2023 Natural Living Directory Natural Awakenings Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

203 TLC

203TLC is a community of accredited health and wellness providers offering a wide variety of services and products.

Founded in 1997 by Beth Leas, the TLC Tribe is Fairfield County’s largest holistic health resource - a vibrant and growing community of over 90 Members, committed to living consciously and offering healthy lifestyle opportunities. We offer high quality private sessions, products, workshops, classes and resources designed to help you live life well.

Career Coach/Hypnotist

Thea Litsios, Certified Career Coach & Hypnotist. Assisting you in creating your dream career. Learn how to use your intuition to guide you on your career path.

thealitsios.com • 203-693-1493

Energy Transformation Coach

Lauri Ingram, The Liminal Studio

Connect with your authentic self, remove what blocks you from thriving in life & deepen your spiritual life. Ordained interfaith minister & life event officiant. Bethany, CT • Lauri@LauriIngram.com LauriIngram.com • 203-435-5650

Lyme Disease Healing

Gregg Kirk, Lyme Recovery Clinic & Detox Center Heal from chronic illness through all-natural herbal treatments, intensive detox, cleanses & energy healing.

528 Post Rd, Darien Gregg.Kirk@gmail.com

203-858-9725

Yoga Studio & Wellness Center

Ingrid Prueher, Yoga For Everybody A serene yoga studio where you can experience yoga, meditation, and aerial classes in-person, online or by video-on-demand, plus other workshops & trainings.

85 Mill Plain Road, 3rd Fl, Ffld, CT 203-254-9642 • Yoga4Everybody.net Info@Yoga4Everybody.net

Energy Healing

Gail Christie, Joyful Living Reiki

Holy Fire Reiki Master. Private Reiki sessions, Reiki-infused meditations and all levels of Reiki classes. Online and in Stamford, CT and Mt Kisco, NY JoyfulLivingReiki.com

203-979-0918

Energy Healing/Meditation/Tarot

Beth Leas

25+ Years Experience

Private Sessions, Workshops, Events

In-person or by phone

bethleas.com

203-856-9566

Essential Oils

Wayne Leiss, LMT, CAO Adventures in Connection. dōTERRA Essential Oils, Symphony of the Cells™ Applications and Massage Therapy

49 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel, CT 06801 Wayne@WayneLeiss.com WayneLeiss.com • 203-994-1207

Salt Cave

Salt Cave of Darien

Salt therapy, massage, meditation, yoga & more! 555 Post Rd, Darien

Info@SaltCaveofDarien.com SaltCaveofDarien.com 203-658-7667

Get

Life Coach

Diane Nicosia, MBA, ibalanceLLC

Certified Coach & Reiki Master Teacher. Move forward toward your personal & business goals. In person or Zoom.

NicosiaDiane@gmail.com

ibalanceuthrive.com

203-858-5848

Transformation Coaching/Healing

Katie Augustyn, MA, CPC

Transformation Coach, Shamanic Practitioner, Spiritual Evolution Trainer, Energy Healer, TV Host TransformationCenterCT.com

203-820-3800

Looking for a relaxed group of professionals offering a supportive community, free networking events, many affordable marketing opportunities, and FUN?

We meet on the first Tuesday of every month at Valencia Luncheria, 164 Main St, Norwalk, CT, from 8:30 -10:00a.m.

Come the first time as Beth's guest - and if you find your time with us worthwhile, we invite you to become a TLC Member. Please RSVP to Beth Leas at: 203-856-9566 (call/text) or TLCBethLeas@gmail.com so she can reserve your place.

Trevor Cates, ND Stress Impact on Skin

Jaclyn Chasse, ND Stress and Fertility

Carol Penn, DO Aging Gracefully

Carrie Jones, MD, FAAP Stress and Your Thyroid

Jaquel Patterson, ND, IFMCP Sleep, Cortisol and Its Relation to Stress

Anna Cabeca DO, OBGYN, FACOG Stress and Libido

Arti Chandra, MD, MPH Healing Your Gut

Anne Marie Fine, ND Cracking the Beauty Code

Kela Smith, PhD, DNM Stress and Fertility

Jyl Steinbeck Women’s Health and Homeopathy

FAIRFIELD & SOUTHERN LITCHFIELD COUNTIES

Publisher Erica Mills

Editor Michelle Bense

Design & Production Kathleen Fellows

Erica Mills

Contributing Writers Nicole Miale

Sales & Marketing Shirley Bloethe

Erica Mills

Distribution Man in Motion LLC

CONTACT US

54 Danbury Rd, #354, Ridgefield, CT 06877

Phone/Fax: 203-885-4674

Erica@eNaturalAwakenings.com

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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NATIONAL TEAM

CEO Kimberly B. Whittle

National Editor Sandra Yeyati

Editor Brooke Goode

Copy Editor/Proofreader Melanie Rankin

Design & Production Gabrielle W-Perillo

National Advertising Lisa Doyle-Mitchell

CONTACT US

Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation

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Ph: 239-206-2000

NaturalAwakenings@KnoWEwell.com

© 2023 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.

Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.

We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

Whatyou are holding in your hands (or reading on your screen) is a shining example of the truly wonderful healthy living community that we are lucky to have in the Fairfield and Southern Litchfield Counties area. This year’s Natural Living Directory contains a multitude of different practitioners and businesses who have made it their mission to bring health and wellness to all who seek it.

I would like to challenge our readers that love Natural Awakenings to contact at least three of these practitioners for consultations—or even just a conversation. Say you heard about them in Natural Awakenings. They will love to hear it! I get to speak to each of them myself and they are a wonderful community of people with helpful and insightful experiences to share. They care about healing and helping people be the best they can be.

Have you heard of genomics? We can now pinpoint an individual’s health by studying their genes, helping personalize care in new, exciting ways. On page 16, take a deep dive into the ways genomics can change patient outcomes and quality of life.

The term “implant illness” has become more known in recent years, with the mysterious symptoms that many women experience after breast augmentation. While it is still being researched, there is much to be said for the positive health outcomes many women experience after removing the implants and detoxing their bodies. Learn about signs and symptoms, plus detoxification options to get well again, on page 20.

On page 25, read about Master Healer and educator Eilis Philpott, who will be teaching the high frequency energy healing modality, 13th Octave LaHoChi, in Newtown this month. Then, she will travel to Ireland (her home country) to teach the modality for the first time in that country. You may also recognize Nicole Miale, our former Publisher, who will be student-teaching with Eilis in Ireland. How exciting!

Starting on page 38, the Natural Living Directory includes Practitioner Profiles and Business Spotlights to introduce you to the people who are eager to be part of your “Wellness Dream Team”.

Don’t forget you can read all of these articles and more on our website at eNaturalAwakenings.com. Share articles with your friends and family, connect with these local wellness gurus online and stay curious about new modalities and businesses. You never know how one conversation could alter the trajectory of your health!

To your continued health and wellness,

Natural Awakenings is a network of natural lifestyle magazine publishers empowering local communities with knowledge, resources and connections to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

NATURAL LIVING DIRECTORY

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Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-434-9392. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakenings.com

Benefits of Water Immersion During Birth

Water immersion during labor is an increasingly popular birthing option for healthy women that experience a straightforward pregnancy, labor spontaneously at full term and plan to give birth in a midwifery-led care setting. The process involves immersion in a birth pool to achieve relaxation and pain relief during the first and possibly part of the second stage of labor. The mother exits the pool for the actual birth, allowing the infant to emerge outside of the water. This method is different from a water birth, during which the woman remains in the pool as the infant emerges into the water and is then brought to the surface to initiate breathing.

In a new systematic review and meta-analysis published in BMJ Open, researchers compared the interventions and outcomes of water immersion, water birth and no-water-immersion births. After reviewing 36 studies encompassing the experiences of about 150,000 women, researchers found that water immersion significantly reduced the use of epidurals, injected opioids, episiotomy, maternal pain and postpartum hemorrhage. There was also an increase in maternal satisfaction and improved odds of an intact perineum with water immersion. Water births were associated with increased odds of the tearing of the umbilical cord from the placenta, making delivery of the placenta difficult, although the absolute risk remained low (4.3 versus 1.3 per 1,000). There were no differences in any other identified neonatal outcomes.

Light Therapy for Autoimmune Symptoms

Fatigue is often reported as the most disabling symptom for people with autoimmune disorders, significantly impairing their physical, mental and social quality of life. Autoimmune researchers in Denmark, noting previous studies wherein bright light therapy significantly reduced fatigue related to traumatic brain injury and cancer, devised a study involving multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. The study was conducted as a randomized, sham-controlled trial of 26 people with MS that reported a Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) score greater than 36. Participants received either bright light therapy or a dim red light sham intervention for 30 minutes each morning for two weeks. The bright light therapy decreased FSS scores over the course of the study. However, this benefit occurred in the sham control group as well, highlighting the need for more research on the effects of light therapy on fatigue.

Ground Picture/ShutterStock.com

Fran.Vila/ShutterStock.com

Seniors Avoid the Hospital With Nature

New research has found that exposure to natural environments may reduce the risk of hospitalization for older adults with Alzheimer’s disease, related dementias and Parkinson’s disease. The cohort study included approximately 62 million Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 years or older that lived in the contiguous United States from 2000 to 2016. Researchers looked at ZIP-Code-level greenness, percentages of park cover and blue space (water) cover, as well as hospitalizations. They found that exposure to greenness, park cover and blue space cover reduced hospitalizations for patients with Parkinson’s. Greenness—but not park or blue space cover—was associated with a lower risk of hospitalization due to Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

Ashwagandha May Improve Women’s Sexual Experience

Poor sexual function affects about 40 percent of women and may worsen their quality of life. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a known adaptogenic herb that has been reported to improve sexual satisfaction, sleep and quality of life in women.

Researchers in Mumbai set out to evaluate the efficacy and safety of standardized ashwagandha root extract in improving sexual function in healthy females.

A randomized, placebo-controlled study of 80 women between the ages of 18 and 50 with hypoactive sexual desire disorder and no other hormonal imbalances were given either 300 milligrams of ashwagandha root extract twice daily or a placebo for eight weeks. Sexual function, quality of life and safety were assessed. In comparison to the control group, the ashwagandha participants experienced statistically significant improvements in sexual desire, arousal and satisfaction; improved lubrication and orgasm; and less pain.

“Highly recommended! The atmosphere was lovely. This is the place to go if you are skeptical or have any reservations about Laser for your skin! Your skin will love you for it.” Michelle

Ruslan Huzau/ShutterStock.com

Indian Food Images/ShutterStock.com

Scientists Invent Battery Made of Paper

Scientists have developed a wateractivated, disposable, paper battery, according to a proof-of-concept study published in Scientific Reports. The developers believe that their invention could be used to power a variety of low-power, single-use electronics, such as smart packaging, environmental sensors and medical diagnostic devices, thereby reducing their environmental impact.

The single-cell battery consists of one square centimeter of paper treated with salts. One side is printed with ink containing graphite flakes, which serves as the positive terminal, and the other side is printed with ink containing zinc powder to create the negative terminal. Another layer of ink containing graphite flakes and carbon black is applied over that, linking the battery’s positive and negative ends to two wires secured by wax.

When a few drops of water are added to the paper, the salts dissolve, releasing charged ions that spread across the paper to activate the battery. In tests, researchers were able to reach a stable 1.2 volts. (The voltage of a standard AA alkaline battery is 1.5 volts.) The battery’s performance decreased significantly after an hour when the paper dried. However, after two more drops of water were added, the battery maintained 0.5 volts for an additional hour.

Center for Spiritual Development, NSAC

(A Community for Healing, Mediumship and Education)

A loving, non-judgmental environment where everyone can seek and search for spiritual understanding and personal unfoldment at their own pace.

Weddings - Blessing Ceremonies - Memorials - Funerals - Admission to Fellowship Classes – Workshops – Spiritual Fairs

Metaphysics – Spiritual Mediumship - Meditations

Individual Spiritual Healings and Readings

Children’s Lyceum - Healing Services

Sunday Morning Service (Zoom and in-person)

293 Sound Beach Avenue, Old Greenwich, CT www.center4spiritualdev.org

photo courtesy of newatlas

Using Algae for Industrial Carbon Capture, Food, Fuel and Plastic

In an effort to reduce its carbon footprint, Honda is experimenting with the Chlamydomonas reinhardtii class of algae they have nicknamed “Dreamo”, which can eat twice its weight in carbon dioxide in three to five days, depending on the time of year. Developers are growing Dreamo on the roof of a car factory in Tochigi, Japan, where it can absorb CO2 emissions from manufacturing. It has been genetically modified to grow hardier and five times faster than ordinary microalgae, allowing the growth solution to last months instead of weeks.

The development team is also exploring additional uses for Dreamo. After serving its pollution-fighting role, the algae can be harvested, dried and turned into food, fuel or plastic. Depending upon the amount of nitrogen applied to the algae, its cellular composition can be modified to be either predominantly carbohydrate- or protein-based. When the algae is mostly protein, an enzyme can be added to easily extract the starch to be used as food or as a raw material in animal food, cosmetics or pharmaceuticals. When the algae is mostly carbohydrate, it can be extracted as glucose and ethanol to be converted into plastic resin or jet fuel.

Sulfur Shortage Predicted

According to a study in The Geographical Journal led by University College London, a shift away from fossil fuels and an increase in agricultural demand will cause the demand for sulfuric acid to increase considerably from 246 to 400 million metric tons by 2040. The result is an annual supply shortfall of between 100 and 320 million metric tons, or between 40 and 130 percent of the current supply. Sulfur is a byproduct of processing crude oil and natural gas. As the world decarbonizes in response to climate change, there will be a diminished supply of both fossil fuels and sulfur. Sulfuric acid is required for the manufacture of phosphorus fertilizers used in global food production and for the extraction of rare metals from ores crucial to the transition to a green economy, such as cobalt and nickel used in batteries. Unless action is taken to reduce the need for this chemical, the study authors warn, environmentally damaging mining will be required to fill the shortfall.

Leaking Urine?

Have 28 Minutes to Spare?

HyperFit MD now offers treatment with EMSELLA, the first device of its kind, FDA-cleared for treating urinary incontinence.

One treatment is comparable to

11,000 kegels!

EMSELLA provides High Intensity Focused Electromagnetic (HIFEM) technology. This helps stimulate deep pelvic floor muscles to restore neuromuscular control and muscle strength. Great for men and women of any age and highly recommended for post-partum moms!

12th Annual Health Wellness & Lifestyle Expo 2023 with special thanks to Stamford Health, Exclusive Healthcare Partner

ing; dance and fitness; healthy food trucks; healthy food, beverages and restaurants; ecofriendly wine, spirits and craft beers; and a kids zone featuring fun activities in the sand pit area on Harbor Point’s Boardwalk.

Stamford Health, the Exclusive Healthcare Partner, is always a highlight of the event, offering a variety of free and informative health screenings and services for all ages featuring many of their service lines. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn CPR with Stamford Health and Stamford EMS.

Grade A ShopRite, Support Sponsor, will offer free flu shots (most insurance accepted), express nutrition consultations with their registered dietitians, live healthy cooking demonstrations and a raffle to win a gift basket of Grade A ShopRite’s Bowl & Basket healthy foods.

The 12th Annual Health Wellness & Lifestyle Expo 2023 with special thanks to Stamford Health, Exclusive Healthcare Partner, returns September 9, from 10am to 6pm, at Harbor Point, Stamford’s beautiful waterfront community. This is Connecticut’s largest and premier health and wellness expo featuring 120 exhibitors, eight different zones, free health screenings provided by Stamford Health and other sponsors and exhibitors, free group classes situated along the stunning Harbor Point boardwalk, free admission and free parking.

The theme again this year is GO. GATHER. GROW. Let’s GO to the expo. Let’s GATHER with family and friends to experience the best in health, wellness and fitness. Let’s GROW mind, body and spirit. Parking and admission are free.

This one-day, family- and pet-friendly health and wellness extravaganza is jam-packed with an exciting variety of exhibitors showcasing and selling health and wellness products and services. A highlight of the HWL Expo is the schedule of free yoga, dance, martial arts and spirited fitness classes led by the area’s top fitness instructors. All levels and abilities are encouraged to join in the fun and preregister for classes.

The eight zones of the expo will showcase: pet wellness; yoga and stretch-

Camp Bow Wow Stamford, Support Sponsor, will be featuring their doggie day care and boarding services along with exciting giveaways at the exhibit area in the Pet Wellness Zone. Pick up a red key at one of the two Welcome Tents and visit the KeyBank, Support Sponsor, exhibitor area to see if your key opens the KeyBank Treasure Chest to win valuable prizes, and learn more about financial health.

Thank you to our sponsors, Stamford Health, Exclusive Healthcare Partner for the 12th consecutive year; Grade A ShopRite, Support Sponsor for the 12th consecutive year; KeyBank and Camp Bow Wow Stamford, Support Sponsors. Thank you to our Premier Media Sponsors, Stamford Magazine/Moffly Media and Natural Awakenings Magazine. We appreciate all Media Sponsors for the valuable support and promotion of this event; CT Kids and Family, Fairfield County Mom, HeyStamford!, Jen Danzi, Kids Out And About, Macaroni Kid, Natural Nutmeg Magazine, News 12 CT, Stamford Advocate/Greenwich Time/ Hearst Media, Stamford Moms and WEBE 108. Thank you to our Community Partners, the City of Stamford, City Carting and the Stamford Chamber of Commerce.

For the most up-to-date list of participants, event activities and offerings, visit HWL-Expos.com or follow @HWLEXPO on Facebook and Instagram. See ad, page 6.

The Process of Choosing Happiness

• Learning by a) noting the takeaways from my reflection, and b) trying to apply the new insights gained, then c) questioning what strengths I need to leverage in order to do something different.

• Action by noting a) what I want to do differently and b) cultivating the courage and support needed to trust myself, c) follow through and take small steps in the direction I choose, and d) make people a priority.

• Keeping hope, belief and connection to myself, others and nature alive so that I stay inspired and can choose to start this process again and again.

by Andrea Garin Kopilak

According to Lord Richard Layard and the Gallup World Poll, “stress has doubled in the world.” Knowing what we do about stress and the implications for our health and well-being, as a society, what other indicators do we need to make happiness and well-being a priority for ourselves, our loved ones, our communities and for the entire world? Imagine the possibilities of making happiness and well-being a priority in the world.

Several weeks ago, I left the World Happiness Summit (WorldHappinessSummit.com),  in Lake Como, Italy, with new information, new insights, new connections, wonderful memories, the image below and a sweatshirt that reads, “I choose happiness.”

On the plane ride home, I thought about what it means for me to choose happiness and wrote down some reflections.

“Happiness is a process”, according to Robert Biswas-Diener, a well-being researcher who spoke at the World Happiness Summit.

For me, choosing happiness is a process of:

• Building self-awareness through a) connecting with myself and others, and b) asking “how do I feel, and what do I need?” (credit to Carol Solomon), then c) listening to my truth.

• Practicing reflection by making the time to a) be curious about why I feel and need something, b) be curious about my actions, c) explore the possibilities of what may be underneath them and what is coming up for me, and d) asking myself if my behavior is aligned with my values and who I want to be.

This process is alive, it takes time, it gets adjusted. Sometimes, life gets in the way. Often, it is so hard to face the realizations. Most of the time, I try to keep learning and keep growing. I try to show up as the person I want to be in each situation. I try to choose this process to help me.

What does it look like for you? For me, when I choose to acknowledge and celebrate the progress I made, choosing to go through the process looks like the smiling “happy” you think of when you hear the word. Other times, it is just a deep feeling of knowing I am resilient, strong and right where I am supposed to be.

What does your process for happiness look like? One small thing we can do to make happiness and well-being a priority is to show up, try it and then try again when we are ready. Are you in?

Andrea Garin Kopilak is the founder of Connect2Flourish, LLC. She holds an MA in Educational Communications and Technology from NYU, an Advanced Certificate in Applied Positive Psychology from UPenn, extensive awareness coach training from Mentor Coach and Positive Psychology Coach training from Positive Acorn. She is currently working toward International Coaching Federation (ICF) credentialing and is an active member of the global and local organization. Connect at Connect2FlourishCoaching.com. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 50.

Natural Glutathione Precursor Strengthens Immune Defenses A Conversation with Joseph V. Cassarino

How does glutathione support immune health in the body?

There are many ways to strengthen the immune system safely and as nature intended, and one of the best ways is to maintain ample glutathione levels. People deplete glutathione as they age and speed up the process by eating processed foods and sugar, and breathing polluted air. Glutathione is considered the master antioxidant and helps reduce oxidative stress in the cell to keep cells healthiest. Strong immunity is like a shield that mitigates illness, helps with recovery and protects your body from toxic substances. With many forces working against you, it is most important to take care of your immune system.

How does this supplement work?

Dr. Crum made his groundbreaking scientific discovery over many years of laboratory research. His motivation was that he always felt that there should be a way the [human] cell could make its own glutathione exactly as nature intended. There are products out there that support glutathione production, such as NAC (N-Acetyl-Cysteine, an artificial glutathione precursor), but according to the research and scientific reports, they do not allow for optimum natural glutathione levels and immune system benefits.

Joseph V. Cassarino, founder of Best Immune Support, in Rhinebeck, New York, calls Immune Formulation 200 a scientific breakthrough that naturally reduces oxidative stress and toxins inside cells for optimal immune support. Natural Awakenings spoke with Cassarino to find out why he came out of retirement to spread the word about this immune system nutrition booster and glutathione precursor.

How did you get involved with this product?

I met the inventor of Immune Formulation 200, Dr. Albert Crum, M.D., MS, D.Sci-Hon, in Rhinebeck about four years ago and I was intrigued by the man and his professional work. Dr. Crum was intrigued by my background and business accomplishments. That’s how our professional business relationship and friendship first formed. Now that I’ve had personal experience with the product, all I want is for people to discover the benefits of glutathione; that’s the reason I’m doing this.

Dr. Crum, funded in part by $88M in grants from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), was on the cutting-edge of glutathione research. He discovered that adding a crucial set of natural nutrients could help the body manufacture optimum amounts of glutathione at the cellular level. By making the glutathione inside the cell— and only as much glutathione as the cell needs to reduce the toxins and the oxidative stress, discharging what it doesn’t need— Immune Formulation 200 is an efficient and effective glutathione supplementation.

Immune Formulation 200 is a patentpending nutrition booster and glutathione precursor that allows people to be proactive about protecting their health by reducing oxidative stress, toxins and free radicals. It helps build the immune system by reducing oxidative stress. Additionally, Immune Formulation 200 also helps maintain AIC levels in normal range.

What drives your passion for spreading the word about this product?

Mostly my own experience with it. I’m an avid practitioner of a healthy lifestyle, but I had never heard of glutathione before I met Dr. Crum four years ago. I’m 65 years old. I’m a health-oriented person. I eat, breathe and live a certain lifestyle. I exercise every day. I’m in nature every day. I drink healthful green juices in the morning, and eat salads for lunch. But even knowing all that I did and doing what I did, I did not know how important glutathione is.

I am now the head of marketing and distribution for the product and I’m finding fulfillment in using my previous experiences building successful companies on a project that can change people’s lives dramatically for the better. I came out of retirement to work on this. I should be in the Bahamas right now, but instead I am helping introduce a formula that will help more people improve overall health on levels that may seem to be too good to be true—but are true.

How are you getting the word out?

I have developed an ecommerce website that offers free shipping and put so much education concerning the product onto the website. Website visitors can find the science, the data, the links to the NIH health report that all prove the importance of what glutathione does and the science of what Dr. Crum’s discovery provides for optimal glutathione replenishment. I’m also doing a ton of outreach. Every day I’m speaking with medical groups and professionals, functional medical centers, integrative medical practitioners, nutritionists, dieticians. Every day I’m also moving awareness forward on social media.

For appointments and more information, call 845-206-8104 or email Info@TheBestImmuneSupport.com. To purchase Immune Formulation 200 and take advantage of free shipping, visit TheBestImmuneSupport.com. See ad, page 24.

WHAT CAN GENOMICS TESTING DO FOR YOU?

PATIENT-SPECIFIC DIAGNOSTICS & CARE GO MAINSTREAM

by Alicia McKelvey, MD

Personalized medicine, also known as precision medicine, has been somewhat of a holy grail in healthcare for decades. The desire to predict, diagnose and treat disease more precisely on an individualized basis has driven innovation and research into the human genome, which is defined as the complete set of nucleic acid sequences, encoded as DNA.

In 2003, there was a huge breakthrough when the Human Genome Project announced it had sequenced around 20,000 genes of the human body. This discovery has been transforming health care ever since, with genomic sequencing now more cost effective and precise than ever.

The Human Genome Project was launched in 1990, a future-looking endeavor that took 13 years and approximately $2.7 billion of federal funding to complete. The project’s goal was to map the whole structure of the human genome and sequence it. In the years since, genomic testing has been refined and has become more widely available. DNA testing for genetic genealogy purposes through companies like 23andMe and AncestryDNA was the

first application to hit the market and exploded quickly in popularity. All the while, companies like IntellxxDNA, Illumina and others were developing increasingly more accurate and cost-effective genomic testing tools for medical practitioners and individuals to use with the goal of improving and personalizing clinical outcomes.

The ability to choose to access and use genetic information is still a relatively new development in health care, but futurists believe that in the not-too-distant future, this approach will form the backbone of everyday health care delivery, improving

photo by Good Studio AdobeStock

diagnoses and patient results through more precise and earlier intervention.

Genetics vs. Genomics

Often confused, genetics and genomics are similar but distinct disciplines. Genetics is the study of heredity; genomics is the study of genes, their functions and relationships. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the primary difference is that genetics focuses on the function and composition of a single gene, where genomics incorporates all genes and their interrelationships, as well as interaction with the external environment. A genome is thus an organism’s full DNA, inclusive of all its genes. A complete human genome contains three billion base pairs of DNA, uniquely arranged to give each individual their anatomy and characteristics, including the molecular recipe for an individual’s tissues, proteins and enzymes.

Researchers in epigenetics have proven that genetics are not fixed; genes can be influenced and altered by lifestyle, nutrition, environment and other variable factors. Research indicates all humans are 99.9 percent identical on a genetic level. The crucial 0.1 percent difference is due to insertions, deletions and alterations in the DNA sequence. These variations, known as Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs), typically occur in about 1,000 base pairs in any given individual. Many diseases, including cancer, have been found to be caused by gene alterations, so it is in these SNPs

where genomic testing is proving particularly useful in identifying areas of potential or existing dysfunction.

Genomic testing is not limited to identifying rare diseases. As many as 90 percent of people are carriers of genetic conditions which may develop into problematic disease; seven to eight percent will have a genetic condition during their lifetime. Population studies have shown that approximately 17 percent of the population carries a gene mutation for which there are treatment and preventive options. That’s one in every six people.

At this time, more than 2,000 different disease genes have been identified. Cancer and cardiovascular disease are leading causes of disability and death in this country; both diseases have had extensive DNA sequencing done and can be screened for/possibly prevented if found early enough.

Common conditions addressed by genomic testing include: brain health, dementia, stress management, autoimmune conditions/chronic inflammation, food intolerances, heart health, gastrointestinal issues, Diabetes Mellitus, osteoporosis, toxin clearance and vitamin metabolism.

Genomic testing and its valuable data empower individuals to be proactive about their health in partnership with their providers. This is especially going to aid those living in a diagnostic maze with unidentifiable illness, whose symptoms don’t improve even after conventional treatment.

PATIENT CASE STUDY

Fatigue and eyesight changes

JB is a 52-year-old man, who had not been feeling well for several months. He was experiencing some fatigue and a change in his eyesight. JB was eating a very good diet, and had a physically demanding job. Genomics was used to get to the root cause of his symptoms, and found that his body had genomic variant, ATP Binding Cassette Subfamily C, that impacted his body’s ability to get rid of pesticides, heavy metals and molds. Inability to rid the body of these substances can increase the risk of brain toxicity and cognitive issues. Blood work revealed a blood mercury level nearly seven times the normal limit. JB often ate sushi for lunch and frequently ate salmon and swordfish for dinner. Both salmon and swordfish can contain heavy metals, like mercury. An herbal supplement was used for a month to gently help his body eliminate the mercury. Fish was initially removed from JB’s diet as well. Six months later, he had no detectable mercury in his system, and his symptoms had resolved.

Functional Medicine and Genomics: Getting to the Root Cause

Inability to identify the cause of disease and hyper-focus on symptom management are primary complaints people express about conventional medicine as currently practiced in the U.S. Genomic testing is a clinical decision-making tool that helps to get to the root cause of illness and takes a more preventive rather than symptomatic approach. Understanding an individual’s genomic profile provides a detailed guide for a holistic health practitioner to optimize care for a specific body and mind by looking at the very foundation of that body’s systems. The information provided through the genomic testing gives a window into an individual’s entire being at a molecular level. That data, combined with an integrative approach including lifestyle, diet, social and environmental factors, stress and other life aspects, allows a holistic practitioner an opportunity to address existing chronic condi-

tions and proactively prevent the development of potentially more serious disease.

Genomic evaluations lead to personalized health plans and evidence-based intervention strategies based on the specific patient concerns. Intervention can now be tailored and specifically address an individual’s unique set of challenges, no matter their age, race or gender. The result can be a more direct path to wellness and improved quality of life, with less guesswork and symptom management needed along the way. There may be layers of dysfunction to be addressed, so complete resolution of issues can take time, but noticeable improvement can be expected.

Genomic Testing and Reporting Process

The genomic testing process is simple and convenient, as anyone who has done their genealogy test can validate. A single saliva sample is used for the test, from a test kit

sent to a patient’s home or provided by the practitioner. The swab from the kit is used on the inside of the mouth to get the DNA sample and the specimen is then sent to the company lab doing the genetic sequencing. When the reports arrive, the clinician analyzes the results and discusses with the individual the newly revealed health risks and benefits.

The reports become the backbone for planning the personalized approach to health, wellness and better quality of life. The report data will not make conclusions or healthcare decisions for anyone. They simply examine the complex relationship between the various SNPs in the person’s system. The goal of using the data is to support the unique body through individualized nutrition, vitamins and supplements, as well as

PATIENT CASE STUDY

Cardiovascular issues, inflammation and memory decline

LD is a 65-year-old man who has lived the life of an adventurer, including climbing Mount Everest. Over the last 15 years, he has had multiple cardiac procedures for blocked heart (coronary) vessels. His wife has also noticed memory issues, worsening over the last two years. Symptoms of heart disease and cognitive decline can often be linked to the same variants.

LD had many pro-inflammatory variants that impact the health of his blood vessels, both in his heart and brain. Reducing that inflammation can arrest, and even reverse the blood vessel disease. LD also had a variant causing too much fibrin to be made. Fibrin is a protein that creates a protein net to catch platelets to make clot. This variant causes larger clots to be made, which in turn, can impact cardiac and brain health. Dietary changes and supplements were used to reduce the fibrin, the inflammation, and to support brain health. Measured after four months, there had been a noticeable impact on his cognitive health. The impact on his cardiac health is a long-term goal.

PATIENT CASE STUDY

Asthma, psoriasis, inflammation and psoriatic arthritis

KM, a 44-year-old woman, has had asthma since the age of five. She typically had to use her rescue inhaler weekly. She developed psoriasis 10 years ago and, within the last two years, began having symptoms of psoriatic arthritis. Due to a family history of cancer, she was reluctant to use the immune suppressant medications currently offered by her rheumatologist to suppress her symptoms. KM wanted to take a deeper dive to root out the causes for her asthma and psoriasis.

Her genomic evaluation showed variants that made her prone to having sensitivity to gluten (HLADQ), and “leaky gut”, also known as gut hyperpermeability. KM also had variants promoting inflammation, including Toll receptor 3, IL-6, CRP and cAMP responsive element binding protein. Removing gluten from her diet while using supplements to balance her immune system and repair her gut has resulted in marked improvement in her asthma; she has not had to use her rescue inhaler in the last five months. Over a total time of six months, her psoriatic plaques have decreased. The joint pain was the first symptom to disappear—two months after instituting the lifestyle changes and adding the supplements.

recommended lifestyle adjustments, reducing the need for pharmaceutical intervention.

This approach will be familiar to anyone who has worked with a naturopath or functional medicine physician; it is the detailed genetic roadmap to the individual body that is the innovative and exciting part of the equation.

State-of-the-art genomic technology is moving the needle in the direction of more empowered and individualized patient care. The advancements now being implemented have been the dream of many physicians and researchers for decades. There is no better time than the present to take advantage of these innovations to improve health care outcomes in chronic conditions and prevent more serious disease further down the line.

Alicia McKelvey, MD is board-certified in Integrative Medicine and is Medical Director of Medicine for Living, in Woodbury—a personalized, precision healthcare clinic using DNA technology to prevent, heal and reverse disease. For more information about genomics or to schedule an appointment for genomic testing, call 203-405-1464 or visit MedicineForLivingCT.com. See ad, page 21.

HCP

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Our professional team of holistic and natural businesses provides community outreach and education. We are committed to improving the health and wellness of body, mind, and spirit in the communities we serve.

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Elizabeth Raver, PhD

Evidential Psychic-Medium, Loving Hearts Connections™ Facilitator, American Association of Psychics, Red Barn in Durham. Online & in person sessions. Drlizmedium.com • Ravelizabeth516@gmail.com

203-400-9212

Naturopathic Physician

Dr. Nicole Klughers, ND, PharmD, MSAc Vis Wellness Center. Naturopathic Physician and Acupuncture Provider. Rocky Hill, CT & TeleMedicine Statewide • DrNicoleKlughers.com

info@DrNicoleKlughers.com • (234)2-ACU-DOC

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Rev. Bradford W. Tilden, MM, CMT, UWT Starseed Support, Universal White Time, Crystal Healing, Sound Healing • Sessions and Trainings crystalmusichealing.com • linktr.ee/bradfordtilden

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IMPLANT ILLNESS

Get Help, Detox and Feel Well Again

by Jessica Scofield-Chichester, PhD, Rev

• Joint pain. Women with implant illness may experience joint pain, stiffness or swelling.

• Rashes. Some women may develop rashes or other skin irritations after getting breast implants.

• Hair loss. Hair loss or thinning is an other common symptom of implant illness.

• Autoimmune disorders Women with breast implants may be at a higher risk of developing autoimmune disorders such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis or Sjogren’s syndrome.

How to Get Better and Heal

Breast augmentation has been one of the most popular cosmetic procedures for women over the last few decades. Women choose to get breast implants for various reasons, ranging from cosmetic enhancement to post-mastectomy breast reconstruction. However, recent studies and reports suggest that breast implants can cause a range of health issues, commonly known as “implant illness”. Implant illness is a term used to describe a range of symptoms and health problems that women with breast implants can experience. There are over 80 symptoms you could experience, including fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, rashes, hair loss, autoimmune disorders and more. Implant illness is not recognized as a formal diagnosis by the medical community, and the symptoms can be similar to those of other illnesses, making it difficult to diagnose.

Signs and Symptoms of Implant Illness

The signs and symptoms of implant illness can vary from person to person, and some women may not experience any symptoms at all. However, some of the most common symptoms reported by women with breast implants include:

• Fatigue Women with implant illness often report feeling fatigued and run down, even after getting enough sleep.

• Brain fog Brain fog refers to a feeling of confusion or forgetfulness, and it can make it difficult for women to concentrate or remember things.

If you suspect that you may be experiencing implant illness, the first step is to see a qualified healthcare professional who believes in implant illnesses. It is also essential to find a qualified and experienced doctor who believes in breast implant illness, has an experienced background in explants and who is able to perform the procedure well. There are many sites online to help find resources for explant doctors. While there is limited scientific research on this topic, anecdotal evidence suggests that many women experience significant relief from their symptoms after explant surgery. According to a survey conducted by the Breast Implant Victim Advocacy (BIVA) group, which included responses from over 2,000 women who had undergone explant surgery, 85 percent of the respondents reported that their health had improved after having their implants removed.

Detoxification and Lifestyle Upgrades

A good doctor may recommend a full detoxification program that includes dietary

changes, supplements and other therapies. Finding a wellness center that specializes in helping women detoxify their bodies and improve their overall health and well-being is at the core of health, longevity and transformation. Some therapies include:

Infrared Sauna Therapy: Infrared sauna therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses heat to help the body detoxify. This therapy can help improve circulation, reduce inflammation and promote relaxation.

BEMER Therapy: BEMER therapy has five world patents and uses specialized pulsed electromagnetic fields to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. This therapy can help improve circulation, reduce pain and inflammation and promote overall health and well-being.

Ionic Foot Detox: Ionic foot detox is a gentle and non-invasive therapy that helps the body eliminate toxins through the feet. This therapy can help reduce inflammation, improve circulation and promote overall health.

Lymphatic Drainage Therapy: Lymphatic drainage therapy is a gentle massage technique that helps improve lymphatic flow and remove toxins from the body. This therapy can help reduce inflammation, improve circulation and promote overall health.

Nutritional Counseling: Nutritional counseling is an essential part of any detoxification program. A professional can help you develop a healthy eating plan that supports your body’s natural detoxification processes.

These various devices work together to help balance out the different systems in the body. For example, the infrared sauna and BEMER therapy can help improve circulation and reduce inflammation, which can help promote overall health and well-being. The ionic foot detox and lymphatic drainage therapy can help the body eliminate toxins and improve lymphatic flow, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Additionally, nutritional counseling can help you make healthier food choices and provide your body with the nutrients it needs to support its natural detoxification processes.

By combining these services, it can provide a comprehensive and personalized approach to anti-aging and healing, as well as detoxification from implant illness. Scope out expert facilities in your area.

Jessica Scofield-Chichester, PhD, Rev is the co-founder and CEO of Haute Healing Oasis, in Stamford. She is a double implant survivor and has extensive experience in helping women heal from implant illness and improve their overall health and well-being. She has been in the health, wellness and spiritual science field for over 25 years, is a Hall of Fame athlete, and has been a kundalini, yoga and intuitive health and fitness coach for over 20 years. For more information about detoxification services that can help with implant illness, connect at 203-595-5304, Info@HauteSauna.com and HauteHealingOasis.com. See ad, page 17.

SOLVING STRESS HOLISTIC TIPS FROM LIFESTYLE DOCTORS

by Linda Sechrist

Medicine is changing as a new class of doctors endeavors to treat the whole person rather than the symptoms of disease, helping their patients achieve optimal health with lifestyle changes, medicine, herbs, supplements and modalities tailored to the individual. No longer reaching for a prescription pad as often, these functional and integrative physicians are spending an average of 45 minutes per office visit. Using their sleuthing skills and innovative skillsets, they ask probing questions about a patient’s current lifestyle and history, pinpoint the root cause of a problem and craft customized solutions.

To help someone manage stress, a functional or integrative doctor may suggest a daily dose of herbal tea, nightly entries in a gratitude journal, a visualization practice, brisk walks, gardening, art therapy, mindful meditation, a nutrient-rich diet that reduces food allergies, yoga poses and regular sessions of qigong or tai chi.

Armed with an extensive list of better-foryou choices than addictive, prescription sleeping pills or tranquilizers, individuals are empowered to improve their health and eliminate stress. Studies suggest that 75 to 90 percent of illnesses are stress related. Getting to the root cause before it escalates into cardiovascular disease, depression or diabetes is what curious and compassionate doctors do.

“Because sleep is a great resolution to almost anything, it’s one of the first things I consider,” says Carrie Jones, a functional and naturopathic doctor in Portland, Oregon. “Stress can be physiological, caused by parasites, viruses, bacteria and toxins, as well as blood sugar imbalances. Not getting enough sleep, or poor sleep, is stressful to the body, which is on alert all the time.”

According to Jones, finding ways to coax the body into feeling safe can help people relieve stress and get a good night’s sleep. “People rarely realize that basic things such as joy, play, laughter and a community of supportive people have anything to do with feeling safe enough to sleep deeply. It’s why I inquire about those things,” she explains.

Tips for Sounder Slumber

n Turn the thermostat down in the bedroom. A cool temperature combats insomnia.

n Snuggle under a weighted blanket. The gentle pressure signals the autonomic nervous system to go into rest mode.

n Install blackout shades. Light decreases melatonin, the sleep hormone.

n Avoid alcohol before bed, as it can disrupt the sleep cycle.

n Stop using electronics, including social media, television and phones, two hours before getting under the covers. The blue light emitted by screens restrains the production of melatonin.

Connecting and spending quality social time with friends helps to alleviate stress. Anna Cabeca, a triple board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist, advises, “Every day, stress causes the stress hormone cortisol to go up and oxytocin, the connecting hormone, to go down, lessening the desire to connect. It’s a double whammy for women in perimenopause and menopause, because hormones are declining, and stress overloads the already overtaxed endocrine system.”

Rebecca Hunton, personalized medicine doctor and founder of Radiantly Healthy MD, in Melbourne, Florida, coaches her patients to modify unhelpful habits. “I’m always looking for that one thing that patients can easily change. Sometimes it’s teaching them the difference between stress resilience and stress avoidance. A stress avoidance activity is spending two hours playing a game on your phone that leaves you beating yourself up and feeling like, ‘Why did I waste all that time?’ If, on the other hand, an activity leaves you feeling energized and wanting to tackle the other things on your to-do list, you just did a stress resilience activity,” says Hunton.

Stress Resilience Activities

n Meditation

n Prayer

n Chanting a mantra

n Expressing creativity, such as cooking or painting

Carol Penn is a dual board-certified physician and movement coach in New Jersey. While observing her 87-year-old father practicing qigong, a form of meditation in motion, she had an epiphany and saw a powerful life lesson occurring before her eyes. “Moving with strength and grace through his practice so close to the end of his life, it occurred to me that he was role-modeling what it would be like for me to be kind to my future self. I teach my patients from this perspective, visualizing their future selves full of health, vitality, wonder and awe,” says the author of Meditation in a Time of Madness.

Qigong has psychological and physical components, regulating the mind, body movement, breath and posture. “It balances and calms the autonomic, sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems so that you feel less stress upon completion of the practice. Movements are designed to build longevity on a cellular level,” Penn explains.

According to Lorraine Maita, a boardcertified functional and integrative doctor

in New Jersey, “The body sends out hormonal fight-or-flight signals when it’s distressed. In the initial stages, there’s a release of adrenaline, followed by cortisol, keeping your body on high alert. To most people, stress is just worry, and they’re thinking they’re handling it, but stress can be like a viral program running in the background all the time. It’s still there whether you’re reacting to it or not, whether you’re stuffing it under the surface or not. It’s why you go to therapy with mental stress, or why you need someone to talk to for processing it.”

Maita is a proponent of alternative modalities that help people modulate the stress response. “I recommend HeartMath to my patients, which is selfregulation technology based on more than 32 years of scientific research on the psychophysiology of stress, resilience and the interactions between the heart and brain,” says the author of Vibrance for Life: How to Live Younger and Healthier.

Jaquel Patterson, a naturopathic physician and medical director of Fairfield Family Health, in Connecticut, might determine if her patient is suffering from chronic stress by testing their saliva for cortisol levels in the morning and evening. Noting that her favorite teas for sleep and relaxation are chamomile and passionflower, she explains that passionflower is for someone that can’t fall asleep because there’s a radio playing in

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their head. “For dealing with stress, I like adaptogens, such as Siberian ginseng, rhodiola rosea, ashwagandha, holy basil and L-theanine. The stress response requires a lot of B vitamins, along with magnesium and vitamin C,” she says.

Citing Hal Elrod’s book The Miracle Morning, Patterson recommends starting every day with a set of stress-relieving rituals Elrod calls “Life S.A.V.E.R.S.” She explains, “S is for silence, like meditation. A is for affirmations. V is for visualization, so you can visualize how your day is going to be. E is for exercise. R is for reading, and S is for scribing, writing things in a journal.”

Pointing out the differences between stress and anxiety, Patterson notes that anxiety is a continual rumination of thoughts, second-guessing and overthinking. Anxiety can cause stress, but stress can occur without anxiety. People with high anxiety sometimes have heart palpitations. Some stress is good for us. Without any stressors, Patterson cautions, we are unmotivated, lethargic and lacking in enthusiasm.

Technological Solutions to Quiet the Anxious Mind

n Reflect Orb: This handheld biofeedback device can help an individual self-monitor their body’s physiology and learn to control the involuntary body-mind connection.

n Meditation apps: Insight Timer, Calm and similar apps offer guided meditations, relaxing music videos and meditation instruction for newbies and experienced practitioners.

n YouTube videos: Look for musical compositions with energy frequencies and binaural beats that encourage relaxation, promote positivity and decrease anxiety.

Linda Sechrist has been a contributing writer to Natural Awakenings publications for almost 20 years.

community spotlight

RAISING THE FREQUENCY

13th Octave LaHoChi in Newtown and Ireland

by Nicole Miale

Master Healer and educator

Eilis Philpott, of Soul Healing Journey in Fairfield, is one of only two teachers approved by Linda Dillon and the Council of Love to teach 13th Octave LaHoChi, a high frequency energy healing modality. Philpott has been teaching it in Connecticut and other U.S. states since 2017 and has two practitioner workshops scheduled for later this spring. The first will be at Sticks and Stones in Newtown, from May 19 to 21. The second training will be in Malahide, County Dublin, Ireland, from June 23 to 25—the first time the healing modality will be taught in that country.

Philpott is originally from Ireland and is thrilled to be going back home to teach. “I’ve always wanted to bring this energy to Ireland,” she says, “and I’m so happy to be going home in June to teach more interested participants.”

In fall 2022, she taught three practitioners from Ireland online and one of those, Jonathan Finn, is now the first certified 13th Octave LaHoChi practitioner in the country. Finn, a clinical and spiritual hypnotist, says he has found working with the modality to be powerful for himself as well as his clients. “People have been having great results,” he says. “The experiences vary; it’s really different for every person and that’s the beauty of this modality.”

Since all matter, including human beings, is made of energy, we are in constant resonance or dissonance with the world, people and objects around us. When in harmony, we are vibrating in alignment and coherence. When distressed, in pain, under pressure or confused, we are in disharmony and out of alignment. Understanding this basic scientific premise creates infinite healing possibilities for anyone open to receiving vibrational energy for their highest good.

Many energetic healing modalities have been discovered (or “downloaded”) and passed down over centuries. Each energy modality is unique in its origin, teachings and precise protocols, but the overall intention and effect is the same: the practitioner uses light touch and hand placement to channel healing energy from the Universe into the receiver. Every modality has a unique frequency or vibration, but in all cases the energy flows where the individual’s body, mind and spirit most need it—meaning the practitioner does not influence the direction or delivery of the energy, but is rather a neutral conduit, a human PVC pipe, if you will.

The energy has various positive effects on the individual, depending on the issue(s) or body parts most in need. Energy healing can ease mental and emotional distress (anxiety, depression, overwhelm), heal or improve chronic and acute physical problems of all kinds and support the achievement of spiritual focus and healing, among many other potential benefits.

Philpott says 13th Octave LaHoChi is a quantum healing modality that calls in a very high frequency of light energy and infuses individuals with wholeness, balance and well-being. The “La” in LaHoChi refers to the Light, Love and Wisdom coming from the Christ frequency or higher. The “Ho” means the movement of this energy and the “Chi” refers to universal life force. As such, LaHoChi energy can be summarized as “healing light of the highest frequencies, filled with life force, moving with the combined intentions of spiritual and human beings to wherever it needs to go.”

13th Octave LaHoChi works with the cells of the body to facilitate release of trapped emotion and energy caused by physical or emotional trauma. 13th Octave LaHoChi is spiritual in nature but is non-denominational and available to all, regardless of religious faith or personal situation/belief system. It is not required to believe any dogma in order for the energy to have an impact.

Individuals who attend the workshop or choose to receive 13th Octave LaHoChi energy in a session may experience a wide range of effects. Philpott says this is the beauty of the intelligent frequency being delivered. “Everyone has a different reaction because they need something specific,” she explains. “Everyone receives exactly the piece that is needed to accomplish their mission. This energy is now being made available to assist individual people in achieving their soul missions on the planet.”

To register for one of the upcoming workshops or for more information about 13th Octave LaHoChi, call 203-767-5954, email Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com or visit SoulHealingJourney.com. See ad, page 33.

Nicole Miale is a writer, healer and coach from Washington Depot, Connecticut. She is a certified 13th Octave LaHoChi practitioner and is thrilled to be student-teaching with Eilis Philpott in Ireland in June.

Photo by By primipil on Adobe Stock

Taking Control of Our Hormones

NUTRITIONAL TIPS TO SUPPORT THE DELICATE BALANCE

by Sheila Julson

Think of hormones as the body’s messengers, sending signals that affect a host of functions. Produced by the pancreas, thyroid and other endocrine glands and organs, hormones drive our metabolism, impact mood, regulate blood pressure, manage our sleep cycles, influence sexual function and more. Key players are insulin, cortisol, thyroid and growth hormones, adrenaline, estrogen, progesterone and testosterone.

Keeping these hormones in proper balance is critical for health, and imbalances can lead to a wide range of effects, including diabetes, thyroid disease, unintended weight fluctuations, skin problems, fatigue, mood swings and infertility. While inactivity, stress, age and genetics impact hormone production, our food choices can significantly tip the scales.

Dr. Ann Lee is a naturopathic doctor and licensed acupuncturist based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. When treating hormonal, thyroid and adrenal imbalances, she says it is important to focus on foods that provide the minerals and vitamins that support those systems. For women of all ages, she recommends blueberries, asparagus, lettuce, celery and papaya. Teens and women in their 20s can also benefit from apples, bananas, mangoes, avocados, cauliflower, broccoli, cucumbers, sweet potatoes and most lettuce varieties. The nutrients in these vegetables and fruits become even more important as women reach 30 and for those dealing with menopause, so Lee recommends more frequent consumption of these fresh, whole foods to support the adrenal and thyroid glands.

According to Lee, it is equally important to avoid foods that interfere with hormonal nutrition. She advises women over 50 to lower their caffeine intake. Dairy products contain naturally occurring hormones that can impede human hormone balance and should be eaten in moderation. “ The less external hormonal exposure you have, the easier it is for your own hormones to balance,” Lee explains.

Despite the popularity of intermittent fasting, Lee believes that the trendy eating pattern can deny the body the vitamins and minerals it needs, causing it to produce more adrenalin and cortisol to make up for the loss. “People do intermittent fasting because it might feel good to have more adrenalin, and thus more energy, but it does come at a price—your hormones,” she says.

Most of the foods Lee recommends are low in calories. “In order to curb hunger, you have to eat them regularly, and that goes against intermittent fasting. People that do intermittent fasting often focus on

proteins and fats, so they don’t have to eat for a long time, but that can cause adrenal burnout because the body is not getting what it needs,” she explains, noting that avocados and potatoes tend to help people feel full longer.

Jaclyn Downs is a functional nutrigenomics practitioner in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and author of Enhancing Fertility Through Functional Medicine: Using Nutrigenomics to Solve ‘Unexplained’ Infertility. She notes that for hormones to be produced by the body, nutritional cofactors or “helper nutrients” are required. “Magnesium, zinc and B vitamins are a few of the spark plugs that move these processes and keep the wheels spinning,” she emphasizes. “Grass-fed beef liver or capsules contain all of these.”

According to Downs, menstrual problems can be an indicator of eventual fertility issues. To support female reproductive hormones, she recommends cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, broccoli sprouts, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts. These foods also support liver detoxification pathways due to their high concentrations of vitamins and sulfur. “ The liver helps clear used or ‘dirty’ hormones,” she notes. Downs also recommends pomegranates, which are rich in antioxidants and fight inflammation-producing free radicals. Healthy fats from cold-water, wild-caught fish support pregnant women and growing fetuses. “Folate is often emphasized as a nutrient for pregnant women, but choline is just as important for everybody, regardless of life stage or gender,” Downs notes. Choline is found in egg yolks, sunflower lecithin and shiitake mushrooms. For 50-plus women, Downs prescribes fish or high-quality fish oil, which can benefit brain, liver and hormonal health.

KALE AND TEMPEH TACOS

In this yummy, low-carb taco recipe, cabbage leaves substitute for the tortillas and are filled with a mixture of proteinpacked tempeh, veggies and lots of great spices. Compounds in tempeh called isoflavones serve as a natural remedy for menopausal relief.

YIELD: 2 SERVINGS

1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

1 small onion, chopped

2 garlic cloves, chopped

4 oz tempeh, cubed

½ tsp sea salt or more, to taste

½ tsp black pepper or more, to taste

½ tsp ground cumin

½ tsp chili powder

¼ tsp paprika

¼ tsp cayenne

¼ cup vegetable broth

2 cups stemmed and chopped fresh kale

4 to 6 large, green cabbage leaves, dipped for 30 seconds into hot water to soften

½ avocado, sliced

1 radish, sliced

¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro

½ lime, cut into wedges

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion, garlic and tempeh and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Add the salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, paprika and cayenne, stir, then add the

broth and kale. Stir again to combine and cook until the broth thickens and reduces by at least one-half. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.

Spread the cabbage leaves open on a large plate. Spoon the kale mixture into the center of the leaves. Add some of the avocado, radish slices and cilantro, then fold in the sides like a taco.

Serve with lime wedges.

Adapted from MenuPause. Copyright © 2022 by Dr. Anna Cabeca. Used by permission of Rodale Books, an imprint of Random House, a division of Penguin Random House LLC, New York. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.

Sheila Julson is a freelance writer and contributor to Natural Awakenings.

While inactivity, stress, age and genetics impact hormone production, our food choices can significantly tip the scales.

cabe/Courtesy of Random House

Skin Fitness

DAILY ROUTINES FOR A RADIANT APPEARANCE

by David J. Sautter

While many of us work out to tone our muscles, we may be neglecting the largest organ in the body: our skin. Every day, it is exposed to a variety of irritants, including ultraviolet rays, air pollution, extreme weather and highly processed foods. Stress can also cause skin irritations and conditions. To serve its important functions and look healthy, our skin needs a fitness regimen. With a few daily routines, lifestyle modifications and coping strategies, a radiant appearance is within reach.

Skin Conditions Exacerbated by Stress

ACNE: When we are stressed, our body releases cortisol, a hormone that stimulates the production of pore-clogging oils, which can lead to the formation of acne. Stress also triggers inflammation, which can worsen existing acne.

PREMATURE AGING: Stress can accelerate the aging process by reducing the skin’s elasticity and causing wrinkles and fine lines. It triggers the production of free radicals, precipitating damage to collagen and elastin fibers, which are responsible for keeping the skin firm and supple. When they are damaged, the skin becomes saggy.

CHRONIC CONDITIONS: Stress can trigger or worsen skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and rosacea, which are characterized by inflammation, dryness and itching.

Lifestyle Tips to Improve Skin Health

GET ENOUGH SLEEP. A good night’s sleep is essential for skin health. It also helps reduce the impact of daily stress. Aim for no less than seven hours of shut-eye each night.

EXERCISE REGULARLY. Getting our bodies moving is essen-

tial to reduce stress levels and improve skin health by increasing blood flow, nutrient delivery and oxygenation to the skin.

EAT A HEALTHY DIET. “An anti-inflammatory diet full of fruits, veggies and healthy fats like those from seeds and nuts will help to keep skin healthy,” says Jennifer Scheinman, a registered dietitian and nutrition coach. “Foods rich in omega-3 fats like salmon and walnuts are great for skin health since they have natural anti-inflammatory properties, and the fats help to keep skin moisturized.”

PRACTICE STRESS-RELIEVING TECHNIQUES. Engage in activities that help manage stress, such as yoga, meditation or deep-breathing exercises.

APPLY SKIN-CARE PRODUCTS DESIGNED FOR THE PERSON’S SKIN TYPE. According to Dr. Trevor Cates, author of Clean Skin From Within and Natural Beauty Reset, “The most important care tip is to find skin care with mild acidity [4.5 to 5.4 pH] and natural actives [plant-based extracts] that support the skin microbiome. A healthy skin microbiome means less chance for breakouts, blemishes and premature aging.”

According to Dr. Anne Marie Fine, author of Cracking the Beauty Code, “Air pollution has been demonstrated to prematurely age the skin and cause age spots. This is why you want to make sure to consume antioxidants and use antioxidant-containing, clean skin-care products.”

Therapies to Enhance the Skin

RED-LIGHT THERAPY DEVICES use infrared light to stimulate collagen production, improve circulation and promote healing. This reduces wrinkles, fine lines, age spots and other signs of aging.

MICROCURRENT FACIAL TOOLS use low-level electrical currents to stimulate facial muscles, helping to tone, reduce puffiness and promote a youthful appearance.

LASERS DESIGNED FOR HOME USE offer a safe way to treat various skin issues such as wrinkles, acne scars, sun damage and pigmentation problems. They can also help even out skin tone by stimulating collagen production in the deeper layers of the skin.

GUA SHA is an ancient Chinese technique that involves gently scraping the surface of the skin with a special tool to increase blood flow, promote healing and reduce puffiness and inflammation.

OXYGEN TREATMENTS infused into pores using a special device can help nourish skin cells, decrease inflammation, reduce wrinkles and improve overall complexion.

FACIAL ACUPUNCTURE involves inserting tiny needles into specific points to stimulate energy flow, which may improve circulation, reduce tension and promote smoother skin.

FACIAL MASSAGE reduces wrinkles by stimulating collagen production in the deeper layers of the skin. It promotes circulation, drainage and toning.

David J. Sautter is a certified personal trainer specializing in fitness nutrition and sports conditioning, as well as a professional fitness writer. Learn more at WriteFit.com.

GARDENING THERAPY HEALING

MIND, BODY AND SPIRIT IN

THE YARD

by Sheryl DeVore

Gardening outdoors adds color and texture to yards and neighborhoods and, with the right plants, attracts pollinators, whose numbers are declining. It also can improve human health. The exercise, sunshine and fresh air promote mental and physical health, and so does our contact with soil microbes and the harmonious patterns of nature.

“Being in the sunlight is a great way to get vitamin D, which is linked to mood and well-being. We spend so much time inside, where our perspective and thoughts can close around us. Getting outdoors can improve mindfulness and the sense of being in the moment, especially when we leave our phones inside,” says Pennsylvaniabased psychologist Seth J. Gillihan, author of Mindful Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: A Simple Path to Healing, Hope and Peace.

In a study of the health and well-being benefits of allotment gardening published in the Journal of Public Health, researchers measured the mood, self-esteem and general health markers of people given plots for gardening versus those that didn’t garden at all. The scientists found that the gardeners displayed significantly better self-esteem and experienced less depression and fatigue. The top three reasons participants gave for enjoying their time tinkering in the soil were: being outdoors and having contact with nature (70 percent); feeling a sense of achievement (50 percent); and having the opportunity for restoration and stress relief (35 percent).

Cultivating our outdoor space also gives us a healthy perspective, helping us to accept our limitations and better understand our place in nature. “It’s easy to see in the garden how many things are outside of our control, such as rain, temperature and pests. We can do our best, but at some point, we need to let go,” Gillihan notes, adding that learning to let go is a lesson we can apply to other aspects of our lives.

When he faced a long-term illness coupled with depression, Gillihan built raised garden beds and planted herbs and vegetables. “I knew I needed to get more involved in something that would bring me a sense of reward and engagement. All of that creative effort really helped to bring me back to life,” he recalls. “In a garden, you’re exercising, but it’s not a repetitive thing like running, so that can make it more fun and seem like less of a task.”

“Digging, walking, carrying and squatting circulate our blood and release dopamine and endorphins in our brains,” says Karen Hugg, author of Leaf Your Troubles Behind: How to Destress and Grow Happiness Through Plants. “We feel

HollyHarryAdobeStock.com

more energetic and happier. Similarly, puttering in the garden or designing an ornamental bed is really about playing, and playing is integral to mental health.”

By merely observing greenery we can find peace and clarity. “A tree’s subdividing branches or the whorled arrangement of leaves are patterns that can calm the nervous system. If you look at plants during even a five-minute break, either indoors or out, you’re practicing a kind of relaxation therapy,” Hugg affirms.

A little bit of earth under our fingernails is good for us. “When you get your hands dirty, there are beneficial microbes in the soil that improve your health and well-being,” says Charlie Hall, professor of horticultural studies and department chair at Texas A&M University, who has researched the physiological, psychological and social benefits of plants.

According to Hall, horticultural therapy reduces stress and anxiety, enhances memory and attention span and can improve quality of life for those with physical, mental or cognitive challenges. Citing the example of disabled adults helping to run a garden center and greenhouse at the Brookwood Community in Brookshire, Texas, he notes, “Working together in a garden builds a sense of belonging. Even those who are not physically able to participate in those activities benefit. Just being in the garden can dramatically reduce the levels of the stress hormone cortisol.”

Gardening Tips to Improve Human and Planetary Health

n Choose a modest space outdoors or purchase small containers.

n Keep it simple and start small with just a few plants.

n Read books to learn about plant needs by region.

n Talk to nurseries that sell native species.

n Think of the garden as a refuge, a place to smell flowers and watch plants thrive.

n View gardening as a fun exercise.

n Join a community garden to cultivate flowers and vegetables in a social setting.

n Grow houseplants, herbs and lettuces to bring in the outdoors.

n Volunteer at a nonprofit that propagates vegetables for food pantries.

Sheryl DeVore is a frequent contributor to national and regional publications and has authored six books on science, health and nature. Learn more at SherylDeVore.wordpress.com.

Alexander Raths/AdobeStock.com

Microplastic Overload

REDUCING CHILDHOOD EXPOSURE

by Madiha Saeed, M.D.

Exposure to plastics, microplastics and nanoplastics is a lifelong inevitability. Researchers are investigating the human health impacts of these synthetic materials, and while we have a growing picture of potential risks, additional scientific exploration is needed to know how petroleumbased polymers affect kids. Though it is impossible to hide from plastics, much can be done to limit children’s exposure.

Global plastic production was estimated to be about 430 million tons in 2021, and humans are continually finding new ways to use it because of its light weight, extreme temperature resistance and low cost. Although plastic takes hundreds of years to fully biodegrade, it breaks down into smaller components that find their way into the ground, air, water, food, clothing, wildlife and our bodies. Microplastics are smaller than five millimeters, while nanoplastics measure from one to 1,000 nanometers. Regardless of size, plastics are packed with toxic compounds, including phthalates, bisphenol A (BPA), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, pesticides, heavy metals and polychlorinated biphenyls.

Studies have shown that microplastics are found in human tissue, including the lungs, placenta and blood. According to research published in Environmental Science & Technology, children consume and inhale an estimated 74,000 to 81,000 particles of microplastics annually. Those amounts could be higher for those that drink more water from plastic bottles than from the tap. Nano and microplastics (NMPs) build up in the body. Another study published in Environmental Science & Technology reported that by age 18, children accumulate an average of 8,300 particles of microplastics in their tissues, and by age 70 that accumulation grows to 50,100 particles.

A small, but increasing, amount of research links plastic exposure to human health conditions. A review of data to date published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences found evidence that exposure to NMPs affects both the digestive and nervous systems. The review identified microbiota alterations, intestinal barrier permeability (leaky gut), oxidative stress, inflammation, neurotoxicity and behavioral disturbances. While toxicological research on NMPs has not specifically focused on child health, kids’ immature defense mechanisms make them particularly vulnerable.

“Microplastics are a big problem for fertility,” asserts Jaclyn Smeaton, a licensed naturopathic physician specializing in fertility. The chemicals found in NMPs pose a threat to children’s future reproductive abilities.

Phthalates are chemicals used to make plastics more durable and can be found in

flooring, lubricating oils and personal-care products. According to Yvonne Karney, a gynecologist and CEO of Vitality Renewal, “Phthalates are hormone disruptors that mimic estrogen. They off-gas chemicals that damage the cell membrane and mitochondria.” Studies have linked this chemical to reduced egg quality, less reproductive success and increased gynecological diseases in women; and lower sperm count, lower testosterone, reduced sperm quality and increased DNA damage in men.

Children have higher levels of exposure and are more vulnerable to phthalates. Research conducted by scientists from Columbia University, University of North Carolina and Harvard University found that phthalates increase children’s risks for learning, attention and behavioral disorders. Another study linked prenatal phthalate exposure to lower IQ and problems with attention, hyperactivity and poor social communication in children. “This is all so new that we are just starting to learn about the effects of microplastics,” Karney remarks.

Limiting Microplastic Exposure

“The first tip is avoidance,” Smeaton says. Eliminate harmful plastics, in particular those labeled with the recycling codes 3 (phthalates), 6 (styrene) and 7 (bisphenols). To protect children, soft vinyl toys, old plastic toys and teething rings should be shunned

“Wear cotton or wool,” recommends Karney. “Air dry synthetic clothes to limit microplastic release. Laundry balls can keep microfibers from breaking off.”

“I can’t overemphasize the importance of ensuring children are eating clean food and drinking clean water,” states Smeaton. In 2020, researchers found microplastics in fruit and vegetables, with highest levels of microplastics in carrots and apples.

“Eating organic can also help, though when contaminants are in soil or water, they can affect even organic produce,” warns Smeaton. “Limit the consumption of shellfish, rice, tea made using a tea bag, table salt and premade meals. Avoid cans and takeaway cups as these are lined with plastic to protect the food. Even if a container states BPA-free, it may still contain BPA’s cousin, bisphenol S.”

“Employing a water filter is great to remove contaminants, which exist both in city and well water. Reverse osmosis is best, but anything is better than nothing,” says Karney. Look for plastic-free alternatives for cooking and storing food like glass, steel, ceramic and bamboo. Karney also recommends never microwaving foods in plastic, limiting use of bottled water and dusting and vacuuming regularly to remove settled microplastics.

“Avoid exposing children to NMPs in personal-care products,” says Smeaton. She recommends choosing those that meet the standards of the Environmental Working Group (ewg.org/skindeep).

“Pick your battles; focus on what you can control,” Karney advises. “Find things that will not disrupt our life that are doable. It’s not that hard to get a filter for tap water; it is not that hard to get glassware for storing your food.”

Madiha Saeed is a holistic, functional and integrative doctor in Naperville, Illinois, and director of education for Documenting Hope and KnoWEwell.

be your light! be your light !

When you are being your light you:

• Live Your Soul's Purpose

• Attain Deep Peace

• Have Balance Around Giving and Receiving

• Have Loving, SupportiveRelationships

• Have the Career that Sings to Your Soul with Dr. Eilis Philpott

Bringing the Bounce Back

INTEGRATIVE TREATMENTS FOR PETS WITH MOBILITY ISSUES

by Ruth Roberts, DVM

All pet owners want to see their animals live long, healthy lives filled with activity, but sometimes our furry friends find it difficult to move comfortably due to aging, injuries and other ailments. While vets often suggest surgery for certain debilitating conditions, less invasive treatments might be just as effective with considerably less risk, particularly for animals that cannot tolerate anesthesia.

For example, a 2013 University of Minnesota study focused on large-breed, overweight dogs with torn knee ligaments. Half of the dogs were treated with medical management consisting of weight loss, pain medication and physical therapy, and the other half received surgery to repair the torn ligament, followed by the same medi-

cal management. After a year, 75 percent of the dogs treated with surgery and medical management were considered treatment successes, based on leg function, quality of life and gait analysis. Surprisingly, 63.6 percent of the dogs that did not have surgery and received only medical management were also deemed successful cases. Before considering surgery or other invasive treatments, integrative pet mobility and rehabilitation (IPMR) might be a good way to help a pet regain its vitality without going under the knife. It is a holistic approach to helping pets recover from injuries, manage pain and improve mobility that combines various techniques to provide a comprehensive and personalized plan for each pet.

“It is all about educating pet parents and preserving the best quality of life for my patients,” says Dr. Joyce Gerardi, of Synergy Integrative Veterinary Clinic. “Over time, my special interests have grown to include platelet-rich plasma, bone marrow aspirate, adipose-derived and allogeneic amniotic stem cell therapies, acupuncture, food therapy, cold laser, herbal medicine, tuina massage, ozone and physical rehabilitation services.”

Here is a look at a few such modalities.

LASER THERAPY uses light energy to stimulate tissue repair and reduce pain. The procedure involves the application of laser light to the damaged area using a handheld device. The severity of the ailment and the location being treated determines the

length and frequency of treatments. The patient will feel a gentle, warm sensation as the laser technician or veterinarian moves the device over the affected area. Pets usually relax and take pleasure in the calming warmth of laser therapy, which is painless.

PHYSICAL THERAPY is an essential component of IPMR. It involves exercises and stretches that help pets regain strength and flexibility in their muscles and joints. A trained physical therapist can customize a plan that targets specific areas of concern such as the hips, knees or spine. This can help reduce pain and improve mobility, allowing pets to move around more easily and enjoy their favorite activities.

ACUPUNCTURE involves inserting tiny needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the nervous system and promote healing. Acupuncture can help relieve pain, reduce inflammation and improve circulation, all contributing to improved pet mobility.

CHIROPRACTIC CARE involves manipulating the spine to correct misalign-

ments and improve overall function. This can help pets with hip dysplasia, arthritis or spinal injuries.

MASSAGE involves gentle pressure and strokes to relax muscles, reduce pain and improve circulation. Massage can also help pets with anxiety or stress, which can contribute to muscle tension and pain.

NUTRITION: A well-balanced, nutrientdense diet can help with healing, inflammation reduction and overall health. A qualified veterinarian can recommend a diet plan tailored to each pet’s needs.

Easing a Pet’s Pain While in Treatment

Reducing a pet’s discomfort with fullspectrum cannabinoids or, if needed, prescription pain medications offers better comfort and recovery time. Another option is to reduce a pet’s stress by balancing its adrenal stress hormones.

Ruth Roberts is a holistic veterinarian and certified pet health coach with more than 30 years’ experience.

Photos by Phyllis Meredith Photography

Anna Cabeca DO, OBGYN, FACOG Stress and Libido

Arti Chandra, MD, MPH Healing Your Gut

Carol Penn ON FINDING CALM IN A CHAOTIC WORLD

by Sandra Yeyati

Dr. Carol Penn, double board-certified in family and obesity medicine, is a movement, meditation and mindset coach who teaches people to prioritize self-care to achieve their best and highest selves. She is certified in mind-body medicine, fitness and personal training, yoga and qigong, and draws inspiration and wisdom from a previous career as a dancer and dance educator with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Penn is the author of Meditation in a Time of Madness: A Guidebook for Talented Tweens, Teens, Their Parents and Guardians Who Need to Thrive.

Why did you write your book?

Because I was heartbroken after speaking to an 8-year-old in Parkland, Florida. I asked him, “Are you looking forward to going back to school?” not realizing his older sibling was one of the teenagers murdered in the Stoneman Douglas school shooting. He responded, “I feel like something bad could happen, and no one will be able to help me—not my parents, not my teachers, not even the president.”

An 8-year-old shouldn’t be afraid to go to school, and if that’s what our society is becoming, then children need resiliency skills, a way to self-soothe, and so do their parents. The book is a response to gun violence, but it also applies to the pandemic and other unprecedented events that cause that kind of internal chaos and disorientation that leads to mood disorders, depression, anxiety and suicidality. Whether it’s meditation, yoga, journaling or something else, mind-body skills can get you back to your center so you can function at a higher level from a place of calm and relaxed awareness, versus out of fear and nervousness.

Why do you define meditation as relaxed awareness?

Many people think that you have to sit in a certain posture and have no thoughts to meditate, but that isn’t true. We have 60,000 thoughts a day, and we don’t pay attention to most of them. Meditation allows you to slow your thoughts so they’re not as overwhelming and don’t interfere as much. When thoughts slow down and there’s space between them, your body also begins to slow down. Neurotransmitters like dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin and endorphins are released in the brain, and you feel their downstream effect, which we call relaxation

What is soft belly breathing?

Many times, you get into this rigid kind of breath where you’re holding your belly in and your shoulders are thrown back. People think they look better if they have a flat, tight belly, and that’s how they’re moving in the world, but they’re not getting the full experience of the breath. Soft

belly breathing relaxes the torso, particularly that area just below your navel. This type of breathing allows the diaphragm to push down and massage everything beneath it, improving digestion and elimination processes and allowing the lungs to fill out from their bases where you pick up all the oxygen and nutrients that need to be carried throughout the body. As you inhale, say the word “soft” to remind yourself to soften and let go of any muscle tension. As you exhale, say “belly” to be reminded not to hold that part of the body in a rigid way.

Why do you say that movement is medicine?

Motion is synonymous with life. There’s always something moving, even when we’re asleep. Even gentle movement helps the body release endorphins, which elevate our mood, reduce pain and bring us pleasure. We want to bring that flow and fluidity into our lives so that we can tap into it on purpose. Have you ever noticed the less you move, the harder it is to move? Movement needs to be encouraged throughout the lifespan.

What movements do you recommend?

One starts in a standing position. Notice how the rib cage moves as you soft belly breathe. Soften the knees, drop the chin to the chest and as you inhale, lift the arms and feel yourself float away slightly from the body to create a gentle undula-

tion of the spine. This stimulates the “mu” receptors that cause our brain to release pain-reducing endorphins.

Another is to shake it off, like when a dog is walking along and all of a sudden their back twitches, they shake and then continue along their merry way. If we’re bothering them, dogs will literally shake it off. They don’t let it anchor in the body, in their muscles and in their nervous system the way that humans do. Some people wake up tired. Their jaw hurts because they were clenching their teeth all night. By shaking off that tension for one to three minutes, you loosen the tight ligaments where we habitually hold tension.

What is

“taking

your seat on your throne,” and how can it help us?

I came up with that when teaching women how to meditate from a seated position. Women wear so many hats that life can feel weary, so asking them to sit down as if they’re taking a seat upon the throne of their own well-being gives them a way of sitting that’s different than just plopping down and collapsing because they’re exhausted. It shifts the energy and mental picture. You are more than the exhausted mother, executive, wife or caretaker. There’s a regal elegance, calm and quiet strength inside, and we’re going to meet her in our time of meditation.

Sandra Yeyati is national editor of Natural Awakenings

DIRECTORY LISTING CATEGORIES

PAGE 54

• 13th Octave/LaHoChi

2023 NATURAL LIVING DIRECTORY

NATURAL LIVING DIRECTORY 2023 INDEX

WELLNESS DREAM TEAM Practitioner Profiles & Business Spotlights

PAGE 39

• Shirley R. Bloethe

PAGE 40

• The Angel Cooperative

• The Angel Wing

PAGE 41

• Challenging Minds LLC

• Connecticut Center for Integrative Medicine

PAGE 42

• Edge to Health

• EyeCare Associates, PC

PAGE 43

• HyperFit MD Age Management Center

• Hummingbird Sound Yoga LLC

PAGE 44

• Institute for Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Therapies

• Joyful Living Reiki, LLC

PAGE 45

• Nicole Klughers, ND, PharmD, MSAc

• Beth Leas

PAGE 46

• The Mind Breathing Edge

• Rajayogini LLC

PAGE 47

• Reiki Will Travel LLC

• Nancy S. Scherlong, LCSW, SEP, PTR/CJT, CM

PAGE 48

• Soul Healing Journey, LLC

• Bradford Tilden, MM, CMT, UWT

PAGE 49

• The Transformation Center

• Two Coyotes Wilderness School

PAGE 50

• Dr. Michael Wald, DC

• Wolf Spirit Wellness

PAGE 51

• Conscious Creations

• The Herbal Room

PAGE 52

• New Insights Boutique

• Holistic Healing Manual Therapy

• Nikken Wellness with Julie Clark

PAGE 53

• Reiki With Dina

• Revive Salt Therapy & Wellness

• Spiritual Guidance with Annaita Gandhy

• Acupuncture

• Alexander Technique

• All Things Health & Wellness

• Ampcoil Center

• Ayurveda

PAGE 55

• Breast Thermography

• Career Coach/Hypnotist

• Chiropractic/Nutrition

• Craniosacral Therapy/Alexander Technique

• Education

• End Of Life Doula

• Energy Healing

PAGE 56

• Essential Oils

• Functional Medicine

• Functional Nutrition Coach

• Gemstone Healing

• Grief Support

• Healing Center

• Health Coach

• Herbal Education

• Holistic Networking

• Hypnotherapy

PAGE 57

• Integrative Natural Medicine

• Integrative Optometry

• JourneyDance

• Life Coaching

• Lyme + Co-Infections

• Massage Therapy

• Meditation

• Metaphysical Store

• Naturopathic Physician

PAGE 58

• Naturopathic Physician

• Nutrition

• Positive Psychology Coach

• Psychotherapy

• Reiki

PAGE 59

• Reiki

• Salt Healing Therapy Wellness Center

• Somatic Experiencing

• Sound Healing

• Spiritual Healing

• Thermography

• Transformative Healing

PAGE 60

• Transformative Healing

• Transitions Coaching

• Travel Agency

• Voice & Sound Coaching

• Wellness Center

PAGE 61

• Yoga

• Yoga Studio & Wellness Center

Photo by Pawel Czerwinski on Unsplash

NATURAL LIVING WELLNESS DREAM TEAM PROFILES

Summary/services offered:

Holistic and wellness matchmaking, holistic events coordinator, ceremonies, referrals and consulting for websites, marketing and collaborations. Business experience spanning more than 40 years in multiple small businesses, both brick-and-mortar and online. I have hosted holistic events for the last 35-plus years and have over 40 years of experience in the holistic community, connecting people with many products, modalities and teachings by numerous practitioners and businesses.

What drew you to this profession?

I have always been drawn to self-help and personal growth opportunities. My passion is to introduce people to their empowerment options through a variety of products, programs, modalities and organizations.

How does your work differ from others in your profession?

I have been involved in all types of businesses since my early years and also am a graduate of Hartford College in the Women’s Entrepreneurial Course. I was always on a holistic journey and in the early 1980s, I felt the pull to lead and learn all about wellness in the seven key areas of life: physical, spiritual, financial, family, career, mental health and education. Having connections to so many people allows me the opportunity to give great referrals. I know so many people who are excellent practitioners and I enjoy being a holistic matchmaker. Who do you need to meet? What are you looking for? Just ask!

What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know?

As head of the Holistic Community Professionals, I will offer the 2023 11th Bi-Annual EXPO: Passport to Health and Wellness. This event features some amazing exhibitors and speakers. Showcasing quality, reputable, local businesses and practitioners to the public is a win-win opportunity. Additionally, as a holistic matchmaker, I will refer you to your perfect products, client or practitioner. I am happy to help and collaborate with you. Call anytime. My database of holistic practitioners and businesses spans the U.S., and I truly enjoy partnering with them. Natural Awakenings is the perfect partner to share information with the public about what I do. See ads, pages 21 and 27.

The following practitioners and businesses are ready to help you achieve your health and wellness goals in 2023.

photo by Elena Kratovichon AdobeStock

The Angel Cooperative • The Angel Wing

Metaphysical Store • Shungite Room

49-51 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield 203-431-2959 • TheAngelCoop.com

Summary/ services offered:

The Angel Cooperative is a unique metaphysical and lifestyle boutique. Our mission is to be purveyors of positivity (POP), offering one-stop shopping for the home, body and soul. You will find a large selection of crystals, jewelry, inspired gifts, home décor, fashion, accessories, spiritual items, as well as the first Shungite Room in the U.S. Come explore products that create a sense of harmony and balance. From crystals to clothing, love and positivity abounds in the space.

human life. It is believed to have active metaphysical properties with strong healing powers.

Next door to The Angel Cooperative is The Angel Wing, a divine spiritual center. The Angel Wing hosts workshops, retreats, group and private readings, energy work sessions, reiki, massage, cosmic facials, sound healing and gong baths, group guided meditations, acupuncture, and a wide selection of yoga classes (vinyasa, gentle, yin with sound bath, kundalini with gong bath, restorative with sound bath, restorative with tarot and flow and restore with guided meditation). We also offer myriad certification courses: Crystal Healing; Meditation Levels I and II; Reiki I, II, and Master; Karuna; Tarot; and Foundations of Sound Healing Levels 1 and II.

What should someone expect from working with you?

Partners Laura Ancona and Christy Abate have created a store that embodies positive energy with a wide variety of merchandise and services which reflect that mission. We have curated a community of healers, offerings and metaphysical tools plus a large selection of crystals that support all people on their soul’s journey.

The Shungite Room hosts private energy sessions, angelic, tarot and oracle card readings, channeling and mediumship, reiki, workshops, aura photography and guided meditation led by a group of talented and experienced practitioners. Shungite is said to be around 2 billion years old. It is the only natural material known to contain fullerenes, a unique carbon molecular structure (also known as a buckyball). A Nobel Prize was awarded in 1996 for the discovery. The energy embodied within this extraordinarily positive ancient stone is said to help absorb and eliminate anything that is a health hazard to

What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? We love what we do! We feel called to be exactly where we are at this time. We are excited to continue evolving and expanding. This past year we have paid particular attention to the vibration of the words we use. We have found that we can help to break down old paradigms by consciously using words and language that elevate, enrich and expand!

There are myriad ways to connect with us. Enjoy our beautiful shop and explore our metaphysical products at the physical location and in our online store; we ship anywhere in the U.S. We offer in-person readings, workshops, sound healings, yoga, retreats, massage, certification classes and more in The Shungite Room and at The Angel Wing, our divine spiritual center.

Find all the information and register for events and readings at TheAngelCoop. com. Be sure to download our monthly calendar so you can see all the happenings at a glance. See ad, page 23.

Photo by Pawel Czerwinski on Unsplash

Challenging Minds LLC

Andrew Matusiak, LCSW & Melissa Hurley, LCSW

30 Peck Rd, Ste 1202, Torrington (Group Practice)

896 Bantam Rd, Bantam (Wellness Center)

860-361-6204

AndrewM@ChallengingMinds.net

ChallengingMinds.net

Summary/services offered: Challenging Minds LLC & Wellness Center believes in treating the whole person through offering holistic service options, including: Reiki, massage, reflexology, yoga, meditation, breath work and an infrared sauna. Challenging Minds also offers mental health counseling, for both groups and individuals.

How does your work differ from others in your profession?

The purpose of developing the Wellness Center in Bantam was to offer our clients more holistic options and also a space to utilize therapeutic group work. When a client’s whole self is considered, the outcomes are always better and more sustainable. Through a holistic approach to mental health needs, the client often feels more empowered, especially as they learn techniques that they can practice on their own, such as meditation and breath work.

What should someone expect from working with you?

Challenging Minds LLC began on Peck Road as a group practice in 2019, and continues to thrive, employing over 10 clinicians. All of our clinicians have diverse treatment specialties and the practice accepts all ages and diagnoses. Five of our clinicians are trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy, which is an evidenced-based treatment for those struggling with anxiety, depression and especially trauma and phobias.

What changes do you have planned for 2023?

The Challenging Minds group practice and the Wellness Center staff are committed to working with the teens in our community, especially as the community rebounds from COVID-19. We will once again be supporting the Litchfield High School baseball team, this year with breath work training. There will also be an in-person social skills teen support group and multiple online clinical groups available throughout the year.

What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know?

Along with our focus on mental health supports for clients of Challenging Minds LLC, the Wellness Center is offering homeopathic options for those who would prefer to avoid only allopathic medicine. Some of the current homeopathic treatment options offered are Reiki, massage, reflexology and an infrared sauna, by Sunlighten. Each of our providers has many years of experience and provide treatment options in a setting that is ideal for decompressing and ultimate relaxation.

Connecticut Center for Integrative Medicine

Dr. Veena Verma-Dzik, ND

1200 High Ridge Rd, 2nd Fl, Stamford 929-379-0920

Info@CTCIntegrative.com

CTCIntegrative.com

Summary/services offered: I provide an integrative, holistic approach using functional medicine, botanical medicine, immunotherapy, homeopathic medicine, nutrition and acupuncture. Each patient receives individualized care and I help those with tick-borne illnesses, gastrointestinal conditions, autoimmune diseases, allergies, food sensitivities, mold and environmental toxicities, ADD/ ADHD, mood and hormone imbalances, as well as specializing in women’s health and pediatrics.

What drew you to this profession?

I grew up around conventional medicine. At the same time, I was fortunate to be a part of a family that believed in living a healthy life, eating nutritiously and using many alternative therapies can bring a person back to health.

How does your work differ from others in your profession?

I take the time to listen and to get to know my patients. This is the first step in getting people better. From a person’s lifestyle, nutrition and personal and family histories, I am able to get to the heart of what is causing one’s ailments and provide the support and individualized care one needs to attain their health and get their life back again.

What should someone expect from working with you?

Patients can happily expect to receive the attention and personalized care that they need to address all of their health concerns, and to have someone to turn to for the support for all aspects of their mental and physical health and well-being.

What changes do you have planned for 2023?

We are thrilled about the opening of our new integrative medicine center this year!

What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know?

I have been a Naturopathic physician for over 15 years. Along with ongoing training in the conditions I specialize in, I use my own life experiences in providing my patients with the care they need to regain their health and live a fulfilling life.

Edge to Health

Renee Edge

4 Brookmoor Rd, Avon 860-681-3427

Renee@EdgeToHealth.com

EdgeToHealth.com

Summary/services offered: I am a Functional Nutrition Coach, which means I take a holistic approach to health by incorporating food, sleep, stress, fitness and toxic environmental factors, in the effort to reduce the impact of stressors or specific diagnosis on the body. I specialize in supporting children with anxiety, ADHD, autism, depression or trauma histories. I offer group workshops and trainings, in addition to individual coaching and nutrition consultations.

What drew you to this profession?

I am a formerly frazzled mom, whose experience grew from trial and error experimentation with my own children and propelled me back to school to study nutrition. Seeing the impact of food on the attention, behavior and moods of my own children fueled the desire to share this knowledge with other families who were struggling with the behavior of their own children. Now I specialize in nourishing better behavior by helping families to change their child’s attention, behavior and mood using food everyone in the family will enjoy.

How does your work differ from others in your profession?

There are two significant differences working with a Functional Nutrition Coach. First, it isn’t just about food—we consider all of the factors in your life, and how they impact you and your food choices. Second, it is not just about me prescribing foods to you, it is about building from what you are already eating to a healthier version that meets your nutritional needs. Foods you value, or culturally specific foods, are integrated into your healthy eating plan. We integrate mindfulness to aid you in developing a greater awareness of and understanding of your choices.

What should someone expect from working with you?

In working with me, you will find that it is possible to honor your cultural foods and preferences, while making small changes to increase your overall health and wellness.

What changes do you have planned for 2023?

This year will see the return of live workshops and sessions in addition to expanded virtual offerings via Zoom.

What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know?

In addition to your overall health, mood, behavior, sleep and stress are all impacted by the food you consume. Healing is possible with what you put in your grocery cart!

EyeCare Associates, PC

Dr. Randy Schulman, MS, OD, FCOVD

Dr. Robert Byne • Dr. Allie Decker

Dr. Jason Grygier • Dr. Ken Landesman

Dr. Diana Ngo • Dr. Maryam Nizami

Dr. Justin Rapp • Dr. Sonia Singh

Dr. Magy Tepliz

Offices in Trumbull, Southport, Norwalk, Stamford, Mahopac, NY & Mount Kisco, NY CTEyeCareAssociates.com

Summary/services offered:

EyeCare Associates and Dr. Randy Schulman have been serving Fairfield County as a leading provider of optometry services, vision care products, vision therapy, sports vision, neuro-optometric rehabilitation and preventive eye care for nearly 30 years. With offices in Trumbull, Southport, Norwalk and Stamford, the experienced team of doctors and therapists helps patients of all ages with their vision needs, including those with complex vision needs such as specialty contact lenses, dry eye, reading and learning challenges, brain injury and strabismus.

What drew you to this profession?

When I was 15 years old, I worked for Dr. Carl Gruning, a behavioral optometrist in Fairfield. I was amazed at how much better the patients got after doing vision therapy. The children were more focused and better behaved, and the adults were happier. As a behavioral optometrist, I understand, “how you see is how you be,” and vision can be changed for the better.

How does your work differ from others in your profession?

As an integrative optometrist, I am looking at how the visual system functions. I look at how vision is connected to physical, emotional and mental health and overall wellness. Treatment based on the whole person includes prescribing optimal glasses, as well as giving lifestyle modifications and visual wellness suggestions.

What should someone expect from working with you?

Patients should expect a careful assessment of symptoms, visual demands, health and wellness, visual function and prescription needs. We also give recommendations for optimizing vision and quality of life.

What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? We place high emphasis on education and offer internships for optometry students from around the country and plan on adding another Optometry resident. We are happy to speak to groups about vision and are actively seeking individuals who want to join our team.

Photo by Pawel Czerwinski on Unsplash

HyperFit MD Age Management Center

Charles Guglin, MD, F.A.C.S., Owner

88 Noble Ave, Ste 105, Milford

203-890-9777

HyperFitMD.com

Summary/services offered: We are proud to offer age management and preventative care to enhance your quality of life. Based in Milford, we cater to all of southern Connecticut and its surrounding areas. We are passionate about treating the root cause of health issues, not just the symptoms. Our highly educated staff provide only well-researched and proven methods to restore health and wellness to its optimal level.

What drew you to this profession?

Toward the end of this tenure, Dr. Charles Guglin became somewhat dissatisfied with medicine the way it is typically practiced in this country. It has become the norm, in part because of the undue influence of the insurance and pharmaceutical industries, to allow patients to become chronically unhealthy, mostly as a result of lifestyle issues, then to treat their symptoms with pharmaceuticals or invasive surgery. At that point he became impassioned about the newer concept and the field of Preventative/Functional medicine.

How does your work differ from others in your profession?

Practitioners in this field are dedicated to finding the root cause of chronic illnesses through the use of advanced diagnostics, including extensive blood studies, genomics, body composition analysis, VO2 Max studies and aesthetic treatments..

What should someone expect from working with you?

Clients sit down with Dr. Guglin and together they formulate a comprehensive plan, including nutritional counseling, age and fitness level appropriate physical training, nutraceuticals, hormone optimization and stress reduction strategies.

What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know?

Dr. Guglin feels that this is the best approach to achieving wellness—no matter what age or state of health you are in presently. He understands that, only through hard work and dedication to achieving your personal health goals, along with the education and medical assistance HyperFit MD can provide, you can dramatically improve your health and quality of life. See ad, page 11.

Hummingbird Sound Yoga LLC

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares

Merryall, New Milford

860-946-9470

BSoares@LightOfTheNewMoon.com

HummingbirdSoundYoga.com

Facebook @HummingbirdSoundYoga

Summary/services offered:

Sound and vocal yoga classes; sound healing immersions including gongs, bowls, tuning forks, voice, transformational energy/shamanic Reiki; humming meditation, toning, deep listening; sacred sound journeys/sound baths/ sacred fire ceremony; workshops, group and private sessions; available for performances, presentations.

What drew you to this profession?

Church bells ringing when I was born! I’ve had a lifelong study of and interest in spirituality, singing and creative arts. Unresolved health issues of Lyme, Ehlers-Danlos and a NDE drew me deeper into the sacred work of the gong and sound yoga healing.

How does your work differ from others in your profession?

I use a diverse blend of vibrational healing techniques from music, science, creative arts therapy, shamanic light body practices, sacred sound journeys and soul retrievals. Passion for honoring our unique vibration through play grounding, laughter, primal sound and vocal yoga. Giving others hope and inspiration by sharing my “wounded healer” experience of undiagnosed Lyme and EhlersDanlos. Experimental and directed vocal/instrumental compositions and improvisations.

What should someone expect from working with you?

Strong intuitive and cognitive guidance, commitment, compassion and respect. Honoring that we are all unique vibratory beings.

What changes do you have planned for 2023?

Very excited to be adding vocal arts and sound coaching sessions where I will help people find their “goldilocks” note using soul singing, improvisation and deep listening. These “one with sound” exercises will help improve their voice and vocal confidence, expand their range and help strengthen their breathing/diaphragmatic support. Looking forward to meeting in person again for community “call and response” and Om Choir chanting!

What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? Drink deeply. Hummingbird’s powerful medicine of vibration teaches you to listen deeply and be in the stillness of the present moment. It shows us how to take the journey without hesitation or expectation to find the perfect resonances that tune and nourish mind, body and spirit. It is only in the stillness of the present moment that we can clarify, resonate and reclaim our best self. See ad, page 26.

Institute for Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Therapies

Neeru Kaushik, ND, MS Acu, MS, MA

Neha Kaushik, NMD, MPH, MS

805 Kings Hwy E, Fairfield • 203-331-9111

82 Bradley Rd, Ste 6, Madison

Health@AyurCT.com • AyurCT.com

Summary/services offered:

Ayurvedic and Naturopathic medicine allows for the treatment of a multitude of conditions and ailments. At the Institute, we offer individualized treatment with diet and lifestyle recommendations according to one’s dosha (body constitution), panchakarma, acupuncture, homeopathy and more. What drew you to this profession?

Dr. Neeru: As a child, I was always curious to know about the human body and its functions and am passionate about helping others. This profession offered me the opportunity to incorporate both.

Dr. Neha: As I was going through figuring my own health out, I turned to Ayurvedic and Naturopathic physicians. Getting to the root cause helped me get in better health, and I was drawn to learn more and provide the same care and opportunities for others.

How does your work differ from others in your profession?

Our practice is a unique combination of Ayurvedic, Chinese and Naturopathic medicine. In Ayurveda, health represents a balance of body, mind and spirit. Imbalances cause illness and can be detected before manifestation. By combining the unique therapies of Ayurveda with acupuncture and naturopathy, we create an individualized treatment program to achieve the optimum healing benefits, especially in chronic conditions.

What should someone expect from working with you?

Our aim is to get to the root cause of the condition(s) that a client is going through. We ask detailed questions to get a whole picture of health, diet, lifestyle and environment—as they all play an important role. We educate the client throughout the whole process so that they are aware of what is happening in their body and a possibility of why. With that understanding, they understand what needs to be done, then they will stick to the treatment recommendations more closely. We believe in having a supporting and guiding role for a client and strive for that bond. We strive for our patients to know just how resilient and self-healing their bodies are and can grow to be.

What changes do you have planned for 2023?

We are opening a new office location in Madison and are currently planning one for New York City. We are excited to be able to increase access to more individuals on their journey of optimal health. We are also incorporating more pain management modalities as well as adding new Ayurvedic therapies into our practice.

What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know?

We offer a patient-centered personalized health plan and focus on our patient’s overall health instead of on just the symptoms. Healing takes place when the body is brought back into balance; a body out of balance promotes disease. Bringing the body back into balance includes an individual customized plan of diet, supplements and lifestyle changes. We aim at educating and empowering clients toward their optimal health. See ad, page 31.

Joyful Living Reiki, LLC

Gail Christie, Holy Fire Reiki Master Stamford and Mount Kisco, NY

JoyfulLivingReiki.com

Summary/services offered:

As a Holy Fire Usui, Karuna and World Peace Reiki Master Teacher, I help people tap into an everpresent flow of life force energy to release stress and pain and develop an enduring spiritual connection. This allows them to live healthy, focused, joy-filled lives. I provide virtual and in-person Reiki healing sessions, online Reiki-infused meditations and Holy Fire Reiki certification classes of all levels.

What drew you to this profession?

My spiritual journey started when I was just a child. I knew even then that I was meant to help people heal and had a longing for an ongoing spiritual connection. Years of meditation, Tai Chi practice, Zen training and experiencing various types of energy healing made me ready to embrace Holy Fire Reiki when it appeared.

How does your work differ from others in your profession?

The refinement and particularly high vibration of Holy Fire energy, and my ability to provide it without an agenda, are what set my Reiki practice apart from others. My clients often remark on the profound sense of peace, comfort, balance and renewal it provides.

What should someone expect from working with you?

I provide a safe, welcoming, nurturing space which helps my clients receive healing on all levels. My Reiki certification classes are profoundly healing experiences and more comprehensive than most. They also provide a clear path for spiritual development to those who make Holy Fire Reiki a part of their lives.

What changes do you have planned for 2023?

I look forward to continuing my connection with people all over the country and all over the world through my online meditations, session and trainings. I was also recently certified as an Advanced Level Integrated Energy Therapist (IET) and am adding the pure, targeted IET angel healing to certain sessions. This will help clients heal and release past patterns and emotions and empower them to move into the future with greater confidence and ease.

What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know?

My whole life is an expression of Reiki, compassion and unconditional love. My greatest joy is helping people go from feeling overwhelmed, isolated or in pain to feeling cared for, spiritually supported and on their way to a new level of healing. Take time to join me for Reiki. Take time to do what makes your soul happy. See ad, page 2.

Nicole Klughers, ND, PharmD, MSAc

Vis Wellness Center, Rocky Hill & TeleMedicine

234-222-8362 • Hello@DrNicoleKlughers.com

DrNicoleKlughers.com

Summary/services offered:

I’m a licensed naturopathic physician, acupuncturist, wellness educator and former pharmacist. I offer all-natural solutions to restore optimal health and help individuals reclaim a life of energy, balance and joy.

What drew you to this profession?

I’ve been passionate about helping people and our planet from an early age. At 14 years old, my journey into medicine began while working in a small-town pharmacy where I was inspired by the pharmacist’s unique role in patient health care. I considered the pharmacy a “last stop” in our healthcare system, where patients were able to ask detailed medication questions and obtain more tools to be proactive about their health and decided to become a pharmacist.

While working as a pharmacist, I observed the limitations of conventional medicine in its ability to offer long-term, healing solutions. Oftentimes, patients could only take a medication for so long before another health condition, complication or side effect developed. While witnessing this, and exploring my own personal growth and healing, I fully recognized that pharmaceuticals were not the way I wanted to help people.

I knew there had to be a better way for me to provide “health” care to my community, and realized that many people weren’t satisfied with the idea of relying on pharmaceuticals for the rest of their lives. I knew I wanted to help others to heal naturally and became drawn to naturopathic medicine.

How does your work differ from others in your profession?

Although I’m officially now a naturopathic physician, I’m commonly called a “health detective” as my approach involves listening attentively to all the “clues” and utilizing detailed testing to “investigate” and address the root cause of health concerns. I’m often presented with complicated and chronic unsolved health mysteries from individuals who have not found relief elsewhere. These individuals come to my practice after seeing multiple practitioners or specialists, yet still feel there are aspects of their health going unaddressed. They know there must be overlooked connections between a variety of their ailments.

What should someone expect from working with you?

My commitment is to be as thorough as possible, dedicating 60 to 90 minutes per appointment, which allows for people to be fully understood and ask plenty of questions—without feeling rushed. See ad, page 19.

Beth

Virtual and In-Person Sessions

203-856-9566

TLCBethLeas@gmail.com

BethLeas.com

203TLC.com

Summary/ services offered: Transformative healing sessions, intuitive readings, coaching programs, unique PlayShops—all designed to inspire and facilitate change in your life. Get unstuck, clarify your intentions, heal and feel more power and perspective. If you do not change direction, you may end up where you are heading.

What drew you to this profession?

My healing journey began when I was drawn to meditation and alternative healing modalities as effective ways to heal from an abusive childhood. I love helping others who are feeling stuck step into their power to transform their lives.

How does your work differ from others in your profession?

I have more than 30 years of extensive healing experience working with adults and children of all ages. I use four powerful tools: energy healing, meditation, reflective writing and transformative tarot. Your session may focus singularly on one of these or be a combination of several.

What should someone expect from working with you?

You will feel supported and come into a place where it is safe to wake up from what came before. Change is inevitable, but transformation is by conscious choice.

What changes do you have planned for 2023?

I am looking forward to expanding my online programs and retreats, in addition to collaborating with other professionals to best serve our clients.

What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know?

My down-to-earth sessions combine my gift of intuition with my personal practice of mindfulness, compassion and lightheartedness. See ad, page 2.

The Mind Breathing Edge

Alexia Clonda ThetaHealing Teacher, Mindset and Breathing Coach Virtual & In-Person

607-319-9161

MindBreathingEdge@gmail.com

ThetaHealing.com/alexiaclonda

Summary/services offered: I am a ThetaHealing Teacher, Mindset and Breathing coach with over 20 years of experience. I help people create healthy relationships with themselves and others. I help them clear their negative thought and feeling patterns that keep them stuck or limited, thus release the patterns that block their sense of connection and belonging.

What drew you to this profession?

My healing journey centered on my own sense of belonging due to my mother abandoning me when I was three years old. She connected with the other eight of my siblings, which made me feel like there was something wrong with me. I was the odd one out and felt I did not belong and unloved. This left me feeling disconnected, with no sense of security. This belief and feeling of not belonging started at an even earlier age with the development of asthma, breathing issues, not being able to take in life, when I was just 10 months old.

ThetaHealing helped me release the painful emotions that I was carrying from childhood. The process allowed me to experience unconditional love from my mother and vice versa. It was finally safe for me to connect to her. Our relationship began to heal, and we became the best of friends. Now I bring these modalities to my clients to help them build meaningful relationships with others and themselves.

How does your work differ from others in your profession?

I combine a variety of healing techniques including breath work and energy healing in my services. These powerful techniques help you identify thoughts and release emotions. They help you to awaken your emotional intelligence and resolve issues that affect your ability to trust and feel safe in relationships. I work on every level of your being, including the mind, body, spirit, emotions and breath of life. Breathing is the key in flowing in life and having a healthy life. After working together, you will understand the truth that you do indeed belong, are supported and feel a sense of freedom.

What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? Our sense of belonging, connection and having meaningful relationships is foundational to our self-worth and love of self and others. When you are open to healing old wounds, it’s possible to resolve any resistance to creating healthy relationships. You are worthy and deserving of unconditional love, simply because you are here to create and experience a wonderful life. If you would like to know more and receive a Breathing Meditation to Relax and Ground Yourself, please book a 15-minute clarity call with me via email at MindBreathingEdge@gmail.com (put “Natural Awakenings” in the subject line).

Rajayogini LLC

Berta Prevosti Online Meditation, Yoga & Metaphysical Studies Platform

203-902-5090

Support@Rajayogini.com

Rajayogini.com

Summary/services offered:

Get the full studio experience from the comfort of home. Rajayogini.com is an online platform for meditation and yoga. We offer online classes in meditation and yoga, yoga teacher training programs, certifications, workshops, retreats and metaphysical studies. Join us for a free week of classes, along with access to our Member’s Only Pages.

What drew you to this profession?

I dreamt of creating a space where healing on all levels was possible through education of the body, mind and soul. I have had the pleasure of creating a beautiful yoga/meditation studio in the past, but now it appears the Universe would like me to reach more people by creating an online experience. For me, this is not a profession, but an extension of who I am. I didn’t really have a say in it.

How does your work differ from others in your profession?

I have over 30 years of experience in this field and feel honored to have worked with and taught thousands of people who, like me, are in search of a higher purpose in life. I am a E-RYT 500hr certified Yoga Alliance Teacher as well as a YACEP provider, with over 1,000 hours of CEUs. I am a certified Reiki Master in Usui and Karuna Systems of Universal Hands On Reiki Healing. Plus, I love what I do, and even more love to see the experience of my students as they become exceptional teachers.

What should someone expect from working with you?

You should expect everything from working with me and you will receive it. You should expect your life to change, and then expect to begin to do the same for others.

What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know?

Your experience will feel as if you were in person. We will strive to perfect our online experience to achieve just that. We only hire and teach from our hearts and you will feel as if you have found your community with us. Please join Rajayogini.com and begin your journey with us.

Photo by Pawel Czerwinski on Unsplash

Reiki Will Travel LLC

Cheryl Benanti

Various locations in Connecticut

860-966-0121

ReikiWillTravel@gmail.com

ReikiWillTravel.com

Summary/services offered: Mobile Reiki sessions

What drew you to this profession?  I was searching for connection and various ways to help others. I took my first Reiki class and knew this was something I was meant to pursue and share with others. My passion is working with people to bring them a sense of calm and empowerment for their overall well-being. I encourage people to be comfortable in their own skin and be accepting of themselves in a safe environment.

How does your work differ from others in your profession?

I offer in-home sessions, business wellness days and sessions in various office locations. In addition, I work with therapists who refer clients to me with anxiety, stress and related holistic health issues. I’m able to help alleviate those issues with Reiki treatments.

What should someone expect from working with you?  Clients can expect a calming and relaxing experience in a safe space where their privacy is respected. A client testimonial states, “She brings knowledge, compassion, healing and strength to her clients.”

What changes do you have planned for 2023?

I’m looking forward to working with animals, especially horses after having such wonderful experiences already with them. I would also like to expand my practice in 2023.

What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? My practice is mobile and in various locations to make Reiki sessions easily accessible.

Nancy S. Scherlong, LCSW, SEP, PTR/CJT, CM

470 Main St, Ste 307, Ridgefield 914-572-3167

WellnessMetaphors.com

ChangeYourNarrativeTherapy.com

Summary/services offered: I offer life, wellness and creativity coaching as well as experiential and holistic psychotherapy. I utilize techniques such as EMDR and brainspotting, IFS, SE and expressive arts-based groups and workshops.

What drew you to this profession? Originally an artist, I have been a psychotherapist for over 20 years. I began helping others after my own recovery from an automobile accident in 1991. At that time, I received many of the methods I now use with my clients.

How does your work differ from others in your profession?

My work is strength-based and focused on positive psychology and innovative problem solving. I will help you find and express your own unique voice through the creative arts—journal work, poetry and psychodrama.

What should someone expect from working with you?

My philosophy is that we can all change our lives by changing our story or mindset. Once we have shifted how we view things, we can approach them in a new and fresh way.

What changes do you have planned for 2023?

I find I am teaching more and more workshops, facilitating groups and providing training in person, online and at conferences. I am expanding my corporate wellness offerings as well as customizing packages for small businesses.

What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? Healing is a collaboration or a partnership involving mind, body and spirit as well as a chosen practitioner. Contact me today for a free 30-minute discovery session about how we can work together to achieve your goals. See ad, page 21.

Soul Healing Journey, LLC

Eilis Philpott Fairfield • 203-767-5954

Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com • SoulHealingJourney.com

Summary/services offered:

I am a master healer and teacher certified in numerous modalities and am one of only two teachers approved to teach 13th Octave LaHoChi in the U.S. I offer soul-level healing of various types, clearing blocks, obstacles and challenges preventing you from living your life to its fullest potential. I also offer customized training programs that support other healers. Modalities currently offered include: 13th Octave LaHoChi, Akashic Field Healing and Training, Soul Language and Way of the Warrior training, Quantum Healing Hypnosis (QHH) and Rebirthing Breathwork.

What drew you to this profession?

I became fascinated at an early age with the impact thoughts and emotions had on the body and the psyche. As I experienced both working in the corporate arena, the educational and then the world of energetic healing, I knew my place was in the healing arts. I’ve since learned part of my purpose and mission is to spread love throughout humanity and to teach others how to do the same.

How does your work differ from others in your profession?

I have trained in many healing modalities and my education is ongoing. This allows me to offer bespoke sessions and programs that evolve and integrate everything I have learned to date. Each session/program is customized for the individual, as I am guided which combination of modalities will serve the highest good. The work we do together at Soul Healing Journey supports the internal energetic shifts needed in order to live a life of peace, harmony and joy as well as supporting achievement of the individual’s soul mission on the planet

What should someone expect from working with you?

Fundamentally, we all want to feel loved and many of us have not experienced true unconditional love in our lives. Every class, training and modality I teach is based in love and learning a true acceptance of who we are and where we are in that moment in time. All sessions are dictated by the needs of the client on that day and every session is thus individualized to each person’s needs. Over more than 20 years, I have seen individuals change their careers, work through major trauma and abuse, and improve their current relationships or create new ones.

What changes do you have planned for 2023?

I continually strive to educate myself to better serve in my practice so new modalities are often added or incorporated into my offerings. 2023 promises even greater expansion including more 13th Octave LaHoChi practitioner trainings in Connecticut and other states, as well as a first-ever in-person 13th Octave LaHoChi practitioner training in Ireland in June. My programs and classes are now regularly scheduled in person as well as virtually.

What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know?

The greatest wish I have for all my clients is that they truly know what it feels like to be loved unconditionally. No matter where you are, where you’ve been and where you’re going, you deserve to know and love every aspect of yourself. Understanding this at a deep level is the key to achieving your soul mission here on the planet. See ad, page 33.

Bradford Tilden, MM, CMT, UWT

Crystal Music Healing

The Center for Higher Living, 130 Webster Sq Rd, Berlin And remotely via Zoom

860-830-5841 • Info@CrystalMusicHealing.com

CrystalMusicHealing.com

Summary/services offered:

I am a spiritual health practitioner specializing in healing childhood and past-life trauma, empowerment and awakening. I offer sessions and trainings in Universal White Time (UWT) Healing and Gemstone Healing. I also facilitate angelic and shamanic sound healing experiences and teach people how to use their own voice for healing and transformation.

What drew you to this profession?

Creating music is my gift to the world. Discovering my music has inspirational healing qualities led me to the healing arts. How I became a White Time Healer is an incredible story you can read in my chapter in the best-selling book, Energy Medicine Solutions These disciplines have guided me through personal health recovery, spiritual growth, empowerment and transformation. How does your practice differ from others in your profession?

As I am one of the leading UWT Healers in the country, I have access to and work with some of the highest energies and angelic light-beings in this Universe through my trainings and initiations in Universal White Time Healing. Many of these initiations are available for my clients to rapidly accelerate their spiritual growth.

What should a client expect from working with you?

I aim to provide an effective experience. I take time to listen to concerns, and choose the best combination of my preferred tools (energy, sound, gemstones) to help my clients enjoy lasting change, attain inner peace, empowerment and improved quality of life. Clients feel safe and quickly relax in my presence.

What changes do you have planned for 2023?

I now offer session packages and a three-month Accelerated Healing Program. I am continuing to grow a local community of certified UWT practitioners, developing a sound healing certification program and hope to offer the UWT Level 1 Energy Healing Class online.

What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? I respond well to invitations to be interviewed and to travel to teach the UWT classes to your local community. Also, you can experience my sound healing live at the Bridge Healing Arts Center in Farmington, every other Thursday evening at 6pm. See ad, page 21.

The Transformation Center

Katie Augustyn

7 Reimer Rd, Westport

203-820-3800

TransformationCenterCT@gmail.com

TransformationCenterCT.com

Summary/services offered: We offer individual Transformation Coaching and Shamanic Healing sessions by appointment. We also have a variety of group workshops and classes, including the monthly Conscious Conversations Group, shamanic clinics on Zoom, breathwork, sound baths and more. All the events are listed on our website. Everything we do at the Center is focused on helping you experience a greater self-awareness, so you can transform your limiting beliefs and access your inner knowing to be who you truly are and live a life that you love.

What drew you to this profession?

I have a passion for empowering people to be who they truly are, and to discover their purpose. Once I realized how beneficial energy healing and coaching were for me, I wanted to use them to allow others to create fulfilling and meaningful lives for themselves.

How does your work differ from others in your profession?

I have training and experience in several modalities that I use to help my clients heal, evolve and transform their lives. Each client receives a personalized session tailored to their individual needs. We also offer a variety of group workshops and classes.

What should someone expect from working with you?

You will be nurtured and honored, and you will release energy and patterns that don’t serve you, replacing limiting erroneous beliefs with empowering accurate beliefs. You will experience a greater self-awareness, have less fear and achieve clarity on what you need to have the life you want.

What changes do you have planned for 2023?

The Conscious Conversations Group is new for 2023. We meet to talk about a variety of spiritual topics and learn from each other, and all are welcome. We will continue to hold some of our events outdoors when possible and incorporate the backyard labyrinth. We will partner with other practitioners to offer sound baths, breathwork, group meditations, intuitive readings and more workshops.

What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know?

We are all connected and are here to help each other thrive. We all have what we need inside of us, and I can assist you in accessing your inner knowing and spiritual resources to be who you truly are and live a life that you love. See ad, page 2.

Two Coyotes Wilderness School

197 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown • 203-843-3112

Kevin@TwoCoyotes.org • TwoCoyotes.org

Facebook.com/TwoCoyotes

Instagram.com/TwoCoyotes

Summary/services offered:

Two Coyotes Wilderness School is a nonprofit nature mentoring organization that connects people to nature, community and self. We design interdisciplinary programs that provide a dynamic environment for students to face challenges, engage their natural curiosity and cultivate an intrinsic love for learning. Since 2000, we have honed our innovative and transformative programs through school day, child and caregiver, rites of passage, mentor-in-training and summer camp programs. During the school year, students spend a full school day outside in the woods with us each week as a complement to their educational experience home schooling or in a public/private school.

What drew you to this profession?

Two Coyotes was founded in 2000 to help young people foster a connection to nature and their environment. Our work is a response to a history that began, on this continent, with the forcible removal of indigenous people from their land, continued as nature and wilderness environments became white spaces in America and persists today as many urban residents lack easy access to safe outdoor spaces in their community. Today’s youth spend more time indoors and in front of screens, whether at home or in school, than any other generation. We are committed to addressing these inequities and to help today’s youth foster a sense of self that is rooted in a sense of place.

How does your work differ from others in your profession?

We believe that nature connection is our birthright as humans, and therefore every activity, game or song that we introduce helps foster connection with the earth. Unlike other youth programs, Two Coyotes Wilderness School challenges young people to learn about themselves as they encounter the natural world and understand their own place in it. We believe our unique emphasis on mentoring, cultural practices and personal growth results in stronger intergenerational connections, deeper community ties, greater self-awareness and profound respect for the Earth.

What changes do you have planned for 2023?

We will continue to offer our weekly Coyote Village School Year Program, Summer Camps, Coyote Pups and Mentor-in-Training programs.

What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know?

Two Coyotes has a vision of creating a healthier and more connected future for all people. We inspire enthusiasm for learning in creative and invisible ways by utilizing the abundance of child passions as teaching tools. Our programs nurture values such as service, thanksgiving, leadership, self-trust, respect, teamwork, fun and discovery. See ad, page 35.

Dr. Michael Wald, DC,

Board-Certified Nutritionist

29 King St, 2nd Fl, Chappaqua, NY

914-552-1442 • Info@BloodDetective.com

DrMichaelWald.com

Summary/ services offered:

Dr. Wald is nicknamed “the blood detective” for developing a lab interpretation software that nutritionally interprets large amount of lab data. He began as doctor of chiropractic, then gained a master’s degree and board certifications in nutrition. Among the most qualified nutritional doctors, Wald offers a range of blood tests, hyperbaric, low-temperature sauna, non-radiation bone density and other advanced tests.

What drew you to this profession?

My father was a nutritionist and chiropractor, and I witnessed over many years how he helped so many people. I was hooked! My father also managed my diagnosis (at 18 years old) of multiple sclerosis, and at age 57 I run marathons, lift weights and have no physical limitations, without meds!

How does your work differ from that of others in your profession? I might be considered different mainly because of my development of the BloodDetective software and approach to determining healing plans for my patients. It helps me interpret large amounts of lab data quickly and accurately by comparing a patient’s test results not merely to those of average people, but also to those of healthy people—often uncovering many hidden health problems.

What should someone expect from working with you? Those that work with me will soon see that I can effectively provide my patients with my full attention and BloodDetective approach. I strive to develop doable health plans targeted to each person’s unique needs.

What changes do you have planned for 2023?

My goals include publishing three books: Long Covid & Natural Solutions, the Dangers of Alcohol & Other Toxins and Dementia Dilemma - how to prevent and treat memory loss naturally.

What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? Integrating nutrition based upon your biochemistry allows for real healing to take place. Incorporating how to get and stay healthy is another challenge that is possible for anyone with the right support structure and healing intentions carefully incorporated into your life. Helping people make this happen is my number one intention. See ad, page 7.

Wolf Spirit Wellness

670 Main St South Ste B2, Woodbury 203-263-3175

Info@WolfSpiritWellness.org

WolfSpiritWellness.org

Summary/ services offered: Wolf Spirit Wellness and Counseling offers both traditional and alternative mental health counseling for individuals, families, couples and groups.

How does your work differ from that of others in your profession?

We specialize in trauma (PTSD, complex trauma, and family trauma) from a neurobiological and somatic perspective. We utilize alternative healing methods such as Reiki, meditation and hypnosis in our traditional sessions, so our clients get the maximum benefit of the mind, body and spirit connection.

What should someone expect from working with you?

We are Mind, Body and Spirit connected and collaborate with MDs, APRNs and BCBAs to ensure our clients and their families have a coordination of care that reflects a holistic and traditional (where warranted) perspective. We feel this is the optimal way for our clients to achieve successful healing while learning to navigate their world in the healthiest manner.

What changes do you have planned for 2023?

We are adding Conscious Parenting and have begun working on an Autism program for adults on the spectrum

What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know?

We are providing telehealth, in office and in-home therapy for individuals, couples and families. We take most commercial insurance, Husky/Medicaid and will work on a sliding scale with clients who have no insurance. The Wolf Spirit Family is ready to assist you on your journey towards your own mind, body and spirit connection. See ad, page 15.

Photo by Pawel Czerwinski on Unsplash

NATURAL LIVING DIRECTORY BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS 2023

Conscious Creations

Psychotherapist, intuitive and healer Carolyn Coleridge, LCSW, has opened a meditation and healing center in Bloomfield. With 27 years of experience, Coleridge is a metaphysician who teaches on working with the Universe to help people to heal old wounds and manifest a sense of peace.

Coleridge hosts drop-in meditation classes on Thursdays at 6pm and Saturdays at 11am. Contact her to check availability of classes. Enjoy an array or crystals and spiritual books about growth and development. She teaches about dreams, intuitive development, clearing negative beliefs and the meditative method of using ThetaHealing. com, which heals people on a soul level. Intuitive healings, readings and spiritual counseling are also offered.

“When you find your true purpose, the Universe will set you up to create everything for your highest good,” says Coleridge. “Your spirit is your guiding force. It is synchronistic, purposeful, intuitive, rejuvenating, intelligent and truthful. Listen to your spirit and you will understand more meaning in your life.”

Having appeared on CNN and USA network, Coleridge has also written two books, Honor Your Spirit and Soul Wisdom, and a workbook, How To Work With The Universe. She is also a meditation and spiritual wisdom teacher on the Insight Timer app, and has a podcast on Spotify regarding Universal insights.

For more information, text 323-782-9085, visit IntuitiveSoulHealing.com or follow @Conscious_CreationsCT on Instagram. See ad, page 19.

The Herbal Room

TheHerbal Room is a full-service naturopathic wellness clinic, offering medical visits, comprehensive lab testing, personalized herbal formulas and nutritional counseling. A wellstocked dispensary allows for more individualized care through the formulation of personalized tinctures, blending the feel of a traditional style apothecary with 21st century medicine. In 2021, The Herbal Room expanded to open a satellite location in downtown Darien, where Dr. Antonio Reale, ND, MS sees patients three times weekly by appointment, including Saturdays.

Reale is a licensed naturopathic physician, nutritionist and herbalist, practicing in Glastonbury and Darien. He holds a Doctorate of Naturopathy and a master’s degree in Human Nutrition from the University of Bridgeport. His areas of focus include botanical medicine and clinical nutrition, blending the two disciplines to deliver a patient-centered, multi-faceted approach to treatment. Reale is prepared to combine conventional medicine with centuries-old, traditional botanical herbalism to offer a unique sort of care he believes is the future of 21st century medicine.

As licensed physicians, naturopathic doctors are able to order comprehensive lab work, typically covered by most insurance plans. While Reale treats a variety of conditions, much of his practice is focused on gastrointestinal (digestive) disorders and the treatment of mental health conditions, especially anxiety and panic.

Reale is in-network with most major insurance plans, including Cigna, Anthem BCBS, Oxford, Connecticare and Husky/ Medicaid; HSA plans are also accepted.

For more information, call 475-977-1661 (Darien) or 860-257-7210 (Glastonbury), or visit TheHerbal-Room.com.

New Insights Boutique

NewInsights is committed to nurturing self-awareness and empowerment by offering tools, information and services to help heal and nourish one’s path to spiritual growth. They offer crystals, gemstone jewelry, altar and healing tools, aroma and sound therapy, bohemian accessories, local artists, Zen décor, inspirational gifts and so much more.

In addition to a vast collection of magical and healing products, New Insights hosts practitioners every week including energy healers, astrology, tarot readers, mediumship, Angel communications, Akashic Records and Lenormand readers. Classes and workshops are held in their very own Crystal Healing Room.

The mission of New Insights is to provide an oasis of support for all beings on the journey of cultivating true connection with themselves and the world around them.

“Each of us has a story to tell and each story is important to the whole,” says shop owner, Susan Bucur. “This boutique is meant to be fun, interesting and perhaps add value to your search for truth. We know you will find our space to be a valuable resource of beauty, rejuvenation, guidance and optimism for anyone on the journey of reconnecting to their true nature.”

Location: 111 Church Hill Rd, Ste 2, Sandy Hook. Connect at 203-204-6263, Info@NewInsightsBoutique.com or NewInsightsBoutique.com.

Holistic Healing Manual Therapy

Nikken Wellness with Julie Clark

Ahmed, MS, OTR/L is an Occupational Therapist with a holistic focus and over 15 years of experience. With Holistic Healing Manual Therapy, he provides mobile in-home therapy and treats people with a wide variety of conditions. Utilizing many hands-on techniques during sessions, myofascial release is his main focus.

Qarib

Myofascial release treats pain in more than the physical domain; it also focuses on the mental and emotional aspects. In addition to pain reduction, myofascial release can increase range of motion, strength and positively impact mental health, resulting in an improvement in overall quality of life. Ahmed is certified in treating many neurological conditions like Parkinson’s, stroke, TBI and MS, as well as many orthopedic conditions.

“I consider the body as a complete unit and only care to provide quality, safe and evidence-based treatment. I treat in a gentle manner without making my patients feel rushed during the treatment sessions,” he says.

Ahmed has experience in in-patient acute and subacute, outpatient, home care and long-term care. In addition to treating, Ahmed is an adjunct professor at Sacred Heart University’s Occupational Therapy department. “I love the opportunity to help shape the future of Occupational Therapy,” he says.

For more information, call 203-570-0299, email QaribAhmedTherapy@gmail.com or visit ManualTherapyHealing.com.

Nikken is a research and development company that has invested over 46 years to studying health and how to make our lives better. Through the work of consultants like Julie Clark, MT(ASCP), Nikken accomplishes this by helping people achieve balance with the “5 Pillars of Wellness”: healthy mind, body, family, society and finances. Nikken products make being healthy simple, convenient and affordable.

“I know that Nikken makes a difference in the lives of those who choose Nikken Wellness. I am a retired Medical Technologist who left my hospital ‘sick world job’ to be in the wonderful well world of Nikken,” explains Clark. “My husband and I have been using, loving and benefitting from Nikken for 26 years. Most people are on one of two roads, and I believe in prevention and not prescription. Good health is priceless and prevention is the key.”

Clark’s passion is to help those who are suffering physically or financially to feel better. She teaches about better choices, including organic, grounding, technologies of nature and more. “We create ‘wellness homes’ to give our bodies the environment needed for better health, with products to comfort and support the body for a long, healthy, happy, satisfied, successful life,” she says.

For the best water, Clark recommends the PiMag Waterfall System for purified, structured, mineralized, low-redox, magnetized and alkalinized water. The KenkoAir is a high quality (no ozone) HEPA air purifier, much like the CDC website recommends. She also notes the Magnetic Energy mStride Insoles, MagFlex back magnet and KenkoGround grounding mat. Some wellness products Clark suggests are Jade GreenZymes (nature’s super food) and Immunity, which is made of 14 strains of organic mushrooms in one capsule.

Connect at 203-206-8640, Jimc133@hotmail.com or JulieClark.mynikken.com.

Photo by Pawel Czerwinski on Unsplash

Reiki With Dina

Reiki is a Japanese energy healing technique. The predominate form of reiki practiced throughout the world today is the Usui Reiki, which was created by Dr. Mikao Usui in the early 20th century. It is a complementary or alternative health approach.

Dina Begetis, an Usui Reiki Master in Stamford, is a passionate energy healer with an alternative approach, who is dedicated to helping clients move through a wide range of physical, emotional and spiritual transitions in the most efficient and transformative way possible.

Reiki treatments assist with decreasing and/or eliminating anxiety, stress, depression, insomnia, headaches and migraines, pain, lower blood pressure and more. Reiki energy helps strengthen a person’s own healing abilities. Reiki treatments can also assist clients with manifesting their life’s goals and dreams.

“My treatments are specifically tailored to the needs of each patient to make sure they receive the approach that works best for them,” says Begetis. “Time and again, I have seen the incredible healing power of my treatments. I am able to perform hands-on and virtual Reiki treatments.”

For more information, call 203-952-4871, email Dibeinc@gmail.com or visit ReikiWithDina.com. Location: 1177 High Ridge Rd, Ste 207, Stamford.

Revive Salt Therapy & Wellness

Gail Perrella, M.S. is a Mystic, Quantum Healer, Holist Wellness Advocate, Grief Mentor and HeartHealing Practitioner. She has been holding space for clients to heal for over a decade after she received her master’s in Human Nutrition.

After a profound spiritual awakening after the birth of her daughter, Perrella realized that we cannot solve all of our health issues with diet and supplements alone. That is when she expanded her healing business into a space now known as Revive Salt Therapy, where clients could manage stress and grow their spiritual awareness. All of the services at Revive offer the potent combination of both science and spirituality for healing of our body, mind and spirit.

As a client of personal and spiritual development—always with the mindset “I go first”—she discovered a powerful therapy called HeartHealing. She became a certified practitioner in 2022 and it has quickly become one of her most popular offerings. This transformational therapy heals the heart and childhood wounds that are still holding a person back from reaching their full potential.

“The heart is the most powerful source of electromagnetic energy in the body—60 times greater than the mind! If you have only been focusing on mindset, you are missing a huge opportunity of potential healing by not working with the heart,” says Perrella. HeartHealing is endorsed and certified by the Association of Counselors, Coaches, Psychotherapists and Hypnotherapists. It has also recently been given Level 4 Status, which is the equivalent to a foundation degree.

For more information, call 203-283-5968, email Hello@ReviveSaltTherapy.com or visit ReviveSaltTherapy.com. Location: 374 New Haven Ave, Milford.

Spiritual Guidance with Annaita Gandhy

Annaita Gandhy has served through counseling, teaching and healing for over 20 years in both India and the U.S. Divinely guided with spiritual and energy training and experience, she believes “we are the cause and the effect”. “Past and unknown future only affect us when we give them credence. All is possible through unification of heart and mind. By stripping the many layers of conditioned mind, one awakens to Spirit within,” she says.

Gandhy offers personal counseling, workshops, meditations and classes designed to impart spiritual and universal truths while empowering individuals to harness their Light. Additionally, Gandhy assists clients with personal numerology and/or ray charts that offer insights on one’s chosen path. She hosts healing groups, personal sessions and more.

She hosts a weekly Align With Source spiritual empowerment meeting held via Zoom on Saturdays, from 10:30am to 12:15pm, consisting of a talk, interaction and guided meditation. Email AlignWithSource@gmail.com for an invitation.

Gandhy also offers seasonal series, including “Universal Laws” for adults and “Fabric of Our Universe and You” for young families ages 8 and above. The adult series lasts 20 weeks over Zoom, while the younger counterpart series is comprised of 12 in-person summer sessions. Registration is required for both programs.

For more information, email AlignWithSource@gmail.com or visit AlignWithSource.blogspot.com.

NATURAL LIVING DIRECTORY LISTINGS 2023

This comprehensive resource guide includes community leaders in natural health, green living and personal empowerment. No matter what your vision or mission is for this year, we are certain you will find someone or something in the following pages that inspires and supports your efforts to become healthier and happier.

Here’s to your vibrant 2023!

13TH OCTAVE/LAHOCHI

SOUL HEALING JOURNEY, LLC

Eilis Philpott

Fairfield

203-767-5954

Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com

SoulHealingJourney.com

Eilis is a master healer and teacher certified in numerous modalities, including 13th Octave LaHoChi. She is one of only two people approved to teach this high frequency energy in the U.S. 13thOctave LaHoChi provides healing at a soul level, clearing blocks, obstacles or challenges preventing you from living your life to its fullest potential and achieving your soul mission on the planet. See ad, page 33.

ACUPUNCTURE

SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER

Ken Hoffman, DACM, LAc, Medical Director

31 Old Rte 7, Brookfield 203-740-9300

INM.Center

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

ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE

VINCENT FRASER, CST, CAT, SEP Craniosacral Therapy, Alexander Technique, Somatic Experiencing Greenwich and Norwalk 203-570-2059

Vincent@VincentFraser.com

The Alexander technique invites us to live with the resilient, pain-free bodily sensations we experienced as children. Vincent, a certified teacher for over 20 years, teaches at colleges, music schools, hospitals, and in private practice in Norwalk and Greenwich.

ALL THINGS HEALTH & WELLNESS

SHIRLEY R. BLOETHE

860-989-0033

PassItOnLLC.com

Shirley has the intuitive ability to find just the right referral for anyone looking for health and wellness support. Whether it is a new or existing business owner (or the general public), her extensive resources will likely be a great match for your needs. She also is able to offer low-budget, effective solutions for holistic businesses and practitioners. See ads, pages 21 and 27.

AMPCOIL CENTER

AMPCOIL

Freddie Kimmel, Product Expert 95 Cross Hwy, Redding 833-267-2645

Freddie@AmpCoil.com

AmpCoil.com

Extraordinary Wellness!

AmpCoil is an extraordinary system that delivers sound frequencies through PEMF to harmonize, balance, and support you on your journey to wellness. 90% of AmpCoil’s most active users reported that AmpCoil has been instrumental to their personal wellness, and over 55% reported that they experience relief from symptoms related to Lyme or other chronic conditions.

AYURVEDA

NEERU KAUSHIK, ND, MS ACU, MS, MA Institute for Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Therapies

805 Kings Highway East, Fairfield 203-331-9111

DrKaushik@AyurvedicInstituteCT.com

AyurvedicInstituteCT.com

A combination of Ayurveda and Naturopathy is used to create a unique treatment plan to regain and maintain health. Based on one’s particular body constitution (dosha), a plan may include supplements, diet/ nutrition suggestions, lifestyle management, detoxification, hydrotherapy, 0zone therapy, Panchakarma. See ad, page 31.

Photo by Pawel Czerwinski on Unsplash

BREAST THERMOGRAPHY

ALBA THERMAL IMAGING LLC

Safe, painless early detection

71 East Ave, Ste Q1, 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, non- invasive, FDA registered.

CAREER COACH / HYPNOTIST

THEA LITSIOS

Certified Career Coach

Hypnotist, & Teacher of Active Dreaming

TheaLitsios.com

203-693-1493

I help you clear away subconscious blocks and use intuition to discover your unique gifts. My clients create a meaningful career of their dreams that is Soul Centered. When you are ready to have a career that lights you up, call for a free 60-minute consultation. 12+ years experience helping clients connect to their soul. See ad, page 2.

CHIROPRACTIC / NUTRITION

THE HOMESTEAD FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC & WELLNESS

Dr. Annamarie Nardini, DC & Dr. Matthew Nardini, DC 433 Boston Post Rd, Darien 203-244-8544

Info@TheHomesteadChiropractic.com

TheHomesteadChiropractic.com

Drs. Anna and Matt Nardini are dedicated to helping you reclaim your health. With specialized training for pediatrics and pregnancy, they provide gentle, safe, and effective chiropractic care for the entire family. Drs. Nardini also provide you with personalized nutrition, lifestyle, and exercise recommendations to get you functioning your best!

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY/ ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE

VINCENT FRASER, CST, CAT, SEP Craniosacral Therapy, Alexander Technique, Somatic Experiencing Greenwich and Norwalk 203-570-2059

Vincent@VincentFraser.com

Vincent offers paths to wholeness which lead to resolving pain and trauma, ease of movement in one’s body and life, and a fuller conscious embodiment.

EDUCATION

EMBODY THE SACRED Deana Paqua, MA, LMT Ridgefield and New Milford Deana.Paqua@gmail.com

EmbodyTheSacred.net

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

BRADFORD TILDEN, MM, CMT, UWT 130 Webster Square Rd. Berlin 860-830-5841

Info@CrystalMusicHealing.com

CrystalMusicHealing.com

Courses in Universal White Time (UWT) Healing and Gemstone Healing. This powerful new modality gives us the possibility to direct healing through time and space. Trainings include contact healing, aura clearing, chakra balancing, organ clearing, point balancing, and the laying-on of stones. See ad, page 19.

INSTITUTE FOR HOLISTIC HEALTH STUDIES

Christel Autuori, MA, RDH, E-RYT 200, NBC-HWC Western Connecticut State University 181 White St, Danbury 203-837-8559

AutuoriC@WCSU.edu • WCSU.edu/IHHS

The mission of the Institute for Holistic Health Studies at WCSU is to provide the university and Greater Danbury area with opportunities to explore the multidimensional approach to holistic and integrative health. Programs are offered in person and virtually via the IHHS website: wcsu.edu/ihhs. Please join us!

TWO COYOTES WILDERNESS SCHOOL

P.O. Box 711, Monroe

TwoCoyotes.org

Facebook.com/TwoCoyotes

Instagram.com/TwoCoyotes

Two Coyotes Wilderness School is a non-profit nature mentoring organization that connects people to nature, community, and self. We offer nature-based mentorship programs year-round for all ages, including weekly school day programs, a caregiver and child program, summer camps, and an adult apprenticeship program. See ad, page 25.

END OF LIFE DOULA

AUTHENTIC MATTERS

Julie Blitzer

Julie@AuthenticMatters.net

AuthenticMatters.net

I help people explore and gain peace with matters of life and death. My clients tend to be the terminally ill, and their loved ones, but I also serve thriving people because planning a “good death” reduces fears around dying.

ENERGY HEALING

BETH LEAS

Transformative Healing • Tarot

Virtual and In-Person Sessions

203-856-9566

BethLeas.com

If not now, when? Inspire change on all levels—greater physical ease, emotional freedom, peace of mind and spiritual connection. 30+ years of intuitive healing experience with adults and children of all ages. Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tarot. See ad, page 2.

SOUL HEALING JOURNEY, LLC

Eilis Philpott

Fairfield

203-767-5954

Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com

SoulHealingJourney.com

Eilis is a master healer and teacher certified in numerous modalities as both a practitioner and teacher. She offers soul level healing, clearing any blocks, obstacles and challenges preventing you from living your life to its fullest potential and achieving your soul mission on the planet. See ad, page 33.

ESSENTIAL OILS

WAYNE LEISS, LMT, CAO

49 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel

203-994-1207

Wayne@WayneLeiss.com

WayneLeiss.com

Essential oils address stress reduction, support the natural functioning of body systems and can enhance overall well-being. They are used in topical, internal and aromatic applications. Improve physically, emotionally and spiritually as Wayne teaches you about the benefits and uses of massage with natural and pure dōTERRA Essential Oils. See ad, page 2.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

TAMARA SACHS, MD

Functional Medicine and Integrative Care LLC

15 Bennitt St, New Milford

860-354-3304

TSachsMD.com

GEMSTONE HEALING

BRADFORD TILDEN, MM, CMT, UWT 130 Webster Square Rd. Berlinand via ZOOM 860-830-5841

Info@CrystalMusicHealing.com

CrystalMusicHealing.com

Bradford specializes in Universal White Time energy, sound, and gemstone therapies. He helps people attain inner peace, empowerment, and improved quality of life. Clear your fear and trauma. Get support during spiritual awakenings. Experience wholeness and find your purpose. See ad, page 19.

GRIEF SUPPORT

AUTHENTIC MATTERS

Julie Blitzer

Julie@AuthenticMatters.net

AuthenticMatters.net

HERBAL EDUCATION

TWIN STAR HERBAL EDUCATION

Lupo Passero & Rebekah Sutter

5 Booth House Ln, New Milford 860-717-2785

Info@TwinStarTribe.com

TwinStarTribe.com

Twin Star offers community classes and certificate trainings on Herbalism, Flower Essences, Plant Spirit Healing, Ancestral Healing, Goddess & Herbal Witch Programs. Classes are offered in person in the beautiful hills of Western Connecticut. In addition, Twin Star offers comprehensive and visually stunning online class trainings to enjoy and learn from anywhere in the world. International Herbal Excursions also offered.

HOLISTIC NETWORKING

Using Functional Medicine, Dr. Sachs prevents and treats chronic illnesses by addressing their underlying root causes, remaining respectful of the uniqueness, complexity and intuitions that make us human.

Trained at Mt. Sinai Medical School and Yale University Hospital in Internal Medicine, in 2003 she opened Functional Medicine and Integrative Care LLC. She creates individualized, realistic and comprehensive personalized wellness plans.

FUNCTIONAL NUTRITION COACH

RENEE EDGE

Functional Nutrition Coach

Edge to Health

860-681-3427

Renee@Edgetohealth.com

EdgetoHealth.com

Change your child’s attention, behavior, and mood using food everyone in the family will enjoy. Helping parents make changes to their child’s diet and food choices to bring about healing in their body and brain to promote behavior change.

I support people who have experienced a significant emotional loss (death, divorce, major life change) through a powerful, evidence-based program, The Grief Recovery Method. Over our seven private sessions, clients tend to experience more lightness in their relationship to grief.

HEALING CENTER

TURNING POINT HEALING ARTS & EDUCATION CENTER

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

TurningPointReiki.com/Healing-Arts-Center

TPHA & EC is a central resource for healthy living and wellness in Ridgefield. This vibrant, serene, energetically positive center is home to skilled practitioners and teachers offering holistic services and educational programs to empower and enhance both the individual and community. Reiki, Zero Balancing, Evidential Psychic Mediumship, Shamanic and Cross-Cultural Healing, Astrology, Tarot, Mental Health Counseling and much more.

HEALTH COACH

HEATHER B. HABELKA, NBC-HWC National Board Certified Health Coach Cooking Classes • Culinary Coaching

TheHealthfulKitchen.com

Heather B. Habelka is a National Board Certified Health Coach & Creator of TheHealthfulKitchen. com. Certified in integrative nutrition & holistic health cooking, she creates affordable, simple & healthful recipes and hosts free cooking classes. Visit TheHealthfulKitchen.com to start cooking & support your health!

HOLISTIC COMMUNITY PROFESSIONALS

Shirley R. Bloethe, Executive Director 860-255-8844

HCPinc.ORG@gmail.com

HolisticCommunityProfessionals.org

Holistic Community Professionals is an organization of holistic practitioners and businesses focused on improving health and wellness with products and services throughout New England. We also connect consumers with a wide variety of modalities, holistic products, and services as well as offering two EXPOs a year at The DoubleTree by Hilton in Bristol. See website for details. See ad, page 19.

HYPNOTHERAPY

MICHAEL ROSENBAUM ACHT, MP

Alternative Choices Natural Healing Danbury • Mt Kisco, NY • Remotely 914-589-3601

AlternativeChoices.org

Anxious and worried, again? You deserve to live permanently free from overwhelming stress. Learn to feel calmer, optimistic, and empowered. The power to make lasting change is inside you. Let’s tap into it. Call for free consult.

Photo by Pawel Czerwinski on Unsplash

INTEGRATIVE NATURAL MEDICINE

SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER

Ken Hoffman, DACM, LAc, Medical Director 31 Old Rte 7, Brookfield 203-740-9300

INM.Center

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

INTEGRATIVE OPTOMETRY

EYECARE ASSOCIATES, PC

Dr. Randy Schulman, MS, OD, FCOVD

Dr. Robert Byne • Dr. Allie Decker

Dr. Jason Grygier • Dr. Ken Landesman

Dr. Diana Ngo • Dr. Maryam Nizami

Dr. Justin Rapp • Dr. Sonia Singh

Dr. Magy Tepliz

Locations:

6515 Main St, Trumbull • 203-374-2020

444 Westport Ave, Norwalk • 203-840-1991

2600 Post Rd, Southport • 203-255-4005

1425 Bedford St, 1M, Stamford • 203-357-0204

572 US-6, Mahopac, NY

103 S Bedford Rd, Mount Kisco, NY

CTEyecareAssociates.com

We offer behavioral optometry, comprehensive vision exams, contact lenses and vision therapy. Call to schedule your appointment today.

JOURNEYDANCE

AUTHENTIC MATTERS

Julie Blitzer

Julie@AuthenticMatters.net AuthenticMatters.net

I am a JourneyDance guide. JourneyDance is an exhilarating movement practice that gets people out of their minds and into their bodies. It’s part moving meditation, part dance party. I love sharing JourneyDance at retreats and gatherings of like-minded souls.

LIFE COACHING

CHANNELING YOUR WISDOM COACHING

Lynda Mettler, ACC

Transformation Coach & Reiki Master 203-623-6066

Lynda@YourWisdomCoaching.com

YourWisdomCoaching.com

Channeling Your Wisdom Coaching is a whole-person approach that combines IFS “parts work,” life coaching, meditation and reiki energy to cultivate compassion, heal old wounds, and create meaningful change.

LYME + CO-INFECTIONS

TURNING POINT REIKI LLC

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

TurningPointReiki.com

JoAnn uses intuition, experience and a deep spiritual connection in her Reiki, IET and Reconnective Healing sessions. Specializing in care for individuals with cancer, back pain, Lyme disease and other tick borne illnesses. All Reiki levels taught.

MASSAGE THERAPY

ALEXA DEMILIA, LMT

40 Main St N, Woodbury 203-364-4496

LMTAlexa@gmail.com

LMTAlexa.com

Struggling with chronic pain, overuse injuries, daily stress, or anything in between? Alexa uses a range of techniques including Swedish, Deep Tissue, Myofascial Release, Abdominal Therapy, and Reiki to help you leave feeling better than you arrived while pursuing your long term health goals.

MEDITATION

CENTER FOR MINDFULNESS & INSIGHT MEDITATION

9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding 203-244-3130

ReddingMeditation.org

We teach and practice Mahasati meditation. Mahasati meditation cultivates selfawareness 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.

METAPHYSICAL STORE

THE ANGEL COOPERATIVE

51 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte. 7), Ridgefield 203-431-2959

TheAngelCoop.com

Follow us on Instagram (@shungiteroom) Facebook and YouTube (The Angel Cooperative)

The Angel Cooperative is a unique lifestyle boutique and metaphysical store featuring the first Shungite Room in the USA. Explore a wide selection of crystals, jewelry, candles, essential oils, divination tools, spiritual gifts, statuary, oracle decks and tarot, and home décor. Available in The Shungite Room: private energy sessions, angelic, tarot and oracle card readings, channeling and mediumship, reiki, workshops, aura photography, and guided meditation led by a group of talented and experienced practitioners. Shungite is the only natural material known to contain fullerenes, a naturally occurring antioxidant. Shungite is believed to have active metaphysical properties with strong healing powers.See ad, page 23.

NEW INSIGHTS BOUTIQUE

Metaphysical Boutique and Center for Conscious Living

Susan J. Bucur

111 Church Hill Rd, Ste 2, Sandy Hook 203-204-6263

Info@NewInsightsBoutique.com

NewInsightsBoutique.com

New Insights is committed to cultivating a community rooted in positivity and mindfulness. We offer an extensive variety of tools for spiritual healing and expansion, and a full team of metaphysical practitioners. Visit us and soak in the good vibes!

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN

CONNECTICUT CENTER FOR INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE

Dr. Robert Kachko

Dr. Veena Verma-Dzik

Dr. Paul Epstein 1200 High Ridge Rd, 2nd Flr, Stamford 929-379-0920

Info@CTCIntegrative.com

CTCIntegrative.com

Connecticut Center for Integrative Medicine is a comprehensive holistic health center serving Fairfield and Westchester Counties. Our team of leading Naturopathic Physicians, Acupuncturists, Mental Health experts, and Registered Dieticians can help you achieve long-term, sustainable healing of body and mind.

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN

HEALTHFUL HARMONY

Dr. Amy Wiesner

91 East Ave, Second Floor, Norwalk 203-962-5887

DrAmyWiesner@gmail.com

HealthfulHarmony.com

Dr. Wiesner, practicing for almost 20 years, uses acupuncture, lifestyle medicine, nutritional supplementation and homeopathy to help her patients achieve health and well-being. Infertility, Diabetes, Stress, Pain, Gastrointestinal Symptoms, Allergies, Headaches, Cardiovascular Disease, Lyme Disease, Menstrual Disorders, other imbalances.

NEERU KAUSHIK, ND, MS ACU, MS, MA Institute for Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Therapies

805 Kings Highway East, Fairfield 203-331-9111

DrKaushik@AyurvedicInstituteCT.com

A combination of Ayurveda and Naturopathy is used to create a unique treatment plan to regain and maintain health. Based on one’s particular body constitution (dosha), a plan may include supplements, diet/nutrition suggestions, lifestyle management, detoxification, hydrotherapy, 0zone therapy, Panchakarma. See ad, page 31.

NICOLE KLUGHERS, ND, PHARMD, MSAC

Vis Wellness Center

Rocky Hill & TeleMedicine Statewide (234) 2-ACU-DOC

DrNicoleKlughers.com

Info@DrNicoleKlughers.com

Dr. Nicole Klughers offers comprehensive naturopathic care to restore optimal health and prevent disease. Dr. Nicole’s “health detective” approach identifies the root cause of symptoms and provides all-natural solutions such as personalized nutrition (food as medicine), herbal medicine, nutrient therapies, acupuncture and more. In-depth assessment is often done with detailed testing of vitamins/ minerals, hormones, advanced cardiovascular markers, inflammation, food sensitivities, gut/ microbiome and more. See ad, page 19.

NUTRITION

OFFICE OF DR. MICHAEL WALD

29 King St, 2nd Fl, Chappaqua NY 10514 914-552-1442

Info@BloodDetective.com

DrMichaelWald.com

#BloodDetective

Dr Wald is a holistic DC, Nutritionist, and Dietician whose Blood Detective software, labs and detailed consult help get to the cause(s) of persistent health issues. Conditions include autoimmune, weight loss, anti-aging, cancer, GI issues, depression, and more. See ad, page 7.

POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGY COACH

CONNECT2FLOURISH, LLC

Andrea Garin Kopilak

917-583-3218

Andrea@C2FCoach.com

Connect2FlourishCoaching.com

As the Founder of Connect2Flourish, I use a coaching process grounded in the science of positive psychology and awareness coaching to help empower clients to utilize their strengths, so that they can build resilience, make important connections, and choose what flourishing looks like for them. Explore coaching with a 45-minute complimentary session by emailing Andrea@c2fcoach.com.

PSYCHOTHERAPY

NANCY S. SCHERLONG, LCSW, SEP, PTR/CJT, CM Coaching/Psychotherapy/Consulting 470 Main St, Ridgefield 914-572-3167

WellnessMetaphors.com

Manage stress with relaxation techniques. Rediscover your creativity through writing and the expressive arts. Resolve trauma with EMDR, IFS or SE. Or book an experiential workshop! Nancy has over 20 years of experience with children, families, groups, adults and corporate wellness programs. See ad, page 21.

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.

JOYFUL LIVING REIKI LLC

Gail Christie, Holy Fire Reiki Master Stamford and Mt Kisco, NY 203-979-0918

JoyfulLivingReiki.com

Gail will help balance your energy and help you reach a whole new level of healing with Holy Fire Reiki. She offers gently powerful Holy Fire healing sessions, Reiki-infused meditations and Usui/Holy Fire and Karuna Reiki certification classes. See ad, page 2.

REIKI WILL TRAVEL LLC

Cheryl Benanti, Reiki Master, Life Coach Throughout Connecticut 860-966-0121

ReikiWillTravel@gmail.com

ReikiWillTravel.com

Reiki Will Travel LLC is a mobile service offering reiki in your home, at your business or special events. Office space is also available. Cheryl provides in-person and over the phone tarot readings as well as small group tarot events. Group reiki, horse reiki and life coaching are also available.

REIKI WITH DINA

1177 High Ridge Rd, Ste 207, Stamford 203-952-4871

Dibeinc@gmail.com

ReikiWithDina.com

I’m a passionate energy healer (hands-on & distance healing) with an alternative approach and am dedicated to helping my clients move through a wide range of physical, emotional and spiritual transitions in the most efficient and transformative way possible.

Photo by Pawel Czerwinski on Unsplash

TURNING POINT REIKI LLC

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

TurningPointReiki.com

JoAnn uses intuition, experience and a deep spiritual connection in her Reiki, IET and Reconnective Healing sessions. Specializing in care for individuals with cancer, back pain, Lyme disease and other tick borne illnesses. All Reiki levels taught.

WORTHY CHANGES LLC

Melissa Michaud-Maltese

45 Evans Rd, Office 16b, Rocky Hill 860-322-6866

Worthy.Changes2020@gmail.com

WorthyChangesLLC.com

Worthy Changes was founded on the belief that people require assistance emotionally, spiritually, professionally and even physically. Drawing upon both psychic and holistic abilities, modalities include Reiki, spiritual guidance for people to advance forward, mindfulness and team building activities.

SALT HEALING THERAPY WELLNESS CENTER

REVIVE SALT THERAPY & WELLNESS

374 New Haven Ave, Milford 203-283-5968

Hello@ReviveSaltTherapy.com

ReviveSaltTherapy.com

A Holistic Healing Spa for Body, Mind, and Soul. We offer Halotherapy/Salt Therapy, Infrared Sauna, Reiki, Quantum Healing, Massage Therapy, Sound Healing, Yoga, and Wellness plus a Crystal Shop. We offer unique and potent products and services to accelerate physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual healing.

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.

SOMATIC EXPERIENCING

VINCENT FRASER, CST, CAT, SEP Craniosacral Therapy, Alexander Technique, Somatic Experiencing Greenwich and Norwalk 203-570-2059

Vincent@VincentFraser.com

Somatic Experiencing is a process of resolving trauma in one’s body through healing the nervous system and restoring its full range of responses. It is then no longer stuck in “fight, flight, freeze or collapse,” but able to adapt to each situation we face.

SOUND HEALING

HUMMINGBIRD SOUND YOGA LLC

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares Merryall, New Milford 860-946-9470

BSoares@LightOfTheNewMoon.com

heal.me/HummingbirdSoundYoga

Facebook @HummingbirdSoundYoga

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares, MA, CYT, is a sound yoga and vocal yoga teacher, blues/jazz singer, and Reiki master, certified in several modalities of energy and sound healing. She offers Hummingbird Sound Yoga and sound healing immersions for groups and private sessions. Using earth, dance and symphonic gongs, bowls, tuning forks and humming-for-health meditations, her goal is to help individuals experience becoming “one with sound” to promote a deep relaxation response that balances energy and encourages healing. See ad, page 26.

SPIRITUAL HEALING

BRADFORD TILDEN, MM, CMT, UWT 130 Webster Square Rd. Berlinand via ZOOM 860-830-5841

Info@CrystalMusicHealing.com

CrystalMusicHealing.com

Bradford specializes in Universal White Time energy, sound, and gemstone therapies. He helps people attain inner peace, empowerment, and improved quality of life. Clear your fear and trauma. Get support during spiritual awakenings. Experience wholeness and find your purpose. See ad, page 19.

BETH LEAS

TAROT

Transformative Healing • Tarot

Virtual and In-Person

203-856-9566

BethLeas.com

What’s in the cards for you?

Tarot is a powerful tool for guidance and will empower you to make your best choices. Gain insight to your most thoughtful questions. The answers you receive will illuminate your path, making visible your challenges and ways to overcome them. See ad, page 2.

THERMOGRAPHY

SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER

Ken Hoffman, DACM, LAc, Medical Director 31 Old Rte 7, Brookfield 203-740-9300

INM.Center

Women’s Health: hormonal balancing, breast cancer prevention. Breast and full body thermography screening. Screening and treatment of chronic inflammation using medical infrared thermography (MIT). Safe, painless and non-invasive, thermography can detect early changes in breast tissue up to eight years before a mammogram. FDA-registered, our high-definition camera is the most advanced in the region.

TRANSFORMATIVE HEALING

KATIE AUGUSTYN, MA, CPC

Transformation Coach, Shamanic Healer

203-820-3800

TransformationCenterCT@gmail.com

TransformationCenterCT.com

Katie will assist you in reaching your true potential and heal what has been holding you back. You will experience real self-acceptance and start to live in alignment with who you truly are so you can create a life you love, a life of meaning and purpose. See ad, page 2.

BETH LEAS

Transformative Healing • Tarot

Virtual and In-Person Sessions

203-856-9566

BethLeas.com

If not now, when? Inspire change on all levels—greater physical ease, emotional freedom, peace of mind and spiritual connection. 30+ years of intuitive healing experience with adults and children of all ages. Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tarot. See ad, page 2.

TRANSFORMATIVE HEALING

NICOLE MIALE, MA

Energy Work • Coaching •Writing 203-981-2451

NMiale@charter.net

Nicole has personal experience with severe and chronic illness; she understands the amazing ability humans have to self-correct and heal if we accept the challenges. Through coaching, energy work, and other techniques, she supports clients exploring spirituality and health in search of optimal wellness. Nicole also runs writing and creativity groups; in-person and remote sessions available for all services. Located in Litchfield County. See ad, page 27.

SOUL HEALING JOURNEY, LLC

Eilis Philpott

Fairfield

203-767-5954

Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com

SoulHealingJourney.com

Eilis is a master healer and teacher certified in numerous modalities as both a practitioner and teacher. She offers soul level healing, clearing any blocks, obstacles and challenges preventing you from living your life to its fullest potential and achieving your soul mission on the planet. See ad, page 33.

TRANSITIONS COACHING

ASPIRE, LLC

Amy Jacques, CPC, ELI-MP, CLDS, CTDS 19 Main St, Ste 3, New Milford 860-222-0797

Amy@AspireSelf.com

AspireSelf.com

TRAVEL AGENCY

CRUISE PLANNERSTHE TRAVELING BUDDIES, LLC

860-573-3199

Chris.Bafumo@CruisePlanners.com

TheTravelingBuddies.com

This is a full service travel agency. I will help you discover exciting adventures around the world. From cruises to land tours to completely packaged vacations, I will create an unforgettable vacation just for you, your family and/or friends.

VOICE & SOUND COACHING

HUMMINGBIRD SOUND YOGA LLC

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares

Merryall, New Milford 860-946-9470

BSoares@LightOfTheNewMoon.com

heal.me/HummingbirdSoundYoga

Facebook @HummingbirdSoundYoga

Improve your voice, expand your range, find your ‘goldilocks’ note using soul singing, improvisation and ‘one with sound’ exercises. Learn from a certified vocal yoga teacher, sound healer and experienced performer who has studied with Bobby Mcferrin, Silvia Nakkach and Heather Lyle. Some of her music can be found at http://www.wisefishworld.com. Online Zoom groups and one on one sessions starting in May. https://heal.me/HummingbirdSoundYoga. See ad, page 26.

WELLNESS CENTER

THE ANGEL WING, A DIVINE SPIRITUAL CENTER

Located next door to The Angel Cooperative

CHALLENGING MINDS

WELLNESS CENTER

Owners Andrew Matusiak, LCSW & Melissa Hurley, LCSW

30 Peck Rd, Suite 1202, Torrington (Group Practice)

896 Bantam Rd, Bantam (Wellness Center)

860-361-6204

AndrewM@ChallengingMinds.net

ChallengingMinds.com

Challenging Minds Wellness

Center believes in treating the whole person through offering holistic service options, including: Reiki, massage, reflexology, yoga, meditation, breathwork and an Infrared Sauna. Challenging Minds also offers mental health counseling, for both groups and individuals.

HAUTE HEALING OASIS

Jessica & Peter Chichester

792 Pacific St, Stamford

203-595-5304

Info@HauteHealingOasis.com

HauteHealingOasis.com

HHO is your feel-great place! A 3,500-square-foot wellness spa and healing center featuring over a dozen wellness services in a caring feng shui inspired atmosphere. If you need relaxation, detoxification, body contouring or rehabilitation services, then you should check them out.

See ad, page 17.

SALT CAVE OF DARIEN

555 Post Rd, Darien

203-658-7667

Info@SaltCaveofDarien.com

SaltCaveofDarien.com

Aspire, LLC. offers a safe, judgment-free space for adults and teens to work through life transitions, build confidence, find empowerment, or learn how their attitudes and perceptions shape their lives. A higher level of consciousness and consistent joy awaits you!

49 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte. 7), Ridgefield 203-431-2959

TheAngelCoop.com

Follow us on Instagram (@shungiteroom)

Facebook and YouTube (The Angel Cooperative)

The Angel Wing hosts workshops, retreats, group and private readings, energy work sessions, Reiki, massage, cosmic facials, sound healing and gong baths, group guided meditations, acupuncture, and a wide selection of yoga classes (vinyasa, gentle, yin with sound bath, kundalini with gong bath, restorative with sound bath, restorative with tarot, and flow and restore with guided meditation). We also offer myriad certification courses: Crystal Healing, Meditation Levels I and II, Reiki I, II, and Master, Karuna, and Foundations of Sound Healing Levels 1 and II. See ad, page 23.

Our wellness destination offers an oasis of peace, calm and serenity. Whether you want to release stress, address a health challenge, or gather with friends and family, the Cave is inviting, warm and soothing. Check out our website for the many different ways to experience the benefits of our healing salt! See ad, page 2.

Photo by Pawel Czerwinski on Unsplash

YOGA

THE ANGEL WING, A DIVINE SPIRITUAL CENTER

Located next door to The Angel Cooperative

49 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte. 7), Ridgefield 203-431-2959

TheAngelCoop.com

Follow us on Instagram (@shungiteroom)

Facebook and YouTube (The Angel Cooperative)

The Angel Cooperative offers a variety of yoga classes at The Angel Wing, our divine spiritual center next door. Class options include vinyasa, gentle, yin with sound bath, kundalini with gong bath, restorative with sound bath, restorative with tarot, and flow and restore with guided meditation as well as yoga workshops such as Introduction to Yoga, Aromayoga, and Yoga for Spiritual Awakening. The yoga teachers who teach at our spiritual center hold true that yoga is for all people, all bodies. We all belong.See ad, page 23.

HUMMINGBIRD SOUND YOGA LLC

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares

Merryall, New Milford 860-946-9470

BSoares@LightOfTheNewMoon.com

heal.me/HummingbirdSoundYoga

Facebook @HummingbirdSoundYoga

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares, MA, CYT, is a sound yoga and vocal yoga teacher, blues/jazz singer, and Reiki master, certified in several modalities of energy and sound healing. She offers Hummingbird Sound Yoga and sound healing immersions for groups and private sessions. Her goal is to help individuals experience becoming “one with sound” to promote a deep relaxation response that balances energy and encourages healing. See ad, page 26.

YOGA STUDIO & WELLNESS CENTER

YOGA FOR EVERYBODY

Ingrid Prueher

85 Mill Plain Rd, 3rd Flr, Fairfield 203-254-YOGA (9642)

Info@Yoga4Everybody.net

Yoga4Everybody.net

A serene yoga studio placed in the heart of downtown Fairfield at the Sportsplex where you can experience yoga, meditation, and aerial classes in-person, online or via video-on-demand. There are also a variety of workshops and trainings that you can attend: Drum Circles, Gong, Reiki Trainings, Wim Hof Method and Yoga Teacher Training in the heart of Fairfield, CT. Also available: Thermography, Reiki, Massage Therapy, Craniosacral Therapy, Tarot, and Shamanic Therapy private sessions. See ad, page 2.

calendar of events

TUESDAY, MAY 2

Vocal Toning Circle – 7-8:30pm. In this monthly healing circle, clear your body, mind and aura of stress and unwanted energy by toning with crystal bowls. Send focused healing and create a geometric sonic vortex of sound for joy and healing. Bring a crystal bowl or one will be provided. $30. The Center For Higher Living, 130 Webster Square Rd, Berlin. RSVP to Bradford: 860-830-5841, Info@CrystalMusicHealing.com. 860-707-6210. tinyurl.com/May2023ToningCircle.

THURSDAY, MAY 4

Rebirthing Breathwork Monthly Group –7-9pm. Monthly beginning 5/4. Come to some or all. During this group breathing session, you will learn how to use your breath to feel better and connect to your inner strength and resilience. Bring something to lie on, a pillow and blanket. $35. Sticks and Stones Farm, 197 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown. SoulHealingJourney.com.

FRIDAY, MAY 5

DBT Skills Group – 3-4pm. DBT Skills group is a 6-month commitment to weekly meetings dedicated to learning and practicing the 4 Modules of Dialectical Behavior Therapy. Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation and Interpersonal Effectiveness. Most insurance accepted. $40. Wolf Spirit Wellness and Counseling Center, LLC, 670 Main St, Ste B2, Woodbury. 203-263-3793. WolfSpiritWellness.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 6

Sacral Sound Healing – 11am-12:30pm. Join us for a transformative and empowering Womb Blessing and Sacral Chakra Healing event that is open to women, girls, mothers, daughters, and men. In this unique event, you will experience a variety of holistic healing practices to awaken and balance your feminine energy. $40. Haute Healing Oasis, 792 Pacific St, Stamford. 203-595-5304. HauteHealingOasis.com.

The Luminous Energy Field – 1:30-3:30pm. Discover how your energy body, aura and chakras are responsible for self-healing. Chakras are subtle energy centers that correspond with our physical anatomy. $39. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Yogaspace-CT.com.

How to Work with the Universe

class will help you learn how the universe is speak ing to you all the time to help you to grow and heal. There are signs, messages and synchronicities to help you find purpose. $44. The Red Barn in Durham, 352 Main St, Durham. 860-358-9195. TheRedBarnInDurham.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 11

Shamanic Sound Healing Meditation – 6-7pm. With Bradford Tilden. Relax, recharge and release stress and unwanted energies from your body, mind and field. Bring a blanket, chair or yoga mat. Walk-ins welcome. $20-$35. The Bridge Healing Arts Center, 304 Main St, Farmington. 860-4042578. Register: tinyurl.com/BridgeSoundBrad. BridgeHAC.com.

QiGong & Breathwork – 6:30-7:30pm. Join us for our Qigong Event, a transformative and rejuvenating practice that combines movement, meditation, and breathwork to promote health, vitality, and inner peace. Please wear comfortable clothing, bring a water bottle, and an open mind. $30. Haute Healing Oasis, 792 Pacific St, Stamford. 203-595-5304. HauteHealingOasis.com.

Holy Fire Reiki Circle – 7-8pm. Online via Zoom with Gail Christie. Join us to release anxiety and connect to peace and joy with a Holy Fire meditation and shared Reiki. Free. No experience needed. Sign up by 5pm on 5/11 for logon link. Joyful Living Reiki. 203-979-0918. GailChristieReiki.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 13

Breathwork & Journaling Workshop – 10am12pm. Participate in Manifestation Journaling and embody your highest self, de-stress, and generate more energy with the practice of transformational breathwork. $44. Haute Healing Oasis, 792 Pacific St, Stamford. 203-595-5304. HauteHealingOasis.com.

SUNDAY, MAY 14

Holy Fire Reiki 1 Certification Training – 10am5:30pm. In-person with Gail Christie, Holy Fire Usui, Karuna and World Peace Reiki Master. Learn the techniques for releasing stress, balancing your own energy and sharing Reiki with others. Included are an attunement to Reiki 1 energy, an ICRT manual, course materials and a certificate. Register on website by 5/7. Joyful Living Reiki, LLC, 55 Three Lakes Dr, Stamford. 203-979-0918. GailChristieReiki.com.

calendar of events

TUESDAY, MAY 16

Monthly White Time Healing Circle - 7-9pm. Facilitated by Bradford Tilden. Round-robin style healing circle featuring White Time Energy and Gemstone healing. April featured gemstone layout is “Balancing the Body Flows”. $30. The Center for Higher Living 130 Webster Square Rd, Berlin. RSVP: 860-830-5841, Info@CrystalMusicHealing. com. Tinyurl.com/WhiteTimeCircle

SATURDAY, MAY 20

13th Octave LaHoChi In-person Training: Levels 1 & 2 – 5/19: 6-9pm; 5/20 & 5/21: 10:30am-6pm. With Eilis Philpott, one of two teachers approved by Linda Dillon and the Council of Love to teach the 13th Octave LaHoChi. 13th Octave LaHoChi is the next step in energy healing—it is a quantum leap available now to the healers and people of Nova Earth. Sticks and Stones Farm, 197 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown. SoulHealingJourney.com.

Tantra Yoga Practice – 10:30am-12pm. With Jessica. Join us for an exquisite and transformative Tantra Yoga Practice, where we will explore the union of breath, movement, and meditation. $55. Haute Healing Oasis, 792 Pacific St, Stamford. 203-595-5304. Jessica@HauteHealingOasis.com. HauteHealingOasis.com.

Functional Yoga for Athletes – 12-3pm. Whether you run, hike, dance, compete in sports, or exercise regularly, this workshop will help you achieve a balanced body and a calm mind through mindful movement. No matter what your fitness level, you’ll find this workshop to be a valuable tool in your athletic journey. $59. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Yogaspace-CT.com.

Reiki and Guided Meditation – 1-2pm. Online with Gail Christie. Join us to release stress and restore balance and joy with a Holy Fire Reiki meditation and shared Reiki. No experience needed. All are welcome. Free. Sign up by 11am on 5/20 for Zoom link. Joyful Living Reiki. 203-979-0918. GailChristieReiki.com.

SUNDAY, MAY 21

Holy Fire Reiki 2 Certification Training – 10am5:30pm. In person, with Gail Christie, Holy Fire Usui, Karuna and World Peace Reiki Master. Deepen your connection to Reiki, learn the Level 2 symbols and practice giving a complete Reiki session. Receive a Reiki 2 attunement, manual, course materials and a certificate. $275. Register on website by 5/7. Joyful Living Reiki, Three Lakes Dr, Stamford. 203-979-0918. GailChristieReiki.com. 203-979-0918. GailChristieReiki.com.

Reiki Master Certification Course – 10am. Learn how to give Reiki to groups of people and lead Reiki meditation circles. Includes manual, a vegan lunch, attunement, Reiki Master Certificate and a Selenite lamp to represent your expansion of light. $420. Grow Wellness, 901 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. GrowWellnessTherapy.com.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 24

Boundaries & Protection – 6:30-9pm. During our time together online we will look at what Boundaries and Protection are, why we need them and why they are particularly important if you are empathic/sensitive and/or work in the healing arts. $50. SoulHealingJourney.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 25

Shamanic Sound Healing Meditation – 6-7pm. With Bradford Tilden. Relax, recharge and release stress and unwanted energies from your body, mind and field. Bring a blanket, chair or yoga mat. Walk-ins welcome. $20-$35. The Bridge Healing Arts Center, 304 Main St, Farmington. 860-4042578. Register: tinyurl.com/BridgeSoundBrad. BridgeHAC.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 27

Glow In the Dark Women’s Buti Yoga Workshop – 6:30-8pm. Get in tune with your bodies, embrace your divine feminine. We will have glow in the dark body paint, black lights, dancing, music, fun, and so much more... Grow Wellness, 901 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. GrowWellnessTherapy.com.

TUESDAY, MAY 30

Heaven Now: Group Reading – 6-8pm. With Jeanne Street, Spiritual Medium and Healer. Profound messages from departed souls, guidance and healing energy from God. Each attendee will receive personal messages from departed loved ones, supportive guidance and healing energy from Heaven. $111. Haute Healing Oasis, 792 Pacific St, Stamford. 203-595-5304. HauteHealingOasis.com.

SATURDAY, JUNE 3

Demystifying the Bandhas with Karen Pierce –1:30-3:30pm. Bandhas in yoga are the intelligent cooperation of muscles that create energetic valves. Being conscious of these Bandhas throughout yoga class can help you deepen your practice, contain your energy, and provide new found benefits. $39. Special Offer bring a friend for free. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Yogaspace-CT.com.

SATURDAY JUNE 10

Universal White Time Gemstone Healing Level 1 – 6/10: 9am-6:30pm; 6/11: 11am-6:30pm. Learn to heal yourself, others, animals and the environment with the rare and ancient knowledge. Receive an initiation and certification as a Level 1 UWT Gemstone Healing Practitioner. $475 Pre-registration required. The Center for Higher Living, 130 Webster Square Rd. Berlin. Contact Bradford: 860-830-5841, Info@CrystalMusicHealing.com.

ongoing events

sunday

Online Meditation Practice Session – 10-11am. Online meditation practice sessions and Dharma talks using Zoom. All levels welcome. No formal charge. By donation. Center for Mindfulness & Insight Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

monday

Yoga with Leah – 8:30-9:30am. Fragrance free class. 60-minutes of mindful movement. Incorporate twists to detoxify and hip-openers to release before ending in a meditative shavasana, leaving the mat more energized and aligned. First class free, use code LEAH. $25. The Angel Wing, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com.

Hatha Yoga with Melissa – 12:30-1:30pm and 4:305:30pm. $25. The Angel Wing, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com.

tuesday

Yoga Pump with Lea Grimaldi – 8-9am. Yoga Pump combines traditional yoga poses with pop music and the optional addition of ankle weights, free weights, and resistance bands. Fun and inspiring music adds to the Yoga Pump experience. $25. The Angel Wing, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com.

markyourcalendar

ALBERTSON MEMORIAL CHURCH

ALL WORKSHOPS ARE VIRTUAL

WHAT IS SPIRITUALISM

Sunday, May 7 • 1-2pm

SPIRITUAL MEDIUMSHIP COURSE with Rev. Liz Hoy and Rev. Kathleen James

Mondays, May 15, 22 & June 5, 12, 19 7-9pm • $100 for 5-week Modules

Small classes – Contact us for details

ONGOING EVENTS

WEEKLY SERVICE

Every Sunday

Gentle Yoga with Christy – 9:30-10:30am. Flow through gentle sequences that invoke the energy of the gods/goddesses). This class offers the benefits of a yoga practice while being conscious of injury and limitations. First class free, use code CHRISTY. $25. The Angel Wing, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com.

Vinyasa Yoga with Kailey – 6-7pm. Join Kailey for vinyasa to quiet the mind and awaken your inner spirituality. Your first class is free, use code KAILEY. $25. The Angel Wing, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com

wednesday

Kundalini RISE Class at NAAD Center – 9-10am. Taught by NAAD Founder Catherine Polisi Jones draws from ancient technologies and practices. All levels and ages are welcome. Please bring a water bottle and wear workout or yoga clothing. Yoga mats, meditation cushions and yoga blocks are available at the center. $45/per person. NAAD Center, 62 Woodbine Way, Stamford. 929-255-4362. NAADCenter.com. Yoga with Leah – 4:30-5:30pm. Fragrance free class. 60-minutes of mindful movement. Incorporate twists to detoxify and hip-openers to release before ending in a meditative shavasana, leaving the mat more energized and aligned. First class free, use code LEAH. $25. The Angel Wing, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com.

Restorative Yoga with Tarot with Lisa Tancredi – 4:30-5:30pm & 6:30-7:45pm. Last Wednesday. Come for a unique combination of restorative yoga and tarot cards. You will experience the healing benefits of restorative yoga. $25. The Angel Wing, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rt 7), Ridgefield. 203-4312959. TheAngelCoop.com.

Purple Lotus Womens Group (21+) – 5-6pm. A therapeutic support group for women geared toward personal growth. Group is held in person on telehealth. Most insurance accepted. $40. Wolf Spirit Wellness and Counseling Center, LLC, 670 Main St, Ste B2, Woodbury. 203-263-3793. WolfSpiritWellness.org.

Finding Your Voice – 7-8pm. Every other Wednesday. This is a therapeutic group for survivors of sexual assault. Via telehealth. Most insurances are accepted. $40. Seating is Limited. Wolf Spirit Wellness and Counseling Center, LLC, 670 Main St, St B2, Woodbury. 203-263-3793. WolfSpiritWellness.org.

Online Meditation Practice Session – 7-8pm. Online meditation practice sessions and Dharma talks using Zoom. All levels welcome. No formal charge. By donation. Center for Mindfulness & Insight Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

Mysticism: Where Science, Art and Religion Meet –7-8:30pm. What is the purpose of life? Our intent is to address these issues through lectures, readings and guided group discussions. We will present ancient concepts, cutting-edge theories, speculations, assertions, data, and most of all, thought-provoking ideas for discussion. Free. Aleph Talks, 606 Post Rd East, Ste 667, Westport. AlephTalks.com.

thursday

Sound Yoga (Online) – 11am-12pm. With Barbara Soares, yoga/vocal yoga teacher and Reiki Master will help students explore the power of sound to relax, inspire, and listen deeply. Learn and practice humming, deep listening, and medicine melodies to improve wellness and reduce stress. Students should bring a yoga mat and wear loose, comfortable clothes. $50/5 sessions. Tinyurl.com/SoundYogaBobbi.

Virtual Kundalini Yoga with Gong Bath with Stephen – 1:15-2:15pm. With Stephen Earnhart. Must register at least 1-hour before to receive link. Book this meditation and sound journey will help your mind release its torrent of thoughts so you can relax, release and regenerate. This allows the nervous system to naturally relax and reset. Headphone/earbuds strongly encouraged. $13. TheAngelCoop.com.

Salty Yin Yoga with Kelly Warters – 6:30-7:30pm. Second Thursday. Join Kelly Warters for this 8 part Chakra Yin Yoga Series. You may attend one of the classes or sign up for all 8 for maximum healing benefits + a discount. $37.22. Revive Salt Therapy & Wellness, 374 New Haven Ave, Milford. 203-283-5968. ReviveSaltTherapy.as.me.

friday

Reiki 1st Degree Workshop: Online or In-Person – 10am-5pm. First Friday. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher (24 years). Learn Reiki 1st Level (Western Style). Learn how to use Reiki for healing. Two manuals and certificate included. Zoom link will be given with e-mail and payment. Please call to register. Also held on the first Saturday. No drop-ins. $135. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReiki.com.

A Queer Experience (18-30) – 6-7pm. Open ongoing in person group. A supportive psychotherapy group primarily for individuals from 18 to 30 years of age to discuss the experiences and challenges of being a part of the queer community. Call for pricing. Wolf Spirit Wellness and Counseling Center, LLC, 670 Main St, Ste B2, Woodbury. 203-2633793. WolfSpiritWellness.org.

Friday Night Fun Networking at Yoga for Everybody – 6:30-8pm. First Friday. With Beth Leas of Tribe TLC. Each month will feature a fun activity designed to enhance getting to know one another in interesting ways and nurture our community. RSVP to Beth Leas at 203-856-9566 (call/text) or TLCBethLeas@gmail.com. Free. Yoga for Everybody, 85 Mill Plain Rd, 3rd Floor, Fairfield. 203-254-9642. TLCBethLeas@gmail.com. Yoga4Everybody.net.

Monthly Yoga Mom’s Night Out – 7-9pm. Second Friday. Join us for an evening that’s all about reclaiming you time. Calm your mind and body with candlelight yoga, a few other experiences. Space is limited to 16 moms, so please pre-register. $40. Come with a friend and get a special gift. $40. Yoga for Everybody, 85 Mill Plain Rd, 3rd Floor, Fairfield. 203-254-9642. Yoga4Everybody.net.

saturday

Saturday Dharma and Morning Meditation – 7:308:15am. Discuss various works on topics such as selfstudy, meditation, self-improvement, mindfulness, joy and much more. Discussion will be followed by 30-minute guided meditation. Proceeds donated to our charity of the month. $10/cash. Yoga Culture, 105 Mill Plain Rd, Danbury. 203-730-0250. WeAreYogaCulture.com.

Kundalini Yoga with Gong Bath with Stephen – 9-10:30am. Kundalini Yoga is an empowering, holistic practice that synchronizes physical postures, breathwork, meditation, and sound (mantra) to align your body, mind and spirit. All levels are welcome. $25. The Angel Wing, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com.

Align with Source – 10:30am-12:15pm. A Spiritual Empowerment meeting via Zoom. Comprises a talk, inter-action and a guided meditation. Request Zoom invite by emailing AlignWithSource@gmail. com. By donation.

In-Person Meditation Practice Session – 10-11:30am. Limited in-person meditation practice. All levels welcome. If it’s your first time, please let someone know so that we can provide a brief introduction. Must register online. Donations encouraged. Center for Mindfulness & Insight Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

Reiki Second Degree Workshop: Online or In-Person – 10am-5pm. Fifth Saturday. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher (24 years). Learn Reiki Level 2 (Western Style). Learn how to send reiki distance healing, deepen your use of Reiki for yourself and others and more. Two manuals and certificate included. Also held on the last Friday. No drop-ins. $225. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReiki.com.

Finding Your Voice – 1-2pm. Every other Saturday. This is a therapeutic group for survivors of sexual assault. In-person. Most insurances are accepted. $40. Seating is Limited. Wolf Spirit Wellness and Counseling Center, LLC, 670 Main St, St B2, Woodbury. 203-263-3793. WolfSpiritWellness.org.

Eyesofwings Soulcial in the Garden – 1-5pm. Our mission is to provide accessible and reasonably priced Healing Arts services and products to facilitate people in their self-healing. $22. Carmelina’s Garden, 172 Welton St, Hamden. 203-589-4614. Eyesofwings.live.

Vinyasa Yoga with Kailey – 5-6pm. Join Kailey on for vinyasa to quiet the mind and awaken your inner spirituality. First class is free, use code KAILEY. $25. The Angel Wing, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com.

No matter how chaotic it is, wildflowers will still spring up in the middle of nowhere.

~Sheryl Crow