.unitycenternorwalk.org

Metaphysics One - May 3rd at 7:00 pm Open Mic Night - May 21st at 7:00 pm Sing Your Heart Out: A Cabaret Performance - May 6th at 8 pm

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Rev. Shawn Moninger, Unity Minister

Black Rock Holistic Center Welcomes Corinne Vizzo

orinne Vizzo, LMT, has opened a new massage therapy practice in the Black Rock Holistic Health Center in Fairfield. Vizzo is a graduate of the Connecticut Center for Massage Therapy, a Connecticut licensed massage therapist, and an active American Massage Therapy Association member in good standing. Black Rock Holistic Health Corinne Vizzo Center, led by Chiropractic Physician Kristine DeMarco, offers a holistic approach to the treatment of acute and chronic pain. DeMarco and Vizzo are certified in many techniques, enabling them to tailor therapy to the patient’s needs, sometimes combining more than one therapy to achieve a pain-free, improved quality of life. For more information, email CorinneVizzo@yahoo.com or call 203-615-4045. Location: Black Rock Holistic Health Center, 825 King’s Hwy East, Fairfield.

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one-day Chakra Healing and Meditation 101 workshop is being offered as an opportunity to nourish oneself, with guidance from an expert from India, Smita Jayakar. Learn about the chakra system and techniques to tune in to and open up the seven energy centers of the subtle body for a more vibrant and balanced mind, body and soul. The workshop will take place May 21 from 9:30am to 4:30pm; it is presented by Transcend Horizons LLC and YWCA Greenwich. The program will include detailed teaching about the chakras, an introduction about hand and foot chakras, exercises for all chakras, a chakra meditation, grounding of the root chakra, aura shielding and hands-on healing. Attendees will get the chance to learn from an expert from India with 30 years of experience on chakra healing and go home with practice techniques. Jayakar is an Indian cinema actress and chakra meditation expert. She is a certified Reiki grand master, and is also certified in yoga, kundalini energy, advanced pranic healing and other modalities. The $150 workshop fee includes lunch and tea. A certification will be given by Maithri Bodh, India (MaitriBodh.org) upon completion of the one-day workshop. To reserve a spot, book a ticket at Transcend.Events/. Location: YWCA Greenwich, 259 East Putnam Ave, Greenwich.

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atural Awakenings Publishing Corp. (NAPC) welcomed five new publishers to its April training session at the corporate headquarters in Naples, Florida. The staff spent several days with these entrepreneurs, discussing the ins and outs of publishing new Natural Awakenings editions in Boulder/ Fort Collins, Colorado, and Delaware/Chester County, Pennsylvania, and taking ownership of existing magazines in Charlotte, North Carolina; Charleston, South Carolina; and Portland, Oregon/Vancouver, Washington. Founded by Chief Executive Officer Sharon Bruckman with a single edition in Naples in 1994, Natural Awakenings has grown to become one of the largest, free, local, healthy living publications in the world. Franchise publishers collectively serve nearly 4 million readers each month via 95 magazines published in cities across the U.S., Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. “Living a conscious lifestyle that supports our well-being and the sustainability of Planet Earth has become more important than ever,” says Bruckman. “Our dedicated family of publishers, supported by local advertisers, connects readers with the resources they need to create a healthier, happier world that works for all living things.”

n intercommunity event will be offered on May 14 from 10:45am to 4:45pm with healing practitioners, change agents, consciousness speakers, musicians, mystic poets, storytellers and over 30 presenters from the Tri-State area. The Change–Changing–Changed event, taking place at the Wainwright House in Rye, New York, is the launch event for Coalition of Co-Creators. Coalition of Co-Creators is a group of individuals and organizations in Connecticut, New York and New Jersey that are dedicated to promoting intercommunity conscious culture by co-creating innovative events that involve, inform, inspire, connect and evolve our communities. The group promotes the messages of local spiritual leaders, organizations, practitioners, teachers, healers, change agents and others in the spiritual community. The mission also revolves around collaborating with the global movement for a shift in consciousness. Tickets are $33 online and $45 at the door. The event is sponsored by Vistar Foundation and Wainwright House in conjunction with Total Life Care Center, Natural Awakenings Magazine, New Equations, Earth Smart LLC, Insight Oasis, New Realities TV, Reggie Marr, Art Soul, Ken Sprano, Heart of the Healer and The Graduate Institute. For reservations and more information, visit Wainwright.org/Events.htm or VistarFoundation.org, email Info@VistarFoundation.org or call 914-967-6080. Location: Wainwright House, 260 Stuyvesant Ave, Rye, NY. See ad, page 21.

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healthbriefs

The Missing Link: Inflammation and Depression in Women

ntidepressant drug use is on the rise, particularly among women. A report released by Medco Health Solutions analyzed prescription claims data from 2.5 million Americans between 2001 and 2010 and found that 25 percent of women take drugs for a mental health condition. Despite a mainstream medicine notion that depression is caused by a chemical imbalance, medications known by familiar names such as Zoloft and Prozac meant to counter symptoms of such an imbalance may instead be causing a host of known harmful side effects. “In six decades, not a single study has proven that depression is caused by a chemical imbalance,” asserts Dr. Kelly Brogan, an integrative physician, women’s health advocate and pioneer in holistic psychiatry. A study published in the journal JAMA Psychiatry in 2014 reviewed 10 randomized, placebo-controlled trials to assess the effectiveness of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) in adults with symptoms of depression. The researchers from Aarhus University, in Denmark, found that treating inflammation in patients helped decrease their symptoms. Brogan asserts that this approach is the best way to treat depression in women, advocating the use of a holistic anti-inflammation strategy instead of NSAIDs or antidepressants. “A more effective, drug-free approach is to recruit basic lifestyle changes that kick-start the body’s self-healing mechanisms, helping to curtail the symptoms of depression,” she claims. Her suggestions include dietary modification; simple breathing and meditation techniques; minimizing exposure to biology-disrupting toxins that include common over-the-counter drugs; sufficient sleep and exercise. “Medical literature has emphasized the role of inflammation in mental illness for more than 20 years, so if you think a chemical pill can save, cure or correct you, think again,” says Brogan. “Covering over symptoms is a missed opportunity to resolve the root cause of the problem.” For more information, visit KellyBroganMD.com.

Legumes Keep Colorectal Cancer at Bay

orean medical school scientists have found that those eating more legumes have a significantly reduced risk of colorectal cancer. Their research analyzed the diets of 3,740 people, including 901 colorectal cancer patients. A total of 106 different foods were graded and calculated to establish frequency of intake among the study participants. The group that consumed the highest amounts of legumes had more than a 50 percent drop in incidence of colorectal cancer. As legume consumption increased, colorectal cancer risk decreased. The researchers attributed the dramatic reduction in risk to the intake of isoflavones, contained in many nuts and beans. When intakes of total isoflavones were calculated, those with diets that contained the highest levels reduced their colorectal cancer risk, by 33 percent in men and 35 percent in women. The researchers reported, “The reduced risks for colorectal cancer among high-intake groups were most consistent for legumes and sprouts.”

JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT Founder and Reiki Master Teacher, ph. 203-438-3050 Mary Beth Johnston, LMT, RMT Licensed Massage Therapist and Reiki Master, ph. 914-419-7961

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Fairfield County Edition

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Deana Paqua, MA, LMT Shamanic Healer and Teacher, ph. 203-994-5045 Stacy Raymond, Psy.D. Clinical Psychologist/EMDR Practitioner, ph. 203-493-0344 Valerie Rich, (AmSAT), RM Yoga and Alexander Technique Teacher, ph. 203-482-2278 Brenda Story, RMT Reiki Master/IET® Teacher, ph. 203-948-0841

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esearch presented at the annual www.AcupunctureHealingCT.com | Locations in Norwalk, Trumbull, and Southport, CT meeting of the American Society of Anesthesiologists has found that magnesium reduces fevers during childbirth, as well as complications among newborns. The study followed Beautiful Color Shouldn't Be Hazardous To Your Health 63,000 deliveries from Northwestern Memorial Hospital, in Chicago, beThe best thing about our products is what we leave out! tween 2007 and 2014. Of these, 6,163 women developed fevers of at least No Ammonia • No Parabens 100.4° F during labor. Of the women No Scalp Staining • No Scalp Discomfort that developed fevers, 2,190 received Best Eco Salon magnesium sulfate intravenously during their labor. 838 Main Street • Monroe • Tollgate Plaza Rates of fever at maternity dropped Tues & Fri 9-5 • Wed & Thur 9-8 • Sat 8-4 by half, to 4.3 percent, in women that 203-261-2838 received the magnesium, versus 9.9 SalonAponte.com make-up percent in those that did not. The rate of newborn complications was also significantly lower among women given magnesium. The study, led by Dr. Elizabeth Lose 3-9 Inches in 9 Sessions Lipo-Light the new nonsurgical state-of-the-art Lange, an attending physician at isNorth20 Minute Sessions • Super Safe technology alternative to Liposuction. It is western Memorial Hospital, is the first Non-Invasive • No Pain completely non-invasive, does not cause any No Downtime • No Side Effects of its kind to investigate the effect of discomfort, and no down time. magnesium on childbirth. “By reducing the incidence of maternal fever, It is based on the principle of magnesium sulfate therapy may also biophotomodulation. Infrared light at 635 nanometers is absorbed by reduce the incidence of complications in newborns,” says Lange.fat cells causing the cell’s pores to open and excrete the fatty acid contents into the surrounding fluid. The fat is taken away by the lymphatic system and consumed by body metabolism. The result is immediate loss of inches. beauty

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The Historic Congressional Cemetery, permanent resting place of J. Edgar Hoover, John Philip Sousa and 68,000 others, is threatened by invasive species such as poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, kudzu and English ivy. “They are plants not native to Washington, D.C.,” says Paul Williams, president of the cemetery. “They climb and kill our trees, which then fall onto the cemetery, damaging our headstones.” Instead of using harmful herbicides that could become runoff into the nearby Anacostia River, managers have enlisted a herd of 30 goats to combat the problem. The arrangement lets the native plants grow to support pollinating insects. The University of Georgia’s Chew Crew, comprising 40 goats, is likewise tasked with getting rid of invasive species growing around urban streams on its campus, another example of the elegant, low-tech solution. Maintaining steep inclines and other hard-to-reach areas can be expensive when using toxic herbicides and physical labor. After seeing the success of the Chew Crew, Clemson University is now also using goats to naturally recover some of the more overgrown areas of its campus. Source: CNN

Women Power

Feminists Redefine Senior Housing

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Fifteen years in the making, the Babayagas’ House—a feminist alternative to a retirement home—has opened in Paris. This self-managed social housing project is run by its community of inspired female senior citizens that want to maintain their independence. “To live long is a good thing, but to age well is better,” says 85-year-old Thérèse Clerc, who initially conceived the project as a means of combating the idea that growing old is an illness and that retirement homes are a kind of prison. “We want to change the way people see old age, and that means learning to live differently,” she says. The five-story building houses 25 apartments located at the center of Montreuil, just blocks away from shops, a movie theater and the metro. The project cost just under $4.4 million and was funded by eight public sources, including the city council. Two similar projects are now underway in Palaiseau and Bagneux.

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Held in the stunning sacred setting of the Beauty that is Wainwright House in Rye, New York. Enjoy the breath taking views, stroll the meditation Garden, Bring a picnic lunch (food trucks on grounds)

WE’LL WE”LL SEE SEE YOU YOU THERE! THERE! Ron and Victoria Friedman, co-founders of Vistar Foundation

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May 2016 2016 May

21 21

Most of Your Health is in Your Mind, Not Your Genes by Lisa Zaccheo

ince our first physical exam as babies, we’ve gone to doctors who have been trained to ask for our family history. It seemed they were letting us know from the beginning that if our parents or grandparents had a

certain disease, we were likely to get it because it’s in our DNA. We grew up believing that just as physical traits such as height, eye color or body type are passed down, so are life-threatening diseases.

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Please consider the idea that your health future is not in your genes, it’s in your mind. Dr. Bruce Lipton, a biologist and the author of The Biology of Belief and The Wisdom of Our Cells, has dedicated his life to the practice of moving us from the science of being the victims of our genes to a science where we are the creators of our health. Through his years of intense study, backed up by in-lab experiments, he saw that it was what is going on outside the cell—rather than inside the cell—that dictates its health. Each one of us is a community of 50 trillion living cells. The harmony of those cells is our health and conflict amongst those cells is our “dis-ease”. The “old” science states that the nucleus of the cell and the DNA within are the brain of the cell, dictating the health or disease of that cell. Our entire medical model in fact, is still based on this science. We go to the doctor and are told that, in essence, there’s something wrong with our biochemistry or our genes, which can be modified through pharmaceutical drugs to bring about health. We are not told that for a drug to work, our bodies need to have a receptor for that drug; if our bodies have a receptor, they also have the ability to create a natural version of that drug that has no side effects. Can it be then that the brain of the cell is the cell membrane? According to Lipton, it is the same as a computer chip. And much like a computer, the operation of our cells is not determined by their program, but rather by the person or environment interacting with that program. Lipton states, “The cell membrane perceives environmental signals and transforms them into biological signals.” Take a minute and experience this for yourself. Imagine you have two pieces of fruit in front of you—one is a lemon and the other is your favorite fruit. Imagine cutting the lemon into quarters and taking a big bite. What happens to your body? Does your jaw get tight, do your lips pucker, and are you salivating more? There will be a biological response. In fact your

biological response will directly correlate to the strength of your imagination. Notice how differently your body responds to your favorite fruit. This simple example is proof positive that our biology changes according to our perceptions. Every thought, every belief impacts our health in either or positive or negative way. They make us stronger or weaker. So what does any of this have to do with hypnosis? It’s very simple. To create health we need to change our perceptions, not our genes. Hypnosis is a fast and efficient way to do so. We have the absolute power to let go of all the old misperceptions that have caused our dis-ease—including the one that says we’re doomed because of our genes—and choose new perceptions that will shift us into health on all levels. There are countless cases of disease that have corrected as a result of changes in the mind, including asthma, allergies, IBS, migraines, Crohn’s disease, cancer, hot flashes, diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. This includes many diseases people have been told are incurable. The mind is infinitely powerful and hypnosis can help you access your inner physician to heal and maintain health going forward. Lisa Zaccheo, MA, BCH, BC, is the owner, lead hypnotist and hypnosis instructor at Mind Matters Hypnosis Centers located in Avon, Guilford and North Branford. For more information, or to schedule a lecture, workshop or appointment, call Mind Matters Hypnosis Center at 860-693-6448 or visit MindMattersHypnosis.com. Learn how you can take control of your health with hypnosis by joining Lisa Zaccheo, MA, BCH, BCI, at The Graduate Institute in Bethany CT on May 19 from 7-8:30pm. The Graduate Institute is an accredited, nonprofit institution of higher education that focuses on holistic, transformative education. It is dedicated to making education convenient, affordable, and highly supportive of personal goals. See ad, page 60.

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survey of 32,000 women published Shamanic Healing in the journal Retreat Obstetrics & Gynecology. About one in eight women are in Redding

significantly oin shamanic practitioners and distressed about it. “The truth is, many of us don’t have great teachers Deana Paqua and Jessica sex lives,” confirms Clayton. Hunter for a day of shamanic healing Sprout Pharmaceuticals introfor gratitude, transformation, abuntamford has duced Addyi, aka filbanserin, last fall; dance, discovery and enlightenment. a new option the first prescription drug to address This all-day healing retreat is open for those seeking low libido in women. Some heralded by Lisa Marshall to anyone and all levels who wish to look and feel the controversial medication as “the to learn more about shamanism and their best during little pink pill,” seeing it as the female ™ shamanic healing practices and techthe holiday seaversion of males’ blue Viagra pill, niques that can be incorporated into son and beyond. 7eFit Spa has opened on High Ridge Road, Deana Paqua which and a half-million men purchased daily life for transformation posioffering a variety of aesthetic services and non-invasive techin its tive changes. The event willfirst be month held at on the market in niques to support mind and body wellness. An open house is 1998. Yet several the sanctuary at The Redding Center months after its scheduled for November 22 from noon to 7pm. launch, only about 1,000 women had for Meditation on November 14 from The regular service offerings—which will be available as tried Addyi and many doctors deRelax while our sessions technology 10am to 5pm. brief demonstration during the open house—include clined to prescribe . does work A variety of techniques and teach- it, due to its lack of anti-aging andthe oxygen facials with oxygen therapy, Torc Plus biowidespread efficacy and possible adNoelectric surgery or invasive ings will be incorporated throughout stimulation for procedures. targeted muscle activation (also available verse side effects, including low blood Infrared Sauna therapy) • Micro-dermabrasion with oxygen and weight loss, infrared sauna for detoxifi- the day, including shamanic journey pressure and fainting when combined Myolift • Torc Body Waxing personal weight loss program. work, shamanic ceremonies, crystal cation, Reiki and• the DietMaster with alcohol. Diet Master • Oxygen Bar • Reiki The Torc Plus has been FDA-cleared and is known to be healing, various spirit medicine healing techniques “This is a for complex problem that Dermalogica Facials • Oxygen Facials teachings and shamanic effective for muscle tightening, toning, cellulite reduction Jessica Hunter requires a complex solution,” says clearing and manifestation practices. and inchTeeth loss.Whitening Honolulu-based naturopathic phyPaqua and Hunter bring a unique and informative combinaSave Tracey Now with Founder Scalzi, a long-time Stamford resident sician Laurie Steelsmith, author of Introductory Prices! tion of shamanic healing and teachings to their gatherings. and business owner, decided to open 7eFitSpa because she Great Sex Naturally: Every Woman’s specializes in Andean and South American shaCall 203-356-5822 wanted a new business to helping people look professor,Paqua ginia psychiatry neurologist nderlying health dedicated issues aside, Guide to Enhancing Her Sexuality manic traditions, and feela their best. The spa had a with soft opening in June of butSatisfaction: Women, while Hunter focuses on North American and author 1092 High Ridgeschedule Road | Stamford, CT 06905 hectic packed Through the Natural Medishamanic traditions. Together, theySecrets provideofeducational and was fully operational with equipment and 7efitspact1@gmail.com | all www.7efitspa.com Sex,services and theavailQuest for Intimacy. work deadlines, kids’ sportcine. “For most women, drugs are not inspirational shamanic gatherings that encompass a variety ableevents in mid-September. Despite what hyper-seductive ing and household chores can the answer.” Sheofnotes that for men, of teachings and a global connection a variety of Shafemale media stereotypes suggest we leave little time for intimacy. Letting boosting libido is largely a matter of manic Healing practices. For more information, visit thein the real world, 39 percent that pattern go on too visit long7eLLC.com can be- andbelieve, boosting circulation and blood flow to Stamford location,“There’s email 7eFitSpaCT1@gmail.com or feel call they lack sex drive, and of women come a problem. a use-it-orpenis. But for women, desire For more information,the visit EmbodytheSacred.net and for 203-356-5822. Location: 1092 High Ridge Rd, Stamford lose-it phenomenon that occurs,” says nearly half experience some kind of lovemaking stems from an interplay HunterHealingHands.com. See ads, pages 10 and 20. (inside Salon Cheveaux). See ad, Dr. Anita Clayton, a University ofpage Vir- 15.sexual dissatisfaction, according to a of emotional, interpersonal, hormonal

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and anatomical drivers that make lack of desire harder to “treat”. The truth is that many simple, effective, non-drug approaches exist. As Boulder, Colorado, marriage therapist Michele Weiner Davis puts it, “There’s no reason why a woman wanting a more robust sex life cannot have one.”

Overall Health Check

The number one culprit for low libido in women is subpar physical health, says Steelsmith. “To be capable of fully enjoying pleasure, you need a healthy body.” Carrying excess weight can both erode self-esteem and lead to reductions in a woman’s natural circulating testosterone, a critical hormone that helps ignite pleasure circuits in the female brain and increase sensitivity in the clitoris. Being underweight can result in fatigue and low sexual energy, diminished production of excitatory brain chemicals and low levels of estrogen, key for keeping a woman moist.

Meanwhile, Steelsmith explains, excess stress can prompt the body to “steal” from libido-boosting hormones like progesterone in order to make more of the stress-hormone cortisol. High blood sugar can drive down testosterone, while high cholesterol can clog pelvic blood vessels, dulling sensation. Depression, diabetes and thyroid disorders are other major libido killers, says Clayton. “If you treat them effectively, you may see big improvements.” Women seeking to improve their sexual health should first try to achieve a healthy weight via diet and exercise, Steelsmith says. She recommends an organic diet rich in complex carbohydrates (which keep

blood sugar balanced), lean protein (a precursor to desire-related neurotransmitters) and good fats (which help keep vulval tissues lubricated). Exercise—another circulation booster—is also key. Do it before a scheduled hot date for even better results. One 2014 study of 52 women found that those that worked out prior to an anticipated romantic encounter had significantly increased sexual desire.

Pamper Femaleness

Many women avoid sexual encounters for fear of sparking a urinary tract or vaginal infection. This becomes more common after age 40, as estrogen wanes and pelvic tissue thins and dries, leaving it more vulnerable to microbial invaders. Because semen is alkaline, it changes a woman’s vaginal pH, allowing unfriendly bacteria to thrive, says Steelsmith. Her advice: Always go to the bathroom and urinate after intercourse, and use natural lubricants, like vitamin E. For some women, she also recommends low-dose, prescription estrogen cream or suppositories. If an infection occurs, try to treat it naturally, avoiding antibiotics, which can spark yeast overgrowth. Instead, Steelsmith recommends using tea tree oil, goldenseal, or probiotic douches or suppositories, available online and at health food stores. Kegel exercises are a famous aid, involving clamping down as if interrupting urine flow, before releasing and repeating. This not only help fends off urinary incontinence and infection, it also strengthens and firms pelvic muscles, rendering enhanced enjoyment for both partners.

Make Time for Intimacy

Research has shown that over time, frequent lovemaking actually causes structural changes in certain areas of the brain as new connections form and sex-related regions grow stronger. Stop, and those areas atrophy, making physical intimacy feel awkward once it’s resurrected. A sexless relationship can also be emotionally devastating for the person, often the male, that wants more

Five Common Libido Killers Birth Control Pills: Oral contraceptives can boost levels of sex hormone-binding globulin, which attaches to desire-promoting testosterone, making it harder for the body to access it. Antidepressants: Numerous antidepressant medications have been shown to decrease libido, but leaving depression untreated can kill sex drive even more; consider natural alternatives. Smoking: It impairs circulation to genitals. Alcohol: Too much alcohol lowers sexual response. Caffeine: Excess caffeine can erode levels of testosterone, which is vital for driving desire. Sources: Laurie Steelsmith, ND, and research studies

Nature’s Libido-Enhancers L-arginine: Boosts blood flow to sexual organs. Can be taken in supplement form or applied topically. Chinese ginseng (Panax ginseng): Considered a sexual tonic in Chinese medicine for its ability to stabilize sexual energy over time; also used to address vaginal dryness. Epimedium (horny goat weed): Said to stimulate nerves in genitals, support adrenal glands and boost levels of feel-good brain chemicals. Phenylethylamine: Sometimes referred to as the “romance chemical”, this stimulant and mood elevator is naturally released in the brain when we have an orgasm, exercise or eat chocolate; also available in supplement form. Maca: A Peruvian root used for centuries in that country to promote sexual energy, Maca is said to boost production of libido-boosting hormones. Source: Laurie Steelsmith, ND

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May 2016

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contact, says Weiner Davis, author of The Sex-Starved Marriage: Boosting Your Marriage Libido. “For the spouse yearning for touch, it is a huge deal,” she says. “It’s about feeling wanted, attractive and loved.” In her practice, she often sees couples that are mismatched in how they wish to demonstrate and receive love. Often, the woman wants to feel close emotionally before she can feel close physically. For the man, physical intimacy is a conduit for opening up emotionally. When both keep waiting to get what they want, the relationship suffers. She counsels couples to deliberately make time to address both partners’ needs. Schedule a long walk or intimate dinner to talk over feelings; also schedule sex. “Some people say, ‘Oh, but that’s not spontaneous enough,’” says Weiner Davis. “But even if you put it on the calendar, what you do with that time can still be spontaneous and playful.” While most women assume that they need to be in the mood first, research by University of British Columbia Psychiatrist Rosemary Basson suggests that in some women, desire only comes after physical arousal, especially by a loving partner that takes the time to meet her needs. “I wish I had a dollar for each time someone said to me, ‘I’m not in the mood, but once I get into it, I surprise myself, because I have a really good time,’” says Weiner Davis. She’s not advising women to make love when they really don’t want to, but rather to be open to it even when the circumstances aren’t ideal. “A lot of women feel like the house has to be clean, with the kids asleep and free of distracting noises,” she says. “Sometimes, just do it.”

Is Sex Essential?

Clayton points out that while 42 percent of women experience either low sex drive or satisfaction, fewer than 12 percent are really bothered by it. “Some women experience great grief and loss about this. They say, ‘It used to be a part of my life and now it’s gone.’” For some in this subset that are unable to find relief via lifestyle changes, she would recommend Addyi, said to boost desire by changing brain chemicals. On the other hand, many women don’t need to take any action at all. “If someone has low sex drive and it doesn’t matter to them or their partner, it’s not a problem.” That said, the benefits of attending to an affectionate, healthy sex life can go far beyond the bedroom, improving overall health and strengthening relationships, notes Steelsmith. Sex burns calories, increases circulation, releases calming and painkilling hormones like prolactin and prompts production of the “bonding hormones” vasopressin and oxytocin. “When you are in a loving relationship and you express that love through your body, physiological changes occur that can help you bond more deeply with your partner,” she says. “The more you make love, the more love you make.” Lisa Marshall is a freelance health writer in Boulder, CO. Connect at LisaAnnMarshall.com. 26

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In addition to covering the reasons for avoiding sex the reader may be aware of—such as poor body image or a partner’s infidelity, Frank also addresses blocks that can remain lodged in the subconscious. She offers step-by-step instructions for using EFT that can uncover and alleviate them, but she says, “dentists don’t give themselves root canals,” and advises that some readers will be better served working with a certified practitioner than by going it alone.

You’ve had clients come to you to lose weight or break bad habits, only to find the root of their problem turns out to be sex.

How to Want Sex Again EFT for Hypoactive Sexual Desire by Terry Hernon

2003 Newsweek report revealed that 113 million married Americans were either “too exhausted or too grumpy” to have sex. Since then, during Alina Frank’s 10-year practice as an Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) practitioner, she found the problem prevalent enough to write a book about it. Entitled How to Want Sex Again (2016, Difference Press), the book details reasons for what psychiatrists term “hypoactive sexual desire”. Frank also describes how the self-help technique EFT (commonly known as tapping)— which has been likened to “acupuncture without needles”— can help couples, especially women, enjoy intimacy again.

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As a client is tapping, certain things she never thought about come to mind. We’re working with the subconscious, so the presenting issue is often the tip of the iceberg. The client starts making associations she never even thought about. I see it all the time with weight issues. Some women don’t feel safe being attractive. I had a client the other day who said to me, “I need to pad. I need that pad of protection.”

You’ve mentioned the work of Vincent J. Felitti, M.D., the co-principal investigator on the Adverse Childhood Experiences Study (ACES), who ran a weight loss program and made a startling discovery. One of his questions [to clients] was, “How old were you when you became sexually active?” But he made a mistake one day and asked one woman, “How much did you weigh when you became sexually active?” And she said, “Fortyfive pounds.” It turned out her father had sexually abused her. So Felitti asked the revised question from then on. Lo and behold, he was absolutely shocked at the number of women who had been sexually abused who also had weight issues. In EFT, we see it all the time that traumas cause physical problems. Our biography becomes our biology, as Caroline Myss says, but it’s thrilling that we’re able to uncover these things and resolve them.

But you didn’t realize how prevalent sexual abuse was until you got into this work. I had no idea. My first clients were my friends and family. They wanted to resolve some pain issue or gluten sensitivity,

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and I was in shock how many people, even in my extended family, had been sexually abused to some extent. I would say, out of every five women I work with, three will have something in their history that qualifies as sexual abuse. My hope is that everyone in the healing arts understands that sexual abuse is a fundamental and universal problem. I’ve worked with women who were traumatized by people in the healing arts who didn’t realize they were bringing up trauma, told clients the problem was part of their spiritual growth, and to get over it. We have to get educated and have compassion. Sexual abuse is going to come up with a significant number of people we work with.

The lack of understanding and compassion is disheartening, especially because abuse victims tend to have a hard time setting boundaries. If you’ve been violated, drawing that line is really hard. I know women with a history of sexual abuse who were talked [by romantic partners] into being in polyamorous relationships they didn’t want. There are some people on a spiritual path – it’s a small sect, but I’ve heard it enough – who are into free love, you’ve got to give your body to everyone, but I don’t believe that. You have to know what works for you and be able to express it. That happens as a result of healing.

that he get help. She wonders how she can trust him again. It’s important that she tap to work through her own feelings.

• YARD TO TABLE •

Does the double standard affect a woman’s desire? To an extent, girls are still taught to suppress their sexual impulses. Meanwhile, boys are encouraged to sleep with as many women as possible. Do you see women who resent having been constrained until marriage, when they’re suddenly expected to provide pleasure to a man whenever he wants it? If there’s inequality about sex in your relationship, that’s something to work on. Your ability to talk about that inequality is something to work on. Hopefully, before you even get in a relationship, you’re very clear that sex is a wonderful, loving expression of your intimate relationship, and you feel really good about having it because it has all these benefits for you.

In the book, you show readers how they can discern what those benefits are.

You’ve worked with clients with regard to their partner’s porn habit. How does tapping on somebody else’s problem help your client?

If you have shame around sex—I’ve had clients who say things like “down there”—EFT is very helpful for working through that and coming into your power. There’s amazing power in sexuality, and you can even see it in one’s ability to be successful in the world and in intimate relationships. If you think about it metaphysically, those lower chakras are tied to your sexual expression. They’re also tied to your ability to manifest in this world. If all that’s lost, you’re going to be held back.

Porn habits are so pervasive. It’s amazing to me how often a woman will find some evidence of pornography, and then has that image that her husband was sexually stimulated by in her head. She feels lied to, betrayed, really hurt by it. All these factors can be resolved by EFT to get to a place to talk about it with a partner, or insist

Alina Frank practices EFT at her Seattle office or via Skype. For more information, visit AlinaFrank.com. Her book, How to Want Sex Again, is available through booksellers nationwide. Terry Hernon is a writer and EFT practitioner based in Shelton, Connecticut. Visit her at Marie-ThereseHernon.com.

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May 2016

Mother Matters Adjusting to Hormonal Shifts During Pregnancy by Risa M. Sloves

hile pregnancy is a natural process, it does not mean it is an easy process for many women. There are often some unpleasant and even uncomfortable changes in the body that go along with it. The profound changes are governed by the body’s hormones, which produce the physical and psychological changes that perhaps you were not expecting: morning sickness, fatigue, constipation, low back pain, sciatica, headaches, carpal tunnel syndrome and others. But having this wonderful new life evolving inside of you is making you think twice about taking any medication to help alleviate these discomforts.

So, what is one to do?

What causes these normal hormonal changes during pregnancy is the ability of the nervous system to properly communicate with all of the organs of the body—and the baby’s body—so it can produce the optimal balance of hormones to maintain a healthy pregnancy. The first hormone to make its appearance after conception is human 30

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chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is picked up by a urine or blood test to determine pregnancy. hCG increases the blood supply to the pelvis, which then causes an increased sensitivity of the bladder; this results in frequent trips to the bathroom during the first trimester. It is also believed that nausea and vomiting—also known as morning sickness, which can actually occur during any part of the day—is also due to rising levels of hCG. Many other hormones—such as follicle-stimulating hormones (FSH), luteinizing hormones (LH), human chorionic somatomammotropin (HSC), cortisol, aldosterone, prolactin and relaxin—are all important in pregnancy, but estrogen and progesterone play the major roles in maintaining the pregnancy. Progesterone relaxes all smooth muscle in the body—including the muscles wall of the uterus—and it also relaxes the blood vessels throughout the body. This prompts lower than normal blood pressure and occasionally dizziness, as well as all the notso-fun gastrointestinal symptoms of pregnancy. These include heartburn, reflux, belching, nausea, vomiting, gas

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and constipation. Estrogen helps the uterus grow and maintains the uterine lining, increases blood circulation and breast tenderness/development, and later helps in milk production. Estrogen plays a key role in the development of the fetus, with several organs and other bodily systems in the fetus triggered into development by estrogen. Together with relaxin, estrogen also produces significant alteration in connective tissue increasing the mobility of the joints of the spine and pelvis, which is necessary to prepare your body for delivery through the birth canal. Unfortunately, this laxity can also be the cause of neuromuscular pain, such as low back and neck pain, sciatica, headaches, carpal tunnel syndrome, pubic pain and more. Both doctors of chiropractic and medical doctors agree that back pain during pregnancy occurs because of a condition called sacroiliac joint dysfunction—often referred to by chiropractors as SI subluxation. A subluxation is a misalignment or restriction of movement that occurs in a joint and creates irritation to the nerves and other pain sensitive structures in the surrounding areas. For example, the sacroiliac (SI) joints are created by the joining of the sacrum (the triangular bone that sits above the tailbone, the coccyx) and the bones that are on either side of the sacrum, known as the inominate bones. There is a right SI joint and a left SI joint. Together with the joint in the front of the pelvis—known as the pubic symphysis—these three joints create what is referred to as the pelvic girdle. Laxity of the ligaments that hold these joints together, along with weight gain and compensatory postural changes, are responsible for the low back and pelvic pain. Chiropractic physicians are the only doctors licensed to diagnose and correct subluxations to reduce and eliminate the low back pain and other neuromusculoskeletal symptoms associated with pregnancy. Chiropractic care offers pregnant women a drug-free approach to pain reduction. Obviously, it is not ideal for pregnant women to take unnecessary medication so chiro-

practic care provides relief without the worry that comes from taking medication. The indexed literature does not report any adverse incidents related to chiropractic adjustments on pregnant females. A chiropractic adjustment is a gentle procedure where the doctor of chiropractic applies light pressure to the joints of the spine (or other parts of the body) to restore normal motion and alignment. This, in turn, decreases stress on the nervous system and decreases pain and muscle spasms. Not only has chiropractic care been proven effective in eliminating pregnancy-related back pain and other painful conditions, but expectant mothers who receive chiropractic care are less likely to suffer from “back labor” and have less of a chance of breech presentations or Cesarean sections. Adjustments have also been shown to lessen labor pain and shorten the duration of labor. There are only nine chiropractic physicians in Connecticut who have completed a three year post-doctorate degree to specialize in maternity and pediatric care. The degree is known as a Diplomate of the International Council on Chiropractic Pediatrics (DICCP). Chiropractic physicians who specialize in maternity care will often have special adjusting tables for the pregnant mother so that she can lay on her stomach without any pressure so that her spine can be examined. There is even a special non-invasive and painless adjustment that can be performed by certified chiropractic physicians that has been very effective in helping breech babies turn into the correct position for a vaginal delivery so they could avoid a Cesarean section. Remember, pregnancy should be a time of health and happiness, not a time of suffering from pain or discomfort during pregnancy. Risa Sloves, DC, practices with her husband, Mark Joachim, DC, at Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care, P.C., located at 156 East Ave, Norwalk. She has a DICCP degree and is certified in acupuncture and the Webster and Bagnell techniques. Connect with her at CTChiropractic.com or 203-838-1555. See ad, page 35.

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Understanding Thyroid Hormones by Salvatore Fiorentino

t is estimated that 20 million Americans have some type of thyroid disorder. Women are five to eight times more likely to develop a thyroid condition than men, and as many as 60 percent of people with thyroid disease are unaware they have it. Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t

produce enough thyroid hormone. With one of its main functions being to regulate metabolism, low levels of the thyroid hormone can lead to a number of symptoms, including fatigue, depression, brain fog and weight gain. Although hypothyroidism can develop at any time, it is more common during middle age. The most

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common condition that causes hypothyroidism is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune disorder where the body’s own immune system attacks thyroid cells. The onset of this condition usually occurs between the ages of 30 and 50. Although there are many concerns associated with hypothyroidism, there are several reasons why someone with a thyroid condition might not be properly diagnosed. Most conventional doctors only test blood1 for three hormones. The first, TSH, is a signaling hormone that tells the thyroid to produce more thyroid hormone. Total T4 and Free-T4 are types of thyroid hormones. Unfortunately, these tests don’t show enough of the bigger picture of what’s actually happening in your body. It is important to also test the thyroid hormone’s active form, Free-T3, and its inactive form, Reverse-T3.

The Significance of Free-T3 and Reverse-T3 The active form of thyroid hormone is T3, which is used within every cell in your body to regulate your metabolism. The majority of thyroid hormone being made in the thyroid itself is T4 hormone, and is then converted outside the thyroid to T3. The purpose of testing for both T4 and T3 is to evaluate if there is proper conversion between the two hormones, as well as if there is enough T3 to allow your body to function properly. Reverse-T3 is an inactive form of thyroid hormone; it shouldn’t be high in your blood. If the levels are high, this indicates that your body is converting T4 to Reverse-T3, and not to the active form that causes your metabolism to work properly. Total T4 and Total T3 are different from Free-T4 and Free-T3. A majority of Total T4 and Total T3 is made up of thyroid hormone that is bound to protein. When it’s bound to protein, it isn’t bioavailable to your cells. It is the “Free” form that is most important as this means that the thyroid hormone is freely circulating around your blood, unbound to anything, and able to be used when needed.

Signs and Symptoms of Low Thyroid Function • Low body temperature (measured over time) • Weight gain • Depression • Fatigue • Feeling cold when others don’t • Feeling jittery or anxious • Appetite or taste buds altered • Brain fog (can’t think clearly) • Poor memory and/or concentration • Low interest in sex (decreased libido) • Thin and/or coarse or dry hair • Loss of hair, especially the outer third of your eyebrows • Dry skin • Constipation (bowel movement every two or more days) • Change in menses (periods) • Pain in extremities (arms, legs, hands, feet) • High blood pressure (hypertension) • Agitation There are additional blood tests that can be used to assess for proper thyroid function. Thyroid antibodies and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis can be detected using the thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPO Ab) or anti-thyroglobulin antibodies (Tg Ab) tests. Other tests look for levels of thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI)—which is associated with Graves’ disease—and iodine levels.

Some Causes of Thyroid Dysfunction There are various reasons for thyroid dysfunction. These range from nutritional deficiencies—including diet, vitamins and minerals—to environmental toxins. Even medications that you are taking can affect your thyroid. Age and other medical conditions can also play a part in thyroid dysfunction. Nutritional deficiencies can also be caused by fasting, starvation, anorexia, and protein or calorie malnutrition. Some of the deficiencies that can cause issues with thyroid function include:

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Give Your Body the Natural Boost it Needs The Hidden Deficiency Causes of Iodine Deficiency Having the proper amount of iodine in our system at all times is critical to overall health, yet the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition finds that iodine deficiency is increasing drastically in light of an increasingly anemic national diet of unpronounceable additives and secret, unlabeled ingredients. This deficit now affects nearly three-quarters of the population.A Growing Epidemic

A Growing Epidemic

Symptoms range from extreme fatigue and weight gain to depression, carpal tunnel syndrome, high blood pressure, fibrocystic breasts and skin and hair problems. This lack of essential iodine can also cause infertility, joint pain, heart disease and stroke. Low iodine levels also have been associated with breast and thyroid cancers; and in children, intellectual disability, deafness, attention deficient hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and impaired growth, according to studies by Boston University and the French National Academy of Medicine.

Radiation

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• Vitamin A, E, B12, B2 and B3 • Minerals such as selenium, iodine, iron and zinc •Amino acids such as cysteine and tyrosine • Excess consumption of goitrogens in foods like cabbage, kale and Brussels sprouts can also disrupt the production of thyroid hormones by interfering with iodine uptake in the thyroid gland. (There is a way to eat these vegetables without having an issue.) • Hormone deficiencies—including cortisol, testosterone and estrogen imbalances—can also contribute to thyroid dysfunction. • Environmental toxins like heavy metals (mercury, cadmium and lead) can influence nutritional deficiencies as well. Mercury can reduce or prevent the formation and conversion of thyroid hormone; exposure is usually from eating fish or from handling old broken thermometers incor-

rectly. Halogens such as perchlorate, chlorine, fluorine and bromine, are not only found in our environment but are in common substances like household products including drinking water, beverages, toothpastes and cleaning supplies. Perchlorates and chlorine inhibit iodine uptake while bromine displaces iodine and inhibits thyroid activity. Pesticides can decrease TSH, FT3 and FT4 levels while radiation from X-rays and CT-scan exposures can negatively influence function as well. Excesses of calcium, lithium, copper and/or soy impair conversion of T4 to T3.

to help increase awareness of the importance of conducting a well-rounded assessment of thyroid function. Additionally, conducting a thorough history of your present condition, investigating your past medical history as well as your family’s medical history, and performing a physical exam are important in determining your overall health. Lastly, conventional laboratory testing doesn’t always confirm or demonstrate a thyroid condition. A physician must use his/ her clinical experience and training to help better assess the signs and symptoms of their patients to determine thyroid health and function.

• Medications—such as amiodarone, carbamazepine, lithium, phenobarbitone, phenytoin or rifampin—can induce goiters, an abnormal enlargement of your thyroid gland, and suppress thyroid function.

There are many ways to evaluate if your thyroid is functioning properly, but for the purposes of this article, we focused on blood testing alone.

This article is intended for informational purposes only, and you should always be under the care of a licensed physician to be properly evaluated. This article is also intended

Salvatore Fiorentino, ND, MS, is a licensed naturopathic physician with offices in both Westport and Woodbury. Connect at DrSFiorentino.com or 203-864-5762.

The present time has one advantage over every other—it is our own. ~Charles Caleb Colton

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No other chiropractic office in Connecticut offers the range of services that we do. Why go anywhere else? Dr. Risa Sloves and Dr. Mark Joachim have been in practice for over 25 years helping infants, children, and adults obtain optimal health through natural chiropractic and wellness care. Dr. Risa Sloves is one of the only Chiropractic Physicians in Connecticut with Board Certiﬁcation in Maternity and Pediatric Care, is certiﬁed in the Webster and Bagnell Turning Techniques, and has specialized training in cranial sacral therapy and scoliosis treatment.

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What Patients Are Saying About Treatment With Dr. Sloves and Dr. Joachim “My baby, Jessie, initially struggled with digestive problems, food sensitivities, and a facial rash. The benefits of BioSet have been a big part of her development. She is always happier, more relaxed and much less distressed for days and even weeks after treatment. Thank you for the health care that you have given to her and the rest of my family over the past 6 years - it has helped them enter life with ease and kept us all healthy.” - Dr. Randy Schulman "My back pain was so bad that even simple things, such as getting dressed, putting on socks and tying shoes became very difficult. I would occasionally miss work due to pain and also gave up exercise all together. I relied on family members to help with household chores. I have tried anti-inflammatories, physical therapy, and pain management specialist, none of which worked. I was very afraid that I would need surgery, but then I saw an article about the DRX 9000. When I started treatments, I noticed a difference after my first session and I kept on feeling better. The DRX treatments were so comfortable and at times I was so relaxed that I would fall asleep. I have already recommended the DRX treatment to others. I tell people that the DRX treatments helped me tremendously and I am finally able to live a normal, pain-free life." - Robin W.

“My daughter had ear infections constantly from the time she was an infant. She had taken over 30 antibiotics in 3 years and failed her hearing test. Since I took her to Dr. Sloves, she has not had another ear infection or taken another antibiotic and her hearing is completely normal.” - Heather G. “I started smoking when I was a teenager and have smoked 1-2 packs a day since. I have tried quitting cold-turkey several times before but it never really worked; I tried the gums and patches. After coming to you for chiropractic care for my neck, I learned about acupuncture for smoking so I decided to give it a try. It amazes me that I actually stopped smoking in just 2 treatments and I have not smoked in several years. Thanks Dr. Sloves for giving me my lungs and my life back! “ - Rick “After Dr. Joachim treated my sons with a combination of BioSet and chiropractic adjustments, all of their allergies vanished and have not returned. My husband's life long allergies have disappeared through Dr. Joachim’s treatments as well. We even got a dog which we thought we would never be able to do!” - Wendy M.

“I was referred to Dr. Sloves by a friend during my pregnancy because I was 36 weeks pregnant and my baby was breech and I had back pain. I feared having a C-Section and had already tried acupuncture without results. With Dr. Sloves' treatment, after just 2 adjustments over the course of 3 days, my baby turned and I avoided a Cesarean section! Chiropractic care is excellent for breech turning!” - Jennifer S.

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Solutions for a Sluggish Thyroid Keying in on Iodine by Kathleen Barnes

t seems that a common mineral supplement that costs just pennies per day can stimulate an underactive thyroid, restore metabolism to normal levels, curb excess appetite, banish fatigue and generally improve everyone’s health. Mounting scientific evidence shows that iodine may be an answer to many such health woes, especially for women. “The thyroid acts as a throttle, the gas pedal for all metabolic functions in the human body,” says Dr. Richard Shames, of San Rafael, California, author of Thyroid Mind Power. If the thyroid is a driving force of human physiology, then iodine is its key fuel, says Dr. Robert Thompson, of Soldotna, Alaska, author of What Doctors Fail to Tell You About Iodine & Your Thyroid. “Every single cell in your body depends on thyroid hormone, and the thyroid depends on iodine for proper functioning.” “Without sufficient thyroid hormone, we have low energy, slower metabolism, lower immunity to illness and impaired repair and maintenance of bones and joints,” explains Shames. After testing thousands of patients in his practice, Thompson estimates that 90 percent of North Americans are 36

Fairfield County Edition

iodine deficient, citing what he calls “epidemic proportions” of hypothyroidism (low thyroid function) with symptoms comprising obesity, fatigue, brain fog, irregular or absent menstrual periods, hair loss and heat and cold intolerance.

Major Culprits

Estrogen: Hypothyroidism is overwhelmingly a women’s disease, with women five to eight times more likely to suffer from it than men, according to the American Thyroid Association. “Estrogen inhibits the body’s natural ability to absorb and utilize iodine,” says Dr. Jorge Flechas, of Hendersonville, North Carolina, who specializes in thyroid disorders. “We find three periods in life when women need more iodine: at puberty and during both pregnancy and perimenopause or menopause. It’s because estrogen levels tend to fluctuate wildly at those times, neutralizing the ability of iodine gained through select foods to balance thyroid and other hormones.” Flechas prescribes iodine supplements for most women at all three stages of life. Toxic halogens: Iodine belongs to a group of halogens that includes

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chlorine, bromine and fluorine, three chemicals that are both toxic to the human body and block its ability to absorb iodine, explains Thompson. “They’re everywhere, in our air, water and food. It’s nearly impossible to avoid them,” reports Shames, a longtime advocate in the movement against the common practice of adding fluoride (a derivative of fluorine) and chlorine to municipal water. Fluoride is also added to many brands of toothpaste. Bromide is part of almost all commercial flour and flour products, as well as soft drinks. Shames offers an historic insight. “Fluoride was once used to slow down an overactive thyroid, as recommended by the physicians’ bible, the Merck Manuals. Now we’re putting it in the water supply and wondering why we have a mushrooming epidemic of low thyroid incidence.” Food: “So-called ‘iodized’ salt doesn’t contain much usable iodine, and neither does pink Himalyan sea salt,” Shames cautions. We’ve known that our soil is deficient in essential minerals such as iodine since at least 1936, when a special U.S. Senate report concluded that our soil was already severely depleted. “This simply means that when we grow produce, the plants cannot extract these vital nutrients from the soil for us—including iodine—if those nutrients aren’t there in the first place,” says Thompson. If anything, he adds, U.S. soils have become even more sterile in the 80 years since the report and, “Factory farming and the use of genetically modified (GMO) crops, Roundup herbicide and synthetic chemical fertilizers have undoubtedly worsened the situation.”

Sources of Iodine

It’s difficult to include sufficient natural iodine in our daily diet unless we follow a Japanese-style diet that includes lots of seaweed and saltwater fish, says Shames. Other food sources are shellfish, turkey, cheese, yogurt, milk, eggs, legumes, cranberries and strawberries. There is little agreement about the optimal levels of iodine people need. The U.S. Department of Agriculture maintains that we need 150 micro-

grams a day, but iodine advocates are quick to point out that a person eating a typical Japanese diet (where hypothyroidism, or low thyroid activity, is rare) ingests 12.5 milligrams of iodine each day—83 times the amount recommended by the government. Shames recommends getting an iodine lab test (available without a prescription at CanaryClub.org) to determine exact needs. Thompson recommends potassium iodide and sodium iodide supplements for thyroid health.

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Kathleen Barnes is author of numerous natural health books, including User’s Guide to Thyroid Disorders.

Thyroid Toxins to Avoid Fluorine/fluoride n Fluoridated toothpaste n Unfiltered municipal drinking water n Some bottled teas n Teflon pans n Mechanically deboned chicken Chlorine/chloride n Virtually all municipal water n Swimming pools, spas n Poultry chilled in chlorinated water to kill bacteria n Chlorine bleaches and other conventional household cleaners Bromine/bromide n Flour and flour products, except those labeled “unbrominated” n Soft drinks n Pesticides with methyl bromide n Plastics n Fire retardants in children’s nightwear and some furniture n Spa disinfectants Source: What Doctors Fail to Tell You About Iodine & Your Thyroid, by Dr. Robert Thompson.

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Steven Jenkinson

communityspotlight

The Sacred Act of Dying A Conversation between Barbara Slaine of Alliance for Conscious Transitioning and Steven Jenkinson, Author of Die Wise

eath is a topic which makes many people in our society uncomfortable. Cultural habits have made this naturally occurring event one to be dreaded, feared and avoided. Ninety percent of people surveyed in 2013 said that talking to

their loved ones about end-of-life care is important but only 27 percent said they had actually done so, according to The Conversation Project National Survey. Fairfield County’s new Alliance for Conscious Transitioning wants to help shift these statistics and educate

people about how they can take the same care and preparation surrounding death as they might about giving birth. The organization’s mission statement focuses on opening the conversation to help people have conversations and learn to embrace every moment of the transitioning experience. They do this by providing resources, programs and services to support end-of-life transition. They will present a workshop with Stephen Jenkinson, author of Die Wise and featured participant in the documentary Griefwalker on June 5. Jenkinson teaches internationally and is the creator and principal instructor of the Orphan Wisdom School, founded in 2010. With master’s degrees from Harvard University (theology) and the University of Toronto (social work), Stephen Jenkinson is working to redefine grief and dying in North America.He is the author of Die Wise: A Manifesto for Sanity and Soul (2015), Homecoming: The Haiku Sessions (2013), How it All Could Be: A Work Book for Dying People and Those Who Love Them (2009), Angel and Executioner: Grief and the Love of Life (2009), and Money and The Soul’s Desires: A Meditation (2002), and a former contributing author to Palliative Care – Core Skills and Clinical Competencies (2007). The Alliance’s Barbara Slaine recently spoke with Jenkinson about his work.

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What is the biggest challenge you face? There is much at stake with every death, and not the least is the dying person’s sense of grievance and well-being. The question is not how would you like the dying of your loved ones to be...it is over and above controlling the willingness to approach your dying. The Plea is rooted in having a prolonged encounter with this death phobic culture as it is displayed in the death trade. Most people die badly and no one wants it to be that way; no one votes YES… hence the title of my book, Die Wise. You die in the manner of your living. What gives you the most hope and inspiration about the work and mission you’re engaged in? I outgrew hope a long time ago when I saw what the obligation to be hopeful did to the dying and their families. Hope is one of the great tyrannies foisted upon dying people to do everything not to do while they are dying! Requiring hope to proceed in the face of considerable odds condemns you to not proceed. What do you want readers to know about Conscious Transitioning? Ceremonial practices around the world hover around puberty to ensure the passage involved in making a human out of a child to be a functioning adult. If being alive in the deep sense is an achieved, sought-after thing that trains you, then dying is an achievement as well. Dying well is a matter of wisdom, not how you feel, but a deep learning, the willingness to have been wrong your life through about what was important and mattered without defending. Dying can teach us so much. Our reward system is to not die as long as possible. We need to ask deep questions what passes for normal, passes for sane, passes for compassion and for love, and professionalism when it comes to dying. If you think all is okay why would you seek out any alternative? The dominant culture of North America is insane, business as usual. When I went to the conferences they were doing cheerleading exercises for doing a good job and how to do better. How can readers support and get involved in your work? Learn and become informed. Come to events, my school, read books. The Alliance for Conscious Transitioning provides this information to you in your community. The Alliance is holding a new monthly information group entitled “The Conversation” to bring new awareness to the sacred act of dying. Based in Weston, the Alliance for Conscious Transitioning offers monthly discussions on various topics regarding life, death and end-of-life options. In honor of upcoming author visit with Stephen Jenkinson on June 5, excerpts from the Griefwalker documentary will be shown and discussed. Registration required. For more information about The Conversation, call 203-556-9521, email Info@AllianceFCT.com or visit AllianceFCT.com.

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Leaky Gut Syndrome What Is It and Why Does It Matter? by Yufang Lin

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he topic of leaky gut syndrome is a popular buzzword nowadays on social media and a quick internet search brings up 424,000 citations. What is it, and why does it matter? Our intestinal tract is approximately 30 feet long; when spread out, the absorptive surface can be the size of a double tennis court. In addition to helping us digest food, 70 percent of the body’s immune system and 80 percent of the neuroendocrine system are in the gastrointestinal tract. The intestinal tract helps us fight off infection, and communicates with the brain and rest of our body for our well-being. A healthy gut lining, therefore, is critical for our health. When we eat, the food is first broken down by chewing, then by stomach acid and pancreatic enzymes and, finally, by the enzymes at the brush border of the intestinal cells. Then the digested nutrients—sugar, amino acid and fatty acids—are taken up by the intestinal cells, get passed on to blood vessels, and then are taken to where they are needed. However, that is not the whole picture. This digestive process is aided by bacteria in our gut; our intestines are home to one hundred trillion bacteria, or microbiota. They line the intestinal wall like a lush

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growth of a tropical forest, with a biodiversity that rivals the Amazon jungle. What we eat, they eat. These bacteria help us digest food, process hormones and produce vitamins. They also form a protective layer, or biofilm, above our intestinal lining; this protects the intestines from invasion due to other pathogens. Common bacteria in our gut include clostridium, enterococcus, lactobacillus and bacteroides. In general, these bacteria stay in the intestines; however, if they cross the intestinal lining, problems can arise. At high levels, they can make us quite sick, but they can cause chronic inflammation even at low levels. Chronic inflammation can lead to chronic illness, such as coronary artery disease, diabetes, insulin resistance and dementia, to name just a few.

How is chronic inflammation connected to leaky gut?

Remember our gut lining is one cell layer thick. These cells are woven together with proteins like occludin and Zo-1, which hold the cells tightly so nothing can travel through the gut lining without proper permission from the cells. However, certain triggers can lead to disruption of this “tight junction”, including high fat diets, high sugar diets, bacterial infections, poorly digested food and

other irritants. The intestinal wall then becomes “leaky”. Particles that can leak through include partially digested food and small broken bits of the bacteria. Those are usually never allowed into body, but as they leak through the loosened tight junctions, they then enter the blood stream and are recognized by the body’s defense system as foreign. It may not cause any problem if the exposure is low and rare; however, with repeated exposures, the body will mount an immune response. This triggers inflammation in the body as a whole, contributing to symptoms like body ache, joint pain, poor memory, fatigue, rash, poor concentration, moodiness and more. If the particle is food, the body may produce antibodies against it, leading to food allergies. If the particle is bacteria and has a protein that looks very much like our own body’s tissue, the body may produce antibodies to fight off the bacteria. However, the same antibodies can attack the body’s tissue. Similarly, the broken bits of the injured intestinal cells can trigger antibodies production, leading to autoimmune diseases such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, inflammatory bowel disease or rheumatoid arthritis. A classic example of leaky gut syndrome is celiac disease. Celiac disease is when a person develops a reaction to gluten—a wheat protein—which leads to antibody-directed intestinal injury that causes belly pain, bloating, diarrhea and anemia. They often have symptoms outside of the gut as well, such as joint pain, anxiety, poor concentration, fatigue, migraines, rashes and irregular periods. Additional autoimmune conditions, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, are common with those that have celiac disease.

What can be done to prevent leaky gut?

Studies show high fat and sugar diets contribute to leakiness

in the gut. A healthy diet rich in vegetables and fruits, and low in simple carbohydrates and saturated fats, is important to maintain a healthy microbiota. The health of the bacteria is often impacted by the food we eat. The fibers and complex carbohydrates from vegetables, fruits and legumes feed and maintain the good bacteria. Fermented food such as sauerkraut, kimchi, miso and kefir do as well. However, medications—such as chronic acid reducers, NSAIDs, antibiotics and certain food preservatives—will lead to bacterial imbalance. Early symptoms of bacterial imbalance may be bloating, stomach upset, gassiness, change in stooling (constipation or diarrhea) and stomach pain. Most of us will likely have leaky gut once in a while; a stomach bug or travel-associated diarrhea are two common conditions that lead to transient leakiness of the gut. If we take extra care when we are sick, and take good care of ourselves in general, we can avoid leaky gut and the associated complications. If you believe you have leaky gut syndrome, start by changing your diet. Reduce saturated fats, simple sugars and simple carbohydrates in your diet. Increase fiber and probiotic-rich foods. Avoid processed foods and chemicals. Keep a food diary; this can help you see which foods trigger your symptoms. Consider avoiding these foods for a while. With time, the symptoms will resolve. Yufang Lin, MD, is board certified in internal medicine and pediatrics and with the American Board of Holistic and Integrative Medicine. She practices in WCMG Integrative Medicine, located in New Canaan (203-920-1603) at 173 East Ave, and in New Fairfield (203-746-6000) at 96 Rte 37. For more information, visit WCMGIntegrativeMedicine.org.

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Seniors, Teens and Tykes Enriching Programs Unite the Generations by Linda Sechrist

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n intergenerational programs throughout the U.S. and in Europe, thousands of “youngers” and “elders” are building bridges that were forged naturally before family members spread out and many retirees departed for warmer climes. Based on a U.S. adult population of 41 million people 65 years and older and 74 million youths up to the age of 17, the current generation gap is already unprecedented. By 2030, those numbers will increase to 72 million and 80 million, respectively, according to the international nonprofit Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation. Along with Generation Waking Up, Wiser Together and others, it’s working to foster better social cohesion in ways that help individuals of all ages lead richer and more rewarding lives.

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Providing nurturing opportunities for individuals to look at life through the eyes of others with dissimilar experiences that have led them to different

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assumptions and perspectives on life can be helpful. Broadening everyone’s relationship scope to include “MayDecember” friendships creates the potential for the kind of life-changing possibilities experienced by a troubled young man named Harold when he struck up a surprising friendship with a life-loving woman as old as his grandmother in the film Harold and Maude. In real life, “I had the blessing of growing up in an intergenerational family,” says Yvette McGlasson, director of port revenue for the PPI Group, in Pompano, Florida. The 17-year veteran of the cruise industry is a former Holland America cruise director whose career at sea launched her into work as a director of events for age-restricted (55-plus) gated communities such as Del Webb Lake Providence, near Nashville. “As a child, I was told I had to listen to my elders as a sign of respect. The many memorable times spent with my grandparents, my mother’s friends and a great aunt who lived to 101,

If you only talk to people like you, you’ll never learn anything new.

Multigenerational Cohousing

~Albert Einstein soon turned my resignation into an active desire to spend time with my elders. Their experiences and wisdom were fascinating and I understood that their shared life lessons could prove invaluable to me,” says McGlasson. The experience inspired her to develop a multigenerational “grandparents at-large” partnership with an elementary school across the street from the Del Webb community. The school principal recognized that residents would be valuable mentors, able to fill an emotional void for the latchkey kids of working parents, plus foster a deeper appreciation for their elders among the children. “In this paradigm of mentorship, young people are mentoring their elders and elders are mentoring young people and together, we’re co-creating something new,” says Joshua Gorman, the founder of Generation Waking Up, based in Oakland, California.

Facilitating Connections

Since launching their first multigenerational initiative at the Shambhala Institute in 2004, partnering across age groups has been at the forefront of Juanita Brown and David Isaacs’ work as co-founders and hosts of the World Café global learning community. “We cultivate collaboration through conversations that matter in order to leverage the unique gifts of every generation in addressing humanity’s most critical issues,” says Brown. Such conversations—in which elders and young people give up the cultural and societal norms and habits that shape so much of their thinking—offer both groups opportunities to discern the possibilities inherent in mutual insight, innovation and action. When a young Clarissa Tufts, program coordinator and family liaison for the SelfDesign Learning Community, in British Columbia, was working on her master’s degree from the SelfDesign Graduate Institute, she sought out mentor Anne Adams, a faculty member in her 70s who worked with Tufts for 18 months. “Anne’s earliest statements, ‘I’m here to support you in being the best you can be’ and ‘I get energized by talking with young people and hearing their ideas,’ felt good and let me know that we were both benefitting from our relationship and building something together,” says Tufts. Stimulating cooperation and collaboration among generations evokes the vibrancy, energy and productivity that occur when people cross-pollinate ideas and perspectives. It can also provide a sense of purpose, improve confidence and social skills, create solutions to societal challenges, help resolve emotional and behavioral problems and lift depression, all enhancing productive engagement in life. Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Connect at ItsAllAboutWe.com.

by Linda Sechrist

aving regular positive interactions with family and friends and being involved in several different social networks can help older adults be healthier, according to recent research published by the American Psychological Association. This fact inspired the intergenerational living model embodied by Cleveland’s Judson Manor retirement community. Resident students attending the Cleveland Institutes of Art and Music teach older residents how to use computers for email, social media and Skype, with unlimited personal access included among the amenities associated with the affordable housing. These neighbors from different generations also join in art projects and attend movies together. This innovative approach helps solve the housing crisis faced by many cities while addressing social issues of isolation as the young people spontaneously converse with seniors about their studies, activities and other happenings in the outside world. Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Connect at ItsAllAboutWe.com.

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May 2016

inspiration

pen, even if we do not yet know how. Flick, snip and stick: Have fun seeing what jumps out and catches your attention while riffling through the magazine pages. Clip and place these images in a pile, and then sort out those that feel really right. Arrange: Experiment with the positioning and relationships of words and images until it feels good. Take a photograph as a reference. Affix pieces either so they can be repositioned or permanent, leaving spaces to symbolize an openness to receiving more ideas. Purpose Statement: Play with words that describe desired values and qualities to eventually shape an inspiring affirmation representing cherished personal aspirations for

Picture Your Future Creating a Vision Board Makes Dreams Real by Jayne Morris

ision boards, a powerful tool for transformation, comprise a collage of pictures, phrases, poems and quotes that visually represent what we would like to experience more of in life. Building one works to uncover hidden desires and inner guidance that help clarify the details of a roadmap to our future. Anyone can create one in a few hours. The layout may be intuitive, placing pieces where feelings direct; circles within circles like a mandala; or in titled, pie-shaped segments arranged in the form of a wheel. Board basics: Choose a large piece of poster board, corkboard or canvas the size of an unfolded newspaper. Gather pens, scissors, glue or

Fairfield County Edition

pins, sticky tape and a current selfie. Gather 10 to 20 magazines ranging from women’s and men’s fashion, health and fitness to hobbies, house and garden and travel, including animals representing specific character traits. Pick topics that resonate, uplift and inspire, energize or bring relaxation. Beauty salons, libraries and community centers like to clear out old issues; an alternative is to assemble images by using a computer. Prepare a space: Find a quiet, relaxing spot, free of disturbances and distractions. Mindset magic: Let go of oughttos, shoulds and musts. Rest assured that feeling the desire to be good, to do good or have something good in our life means we can make it hap-

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A vision board clarifies our deepest desires. the year ahead. Place this next to the selfie and other key personal photos in the center of the board and reinforce its verity by daily repeating it. Pride of place: Prominently display the board where it will be visible throughout the day. The more time we spend with our board, the more movement we’ll make toward our goals and the faster they’ll become our reality. Activate: Sit with the board and connect with its opportunities. Visualize being, doing, having and experiencing everything shown, as if they are already an intimate part of daily life. This living, breathing idea grows with us, and a companion gratitude journal can support us in acknowledging our progress. Jayne Morris is the author of Burnout to Brilliance: Strategies for Sustainable Success, from which this was adapted. Learn more at JayneMorris.com.

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fitbody

Millennials’ Take on Fitness

They Like Short, Social and Fun Workouts by Derek Flanzraich

illennials are a big deal. Most businesses view them as trendsetters for good reason: Born between the early 1980s and early 2000s, they make up 25 percent of the population and represent $200 billion in annual buying power. Like the baby boomers before them, they also have the power to profoundly influence other generations, both young and old. Millennials have largely rejected previous fitness trends and instead paved a new path to health and wellness. In doing so, they’ve transformed both the business of fitness and the idea of what it means to be healthy. They’ve created a more personalized approach that encompasses the values of their generation.

What They Are Millennials are a fast-paced, wellinformed group. They devour news and information as soon as it’s released and then share it with others, usually via social media. This quick turnover cycle has led to an “out with the old, in with the new” mentality in many aspects of life. For a generation that strives to be trailblazers, things quickly become outdated. Millennials are always seeking new ways 46

Fairfield County Edition

to get fit and eat healthy, even if it means creating something unique to them. The Internet has allowed these young adults to find more like-minded people than ever before. They grew up with constant connectivity, which has allowed them to build larger communities of friends online as well as locally, and keep everyone apprised of their fitness goals and progress. Millennials’ overscheduled lives mean they value shorter, quicker and more convenient options, especially in regard to workouts and healthy meals. They are more likely than any other age group to track their own health progress and use technologies such as health and fitness apps which monitor such data as steps, heart rate and caloric intake as a complement to their fitness routines. Being healthy means more than weight loss or looking good to them. For this pivotal generation, health is increasingly about living a happier life.

What They Like Millennials’ values and unique approach to health have fostered the growth of innovative fitness movements, health-focused stores and restaurants and alternative medicine.

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Here are the three biggest trends making an impact on the wellness industry. What’s hot: Shorter, full-body workouts that are also fun. What’s not: Steady-state cardio exercises as a starting point for losing weight and improving health. It’s been increasingly shown that steady-state cardio workouts may be the most effective way to lose weight, but they also lack widespread appeal. Instead of sticking to a traditional treadmill, many millennials have flocked to workout regimens that regularly switch exercises or use high-intensity interval training, such as Zumba, SoulCycle and CrossFit. What’s hot: A more holistic approach to health. What’s not: Diets that emphasize rapid weight loss. Millennials don’t believe that weight is the major indicator of health as much as previous generations have. Instead, they increasingly think of weight as just one among many key components of a healthy lifestyle. A higher percentage define being healthy as having regular physical activity and good eating habits. What’s hot: Alternative workouts that are customizable, fun and social. What’s not: Inflexible gym memberships and daily attendance. Instead of hitting the gym, young adults tend to prefer new forms of fitness that can be personalized to their needs. They like obstacle races such as Tough Mudder, fun and distance runs like The Color Run, at-home fitness workouts like P90X, and bodyweight regimens. As a group, millennials are redefining wellness and changing how following generations will view health. Their preferences for fun, personalized workouts and holistic wellness have fueled trends with far-reaching implications for the food, tech and healthcare industries, and that’s just the start. Derek Flanzraich is an entrepreneur on a mission to help the world think about health in a healthier way. He is the founder and CEO of Greatist, a New York City-based media startup working to make healthy living cool.

Mastering

YOGA

The yoga community in Fairfield and lower Litchfield counties has never been more vibrant!

Dew Yoga Offers Training and Yoga Workshop

tamford’s Dew Yoga is offering a combined Group Training + Yoga workshop on May 2 from 7 to 8:15pm. Personal Trainer Sage Irwin and Yoga Instructor Jen Irwin will lead this class, which includes 45 minutes of intense cardio core total fitness and 30 minutes of yoga stretch to quiet down. This class is appropriate for those with some fitness experience and no major injuries. No yoga experience is required. Reserve your space in advance by email, phone, or in person. The cost is $20 per person or one class card punch. Sage Irwin is a personal trainer graduated from National Personal Training Institute and a yoga instructor trained at Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health. Jen Irwin is a Kripalu RYT and the founder of Dew Yoga. Dew Yoga is a yoga and meditation center with classes and programs to serve anyone who wants to explore the body/mind connection. Its foundation is in Kripalu yoga. Dew offers free and donation classes for CT Challenge, Om For Life (Yoga for Cancer survivors) and Y12SR meetings and classes (a complement to the 12-step recovery programs). For more information, visit DewYoga.net or email Info@ DewYoga.net. Location: 123 High Ridge Rd, Stamford.

Beach Season Opens with LifePath Yoga

ifePath Yoga and Wellness founder Nina Antolino has announced the start of beach yoga season at Calf Pasture Beach in Norwalk. Beginning May 7 and continuing until September 24, each Saturday Antolino will lead a morning of beach yoga and meditation from 8:30 to 9:45am. All levels are welcome. The class is offered in partnership with City of Norwalk, Parks & Recreation so no beach pass is required. When you arrive, inform the beach guard that you are there for beach yoga. Attendees can buy a 4-class card for $70 (expires after two months), 8 classes for $130 (expires after three months) and $20 per drop-in for a class. All class cards expire at the end of the beach season. If there is inclement weather, classes will be held indoors at LifePath Yoga & Wellness’ studio in Norwalk. Antolino was introduced to yoga and meditation 15 years ago as she searched for a way to “slow down” and find balance in her fast-paced career. After being diagnosed with a chronic illness, she attended a week-long Mindfulness Meditation for Stress Reduction class which led to her 200hour Interdisciplinary Yoga Certification through the Nosara Institute in 2000. Her teaching draws from the traditions of Vinyasa, Kripalu, Iyengar, Yin and Viniyoga, with an emphasis on balance. Antolino is a certified Reiki master, certified empowerment life coach and mindfulness meditation practitioner. She also integrates Reiki with yoga to enhance her classes. For more information, visit LimitlessPotential.net, email Nina@LifePathYoga.net or call 203-354-7070. Location: Calf Pasture Beach, Norwalk.

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INSPIRED

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Campbell’s Endorses GMO Labeling Campbell Soup Company recently became the first major food corporation to support the mandatory labeling of genetically modified ingredients and will support the enactment of federal legislation to establish a single mandatory labeling standard for foods derived from genetically modified organisms (GMO). A company spokesperson says, “With 92 percent of Americans supporting the labeling of GMO foods, Campbell believes now is the time for the federal government to act quickly to implement a federal solution.” The company says that if a federal solution is not reached, it is prepared to label all of its U.S. products for the presence of ingredients derived from GMOs and seek guidance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and approval by the U. S. Department of Agriculture. The company also has pledged to remove artificial colors and flavors from nearly all of its North American products by July 2018. For more information, visit WhatsInMyFood.com.

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The nonprofit Oceana reveals that salmon, America’s favorite fish, is often mislabeled in restaurants and grocery stores. They collected 82 salmon samples from restaurants and grocery stores between December 2013 and March 2014 and found that 43 percent were mislabeled. DNA testing confirmed that the majority of the mislabeling (69 percent) consisted of farmed Atlantic salmon being sold as a wild-caught product. “Americans might love salmon, but as our study reveals, they may be falling victim to a bait-and-switch,” says Beth Lowell, a senior campaign director with Oceana. “Not only are consumers getting ripped off, but responsible U.S. fishermen are being cheated when fraudulent products lower the price for their hardwon catch.” Kimberly Warner, Ph.D., the report’s author and a senior scientist at Oceana, observes, “While U.S. fishermen catch enough salmon to satisfy 80 percent of our domestic demand, 70 percent of that catch is then exported, instead of going directly to American grocery stores and restaurants.” Source: Oceana.org

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Love is the beauty of the soul. ~Saint Augustine

consciouseating

shopping strategy to fill the cart with better food. With hunger sated first, chew on a natural gum while shopping; it discourages buying junk food. Secondly, habitually fill the front of the cart with produce. “We eat what we see,” he says.

How to Reboot Your Eating Habits

Food Choices

Small Shifts Can Drop Pounds and Gain Health by Judith Fertig

ur food habits are often just that—mindless, repetitious eating behaviors. Some serve us well; others, not so much. Natural Awakenings asked experts to serve up many doable small changes that can add up to big shifts. According to Brian Wansink, Ph.D., the John S. Dyson professor of marketing at Cornell University and author of Mindless Eating, changing just one lifestyle habit can eliminate two or more pounds each week. By changing up to three habits, we may lose more weight. At a minimum, we

will likely improve the quality of the food we eat overall.

Buying Behaviors

Wansink advises that having the only food on our kitchen counter be fruit encourages healthy snacking. At work, he suggests lunching away from our desk to discourage mindless eating. At restaurants, order half-size entrees, and then add a maximum of two items, such as soup and bread, salad and side dish or an appetizer and dessert. He recommends using a food

Consider starting the day with a new coffee habit. Dave Asprey, of Los Angeles, author of The Bulletproof Diet, uses organic coffee, brews with filtered water and blends the hot coffee with a pat of unsalted, grassfed butter, a fat high in vitamins and omega-3 essential fatty acids, and a small spoonful of a coconut oil that doesn’t congeal at room temperature. Unlike a drive-through latte with sugar and carbohydrates, he maintains that this type of coffee, “makes you feel energized, focused and full for hours.” Asprey takes a biohacker’s approach to natural biology-based ways to maximize physical and mental performance. New York City writer Chris Gayomali tried Asprey’s recipe for two weeks. Although it didn’t curb his appetite, he says he felt more alert and “ready for life.” Upgrading the foods we love is also possible, says David Wann, of Golden, Colorado, author of Simple Prosperity. “Too often, we economize on food when we should be buying the best quality, freshest organic food we can,” he says. Rebecca Miller, who lives near Kansas City, Missouri, took Wann’s advice and cut costs in other ways instead. To her delight, she found that

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FATTOUSH (Serves 6 to 8) This refreshing Middle Eastern salad is packed with fresh herbs and drizzled with bright lemon dressing. Toasted pita (or matzoh) gives the salad a nice crunch.

INGREDIENTS: 1/4 cup lemon juice 1 clove garlic, crushed with a press 1 1/4 teaspoon ground sumac 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander Pinch ground black pepper 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves 2 medium tomatoes, chopped 4 radishes, thinly sliced 2 green onions, thinly sliced 1 cucumber, thinly sliced 2 pita breads, toasted and broken into bite-size pieces 4 cups shredded romaine lettuce (about 1 large head romaine)

• In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, sumac, salt, coriander and pepper. Whisk in oil in a slow, steady stream until blended. • Add romaine, mint, parsley, tomatoes, radishes, green onions, cucumber and toasted pita, and toss until blended. Serve immediately.

Fairfield County Edition

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the fresher, better-tasting food prompted her to eat less, but eat better. “I lost seven pounds in two weeks,” she says, “and I didn’t feel like I was on a diet.” Eating a big salad for lunch is a habit that author Victoria Moran, host of the award-winning Main Street Vegan online radio show, has adopted in her New York City home. She fills a big bowl with leafy greens, in-season vegetables, avocado and a light dressing. “This will set you up for the rest of the day,” says Moran. Pam Anderson, a mainstream food blogger in Darien, Connecticut, agrees. Six years ago, she lost 50 pounds and credits having a big green salad for lunch—one of her many small food habit changes—with helping her maintain a healthy weight, despite frequently testing and sampling recipes.

Food Thought Habits

Doing too much for other people and not enough for ourselves can make our internal voice whisper, “I need comfort,” a thought that can generate overeating. In The Perfect Recipe for Losing Weight and Eating Great, Anderson suggests we ask ourselves what other triggers are prompting poor food habits. Upon reflection, we can prioritize emotional and physical health with planned, smaller, varied, healthy, delicious meals; it’s a habit that works for her. Elizabeth Lombardo, Ph.D., a psychologist in Lake Forest, Illinois, and bestselling author of Better Than Perfect, assures, “If we fall off the healthy eating wagon, it’s not failure, it’s data.” She believes reaching for the chocolate chip cookies in the vending machine after a stressful morning should be viewed from a scientific standpoint, not via our inner finger-pointing judge. “What are the factors that influenced our decision: stress, hunger or a desire for distraction? That’s great information,” says Lombardo. She proposes that we can then prepare to counter a future snack attack with handy healthy bites, a mindfulness break, a quick walk outside or other naturally healthful stress-relievers. Changing our food habits, one at a time, can help us live better going forward. Judith Fertig is the author of award-winning cookbooks and blogs at AlfrescoFoodAndLifestyle.blogspot.com from Overland Park, KS.

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May 2016

wisewords

Marie Kondo on the Joy of Tidying Up

Simplicity Invites Happiness into Our Lives by April Thompson

photo by Ichigo Natsuno

apanese organizing consultant Marie Kondo helps us discover happiness through tidiness. Already perusing home and lifestyle magazines by age 5, she spent her childhood “tidying” up her surroundings rather than playing with toys. The organizing system Kondo went on to develop, the

KonMari method, defies most long-held rules of organizing, such as installing clever storage solutions to accommodate stuff or de-cluttering one area at a time. Her New York Times bestseller, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, has been published in 30 countries, demonstrating that her methods speak to universal desires, including a hunger for

order and simplicity. She’s now released a companion book, Spark Joy: An Illustrated Master Class on the Art of Organizing and Tidying Up. Kondo’s principles, including vertically stacking clothing and using special folding methods for socks, can seem quirky, yet her approach gets results. Kondo claims a nearly zero percent “clutter relapse” rate among clients because they’ve become surrounded only by things they love.

How can we begin to get and stay organized? It’s not about a set of rules, but acquiring the right mindset for becoming a tidy person. Think in concrete terms, so that you can picture what it would be like to live in a clutter-free space. Start by identifying your bigger goal. Ask yourself why you want this, repeating the question to get to the root of the answer. As you explore the reasons behind your ideal lifestyle, you’ll realize that the ultimate reason is to be happy. Then you are ready to begin. I recommend cleaning out and organizing your entire space in one go-around. When completed, the

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

change is so profound that it inspires a strong aversion to your previously cluttered state. The key is to make the change so sudden that you experience a complete change of heart. By discarding the easy things first, you can gradually hone your decision-making skills, including knowing who else can use what you don’t need. I recommend starting with clothes, then move to books, documents, miscellaneous items and finally anything with sentimental value.

Is it important to touch every single object in the decision process? At one point in my life, I was virtually a “disposal unit”, constantly on the lookout for superfluous things. One day, I realized that I had been so focused on what to discard that I had forgotten to cherish the things I loved. Through this experience, I concluded that the best way to choose what to keep is to actually hold each item. As you do, ask yourself, “Does this spark joy?” When you touch something, your body reacts, and its response to each item is different. The process of assessing how you feel about the things you own—identifying those that have fulfilled their purpose, expressing your gratitude and bidding them farewell and good wishes for their onward journey—is a rite of passage to a new life.

We don’t let wood waste in landfills; we take the wood to get recycled.

Must keepsakes be included? Mementoes are reminders of a time that gave us joy, yet truly precious memories will never vanish, even if you discard the associated objects. By handling each sentimental item, you process your past. The space we live in should be for the person we are becoming now, not for the person we were in the past.

What do you recommend for organizing what remains after a purge? The secret to maintaining an uncluttered room is to pursue simplicity in storage, so that you can see at a glance what you have. My storage rules are simple: Store all items of the same type in one place and don’t scatter storage space.

How does this process change us and our relationship to things? Through it, you identify both what you love and need in your home and in your life. People have told me that decluttering has helped them achieve lifelong dreams, such as launching their own business; in other cases, it has helped them let go of negative attachments and unhappy relationships. Despite a drastic reduction in belongings, no one has ever regretted it, even those that ended up with a fifth of their earlier possessions. It’s a continuing strong reminder that they have been living all this time with things they didn’t need. Connect with freelance writer April Thompson, of Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com.

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greenliving

Where to Unload the Unsold Electronics Industries Alliance Environment Consumer Education Initiative—Many organizations will refurbish and donate used electronics to charities and nonprofits that can use them. Those that recycle ancient or broken equipment can be found at ECyclingCentral.com.

Tips for the Best Yard Sale Ever How to Profitably Give Unwanted Stuff a New Life by Sarah Tarver-Wahlquist

ach American discards an average of 4.4 pounds of personal garbage a day according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Half of what we toss can be recycled. A yard sale can both clear out the clutter and keep reusable items in circulation.

ask: How long have I lived with this? How often did I need it? How often will I use it now and in the future? Check with neighbors and friends to see if they want to join in a multifamily sale likely to draw more potential buyers.

Assemble Merchandise

Advertise

In assembling merchandise from all around the house, make it a family affair, with everyone contributing things to consider together. Before putting any item in the “keep” pile,

Getting the word out is essential. Place a yard sale listing in a local newspaper, either for free or a small fee. Free online posting is available at Craigslist.org and GarageSaleHunter.com. Also, post

The Freecycle Network™ is made up of 5,286 groups with 9,128,142 members around the world. It's a grassroots and entirely nonprofit movement of people who are giving and getting stuff for free in their own towns. It's all about reuse and keeping good stuff out of landfills. Stamford, Bridgeport, Danbury, Litchfield, Newtown, Shelton and Westport each have groups moderated by local volunteers and membership is free. There are some rules such as no alcohol, tobacco, firearms, weapons, profanity, sexual content, and medications of any kind, including over-the-counter supplements.

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

ExcessAccess.org—This service matches business and household item donations with the wish lists of nonprofits that provide pick-ups. Goodwill Industries—Check the yellow pages or Goodwill.org to find a nearby donation site and store; 85 percent of profits support employment services. The Salvation Army—Check the yellow pages or SalvationArmyUSA. org to find the organization’s nearest donation site (by zip code) or schedule a pickup (click Ways You Can Help); 100 percent of profits from sales fund its service programs. Vietnam Veterans of America— Pick-ups usually can be scheduled the same week; accepts a full range of household items for use by veterans’ families (PickUpPlease.org). flyers (on recycled paper) seven to 10 days before the sale along busy streets in the community. On the event day, make sure that large, bright signs in the neighborhood lead buyers to the sale. Reuse cardboard from old boxes to save money and recycle signs and flyers afterwards. Cindy Skrzynecki, of Minneapolis, who has monitored the phenomenon, notes, “Shoppers tend to equate the size of a sign with the size of a sale, so a few large, well-placed signs may draw more people to you than several smaller signs.” Skrzynecki says that holiday weekends or weekends that coincide with popular local events are excellent because, “You’ll provide a fun activity for people that stay in town.”

Set Up

How items are displayed is important. Here’s how to make old stuff as attractive as possible to buyers. The cleaner the better. Make sure all items are presentable. Make items visible. Arrange a display that’s catchy and organized. Use tabletops and bookcases; even improvised surfaces can work, such as plywood atop buckets. Show clothing effectively. Hangers are better than folded piles that get messy. Does this thing work? Have an extension cord handy so people can test electrical devices, and provide a measuring tape for furniture and other large items. Have batteries on hand for testing items like flashlights or electronic games. Label things that don’t work and price accordingly for those that know how to fix things or strip parts. Ensure the price is right. All items should be clearly priced via a small sticker; buyers quickly tire of asking and sellers may not recall earlier answers. For multiple sellers, use a different colored sticker for each, remove the stickers as items sell, and use the totals from the stickers to divide profits at day’s end. Use creative labeling. Provide buyers with uses for odd items. Sunny Wicka, author of Garage Sale Shopper, says, “Sales can be made solely by suggesting a novel use.” Also spark the shopper’s imagination by combining art supplies— like old magazines, papers, markers, paints and knickknacks— on a table labeled “Great for Art!” or group household items, crates and blankets labeled “Going Away to College?” Prepare for early birds. Yard sale pros arrive early to scour sales for the best deals. Be prepared to bargain or else make it clear that prices are fixed via a few friendly signs. After the initial rush, consider accepting bargain offers. During the final hour, consider cutting prices in half.

Ready, Set, Sell

Summer and early fall are good times for yard sales. Make it exceptional, a place where people will have fun and want to hang around (more browsing time often means more purchases). Play upbeat music, set up a children’s play area and maybe a kids’ lemonade stand as cool drinks help keep shoppers refreshed and cheerful. Consider sharing the fruits of family hobbies such as homemade items, plant cuttings or herbs in hand-painted clay pots and cut flowers. Shoppers appreciate such personal touches.

Arrange for the Aftermath

Arrange a charity donation pick-up beforehand to truck away leftover items. The Salvation Army and Vietnam Veterans of America regularly move still useful items into welcoming homes. For those that enjoy throwing yard sales, consider organizing charity yard sales in the community. Engage a local place of worship, neighborhood association or school to help people recycle their old stuff while also raising funds for worthy causes. Sarah Tarver-Wahlquist is a frequent contributor to Green American magazine (GreenAmerica.org), from which this was adapted. For more tips, visit YardSaleQueen.com/yardsale.htm.

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eNaturalAwakenings.com

May 2016

naturalpet

Stressed-Out Pets Natural Ways to Calm Fear and Anxiety

The Monthly Naturally Healthy Pet Section Starts Here!

by Sandra Murphy

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

Fairfield County Edition

hile most American pets live on easy street, with meals, treats, exercise outings and affection provided, the good life also poses challenges—dogs and cats can get stressed. “Basic stress is fear-based. Separation or isolation anxiety requires in-depth training,” says JennaLee Gallicchio, a certified separation anxiety trainer who uses scientific and hands-off techniques at her All Stars Dog Training, in Bedminster, New Jersey. She authors a bestselling series that was launched with The Secret to Getting Your Dog to Do What You Want. A drug like Reconcile, the pet version of Prozac, looks like a quick fix, but can bring many harmful side effects. Laurel Braitman, Ph.D., of Sausalito, California, bestselling author of Animal Madness: How Anxious Dogs, Compulsive Parrots, and Elephants in Recovery Help Us Understand Ourselves, estimates that 70 million U.S. dogs are given the same drugs their humans use for anxiety or depression. Considering the potential dangers, such drugs should only be used briefly as a last resort with veterinary supervision to ensure the proper dosage based on age, size and temperament. There are more natural and safer alternatives.

Common Stressors

Dogs hear sounds at four times the distance we do; cats hear even better. Thunderstorms, fireworks, traffic, TV, music and children can unnerve them.

natural awakenings

Add in a new home, baby, another pet or anticipation of car rides associated with fear of the veterinarian and even normally mellow pets can get upset. Irregular work hours undermine established routines. Pet or human health issues, plus household drama, add special reasons to fret. Pets separated from their litters too early can experience anxiety as adults.

Stress Less Strategies

“Let your dog have a space where he can retreat when he’s had enough,” advises Dr. Carol Osborne, owner of Ohio’s Chagrin Falls Veterinary Center & Pet Clinic. She recommends Bach’s Five Flower Formula, diluted chamomile essential oil or a pet-safe tincture of the Chinese herb skullcap for additional relief. Dogs like routine. “Regular exercise helps, including two, 20-minute daily walks. A tired pet is a happy pet,” Osborne says. “Walks can eliminate stress and anxiety by 50 percent for you both.” “Cats need exercise that mimics hunting; cats stare and plan, stalk or chase, pounce and grab,” says Marci Koski, certified by the Animal Behavior Institute and owner of Feline Behavior Solutions, in Vancouver, Washington. “An indoor cat’s prey drive can be met with interactive toys.” A place to climb or hide and a window with a view will help as will periodic playtime catching moving

toys; with nothing to catch, a laser pointer’s red dots are frustrating for a cat and a potential danger to its eyes. “Two of my large dogs were anxious during a three-day power outage,” says Kimberly Gauthier, a dog nutrition blogger at KeepTheTailWagging. com, in Marysville, Washington. “I add Ewegurt, a sheep’s milk yogurt, to their food to calm them when needed.” Clicker training rewards desired behaviors. “Ralphie, an Italian greyhound mix, was protective, but also fearful; before going outside, we’d practice sit, stay and come using a click/treat. Now he sees other dogs without reacting,” relates Katrina Wilhelm, a naturopathic physician and owner of DrKatrinaWilhelm.com, in Lake Oswego, Oregon. It works when someone knocks on the door, too. Soothing music covers the sounds of storms and fireworks, counsels Lisa Spector, an award-winning concert pianist

into her carrier to go to the vet isn’t always easy. London’s Simon Tofield, animator and cartoonist for Simon’s Cats videos and books, suggests making the crate comfy and leaving it out so the cat gets used to it; keeping it out of reach of curious dogs at the vet’s office; and only opening it upon arrival in the exam room. His local vet staff explains more at Tinyurl.com/ CatVetProtocol.

Signs of Pet Stress 4 Aggression toward people or other animals 4 Digestive problems 4 Excessive barking/meowing 4 Forgetful of housetraining 4 Increased sleep 4 Isolation 4 Loss of appetite 4 Pacing 4 Pulling out fur

New View

in Half Moon Bay, California, who creates the Through a Dog’s Ear clinically tested music series to relieve pet anxiety, inclusive of cats. “Although many holistic animal lovers want natural stress relievers, few think of auditory options,” she says. Getting kitty

“Stressors for dogs and cats are different. As a veterinarian, I explain situations from the animal’s perspective,” says Jennifer Quammen, with the Grants Lick Veterinary Hospital, in Butler, Kentucky. “I say, ‘From the cat’s point of view…’ As the animal advocate, I feel it’s my professional obligation.” “We bring pets into our world and expect them to adjust. Dogs, in particular, try so hard,” says Spector. They need our attention, shared activities and most of all, our understanding. Connect with Sandra Murphy at StLouisFreelanceWriter@mindspring.com.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

May 2016

Six Dimensions of Wellness for Dogs by Mary Oquendo

r. Bill Hettler of the National Wellness Institute developed a model for quality of life he calls the Six Dimensions of Wellness. The six tenets are occupational, physical, spiritual, emotional, social and intellectual. As we are all living beings, human and animal needs mirror each other. The path to achieve these goals is all that is different, so we can adapt and apply these quality of life principles for the dogs in our lives. Occupational All dogs want to do something. ~ Bernie Rogers Dogs are pack animals. They work for the betterment of their community. In modern times, it’s the household in which they live. In addition, dogs over the years have been bred for specific characteristics. When you put those two components together, dogs will usually find their own “job” if they are not provided with one; it will most likely be along the lines of what they were bred to do. This is not always a good thing as it may involve destructive or unwanted behaviors. Dachshunds that were bred to hunt badgers might dig a hole in your sofa. Beagles are single-minded scent trackers; they smell something and off they go. Shel-

Final Journey,

LLC

( Pet Euthanasia Service )

Kristen Klie, D.V. M. and Associates

( 203 ) 645-5570 www.finaljourneyllc.com

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

ties could nip little kids in an attempt to herd them. Examples of jobs include: • Agility, coursing, dock diving, barn trials, hiking or any other sport • Therapy or comfort dogs at nursing home • Wearing a doggie backpack to carry items • Breed specific opportunities such as pulling carts or sleds, hunting or herding • Walk around your home at night with you to secure the premises Observe your dog and find a job that mimics his behaviors. You may be able to turn destructive into constructive behavior. Handicapped dogs need jobs as well. Spirit is a blind husky who travels across the country with his owner teaching at professional pet educational conferences. Spirit greets all the students and is on hand to be petted and offers up his leg so that students can feel a pulse on a dog during a pet first aid class. Physical Exercise releases serotonin, also known as the happy hormone. Dogs can get exercise through their job or by a daily walk or hike, as well as play time with other pets and family members. Spiritual Dogs are connected to Mother Earth. They make that connection when their paws are on the ground, meaning the earth and not man-made surfaces. Keep in mind that there are situations that can cause harm to paws such as hot pavement, sand and ice. Emotional Dogs love us. They need to feel the love from us as well. A cuddle and some time alone with your dog is time well spent and important for your dog’s well-being. Social Back to the pack. Dogs are not solitary creatures. Even if they do not like other dogs or even children, they still need one-on-one contact with a person. Intellectual Have you ever had to spell out a word in front of your dog only to realize your dog had figured out what it meant? Dogs need mental stimulation. There are treat toys designed to make the dog think about how to get the treat. You can hide treats around the house or yard and make a game of it. All six proponents are intertwined with each other. A hike alone could satisfy all six at one time. A cuddle could be occupational (it’s their job to offer you comfort), emotional and social. A walk around the outside of the home before locking up at night could be occupational, physical, spiritual and social. Mary Oquendo is a Reiki master, advanced crystal master and certified master pet tech pet first aid instructor. She is the co-owner of Hands and Paws-Reiki for All. She can be reached at HandsandPawsReiki.com. See ad, page 22.

petresourceguide ADOPTION/RESCUE ANIMALS IN DISTRESS INC. 238 Danbury Rd, Wilton 203-762-2006 • Animals-In-Distress.com BRIDGEPORT ANIMAL CONTROL 236 Evergreen St, Bridgeport 203-576-7727

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

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

PAUL’S CUSTOM PET FOOD LLC PO Box 794, New Milford 603-706-0739 Paul@PaulsCustomPetFood.com PaulsCustomPetFood.com

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

Nutrition is your pet’s best friend. We c r e a t e h a n d m a d e , p e rsonalized pet food and treats with ingredients that are organic, free of GMOs, synthetic chemicals, added growth hormones, unnecessary antibiotics, and preservatives. Food is handmade in small batches. See website for details about ordering or customizing for your pet’s special needs.

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

BULLY BREED RESCUE PO Box 953, New Canaan BBRCT@yahoo.com BullyBreedRescueInc.org

PET NUTRITION

TAILS OF COURAGE 1 Pembroke Rd, Danbury 877-63-TAILS • TailsOfCourage.org

VETERINARY SERVICES

WESTPORT ANIMAL SHELTER ADVOCATES (WASA) 1 Tower Ridge, Westport 203-557-0361 • WestportWASA.org

NUTMEG SPAY/NEUTER CLINIC 25 Charles St, Stratford 203-690-1550 • NutmegClinic.org

HOLISTIC MOBILE GROOMING MARY OQUENDO

203-994-5308 MaryOquendo.com Mary@PawsitivelyPretty.com

Pet grooming in a relaxed one on one environment in your driveway by a leader in the Prep Work Work •• Sanding Sanding •• Taping Taping PET ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY INC. (PAWS) Prep holistic groom-ing industry. Patching • Repairs • Carpentry Patching • Repairs • Carpentry 504 Main Ave, Norwalk Mary also offers reiki and crystal Environmentally Friendly Environmentally Friendly 203-750-9572 • PAWSCT.org therapy for your beloved pets.

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 only 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 an even more reduced rate, and the clinic offers spay/neuter and vaccine discounts for feral cats. See ad, page 57.

Call Phil Today! We will will Gladly Gladly Provide Provide We References References CT Lic. Lic. 55081C 55081C CT Fully Insured Insured Fully

Lend yourself to

others, but give yourself to yourself. ~Michel de Montaigne

Commercial Green Cleaning Available for HOME! SNO = Safe-Natural-Organics Safe enough to clean Appliances, Counters, Stainless & Chrome. Tough enough to Remove Dirt, Oils & Pet Stains from Carpeting, Floors & Blankets. SNO works great to remove Wine & Coffee Stains from Linens, Clothing & Laundry. SNO gets rid of all odors. Use for Pets Carriers, Diaper Hampers & Pails, Gym - Diaper Bags. SNO is Safe Around Children & Pets. 100% Plant Based Kosher Certified Ingredients. Made from Citrus Essential Oils Free of Dyes & Perfumes. Manufactured in USA FDA Food Grade Facility.

The SNO Company, LLC Email: thesnoco@gmail.com Visit us @ www.thesnocompany.com - full product line eNaturalAwakenings.com

May 2016

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

calendarofevents

markyourcalendar

Magazine calendar events must be received by May 12 (for June issue) and adhere to our guidelines. All calendar submissions must be entered online at eNaturalAwakenings.com: click on “submit calendar” at the very top of the page.

Hypnosis Certification Course

SUNDAY, MAY 1 Monday Morning Meditation – 11:30am-12:30pm. With Beth Leas. Practical approach and individualized support. Great for those new to meditation and sage meditators. We will explore different meditation techniques. $100. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. TLCCenter@aol.com. BethLeas.com. Restorative Yoga with Tibetan Singing Bowls – 4:30-6:30pm. With Marie-Anne Gajdosik, yoga teacher, and Judy Vuozzo, Tibetan Singing Bowls musician. De-stress and rejuvenate with this beautiful, healing class. $35/advance, $40/day of. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-7302400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.

MONDAY, MAY 2 Health and Wellness Council Meeting – 8:159:30am. Group of health and wellness professionals who are members of the Ridgefield Chamber of Commerce. Meetings held monthly, the first Monday of every month (excl. August). First two meetings free. Ridgefield. 203-438-5992. JMulhern@ RidgefieldChamber.org. RidgefieldChamber.org.

TUESDAY, MAY 3 Karen Newman: Inspirational Speaker, Author, World-class Triathlete, Mother, Survivor – 7-8:30pm. Speaking event featuring Karen. Her new book, Just Three Words, will be on sale as well as autographed. $25. Halo Studios, 45 Grove St, New Canaan. 203-594-1552. Julie@PryorityWellness.com. Clients.MindBodyOnline.com. Naam Yoga Healing Circle – 8-8:45pm. With Linda Fiske. Guided mantra and breath meditation

markyourcalendar Transcend Horizons LLC and YWCA Greenwich Presents

Chakra Healing and Meditation 101

featuring Chakra expert from India - Smita Jayakar Saturday, May 21 • 9:30am-4:30pm

Spend a day nurturing yourself through a one-day Chakra Healing and Meditation workshop with renowned Chakra Healing and Meditation expert from India – Smita Jayakar. Learn about the Chakra system and techniques to tune in to and open up the seven energy centers of the subtle body. YWCA Greenwich, 259 East Putnam Ave, Greenwich Cost: $150 (Includes Lunch and Tea) Limited Capacity Event Ticket booking at Transcend.events

to promote healing. Come and pray for yourself and/or others. $5/donation. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4 Westchester-Fairfield Go Red for Women Health & Wellness Exhibition – 9:30am-noon. Exhibition provides attendees with opportunities to learn about their risk for heart disease and stroke and measures they could take to mitigate their risk. Free. Stamford Marriott Hotel & Spa, 243 Tresser Blvd, Stamford. 203-295-2941. Deena.Kaye@Heart.org. WestfairGoRedLuncheon.Heart.org. The Art of Meditation – 6-7pm. Whether you are new to meditation or seasoned, this class will help you access inner peace and experience more clarity, purpose & joy! Suggested donation $10, any offering accepted. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@YogaSpace-CT.com. YogaSpace-CT.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 5 Way of the Tea: The Tea Culture of China – 7-8:30pm. Dr. Bruce will introduce you to the Chinese Tea Culture and explain various teas and their healing/medicinal properties. $20 donation. Free if you bring a guest. SOPHIA Natural Health Center, 31 Old Rt 7, Brookfield. 203-740-9300. Info@ SophiaNaturalHealth.com. INM.Center/Events.

FRIDAY, MAY 6 Reiki Level 1 Workshop – 10am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki master (20 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. 2 manuals and certificate. $125. Angelic Healing Center for Reiki, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@ snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com. Naam Yoga New Moon Celebration – 7:30-9pm. With Regina Snyder. The best time to manifest and bring in all things new, health, abundance, and prosperity. $18.08. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@ NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com. Monthly Shamanic Healing Drum Circle – 7:30-10pm. Enhance your connection to energy, spirit and Mother Earth for guidance and healing through Native American methods. Drums and rattles provided. $20/pre-registration. Hunter Healing Hands, 215 Harbor Ave, Bridgeport. 203916-8381. HunterHealingHands@hotmail.com. HunterHealingHands.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 7 Reiki 1st Degree Workshop – 9:30am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki master (20 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and

100-hour Course with Lisa Zaccheo, MA, BCH, BCI June 18-25

Open doors to a better future. Not just something different, something that makes a difference. “This course exceeded my expectations! Truly life changing.” ~ Margaret Tuition: $2,489 Mind Matters Hypnosis Center, LLC Branford, CT Call to see if you qualify: 860-693-6448 Info: http://bit.ly/CERTCOURSE healing for others. 2 manuals and certificate. $125. Angelic Healing Center for Reiki, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@ snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com. Saturday Morning Spring Walks – 10:30am-noon. Flat, one-mile loop where you will roll logs in search of insects and salamanders too. All ages welcome (no strollers). Registration required. Free/CAS members; $3/non-members. The Connecticut Audubon Society Center at Fairfield, 2325 Burr St, Fairfield. 203-259-6305, x109. JGuenther@CTAudubon.org. CTAudubon.org/Center-at-Fairfield. Spiritual Psychic Fair – Noon-5pm. Gifted and caring intuitives and healers available for readings and healing sessions. All are welcome. Sessions approx. 25 mins. Appointments available, walk-ins welcome. $45 and up for readings, $30 for healing. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. My10Cats@ optonline.net. AlbertsonChurch.org.

THURSDAY, MAY 12 Bow Wow Wow! Herbal Dog Treat Workshop – 7-9pm. Join us in creating Passionflower Chaga Dog Treats and play the Woof! Woof! Challenge. $20 per person. Materials included. Grounded Holistic Wellness, LLC, Woodbury. GroundedHolisticWellness@ yahoo.com. GroundedHolisticWellness.com.

FRIDAY, MAY 13 Introduction to Chakradance – 6-7:30pm. With Khristee Rich, Chakradance Facilitator. Dance workshop includes creating an art mandala in a candlelit room. No dance experience necessary. Adults of all ages. $30. Basil Yoga Center, 31 Bailey Ave, Ridgefield. 203-403-2280. Info@BasilYoga.com. BasilYoga.com. Spring Weekend Retreat – 5/13-5/15. Deepen your meditation practice by allowing you to cultivate self-awareness for an extended period of time without distraction. All attendees will have a private interview period with Achan Da. $60/weekend, $30/one day. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 14 Owl Tales – 10:30am-noon. Meet CAS resident, nonreleasable owls up close. Learn about their features and habits, and examine owl pellets. Children must be

eNaturalAwakenings.com

May 2016

markyourcalendar

Sholom, 2385 Park Ave, Bridgeport. 203-334-0159. Mica3@sbcglobal.net. RodephSholom.com.

Coalition of Co-Creators presents

Exploring the Afterlife – 7:30-9pm. A New Kind of Spiritual Book and Film Club. Have you had communication with a deceased loved one? We will learn and share together as we explore the afterlife. $25/includes light refreshments. 17 Fulling Mill Ln, Ridgefield. DMinc100@aol.com. DeanneMincer.com.

Change – Changing – Changed A Dramatic Musical Illuminating Journey

Saturday, May 14 • 10:45am-4:45pm Join healing practitioners, passionate change agents, brilliant speakers, sublime musicians and mystic poets on a dramatic interactive day journey through change – changing – changed! Wainwright House, Rye, NY Register at Wainwright.org able to sit during presentation. No strollers. $5. Connecticut Audubon Society Center at Fairfield, 2325 Burr St, Fairfield. 203-259-6305, x109. JGuenther@ CTAudubon.org. CTAudubon.org/Center-at-Fairfield. Mudras for Awakening the Energy Body – 3-5pm. With Alison DeNicola. Workshop to awaken, balance & restore the energy body using mudras (powerful yogic hand positions), postures, sound and guided meditation. $32/before 5/13; $40/at door. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-YOGA. Info@YogaSpace-CT.com. YogaSpace-CT.com. Spiritual Conversations: An Afternoon of Joy, Wisdom, and Community – 3:30-5pm. Meet Basil Jones, owner of Basil Yoga Center and Vinyasa Yoga Instructor, and Khristee Rich, Actress, Healer and Chakradance Facilitator. Come for tea, joy, wisdom, and to engage with your spiritual community. Free. Basil Yoga Center, 31 Bailey Ave, Ridgefield. 203403-2280. Info@BasilYoga.com. BasilYoga.com.

MONDAY, MAY 16 Questions & Answers about Reiki – 7-9:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master. 7-8:30pm: non-Reiki practitioners, $5. 8:15-9:30pm: Reikicertified practitioners, $10. Western Style & Jikiden Eastern Style Mini- Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

TUESDAY, MAY 17 The Art of Meditation – 6-7pm. Whether you are new to meditation or seasoned, this class will help you access inner peace and experience more clarity, purpose & joy! Suggested donation $10, any offering accepted. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@YogaSpace-CT.com. YogaSpace-CT.com. The Conversation – 7-9pm. Come join in a monthly discussion on various topics regarding life, death and end-of-life care. Excerpts from the acclaimed documentary Griefwalker will be shown and discussed. Alliance for Conscious Transitioning, Weston. 203-556-9521. Info@AllianceFCT. com. AllianceFCT.com.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 18 Spring into Good Health – 10am-4pm. A health fair featuring nearly 20 health care professionals and agencies in the Greater Bridgeport area showcasing ways to maintain and improve healthy living for all ages. Free. Congregation Rodeph

Fairfield County Edition

THURSDAY, MAY 19 Crystal Energy Chakra Meditation & Messages: Communing With Earth – 7-9pm. With Mary Beth Canty. Meditation will include a guided imagery Full Chakra Clearing, an attunement and empowerment of your crystal and channeled messages for each person. Special price $45 (regularly $60). Mother Earth Gallery, 449 Danbury Rd, New Milford. 203775-6272. MotherEarthBrookfield@gmail.com. MotherEarthCrystals.com. Melody Astral Nucleus Circle: A Group Intuitive, Shamanic & Crystal Healing Experience – 7-9pm. Group and individual crystal and shamanic healing to connect with spirit for guidance, healing, messages, and inspiration. $40/pre-registration. Hunter Healing Hands, 215 Harbor Ave, Black Rock, Bridgeport. 203-916-8381. HunterHealingHands@hotmail.com. HunterHealingHands.com.

FRIDAY, MAY 20 David Young: Experience a Portal Between Heaven and Earth – 7-9pm. David Young’s music allows one to connect to spiritual realms including the ascended masters and the angels. David will provide two guided musical meditations followed by a question and answer session. $25/ advance tickets, $30/at door. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. AlbertsonChurch@gmail.com. AlbertsonChurch.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 21 The Play Zone – 9am-1pm. The Play Zone Group Coaching Concept - Explore 5 roles that lead to a daily fulfilled life. Learn how to design and embrace the future through movement. Bring water, sneakers and active wear. $40. Triangle Community Center, 618 West Ave, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-5151339. Eleiva777@gmail.com. Feeding Time – 11am. Meal time at the Connecticut Audubon Society Center at Fairfield. Come watch Audubon’s animal caretaker and naturalist staff feed some of the animal residents and answer your questions. Free. Connecticut Audubon Society Center at Fairfield, 2325 Burr St, Fairfield. 203-259-6305, x109. JGuenther@CTAudubon.org. CTAudubon.org/ Center-at-Fairfield. Naam Yoga Full Moon Celebration – 8-9:30pm. The Full Moon is a time for healing. Bring your mental, emotional and physical bodies into balance. Let go of unhealthy patterns, sending healing to places in need and opening yourself to receive Divine Love. $18.08. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. DebClelland@gmail.com. NaamYogaCT.com.

TUESDAY, MAY 24 Flower & Gem Essence Workshop – 6:308:30pm. With Lupo Passero. Explore making, taking and communicating with both flower and

natural awakenings

gem essences to encourage the awakening of our highest self and inspire transformation while alleviating our fears and negative ideas. $35. Mother Earth Gallery, 449 Danbury Rd, New Milford. 203-775-6272. MotherEarthBrookfield@gmail. com. MotherEarthCrystals.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 26 Guided Healing Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Guided healing meditation channeled from the Archangels, using quartz crystal chakra healing bowls. $15. Sticks & Stones Farm, 197 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown. 203-364-6262. CarlaBarzetti9@yahoo.com. AllCalmDown.com. The Dandelion: Folklore, Fluff and Wish Necklace – 7-9pm. How did we come to make wishes on dandelions? Medicinal benefits of dandelion flowers, root and leaves. Sample dandelion herbal teas. $25/per person. All materials included. Grounded Holistic Wellness, LLC, Woodbury. 860-3544881. GroundedHolisticWellness@yahoo.com. GroundedHolisticWellness.com.

FRIDAY, MAY 27 Reiki Second Degree workshop – 10am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher (20 years). Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. 2 powerful energy connections from my short Japanese/Usa Linage. Two manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 28 Reiki Second Degree – 9:30am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher (20 years). Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. 2 powerful energy connections from my short Japanese/Usa Linage. Two manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

TUESDAY, MAY 31 Spiritual Life Coaching W/Essential Oils – 7-8:30pm. Certified pure therapeutic grade essential oils pave the way for deep emotional clearing and bring balance to our lives while eliminating toxins. $15. Sticks & Stones Farm, 197 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown. 203-364-6262. CarlaBarzetti9@yahoo. com. BrilliantSoul.com. Chakradance – 8-9:30pm. Free-form dancing, meditation, and creating an art mandala by candlelight. No dance experience necessary, just a willingness to try a new dance. Feel happy, refreshed, and invigorated. $35/drop-in or sign up for the series. Basil Yoga Center, 31 Bailey Ave, Ridgefield. 203403-2280. Info@BasilYoga.com. BasilYoga.com.

SUNDAY, JUNE 5 Die Wise: Author Talk with Stephen Jenkinson – 7-9pm. Author, teacher and subject of the documentary Grief Walker, will discuss his new book Die Wise - a manifesto for sanity and soul, addressing grief, dying and the great love of life. $35/registration required. Alliance for Conscious Transitioning, Liphe Balance Center, Weston. 203-912-2791. Info@AllianceFCT.com. AllianceFCT.com.

ongoingcalendar sunday Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 9:3010:45am. Beginner-level classes. Work on alignment, flexibility and strength in a way that is correct and nurturing for every body. $5/class (tax deductible donation to HCC). Hindu Cultural Center of Connecticut, 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. Wendy@AhimsaShantiYoga.com. AhimsaShantiYoga.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. Come together to share thoughts, experiences and wisdom in a supportive environment. 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. Young people ages 4 to 12 years old are invited to take part in our program during the 10am meditation session. While the adults are meditating in the main building, young people can connect with others in their age group. Contact Matt Keeler, Program Director. By donation. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, W Redding. 203-244-3130. Info@ ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Family Program (Kids and Teens) – 10-11:30am. First and third Sunday. Introducing kids to meditation, metta, yoga, art practice, a discussion of ness in everyday life, generosity, compassion, letting go of negative mind states and other basic Parents can meditate in the main building. Contact Matt Keeler at 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. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Family Meditation Program – 10-11:30am. Second & 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. Celebration Service – 10:30am-noon. With Rev. Shawn Moninger Inspiring message supports your spiritual unfoldment with thought provoking, soul healing topics and uplifting music. By donation. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org. Albertson Church Service – 11am-12:30pm. Includes an inspirational talk from caring ministers, guided meditation, time to receive healing energy and spirit messages from those we continue to love. Free. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-637-4615. Karma Yoga Classes for Charity – 4:30-5:30pm. All money collected through contributions to this class will be donated to a local charity. $10 suggested donation. LifePath Yoga & Wellness, 430

Main Ave, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-354-7070. Nina@ LifePathYoga.net. LifePathYoga.net.

monday Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Vinyasa Yoga – 7:30-8:30pm. With Raffaela, certified yoga instructor. Begin your exploration of connecting the breath with movement as you develop strength, endurance, flexibility and optimal body alignment. $15, first class free. Class cards available. The Recharging Station, 241 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-241-1497. Yoga.For.Me241@gmail.com. Free Guided Meditation – 1pm: first and third Wednesday. 7:30pm: second Monday. With Dr. Allen Levy. Session is catered towards providing information about the way in which meditation can assist with specific social, emotional and physical health need. Free. Sabita Holistic Center, 3519 Post Rd, Southport. 203-254-2633. Sabita@SabitaHolisticCenter.com. SabitaHolisticCenter.com. Monday Meditation for Everyone – 7:30-9pm. This is Meditation Guided Imagery for relaxation and stress reduction. It also helps you move forward on your spiritual path. No experience necessary. $20. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plain St, Bethel. 203-570-3868. 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 Yoga Therapeutics – 9-10:15am. With Dr. Kathy Sward. Designed for those with chronic pain, health conditions, prevention and other health concerns. Traditional poses are expertly modified to allow the mind to calm, joints to align and muscles lengthen and strengthen. $15. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-207-1613. Dr.KathySward@gmail.com. DrKathySward.com. Healing Flow – 9:30-10:30am. Series of stretches, moves and poses; concentrating on breath. Improve flexibility and core strength while reducing stress. Create a lasting sense of calm. $14. 3 Rt 39, Unit #5, New Fairfield. 203-885-0577. WholeFitNF@ gmail.com. EarthFITnf.com/Whole-Fit. Toastmasters – Noon. Interested in public speaking? Monroe-Trumbull Toastmasters is a chartered club of Toastmasters International dedicated to improving members’ communication and leadership skills. Meets alternate Tuesdays. Body Smart, Crescent Village, 115 Main St, Unit 11, Monroe. 203-459-6773. Franny. Hannigan@charter.com. ToastMastersClubs.org.

Tai Chi Classes – Noon-1pm & 6-7pm. With Tai Chi Master Rich. For all levels of fitness. Known to reduce stress, increase focus and balance. Focus is on purposeful work to improve well-being and self. $25/drop-in, $85/1 class per week-month. $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690.. Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 12:30-2pm. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Kung Fu Classes – 1-2pm & 7-8pm. With Sensei Rich. The ancient of art of Kung Fu is known for its ability to increase mental focus, strength, flexibility and balance and for its self defense moves. $25/ drop-in, $85/1 class per week-month. $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690. Kids & Tween Yoga – 4:30-5:15pm. K-5th. With Beth Furman. 4-week series. LifePath Yoga & Wellness, 430 Main Ave, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203354-7070. NAntolino@aol.com. LifePathYoga.net. Meditating Holistically – 6:30-8pm. With Urgyan, a Western Buddhist lama sharing a rich practice of traditional meditation guidance directed toward holistic integration. Group meditation and discussion, devoted to our mutual innermost truths. $15. ah Yoga, 168 New Milford Tpke, New Preston. 860-868-6707 or Danbury Area Vajrayana Buddhist Meditation on Meetup.com. Metaphysics 1 Class – 7pm. With Shawn Moninger. Course explores some of Unity fundamental principles as well as the highest form of mind action: prayer. Students will be encouraged to awaken their awareness and understanding of spiritual truth. Love Offering. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org. Angelic Healing Group – 7-9pm. First Tuesday. Experience the healing energy of the Angelic Realm. Your energy body will be infused with the love and light of the Divine through meditation and hands-on touch. $20. Stevens Memorial Church, 8 Shady Ln, South Salem, NY. 203-438-4893. Yoga Class or Yoga/Float – Yoga: 7-8pm. or Yoga/ Float package: 7-9pm. Enjoy the benefits of yoga in the beautiful PuREST relaxation room. $15/yoga only. $65/yoga & float package. PuREST Float Center, 35 Corporate Dr, Trumbull. PuRESTFloat.com. Reiki Shares – 7:30-10:15pm. First and third Tuesdays. Gigi Benanti Usui/Karuna Reiki Master/ Teacher. For Reiki practitioners only. Exchange ongoing since 1996. Instructions included. $20. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. Pre-register: 203-852-1150.

wednesday Preschool Open House – 10:30-11:30am. The Clover Hill School invites you to experience our classrooms. Play-based program, inspired by Waldorf Education, in a welcoming and green environment for ages 2 months to 6 years old. Call or email to schedule a visit. Free. The Clover Hill School, Christ Episcopal Church, 2 Emerson, Norwalk. 203-661-6484. Sarah@TheCloverHillSchool.org. TheCloverHillSchool.org. Understanding Brain Wave Training – 10:3011:30am. First & third Wednesday. Discuss how conditions such as ADD, anxiety, insomnia, chronic

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May 2016

ongoingcalendar pain and others have unique, abnormal brainwave patterns that can be improved using BrainCore Neurofeedback Therapy. Free. Halo Studios - Club Room, 45 Grove St, (upstairs in tennis center), New Canaan. 203-316-8212. Info@NorwalkBrainCore. com. NorwalkBrainCore.com. Baby Boomer and Beyond Yoga – 10:30am-noon. Yoga for the young at heart. Taught by Deanne Mincer, with 30 years experience as teacher. In private setting, heated, carpeted floor. With close attention to aging issues. $80/4 weeks, $25/drop-in. 16 Fulling Mill Ln, Ridgefield. DMinc100@aol. com. DeanneMincer.com. Free Guided Meditation – 1pm: first and third Wednesday. 7:30pm: second Monday. With Dr. Allen Levy. Session is catered towards providing information about the way in which meditation can assist with specific social, emotional and physical health need. Free. Sabita Holistic Center, 3519 Post Rd, Southport. 203-254-2633. Sabita@SabitaHolisticCenter.com. SabitaHolisticCenter.com. Vinyasa Yoga – 6:15pm. In Vinyasa yoga, your movements are synchronized to the breath. This style is sometimes also called flow yoga, because of the smooth way that the poses run together and become like a dance. $14 or co-op rate. 3 Rt 39, Unit #5, New Fairfield. 203-885-0577. WholeFitNF@ gmail.com. EarthFITnf.com/Whole-Fit. Reiki Share – 6:30-8:30pm. First Wednesday. With June and Tracy. Come join our circle of practitioners for sharing and caring and healing. All levels of practitioners are welcome. Please RSVP. $15. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690. Meditation – 7-8pm. Transform you by healing the chakras through the release of long-held negative thoughts and beliefs, stagnant emotions, and discordant vibrations. Active-style meditation. All faiths and cultures welcomed. Perfect for all levels. By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail. com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com. Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Stamford Positive Living Forum – 7-8:30pm. Second Wednesday. Meetings feature inspirational speakers who aim to introduce you yo happiness boosters and techniques to lead to emotional and physical well-being, happiness and an overall sense of positivity. Free. Innovation Center of Stamford, Old Town Hall, 175 Atlantic St, Stamford. 203-962-1062. Donna.M.Vella@gmail.com. HappinessClub.com. Journey Group – 7-9pm. First Wednesday. With Cindy Miller. If you are looking to get unstuck, learn more about self-empowerment, becoming a healing facilitator, than this is the group for you. $20. Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West St, Newtown. 203-426-9448. Cindy@TrinityProduction. org. TrinityProduction.org. Psychic and Mediumship Development Class – 7-9pm. Develop your own psychic and spiritual communication skills. Meditation and exercises to develop psychic and mediumship skills. All are welcome. $20. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. AlbertsonChurch@ gmail.com. AlbertsonChurch.org.

Fairfield County Edition

Using Smart Body (Kinesiology) for Everyday Situations– 7-9pm. Third Wednesday. Learn how to sense the energy of foods, supplements, books, places and more. Learn how to change energy. Presentation and discussion. $20. Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West St, Newtown. 203-377-6162. Bruce.Zboray@yahoo.com. TrinityProduction.org. Holistic Moms Network Fairfield County, CT Chapter – 7:30pm. Second Wednesday. Associates in Family Chiropractic & Natural Health Care, 156 East Ave, Norwalk. Home.Homewebs.com/ HMNFairfieldCtyCT. 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.

thursday Tea and Meditation – 9:30-11am. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. 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. Thursday Morning Meditation for Moms – 9:3011am. Come and unwind with a Guided Meditative Journey geared to release stress and a healthful more positive understanding of self. $20. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plain St, Bethel. 203-570-3868. Tai Chi Classes – Noon-1pm & 6-7pm. With Tai Chi Master Rich. For all levels of fitness. Known to reduce stress, increase focus and balance. Focus is on purposeful work to improve well-being and self. $25/drop-in, $85/1 class per week-month. $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690. Endometriosis Support Group Meet Up – 1pm. SHC hosts a positive support group for those impacted by endometriosis. These meetings will be a great learning opportunity for women to receive and informative choices for managing the disease. Free. 3519 Post Rd, Southport. 203-254-2633. Sabita@ SabitaHolisticCenter.com. SabitaHolisticCenter. com/Endometriosis-Support. Kung Fu Classes – 1-2pm & 7-8pm. With Sensei Rich. The ancient of art of Kung Fu is known for its ability to increase mental focus, strength, flexibility and balance and for its self defense moves. $25/ drop-in, $85/1 class per week-month. $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690. CHADD/ADHD Parent Support Group – 7-8:30pm. 3rd and 4th Thursdays. Monthly discussion on parenting child(ren) with an ADD/ADHD diagnosis. Form connections with other parents and gain skills and education to support your child(ren). Free. The Offices of Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-438-4848. DrRoseannInfo@att.net. DrRoseann.com. EFT Tapping Circle Meetup – 7-8:30pm. Second and fourth Thursdays. Come learn about your energy

natural awakenings

body. Every month will be a different topic or exercise. No experience needed, all are welcome. $15. Location given with RSVP. 203-247-1318.Robin@ RobinFriedman.net. EnergyToolsForDailyLiving.com. Meditating Holistically – 7-8:30pm. With Urgyan, a Western Buddhist lama sharing a rich practice of traditional meditation guidance directed toward holistic integration. Group meditation and discussion, devoted to our mutual innermost truths. $15. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-YOGA or Danbury Area Vajrayana Buddhist Meditation on Meetup.com. Reiki Healing Circle – 7-9pm. Second Thursday. All welcome. Non-Reiki & Reiki practitioners share and experience Reiki. See details on Unity website. Hosted by Gigi Benanti Reiki master/teacher. $20. Unity Center for Practical Spirituality, 3 Main St, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGiGiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com, UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

friday 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. Free Mommy & Me Yoga – 10am. With Brooke de Weaver. We supply water and mats - just bring yourself and your kids. Free. Yogasmoga Townhouse, 68 Greenwich Ave, Greenwich. Student Massage Clinic – 11am-1pm. Relax and enjoy a full-body massage at the Danbury Campus public Student Massage Therapy Clinic. Wednesday evenings or Friday mornings available. $30/50 minutes. RidleyLowell Business & Technical Institute, 24 Shelter Rock Rd, Danbury. Call for appt: 203-748-0052. Teen Meditation – 5-6pm. This is an enjoyable approach to the understanding of self and how you fit into the world in which you can grow with confidence. Come and explore a guided meditative journey that helps to melt away stress and anxiety. For teens and up. $15. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plains St, Bethel. 203-570-3868. Discussion with Spirit – 7:30pm. Last Friday. Bring questions, receive channeled information to help understand who you are, why you’ve come to the earth plane and empower yourself with messages from Spirit and loved ones. $35. Private residence, Monroe. Information/RSVP: 203-268-3262.

saturday Angelic Reiki Meditation with Essential Oils – 8-9am. Receive short, hands-on Angelic Reiki, experience powerful techniques to reduce stress and relax. $10. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave (in the back, downstairs), Norwalk. Pre-register: 203-852-1150. Love Yourself Fit Meetings – 8:30am. Support for your sacred journey of real weight loss. Meetings offer you a place to be accountable to your highest vision for your healthiest self. $15. Insights Wellness Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe. 203-260-9353. ChrisGuerrera@me.com. InsightsWellnessCenter.com. Beach Yoga & Meditation – 8:30-9:45am. Nourish your body, mind and spirit practicing gentle flow yoga and meditation by the sea. All levels

welcome. During inclement weather, classes held indoors at Lifepath Yoga & Wellness. 4 for $70 (expires 2 months), 8 for $130 (expires 3 months). Calf Pasture Beach Rd, Norwalk. 203-354-7070. Nina@LifePathYoga.net. LifePathYoga.net. Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 9:30-10:45am. Beginner-level classes. Work on alignment, flexibility and strength in a way that is correct and nurturing for every body. $5/class (tax deductible donation to HCC). Hindu Cultural Center of Connecticut, 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. Wendy@AhimsaShantiYoga.com. AhimsaShantiYoga.com. Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Kids & Tween Yoga – 11:15am-12:15pm. K-5th. Sara Kate Venison. 4-week series. LifePath Yoga & Wellness, 430 Main Ave, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203354-7070. NAntolino@aol.com. LifePathYoga.net. 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, Dr. 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. Buddhist Teachings & Practice Discussion Group – 11:45am-1:15pm. Second and fourth Saturday. No class 5/14. Join a relaxed group, in a tranquil environment and explore some of the core principles of Buddhist practice. By donation. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 914-763-4639. Jexel@att.net. ReddingMeditation.org.

classifieds To place a Classified Listing: $1 per word. $25 minimum. Magazine deadline: 12th of month prior to publication. Email copy to NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com. HELP WANTED DISTRIBUTORS WANTED for monthly deliveries of Natural Awakenings and other local publications. Perfect for a retired person or stay-at-home mom looking to earn some extra income and connect with their local community. Honesty and dependability are the most important characteristics of our distributors if you don’t have it in spades, please do not apply! Thomas@ManInMotionLLC.com. DO YOU LOVE NATURAL AWAKENINGS? Would you like to help spread the word about natural health and personal empowerment? Contact Publisher Nicole Miale today about becoming a Community Street Team member to represent the magazine at some of our many upcoming community events. NicoleM@ NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide (CRG) in print and online email FFCadvertising@ NaturalAwakeningsMag.com to request our advertising rates. ACUPUNCTURE

CHIROPRACTIC

INGRI BOE-WIEGAARD, LAc

PETER BRAGLIA, DC

Fairfield, Wilton, Bethel 203-259-1660 CTAcupuncture.com 25-year full-time practice

True Health Family Chiropractic 7365 Main St, Stratford 203-923-8633 TrueHealthCT.com

Ingri treatments help alleviate Pain, Depression, Neck & Back, Anxiety, Headaches, Stress, Allergies, Asthma, Arthritis, Digestive, Menstrual, Infertility and Smoking & Weight Loss Issues. See ad, page 31.

JODY EISEMANN, LAc

Offices in Norwalk, Southport and Trumbull 203-216-2548 AcupunctureHealingCT.com High quality acupuncture for all. Benefit from the centuries-old and highly effective science of acupuncture and TCM. 25+ years of experience; acupuncture offered in private sessions as well as affordable group settings. Specializing in treating all kinds of pain and general health issues. See ad, page 19.

PATRICIA SINGER, MS, LAc 544 Riverside Ave, Westport 203-226-8897 PatSinger.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 County with our unique and gentle approach to health care.

RISA SLOVES, DC

Associates in Family Chiropractic & Natural Health Care 156 East Ave, Norwalk 203-838-1555 • CTChiropractic.com Dr. Risa Sloves is 1 of 12 Chiropractic Physicians in Connecticut with Board Certification in Maternity and Pediatric Care including Webster and Bagnell Tu r n i n g Te c h n i q u e s . A l s o provided: acupuncture, BioSET Allergy Elimination Technique and the DRX9000 Spinal Decompression. See ad, page 35.

COLONICS

As a Spiritual Alchemist, I use a customized one-on-one approach to connect on many levels to assist in the healing process. Modalities: acupuncture, shiatsu, aromatherapy, dietary therapy, sound and energy healing, ceremony and spiritual counseling.

BREAST THERMOGRAPHY

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.

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC

501 Kings Highway East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com

ALBA THERMAL IMAGING LLC

Safe, painless early detection 71 East Ave, Ste D, Norwalk 203-856-1421 • AlbaThermalImaging.com 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 20.

Ready to start feeling healthier? Take your first step with this gentle cleansing procedure. Watch our colonic and detoxification videos on our new video website located at WholeBodyMed.com. Call for Free CD on detoxification. See ad, page 2.

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May 2016

CRYSTALS

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

MOTHER EARTH GALLERY

449 Danbury Rd, New Milford 203-775-6272 • MotherEarthCrystals.com The area’s finest crystal shop for natural, polished and tumbled gemstones for healing or collecting. Handcrafted gemstone jewelry, candles, chimes, books as well as a showcase for local artisans.

EDUCATION HOUSATONIC VALLEY WALDORF SCHOOL

We develop each child’s unique capacity to engage meaningfully in the world by integrating experiential and artistic learning, academic excellence, respect for diversity and reverence for nature. See ad, page 9.

WESTBROOK NATURE SCHOOL 7 Long Ridge Rd, West Redding 203-664-1554 Info@WestbrookNatureSchool.org WestbrookNatureSchool.org

A nature-based education on six acres of trails, streams, and meadows, with an organic garden and natural playscapes. Our curriculum builds physical and emotional resilience, moral awareness and the foundation required for intellectual growth. See ad, page 37.

FLOATATION THERAPY iFLOAT

163 Main St, Westport 203-226-7378 iFloatSpa.net Experience this superior form of body/mind relaxation as you float effortlessly in warm water with high concentrations of Epsom salt. Relieve stress, chronic pain and more. See ad, page 45.

Specializing in clinical detoxification, fat loss, nutritional medicine, applied kinesiology and neurological-based chiropractic care. Stateof-the-art body composition analysis and physical assessment. Call today to experience the power of natural medicine.

CONNECTICUT HEADACHE & MIGRAINE RELIEF CENTER/ TOM ANZALONE, DDS

235 Glenville Rd, Ste 2B, Greenwich 203-531-5688 • CTHeadacheRelief.com Connecticut Headache and Migraine Rel i e f C e n t e r ’s (CHMRC) approach to head-ache pain relief actually addresses and treats the sources of the problem. Using techniques that have been proven effective in sports medicine, the CHMRC system targets improper muscle forces in the head, neck, and jaw area that cause painful conditions. See ad, page 17.

HEALTH COACH

35 Corporate Dr, Trumbull 203-445-6918 PurestFloat.com

Licensed RN, Nutritionist & Certified Health Coach 500 Monroe Tpke, Monroe • 203-521-4733 GilbertsonMary@yahoo.com Prescription4Wellness.com Working 1:1 in groups and corporations to develop customized healthy lifestyle plans. You receive tools to optimize your health through nutrition, disease management, exercise, weight loss & stress reduction. 28 years of experience supporting teens & adults in healthy lifestyle. Available for speaking engagements and health events. See ad, page 9.

MARK A. BREINER, DDS, FIAOMT

Float for stress and pain relief, relaxation and mental calmness. At PuREST we provide a relaxing environment from pre-float to post float. After your float, stay for complimentary tea and come back to earth in our oversize, inviting post float area. See ad, page 16.

MIND-BODY TRANSFORMATION HYPNOSIS 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 ad, pages 23 & 41.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PHYSICIAN HENRY C. SOBO, MD

Optimal Health Medical, LLC 111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-348-8805 DrSobo.com Dr. Sobo provides Natural Horm-one t h e r a p y, We i g h t R e d u c t i o n programs, IV Vitamin/Minerals treatments, Allergy evaluation and treatment, Fibromyalgia care, and treatment for a wide variety of problems utilizing an Integrative Medicine approach.

INTEGRATIVE NATURAL MEDICINE

MARY GILBERTSON, MS, BSN,CHHC

HOLISTIC DENTIST

PUREST FLOAT CENTER

Fairfield County Edition

Bluestone Health Group 47 Oak St, Ste 250, Stamford 203-220-6488 BluestoneHealthGroup.com

HEADACHE / PAIN RELIEF

40 Dodgingtown Rd, Newtown 203-364-1113 • WaldorfCT.org

KURT WAPLES, DC

HYPNOSIS

501 Kings Highway East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-0300 WholeBodyDentistry.com Dr. Mark A. Breiner is a pioneer and recognized authority in the field of holistic dentistry. With over 30 years of experience, he is a sought after speaker and lecturer. His popular consumer book, Whole-Body Dentistry, has been sold worldwide. See ad, page 2.

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SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER

Ken Hoffman, DAc, (RI), LAc, CCH, Medical Director Bruce Roff, LAc, LMT, Senior Associate Ashley Russell, ND Chris Maslowski, LAc, Resident Practitioner 31 Old Rt 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.

INTEGRATIVE OPTOMETRY EYECARE ASSOCIATES, PC

Randy Schulman, MS, OD, FCOVD, Stephen Carr, OD, Narvan Bakhtiari, OD, Brian Rodrigues, OD, Jason Rutherford, OD Locations: 6515 Main St, Trumbull • 203-374-2020 444 Westport Ave, Norwalk • 203-840-1991 2600 Post Rd, Southport • 203-255-4005 CTEyeCareAssociates.com We offer behavioral optometry, comprehensive vision exams, contact lenses and vision therapy. See ad, page 31.

MASSAGE SCHOOL

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN NATURAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER

FINGER LAKES SCHOOL OF MASSAGE

272 N Bedford Rd, Mount Kisco, NY 914-241-7363 FLSM.com Join us for a transformative experience as you develop your intuitive and scientific abilities to heal through therapeutic touch. Classes taught to auditory, visual and kinesthetic learners. Financial aid available for full and part-time programs.

MEDITATION INTUITIVE CONSULTANT KIMBERLY TAYLOR

Crystal Visions, Inc. 1 Rt 37 East, Ste 2, Sherman 860-210-9897 CrystalVisionsCT.com Kimberly is a psychic medium and intuitive. Readings consist of childhood experiences, present personal and professional relationship paths and future outcomes of major life decisions. Kimberly can also be a conduit for lost loved ones. See ad, page 28.

MASSAGE & BODYWORK

REDDING CENTER FOR MEDITATION 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding 203-244-3130 ReddingMeditation.org

Robin has been providing massage and Reiki for over 15 years. Specializing in Swedish, Pregnancy, Trigger Point, Injuries and Infant/Child Massage Instruction. Sessions are individualized to meet your needs. See ad, page 23.

We use advanced diagnostic testing with safe, effective, allnatural 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 13.

MARVIN P. SCHWEITZER, ND

We t e a c h a n d p r a c t i c e 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.

Wellness Institute 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203-847-2788 • DrMarvinSchweitzer.com Family Health Care using all natural therapies for 25 years. Acupuncture, Bio-Identical Hormones, Homeopathy, Chinese/Western Herbs, Allergy/Toxin Testing, Oxygen T h e r a p y, M e r i d i a n S t r e s s Assessment, Nutrition/Enzyme Therapies. See ad, page 11.

SHALVA CLINIC, LLC

Ellen M Lewis, ND, Director 8 Lincoln St, Westport 203-916-4600 • ShalvaClinic.org

MOBILE FITNESS & WELLNESS

ROBIN ORDAN, LMT, LCSW, CICMI Licensed Massage Therapist & Reiki Practitioner Old Greenwich/Stamford 203-561-8535 • RobinOrdanLMT.com

Lisa Singley, ND, MS 2103 Main St, Ste 2, Stratford 203-874-4333 Info@NHAWC.com • NHAWC.com

BRAMASOLÉ FITNESS AND WELLNESS CENTER Elizabeth D. Aleksinas 57 Slab Meadow Rd, Morris 860-567-0219 BramasoleWellness.com

Bramasolé is a unique mobile fitness and wellness unit. Can’t get to the gym or yoga studio? I come to you! Services include yoga, meditation training, Reiki, massage, Tai Chi and personal fitness. Studio hours also available. See ad, page 5.

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, page 71.

DR. MARINA YANOVER, ND, LAC 1720 Post Rd East, Ste 213, Westport 203-255-5005 BigAppleHealth.com

Naturopathic Medicine, Acupuncture, Craniosacral Therapy, Natural Face Lift using microcurrent therapy. Specialties include Family Medicine, Women’s Health, Endocrinology, Gastroenterology, Pain Management, Skin Care. Insurance accepted.

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May 2016

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN

ORGANIC MATTRESSES & BEDDING

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC

Adam Breiner, ND, Director Elena Sokolova, MD, ND David Brady, ND, CCN, DACBN 501 Kings Highway East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com Using state-of-the-art science combined with centuries-old healing modalities, our caring naturopathic doctors correct underlying imbalances and address issues which may interfere with the body’s ability to heal itself. Treatment protocols or therapies include: Abdominal Manual Therapy, Acupuncture, Allergy Desensitization, Chinese Medicine, Colonics and other Detoxification Protocols, Electro-Dermal Screening, Energy Medicine, FDA-cleared P h o t o t h e r a p y, F u n c t i o n a l Medicine, Herbal Medicine, H o m e o p a t h y, H o r m o n a l Balancing, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Metabolic Typing, Nutritional Assessment, RealTime EEG Neurofeedback and other therapies. See ad, page 2.

NUTRITIONAL COUNSELING NUTRITION RESCUE

Jessica Moon, MS 66 Glenbrook Rd, Ste 300, Stamford 203-979-6181 • Jessica@NutritionRescue.net NutritionRescue.net Facebook.com/NutritionRescueCT Jessica uses a comprehensive approach for working with individuals and families. Specializing in dietary management of food sensitivities/allergies and providing support with elimination diets, menu development, and minimizing the impact of food restrictions.

THE CLEAN BEDROOM

79 East Putnam Ave, Greenwich 203-292-9275 • 866-380-5892 TheCleanBedroom.com The Clean Bedroom is an organic and allnatural mattress and bedding resource with seven showrooms, including its new location in Greenwich. Through its showrooms and web site, eco-minded shoppers gain insight to create a healthier sleep environment. See ad, back cover.

PSYCHOTHERAPY

JILL BADYRKA, MFT & REIKI MASTER In-Home Marriage & Family Therapy For Families, Children, Couples and Individuals 203-218-0194 JBadyrkaMFT@gmail.com

In-home services inspire healing, balanced with client well-being and comfort. Specializing in trauma, parent-child relationships, divorce, life-coaching, selfempowerment and inner peace. Holistic and strength-based. Now accepting Saturday appointments for therapy and Reiki. See ad, page 15.

MARIA C. CASTILLO, MSW, LCSW 238 Monroe Tpke, Ste B, Monroe 203-445-8966 Msisi@aol.com LifeBetweenLivesTherapy.com

Past Life Regression, trained by Brian Weiss, MD. Life Between Lives Hypnotherapy, trained by TNI and Michael Newton, PhD. Traditional psychotherapy with a spiritual approach; Reiki. Connect with your soul self and let your inner wisdom guide you.

The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate. ~Oprah Winfrey

Fairfield County Edition

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CHRISTINE GUERRERA, LMFT

PsychoSpiritual Therapy & Coaching InsightsWellnessCenter.com 203-260-9353 • ChrisGuerrera@me.com Non-traditional holistic sessions to free and empower yourself on your path of healing and awakening with a blend of psycho-spiritual therapy, energetics and universal wisdom.

HARMONY OF THE MIND, BODY, & SOUL, LLC

Anasta Kydes, MA, NCC, LPC, ACSM, CPT (Licensed Psychotherapist and Certified Personal Trainer) 91 East Ave, Norwalk 203-318-4514 • AnastaKydes@yahoo.com A client centered approach is taken in a supportive, non-judgmental, empathetic, and compassionate environment. I teach coping skills to help manage life’s challenges and incorporate exercise and meditation upon your request to help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress. See ad, page 39.

ROBIN ORDAN, LCSW

Family, Child, Individual & 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 10.

DENI WEBER, MA, LPC, D-CEP

Holistic Psychotherapist Comprehensive Energy Psychology Fairfield County 203-544-6094 • DeniWeber.com Within a supportive, empathic relationship Deni guides individuals on their journey of selfdiscovery integrating psychology, Eastern medicine and spirituality to heal suffering from traumatic stress related to chronic illness, disabilities, abuse & PTSD.

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.

TURNING POINT REIKI, LLC

SHAMANIC PRACTITIONER

JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield 203-438-3050 TurningPointReiki.com TurningPointShare.com

HUNTER HEALING HANDS

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 18.

RIVER’S EDGE REIKI Lori Haggerty Usui Reiki Master Bethel • 203-994-8978 RiversEdgeReiki.com

Jessica C. Hunter 203-916-8381 HunterHealingHands@hotmail.com HunterHealingHands.com Healing sessions in shamanic healing, Melody crystal healing, reiki, shamanic intuitive readings. Accredited and certification training programs in reiki, crystal healing, and shamanic healing. See ad, page 38.

If not now, when? Inspire change on all levels - greater physical ease, emotional freedom, peace of mind and spiritual connection. 20 years intuitive healing experience with adults and children of all ages. Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tarot. See ad, page 45.

Richard Wlodarski, RMT 2505 Main St, Ste 209B, Stratford 203-605-0773 Rich@SpiritualArts.info SpritualArts.info Richard is a Reiki Master/Teacher and intuitive reader. He specializes in home and property cleansings. Come and experience the healing attributes of Reiki and discovering spiritual guidance and awareness, with over 30 years of experience.

Providing Rolfing Structural Integration to Fairfield County. We provide soft tissue manipulation and movement reeducation for postural, functional and chronic pain issues with offices in Westport and Fairfield. See ad, page 33.

WELLNESS CENTER

CODY SMOLIK, LLC

Offices in Fairfield County; Park Slope, Brooklyn, NY; Greenville, SC Cody.Smolik@gmail.com Cody-Smolik-Rolf-SI.com • 917-544-4412

7eFIT SPA

Advanced Rolf Practitioner/ Structural Integrator – align and transform the body via the fascial system. Ease pain, chronic injury, scar tissue (burns); gain resilience, flexibility, improve balance and movement. Structural Integration offers long lasting results.

NATURAL BEAUTY SPA

We specialize in today’s latest skin rejuvenation. Anti-aging and acne treatment, massage, facials, hair removal, acupuncture, lymphatic drainage, VelaShape for cellulite treatment and more. See ad, page 12.

Transformative Healing • Tarot Offices in Norwalk & Ridgefield 203-856-9566 BethLeas.com • TLCTarot.com

SPIRITUAL ARTS, LLC

Kaia Yoga Studio, Westport and Fairfield near Merritt exit 46 Sachi: 203-216-9720 Sachi@WestportRolfing.com Mikel: 203-216-9770 Mikel@WestportRolfing.com

Kure Spa rovides a place for people to rely on as part of their weekly routine to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Experience our 4-Pillars of Health for 30-days and we’ll transform your life to one of Health, Healing & Vitality! Offering Vibrosaun, massage, and an organic juice bar. See ad, page 27.

BETH LEAS

ROLFING/STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION WESTPORT ROLFING

430 Main Ave, 2nd Flr, Norwalk (Wilton Line) 203-857-1500 Kure-Spa.com

4154 Madison Ave, Trumbull 203-502-8503 Natural.BeautySpa@hotmail.com CTNaturalBeauty.com

TRANSFORMATIVE HEALING

Feeling the negative effects of a high stress life? Illness, unhappiness, exhaustion? Experience the power of Reiki and how it can restore you physically, emotionally and spiritually. Sessions for adults, children and senior citizens (geriatrics is my specialty!). Reiki training classes offered for all levels. See ad, page 40.

KURE SPA

1492 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-356-5822 7eFitSpaCT1@gmail.com 7eFitSpa.com 7eFit Spa offers a variety of aesthetic services and non-invasive techniques to support mind body wellness. Services include anti-aging and oxygen facials with aromatherapy, Torc Plus bioelectric stimulation for muscle activation and weight loss, infrared sauna, and the DietMaster weight loss program. See ad, page 7.

SALTANA CAVE

590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-969-4327 SaltanaCave.com 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 antiinflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal.

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 transformations, healing and grounding for Mind, Body and Spirit. See ad, page 15.

Fit Spa ™

A new way to looking and feeling good. eNaturalAwakenings.com

Relax while our technology

May 2016

COSMIC RHYTHMS by Alethea Hunt

oney may be on the mind this month with Mercury retrograding in Taurus until May 22. This is great energy for rethinking a financial situation or agreement and tweaking as needed; don’t hesitate to use this period to review material matters. Further augmenting this is a Taurus new moon on May 6, so be sure to set an intention for a new financial beginning. This is a mega prosperity-enhancing lunation with its contact to abundant Jupiter and powerful Pluto. It certainly wouldn’t be a bad time to get in touch with a financial advisor who specializes in socially responsible investing. If you’re not inclined to use the energy of this Moon for money matters, the earthy vibe happening in early May means it’s a great time to get out into the yard/ garden. Perhaps even look into feng shui for your landscaping to capitalize on all the available prosperity energy. A square between Jupiter in Saturn is active most of May even though it doesn’t become exact until May 26. Be watchful regarding narrow-minded points of view, while also being aware that it’s entirely possible to be doing or overdoing something that’s not beneficial for you at this time—especially regarding health. Sometimes good health isn’t about what is added to the equation, but rather what is taken away. Avoid overworking as well, as this may play a significant part in any health challenges. The Sagittarius full moon on May 21 may have us feeling ready to take over the world (in a good way) with its proximity to desire-driven Mars. However, with Mars and Mercury still retrograde, it probably isn’t the best time to actually launch. The potential exists to miss the big picture while getting overwhelmed with minutiae, or to be careless with details after a period of procrastination. Also watch out for philosophical clashes—especially with women or family—over topics like religion and politics. Avoid instigating, debating or “right-fighting” for best results. If the mood does get heated, use the energy of the Gemini Sun near Venus to politely change the topic of conversation. As Mercury turns direct less than 24 hours later, this can be a more problematic time for communication; bear this in mind before wasting any breath getting angry about something, as people may be particularly stubborn in their mindsets. Finally, Mars slips back into Scorpio on May 27 and remains there until August. It’s a good time to be bravely confronting vices and inner “demons” to conquer them, as well as for digging around in any shadowy corners in the psyche via the therapeutic process. Do be aware this vibe can also increase the likelihood of less-than-scrupulous types engaging in psychological warfare. Investigate motives if you get the sense someone may be harboring some secret animosity and don’t let anyone literally psych you out. A practitioner of Western Tropical astrology, Alethea Hunt has been practicing for more than 17 years. Connect with her at 203-917-6312, Alethea@EmpoweredDestiny.com or EmpoweredDestiny.com.

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

displayadvertiserindex 7eFit Spa 7 Acupuncture Healing CT/ Jody Eisemann 19 AcuThin Westport 13 Alba Thermal Imaging 20 Art of Control 4 Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care 35 Jill Badyrka 15 Judith Barr 39 The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center: Medical 2 The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center: Dental 2 Bramasolé Wellness 5 Brookfield Craft Center 5 Central Services 26 Chamomille Natural Foods 49 Change-Changing-Changed/ Coalition of Co-Creators 21 The Clean Bedroom 72 CLH Counseling 34 Crystal Visions 28 CT Acupuncture Center/ Ingri Boe-Wiegaard 31 CT Headache & Migraine Center 17 Detoxified Iodine 33 DoTerra/Lori Haggerty 40 Michael E. Doyle, MD/ Stamford Integrative Medicine 31 Eat Naturall 48 Embody the Sacred 10 Eyecare Associates 31 Final Journey LLC 58 Debra Gibson, ND 24 The Graduate Institute 60 Hands and Paws Reiki for All 22 Health 2 Go 27 Healthy Choice Mattress 37 Hedge Trimming by Thomas 10 Homefront Farmers 29 Housatonic Valley Waldorf School 9 Hunter Healing Hands 38 Ifloat 45 Insight Counseling/ Recovery Tours 3 The Institute of Sustainable Nutrition 52 Jiiva Yoga 47 Kairali Wellness Center 32 Kindred Spirits 23 Kure Spa 27 Anasta Kydes/Harmony of the Mind, Body & Soul 39

Beth Leas 45 LifePath Yoga & Wellness 47 Lipo-Light Westport 19 Lyall Studios 15 Deanne Mincer 45 Mind-Body Transformation 23 Mind-Body Transformation 41 Mowatt Painting & Services 53 Natural Awakenings’ Franchise Sales 55 Natural Beauty Spa 12 Natural Health & Wellness Center 13 Nature’s Temptations Healthy Food Market 50 Nature’s Way Natural Foods 49 New Milford Hospital Integrative Medicine 7 Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic 57 Olivette 50 Robin Ordan, LMT 23 Robin Ordan, LCSW 10 Organic Sleep at Sleep Etc 8 Origin Fitness 4 Prescription for Wellness/ Mary Gilbertson 9 Julie Punishill 45 PuREST Float Spa 16 Ann Reeves 15 Salon Aponte 19 Salt of the Earth Therapeutic Spa 15 Shalva Clinic/Ellen Lewis, ND 71 Victoria Shaw, PhD 9 SNO Organics 59 Soul Focus/Mela Rispoli 10 Sticks & Stones Farm 39 Hilda Swaby 45 Total Life Care Center 45 Touch of Sedona 12 TreeTech 53 Turning Point Healing Arts & Education Center 18 Unity Center for Practical Spirituality 14 University of Bridgeport Clinics 4 Wellness Institute/Marvin Schweitzer, ND 11 Westbrook Nature School 37 Westport Farmers Market 50 Westport Rolfing 33 Whole Fit Studio 47 Whole Foods 43 Worden Wellness Center 23 Xlear 51

The Center For Natural Medicine Experts in Science-Based Natural Medicine Revolutionizing Patient Care

Westport’s Premier Naturopathic Clinic Naturopathic Services Naturopathic Primary Care Acute Care Lab & Diagnostic Services Specialty Services Foundation Training Exercise Program Pelvic Floor Therapy Abnormal Pap & Escharotic Treatment Community Wellness Classes and Workshops Community Meditation Nutrition Coaching Vitality Enhancement Therapies Hydrotherapy Craniosacral Therapy Reiki Acupuncture Thai Massage Mayan Uterine Massage

Our Specialties Include and are Not Limited To Dr. Ellen Lewis Dr. Andrew Cummins Dr. Mara Davidson Cindy Weschler, APRN Tracy Pardo Beverly Lewis

• Women’s Health • Hormonal Imbalance • Abnormal Paps • Thyroid Disorders • Infertility • Insomnia • Weight Loss

• Men’s Health • Cancer Support • Lyme Disease • Anxiety and Depression • Autoimmune Disease • Ankylosing Spondylitis • Irritable Bowel Syndrome

• Pediatrics • ADD/ADHD • Eczema • Allergies • Asthma • Food Sensitivities • Chronic Fatigue

Call (203) 916-4600 to receive your complimentary 15 minute consultation with one of our providers.

Save the Date for Shalva Clinic’s Spring Open House Celebration! Friday, May 20th, 4-8pm You and your family and friends will enjoy: Healthy bites and beverages • Innovative talks and tips • Herbal medicine demos Fun and delicious recipes • Raﬄes and prizes!!!! Visit www.shalvaclinic.org/openhouse to RSVP and view the schedule of events.

We’ll see you there… don’t forget to RSVP! 8 Lincoln Street, Westport, CT 06880 • P 203.916.4600 F 203.916.4601 • Info@ShalvaClinic.org •

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Shalva Clinic, LLC May 2016

Introducing...

Three models: The Classic, The Ergo and The Luxe Starting at $1999 in Queen Made in New England 路 Fast shipping All-natural, organic materials sourced from the US Handcrafted for superior support and comfort Traditional spring feel

Across from Whole Foods 79 East Putnam Avenue Greenwich, CT 06830 Mon - Sat 10am-6pm | Sun 12pm-5pm 203.292.9275 | 866.380.5892 | thecleanbedroom.com Independently owned family business supporting local communities wherever we go. 72

Fairfield County Edition

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