H E A L T H Y
L I V I N G
H E A L T H Y
P L A N E T
feel good • live simply • laugh more
FREE
Compassionate Activism The Heartbeat of Change
Food Artisans Next Door Homemade Delicacies from Neighbors
Rediscovering Chinese Medicine An Ancient System Heals Modern Woes
October 2015 | Fairfield County Edition | eNaturalAwakenings.com eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
1
The Natural Choice – The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center
Optimize Your Smile and Your Health! Whole-Body Dentistry® provides comprehensive oral health care using traditional and holistic approaches. We understand the “mouth-body connection.” Mark A. Breiner, DDS
Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry Fellow of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology Speaker and best-selling author of Whole-Body Dentistry®
Mercury-free for over 30 years, Dr. Breiner is a pioneer and recognized authority in the field of biological and holistic dentistry.
WholeBodyDentistry.com 203-371-0300
501 Kings Highway East, Suite 108, Fairfield CT
Doesn’t it make sense to see the authority?
The Natural Choice – The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center Caring Naturopathic Physicians Offering the Best in Holistic Healing
Our integrative approach treats a widerange of conditions including: ADD/ADHD Allergies Anxiety & Depression Autism Brain Injuries Candidiasis Chronic Fatigue (or Fatigue Concerns) Difficulty Concentrating Female Concerns Fibromaylgia
Gastrointestinal Concerns Healthy Aging Hormonal Issues Immune Disorders Lyme Disease RSD Sports Injuries Stress-related Symptoms Thyroid & Adrenal Issues Toxicities Weight Gain
Learn more about our approach. Watch our new therapy videos – all on our website!
We can help you get your health back in balance naturally with proven treatments and therapies:
From left to right:
Dr. Adam Breiner, ND, Director Dr. Elena Sokolova, MD, ND & Dr. David M. Brady, ND, CCN, DACBN
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) EEG Neurofeedback Acupuncture Chinese Medicine Homeopathy Energy Medicine Electrodermal Screening Metabolic Typing
WholeBodyMed.com 203-371-8258
Functional Medicine Colon Hydrotherapy Natural Hormone Therapy Herbal Medicine Nutritional Assessment Allergy Desensitization FDA-cleared Phototherapy Detoxification Abdominal Manual Therapy
FREE CDs on our Whole-Body approach to Lyme Disease. Call now for details.
501 Kings Highway East, Suite 108, Fairfield CT
2
Whole-Body Medicine, LLC – The Natural Approach for Optimal Health Fairfield County Edition
natural awakenings
The Wisdom of Integrative Natural Medicine
A New Development in Healthcare that Blends Chinese & Naturopathic Medicine into a System that Works. Having delivered over 30,000 treatments, we find the majority of patients come to us when nothing else has worked. Using our customized diagnostic treatment methods, our patients get results!
Left to right: Craig Pannone, ND, Naturopathic Physician Bruce Roff, L.Ac., LMT, Senior Associate Ken Hoffman, D.Ac., (RI), L.Ac., CCH, Medical Director
Visit our website for a full explanation of our medical system at: www.inm.center
Call 203-740-9300 to receive a no-cost consultation. We will assess your health and develop a strategy to help you! SOPHIA Natural Health Center • 31 Old Route 7 • Brookfield, CT 06804 eNaturalAwakenings.com 203-740-9300 • www.inm.center • Most Insurance Accepted October 2015
3
letterfrompublisher
“W
ith health politics raising more questions than answers and with technology changing the healthcare landscape, there’s never been a more ripe time for health innovation and accelerating a shift toward what works for most doctors.” – James Maskell of the Evolution of Medicine Functional Forum (page 33)
contact us Publisher/Executive Editor Nicole Miale Editor Ariana Rawls Fine Design & Production Kathleen Fellows Erica Mills Contributing Writers Sheri Hatfield Mary Oquendo Community Street Team Slyms Bazile Leslie McLean Sales & Marketing Nicole Miale Virginia Trinque Distribution Man in Motion LLC
Natural Awakenings Fairfield County 54 Danbury Rd, Ste 323 Ridgefield, CT 06877 Phone: 203-885-4674 Fax: 203-516-2392 NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com eNaturalAwakenings.com NAWebstore.com NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com © 2015 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.
Natural Awakenings was founded more than 20 years ago in response to a need for information and education not being covered by the mainstream media. A whole segment of the community was lacking a voice and forum to exchange ideas designed to elevate and transform relationNicole Miale ships, the environment and health. Two decades and 95 individual Natural Awakenings magazines later, the need for this has never been stronger. The beating heart of the magazine continues to be its sense of compassionate activism, the notion that by doing good, being good, and continually examining – with open mind and heart – that which we think we know, better things become possible for all. In a time when many people are plagued with chronic conditions mainstream medicine is struggling to address, it is appropriate to reconsider and apply ancient wisdom. Chinese medicine is a philosophy and healing system with its roots in centuries of carefully recorded observation and practice. In comparison, our conventional Western system of medicine is a teenager, showing the same arrogant swagger of certainty unproven by experience that many human teens exhibit. As Maskell notes, there’s never been a better time to question and consider alternatives to conventions that aren’t really working. In this issue we invite you to explore – with the guidance of local experts – the comprehensive art and science that is Chinese medicine. Too often in our cultural understanding, Chinese medicine is reduced to acupuncture (since that’s the one tool Western scientists have so far been able to explain through their own approach); but there is much more to the system than that. We are fortunate that in our area there are some extremely well-qualified and experienced Chinese medicine practitioners from diverse backgrounds; we have included profiles of some of them. For the foodies out there, we examine the national trend of the cottage food industry and then trace the path back to our community, with profiles of a few innovators in the local food arena as well as independent natural markets where you can always find such products. Thank you for joining us on this journey. I encourage you to keep your heart and mind open, learn and question what you thought you believed. It is in the gap between what we know and what we have yet to understand that true wisdom will be created. With love and light,
We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.
SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available by sending $30 (for 12 issues) to the above address. Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soy-based ink.
4
Fairfield County Edition
natural awakenings
See our advertiser index on page 86. Making it easier to find the resources you need.
contents 18 6 newsbriefs balanced life. In each issue readers find cutting-edge information on natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal 15 eventspotlight growth, green living, creative expression and the products 18 healthbriefs and services that support a healthy lifestyle. 20 therapyspotight 22 globalbriefs 26 NATURAL MOOD 29 BOOSTERS 26 healingways Safe Alternatives 3 1 masteringyoga to Antidepressants 22 54 healthykids 56 inspiredtable 29 LETTING GO OF PERFECTION ON 60 consciouseating AND OFF THE MAT 68 naturallyhealthypet 69 naturalpet 32 32 AWAKENING THE 74 calendar GLOBAL HEART 80 classifieds Compassionate Activists Unite to Write Earth’s New Story 80 resourceguide 85 cosmicrhythms 69 86 displayadindex 36 MODERN CHINESE Natural Awakenings is your guide to a healthier, more
by Kathleen Barnes
by Nina Antolino
by Linda Sechrist
advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 203-885-4674 or email FFCAdvertising@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com. Deadline for ads: the 12th of the month.
MEDICINE FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY by Kenneth Hoffman
42 PINNING DOWN
ACUPUNCTURE
Acupuncture Practitioners
EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com. Deadline for News Briefs: the 12th of the month.
by Sheri Hatfield
CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com. Deadline for magazine calendar listings: the 12th of the month. Website calendar listings may be entered at any time.
LIVE A HAPPIER LIFE
REGIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-449-8309. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.
eNaturalAwakenings.com
38
Getting to the Point of
48 GET UNSTUCK TO
Apply Feng Shui Principles to Your Home and Life
42
by Catherine Avery
54 WHOLE CHILD SPORTS
Free Play Earns the Winning Score by Luis Fernando Llosa
60 THE FOOD ARTISANS NEXT DOOR Homemade Delicacies,
Direct from Our Neighbors by Lisa Kivirist and John Ivanko eNaturalAwakenings.com
48 October 2015
5
be
that encourages you to express yo as will embody wisdom and courage,wo a
newsbriefs
Greenwich Workshop and Group Support Women
O
Raising Awareness of Complementary Medicine
T
he third annual Naturopathic Medicine Week will be held October 5-11, a time when many naturopathic physicians (NDs) will offer an opportunity for community members to learn more about how naturopathic medicine can help with healthy living and disease prevention. Local NDs will be showcasing their practices with open houses, articles, promotions and more to get the word out about the benefits. Check with practitioners in your area to see if they are offering any special events. October 24 has also been designated Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Day to increase public awareness of the benefits of this ancient healing system. Professional associations, research organizations and educational institutions in the U.S., Canada, Mexico and Pakistan will partner to support local practitioners on this awareness day. Contact your local practitioner for more information on the modalities they offer and how such techniques can benefit your health and well-being. For more information about Naturopathic Medicine Week, visit Naturopathic.org/NaturopathicMedicineWeek. AOMday.org offers information on Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Day.
n October 17 Evelyn Carayannis i Ka from 10am Energetics and Kri Pr to 6pm, Karin Marriage and Fami Ma Knoblich and Evelyn private practice in G Sh Carayannis – both been noted for her fac therapists trained as a facilitator. Her En in Core Energetics women step into the NY – are offering the life they long for. fac Tired Of Going at Please visit: www.ev em It Alone? workshop Evelyn Carayannis Karin Knoblich Ple for women. Karin Knoblich is This workshop is designed to be both an introduction to Practitioner (CCEP), Core Energetics and an invitation to join/form an ongoing Marriage Mentor an women’s group, where women may experience the power She is the owner of of being in a group that encourages them to express themfaculty member of selves fully with the support of other women. The work is to Energetics. Karin ha embody authenticity, intimacy and integrity. NYC and Greenwich The cost for the workshop is $135 or $120 if registered facilitate a process more than 10 days prior. embody their full pot Knoblich is a certified Core Energetics practitioner, life Please visit: www.co coach, Exceptional Marriage Mentor and spiritual counselor who works with individuals, couples and groups. She is the owner of Core Relations in Greenwich and a faculty member of the Institute of Core Energetics. Carayannis is a graduate of Core Energetics and Kriya Yoga. She studies marriage and family therapy and has a private practice in Greenwich. To register, contact Karin Knoblich at 917-549-8689 and Karin@KarinKnoblich.com or Evelyn Carayannis at 917685-7591 and EvelynCarayannis@aol.com.Core Relations is located at 522 East Putnam Ave, Ste 8A, Greenwich. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 84.
No Pills, No Needles, No Pain! Call for a Consultation Today! 203-531-5688 235 Glenville Road Greenwich, CT
GET YOUR LIFE BACK... You could be PAIN FREE in less than 3 months!
END CHRONIC PAIN from MIGRAINES, HEADACHES, TMJ, & TINNITUS (Ringing in the ears) 203-531-5688 6
Fairfield County Edition
natural awakenings
lif Pl
CtHeadacheRelief.com
Nutritional Science Clinic Opens in Stamford
K
urt Waples, DC, has launched Bluestone Health Group, a newly formed nutritional science clinic in Stamford. The clinic in Stamford offers detoxification, cancer prevention and weight loss programs, as well as neurologybased structural care. One of Bluestone Health Group’s services is a body composition and hormone assessment. Body fat distribution is hormone-regulated – fat is deposited in different areas of your body when hormones are imbalanced. Bluestone’s body composition assessment also looks at testosterone production and balance, estrogens, thyroid, insulin and blood sugar, stress and growth hormones. October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Traditionally, cancer prevention is thought of as early detection. Doctors recommend you get screened so when cancer shows up you can get traditional cancer care early. Bluestone Health Group’s perspective on cancer prevention emphasizes the literal meaning of prevention. Nutrition science has thousands of studies showing its preventative nature and a powerful tool for cancer prevention. With this in mind, Bluestone Healthgroup was formed, to prevent cancers and disease before they even occur. Bluestone Health Group also offers neurological-based chiropractic care, which identifies the primary muscles/structure involved in pain and dysfunction and corrects the cause of pain, not the symptoms. This method has proven effective at eliminating chronic pain patterns. For more information, visit BluestoneHealthGroup.com or call 203-2206488. The office is open Monday-Friday 8:30am-6pm and Saturdays 8:30amnoon. Location: Bluestone Health Group, 47 Oak St, Suite 250, Stamford.
MG
MARY GILBERTSON MS, BSN, RN, CHHC
Nurse, Nutritionist & Healthy Lifestyle Coach
Prescription 4 Wellness
203-521-4733 Serving Fairfield County! healthylife@prescription4wellness.com www.Prescription4Wellness.com
203.451.7880
www.lorganized.com Applying Principles of Behavior, Learning Styles, & Change into Organizing
Home/Residential • Corporate/Business • Special Populations Mental Health Clients • Seniors • Floor Planning
Margarita Cossuto, Ph.D margarita@lorganized.com
Start Living Energized & Organized!
It is not enough to have a good mind; the main thing is to use it well. ~René Descartes
Kindred Spirits A Center for the Mind, Body, & Soul
Relax, Enjoy, Let Your Spirit Shine Through Interfaith Ministry Services Energy Sessions (Reiki, Rising Star) Certification Classes (Reiki, Rising Star) Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) Ear Coning • Meditation Classes Intuitive/Clarity Sessions Group Workshops • Buddhist Chanting
203-938-3690 www.kindredspiritscenter.com 59 Ledgewood Road, Redding, CT 06896 eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
7
newsbriefs
SOPHIA Natural Health Launches New Integrative Website
S
Combine Self-Inquiry and Art with Soul Collage
T
he one-day Introductory SoulCollage classes will be offered on three separate days: October 5 (10:30am to 1pm), 6 (1 to 3pm) and 21 (7:30 to 10pm). Attendees will learn more about SoulCollage and make one or two cards with Zelie Pforzheimer. Classes are $35 per person. SoulCollage was developed by Seena Frost in the early 21st century as a vehicle for self-inquiry, understanding and healing. It melds the practice of creating art – small collages using images cut out of magazines, cards and books – with meditation. SoulCollage is taught in 23 countries by more than 2,500 facilitators. As with yoga and meditation, SoulCollage as a practice can deepen over time and can be used to create flow on a daily basis. Zelie Pforzheimer has been creating cards for more than 20 years and came to the practice of SoulCollage after attending a week-long seminar at The Esalen Institute in California. For more information and to register for classes, visit PForZSoulCollage.com. Location: October’s classes will be held at Cafe Ruche at 101 Ridgefield Rd, Wilton Town Center, Wilton. See ad, page 14.
OPHIA Natural Health launched its new INM.Center website on October 1 to help people learn to repair, improve or preserve their health without drugs. The SOPHIA Natural Health Center - Integrative Natural Medicine website is mobile and device-friendly, with the latest news, articles and useful information about health and wellness. It will have a calendar of events and lectures, most of which are free to the public. The Natural Pharmacy page will be simple to navigate and will have specific protocols and quality, healthcare professional supplements that will be available for purchase. The Natural Medicine Connection Radio Show, hosted by SOPHIA Natural Health Center’s Medical Director and Founder Kenneth Hoffman, DAc (RI), LAcl (CT), CCH, airs on 800 WLAD On-Air on Saturdays from 10 to 11am. The shows will also be archived on the new SOPHIA website. “I am excited to finally have a website dedicated toward education and meeting a lot of the needs that patients and listeners to the show have requested,” said Hoffman. For more information, visit INM.Center or call 203-7409300. Location: SOPHIA Natural Health Center, 31 Old Rte 7, Brookfield. See ad, page 3.
Mind-Body Transformation Hypnosis Center Dynamic Therapy for Rapid and Powerful Change
Change Your Mind and Change Your Life! Introducing the Newest Technology in Body Sculpting Non-invasive • No Pain • No Downtime • No Side Effects • Super Safe • Immediate Results
Eliminate Fat . . . Without Surgery
SLIM SHAPE TONE
Lose 3-9 Inches Permanently - In As Little As 3 Weeks!
Safe and revolutionary skin rejuvenation system using the latest Red LED Light Therapy technology
body sculpting Advanced Slimming Technology Delivering Immediate Results
Call 203 595-0110 for a Free Consultation Thought Field Therapy • Hypnosis • NLP • Virtual Gastric Band Program 1177 High Ridge Road, Stamford, CT • www.mindbodytransformation.com • Diane@mindbodytransformation.com 8
Fairfield County Edition
natural awakenings
An Art-Philanthropy-Business Partnership Expands To Food in New Canaan
F
rom September 25 through December, Rosie in New Canaan, in partnership with The Meeting House, is presenting an exhibition of the works of Suzanne Sunshine. Combining passions in art, philanthropy and food, this event is a joining of three entrepreneurs to raise funds for The Meeting House. The nonprofit organization uses the “platform of play” to help children overcome social-emotional challenges in developing relationships. “Suzanne Sunshine at Rosie” will include an exhibition with more than 30 paintings by emerging New York Citybased artist, Suzanne Sunshine, to benefit the philanthropy of Pound Ridge-based Paula Resnick. Rose Bonura, owner and chef of the Rosie breakfast and lunch eatery, and Joanne “JoJo” Keane, Rosie’s artist/curator, have supported local and emerging artists by providing an art exhibition space for many years. A portion of the proceeds from the painting sales will be donated to The Meeting House. The event is the third of a new social venture created by Resnick and Sunshine, two members of New York’s real estate families, in response to their children’s early childhood communication issues. Five years ago, Resnick created The Meeting House for children facing a range of issues from social anxiety to relational awkwardness. For more information on The Meeting House, visit TheMeetingHouseAfterSchool.org. All paintings for sale are listed at SuzanneSunshine.com/#!Exhibitions/cee5. Location: Rosie, 27 Elm St, New Canaan.
Celebrate Halloween in Nature with Little Ones
O
n October 31 from 10am to 1pm, families with young children are invited to spend the morning with the Westbrook Nature School on six acres in West Redding. As part of the Woodland Halloween event, families will bake bread, make apple cider in the cider press, see a puppet show and take an enchanted fairytale trail walk. Organic soup and bread will be served. Non-scary costumes are optional. Westbrook Nature School offers nature-based education on a property featuring trails, streams and meadows, with an organic garden and natural playscapes. The curriculum builds physical and emotional resilience, moral awareness and the foundation required for intellectual growth. Parent/child classes, mixed-age kindergarten, adult workshops, playdays and seasonal events are offered. To reserve a spot, call 203-664-1554 or email Info@WestbrookNatureSchool.org. The suggested donation is $10 per family. Location: Westbrook Nature School, 7 Long Ridge Rd, West Redding. See ad, page 53.
Integrative Medicine & Wellness Services
at New Milford Hospital Acupuncture Jessica Ifshin, Lic. Ac, Dipl. OM $55 / hour 619-253-5539
Therapeutic Touch, Reiki Marcia Engle, QTTP $22 / 30 minutes 203-376-2703
Reflexology & Massage Therapy Gabrielle Cronin, LMT Reflexology $25 /30 minutes Massage $45 /45 minutes 860-210-5349
Hypnotherapy Alexandra Chalif, MS, MP $40/30 minutes 203-910-7878 Stress Reduction & Relaxation Training Veronica Kleeman $60/75 minute session One-on-one or group 860-567-4384
Strong Women Strong Bones™ Lisa Marie Lee, Certified Instructor $85/7 week session 860-614-1737 (Pay by cash or check at class)
New Milford Hospital 21 Elm Street, New Milford, CT
Please call in credit card payment to 860-210-5349 or pay in person at The NMH Gift Shop at least 24 hours in advance.
S&SF NaturalAwakenings_09182015_3.5x4.5_Layout 1 9/18/15 10:24 AM P
STICKS & STONES FARM A unique, family-owned working farm, B&B and education center welcomes you to walk our woodland trails and experience our diverse curriculum of activities geared toward healthy living.
ON-GOING EVENTS:
SPECIAL EVENTS:
Yoga- “45 and Better” Mondays 7:00-8:30pm
Contra Dance October 17- 6:00-9:00pm suggested donation $10
Hatha Para Yoga Tuesdays 6:15-7:30pm
REIKI level 1 (Oct 4-18) Sundays- 5:00-8:00pm
Yoga- “45 and Better” Wednesdays 9:30-11:00am Yoga Therapeutics (start Oct 8) Thursdays 11:00am-12:15pm
REIKI level 2 (Nov 1-15) Sundays- 5:00-8:00pm
Yoga with Sarah Breton Saturdays 5:00-6:00pm Kundalini Yoga Sundays 11:00am-12:30pm Essential Oils Class Last Tues. of every month 7:00-8:30pm (FREE) Ukulele Jam Session Second Wed. of every month 6:30pm-8:30pm (by donation) Swedish Massage 7 days a week (by appt.)
For more information, or to find out about renting a space for your next special occasion, visit
sticksandstonesfarm.com or call
203 270 8820
201 HUNTINGTOWN ROAD, NEWTOWN, CT 06470 eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
9
newsbriefs Unity Center Hosts Halloween ‘Spook-Tacular’
A
ll are welcome for a costume dinner-dance benefit hosted by Unity Center of Norwalk. On October 31 from 7 to 11pm at the Oak Hills Restaurant in Norwalk, the party will feature dinner, a cash bar and a DJ. Prizes will be given for best, scariest and funniest costumes and for the Monster Mash Dance Off. Early bird tickets are on sale for $70 until October 1 and for $100 after that date. VIP tickets are available for $125, which covers two free drinks and a tarot card reading. Unity Center of Norwalk is a non-denominational spiritual community that is rooted in bringing people of all faiths together to experience joy and laughter. Regular offerings include Sunday services each week at 10:30am, an open mic night the third Saturday of every month, and many classes and events throughout the year. Dance location: Oak Hills Restaurant, 165 Fillow St, Norwalk. For more information and to order tickets, visit UnityCenter Norwalk.org or call 203-855-7922. Unity Center Location: 3 Main St, Norwalk (above the Ford dealership). See ad, page 24.
Acupuncture Wellness Clinic Offered Patricia Singer, MS, LAc, will host a monthly auricular (ear) acupuncture clinic for people who are new to acupuncture or who would like to experience specific acupuncture ear points designed to alleviate tension and relax. The first three clinics have been scheduled at Total Life Care Center in Norwalk for the second Saturday of each upcoming month on October 10, November 14 and December 12. Patients sit on chairs and receive several minutes of individual time while five acupuncture needles are applied to specific points in each ear. You can arrive for treatment anytime within the 10:30am to 1pm clinic window. Each patient can relax, breathe or meditate while listening to soft background music for 30 to 45 minutes before the needles are removed. Participants can leave whenever they feel ready. One, two or three sessions can be purchased in advance: one for $40, two for $60 or three for $75. The auricular points have been proven to help treat people with post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, addiction and other conditions such as insomnia, depression, weight loss and stress reduction. To register and for more information, visit PatSinger.com, email Patricia@PatSinger.com or call 203-226-8897. Location: Total Life Care Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. See ad, page 17.
GET YOUR HEALTH BACK IN BALANCE...
naturally. irritable, depressed or anxious, experiencing muscle pain? You may have an untreated nutritional or hormonal imbalance Call 203-324-4747 for an appointment with a Board Certified, Georgetown-trained MD who is dedicated to treating you... naturally 22 FIFTH STREET• SUITE 201 • STAMFORD, CT • 06905
Michael E. Doyle, Md • 203-324-4747 • GoToDrDoyle.com 10
Fairfield County Edition
natural awakenings
‘Feel Fabulous’ Fall Open House in Westport
S
halva Clinic, located at 8 Lincoln Street in Westport, will hold its second seasonal open house on October 9 from 4:30 to 8pm. A series of innovative talks by the clinic’s professional service providers will be held every half hour throughout the evening. Topics include: • 4:30pm: Strengthen Your Immune System with Beverly Lewis, Reiki Ellen Lewis, ND master and herbalist • 5pm: Increase Your Energy & Focus with Tracy Pardo, integrative nutrition health coach • 5:30pm: Unrestricted Living - Move Freely, Live Joyfully with Shannon Reynolds, licensed massage therapist • 6pm: Relieve Chronic Pain with Micronutrients with Andrew Cummins, ND • 6:30pm: Attain Your True Potential – Insomnia, Fatigue, Stress, Concentration with Ellen Lewis, ND • 7pm: A Nourishing Discussion – Medications & Micronutrients with Kulveen Virdee, ND • 7:30pm: Understanding the Impact of Micronutrients on Mood with Amanda Placeres, ND The open house is free to the public and includes healthy bites and beverages, as well as free massages, raffles and prizes. Participants will engage in herbal medicine demonstrations and take home recipes to support health and wellbeing. “We understand that optimal healthcare is more than just treating symptoms,” said Ellen Lewis, ND, founder of Shalva Clinic. “Our healthcare focus is on individualized plans to help our patients really thrive in life. We want everyone to feel vibrant, balanced and really alive. Naturopathic medicine offers a science-based way to maximize energy, get your weight where you want it, and feel fabulous every day.” For more information, a complete list of services and providers, and to subscribe to the clinic’s newsletter, visit ShalvaClinic.org. Location: Shalva Clinic, 8 Lincoln St, Westport. See ad, page 37.
Great things are done by a series of small things brought together. ~Vincent Van Gogh
Psychotherapy = Soul Healing Anasta Kydes MA, NCC, LPC, ACSM CPT
Licensed Psychotherapist and Certified Personal Trainer
Treating Adults with: Anxiety • Mild Depression • Stress Trauma History • Low Self-Esteem • Relationship Conflict Meditation and exercise incorporated as requested. Call for a Free 15 minute phone consultation 203-318-4514
Harmony of the Mind, Body, & Soul ���
91 East Avenue | Norwalk, CT 06851 | anastakydes@yahoo.com
Please listen to your
brilliantsoul.com Intuitive Energy Healing, in person or distance — Soul Contract Information CranioSacral Therapy — SomatoEmotional Release — Channelling Chakra Clearing & Balancing Group & Private Classes in Reiki I II III & Brain Wave Vibration
Carla Bates Barzetti carla@brilliantsoul.com
203.364.6262
Crystal Visions
For a World of Peace & Blessings Spiritual Counseling & Novelties
860-210-9897
www.CrystalVisionsCT.com Family and Child Psychotherapy Support and Guidance • Divorce Anxiety • Parent/Child Conflict Attachment and Bonding • Trauma • Grief Professional/Executive Coaching
Robin Ordan, LCSW 203-561-8535
www.robinordanlcsw.com Located on the Old Greenwich/Stamford Border eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
11
Massage Therapy Program
Complete this course in 9 months day classes or 16 months evening classes!
New New Location! Location! 44 44Shelter Shelter Rock RockRoad Road
Find out more! (203) 797-0551 Ridley.edu | Ridley-Lowell Business & Technical Institute 44 Shelter Rock Road, Danbury, CT 06810
For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of the students who have completed the program, and other important information, please visit our website at www.Ridley.edu
Hunger Stops, Weight Drops, Almost Magic
To make an appointment, call our office and ask for Jess or Misty
One for $99 Three for $249 Offer expires 11/30/15
12
Fairfield County Edition
natural awakenings
newsbriefs Stress Reduction Programs Launch in Fairfield and Danbury
S
heila Wall, MSW, mindfulness coach and trainer and the president of In Synchrony, LLC, is offering an eight-week Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program in two locations this fall in partnership with Carol Shear, a registered nurse, integrative health coach and the owner of Rise Up Coaching, LLC. A free introductory session will Sheila Wall be held on October 8 at 636 Old Post Road in Fairfield. The Thursday classes will run from October 15 through December 10 from 6:30 to 9pm. On October 5, a free introduction will be held at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Danbury, located at 24 Clapboard Ridge Road, Danbury. The eight-week Danbury training will take place Mondays 6:30-9pm from October 12 through November 30. Carol Shear MBSR is a method of using mindfulness practices and techniques to cultivate non-judgmental, present-moment awareness to reduce stress, pain and illness. Participants learn to observe default reactions to life’s stressors and discover that they are at choice to respond, instead of react, to daily challenges and stressors. Throughout the program, these practices are applied to everyday situations. The course features daily home assignments in concert with practical class time, which includes guided meditations, group dialogue and individually tailored instruction. Participants receive an MBSR workbook and CDs/mp3s for practice between classes. Common conditions that benefit from MBSR include anxiety, chronic pain, cancer, depression, high blood pressure, sleep problems, stomach/bowl ailments, headaches, and a desire for an overall elevated quality of life. Both Wall and Shear trained in MBSR at UMass Medical School’s Center for Mindfulness in Medicine, Health Care, and Society. To register for the free introduction and/or the MBSR eight-week program, visit DanburyMBSRIntroandProgram. eventbrite.com for the Danbury location or FairfieldMBSRIntroandProgram.eventbrite.com for Fairfield. For more information, email Carol Shear at Carol.Shear@gmail.com, call 203-452-9614 or visit RiseUpCoaching.com or contact Sheila Wall at Sheila@InSynchronyLLC.com or 203-216-6243.
Upcoming IHHS Sponsored Certification Programs
T
Functional Medicine Physician Returns to Greenwich Roots
wo certification programs will be offered by the Institute of Holistic Health Studies (IHHS) at Western Connecticut State University this school year. These programs are open to students, faculty, staff and all community members. Quantum-Touch Level 1 Workshop with Balaram Muddapu, Ph.D., and Syamalamba Muddapu, MBA will be offered on October 10 and 11 from 9am to 5:30pm. Quantum-touch, an interactive energy-based, heart-centered modality, uses non-invasive techniques with light touch to assist the body in restoring balance and harmony. Whether you want to learn how to heal yourself and care for your friends and family, or if you work as a healthcare professional wishing to expand your skills, this workshop will teach the building blocks to learning the entire Quantum-Touch system. Professionals can earn approved continued education hours. For more information, visit QuantumTouch.com/index.php?option=com_qtevents&view= details&id=22177&Itemid=423. Lara Azzarito Ward, 500 E-RYT, LMT, will offer a 200hour Yoga Teacher Training on Fridays 9am–4:15pm, running October 2, 2015 through April 22, 2016. Lotus Gardens Yoga School’s curriculum covers the major styles instructed currently, including Alignment, Ashtanga, Gentle, Hatha, Kundalini, Restorative, Vinyasa and Yin. Also offered will be additional research and hands-on student teaching for medical concerns and special needs such as prenatal, back/neck problems, arthritis, menopause, seniors, anxiety, depression and more. The teacher training is offered in three elements: philosophy and culture, anatomy and asana, and teach what you love. Each element is 56 classroom hours plus four hours of mentoring and one field trip day to New York City. In addition, each candidate will be required to do 20 hours of home study. Visit LotusGardensYoga.com/200hr.html for more information. Costs for the programs will vary. Workshop fees should be paid directly to the workshop leaders.
D
For more information, visit Wcsu.edu/IHHS. The certification workshops will all be held in Berkshire Hall 119. Location: Western Connecticut State University, 181 White St, Danbury.
For more information, visit GinaCarlottiMD.com, email DrGina@GinaCarlottiMD.com or call 203-302-3404. Location: 500 West Putnam Ave, Greenwich.
r. Gina Carlotti has returned to her hometown of Greenwich to establish a personalized functional medicine practice. Carlotti, a boardcertified family physician, is board-eligible in integrative/ holistic medicine as well as in addiction medicine. Functional medicine is an individualized systems-based approach to optimal wellness that expands upon traditional allopathic practice by seekGina Carlotti, MD ing not only to diagnose and treat a person’s symptoms but also to investigate why a person develops specific conditions. To do this, Carlotti explores the interactions between a person’s current state of health, genetics, environment and lifestyle. A multi-modality treatment plan is then created. “My goal is to help each of my patients thrive,” says Carlotti. “Together, we develop a plan that helps him or her live life to the greatest potential – however, he or she defines that.” Carlotti’s practice focuses on general health and wellness as well as the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular and cardiometabolic diseases, endocrine disorders/ hormone imbalances, chemical sensitivities/exposures, mental health concerns and substance use disorders. Carlotti graduated from Jefferson Medical College with honors and completed her family medicine internship and residency at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. She combined her clinical training with a Masters of Bioethics (MBE) at the University of Pennsylvania, from which she also graduated with honors.
Hunter Healing Hands Integrative & Intuitive Shamanic Wellness Holistic Healing to Honor, Restore, & Transform Body, Mind, & Soul Jessica Hunter Shamanic Teacher, Practitioner, & Shamanic Medium, Crystal Healing Teacher & Melody Certified Crystal Healing Practitioner, Reiki Master, OM, Circle of the Sacred Earth Quality Holistic Healing Training that is Personal, Professional, and Passionate! • Certification & Accredited Training Programs in Reiki, Crystal Healing, & Shamanic Healing • Monthly Workshops & Events • Monthly Shamanic Drum Circles
• Reiki • Crystal Healing & Melody Crystal Healing • Acupressure • Shamanic EFT • Shamanic Intuitive Readings • Shamanic Healing • Power Animal Retrievals • Soul Retrievals
• Extraction • Ancestral Healing • Shamanic Spirit Attachment & Cleansing Removal • Shamanic Curse Breaking Healing • Shamanic Spiritual Counseling • Munay Ki Rites • Professional Space Clearing & Blessing for Homes, Land or Businesses • Legal Sacred Ceremonies
Private Integrative Healing Sessions | 203-916-8381 | www. hunterhealinghands.com | hunterhealinghands@hotmail.com
eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
13
Where Creativity and Meditation meet Introduction to SoulCollage® Classes held in Wilton CT. $35/class.
Monday, October 5, 10:30 am-1:00 pm Tuesday, October 6, 1:00-3:00 pm Wednesday, October 21, 7:30-9:30 pm
newsbriefs Back to You Wellness & Day Spa Now Open
All supplies are provided, but bringing a personal journal is suggested.
Zelie Pforzheimer
Certified SoulCollage® Facilitator
To register, visit: www.pforzsoulcollage.com SoulCollage® created by Seena Frost and described in her book: SoulCollage: An Intuitive Process for Individuals and Groups.
BREAST SCREENING WITHOUT RADIATION 8 Years Earlier Detection vs Mammograms No Compression • FDA Approved
Suzanne Pyle, MS, CCT www.XtoRays.com 203-331-2878 or 866-XTORAYS Locations throughout Fairfield County
X To Rays
DIGITAL INFRARED THERMAL IMAGING
If everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself. ~Henry Ford
Expanding Possibility Through Vision Eyecare Associates, PC Dr. Randy Schulman, M.S., O.D., FCOVD Dr. Stephen Carr, O.D. Dr. Narvan Bakhtiari, O.D. Dr. Brian Rodrigues, O.D. Dr. Jason Rutherford, O.D. 2600 Post Road Southport, CT 06890 203-255-4005
14
Fairfield County Edition
é Comprehensive Eye Exams for All Ages
é Solutions for Dry Eyes, Computer Use & Sports é Exceptional Treatment for Eye Diseases
é High Quality Eyeglasses & Specialty Contact Lenses é Iridology, Vision Therapy & Preventive Vision Care www.cteyecareassociates.com
6515 Main Street Trumbull, CT 06611 203-374-2020 natural awakenings
444 Westport Avenue Norwalk, CT 06851 203-840-1991
D
anbury’s newest wellness center, Back to You Wellness & Day Spa, is founded entirely on creating a unique and custom experience that enhances each client’s wellbeing. Owner Bethany Colley is a massage therapist, Reiki practitioner and aesthetician whose mission is to provide a comprehensive suite of services emphasizing the importance of restoring balance and bringing relaxation and wellness. Services currently offered at the spa include therapeutic massage therapy, customized facials, Reiki, reflexology, makeup application and waxing. Beginning in October, Back to You will offer various classes and workshops such as Pilates, nutritional baking, group meditation and angel healing workshops. For dates, times and pricing for upcoming workshops, visit BackToYouWellness.com or the spa’s Facebook page (Facebook.com/ BacktoYouWellness). For more information, visit BackToYouWellness.com, call 203-587-0962 or email BackToYouWellness@gmail.com. Regular hours are Monday-Wednesday 10am-6pm, Thursday-Friday 10am-8pm, Saturday 9am-4pm and Sunday 11am-4pm. Location: 12 Mill Plain Rd, Danbury.
eventspotlight
Shark Tank Stars Headline Health Wellness & Sports Expo
H
ealth and wellness businesses successfully launched on ABC’s Shark Tank show will be spotlighted at the 4th Annual Stamford Hospital Health Wellness & Sports Expo on October 17 and 18 at Chelsea Piers Connecticut. The Shark Tank Health Zone, a special new attraction for the expo, will feature Billy Blanks Jr., creator and director of Dance It Out, along with Nuts ‘N More, First Defense Nasal Screens and others. A certified professional known for designing feel-good fitness programs that make working out fun,
Blanks’ Dance It Out company’s dance programs are expanding in America, Japan and other countries. In addition, Blanks is an accomplished director and choreographer. His DVDs will be available for purchase and signing. Blanks will conduct one-hour dance fitness classes on Saturday at 1:30pm and Sunday at noon. To preregister for one of the free classes, call TMK Sports & Entertainment at 203-531-3047. Nuts ‘N More started four years ago when the founders sought healthy alternatives for adding protein to the diet without resorting to bars or shakes. The company has expanded from high protein peanut and almond butters to other nut-based products such as Almond Infused Protein and a new Peanut Powder line. The products will be available for tasting and purchasing. First Defense Nasal Screens are designed to help filter and reduce the amount of contaminants that people inhale in all types of environments. They can be worn for up to 24 hours and seal 100 percent of the nasal passage. Self-cleaning, they will not clog and can be worn in extremely hot and cold temperatures without losing their extra strength moisture-resistant and
repelling hypo-allergenic adhesive. The 4th Annual Stamford Hospital Health Wellness & Sports Expo will feature complimentary health screenings for adults by Stamford Hospital, children’s Billy activities, and Blanks, Jr. athlete and author appearances in addition to information, products, services and demos from over 90 exhibitors. Admission and parking are free. The public is asked to bring nonperishable food to donate for The Food Bank of Lower Fairfield County. In addition to the title sponsor, Stamford Hospital, sponsors include Grade A ShopRite, CVS Health, EBMAS CT Martial Arts, Karl Chevrolet, the Microsoft Store Danbury Fair Mall and Healthy CT, Passport For Life. Media sponsors are Star 99.9, 95.9 the Fox, News 12 Connecticut, Moffly Media/Stamford Magazine, Natural Awakenings Fairfield County, Fairfield Parent and Hearst Media Services. The event kicks off on Saturday with the 2nd Annual Run Walk for Health & Hunger, a 5K to benefit The Food Bank. For more information, visit HWS-Expos. com. Expo hours are 9am to 4pm on October 17 and 11am to 4pm on October 18. Location: Chelsea Piers Connecticut, 1 Blachley Rd, Stamford. See ad, page 53.
eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
15
special advertising section
Total Life Care Center TLC Center • 152 East Ave • Norwalk, CT 203-856-9566 • TLCcenter.com
T
otal Life Care Center was founded in 1997 by Beth Leas on the premise that a single candle burns brighter in a gathering. Today TLC is Fairfield County’s largest holistic health network, with more than 90 independent
members. Total Life Care Center is dedicated to holistic health by providing you with highly trained and experienced integrative health care practitioners.
October’s Featured Workshops
Divorce: Not Just the “D” Word Support Groups With Julie Punishill, Divorce Coach
D
Eye of the Storm
Learn to Keep Calm and Carry On with Meg Reilly
ivorce doesn’t have to be the “D” word, but can actually be a time of great personal growth. Lean on others who are also going through the un-coupling process in our caring and safe group. Explore customized tools to help you learn more about who you are, what your obstacles are and how to overcome them. Each group is $50. Or sign up and pay for 3 months and the rate is reduced to $40/group, $120 total. The daytime group meets the second Thursday of every month from 10 am - 11:30 am at Total Life Care Center. Upcoming dates: 10/3, 11/12, 12/10. The evening group meets the third Thursday of every month from 7 pm - 8:30 pm at Total Life Care Center. Upcoming dates: 9/17, 10/15, 11/19, 12/17.
E
veryday life can feel like a storm swirling around you! Work to do, deadlines to meet, partners, kids or pets needing attention, bills to pay, ambitions to nurture. Learn how to stop the madness! Find out how to find the eye of the storm, the calm center where there is tranquility, serenity, quiet, and you are in control. You will learn self-hypnosis and mindfulness practices, experience chakra clearing and guided meditation, and gain tools for centering yourself. You will definitely learn to keep calm and carry on! Classes will be held at TLC Center in Norwalk on 9/23, 9/30 and 10/7. The workshop will also be given at Halo Studios in New Canaan on 9/24, 10/1 and 10/8. $45 per class or $120 for all three. To register, email megreilly360@gmail.com
Balance Your Body. Find Peace of Mind. Reconnect to Spirit. Raise your Energetic Frequency to Stimulate Health & Healing Reduce Stress Induce Relaxation Relieve Chronic & Acute Pain Speed Wound Healing
Boost Immune Function Improve Memory & Concentration Ease Anxiety & Depression Reiki • Jin Shin Jyutsu • Tarot
203-856-9566
www.bethleas.com In person or by phone
Private Sessions • Workshops • Special Events • Norwalk & Ridgefield Locations 16
Fairfield County Edition
natural awakenings
special advertising section
Rooted In Spirit Healing Arts Center Spiritual Alchemy | Acupuncture Sound & Energy Healing | Chinese Medical Aromatherapy Spiritual Counseling & Ceremonies
Fairfield County’s #1 Center
For Stress Reduction and Mind Education Float in warm water with a high concentration of Epsom salt with no light or sound. Amplify slow brain waves, talk to certified float staff, reduce stress, pain, & more.
Schedule your appointments: (203)-226-7378 • ifloatspa.net 163 Main St.,Westport, CT
Patricia Singer MS, LAc CT Licensed Acupuncturist, Diplomat NCCAOM, Ordained Interfaith Minister
Private Sessions | Workshops | Special Events | Monthly Auricular (ear) Acupuncture Clinic
544 Riverside Avenue, Westport, Ct. 06880
203-856-9566 TLCcenter.com
patsinger.com
Discover How Divorce Can Actually Be An Opportunity For Tremendous Personal Growth
Private Sessions • Support Groups • Workshops Meditation Coaching • Meditation Groups In person, by phone, or Skype | Norwalk & New Canaan locations
Julie Punishill Certified Life Coach, Intuitive
203-309-2820
www.juliepunishill.com juliepunishill@gmail.com
Find the ground, and your connection to your true self, your soul.
SOUL CENTEREDHEALING
Your ad could be here! Contact Beth Leas today to learn more about the many benefits of membership in TLC
203-226-8897
INTEGRATED HEALING SESSIONS FOR YOUR BODY, MIND AND SPIRIT
♥ Eliminate Pain, Clear Anxiety, Balance Hormones, Relieve Stress ♥ Create a life of deep meaning and purpose. ♥ Experience more love, health, & peace in all areas of your life.
DANIELLE JOFFE HAMPTON M.A., L.AC. Each session utilizes Danielle’s profound skills and 20+ years of practice in Intuitive Counseling, Energy Medicine, Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine to address the root cause of your issue. Formerly one of the leading healing practitioners at Canyon Ranch. Sessions are in-person or via phone.
soulcentered@mac.com
203-292-9869
soul-centered-healing.com
Healing & Strсs Reduction John of God C Crystal Bed HealingHEALING SOUL ENTERED INTEGRATED HEALING SESSIONS FOR YOUR BODY, MIND AND SPIRIT
◊
◊ Promote Mind, Body, and Spiritual Healing ♥ Eliminate Pain, Clear Anxiety, Balance Hormones, Relieve Stress Stimulate Development of Inner Senses for Spiritual Awareness ♥ Create a life of deep meaning and purpose. ◊ Balance the Chakras and Subtle Bodies and Heal the Psyche ♥ Experience more love, health, & peace in all areas of your life. ◊ Rebalance Frequencies in the Body’s Electro-Magnetic Fields
D
J
H
M.A., L.A .
ANIELLE OFFE AMPTON C Hilda M. Swaby www.HildaReikiLover.com Usui & Karuna Reiki Master Healer HildaReikiLover@optonline.net Each session utilizes Danielle’s profound skills and 20+ years of practice in Intuitive Counseling, Energy Medicine, Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine toTLC address the root cause of your issue. Stamford 203-359-9736 ◊ Norwalk Center 203-856-9566 Formerly one of the leading healing practitioners at Canyon Ranch. Sessions are in-person or via phone. soulcentered@mac.com
203-292-9869
soul-centered-healing.com
eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
17
healthbriefs CHIROPRACTIC PHYSICIANS URGE NON-PHARMACOLOGIC TREATMENTS FOR PAIN AMID OPIOID EPIDEMIC
D
uring National Chiropractic Health Month (NCHM) in October, the American Chiropractic Association (ACA) will bring attention to the public health crisis caused by pain and, in particular, the overuse of prescription painkillers, with the theme #PainFreeNation. The campaign is part of the chiropractic profession’s ongoing efforts to educate the public about the value of exhausting conservative forms of care for both acute and chronic pain before resorting to higher risk options, such as opioids. “Opioid medications involve the risk of overuse and addiction. Beyond this, prescription drugs that numb pain may convince a patient that a musculoskeletal condition is less severe than it is, or that it has healed. This misunderstanding can lead to overexertion and a delay in the healing process or even to permanent injury,” explains ACA President Anthony Hamm, DC. Hamm notes that people in pain should be informed of all management strategies, including non-drug approaches such as chiropractic, to reduce their risk of overuse and addiction. “Each patient is unique, and care plans should be tailored to focus on what is the safest, most effective treatment for the individual. Chiropractic physicians stand ready to work together with medical physicians to help address this epidemic that has caused unnecessary suffering, enormous loss of human potential and massive financial and personal costs,” he adds. Fortunately, health care quality organizations have begun to recognize the value of this conservative, multidisciplinary approach. Earlier this year, the Joint Commission – which certifies more than 20,000 health care organizations and programs in the United States, including every major hospital – revised its pain management standard to include chiropractic services and acupuncture. Clinical experts in pain management who provide input to the commission’s standards affirmed that treatment strategies may consider both pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic approaches.
U.S. Kids Not Drinking Enough Liquids
A
2015 study from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control has found that more than half of American children are dehydrated. The research analyzed data from the 2009-2012 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey for children 6 to 19 years old. The study also found that boys have a 76 percent greater likelihood of being dehydrated, and African-Americans were 34 percent more likely to not drink enough water compared with U.S. Caucasians. “Dehydration accounts for hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations each year due to a number of illnesses that can lead to depletion of fluids and electrolytes from the body,” says Dr. Daniel Rauch, associate professor of The American Chiropractic Association is the largest professional association in the pediatrics at the Mount Sinai School of United States representing doctors of chiropractic. For more info visit ACAToday.org. Medicine, in New York City. HVWS_ParentChild_NatAwake_4.75x2.25_Sept2015_HVS PM K_CT par 2007 9/10/15 9:09 PM Page It can be difficult for parents to gauge the level of hydration in children. Researchers from the University of Arkansas have determined that urine color provides a reliable indicator of hydration levels, with darker urine indicating increasing levels of dehydration. MORNING GLORIES
Share Your Child’s Childhood Parent-Child Classes Tuesdays or Thursdays 9:30 - 11:30am
40 Dodgingtown Rd., Newtown, CT 06470 203.364.1113 • www.waldorfct.org Accredited by CAIS and AWSNA FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT:
18
Fairfield County Edition
www.waldorfct.org/parentchild
natural awakenings
Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much. ~Helen Keller
Relief of Stress and Pain with Acupuncture
actionalert Vaccine Cover-Up
A
cupuncture is a safe, all-natural, drug-free therapy which has no side effects. It is gentle and effective, and helpful for many conditions and complaints. Many times the physical manifestations of stress are tightness, muscle knots, and neck and upper back pain. Tightness in the upper back and neck can slow down the circulation of blood and energy in the area, causing energy stagnation. In addition, as the neck becomes tight and painful, the pain can move upward, causing headaches, teeth grinding and jaw pain. It can also move downward and cause back pain and tightness, wreaking havoc with your sleep, health, attitude and even your ability to back the car out of the driveway. Back pain is one of the top reasons people seek medical treatment, including acupuncture. In addition to stress, some of the top causes of back pain are sprains – which can occur when one or more of the ligaments in the back is overstretched – and strains. The latter occurs when sudden force rips or tears a muscle; this can be caused by an injury, poor posture or improper lifting. Acupuncture is effective for acute and chronic back pain. Back pain limits range of motion and complicates daily activities. Some back pain is accompanied by tingling and burning; acupuncture treatments can be helpful for those conditions as well. Because of its position and range of motion, and because it plays a vital role in the support of the head, the neck is more susceptible to injury than any other portion of the spine. Neck pain can be mild enough so that it is a mere annoyance, or severe enough that it can adversely affect the quality of your life. Common causes for a stiff neck include poor posture, stress, auto accidents or sports/exercise-related strains, hard physical work, holding the neck and/or shoulders in a certain posture for too long or in an unnatural position, sleeping without proper head support, or even exposure of the neck to a cold draft. Chronic infections, flu, Lyme disease and other conditions can also include neck pain symptoms. Acupuncture can quickly relieve the painful burning and tension of a stiff neck. Often relief is felt at the first treatment, and usually only a few treatments are required. The modality is relevant and helpful for shoulder issues as well. Local point sites are treated and include points at the neck area, where relieving the extra tension provides immediate improvement. There are so many tendons and connecting tissue structures that enable the movement of the neck and arms; you also store your stress and concern there. In many cases, acupuncture has worked for patients whose conditions did not respond to conventional approaches. When long-standing pain or injuries are the cause, then more treatments will be needed. Your acupuncturist will look at your whole health history, sports traumas, falls, bumps and bruises, as well as all other illnesses. Acupuncture can help reduce the residual effects that linger, sometimes for years. Ingri Boe-Wiegaard, owner of CT Acupuncture Center and a licensed acupuncturist, has been serving Fairfield, Bethel and Wilton for more than 30 years. Call 203-259-1660 or visit CTAcupuncture.com for more information. See ad, page 55.
Congress Fails to Respond to Centers for Disease Control Whistleblower On July 29, Congressman Bill Posey, a Republican representing Florida’s eighth district, took to the U.S. House floor to discuss possible changes in how the medical community views vaccines. According to documents cited in Posey’s testimony, Dr. William Thompson, a vaccine safety researcher for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), revealed to Posey that he attended a meeting in which he was directed to destroy data in the CDC’s research that demonstrated a clear link between the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine and autism. Understanding the gravity of this directive, Thompson reported that he had retained copies of the documents, which he gave to Posey, along with other records that demonstrate fraud within the CDC’s vaccine safety research. Posey pleaded on the House floor, “Mr. Speaker, I believe it’s our duty to ensure that the documents Dr. Thompson provided are not ignored. Therefore, I will provide them to members of Congress and the House committees upon request. Considering the nature of the whistleblower’s documents, as well as the involvement of the CDC, a hearing and a thorough investigation is warranted.” As of press time, Congress had taken no action to address Posey’s testimony. To demand hearings, contact the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman, Representative Jason Chaffetz, at 202-2257751 or OpenCongress.org/people/ show/412270; or the Homeland Security and Government Operations Committee Chairman, Senator Ron Johnson, at 202-224-5323 or Open Congress.org/people/show/412496_ Ron_Johnson. Find local representatives at OpenCongress.org/people.
eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
19
therapyspotlight
BACK-TO-SCHOOL VISION
A
s school gets underway, many children may struggle in school because of undiagnosed vision problems. “Parents often confuse a school or pediatric screening with a comprehensive eye examination,” notes Dr. Randy Schulman, a functional and behavioral optometrist. “20/20 vision is only one part of seven essential visual skills that are required for reading and healthy vision.” Most parents can detect eyes turning in or out (a condition called strabismus) but, unfortunately, many other serious conditions have no outward appearance. Those suffering silently will often avoid near work and/or display frustration while reading or doing homework. “The worst is when parents
mistake a vision deficiency for laziness or unwillingness to work. These kids get punished for a problem they didn’t create, and they learn to hate reading when it should be a joyful thing” says Dr. Jason Rutherford, a behavioral and primary care optometrist for Eyecare Associates, PC, in Connecticut. Some of the visual skills required for school include getting and keeping things clear, moving the eyes across the page, and using the eyes as a team. Optometrists specializing in developmental vision can identify problems – such as oculomotor deficiency, accommodative insufficiency and convergence insufficiency – which can be thought of as poor motor control over the eyes. Just
Your Partners in Health and Wellness
Naturopathic Medicine • Dental Hygiene Chiropractic • Acupunture University of Bridgeport Health Sciences Center 60 Lafayette Street, Bridgeport, CT 06604 203-576-4349 • www.bridgeport.edu\ubclinics 20
Fairfield County Edition
natural awakenings
as gross and fine motor skills need to be developed in order to have good handwriting, the eyes go through a similar process in their development. When the eye-brain connection is not developed, eye muscle control is not coordinated properly and blurred vision, double vision and visual fatigue may result. “Often, kids don’t report seeing double or blurred print as they think that is how everyone sees,” says Schulman. “Parents and educators do not recognize the impact poor visual skills have on reading, writing, and learning.” Good visual skills are required in order to sustain focus and track words for reading and writing. Detection of the problem is just one step. Vision therapy is recommended for most patients with vision disorders such as convergence insufficiency. A wellknown National Eye Institute study, the Convergence Insufficiency Treatment Trial, found that nearly 75 percent of those who received in-office vision therapy by a trained therapist and at-home treatment reported fewer and less severe symptoms related to reading and near work. “Not only are symptoms abated but self-esteem improves as they realize that they are smart but have a vision problem that can be fixed,” says Schulman. Here are the visual skills needed to pass an evaluation: • Move the eyes and look at a target • Get and keep things clear • Point the eyes on targets close and far • Use the eyes as a team • Make sense of what is seen • Coordinate the eyes with the hand and body • Use vision to communicate Signs of a vision difficulty can include: • Slow reading • Getting close to books • Blinking and squinting • Poor handwriting • Poor balance and coordination • Poor attention and distractibility • Fatigue and difficulty sustaining tasks • Difficulty organizing tasks and activities Visit CTEyecareAssociates.com. Eyecare Associates has three offices in Fairfield County: Trumbull, Norwalk and Southport. See ad, page 14.
171 Amity Road, Bethany CT 06524 l 203.874.4252 l info@learn.edu
CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS:
Ecotherapy Positive Psychology Integrative Health and Healing Applied Storytelling Coach Training Consciousness, Transformation and Mindfulness
MASTER OF ARTS DEGREES:
Integrative Health and Healing Organizational Leadership Learning and Thinking Writing and the Oral Tradition Consciousness Studies
eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
21
Detect critical health issues 8-10 years BEFORE mammograms with Thermal Imaging
globalbriefs News and resources to inspire concerned citizens to work together in building a healthier, stronger society that benefits all.
United in Utah
Parliament of World Religions Gathering
inflammation
• 100% safe & FDA-registered • Safe for implants, mastectomy & pregnancy • No radiation or painful breast compression • Monitor & assess pain & pathology anywhere on the body
Call (203) 856-1421 or visit
www.AlbaThermalImaging.com
The 2015 Parliament of the World’s Religions, regarded by organizers as the oldest, largest and most inclusive gathering of all faiths and traditions, will be held from October 15 to 19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center, in Salt Lake City. International spiritual leaders will come together to share wisdom and best practices in dealing with critical global issues, especially climate change and care for creation; income inequality and wasteful consumption; and war, violence and hate speech. Leading speakers include the Dalai Lama, Karen Armstrong, Tariq Ramadan, Mairead Maguire, Jim Wallis, Oscar Arias Sanchez, Eboo Patel, Vandana Shiva and Michael Bernard Beckwith. Attendees can also participate in a Women’s Assembly and Program Initiative; training in dialogue, interfaith activism, fundraising and organizing; musical performances and film showings; breakout sessions; and networking opportunities. Cost: $200 to $550, based on date of registration. Discounts and housing options are available for families, groups, organizations and students, along with scholarship and sponsorship opportunities. For more information or to register, email 2015@ParliamentOfReligions.org or visit ParliamentOfReligions.org.
Story Glory
National Festival Celebrates the Art of Storytelling
Each one of us can
make a difference. Together we make change. ~Barbara Mikulski
Mix public speaking, acting, comedy and music and we get the performance art of storytelling, practiced by the likes of Mark Twain and Garrison Keillor. The largest related celebration is the 43rd annual International Storytelling Festival, held from October 2 through 4 this year in Jonesborough, Tennessee. More than 15 award-winning storytellers scheduled include Kim Weitkamp, who mixes humorous personal and family stories and original songs; Charlotte Blake Alston, who tells traditional and contemporary stories of African and African-American oral culture, accompanied by native instruments; and Andy Offutt Irwin, known for his mouth noises and the adventures of his 85-year-old Aunt Marguerite Van Camp. Attendees can also tell stories at Story Slam! and Swappin’ Ground events and workshops. Festival producer the International Storytelling Center, together with the Library of Congress and American Folklife Center, also conducts a 26week Teller-in-Residence training program. Storytelling is not only mentally challenging, it facilitates family and community bonding in a highly social and entertaining format. For more information and preregistration, visit StorytellingCenter.net.
22
Fairfield County Edition
natural awakenings
L inc ose he 3-9 sn ow !
SLIM SHAPE TONE
Lose 3-9 Inches Permanently - In As Little As 3 Weeks! Non-invasive • No Pain • No Downtime No Side Effects • Super Safe • Immediate Results Eliminate Fat . . . Without Surgery body sculpting
Advanced Slimming Technology Delivering Immediate Results
Mind-Body Transformation Hypnosis Center 203-595-0110 mindbodytransformation.com 1177 High Ridge Road, Stamford, CT
Warnings Heeded
New York State Bans Fracking The Empire State has now officially banned fracking after a seven-year review process. New York Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Joe Martens states, “After exhaustive research and examination of the science and facts, prohibiting high-volume hydraulic fracturing is the only reasonable alternative. Highvolume hydraulic fracturing poses significant adverse impacts to land, air, water, natural resources and potential significant public health impacts that cannot be adequately mitigated.” A findings statement concludes, “There are no feasible or prudent alternatives that adequately avoid or minimize adverse environmental impacts and address risks to public health from this activity.” Two groups heavily involved in the campaign, New Yorkers Against Fracking and Americans Against Fracking, praised the decision. Industry groups have threatened to sue, but the attorneys at Earthjustice (Earthjustice.org) are confident that the New York Department of Environmental Conservation’s exhaustive review will withstand any legal challenges and the nonprofit pledges to stand alongside the state in case of such actions. Vermont outlawed the practice in 2012. Source: EcoWatch.com
Beautiful Color Shouldn't Be Hazardous To Your Health The best thing about our products is what we leave out! No Ammonia • No Parabens No Scalp Staining • No Scalp Discomfort Best Eco Salon
838 Main Street • Monroe • Tollgate Plaza Tues & Fri 9-5 • Wed & Thur 9-8 • Sat 8-4
203-261-2838 SalonAponte.com
make-up
Summer ends, and autumn comes, and he who would have it otherwise would have high tide always and a full moon every night. ~Hal Borland
The Specialists in Natural Medicine We Listen to Your Concerns & Focus On Addressing the Root Cause of Your Condition
Fatigue • Weight Gain • Male & Female Hormone Imbalances GI (gut) Issues • Lyme Disease Autoimmune Disorders: Multiple Sclerosis, Lupus, Hashimoto’s, Thyroiditis, and more Call 203-864-5762 to schedule a Dr. Salvatore Fiorentino Naturopathic Physician 15-minute Complimentary Consultation The Center for www.DrSFiorentino.com Natural Health, LLC info@TheCenterForNaturalHealth.com 163 Main Street, Westport, CT 06880 eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
23
globalbriefs
actionalert
Making Strides
Immediate Need
Shawn Anderson’s mission is to empower 1 million people to answer the question, “Why live a life that is unfulfilling?” He created Extra Mile Day held on November 1 to remind people that they each have the power to create positive changes in families, organizations and communities when they go the extra mile. This year, more than 400 mayors have committed to supporting the event to make an Extra Mile Day declaration. In 2009, Anderson pedaled solo across the U.S. and interviewed 200 people that had gone the extra mile to overcome dramatic setbacks or had risked everything in order to accomplish something extraordinary. He says, “I was thrilled when 23 mayors supported the mission in that inaugural year.” His Facebook page now boasts 20,000 fans.
By now millions of people have been displaced by violence in countries like Syria and Iraq, leaving everything behind in search of safety. Many of them—including children—have died trying to find refuge; this year alone, some 2,500 people have died or disappeared trying to cross the Mediterranean Sea, according to CNN. Meanwhile, Americans have been watching news of the crisis with a mixture of emotions: horror at the scope of the human tragedy unfolding before them, and frustration at their inability to help from half a world away. But it is possible for Americans to help. The best way, experts say, is to donate to one of the well-vetted charitable organizations directly providing food, shelter or medical aid to the people in crisis.
Submit a story at ExtraMileAmerica.org and visit Facebook.com/ExtraMileAmerica.
CNN has compiled a list of reputable organizations. Visit tinyurl.com/helpSR to learn more.
November 1 is Extra Mile Day
Saving Lives in Crisis
Sundays at 10:30 am
3 Main St, 2nd Floor, Norwalk, CT 06851 (203) 855-7922 www.unitycenternorwalk.org
Open Mic Night 3rd Saturday Each Month
HALLOWEEN SPOOK-TACULAR Best Costume $100 Cash
d ay Saturer 31st b Octo 11 pm 7-
Scariest & Funniest Costumes Each win Restaurant Gift Certificates Monster Mash Dance Off Winner gets 2 FREE Tickets to Unity Center’s Open Mic Night
Order your tickets online @ unitycenternorwalk.org or call 203.855.7922
24
Fairfield County Edition
natural awakenings
ecotip Tree Houses
Wildlife Thrives in Dead and Fallen Trees Gathering winter firewood or felling dead trees may be a necessary chore, but it’s best to avoid fallen or snag trees (still upright and decomposing naturally) because they are home to woodland and backyard wildlife. Many types of birds, including woodpeckers, chickadees, bluebirds, nuthatches, owls, wrens and tree swallows and small mammals like raccoons, squirrels, opossums and porcupines use the cavities and crevices for shelter, food (in some cases, dining on congregating invertebrates like millipedes, beetles, spiders, worms and ants), mating, nesting and resting. The U.S. Forest Service says that some 1,200 forms of flora, including mosses, lichens and fungi, rely on dead, dying or rotted-hollow trees and serve to refresh habitat by returning vital nutrients to the soil via the nitrogen cycle. Decaying logs on the forest floor also act as “nurse logs” for new seedlings. Likewise, it’s good to respect brush piles of mainly fallen limbs and sticks. “These are wonderful hiding places for squirrels, rabbits and chipmunks,” reports Woodrow Nelson, a vice president with the nonprofit Arbor Day Foundation (ArborDay.org), in Lincoln, Nebraska, which serves to plant, nurture and celebrate trees. It’s best to identify existing and future snags prior to gathering firewood or timber to spare their accidental destruction. Long-dead trees are fairly easy to spot, with their bony limbs bereft of leaves. Snags-to-be require more review. Look for signs of disease or misshapen form: bracket fungi, rotting branch stubs, beetles, carpenter ants or broken main limbs. Nelson further advises, “Proper pruning can turn around a tree’s health.” He encourages consulting with a local certified arborist or the foundation’s Backyard Woods program. Keeping one or more snags in a yard can create wildlife refuges. According to the National Wildlife Federation (NWF.org), hardwood trees tend to make better nesting habitats, while softer woods are more suited for food foraging. As long as the wood is kept a reasonable distance from a home, termites and other pests won’t find their way between the two dwellings.
Natural
Healthcare Alternatives Family Based Chiropractic Care
Specializing In Infants, Children, and Pre and Postnatal Women
Pre and Postnatal Women
Back, Pelvic, Neck, Shoulder, and Arm Pain • Headaches Carpal Tunnel Syndrome • Improve spinal and pelvic alignment to help babies in the breech or occiput posterior "sunny side up" presentations • Reduce The Incidence of C-Section
Children
Ear Infections • Asthma & Allergies • Scoliosis • Colic Reflux • ADHD • Sports Injuries • Torticollis Lactation Issues / Tongue-Tie Complications
Dr. Risa M. Sloves
Dr. Sloves has 25 years of experience and is one of the only Chiropractic Physicians in Connecticut with Board Certification in Maternity and Pediatric Care.
Call 203-838-1555
Associates in Family Chiropractic 156 East Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06851 www.ctChiropractic.com
PAINTING & HOME IMPROVEMENT
Interior & Exterior Painting - Decks indow & Door Installations - Basements Additions - Fencing - Siding - Sheetrock Interior & Exterior Roof Repairs Power Wash - Gutter Cleaning Complete Bathroom & Kitchen Remodeling
Ask about our environmentally friendly paint options
�����-
@9
��
Connect. Trade. Sove.
888.294.6393 fairfield. itex.com eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
25
healingways
NATURAL MOOD BOOSTERS Safe Alternatives to Antidepressants by Kathleen Barnes
S
adness darkens the world of the 16 percent of Americans diagnosed with clinical depression and the untold millions more that try to cope without a formal diagnosis, according to a University of Colorado study published in Clinical Therapeutics. Just as daunting, an estimated 30 million Americans take prescription antidepressant drugs for premenstrual discomfort, chronic pain and anxiety, as well as depression, according to Dr. James Gordon, a clinical professor of psychiatry at the Georgetown University School of Medicine. He founded and directs the Center for Mind-Body Medicine, in Washington, D.C., and is the renowned author of Unstuck: Your Guide to the Seven-Stage Journey Out of Depression. While conventional medicine offers a smorgasbord of antidepressants, many are ineffective or produce harmful side effects. One University of Pennsylvania study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found scant evidence that they benefit people with mild to moderate depression because the drugs work no better than a placebo in at least 80 percent of cases. Side effects of traditional antidepressants included nausea, headaches, weight gain, insomnia, sexual dysfunction, agitation, irritability, anxiety and even violent behavior and suicidal thoughts, according to the University of Colorado research involving more than 40,000 patients. It further showed that nearly 70 percent of patients stop taking the prescription drugs within three months, largely because of intolerable reactions. Some safer and healthier alternatives exist. “We know that depression is more a symptom than a diagnosis,” says Dr. Hyla Cass, author of numerous related books, including Natural Highs. “It’s a sign of imbalance in biochemistry, caused by any number of factors that we can determine and
26
Fairfield County Edition
natural awakenings
often correct using the right approach.”
Effective Supplements
Curcumin, the rhizome of the turmeric plant that gives curry powder its distinctive yellow color, addresses both the symptoms of depression and its underlying causes, says Ajay Goel, Ph.D., director of the Baylor Center for Gastrointestinal Research, in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. A recent study by Goel in Phytotherapy Research showed that this natural spice helps generate new, properly functioning brain cells that manufacture mood-elevating neurotransmitters. Along with being as effective as Prozac (fluoxetine) without the side effects, curcumin can neutralize the suicidal thoughts and violent behavior sometimes displayed in people with major depression taking prescription antidepressants. “We also know that prescription antidepressants become less effective the longer you take them,” says Goel. “Curcumin doesn’t lose its effectiveness over time.” Rhodiola rosea, the well-researched root of an Arctic plant, has brought relief even to some of Cass’ severely depressed patients. Cass points to its ability to help balance stress hormones and stimulate production of the feel-good brain chemical serotonin, much like the claims of prescription drugs, but without any known side effects. A new study published in Phytomedicine confirms that rhodiola is at least as effective as the prescription antidepressant Zoloft (sertraline) in fighting major depression. Cass also recommends 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan), an extract of the seeds of an African shrub that produces the critical serotonin with no negative side effects. A recent Indian study from the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences comparing the effects of 5-HTP and Prozac confirms that “5-HTP definitely has antidepressant effects in patients with depression.”
A Holistic Approach
An integrative approach that emphasizes physical activity and a meditation or other spiritual practice can be highly effective in treating all levels of depression, according to Gordon. “It’s a way to get unstuck, to help us move through and beyond depression and other difficulties in our lives,” he says. Exercise triggers rises in mood at least equal to those generated by antidepressant prescription drugs, according to new Duke University research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. People that are depressed often don’t want to move, Gordon comments. “Start with what you can do. Walking a couple of blocks a day is a good beginning.” He notes, “I teach specific meditation techniques such as slow, deep, soft-belly breathing and mindful walking and eating. All have been shown to decrease levels of anxiety and stress, enhance mood and optimism, and promote greater emotional stability and more reliable judgment.” A healthful diet emphasizing vegetables, fruit and healthy fats; strong support from friends and family; creative activities; and connecting with a higher power comprise Gordon’s integrative prescription for a happy life. Kathleen Barnes is author of numerous natural health books, including Food Is Medicine. Connect at KathleenBarnes.com.
®
How to Step Away from Antidepressants by Hyla Cass
N
ever stop taking prescription antidepressants cold turkey. Intense depression and other dangerous side effects might result. It can cause severe depression, anxiety, intense agitation and even suicidal thinking. As suggested in my book, The Addicted Brain and How to Break Free, it’s best to slowly wean off the medication with the help of a qualified prescribing healthcare practitioner. The process may take several months, but it’s time well spent and safer. n Consistently eat a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, healthy fats and clean protein. n To help create a firm nutritional base, add a basic supplementation program with a good multivitamin, vitamin C, optimal amounts of B vitamins and omega-3 fats like those found in clean fish oil. n Consider supplementing with curcumin, rhodiola or 5-HTP to ease the transition.
Colour Systems
For beautiful hair color and highlights… Briana Salon
15 Square Acre Drive • Stamford, CT 06905 203.329.3998 • www.brianasalon.com
Instead of... grasping for bandaids, treating symptoms only, or resigning yourself to suffering . . . discover you can heal your inner wounds fully and to the root.
A rare weave of deep therapeutic and grounded spiritual
Judith Barr, LPC, LMHC ... Healing to the Root 30+ Years Experience • Depth Psychotherapist • Midwife to the Soul • Professional Training/Supervision • Speaker PO Box 603, Brookfield, CT 06804 203-775-5006 JudithBarr@PowerAbusedPowerHealed.com
To learn more, please visit www.judithbarr.com
GMOs Link to Depression Monsanto’s genetically modified organisms (GMO) go hand-inhand with the company’s patented Roundup-ready crops, and therein lie the seeds of depression, says Jeffrey Smith, founding executive director of the Institute for Responsible Technology and producer of the award-winning documentary, Genetic Roulette: The Gamble of Our Lives. Several studies—beginning with one published by German researchers in 1980 and most recently reinforced by Massachusetts Institute of Technology scientists—show that glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup weed killer, ingested with our food, disrupts the shikimate pathway. “Monsanto has bragged for years that the shikimate pathway is why Roundup kills plants, but has no impact in humans, since we don’t have the shikimate pathway,” says Smith. But our gut bacteria do use this pathway to produce the amino acid building blocks for mood-lifting brain chemicals. “Since glyphosate blocks the shikimate pathway, it can impair the ability of intestinal bacteria to produce the ingredients for the production of the neurotransmitters serotonin, melotonin and dopamine. Their deficiencies are linked to depression and other serious health problems,” he explains. Consumers need to understand that Roundup is sprayed on nearly all GMO crops to control weeds, and the doses continue to increase; it’s further used on wheat, rye, rice, lentils, barley and numerous other non-organic crops just before harvest to accelerate drying. Glyphosate has been widely found in water, rain and air samples, plus in breast milk, blood and urine, meaning virtually everyone has been exposed to this toxic chemical.
Althea DePascale
Intuitive Life Coach • Clairvoyant • Psychic Medium Available for appointments in Westport, or by telephone. Call 860 677-8750 or 860 559-3695. Gifted from childhood, I am a highly respected and skilled clairvoyant, intuitive life coach, and psychic medium as well as past life reader and facilitator.
My internationally based clients are from all walks of life. They include medical doctors, attorneys, social workers, teachers, nurses, athletes, widely recognized high profile artists and public figures such as actors.
www.AltheaDePascale.com • ACDePascale@comcast.net eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
27
yogabriefs Flow to Fit Yoga Opens New Studio in Southbury
A ɲɧɴɩɾ ˪ɪ ɦɨɷɪɩ Deana Paqua, MA, LMT
Լ
shamanic healer, reiki master, spiritual teacher & holistic health educator
ridgefield & new milford ct
www.embodythesacred.net
deana.paqua@gmail.com Ph. 203.994.5045
Massage Therapy
The Gift of Relaxation Specializing in: Swedish • Pregnancy • Injury • Infant Trigger Point • CranioSacral Therapy
Robin Ordan, LMT 203-561-8535
www.robinordanlmt.com Located on the Old Greenwich/Stamford Border
145 Grassy Plain St. Bethel, CT
Soul Focus
Fairfield County Edition
To learn more about the services and class schedule, visit FlowtoFitYoga.com or call 203-910-3141.
Yoga Event to Benefit St. Jude Children’s Hospital
A
ll proceeds from the 8th Annual Dharma Yoga Maha Sadhana will go directly to benefit the children and families of St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Taking place on November 7 from 6:30-9:30pm in Milford, this is Sri Dharma Mittra’s signature workshop given by Yogi Brian Buturla. Dharma I-IV it is a challenging, meditative sequence that involves complete movement of the spine. Guided deep relaxation, pranayama, a spiritual talk and the Asana Satsang Jam joyous dance will be included. Full kirtan with Sita’s Light will also be included. “In the classical yoga tradition, the goal is to become one with God, nature and all beings,” says Buturla, the owner of Yogi Brian’s Classical Yoga Studio in Norwalk. Named, initiated and 800-hour-certified by Sri Yogi Dharma Mittra, Buturla offers therapeutic rehabilitative yoga, group yoga classes and private yoga instruction. For more information, visit YogiBrian.com and Clients.MindBodyOnline.com/classic/home?studioid=8677 to register for the workshop. Location: TRANQUILITY Mind and Body Wellness Spa, Troy Brook Medical Center, 88 Noble Ave, Milford.
Mela Rispoli 203-570-3868 mrispoli2@aol.com 28
mie Meleshkewich, E-RYT 200, CPT, has spent the last five years traveling to private homes, gyms and studios teaching yoga, Pilates and strength training to clients. Meleshkewich has now opened a new studio, located at 7-E Garage Road, Southbury. Flow to Fit Yoga includes a reception room, consultation office and strength training room in addition to a large room for group classes and circuit training. “The goal of the new studio was to create a tranquil, serene environment with minimal distractions so clients can stay focused and get the most out of their sessions,” says Meleshkewich. “I am dedicated to helping my clients build strength, increase flexibility, improve cardiovascular health, lose weight and manage stress.” The studio offers private yoga, Pilates, strength training and meditation sessions for those not comfortable in a gym or group setting or with physical limitations and chronic pain. Private and group classes are available throughout the week.
natural awakenings
Letting Go of Perfection On and Off the Mat by Nina Antolino
A
re you a perfectionist? “No,” you might say, “I just like things to be a certain way; what’s wrong with pursuing excellence? I put 150 percent into everything I do.” Before you discount the possibility that perfectionism may have an exceptionally strong grip on you, ask yourself these questions: n Do you find yourself doing something repetitively until you get it “just right”? Perhaps you do not even try or procrastinate because you don’t think you will do it perfectly? n Do you continually strive for an unachievable goal and then beat yourself up because you couldn’t reach it? n Do you compare yourself to others then feel inadequate? n Do you measure your worth against some long to-do list or your ability to be productive, do more, multitask and then feel like you are not doing enough because you didn’t accomplish it all? n Do you feel guilty or uneasy if you relax – even just for a little while – believing you are wasting precious time and energy when you “should” be getting things done? Perfectionism is characterized by a person striving for flawlessness and setting excessively high performance standards, accompanied by overly critical self-evaluation and concerns regarding how others may judge them. It is often triggered by an inner compulsion to overcome a deep sense of perceived inadequacy, which shows up in many ways; it can manifest as an obsession with body image, a “Type A” approach to work, a lack of balance and satisfaction in your life, physical illness due to ongoing self-perpetuated stress and, yes, it can even show up on your yoga mat.
Striving for excellence and having the internal motivation to achieve one’s goal with laser-like focus can be a good thing. But when it becomes an obsession for perfection, it can have a negative impact on your body, mind and soul. You can be so quick in your pace toward perfection that you lose connection to mindfully living your life and being your authentic self. Under the guise of the pursuit of excellence, perfectionism robs the very essence and creative ability to achieve your greatness. From an early age, many learn that pleasing those around you – parents, teachers and friends – is more important that standing in your own truth. You disconnect from your own inner knowing and find your worth inside others’ approvals, standards or opinions of you. Wellintentioned adults believe if they just push you harder, you will realize your potential. You come to believe that who you are is based on what you do - or rather, what you do (exceptionally) well. You learn that who you are is defined by scores and grades. What if your gifts and talents cannot be measured by SAT scores or grade point averages? What if who you really are has nothing to do with your intellect but more to do with your heart? You continue to strive and strive and run faster and faster to some ephemeral goal that may have little resemblance to what you really want or who you started your life path being. Eventually you become so ensnared in this perfectionist, constantly striving Type A role that it is difficult to find your way back onto your authentic path. Your practice on the mat is a transformational opportunity to notice how perfectionism and striving can take hold of your life. You often come to the mat with the hope of feeling more connected, more relaxed, balanced and alive. And yet, you often see this constant striving for some perfect pose and dissatisfaction/frustration when you cannot achieve this idealist shape you are trying to emulate. You find yourself performing and comparing yourself to others and using that as a means to either feel good… or judge for being “not good enough”. You lose touch with feeling your way through your practice and rather force your way through, trying to conquer a pose, at the risk of injury and pain. Have you then lost the essence of what you came to the mat to experience? It has been said, “If it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you.” But HOW you approach the challenges you face can either help you grow or keep you stuck. As Gurmukh Kaur Khalsa offers, “Yoga is not about self- improvement, it is about self-acceptance.” It is about finding the balance between effort and effortlessness, embracing your yin and yang energies of doing and being. It’s about letting your ego take a back seat and releasing your struggle against your body. There is a reason why they call it a ‘practice” and not a “perfect.” As in other areas of life, when you get so caught up in doing it perfectly, you lose touch with the enjoyment of it. Yoga is a discipline but is also about being light-hearted and having fun. It is a science, but it is also an Art that is creative, expressive and organic, since everyone’s body is different with unique gifts and limitations. It simultaneously offers you the opportunity to challenge yourself eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
29
to grow, while meeting yourself wherever you are with mindfulness, compassion and acceptance. Nina Antolino is owner of LP-Limitless Potential, LLC, coaching & consulting and LifePath Yoga & Wellness. She jokingly refers to herself as a recovering Type A, perfectionist. Her path has led her from Structural Engineer, to Global Leadership Development Manager, to Consultant and now Yoga Instructor, Empowerment Life Coach, Reiki Master. She believes her perfectionism is what inadvertently led her toward this more authentic path and it is why she is committed to help empower each person to do the same. Nina’s wake up call came in the form of a chronic illness 15 years ago at the height of her corporate career. “My body had completely broken down on me and with it, my whole way of seeing myself came crashing down. I was finally diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and forced to take a short term medical leave. My life as I knew it would be changed forever.” She found herself at the Omega Institute for a weeklong Mindfulness Meditation for Stress Reduction by Jon Kabit Zinn. Several months later, she was back for a 200 hour Yoga Teacher Training program. This was when she first learned the power of slowing down, letting go of control, and finding her way back to a more authentic path. “The very first day the instructors emphasized the importance of learning how to be a C student. I had no idea what that meant. I was never happy unless I was an A student. It was the single most important lesson I learned in that training. Letting go of doing it perfectly and accepting where I was.” After years in the holistic health field, Nina has realized her vision and opened LifePath Yoga & Wellness, 430 Main Ave, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. Life Path’s mission is to help each person embrace their own unique path and offer personalized, integrated mind-body tools to embrace their full potential. See ad, page 31.
30
Fairfield County Edition
natural awakenings
Ten A’s
Attributes to Cultivate Your Full Potential
A
s we let go of our perfectionistic Type A approach on our mat, we can embrace the 10 Attributes for living with greater balance, harmony and authenticity on our Life Path.
Inner Yin Attributes of Being: 1. AWARENESS is the foundation to your lifelong journey. It begins with Mindfulness. It is your ability to clearly see things (yourself and the world around) as they really are, with compassion. 2. ACCEPTANCE is letting go of resistance or fighting against your experience and embracing where you are- freeing up energy to create what you wish, with non-judgment. 3. APPRECIATION is looking for what is right, and being grateful for each experience. 4. AUTHENTICITY is discovering your own truth. Speaking and acting with integrity- being true to yourself. 5. ATTITUDE leave your attitude and ego at the door. Embrace a positive, inspiring viewpoint and can-do attitude. Outer Yang Attributes of Doing: 6. ACCOUNTABILITY is taking responsibility for your own growth and ultimately the fulfillment of your life. 7. ASPIRATION is creating a compelling meaningful vision for your life, dream big and know that each step toward your vision is an important aspect of your journey. 8. ALIGNMENT is living in integrity, aligning words and actions, personal, organizational and group goals. 9. ACTION is from a place of centeredness, knowing which actions take you toward vision and move your life forward. Take consistent small steps and actions that align with your inner passion and truth. 10. ACTUALIZATION is realizing your full potential.
Mastering
YOGA
The yoga community in Fairfield and lower Litchfield counties has never been more vibrant! This new section provides interested readers with connections to studios and teachers in the area, as well as helpful editorial to support their efforts to improve their practice.
New Studio
Grand Opening!
430 Main Ave, 2nd Floor, Norwalk
Your Personal Path to Wellness Private & Group Classes: Yoga (various styles, levels & specialties) Mindfulness Meditation Reiki & Mindful Healing Life/Business Coaching Corporate Wellness Holistic Seminars/Workshops
Explore & Realize Personal Potential Through Body-Mind-Soul Balance Private Yoga Instruction Reiki • Guided Meditation Personal & Professional Coaching Carrie A. Picardi, Ph.D. Psychologist Reiki Master Teacher RYT-200 Yoga Teacher
Yo g a a n d W e l l n e s s
Nina Antolino RYT, RMT, MBA 203-354-7070 | nina@lifepathyoga.net
203-858-4440 carrie@soulfulfillment.net www.soulfulfillment.net
www.Limitless-potential.net
No pretense, just authenticity….
Your studio could be featured here Reach over 60,000 Natural Awakenings readers by placing your ad here. Call for more info.
Kripalu Gentle Kundalini Vinyasa Prenatal 40 + Classes a Week! All Levels A Diverse Selection of Workshops 200 Hour RYT Teacher Training 30 Days/$30 Introductory Offer 50% Student Discounts
203-885-4674
(203) 254-YOGA 27 Unquowa Rd. Fairfield, CT 06824 www.yoga4everybody.net eNaturalAwakenings.com eNaturalAwakenings.comOctober July2015 2015
3131
AWAKENING THE GLOBAL HEART Compassionate Activists Unite to Write Earth’s New Story by Linda Sechrist
A
s individuals and in groups, more people today are expressing deep inner caring and compassion for fellow humans and all life on this planet by hitching their heartfelt energies to powerful actions that hold the promise of a sustainable future. In This Changes Everything: Capitalism vs. The Climate, author Naomi Klein attests that the power of ferocious love is underestimated by companies and their government advocates. Suggesting that climate change be considered a framework for broader social improvements instead of a single issue, she invites “seizing the moment of discontent” to advance healing the planet and its broken economies and communities. Stories about how ordinary people are energizing local and online communities of practice to improve intergenerational communication, eliminate monetary influence in politics and restore
32
Fairfield County Edition
democracy, and support social justice, community wealth building, independent media, sound health care and clean food and water are frequently missing from mainstream media. Pioneering efforts by activists such as Mario Tigueros, Pachamama Alliance program manager for the Game Changer Intensive; Joshua Gorman, founder of Generation Waking Up; and Cole Kleitsch, founder and director of Walking Civics, warrant widespread attention and support.
Hearts Afire
When hundreds of participants in Pachamama’s Awakening the Dreamer symposium, held in cities throughout the U.S., kept asking “What’s next?” Tigueros facilitated the creation of Game Changers, which explores present challenges and possibilities and ways to create a new future. He says, “We wanted to help them in awakening to their personal qualities and strengths before
natural awakenings
setting out to change the world. While engaging with others and creating a global society for all beings to flourish is a goal to strive for, we came to recognize that it takes a collective and collaborative approach within a community of practice to keep the message alive and implement what’s learned in the 12-week training.” A love for social justice prompted Tigueros to recognize the corporate capture of America’s democracy. “Suggesting that symposium participants work with Move to Amend and Citizens’ Climate Lobby made sense,” he explains. One is a nonpartisan coalition of organizations and individuals seeking to end corporate personhood and demand true democracy; the other empowers individuals to exercise their political power. It takes love to inspire the youth of GenY, Generation We and the Digital Generation, all names for the Millenials, to create a new story and transform their lives and communities. Gorman is counting on his peers to help make it happen. “We’re writing a different story than the worn-out one we’ve been led to believe is inevitable,” he says. Some of Generation Waking Up’s young leaders have formed local communities of practice that campaign to get big money out of politics, pressure universities to divest fossil fuel investments, build local and just food systems, end mass incarceration, enroll residents to go solar and inspire
People have the power, when we choose to use it, to act on it, to dedicate ourselves to change. ~Rebecca Solnit everyday citizens to live in more just, sustainable ways. “Young people have a leadership role in spearheading the change our world is calling for. Ultimately, it will only come about with every generation working together,” observes Gorman, who operates from Oakland, California. He’s encouraged when Generation Wak-
If we are brave enough, often enough, we will fall. When we own our stories of struggle, we can write our own new endings. ~Brené Brown, Rising Strong ing Up members say they want to learn from older adults that spent decades struggling for positive social change. A deep love for the potential of civic engagement prompted Gladstone, New Jersey, resident Kleitsch’s Walking Civics initiative. The intergenerational nonprofit, endorsed by the Campaign for the Civic Mission of Schools, trains military veterans and students as young as 16 as poll workers. “I want to inspire future voters by letting them learn how to do the job competently and with integrity, and lead them to participate in democracy’s most cherished act of voting,” advises Kleitsch. It’s currently active in several jurisdictions across the country and will scale up for 2016 and beyond.
Hearts Joining Hearts
At 15, Kelsey Juliana’s love of family, friends and future generations far outweighed any trepidation she felt in acting as one of two plaintiffs in a legal strategy to protect the atmosphere, guided by Mary Christina Wood, a law professor and author of Nature’s Trust. Wood created the Oregon nonprofit Our Children’s Trust, now operat-
ing in all 50 states and internationally, to enforce the duty of government to protect natural resources for present and future generations. It supports youth in bringing legal action in courts, administrative agencies and local legislative bodies. In local Sierra Club chapters, organizers work with facilitators to educate and empower youth to lead campaigns with town councils, legislative chambers and the courts. Mounting research is confirming what many have long suspected— extensive media coverage of negative news can trigger stress, fear and trauma. Images & Voices of Hope (ivoh) Executive Director Mallary Tenore cares deeply about how the media can benefit the world by catalyzing change and meaningful awareness of issues such as those raised by Our Children’s Trust. “At ivoh, we believe in focusing on the world we want to live in—not only problem-solving in the world we have. We are currently helping our global community of media practitioners tell ‘restorative narratives’, stories that show how people and communities are making a meaningful progression from despair to resilience.
Instead of focusing solely on tragedy and trauma, these narratives extend the storyline by showing signs of renewal, recovery and restoration,” explains Tenore.
On-Task Learning Curve
James Maskell wishes every media outlet would cover the doctors and health professionals that are applying the “functional/integrative/root cause” approaches to health care. Formerly a vendor of supplements to health professionals, Maskell has morphed his focus to found the Evolution of Medicine Functional Forum, a monthly educational Web show for health professionals and industry insiders. After becoming captivated by functional medicine at a trade show, he developed this fresh, high-tech concept that combines the latest health news, functional medicine research, practice developments and health technologies in a mixed-media format. Offered free on YouTube, it combines interviews, TED-style talks, videos and audience interaction. “With health politics raising more questions than answers and with technology changing the healthcare landscape, there’s never been a more ripe time for health innovation and accelerating a shift toward what works for most doctors,” remarks Maskell, who also recently collaborated with the Institute for Functional Medicine to live-stream Genomics and
transformative natural healing are you ready for a change? Naturopathic Family Medicine For over 25 years, Dr. Debra Gibson has provided caring, personal treatment in a friendly, comfortable environment to support healing transformation of body, mind and spirit. Her thorough, wellness-oriented approach investigates the root cause of chronic health concerns, and uses effective natural therapies to heal imbalances underlying conditions such as fatigue, overweight, allergy and autoimmunity, hormonal imbalance (thyroid, PMS, menopause), gastrointestinal disorders, and children’s health issues. (thy
100 Danbury Road, Suite 102, Ridgefield, CT Ph. 203.431.4443
Debra Gibson, ND
eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
33
The only ethical decision is to take responsibility for our own existence and that of our children. ~Bill Mollison, Permaculture: A Designer’s Manual Functional Medicine, the most cuttingedge clinical Functional Forum to date. Andrew Brandeis, a licensed naturopathic doctor in San Francisco, developed a challenging new skill set in creating the easy-to-use, mobile Share Practice app, launched 18 months ago and now also available on the Internet. It’s already used by 15,000 doctors nationwide to rate and review the effectiveness of drugs, herbs and supplements. They also ask questions and receive quick feedback about patient treatments. Brandeis sees an even bigger future opportunity. “As we spot trends and see what is working where and why, we can direct research dollars. There are all kinds of off-label uses for drugs, herbs and supplements that we’ll support when we see that 10,000 doctors are using them in the same way for the same thing,” says Brandeis, who enjoys the meaningfulness of this collective contribution. Gery Juleff, of Hopewell, New Jersey, reinvented himself and his career to serve a greater good. Seeking to inspire change through intelligent discussion on environmental issues he founded and hosts the Green Radio Hour broadcast on GreenHourRadio.com. He was formerly a member of the British Foreign Service, serving for 25 years as a diplomat, mostly in Africa and Brazil. In Juleff’s last London foreign office assignment, he dealt with policies on climate change, renewable energy
technology and energy security. “My love of Africa, the continent likely to be affected the most by climate change, quickened my sense of needing to do whatever I could to limit any negative effects,” he says. Even though he was innocent about the scope of such an undertaking, “When the station owner suggested I use my knowledge to host a radio show, I said yes.” In What Then Must We Do? Straight Talk About the Next American Revolution, economist and co-founder of the Democracy Collaborative Gar Alperovitz provides many examples of successful community wealth building. He’s been part of a team partnering with others in cities that include Cleveland, Ohio; Jackson, Mississippi; Rochester, New York; and Washington, D.C. As co-chair of The Next System Project, he’s dealing with the bigger picture of long-term systemic change. “The economics of sustainability focus on partnerships with local assets like universities, hospitals and cultural institutions to facilitate broad-based economic security for the entire community,” says Alperovitz. He’s deeply committed to the concept of an ecologically sustainable society, where problemsolving activities nurture democracy.
Waking Up
This small sampling of individuals whose actions are affirming their heart’s directives is not random and
Victoria F. Shaw, PhD, LPC
Intuitive & Consultant LPC Shaw, PhD, F.Psychotherapist Victoria
Intuitive Psychotherapist & Consultant
Combining the best of traditional psychotherapy with intuitive guidance in Combining the best of traditional psychotherapy with working with children, teens adults. intuitive guidance in working with children,and teens and adults. Offices in Wilton, Westport and Fairfield.
Offices in Wilton, Westport and Fairfield.
www.victoriashawpsychotherapy.com www.victoriashawintuitive.com VictoriaShawPsychotherapy.com • VictoriaShawIntuitive.com 203-254-3403 203-254-3403 •• vfshawphd@gmail.com vfshawphd@gmail.com
34
Fairfield County Edition
natural awakenings
signals a larger movement. It represents author Anodea Judith’s explanation for the evolution of our human journey, captured in the title and essence of her book Waking the Global Heart: Humanity’s Rite of Passage from the Love of Power to the Power of Love. James O’Dea, author of The Conscious Activist, says, “As we evolve, we recognize that it’s the heart which holds the great key to our collective healing, to real civility, the courage to face our own shadow and true progress.” Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Visit ItsAllAbout We.com for the recorded interviews.
Join the Heartbeat of Change Common Dreams CommonDreams.org Conscious Elders Network ConsciousElders.org Democracy Collaborative DemocracyCollaborative.org Democracy Now! DemocracyNow.org Functional Forum FunctionalForum.com Generation Waking Up GenerationWakingUp.org Green Hour Radio GreenHourRadio.com Images and Voices of Hope ivoh.org James O’Dea JamesODea.com Naomi Klein NaomiKlein.org Nature’s Trust/The Children’s Climate Crusade BillMoyers.com/episode/full-showclimate-crusade Pachamama Alliance Pachamama.org The Next System Project TheNextSystem.org Transition United States TransitionUS.org Walking Civics WalkingCivics.com
You Can Make A Difference
interludes juxtaposed against awful nights when a drunk and enraged person would turn on the light and scream in my face making ugly threats and accusations, barge out of the room then return to do the same thing (and seriously, what is UP with the whole not letting me sleep thing?) over and over all night long. So fast forward – here I am today, typing this article at two in the morning. My home is quiet, the children are sleeping and all is well. I’ll take a quick shower, check on them one last time and head to bed. I’ll sleep without interruption, until the alarm clock wakes me. Because finally … this is my safe place.
BECOME A MENTOR TODAY
Laura Lenhard was raised in Southern California and brought to Connecticut a lifelong fascination with the metaphysical world, along with a deep-rooted belief in the concept of Universal Spirituality. A deep respect for all spiritual paths and love for the natural world combined with a vision for a unique shop filled with all things mystical, magical and natural. This dream was realized when A basic law - the more you practice the art of Talisman, located in Monroe, opened in April of 2007. Laura now thankfulness, the more you have to be thankful for. works to educate and share information regarding the metaphysical For more information please contact This, of course, is a fact. Thankfulness does tend and spiritual realms through her day-to-day interactions with patrons at the shop, guest appearances on various radio shows, to reproduce in kind. The attitude of gratitude articles, Talisman’s monthly newsletter and Hearst Publications’ revitalizes the entire mental process by activating “Metaphysical Musings” blog as 203-366-3766 well as by leading classesinfo@bbbsswct.org and or email: lectures. Contact: Lenhard@comcast.net or www.talismanct.com. all other attitudes, thus stimulating creativity.
Big Brothers Big Sisters Of Southwestern Connecticut
~ Norman Vincent Peale
* 2 ROOMS OF DYNAMIC SPEAKERS AND GUIDED MEDITATIONS *
New Age & Crafts EXPO Come Experience a Day of Spiritual & Creative Enlightenment!
Sunday October 18, 2015 10 AM – 5 PM
Crowne Plaza Hotel
1284 Strongtown Road, Southbury, CT I-84, Exit 16, RT 188 $6 Admission $1.00 Off With This Ad * info: cryours87@yahoo.com or (203) 733-6560
* ANGEL CARD, TAROT AND INTUITIVE READINGS *
* CRYSTALS * AURA PHOTOS * HEALTH, WELLNESS, AND...
www.bbbsswct.org
* HANDCRAFTED JEWELRY, SOAPS, DOLLS, CANDLES, AND... eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
September – November 2015
35 5
Modern Chinese Medicine for the Whole Family by Kenneth Hoffman
A
ncient wisdoms evolve and remain over time due to their practicality and usefulness. As societies grow, the wisdoms are tested and evaluated. They may be kept in their entirety or modified to fit the times. Take, for example, the Taoist treatment for lice. The afflicted person was told to burn a lice comb, take the charred ashes and drink them in a glass of water. Obviously this did not work, so the treatment was dropped from practice. Using this practical, observational approach, Chinese medicine has continued to evolve over centuries; it is the oldest unbroken lineage of medicine in the world. It has evolved as a modern medical system and can become a path for you and your family to restore and maintain health.
History
Organized Chinese medicine dates back to the Zhou Dynasty from 1100221BC. During this time, the medical system developed into specialties such 36
Fairfield County Edition
as dieticians, orthopedics, gynecologists, disease-specific and surgical doctors, and even veterinarians. The textbooks described diagnosis, anatomy and physiology principles and many types of treatments, including surgery, acupuncture, herbal and dietary medicine. In contrast, the modern medical system has only evolved over the last 150 years. So, to some extent, Chinese medicine has had thousands of years to evolve while conventional medicine is still exploring. Chinese medicine was almost lost to antiquity in 1912 with the Kuomintang government, which wanted to abolish Chinese medicine as folklore in lieu of Western medicine as a substitute. Fortunately, this never happened due to the will of the people in 1914 who voted to retain their medical system.
Modern Medicine Bridges Ancient Wisdom
In 1950, the People’s Republic of China held a conference and determined that
natural awakenings
future medical policy would combine Chinese and Western medicine; thus started the transition to a modern medical system that has now treated over two billion people in one of the most powerful countries in the world. Unfortunately, as Chinese medicine transitioned to the U.S., there was a divide. Western or allopathic medicine became the dominant system while other forms became “alternative” or “complementary”. While allopathic medicine can certainly save lives, the medication and surgery-only attitude toward achieving optimal health has dominated much of U.S. society’s mindset. Yet today, many individuals, families and friends are suffering from correctible health issues that continue to affect their lives while standard treatments are unable to fix the problem and potentially cause others. There is a need for a modern medical system that addresses the true source of illness and brings about optimal health. An integrative natural medicine system that blends the best of functional/ naturopathic medicine and Chinese medicine is needed in the U.S – such as the combination system that is currently practiced in China.
Optimal Health
Optimal health is defined as the maximum function of mind and body that can be achieved by a being. Integrative natural medicine (INM) seeks to create optimal health based on the core principle of Chinese medicine: the body heals itself and seeks optimal function. This is described in the ancient texts as the free flow of qi and blood through all the vessels and to all tissues. Originally, in the West, it was believed that the word “qi” meant “life force” or “energy” but, upon proper transcription from Chinese medical texts to English, it was found that the word is the vital air carried by the blood (i.e., oxygen). Blood is the nutritive substance that carries the qi and brings life to all of your cells and, thus, optimal health. Simply put, if you suffer from symptoms, have a loss of functions, need to rely on medications, or do not feel as well as you should, you have a stagnation of the proper flow of qi and
blood in your body. This will eventually lead to degeneration and disease. If you want to restore and maintain optimal health, you will need to remove any stagnations to the flow of qi and blood. You also need to look at the physiology; it is defined as the organic processes or functions in an organism or in any of its parts. Your physiology is assessed through blood tests, adrenal testing, cardiovascular testing and any variety of functional tests that will help a professional discover where you have lost your health. This is very much in line with present-day, state-of-the-art Chinese medical hospitals; they have conducted more than 40,000 research studies related to Chinese medicine from functional MRI studies of specific acupuncture points to studies on herbal remedies for cancer patients.
Treatment Strategies
In INM, the principles of the five disciplines of Chinese medicine are practiced. • Right Thinking: This is the understanding that one should have a positive outlook toward health and life. The practice of meditation and proper relaxation techniques can help restore health. • Acupuncture: The effect of using fine filiform pins in precise peppercorn-size points has been well documented for conditions from chronic pain to hormone problems to digestion. When done precisely, it can remove stagnation and restore qi and blood as effectively as some medications. • Tui Na: This is a very specific form of massage and pressure therapy designed to dredge vessels and tissues and restore circulation. It can be performed in conjunction with acupuncture to magnify the results of treatments. • Dietary Therapy: Once a diagnosis has been determined, foods can be chosen that will enhance the treatment. A practitioner will look into specific nutrients in foods as well as the preparation energetics. For example, some patients do better with cooked foods, others with raw. • Herbal/Nutriceutical Therapy: Herbal medicine is much more than the use of single herbs; it is the precise use of combined formulas that have been preserved in medical texts. Some of these formulas for different diseases are still used in modern practice today. Nutriceutical therapy is the use of supplements and nutrients therapeutically to naturally repair and revitalize the body. No synthetic vitamins are used. Ultimately, the achievement of optimal health comes about by looking at someone as a whole being and not separate parts. In the traditions of Chinese medicine, the doctor chooses treatments that work in direct harmony with the body and remove any stagnation to function. Ken Hoffman, DAc(RI), LAc, is the medical director for Sophia Natural Health Center in Brookfield. He is the co-author of Essential Remedies for Women’s Health and host of The Natural Medicine Connection radio talk show on 800 WLAD. To connect, call 203-740-9300 or visit INM.center. See ad, page 3.
The Center for Natural Medicine
Are You Looking For A Doctor Who Will Address More Than Just Your Symptoms? • Women’s Health • Hormonal Imbalance • Abnormal Paps • Thyroid Disorders • Fertility • Insomnia
• Men’s Health • Erectile Dysfunction • Prostate Disorders • Anxiety and Depression • Autoimmune Disease • Weight Loss
• Pediatrics • ADD/ADHD • Eczema • Allergies • Asthma • Food Sensitivities
Dr. Kulveen Virdee
Naturopathic Physician
Dr. Andrew Cummins Naturopathic Physician
Beverly E. Lewis
Herbalist & Reiki Master
Tracy Pardo
Integrative Nutrition Health Coach
Shannon D. Reynolds
Dr. Ellen Lewis
Naturopathic Physician, Licensed Massage Therapist Medical Director 8 Lincoln Street, Westport, CT 06880 260 Riverside Avenue p 203.916.4600 www.ShalvaClinic.org Westport, CT 06880 f 203.916.4601 Info@ShalvaClinic.org Naturopathic Medicine • Massage Therapy C l a s s e s & Wo r k s h o p s
787 MAIN STREET SOUTH • WOODBURY 203.586.1172
®
Respiratory Conditions | Immune System Support Respiratory Conditions | Immune System Support | Central Nervous System | Stress & Fatigue Central Nervous System | Stress & Fatigue Cardiovascular Cardiovascular System | Skin Diseases | Sports/Muscle Recovery | Joint Inflammation
System | Skin Diseases | Sports/Muscle Recovery Joint Inflammation
www.NaturalSaltHealing.com www.NaturalSaltHealing.com eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
37
puncture. Licensed TCM practitioners are required to take continuing education to maintain their national license. TCM practitioners do receive different training and have a range of skills; thus their treatment of patients can vary widely. Typically, a TCM practitioner treats patients using a combination of acupuncture points, herbs, lifestyle suggestions and other techniques based on the individual’s specific presentation and needs.
TCM Diagnostic Approach
A BASIC PRIMER
Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine by Jody Eisemann, LAc
T
raditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), of which acupuncture is just one part, is a comprehensive and multi-pronged approach to health and well-being. Acupuncture is probably the best known component of TCM in the U.S., but TCM also encompasses many other modalities including herbs, moxa (heat therapy), cupping, massage, dietary therapy and others. In America, acupuncture has primarily been perceived and used as a successful way to treat pain. However, acupuncture and the other TCM modalities represent a philosophy and a complete medical system with few or no side effects. TCM has evolved over 3,500 years and is medicine based on observation, meaning it has been learned and improved by practice over time rather than based on theory. Over time, the medicinal value of herbs was learned and codified, acupuncture meridians or pathways were mapped out, and the numerous and complex protocols comprising TCM were developed. In comparison, Western medicine is just a few hundred years old and not tested by thousands of years of observation. It is true that in emergency situations, Western medicine excels and
38
Fairfield County Edition
saves lives. When it comes to chronic low-grade health conditions, acupuncture and other TCM modalities can treat both symptoms and the underlying cause of a condition, looking at the person as a physical, emotional and psychological whole. Unlike conventional, symptom-based Western medicine, TCM is not focused on structural or biochemical constraints. Instead, TCM is an energetic understanding of medicine that focuses on blockages in body’s energy flow known as qi, the vital force of the body. Acceptance of acupuncture and other TCM modalities continues to grow exponentially each year in this country, largely driven by patient demand. Every year more American hospitals embrace acupuncture to treat chemo side effects, help with infertility, assist turning breach births and expedite labor and delivery. Even major league sports teams like the New York Mets use cupping for pain. It can take three to four years to receive a master’s degree in the U.S. to learn TCM’s philosophy and systems. Licensed TCM practitioners must take a national exam and are the only professionals licensed by the state to use acu-
natural awakenings
Whereas current Western medicine relies heavily on technology and blood testing for diagnosis and focuses primarily on individual symptoms, TCM physicians (acupuncturists and herbalists) developed a complex and specific diagnostic system based on patterns and using a patient’s pulse and tongue. Each wrist has three pulses and three depths that correspond to different organ systems. The quality of the pulse indicates more information about the health of the organ system as well, such as forceful, tight, weak, hidden or ropey. In tongue diagnosis, the TCM practitioner observes the color, surface texture, degree of moisture, color and quality of tongue coating, and shape to further determine the patient’s overall health. Both pulse and tongue change over time based on the person’s health. Initial patient diagnosis is made using the Eight Parameters (patterns) that are dual in nature and are compared to one another in order to aid in restoring balance and health: • External/Internal: External (exterior) and internal (interior) indicate the location of the disease process in the body. Skin and muscles are considered the body’s exterior elements and interior imbalances of the body have more to do with organ-related symptoms. • Hot/Cold: Heat conditions – such as a fever or inflammation – can come from external invasions like a bacteria or virus. Another hot condition could be from too much internal yang energy like drinking too much alcohol, which can cause a red face and headache. Internal-generated heat can show up as an energetic deficiency, such as in menopause where there is not enough yin (yin lubricates and cools the body),
creating a “false heat.” In this situation, nourishing as well as act as mutual and ancient culture, Chinese people the condition should be nourished ver- restraints to keep overall balance. would never consider eating ice cream sus calmed in the case of an external Each of the five elements diagnos- in the dead of winter (it’s too cold and fever or inflammation. tically describes an organ system and milk makes phlegm) and believe strong • Excess/Deficiency: A disharmony (or its functions, how the organs interact emotions, especially anger, will damdisease) can be classified as either an with each other and the outside world, age the liver’s function. Many forms excess or a deficient condition. An exand illustrates different organ systems’ of meditation and martial arts were ample of an excess condition is when developed in that part of the world to patterns and imbalances. For example, a flu or virus attacks the body and the the spleen organ – considered expend- redirect such strong emotions to help body’s defenses go onto high alert and develop a peaceful, harmonious and able in Western medicine – is seen as protects with a high fever. Such excess integral in TCM. According to TCM, the balanced culture. can cause energy blockages (i.e., TCM core principles to treat illness spleen is an earth-element yin organ; clogged sinuses), giving rise to differand promote well-being differ greatly since its function is to transport and ent types of pain. Such acute condifrom Western medicine’s single symptom transform food and fluids, any spleen tions are considered excess in nature. focus; TCM has much to offer Western disharmony will affect the digestion. Deficient conditions tend to develop In TCM, the spleen controls the medicine that has yet to be tapped. As because of inherent chronic weakmuscles and sends food qi to the four more people continue to try and get ness in the person’s overall health or limbs; tiredness is a very common good results with acupuncture and TCM, the body’s qi. Symptoms of deficiency symptom of a spleen deficiency. There hopefully Western and Eastern medicine include weak movements, a pale face are at least 10 types of spleen organ will continue to integrate as they have and/or pale tongue, and a weak pulse. disharmonies: from cold damp invading most notably in China and Cuba. • Yin/Yang: Using yin and yang diagthe spleen, spleen qi deficient, to spleen nostically is the most general of all For more information, visit Connectiand liver blood deficiency. Cooked the TCM diagnostic categories and cut’s state acupuncture organization and warm foods like meat, ginger and considered a shorthand summary of all pepper benefit the spleen, whereas cold website CSAOM.org or the national the other categories. Heat, excess and acupuncture organization website raw foods like salad, most fruit and cold external invasions are yang conditions NCCAOM.org. drinks are damaging to people with while cold and internal organ imbalweak digestion. ances are defined as yin conditions; Five Element Theory can be used Jody Eisemann, L.Ac., NCCAOM, of most conditions are a mixture of yin in a more reaching manner to underAcupuncture Healing CT, has more than and yang that need to be balanced. 20 years experience treating all kinds stand how an individual functions in A good example of how to apply of conditions with acupuncture. She the larger world. Besides describing these TCM diagnostic principles can be sees patients in Norwalk, Southport and deeper organ dysfunctions, Five Eleseen in the case of two patients diagment Theory can also describe climate, Trumbull. Call 203-216-2548 or visit nosed with high blood pressure. One seasons, foods, tastes, smells, emotions AcupunctureHealingCT.com for more patient was a 42-year old that presented and speech. Having grown up with information. See Community Resource as an angry, red-faced, sweaty and over- these principles embedded in their vast Guide listing, page 80. weight man while the other was a thin, timid, pale, chilly 65-year-old woman. Western medicine would Lipo-Light generally preLose 3-9 Inches in 9 Sessions is the new nonsurgical state-of-the-art 20 Minute Sessions • Super Safe scribe both individuals thetechnology same blood alternative to Liposuction. It is Non-Invasive • No Pain pressure medication(s), irrespective of completely non-invasive, does not cause any No Downtime • No Side Effects discomfort, and no down time. such observational differences. TCM sees the two as virtual opposites; the is based on principle of man would be viewed as Ithaving antheexbiophotomodulation. Infrared light cess imbalance while the woman would at 635 nanometers is absorbed by be considered a deficient fat and cellsweak causing the cell’s pores imbalance. Their conditions would be the fatty acid to open and excrete treated with differing approaches. contents into the surrounding fluid. The fat is taken away by the
Five Element Theory lymphatic system and consumed by body metabolism. The result paradigm of is immediate loss of inches.
Another key diagnostic TCM is the Five Element Theory. This theory applies the relationships between the wood, fire, earth, metal and water elements to the human body. These elements are constantly moving and are both interdependent and
Only One Offer Per Person Restrictions May Apply New Patients Only INTRODUCTORY OFFER Offer Expires 8/31/15
SPECIAL 1 Treatment for $99 or 3 Treatments for $249 Only One Offer Per Person. Restrictions May Apply. New Patients Only. Offer Expires 11/30/15
www.westportlipolight.com eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
39
Stepping into Health with Reflexology by Ariana Rawls Fine
R
eflexology, according to the Reflexology Association of America (RAA), “is a non-invasive complementary practice involving the use of alternating pressure applied to reflexes within reflex maps of the body, located on the feet, hands and outer ears.” A trained reflexologist uses specific finger, thumb and hand techniques to
stimulate points and areas that correspond to the body’s organs and systems. Modern reflexology is actually based on ancient practices of working the feet that were found across four continents, including in countries such as China, Egypt and India. An American ear, nose and throat physician, William Fitzgerald, discovered
the power of zones on the foot in the early 20th century. His Zone Theory was developed further by Dr. Shelby Riley and then by Eunice D. Ingham, a physical therapist; Ingham is mainly credited with researching, developing and popularizing the modern modality through the 1970s. Reflexology can help with relaxation, stress relief, sleep, digestive problems, pain reduction and overall wellness – including “lending a helping hand” to mental health care management with depression, anxiety and post traumatic stress disorder. Reflexology has been used to support pregnant women with an easier birthing process and post-partum recovery as well. The modality has been used to complement medical care, especially in cases of cancer care to help with pain, nausea and anxiety. Patrick Lucas, a Bethel-based reflexologist, began studying after experiencing it himself as a client. “We live in a time-challenged society, especially in Fairfield County,” he states. “I could see the tangible benefits I received in my own body and the deep relaxation and stress reduction. That’s what drew me to study reflexology.” Although there may be sensitive areas due to stress or ailments, a reflexology treatment should not be painful. There are several areas that should be more tender, such as the adrenal reflex points. As your health improves through
Connecticut’s Largest Organic Mattress Gallery Every mattress in our Carpe Diem and Terra Bed Collections is made entirely by hand using only natural filling materials. Our mattresses are backed by a 25 year warranty and are designed to offer you a great value and return on your investment. Please stop in and try one for yourself. We think you will be very impressed. Norwalk 508 Main Avenue 203.846.2233
Starting at $1,099
Comfort, Not Chemicals 40
Fairfield County Edition
Stamford 55 High Ridge Road 203.323.1509
A Klein Family Tradition Since 1947 www.organicsleep.com
natural awakenings
continuous sessions, you can influence your blood pressure and cholesterol levels and potentially reduce your reliance on prescription or over-the-counter drugs. “I have been a type II diabetic for more than 26 years, somewhat controlled with pills and, over the past five years, replaced with dosages of insulin. During this period, my readings fluctuated between 165 dmo and 200 dmo daily. I started with reflexology…in November 2012 in order to rebuild my body and overall health and redevelop a sense of well being. Much to my amazement, I noticed my need for insulin was becoming less and less. I went from 54 units daily to 20 units,” explained Melvin Bye, a client of Irina Breslav, a Stamford-based reflexologist. Although there is no required national certification to become a reflexologist, it is highly recommended to seek an American Reflexology Certification Board-certified (ARCB) practitioner in good standing either with RAA (ReflexologyUSA.org/Practitioners), ARCB (ARCB.net/Find-an-ARCB-Reflexologist) and/or the Reflexology Association of Connecticut (ReflexologyCT.org/CurrentMembers.html). This insures your chosen reflexologist has the training and knowledge needed to understand your health issues and goals. ARCB is an independent reflexology testing agency that certifies the professional competency of and sets standards for reflexologists nationwide. Reflexology can help activate and balance the body’s healing powers by improving circulation, revitalizing energy, offering a relaxing place to release tensions, and reducing pain. “After suffering from a muscle injury in my back, I was in search of some type of healing. The pain I was experiencing was constant and nearly debilitating. I could not do my normal daily activities like driving, and going to the gym…I finally discovered the miraculous therapy of reflexology. Now I finally feel like myself again, and I’m able to do all of the activities I enjoyed prior to injuring my back…The effects are not instant but, by the day after therapy, you sure feel refreshed and find that your pain and stress will have dissipated,” said Josh B. of Stamford about his treatments in 2012 with Breslav. Ariana Rawls is the editor of Natural Awakenings Fairfield County. A former nationally certified reflexologist, she practiced in the Tri-State area and in Israel and is a co-founder of the Reflexology Association of Connecticut.
LOCAL RESOURCES Irina Breslav, MS, ARCB, NC 1441 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-968-6824 • Irina@IBHealing.com • IBHealing.com Patrick Lucas, ARCB 30 Grassy Plain St, Bethel 203-240-4039 Pal.Golf@yahoo.com • TheWellnessPathways.com Sharon Todd Ridgefield, CT • 203-512-4393
practitionerprofile IB Healing 1441 High Ridge Rd, Stamford and 46 Pemberwick Rd, Greenwich 203-968-6824 Irina@IBHealing.com IBHealing.com Facebook.com/IBHealing Practice summary; areas(s) of specialty: My specialty is FJM Reflexology based on TCM. Reiki and intuitive health reading are incorporated in each session along with aromatherapy, hot stones and sound healing. I am a certified EFT practitioner, as well as a nutritional consultant. My Stamford studio has a Far Infrared Light Bed, which can be used in conjunction with reflexology or by itself. Irena Breslav
How long in practice? I have been in a healing practice for over 16 years.
What drew you to Chinese Medicine as a specialty? All healing is energy healing, including reflexology. My main training in the Fr. Josef Method of Reflexology, which is based on TCM. It is a more than 2,000-year-old fascinating body of knowledge and experience that survived time due to its effectiveness. Do you have any special certifications/licensures? Where did you do your training/who were your teachers? I maintain my National Reflexology Certification through the American Reflexology Certification Board (ARCB). I have studied various styles of Reflexology from all over the world. My main apprenticeship was in Taiwan with Dr. Josef Eugster, a Catholic missionary from Switzerland who inspired the Fr. Josef’s Method of Reflexology. What should a patient expect from a session or series of sessions with you? Healing through relaxation and expanded awareness. What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about your work and approach to healing? Through years and diligent practice, I have learned to listen not only with my ears, but with my eyes and hands. I combine ancient art and modern science in my approach in helping people to heal, which is highly individualized and extremely attentive. I create a loving safe place for every person who comes through my doors.
eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
41
PINNING DOWN ACUPUNCTURE Getting to the Point of Acupuncture Practitioners by Sheri Hatfield
W
ith many different types of medical practitioners now offering acupuncture as a service, how is the layperson supposed to know which practitioner to choose? Are they all the same? Do chiropractors and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners offer the same thing? What is the difference?
To truly appreciate the differences, it is helpful to understand some history. The practice of acupuncture can be traced back at least 2,000 years to ancient China. In the 1950s, Chinese leader Chairman Mao saw there was a lack of Western-trained physicians to handle the massive health issues of the country; he saw
Meditation & Detox Courses Energy & Tarot Readings Energy Work Services Chakra Balancing Energy Renewal Aura Enlightenment
Kimberly Adams 203-702-3247
Grand Opening Special $10 off any service
415 Main Street, Unit F | Ridgefield, CT | www.ridgefieldctpsychic.com 42
Fairfield County Edition
natural awakenings
an opportunity to standardize the TCM being practiced throughout the country as a solution to the healthcare issue. He gathered practitioners of all different types of traditional Oriental medicines together and standardized the practices, creating the modality that is known as acupuncture today. Commonly called a healing art, TCM operates on the theory of aligning the energy along meridians in the body to balance qi or life force. These energy lines that run throughout the body can become imbalanced and cause pain, illness and disease. The patient may feel pain in one area which is actually related to another, deeper blockage or imbalance in a different spot. For instance, a patient might be feeling low back pain. A TCM-trained practitioner would check the tongue and pulse and could arrive at a diagnosis of a liver inflammation. They would then work along the liver meridian to remove blockages and may recommend an anti-inflammatory diet of foods that soothe the liver. Many years after Chairman Mao, acupuncture has become westernized and adopted by top hospitals such as the Mayo Clinic. According to the clinic’s website, “A key component of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture is most commonly used to treat pain.” It says that, “in contrast to traditional Chinese theory of balancing chi, many Western practitioners view acupuncture points as places to stimulate nerves, muscles and connective tissue to boost the body’s natural painkillers and increase blood flow.” While all include acupuncture as a method of pain relief, it is the basis of the practitioner’s study that separates them. Consider various approaches to addressing the same lower back pain complaint: a chiropractor may take an X-ray to find the cause of the pain in spinal compression, recommend acupuncture, physical therapy, manipulation and muscle stimulation to relieve the pain and strengthen the muscles surrounding the spinal issue. A Western-trained medical doctor may treat that back pain with X-ray, acupuncture, cortisone, chemical pain relievers, muscle relaxers and, even-
tually, surgery. On the other hand, a Western-trained naturopath may treat the lower back pain with acupuncture in key areas along the liver meridian and recommend herbal supplements to reduce inflammation. In the state of Connecticut, medical doctors, chiropractors, dentists, physical therapists, podiatrists, homeopaths, naturopaths, optometrists and veterinarians may practice acupuncture without any specific training. Additionally, acupuncture may be practiced by a physician’s assistant or nurse under the supervision of a licensed medical doctor; however, that physician’s assistant must have graduated from an accredited physician’s assistant program and passed the national physician’s assistant examination. A physical therapist may practice acupuncture provided he or she is licensed as a physical therapist. These are not licensed or certified acupuncturists. To become a certified acupuncturist, the same group of professionals can take a 300-hour certification course that teaches the basic principles of
“It’s a modality, but it’s what you do with the modality that’s the difference between a technician and a healer.” ~Patricia Singer acupuncture. This teaches the history and theory of acupuncture, along with common symptoms and their corresponding meridian points for needling. In contract, to become a licensed acupuncturist in Connecticut, you must complete 60 semester hours of postsecondary education in an institution that is a recognized regional accrediting body or, if outside the United States or its territories, was legally chartered to grant postsecondary degrees in the country in which it is located. The candidate then must complete a course of study in an acupuncture program that was accredited by The Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM) that
includes a minimum of 1,350 hours of classroom and clinical training, 500 hours of which are clinical. After 2012, the requirements changed to 1,950 hours of classroom and clinical training, 660 of which must be clinical. Then they must pass all portions of the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine’s (NCCAOM) acupuncture examination, which includes comprehensive written exams in The Acupuncture, the Clean Needle Technique, and in the Practical Examination of the Point of Location Skills. Upon successful completion of these written exams, the candidate can then submit his or her records and a fee to the Connecticut Department of Public Health for Acupuncturist Licensure, according to the Connecticut Department of Health Acupuncture Licensing Requirements. “It’s like the difference between taking your car to the car wash versus getting a tune up,” remarked Patricia Singer, a licensed acupuncturist. “One is very surface and makes the car look good; the other actually fixes what is wrong with the car. It is the same with
DID YOU REALIZE THAT
TOXINS Toxins drive neurological, metabolic (including weight gain), immune and cardiovascular illnesses – and any disease ending in “itis”. We have the knowledge and technology to help your body heal itself. For 25+ years, our patients have enjoyed remarkable success with naturopathic treatments which cleanse, detox, nourish, repair and balance. Call us to schedule an appointment:
ARE OFTEN THE ROOT CAUSE OF
INFLAMMATION?
D r M a r v i n S c h w e i t z e r. c o m 2 0 3 . 8 4 7. 2 7 8 8
1 We s t p o r t A v e n u e Norwalk, CT 06851 eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
43
acupuncturists. It’s a modality, but it’s what you do with the modality that’s the difference between a technician and a healer.” NCCAOM has four certifications, or diplomate, pro grams: Acupuncture, Chinese Herbology, Oriental Medicine and Asian Bodywork Therapy. The organization lists the thousands of diplomates who have received national certification. It also provides the professional development program for continuing education for diplomates. The ACAOM lists 85 accredited programs for acupuncture on its website, one of which is at the University of Bridgeport (UB). The Masters of Science in Acupuncture (MS Ac) at UB is a three-year program consisting of seven areas: acupuncture practice and techniques; Asian medicine theory; diagnosis and application; Western biomedicine; herbal medicine survey; movement and respiration studies; counseling, communications and practice management; and clinical services. The clinical portion includes 150 hours of clinical preceptorship, or training under supervision, and 680 hours of clinical education. Kristine DeMarco, a Fairfield-based chiropractic physician who has been practicing acupuncture for 15 years in her chiropractic practice, received her 300-hour certification for acupuncture and is currently enrolled in UB’s MS Ac program to further her knowledge of the modality. As both a recipient and practitioner of acupuncture, she states that acupuncture is “very powerful” and uses a lot of it in her practice. For those interested in acupuncture but concerned about needles, another related option for chemical-free pain relief is acupressure with a licensed acupressure practitioner. Injae Choe, Ph.D., LMT, a third-generation practitioner who owns Sugi Acupressure in New York City and Westport, has been practicing for more than 20 years and has advanced degrees in natural sciences from UC Berkeley, Columbia and the New School for Social Research. “Things have come full circle,” Choe reflects. “People who come from a Western background are looking for holistic answers and vice versa. The great thing is that we are now putting the ‘mystical and traditional’ to scientific tests and learning that there is validity to certain aspects of Eastern medicine.” Acupuncture provided by a medical doctor, chiropractor or naturopath is usually covered under most insurance plans; licensed acupuncturists and acupressurists typically have more difficulty getting their costs covered by insurance companies. However, one thing every practitioner can agree on is that acupuncture is an effective chemical-free pain relief solution. Those wishing to go beyond pain relief and benefit from the energetic healing aspect of acupuncture should seek a licensed acupuncturist who they may connect with on a deeper, more spiritual level. Sheri Hatfield is a freelance writer and co-founder of an emerging children’s museum in Shelton. Contact her at Sheri@DayDreamerConsulting.com. 44
Fairfield County Edition
natural awakenings
practitionerprofiles Acupuncture By Jim Fitzpatrick 3 Hollyhock Ln, Wilton Community Health Associates of Newtown, 153 South Main St, Newtown 203-257-4377 JimFitz@AcuJimFitz.com AcuJimFitz.com Practice summary; areas(s) of specialty: Chronic disease, health enhancement, pain management, gynecology How long in practice? What drew you to Chinese Medicine as a specialty? For the past 10 years, I have been the Clinic Director at the University of Bridgeport and an Adjunct Professor. I was also their Chinese Herb Program Director this past Jim Fitzpatrick year. The beauty and sensibility of Chinese intellectual thought and Chinese medical philosophy has drawn me deeper into Chinese Medicine. As well, there is no better feeling than the satisfaction of successfully helping a patient. Do you have any special certifications/licensures? Where did you do your training/who were your teachers? Masters of Traditional Chinese Medicine from Mercy College in 2002. Post-graduate work at Sound Shore Medical Center in 2003. What should a patient expect from a session or series of sessions with you? A relationship that emphasizes clear communication, responsiveness to a patient’s needs and expectations, and effective care with the totality that TCM has to offer: acupuncture, herbs, adjunctive therapies. What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about your work and approach to healing? Hopefully, the principles of Chinese Medicine become a part of you instead of something done to you. The opportunity to help people heal is a great gift and responsibility to me; it is something that makes me more whole.
The Healing Point, LLC
CT Acupuncture Center
Cindy J Lawrence, MAOM, Lac 61 Sherman St, 1st fl, Fairfield 203-887-6789 THPAcupuncture@gmail.com THPAcupuncture.com Facebook.com/TheHealingPointLLC
400 Post Rd, Fairfield, 203-259-1660 1 Danbury Rd, Wilton, 203-762-3646 236 Greenwood Ave, Bethel, 203-778-6551 Ingri9@gmail.com CTAcupuncture.com Facebook.com/CT-Acupuncture-Center-110078025713123 Twitter.com/AcupunctureCT
Practice summary; areas(s) of specialty: The Healing Point is an acupuncture and traditional Chinese medical clinic. Although we see patients for many different reasons, we specialize in fertility and women’s health. How long in practice? What drew you to Chinese Medicine as a specialty? The owner, Cindy J. Lawrence, has been in practice since 2002.
Practice summary; areas(s) of specialty: All areas, including pain management. How long in practice? What drew you to Chinese Medicine as a specialty? I have practiced full time for 30+ years. I studied naturopathy prior to acupuncture. Ingri Boe-Wiegaard
Do you have any special certifications/licensures? Where did you do your training/who were your teachers? Cindy holds a Masters degree in acupuncture and Oriental medicine from the New England School of Acupuncture. She is fully licensed and is certified by the National Commission for Certification of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. What should a patient expect from a session or series of sessions with you? We work closely with every patient to help them achieve a healthy, well-balanced life. Treatments are unique and tailored to each individual. All aspects of health are considered including diet and lifestyle.
Do you have any special certifications/licensures? Where did you do your training/who were your teachers? Connecticut license and trained in England. What should a patient expect from a session or series of sessions with you? Gentle relief and a painless treatment! What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about your work and approach to healing? Natural methods are the best way to enhance healing. Treating causes to symptoms is better than just chasing symptoms.
What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about your work and approach to healing? Our personalized, simple and empathetic approach has earned The Healing Point a reputation as one of Fairfield County’s most respected acupuncture clinics.
The Cleanest Touch LLC Bringing nature to your home
Your home is an extension of your body and spirit. Shouldn’t it be a healthy, stress-free environment? We are proud to introduce our new HOUSE GREEN CLEANING SERVICES in Fairfield County, CT. We use only “clean” products, including our signature products made with essential oils. For a free estimate, call us at 203-260-3087 www.thecleanesttouch.com Now serving these areas of Fairfield County: Fairfield, Norwalk, Trumbull, Westport, Wilton, Weston, and Darien.
eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
45
practitionerprofiles Sophia Natural Health Center 31 Old Rte 7, Brookfield 203-740-9300 Info@SophiaNaturalHealth.com INM.Center Facebook.com/SophiaNaturalHealthCenter
Ken Hoffman
Practice summary; areas(s) of specialty: Our center specializes in an integrative and modern approach to Chinese medicine. We are the largest practice of its kind in Connecticut and offer functional testing, along with natural comprehensive treatment strategies that include acupuncture, tui na massage, diet and herbal therapy and lifestyle counseling. Many of our patients come to see us when nothing else has worked. Most insurance is accepted.
How long in practice? What drew you to Chinese Medicine as a specialty? The medical director, Ken Hoffman, DAc (RI), LAc, started the practice in 2004. He found that Chinese medicine could get to the root of health problems and restore people’s quality of life. Do you have any special certifications/licensures? Where did you do your training/who were your teachers? Our director, Ken Hoffman, trained not only in the U.S., but also in Taiwan. We have three full-time acupuncturists and a Naturopathic Physician, all of whom are highly trained in 4-year specialty programs in their field. Certifications include all varieties of functional medicine, integrative oncology, biotherapeutic drainage techniques, functional hormone evaluations and more. What should a patient expect from a session or series of sessions with you? We will get to the source of any health problem and prepare a customized program to help restore your health. What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about your work and approach to healing? It is a unique and precise blend of ancient wisdom and modern medicine that gets results.
46
Fairfield County Edition
natural awakenings
Patricia Singer, MS, Lac 544 Riverside Ave, Westport 203-226-8897 Patricia@PatSinger.com PatSinger.com Facebook.com/PatSingerIlluminations Linkedin.com/Pub/Patricia-Singer/12/497/2b1 @RootedInSpirit Practice summary; areas(s) of specialty: Classical Acupuncture, Zen Shiatsu, Chinese Medical Aromatherapy, Spiritual Counseling/ Ceremonies, Sound and Energy Healing, Stone Medicine How long in practice? In practice since 1981. What drew you to Chinese Medicine as a specialty? I’d practiced Zen Shiatsu since 1981. I was so inspired after Patricia Singer taking a year-long course in Chinese Medical Aromatherapy with Jeffery Yuen, I decided that Classical Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture was my next step. Do you have any special certifications/licensures? Masters of Science Degree, CT. Licensed Acupuncturist, Diplomat in Acupuncture (NCCAOM), Ordained Interfaith Minister, 2-year course in Advanced Acupuncture, 1-year courses in Chinese Medical Aromatherapy, Stone Medicine, and Chinese Dietary Therapy. Where did you do your training/who were your teachers? Acupuncture: Swedish Institute College of Health Sciences with Dr Jeffery Yuen - studied advanced acupuncture, dietary therapy, Classical Chinese Medicine, Chinese Medical Aromatherapy, stone medicine. Interfaith Minister: All Faiths Seminary International with Rabbi Joseph Gelberman. What should a patient expect from a session or series of sessions with you? Healing is an unraveling process with many layers. I use a customized one-on-one approach using various healing modalities: acupuncture, shiatsu, aromatherapy, dietary therapy, sound therapy, ceremony and spiritual counseling. What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about your work and approach to healing? I consider myself a Spiritual Alchemist and am a mixture of all the modalities I’ve studied, which gives me the ability to connect with my patients on many levels with the skill and tools to assist in their healing journey.
Kara Acupuncture & Wellness 268 Greenwood Ave, Ste 200, Bethel 203-470-7072 LauraKara@AcuLaura.com AcuLaura.com Facebook.com/KaraAcupunctureWellness @KaraAcupuncture
Laura Kara
Practice summary; areas(s) of specialty: Laura Shahinian Kara, MS, LAc, specializes in Japanese Acupuncture, Sports Medicine Acupuncture and Acupuncture Physical Medicine – acupuncture that combines elements from both classical acupuncture and Western physical medicine.
How long in practice? What drew you to Chinese Medicine as a specialty? I’ve been in acupuncture practice for 13 years with a background of shiatsu therapy for 25 years. I became interested as a teenager; my father was diagnosed with terminal cancer and was tremendously helped by this great healing modality. Do you have any special certifications/licensures? Where did you do your training/who were your teachers? I’m a licensed acupuncturist specializing in Japanese Acupuncture, Acupuncture Physical Medicine (Tri-State College of Acupuncture 2003) and Sports Medicine Acupuncture (New England School of Acupuncture 2014). My teachers were Kiiko Matsumoto, Mark Seem and Matt Callison, among others. I also have certifications in shiatsu from the Ohashi Institute (1990) and the British School of Shiatsu (1989). What should a patient expect from a session or series of sessions with you? With my particular type of training, all my methods are hands-on. I do a full intake, postural assessment, abdominal palpation diagnosis and full treatment. Follow-ups are anywhere from 4-12 treatments, or longer for chronic issues.
Acupuncture Healing Connecticut Main Office: 166 East Ave, Ste 201, Norwalk Additional offices in Trumbull and Southport 203-216-2548 JEisemann2@gmail.com AcupunctureHealingCT.com Practice summary; areas(s) of specialty: I offer general healthcare using the powerful tools available in acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine. I also offer private and community-style acupuncture and specialize in treating all kinds of pain. How long in practice? What drew you to Chinese Medicine as a specialty? Jody Eisemann I have been in practice for over 23 years and I love and respect that acupuncture is ancient, artistic and effective. Do you have any special certifications/licensures? Where did you do your training/who were your teachers? I attended the New England School of Acupuncture in Massachusetts. Following school, I was also lucky enough to study with renowned California acupuncturists Miriam Lee and Richard Tan. What should a patient expect from a session or series of sessions with you? Patients should come first for three sessions in a short timeframe and expect some sort of improvement or change. Acupuncture is often very relaxing and post treatment there should be a feeling of well-being. What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about your work and approach to healing? Acupuncture can often help those people who had lost hope of ever finding some relief for their condition and can be a possible alternative to surgery or pharmaceuticals.
What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about your work and approach to healing? At Kara Acupuncture & Wellness, we focus not only on your symptoms, but get to the root of the problem. We take the time to carefully listen to our patients. My approach to healing is multi-dimensional addressing the body, mind and spirit.
eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
47
the bagua to determine the most auspicious location for building their homes or businesses but today that’s not practical as most neighborhoods are already built. How can you use feng shui practically without tearing down your home and costing a lot of money? Let’s look at two of the areas on the bagua – ‘Love and Marriage’ and ‘Fame and Reputation’ – as examples.
LOVE AND MARRIAGE
Get Unstuck to Live a Happier Life Apply Feng Shui Principles to Your Home and Life by Catherine Avery
D
id you know that every room in your home is a reflection of your life? Feng shui is about designing your environment – home or office – to help facilitate bringing in more of what you want in life, whether it is to be happier, healthier or more prosperous. Feng means wind and shui means water in Chinese. Wind and water are about movement or energy. When energy (qi in Chinese) is blocked, the energy can’t move and you remain stuck. This can be evidenced with clutter, such as a cluttered desk or mounds of paperwork. Clear those piles and you will help clear your mind. Are there places in your life where you feel stuck? For example, do you ever feel that your money is going down the drain as quickly you make it? You
48
Fairfield County Edition
may have a leak in your plumbing or maybe one of your toilets is leaking. Check your toilets, faucets and showerheads and even your water bill. Then call the plumber. There are two major schools of feng shui: the Form School and the Compass School. The former uses the bagua, which consists of eight trigrams that represent the different areas of meaning in your life. If you overlay the bagua on your floor plan, you can see the meaning of each area of your home. You align the side that has Wisdom, Career and Helpful People along your main entrance. The Compass School uses the luo pang (pronounced “low pan”), which is a geomancer’s compass and involves elements of astrology. Typically, the Chinese nobles used
natural awakenings
Do you want to reignite the spark in your relationship? As an example, a woman reported that her and her husband had lost the intimacy in their relationship. One glance at their bedroom, which is located in the Love and Marriage area of the home, told the story. The walls were covered in artwork by their children. The fireplace mantel had photos of their children and there were two chairs on opposite sides of the room. The curio cabinet – housed in the love and marriage corner of the room – was filled with feminine mementos, a stuffed animal and photos of their children. The first step was to remove the children’s artwork and photos from the mantel and replace them with a small landscape painting from another room, a silver box that her husband had given her as a gift, and photos of the two of them as a couple. The kid-focused memorabilia from the curio cabinet was cleared out and like items were paired together. In feng shui, pairing like or similar items is symbolic of being a couple. Finally, the two facing chairs were moved side by side to create another pairing. Now the room was about the two of them as a couple, not just about her and their children.
FAME AND REPUTATION How do you manage a job shift when you are in the midst of moving? According to the Holmes-Rahe Stress Inventory, changing jobs and moving are two of life’s major stressors. As an example, a woman wanted to change jobs and move in the same year that she was becoming an empty nester. Her goals for changing her son’s study room into a home office included the desire for a quiet retreat. Completely paneled in
wood, her son’s dark and masculine study room was located in the Fame and Reputation area of her home. Because of the pending sale, it was decide to skip the expense of painting the paneling. Fame is represented by red in feng shui and is the color of fire, which was lacking in this “wooded” room. She didn’t like red so a cream and hot pink-colored rug was chosen for the floor to lighten the heaviness of the space and to bring in the fire element. A comfortable feminine thinking chair was purchased to soften the space, and mementos of her career were placed on her bookshelf, candles on an end table and inspirational sayings on the walls. Finally, several lamps were added for the dark corners. Just a few months later she made a thrilling job shift and, not long after that, she sold her home. Catherine Avery delivers peace, comfort and productivity through interior design of home and office environments with a focus on feng shui, space clearing and personal branding. Learn more and connect at Resovate.com.
Simple Feng Shui Strategies You Can Implement Now
G
o outside and come in the front door as though it’s not your home. What do you notice first? Walk through your entire home taking notes on what you love and the areas for improvement. This is an old real estate trick, so if you are getting ready to sell your home do this now.
Join the Ridgefield Chamber of Commerce Health & Wellness Council for
Destination Wellness Expo Your Passport to Health
Saturday, November 7, 2015 10:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M. Ridgefield Recreation Center 195 Danbury Road, Ridgefield CT
vendors food prizes demos Special Key Note Speaker:
Comedian Christine O’Leary 'The #LOL of Stand(ing) Up in a Sit Down Life' For more information, visit RidgefieldChamber.org
n Declutter, declutter. Think how great you feel when your home has just been cleaned – lighter, fresher, more clear. Decluttering is overwhelming for most people; it’s best to take one corner at a time and set a timer for 10 minutes. n Want to attract a partner into your life? Make space in your closet and empty at least one drawer in your dresser to symbolically hold space for that person. The bedroom should be cozy and romantic, not too frilly or childoriented. Place similar items in pairs to help bring in the partner energy. n Ideally, you will have a view of the door from your bed or desk. For the bedroom, you want to feel safe, protected and aware of your surroundings. For the desk, this is the power position. n When designing your living room, choose your furniture more for comfort and safety than for aesthetics. There is no point in having a gorgeous uncomfortable chair that your guests are afraid to sit in. Make sure that you and your significant other try sitting in the chair you plan to buy. n Add plants to your bathroom. The wood element helps to offset the water element. If you don’t have a green thumb, a piece of driftwood will work.
~ equestrian gifts ~ pottery ~ buddas ~ crystals of all sizes ~ books ~ angels
Touch of Sedona A unique boutique with a heartfelt purpose
203-438-7146
452 Main Street, Ridgefield
touchofsedonaridgefield.com eNaturalAwakenings.com
Open Every Day Until 5:30
October 2015
49
2 tsp vinegar per quart of water or per about 2 lbs of bones 2-3 onions, coarsely chopped 3-4 cloves of garlic 3 carrots, coarsely chopped 3 or more celery stalks, coarsely chopped 1-in slice of ginger, several sprigs of fresh thyme, parsley and other favorite herbs and spices 2 bay leaves
Bone Broth The Elixir of Life by Patricia Singer
B
one broth boutiques, an increasing store trend in locations such as New York City, are riding on an ancient tradition traced back to early China where the original alchemists were seeking the “elixir of life” – a blend of medicine and longevity – during a search for immortality. Bone broth is an example of an alchemical process, of refining the “lead” or raw materials – bone, vegetables, herbs and spices – through the heating process. It’s a reflection of the evolution of matter from one form to another, of taking something that is “heavy” and from the earth, adding materials together and transforming those substances. In many ancient traditions, the alchemical brew was buried, heated and brought through a ritual of timing – dependent on the stars and the cycle of the moon – and cooked for a long period of time. When the transformation was complete, it was then exhumed and consumed. Bone in traditional Chinese medicine symbolizes your essence, ancestry, and the building blocks of your DNA. Bone broth refers to an understanding that the essence of a long-cooked stock nourishes at the deepest of levels, the bones, joints, blood, building marrow, the kidneys, reproductive system and the brain. These long-cooked stocks are beneficial for those who feel depleted, run down, stressed or over-exerted. This elixir is stimulating, grounding,
50
Fairfield County Edition
fortifying and nourishing and an easily digested medicinal food. You begin with a recipe and the ingredients required for a specific dish. You put the components through a process of firing or heating via roasting, bubbling or brewing; over time the bone broth is formed. The broth is easy to make and can be consumed plain or used as the base for a more complex soup by adding vegetables, meats and beans. It may also be used as a base in place of water in cooking rice or other grains. Adding vinegar – an important key ingredient – extracts minerals like calcium and magnesium, collagen and marrow from the bones into the soup, making it easier for the body to digest.
Elixir of Life – Bone Broth Soup INGREDIENTS: 3-6 lb of bones – such as beef marrow bones, joints with the cartilage included, chicken, veal, fish skeletons (need less cooking time) – cut into 2- to 4-in sections. Use organic or grass-fed meat products whenever possible. [To make a vegetarian stock, which can be ready in 20-60 minutes, use seaweed (usually kombu/kelp) and dried mushrooms.] 4-6 qt of water, enough to cover bones and vegetables. Add more to keep covered.
natural awakenings
DIRECTIONS: • Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake brown bones in a roasting pan for 45-60 minutes (the roasting consolidates the bones). If there is meat on the bones, remove it and refrigerate or, with the long cooking time, it can get stringy and lose taste. Add it back once the soup is complete or use it in other ways if you only want to drink the clear broth. • In a stockpot, put in the roasted bones, cover with cold water, add the vinegar and bring to a low boil. Skim off the foam-like layer. Add vegetables, spices and herbs and reduce heat to a low simmer. You can also add the browned bones and vegetables to a slow cooker. • Allow the soup to cook anywhere from eight hours to one to two days; the longer cooking time yields a richer broth. You can add more water as it cooks down. • Strain the liquid into a large bowl and allow cooling. A layer of fat will settle on top of the stock, remove the fat so as to keep the stock clear. Divide the stock into containers. It will keep in the fridge for four days or freeze until needed. The cooled broth will have a jelly-like consistency due to the high gelatin content of the collagen. Patricia Singer, MS, LAc, is a spiritual alchemist who uses a customized approach to assist in each client’s healing process. She uses acupuncture, shiatsu, aromatherapy, dietary therapy, sound and energy healing, ceremony, and spiritual counseling. Connect with her at PatSinger.com or 203-226-8897. She practices in Westport. See ad, page 17.
ADV ERTORIAL
StickNotwith Natural Iodine All Supplements are the Same The Hidden Deficiency Having the proper amount of iodine in our system at all times is critical to overall health, yet the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition finds that iodine deficiency is increasing drastically in light of an increasingly anemic national diet of unpronounceable additives and secret, unlabeled ingredients. This deficit now affects nearly three-quarters of the population.
Causes of Iodine Deficiency
Radiation
Almost everyone is routinely exposed to iodine-depleting radiation
Low-Sodium Diets
Overuse of zero-nutrient salt substitutes in foods leads to iodine depletion
Iodized Table Salt
Iodized salt may slowly lose its iodine content by exposure to air
Bromine
A toxic chemical found in baked goods overrides iodine's ability to aid thyroid
Iodine-Depleted Soil Poor farming techniques have led to declined levels of iodine in soil
A Growing Epidemic Symptoms range from extreme fatigue and weight gain to depression, carpal tunnel syndrome, high blood pressure, fibrocystic breasts and skin and hair problems. This lack of essential iodine can also cause infertility, joint pain, heart disease and stroke. Low iodine levels also have been associated with breast and thyroid cancers; and in children, intellectual disability, deafness, attention deficient hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and impaired growth, according to studies by Boston University and the French National Academy of Medicine.
What to Do The easy solution is taking the right kind of iodine in the right dosage to rebalance thyroid function and restore health to the whole body.
{
Satisfied Customers
}
I feel much more energetic, my thoughts are extremely clear, and my entire body feels more in balance. Natural Awakenings Detoxified Iodine is the only change in my daily routine over the last 45 days. The way I feel today is better than at any point in my life that I can remember. ~ James
I’ve been taking this product for over a year and no single supplement, diet or approach (I have tried lots) has had as great an impact as this. I have my energy back, my metabolism is back on track and my mind is clear and the depression has lifted. I love this product and wish more people knew about it. I think many of us are deficient in iodine and it can bring balance to the body. Thank you, thank you Natural Awakenings for offering it! ~ Pamela
Proper iodine supplementation with a high-quality product like Natural Awakenings Detoxified Iodine can prevent harm by protecting the thyroid and other endocrine glands and restoring proper hormone production.
A Few Drops Can Change Your Life! You could feel better, lose weight or increase energy and mental clarity with a few drops of Natural Awakenings DETOXIFIED IODINE daily in water or topically on the skin. The supplementation of iodine, an essential component of the thyroid, has been reported to give relief from: • Depression • Weight Gain • Fibromyalgia • Low Energy • Hypothyroidism • Hyperthyroidism • Radiation • Bacteria • Viruses
$19.99 plus $5 shipping • 1 btl. = 6-8 week supply Order today, available only at
ShopNaturalAwakenings.com or call: 888-822-0246
Like us on Facebook at Natural Awakenings Webstore
eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
51
natural awakenings
Product
Marketplace Experience Healing From the Inside Out Pain Relief • Weight Loss Emotional Stress • Headaches Digestion • Insomnia
doTERRA
Call today for a free Wellness Consultation
Lori Haggerty
Wellness Advocate / Product Consultant
203-994-8978 www.mydoterra.com/lorihaggerty
YOUR AD CAN BE HERE
Gifts
For more information about advertising your product here contact:
Something for 203-885-4674 Every Occasion
Shop FFCAdvertising@ by product categories: • Beauty & Skin Care NaturalAwakeningsmag.com • Spas & Facial Treatments • Yoga & Fitness Classes • Organic Holiday Foods
Support Our Advertisers 52
Fairfield County Edition
FROM CLOWNS TO HEIGHTS How to Effectively Overcome Your Fears by Kristine Centnere
W
ith Halloween quickly approaching, a percentage of Americans are likely formulating a plan of how to avoid their worst fear – clowns. However, not every fear is easily avoidable, especially lunaedisophobia (fear of Mondays). It’s a fact, we’re all afraid of something. The question is, how can you stop the exhausting feeling of fear from taking over your life? First, it is important to understand from where fears come. Fear is not an outside force which you cannot control. On the contrary, the culprit is right inside your head; it can be quite manageable. We’ve all heard the inner voice that says things like, “That client is too big for you. You will fail and everyone will laugh at you. It’s better to stick with what you know. Don’t go outside of your comfort zone – there are snakes and spiders and everything you fear out there.” That voice comes from a part of the brain called the amygdala. The amygdala is an almond-
natural awakenings
shaped mass of nuclei, located in the temporal lobes of the brain. Also known as the “lizard brain” for its primal function, the amygdala is responsible for your most basic instincts: hunger, arousal and fear. The amygdala receives sensory input first and gives it the initial judgment of fear or pleasure before the situation is then judged by the more “reasonable’ frontal lobe part of the brain. It is easy to get frustrated with this little part of you that seems to rule your life. But the culprit that keeps you from speaking in front of a large crowd comfortably is the same one that keeps you from repeatedly burning yourself on a hot stove. Now that you understand why you fear, you can overcome your “lizard brain” using the methods below.
Leave your comfort zone When you are in your comfort zone, your lizard brain is happy because it is not challenged. In order to beat fear, you must leave comfort zone. Typical-
ly, you use that feeling of comfort as an indication that this is where you should remain. To move ahead, you must manually override this indicator. The feeling of discomfort must now be the compass of what you should continue doing until your comfort zone expands over it. For instance, if you fear public speaking – as 25.3 percent of Americans do – join a public speaking group and continue to face your fear until it becomes more comfortable.
Make a plan for what you can’t control You may be fearful of things you can control, such as public speaking, as well as things you cannot, such as an economic downturn. Both can be great sources of anxiety; dealing with them is important. Facing fears you can control is a conscious decision which you are able to do on your own time. However, what do you do if the economy takes a nose dive? Rather than relying on your amygdala’s initial panic response, engage your frontal lobe by thinking more reasonably about a certain situation which may or may not happen. Writing out a plan for a possible circumstance will allow you to feel more comfortable with it; you may even realize that your worst fears are highly unlikely to happen.
Discover Westbrook Let your child experience the joy and wonder of nature in a safe and loving environment Set on six beautiful acres in West Redding, CT, Westbrook offers Parent-Child and Mixed-Age Kindergarten Programs, Adult Workshops, Playdays and Seasonal Events
203-664-1554 www.westbrooknatureschool.org
Be kind to yourself Above all else, it is crucial that you are kind to yourself throughout the process. Keep in mind that you are taking on the heroic task of rewiring the most primal of instincts in your brain; it takes work and time. As ironic as it may read, fear is not something you should fear. By taking a proactive, patient approach to overcoming your fears – and asking for help when you need it – you are capable of reducing anxiety and enjoying things you may have not been able to before. Fear not! Kristina Centnere, owner of Ekat Development and founder of Total Wellness Connect, works with top local health and wellness professionals. Connect with her at Kristina.Centnere@gmail.com.
203.975.1000 Go green! 5 Star Printing offers eco-friendly, green printing. When you choose 5 Star Printing, you are not only saving money, you're saving the environment. 5 Star Printing is an eco-friendly printing company, and we offer a choice of recycled paper stocks.
www.5starprinting.com 9 Old North Stamford Rd. Bldg. 35A Stamford, CT 06905
mail@5starprinting.com
eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
53
IT JUST KEEPS GETTING BETTER!
healthykids
Natural Awakenings’ healthy living, healthy planet lifestyle app has a new look and more features. • Updated every month with new content • Search the healthy products in our National Directory • Find your local magazine • Read feature stories En Español • Sign up for Promotions and Newsletters • So much more! • And it’s FREE!
Whole Child Sports
Free Play Earns the Winning Score by Luis Fernando Llosa
M
Search “Natural Awakenings” and download
54
Fairfield County Edition
any parents concerned that their children are getting engulfed by social media often turn to sports to spark physical activity. They scramble to sign their toddlers up for swimming and tennis lessons, T-ball and soccer practice, hoping these activities will teach their kids about motivation and leadership, while getting them off the couch and out the door. They hope that sports will be a conduit for their kids to learn what it takes to strive, drive toward a goal and succeed in later life. As a result, more than 40 million kids across America are engaged in organized play. But youth sports are not a panacea; while parental intentions are good, they sometimes don’t realize the potential for negative consequences. Those that have studied the phenomenon believe that youth sports—which on the surface, appear to provide a perfect environment for children to learn life lessons and develop critical social and physical skills—might hamper our children’s healthy physical, social, psychic and creative development.
natural awakenings
Too Much Too Soon
It seems that many young kids playing on teams today are over-coached by controlling, command-oriented adults. As Jenny Levy, head coach of the University of North Carolina’s 2013 NCAA champion women’s lacrosse team at Chapel Hill puts it, “Kids are kind of like overbred dogs, mimicking the drills we run in practice. They aren’t wired to think creatively. They do what they know. What’s safe.” This kind of behavior can start at an early age, when kids should be engaging in free play with minimal adult supervision in unstructured settings. Parenting expert Kim John Payne, author of Simplicity Parenting and The Soul of Discipline, says, “Parents are giving in to enormous societal pressure to push kids into high-performance sports settings several times a week. It’s an ‘arms race’ of sorts, with the clear victims being the kids themselves that are robbed of their childhoods.” There’s a much more holistic way kids can experience play, including
Why are most American kids getting turned off by sports by the time they should be really leaping into it? ~Steve Biddulph, author, Raising Boys and Raising Girls sports. An American Academy of Pediatrics study attests that free and unstructured play is healthy and essential for helping children reach important social, emotional and cognitive developmental milestones, plus managing stress and becoming resilient. Payne observes, “In free play, children have to actively problem solve and take one another’s feelings into account if the play is to be successful. In sports, the social problem solving is largely extrinsic, facilitated by coaches, referees or parents. During a child’s formative stages, between the ages of 5 and 12, having the freedom to develop, create and innovate is critical.” Creativity isn’t limited to only younger children. How sports are taught in this country at all levels, right up through college, often inhibits athletic creativity and problem solving— as Levy has noticed year after year in the freshmen players she trains—rather
than fostering these attributes.
A Better Alternative
It’s crucial to consider the whole child, not just the budding athlete. To revive a child’s imagination and create better conditions for developing creativity, resiliency and flexibility, contemplate the option of taking a child out of organized youth sports for a while to provide the time, space and opportunity to rediscover childhood play and games. Then support them in re-entering organized athletics when they’re a bit older and more physically and emotionally ready. Also, some kids that get heavily involved in highly structured youth sports too early may be prone to behavioral problems and serious physical injuries. The best thing a parent can do for a young child that is active and interested in sports is roll up their sleeves and join in unscripted backyard or
playground family play. Kids thrive in the attention offered from mom or dad, regardless of parental athletic skill levels. Also, organize play dates with other neighborhood kids of varying ages, because they love to learn from each other, including how to work out disagreements. Once kids are socially, emotionally and physically ready, organized sports can be an amazing platform for fun-filled learning. Having already experienced healthy free play, a child will be ready for and thrive in a more focused, competitive, organized and structured play environment. Fortified by a creative foundation in earlier years, a youngster is better able to identify and express their own mind, body and spirit. Luis Fernando Llosa is the co-author of Beyond Winning: Smart Parenting in a Toxic Sports Environment and co-founder of WholeChildSports.com. A writer, speaker and former Sports Illustrated reporter, he lives in New York City, where he coaches his five kids. For more information, visit LuisFernandoLlosa.com.
CT A���������� C����� G����� P������� E�������� T�������� ��� R����� • Joint Pain • Injuries • Back Pain • Neck Pain
• Sciatica • Migraines • Headaches • Sinus Pain
• Allergies • Stress • Infertility
203-259-1660
www.ctacupuncture.com | Most insurances accepted Ingri Boe-Wiegaard Licensed Acupuncturist
Fairfield 400 Post Road
Bethel 236 Greenwood Ave.
Wilton 1 Danbury Road
eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
55
INSPIRED
TABLE
To advertise or participate in our next issue, call
203-885-4674
inspiredtable Little Organic Vegetarian Epicuria – LOVE - Opens in New Milford
T
he LOVE – Little Organic Vegetarian Epicuria - café has opened at the The Green Spot garden center in the Northville section of New Milford. Opened by Aldina Zullo, an area native newly returned after years in Sedona, Zullo is passionate about serving healthy, nutritious food. The café is available for events such as birthday parties or showers. The location features indoor and outdoor seating areas, including a back porch overlooking the East Aspetuck River. Zullo also does catering from an off-site kitchen. In addition to smoothies, juices, salads and sandwiches, homemade sauces, specialty baked goods, organic herbs and vegetables are featured on the menu. For meat-eaters, she offers locally raised, free-range organic chicken and grass-fed organic beef options. Fresh-squeezed juices and housemade beverages complement the menu. All produce is organic and GMO free. In addition to food, the café also carries Zullo’s Integrity Organics, her line of raw, organic skin and body care products. LOVE is open daily from 8am to 5pm including Sunday brunch. Location: 354 Litchfield Rd, New Milford. To arrange for catering, call 475-529-5971.
Red/Purple Produce is Best for Our Weight and Heart
N
ew research published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition has found the color of the fruits and vegetables we eat may affect our weight and heart health differently. The study followed 1,272 people over a three-year period, beginning in 2006 and 2008. The researchers compared their respective diets over both periods with levels of cholesterol, weight and waist circumference—all measures of obesity. The research grouped fruits and vegetables into red/purple, yellow, green, orange or white. Among women, greater consumption of red/ purple fruits and vegetables was related to lower weight and abdominal fat, lower blood sugar and reduced total cholesterol. Meanwhile, greater consumption of yellow fruits and vegetables was linked to weight gain over the same period. Among men, the researchers found those that ate more red/purple fruits and vegetables had reduced weight and waists compared to those that ate othercolored foods over the three-year period by an average of 13 and 14 percent, respectively. Greater yellow fruit consumption was linked to lower total cholesterol levels. Green and white fruits and vegetables were associated with reduced abdominal fat gain over the three-year period. 56
Fairfield County Edition
natural awakenings
Celebrate the Harvest Season with CT NOFA
O
n October 4, the Northeast Organic Farming Association of Connecticut (CT NOFA) will host the Organic Harvest Jamboree at Washington’s Waldingfield Farm, one of the largest organic vegetable farms in the state. Located high in the Litchfield Hills, this homestead will open its gates so the public may explore its historic farmstead, sample freshly picked vegetables and enjoy scenic views of fall foliage. Organic Harvest Jamboree-goers will feast on a farm-to-festival lunch prepared by Chef Meg Fama, a culinary expert and owner of The Farm Belly food truck. All of the meat, dairy and produce served from The Farm Belly comes from Connecticut farms. While nearly all of the ingredients for this event will come from Waldingfield Farm, Fama will also source from other organic farms such as George Hall Farm and Gentle Giant Farm. The menu may include roasted corn and honey bread, macaroni and cheese, pesto eggplant, roasted beet salad and more. For dessert, she will serve a maple apple crisp and a caramelized pumpkin bread pudding. Black Hog Brewing Company has donated cold adult beverages and Averill Farm – just one hill over – will press a fresh batch of apple cider. In addition to the local meal, attendees can enjoy live bluegrass by Wires & Wood and Five in the Chamber, meet farm animals, take pony rides, get faces painted and play farm-themed games. Adults may also opt for food preservation classes, tour the veggie fields, or try to win in the tea cup raffle. Advance tickets are recommended. All proceeds will benefit CT NOFA (CTNOFA.org) and farm attire is recommended. Blankets and BYOB are welcome. Admission includes farm-to-plate lunches and beverages, farm tours, animal rides, music, games and more. Kids 12 and under are free. Those under 21, current students and farmers are $20. Adult tickets purchased in advance are $35 or $40 at the gate. The Northeast Organic Farming Association of Connecticut (CT NOFA) is a growing community of farmers, gardeners, land care professionals, businesses and consumers dedicated to strengthening the practices of ecologically sound farming and gardening and to the development of local sustainable agriculture. For more information and to reserve/purchase tickets, visit CTNOFA.org/2015_Organic_Harvest_Jamboree.html or call 203-308-2584.
S�r�i�g�t�e�l�c�l� c�m�u�i�y�d�l�c�o�s� p�e� �o� �5�y�a�s! � � � � � � � � � � � � � � F�u�t�S�u�c�d�f�o� �o�a� �a�m� G�u�e�-f�e� �p�i�n� � ★ �o�S�g�r�A�d�d�
HOME DELIVERY!
J�s� �n�t�m� �o� �h�n�s�i�i�g, �a�u�k�h�& �h�i�t�a�! F�E� �i�h�a�y�$6� �r�e� V�s�t�w�i�t�e�t�p�a�e�y.c�m�f�r�f�l� �e�u�s�l�c�i�n. E�a�l�o�d�r� �o: �r�e�s.w�i�t�e�t�p�a�e�y@g�a�l.c�m
A�l�o�d�r� �u�t�b� �l�c�d�o� �e�n�s�a� �o� �e�k�n� �e�i�e�y. T�r�e�d�y�l�a� �i�e�f�r�a�l�o�h�r�d�l�v�r� �a�s.
F�r�m�r� �n�o�m�t�o� �a�l�2�3-5�4-8�3� WHISTLE STOP BAKERY 2� �o�t�a�d�A�e�u�, �i�g�f�e�d, �T�0�8�7 w�i�t�e�t�p�a�e�y.c�m� ★ � � � � �w�i�t�e�t�p�a�e�y
1084 Post Road, Darien • 24 Railroad Place, Westport www.olivettect.com • (203) 621-0643
Chamomille
NATURAL FOODS S I N C E 1978
Need Advice On Your Health Issues?
Customized Nutritional Counseling with Onsite Nutritionist & Herbalist Barry Sherr Join our
Owner, Nutritionist, R.H., A.H.G. Free Loyalty Certified by A.H.S.U. & N.I.N.E Program for Registered Herbalist - A.H.G Reduced Pricing! Decades of Integrity, Dedication, & Service Gift Cards Available 203-792-8952 • Rt. 6 Plaza (58-60 Newtown Rd.) Danbury, CT 06810 www.ChamomilleNaturalFoods.com eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
57
inspiredtable LOVE WHAT YOU EAT Drive in. Drive out. Let us fuel your day. WRAPS | KITCHEN SALADS WARM KITCHEN BOWLS | 100% JUICES FRUIT & VEGGIE BLENDS | HEALTHY SNACKS & TREATS
205 Post Road • Darien, CT 06820 or try ONLINE ORDERING for PICK UP & DELIVERY www.palmwich.com | 203•309•5216
delicious • healthy • natural • fresh • real food • on-the-go
Nature’s Temptations
Your HealTHY FooD MarKeT
where community and healthy food is our priority
orgaNic • local • SuSTaiNable Produce • Meats & Seafood • Bulk Foods Juice Bar • Cafe • Prepared Foods • Deli Vitamins • Health & Beauty • Well Baby Catering for all Occasions
naturestemptations.com
WEstport
w e s t p o r t f a r m e r s m a r k e t. c o m
58
Fairfield County Edition
natural awakenings
Sustainable Butchery Expands to Greenwich; Offers Classes
F
leisher’s Craft Butchery, a whole animal, sustainable butchery, is opening a new butcher shop in Greenwich. There are also new instructional classes at the Westport location and a confirmed date for its annual Porktoberfest event. Fleisher’s only uses animals that have been pasture-raised humanely on small Connecticut and New York farms on a vegetarian diet free of hormones and antibiotics. The new location in Greenwich is a retail butcher shop, as well as a grab-and-go market. The shop will carry cuts of organic beef, pork and chicken, as well as house-made sausages and burger blends. The market will have select produce and seasonal grab-and-go and provisions as well as heat-and-serve foods, including meatballs, stocks and sauces. The Greenwich location will also have a pick-up, drop-off and on-site catering service. Fleisher’s has an in-depth instructional teaching program for all levels of cooks and aspiring butchers. This fall, the company is holding five, one-night Tuesday classes from 6-8pm at the Westport location. The fee for each class is $100 per person. • Sausage Making 101 (October 6): As part of their Pigto-Pork series, this class will teach you all about stuffing, twisting, and linking your very own sausage. • Beef Butchery 101 (October 20): Fleisher’s expert butchers will take you through an entire steer in this seminar covering sustainable sourcing, anatomy and cooking tips. • Lamb Butchery 101 (November 3): In this class, you will learn about Fleisher’s sustainable butchery philosophy as their experts break down a whole lamb. • Knife Skills and Poultry 101 with Victorinox Swiss Army (November 17): In this practical, hands-on class, you will learn the basics of handling a knife in your home kitchen, as well as tips and tricks for breaking down and carving the ultimate holiday bird. Fleisher’s is also introducing its own Meat Stix, made from 100 percent grass-fed, antibiotic and gluten-free beef and pork with no added nitrites, MSG or soy. They will be available at the shops and online via the new e-commerce shop at Fleishers.com. On October 25, Fleisher’s will be hosting the 4th Annual Porktoberfest in Westport. Dust off your lederhosen and get ready for a full day of whole-roasted pigs, flowing beer, homemade sausages, an Austrian band and more. This will be a family friendly event with plenty of non-alcoholic cider, s’mores and games for kids. For more information, visit Fleishers.com. Greenwich Location: 160 East Putnam Ave, Greenwich. Westport location: 580 Riverside Ave, Westport.
Bigelow’s New Line of Organic Home Blend Iced Teas
T
he Bigelow family, based in Fairfield, has introduced a crafted line of certified organic, brewed and bottled iced teas. Made from organic tea leaves and natural flavor ingredients, Bigelow Home Blend Iced Teas offers a fresh brewed taste and the healthful benefits of polyphenols. “As the number one specialty tea company in the U.S, we are so thrilled we could create recipes that not only taste so delicious, they were blended specifically to be loaded with the antioxidants levels usually only found in brewed tea,” says Cindi Bigelow, the family company’s CEO and third-generation president. “Our new family recipes have the same polyphenol count as found in drinking a cup of brewed green tea.” All five flavor varieties of Bigelow Home Blend Iced Tea are brewed from special family recipes, including Sweet Orchard Peach, Half & Half tea/lemonade, Citrus Pomegranate Green Tea, Mango Lychee Green Tea and Simply Unsweetened. Complimenting one zero-calorie unsweetened variety are four varieties that are lightly sweetened with real organic cane sugar – all 70 calories per serving or under. The ingredients are 100 percent certified USDA organic, non-GMO and gluten free. Bigelow Home Blend Iced Teas are available in cold boxes and floor displays at grocery stores. The MSRP for each 16 oz. bottle is $1.79.
SAT
november 7th 10am to 4pm
SUn
november 8th 10am to 4pm
Hilton Stamford Hotel 1 First Stamford Place Stamford, CT
Sample gluten-free foods, Attend demonstrations and Learn from the experts!
Purchase tickets in advance! Go to
www.GlutenFreeFoodAllergyFest.com Use PROMO code NACT15 for 20% off your tickets Additional Sponsors:
NaturalAwakeningsAd_Stamford.indd 1
9/17/15 9:04 AM
For more information, visit BigelowTea.com.
eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
59
consciouseating
The Specialty Food Association reports that sales of specialty foods—primarily at grocery retailers, but also cottage operators via farmers’ markets and direct orders when allowed by their state—grew 22 percent from 2010 to 2012, topping $85 billion.
The Food Artisans Next Door Homemade Delicacies,
Direct from Our Neighbors by Lisa Kivirist and John Ivanko
Neighbors in most states can now legally buy fresh breads, cookies and preserves from local food artisans.
T
he locavore movement of eating locally produced foods continues to expand, thanks to 42 states passing cottage food laws that permit community members to make certain foods at home to sell to neighbors. Some enterprises use a contract packer to deliver on a scale not possible domestically, or even operate from a commercially licensed production facility. From sauerkraut and distinctive jams and organic jellies to gluten- or peanut-free cakes and regional artisanal breads, some of the most flavorful products are being produced with no chemical preservatives, artificial colors or other laboratory ingredients. Nearly all are made in small batches, and usually by the owner. Many source local ingredients or serve special dietary needs largely underserved or ignored by larger food businesses. “In a sharing economy, individuals look less to big chain stores for their food needs and more to each other, making fresher, tastier and often healthier foods more accessible,” explains Janelle Orsi, co-founder of the Oakland, California, Sustainable Economies Law Center (SELC), citing its Policies for Shareable Cities report partnered with the nonprofit Shareable.
60
Fairfield County Edition
natural awakenings
photo courtesy of Epiphany Gluten Free Bakery, Naples, FL
Healthy as it Comes
“All of our products are made by hand and in small batches daily,” says Ruth Wardein, co-owner, with Andrew Amick, of Epiphany Gluten Free Bakery, in Naples, Florida, which she launched from her home kitchen. Besides gluten-free cookies, cakes and breads, she’s always “perfecting” her Paleo cookies, brownies and pancake mix. Paleo recipes contain no grains, dairy, yeast or refined sugars, explains Wardein. “They require nut and seed flours, coconut oil and natural sugars like honey or maple syrup. So they are naturally higher in protein and fiber and lower in carbs than the average gluten-free recipe.” “We’re experimenting with the community supported agriculture model with local fruit,” says Erin Schneider. She and her husband, Rob McClure, operate Hilltop Community Farm, in LaValle, Wisconsin, which produces value-added products with organically grown crops. “We have salsas, pickles and jams. Our black currant and honey jam is sold before it’s made. Rob’s garlic dills have their own following.” Wisconsin’s cottage food law restricts sales to only high-acid foods.
Quality over Quantity
In Royal Oaks, California, Garden Variety Cheese owner, cheesemaker and shepherd Rebecca King feeds her 100 milking ewes organically raised, irrigated pasture grass and brewer’s grain to yield award-winning farmstead easier-todigest sheep cheeses from her Monkeyflower Ranch. “Many first-time customers like my story as a small producer and want to buy direct from the farm. They keep buying because of the taste,” says King. “My marinara and pizza sauces are made in small batches by hand in a home kitchen, enabling us to hot pack them to retain the ingredients’ natural favors,” says Liz James, owner of The Happy Tomato, in Charlottesville, Virginia. Her sauces are also low in sodium and contain no sugar, saturated fat or gluten. James’ production is facilitated by Virginia’s home food processor license, which lets her work from home and sell wholesale. Whole Foods Market is among her major retail accounts. When home-based cottage food businesses are spurred into expansion to keep up with demand, a situation sometimes complicated by state limits on sales volume, many opt for renting space in the growing number of incubator, or community, kitchens nationwide. “We did farmers’ markets for three years and went from seven customers to thousands,” says Wardein, who now rents a commercial kitchen space. “Returning customers are the momentum that has pushed us forward.” “By growing food in and around our own neighborhoods and cities, we decrease our dependence on an oftentimes unjust and ecologically destructive global food
system and build stronger, more connected and resilient communities,” affirms Yassi Eskandari-Qajar, director of SELC’s City Policies program. “We think it’s important to produce what grows well on our soil and then sell it, so that ecology drives eco-
nomics, rather than vice versa,” says Schneider. “Random things prosper in our area, like paprika peppers, elderberries, hardy kiwi, garlic, pears and currants. It’s our job as ecologicallyminded farmers to show how delicious these foods can be.”
Lisa Kivirist and John Ivanko are coauthors of the new book Homemade for Sale, a guide for launching a food business from a home kitchen, plus ECOpreneuring, Farmstead Chef and Rural Renaissance. Learn more at HomemadeForSale.com.
marketprofiles Nature’s Temptations
The Common Bond Market
32 Prospect St, Ridgefield 203-438-5443 Jeff@NaturesTemptations.com NaturesTemptations.com Facebook.com/NaturesTemptations Twitter.com/NaturesTempt
40 Huntington St, Shelton Grocery@TheCommonBondMarket.com TheCommonBondMarket.com Facebook.com/TheCommonBondMarket Twitter.com/TCBMShelton
Business summary: Natural food market, full service deli, prepared foods to-go, vegetarian/vegan options, organic juice bar & cafe, on-staff naturopathic physician What community resources do you offer? On-staff naturopathic physician and holistic health counselor, tastings, product demos, cooking classes What percentage of your merchandise is locally sourced vs. sourced from regional or national brands? We sell 20 percent locally sourced products to decrease carbon footprint and to provide fresher, more nutritious foods. Do you purchase produce from local farms? Snow Hill Farm. Do you have a presence at local farmers markets and/or community events? No current presence at any farmers markets. We are active in the local community and thrilled to be participating with the Boys & Girls Club of Ridgefield SMART Moves: Healthy Habits program by donating 100% organic fruits and veggies each week. Healthy Habits emphasizes good nutrition, regular physical activity and improving overall well-being. We will also be a part of the upcoming Destination Wellness Expo in Ridgefield on Saturday, November 7. What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about your business? We are a community resource for a balanced lifestyle through clean eating and nutritional support with supplements and holistic practices.
Business summary: We have a full selection of natural and organic products, with a deli, supplement department, and freshly made hot food daily. What community resources do you offer? We have a Naturopathic Doctor on staff who does free consultations twice a week. Lecture series to come! What percentage of your merchandise is locally sourced vs. sourced from regional or national brands? We remain committed to helping bring new products to the market. This helps our regional community prosper and allows us to provide products that many other businesses cannot. Do you purchase produce from local farms? We purchase produce from Guy’s Eco-Garden, These Things Take Thyme, and Norton Brothers. We are always looking to expand our selection of local produce. Do you have a presence at local farmers markets and/or community events? We will be participating in the upcoming Shelton Day near the slab in Shelton. We are always looking for new opportunities for exposure! What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about your business? We have an incredible selection of products and a remarkably dedicated staff. It’s just as fun to shop here as it is to work here.
eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
61
From Inspiration to Commercialization Local Food Producers Share Their Stories by Sheri Hatfield
FRESH FROM OUR HERITAGE Connecticut’s food history is rich with stories of people who took things into their own hands to grow, create, cook or harvest the best quality food for themselves, their families and their communities. With the growth of the local artisan food trend, Connecticut’s present and future is ripe with possibilities for people interested to do the same thing. From local farms supplying fresh fruits, herbs and vegetables to new farm-to-table restaurants to parents caring for their families and family traditions by producing locally grown and produced foods, citizens are blessed with an abundance of options for good food here in Fairfield County. 62
Fairfield County Edition
CONNECTICUT’S CARING PAST During the 1930s, Westport resident and mother of three, Margaret Rudkin, was not only battling the Great Depression, but also struggling to deal with the severe asthma and allergies that plagued one of her sons. She limited commercially processed foods and decided to bake him some all-natural, stone-ground wheat bread that still had its natural vitamins and nutrients. Rudkin then started selling the bread to her son’s doctor and local grocers; her husband even carried it on the train to New York City to be sold in specialty shops. Now, the company built on a mother’s love for her son’s health is owned by Campbell Soup Company
natural awakenings
and has become one of the commercially processed foods Rudkin was trying to avoid. In 2000, Kelly Flatley and Brendan Synnott took their passion for good, wholesome granola and started Bare Naked, Inc. Flatley started making her own granola in college as food fuel for her daily life. Using her own preference for soft-baked moist cereal with lots of extras like whole almonds, raisins and walnuts, she launched Bare Naked in Connecticut in 2002. She began baking wholesome granola at night and delivering it to stores the next day. Flatley was soon joined by her friend, Synnott, who had bigger plans for the little company. They eventually attracted Stew Leonard, Jr., who was impressed with their enthusiasm and invited them into his office and stores. It wasn’t long until Kellogg’s, a competitor, became interested and bought the brand to complement its Kashi line of products (Source: Money.CNN.com/2008/02/05/ smbusiness/bear_naked.fsb). While these are two examples of good-hearted intentions gone big, they are also examples of what can be done with an idea, a passion, a lot of love and some faith. There are hundreds of other local growers, farmers, food producers and entrepreneurs currently working all over Connecticut.
CONNECTICUT LOCALS CREATING ARTISAN FOOD There are many people today creating a business out of their passion and the desire to feed their families something better, or nourish the soul along with the body. These homegrown food producers are visiting farmers’ markets, craft fairs and food expos to sample their wares and start a following. They have moved from testing out recipes on family and friends to creating or renting commercial kitchens so that they can bake, bottle and distribute their creations. They work long hours day and night to create their food. They create their own packaging, websites and marketing materials to get their products out to the public. They are chief bottle washer and CEO at the same time. They are neighbors and friends and, quite often, parents.
Sarah Galluzzo, creator of GourGanics salsas, is one on them. As she started her family, Galluzzo began to take note of what was in her food. The more she learned about food, the more her family began to eat organic. She started by making her own baby food then began to think about other, healthy alternatives she could create for her growing kids. Eventually, she turned to her family’s heritage and love of food. She was inspired by her French-Canadian grandparents, who shared their love of gardening and celebrated the fruits of their labor at the family dinner table in the form of salads, soups and homemade meals. She began to ensure her children were “eating off the vine”. With her family heritage of using fresh vegetables in cooking, and some free time on her hands, Galluzzo started making salsa. One evening while enjoying her homemade salsa with a neighbor, she asked, “What’s next?” Her neighbor responded with, “Why don’t you just bottle this salsa and sell it? It’s amazing!” Then and there, GourGanics was born. GourGanics is currently being sold at national and regional health food stores like Whole Foods, Mrs. Greens and other local independent stores that Galluzzo reports have “been amazing with their support.” “I didn’t come into this with a basic knowledge of a chef,” Galluzzo
said. “I had to figure lots of things out on my own.” She figured it out in a small rental commercial kitchen in Oxford with a $2,000 budget. She engaged the help of many friends and family members in the early days to help her get started. “I had a lot of support from people who love me and my mission,” Galluzzo explained. “My mom was with me chopping onions and peppers.” The onions and peppers used in GourGanics today come mainly from two Connecticut farms, Oxon Hill Farm in Suffield and George Hall Farm in Simsbury; it allows her consumers and fans to “eat from a Connecticut garden all year round.” Galluzzo now produces her product in a large commercial facility in New Haven, providing local jobs in addition to supporting the farmers. Pam Nicholas is another example of a mom creating something better for her child and, in the process, starting a new business. Just before the age of one, her daughter Izzi had an allergic reaction to eggs. That spurred Nicholas, a chef, to create an egg-free birthday cake for Izzi’s birthday. Then she thought, “If I didn’t have culinary experience, how would I do this? If I had a child with celiacs who had an egg allergy, what would I do?” That’s when Izzi B’s Allergen-Free Bakery was started. “I wanted to make something for
1525 Black Rock Tpke Fairfield CT 06825 203.576.1455
We are a full service bakery specializing in custom cakes, gourmet cupcakes, pastries, cookies and desserts. Gluten free options are available.
www.alinaspatisserie.com Home
everyone,” Nicholas explained. “So I decided to take out all allergens.” Now Izzi B’s makes all types of baked good, from cookies to cakes that are free of gluten, wheat, soy, dairy, eggs, all nuts and casein. They also have no preservatives, trans-fats, refined sugar and cholesterol; her food is also vegan and kosher certified as well as celiacfriendly. It took nine months to perfect the first cupcake recipe and, in the past six years, the bakery has expanded from Nicholas’s kitchen to a brick-andmortar commercial bakery in Norwalk. She supplies allergen-free baked goods to local and regional stores such as Whole Foods, Mrs. Green’s and other independent Fairfield County grocers, including Caraluzzi’s. Not all creations are inspired by dietetic needs; some come from a deep desire to help make the world a better place. Mary Jane Paris – MJ to her friends – came up with the idea of Positiv-a-Tea while driving one day. After leaving the corporate banking world, Paris started her own consulting company called Positive Impact Consulting Service, aimed at helping clients create a more positive workplace with workshops and team-building and morale-boosting trainings. As she contemplated how to make her business unique, she had the idea of serving tea at her events and trainings. She knew the tea had to be hers and it had to help represent her brand of positive thinking. Positiva-Tea was born. She teamed up with Rosemari Roast, owner of A Walk in the Woods, LLC and a board-certified holistic health practitioner and a certified herbalist with an apothecary in her home. Together, they created Paris’s unique blend of herbal tea, which includes hibiscus, lemon, orange flower, rose water and a dash of cinnamon and lavender. Requests to buy the special Positiv-a-Tea blend started a chain of events that led to several years of traveling to fairs, festivals and markets to sell her tea. In a move she believes inspires a positive attitude for a higher good, the grandmother of four now sells her tea at local stores, day spas and other venues in the Naugatuck
eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
63
Whole Foods Market is bringing you natural & organic foods at premium quality, not premium prices. Westport 399 Post Road West, CT 203.227.6858 Greenwich 90 E. Putnam Avenue, CT 203.661.0631 Darien 150 Ledge Road, CT 203.662.0577
ROASTED SPAGHETTI SQUASH WITH ALMOND CURRY (Serves 4)
This casserole-style entrée uses the shells of spaghetti squash as a baking dish for a fun and easy vegan meal
INGREDIENTS:
Visit these area markets to find excellent, locally produced goods:
Chamomille Natural Foods Rt 6 Plaza (58-60 Newtown Rd), Danbury 203-792-8952
• Preheat the oven to 375°F. Halve squash lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out seeds and discard. Place squash cut-side down in a 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour 1 cup water into the dish and roast until squash shells are tender when pressed with your finger, about 30 minutes. Let sit until cool enough to handle. Leave oven on. • Meanwhile, pour tomatoes into a strainer set over a bowl. Set tomatoes aside and pour juice into a blender. Add almond butter, curry powder and 1/4 teaspoon of the salt and blend until smooth. • Rake a fork back and forth across squash to remove flesh in strands, keeping shells intact. Transfer squash to a bowl and toss with remaining 1/8 teaspoon salt. Return shells cut-side up to the baking dish. Spoon one-third of the squash into shells, dividing evenly. Top with half of the tomatoes and half of the greens, then drizzle with about one-third of the almond sauce. Repeat the layering. Top with remaining squash and sauce. Roast until filling is heated through and greens have wilted, about 15 minutes. Fairfield County Edition
Sheri Hatfield is a freelance writer and co-founder of an emerging children’s museum in Shelton. Contact her at Sheri@DayDreamerConsulting.com
Bantam Market 793 Bantam Rd, Bantam 860-567-8647
1 small (2 1/2 pound) spaghetti squash 1 can no-salt-added diced tomatoes 1/2 cup unsweetened almond butter 2 teaspoons curry powder 1/4 teaspoon plus 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt , divided 3 cups thinly sliced greens, such as baby kale or spinach
64
Valley and upper Fairfield area where she believes people might need a positive boost in their day. Often necessity is the mother of invention, however sometimes it is just good intentions. In 1991, Winthrop and Stefanie Baum had a pond dug on their property. The dirt that came out of the hole was so fertile, Winthrop thought it would be a shame to waste it. He put it to good use and planted a fruit orchard. Later that spring, he was concerned that he did not have enough bees to pollinate the blooming trees. He visited two different local health food stores looking for local honey and found Ed and Nita Weiss, who graciously agreed to spend several hours with the Baums teaching them about bee keeping. The Baum’s started with two hives in 1991 and now have 60 hives from which they harvest roughly 3,0004,000 pounds of honey each year. That honey, sold as Bee Baum, can be found at local delis – such as Oscar’s Deli in Westport and Winfield Deli in Norwalk – or at other local health food and farm stores, including Aspetuck Valley Apple Barn in Easton. The couple found that many people used the local honey to help with seasonal allergies, as well as soothe a sore throat or act as a balm to disinfect cuts and scrapes. Whether you’re looking to create a new food offering, support a local farm, restaurant or food producer, Connecticut and Fairfield County have something for everyone. Lists of artisan food producers and farms can be found at FairfieldGreenFoodGuide.com and CTNOFA.org.
natural awakenings
Common Bond Market 40 Huntington St, Shelton 203-513-8200 Healthfare 2 Morse Ct, New Canaan 203-966-5400 Nature’s Temptations 32 Prospect St, Ridgefield 203-438-5443
Nature’s Way Natural Foods 922 Barnum Cutoff, Stratford 203-377-3652 New Morning Market 129 Main St N, Woodbury 203-263-4868 Northville Market 301 Litchfield Rd, New Milford 860-799-4015 The Organic Market 285 Post Rd E, Westport 203-227-9007 The Well 33 Danbury Rd, Wilton 203-762-9711
Thursday, November 12th 7pm to 9pm Join us at The Common Bond Market’s second annual Night of Beauty, where you can enjoy a make-up make-over or soothing chair massage, and talk with our Dr. Elise Panza about beauty from the inside out. Explore natural skin care and sample the products of our vendors. Enhance your evening with light refreshments including treats by our chef Kristine Cybart.
E
xperience a very special night at The Common Bond Market
40 Huntington St., across from the Huntington Green, eNaturalAwakenings.com Shelton, CT 06484 203 513-8200
October 2015
65
COMING IN NOVEMBER
inspiration
True Wealth is Health
HEAVEN WITHIN by Wayne Dyer
November’s Natural Awakenings will focus on Fairfield and southern Litchfield counties’ holistic dentists, vision care providers, health coaches and nutritionists involved with helping people achieve a healthier way of life. We invite anyone in these fields to showcase your work and explain who you are and what you offer to the more than 70,000 monthly readers in Fairfield and lower Litchfield counties!
To advertise or participate in our next issue, call
203-885-4674 66
Fairfield County Edition
H
eaven is a state of mind, not a location, since Spirit is everywhere and in everything. You can begin making a conscious decision to look for the unfolding of Spirit in everything and everyone that you encounter. I personally do this by making an effort to look upon my world as if I were observing it through lenses that filter out the form and all of the material aspects of what I’m seeing, and I can only view the spiritual energy that allows what I’m noticing to exist. Try putting on these imaginary magical lenses and see how different everything appears. I now see spiritual energy in everyone I encounter. When I’m tempted to judge anyone, I remind myself to view them through my special lenses. When I can do so, all negative judgment dissolves. I feel more peaceful knowing that I’m not just this body that I’m destined to discard. I also feel the life-giving Spirit within me on a daily basis, and it’s exhilarating! Being more balanced spiritually and physically gives me the opportunity to be in a continual state of gratitude and awe. I see miracles everywhere. Try changing your view of the world to one of awe and wonder. Rather than looking for miracles, shift to seeing everything as miraculous. By being
natural awakenings
in a state of awe, you won’t be able to mentally experience boredom or disappointment. Try seeing the invisible Divine flowing through and supporting everyone and everything. A rainstorm becomes a miraculous event, the lightning a fascinating display of electrical fireworks, the thunder a booming reminder of the invisible power of nature. Live the mystery by beginning to perceive what average eyes fail to notice. Wayne Dyer, Ph.D. {May 10, 1940 – Aug. 29, 2015}, affectionately called the “father of motivation” by his fans, was an internationally renowned author, speaker and pioneer in the field of self-development. Over the four decades of his career, he wrote more than 40 books (including 21 New York Times bestsellers), created numerous audio programs and videos and appeared on thousands of television and radio shows. DrWayneDyer.com includes information on his new book, Memories of Heaven: Children’s Astounding Recollections of the Time Before They Came to Earth, released this month.
wisewords
EPA: A Muzzled Watchdog E.G. Vallianatos Seeks to Put Bite Back into the Agency by Randy Kambic
Of the many cases you cite of the EPA failing to curb industry wrongdoing, which one most compellingly signals the problem? It has to do with laboratories that test for human health and environmental
effects of chemicals used by farmers and drug manufacturers. Adrian Gross, at the EPA, accidentally discovered the greatest fraud [in this field], committed by a massive laboratory outside Chicago named Industrial Bio-Test that was confirmed by inspector colleagues at the Food and Drug Administration and eventually the EPA. It was being paid by the industry to test their chemicals, and instead of doing an honest accounting of chemicals registered with and approved by the government, they would fix the numbers to secure approval for the drugs or chemicals. The EPA shut down this laboratory in 1983, yet continues to outsource much of its responsibilities. Despite this and other illegal and criminal activities, the government still allows the chemical industry to test its own chemicals. It casts tremendous doubt on the reliability and credibility of the process. It’s the Achilles heel of the regulatory system. Science has been the greatest victim of this manipulation. Industry should be forbidden to test its own products and we need to establish truly independent laboratories. photo by Sonja Stump
E
.G. Vallianatos firmly believes that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is failing to adequately protect us. His deeply rooted conviction springs from 25 years of working for the agency. His latest book, Poison Spring: The Secret History of Pollution and the EPA, co-authored with environmental journalist McKay Jenkins, chronicles what he attests are numerous cases of lack of enforcement, corruption and misuse of science and public trust that have transformed it into a “polluter’s protection agency.” He especially documents the dangers of chemicals that enter our air, soil and water every day that are either approved—or sometimes ignored—by the agency. He’s the author of four previous books, including Harvest of Devastation and This Land is Their Land: How Corporate Farms Threaten the World, and blogs for The Huffington Post. Vallianatos, who transitioned from championing integrity from inside the EPA in 2004, recommends ways to change how the agency operates. Key needs include improved site selection for garbage dumps, oil refineries and manufacturers; and strong support for organic, sustainable and small-scale farming.
In Poison Spring, what do you mean by, “Women have long been getting the brunt of global pollution”? In 1977, a former colleague testified to Congress on the discovery of DDT and other chemicals in mother’s milk. Today, we find it includes many more
widely used chemicals such as Monsanto’s herbicide glyphosate. Breast milk has been contaminated by what mothers eat, breathe and drink. Even beyond milk, they have no option not to pass on what’s in their bodies to their newborn. We have forced women to put the next generation at risk. If anyone wants to know the biggest factor on why the healthcare system is failing, this is it.
Fracking is the latest crisis of which the EPA is, in your words, “once again looking the other way.” How can we halt it? Fracking sends tremendous volumes of water mixed with more than 100 toxic chemicals deep into the Earth using intense pressure, smashing bedrock and other sediments to release gas and perhaps petroleum. Fracking not only contaminates groundwater, escaping methane gas is entering the atmosphere and warming the planet. It also causes lots of earthquakes. People can demand a ban of fracking in their neighborhoods. States and communities are beginning to do so.
Is it possible that the EPA can become truly independent, and how can we move forward together toward integrity? As more people are affected by the way industry is poisoning our environment, they’ll face the reality that we need the EPA to be much more strongly protective and isolated from the political corruption that’s been tying its hands. I love that the EPA employs many vitally important and capable scientists. Criticisms stem from its overall corruption by the political system. We need to have a Supreme Court-like EPA with an overall administrator appointing deputies, people with integrity that are open-minded as to what must be done if this country is to be healthy. Randy Kambic is a freelance writer and editor in Southwest Florida who regularly contributes to Natural Awakenings.
eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
67
petbriefs The Monthly Naturally Healthy Pet Section Starts Here!
For information on how you can be a part of a future issue, call
203-885-4674
or email NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com
Handmade personalized pet food created with organic + sustainably raised ingredients #realpetfood
utmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic and Community Cats are teaming up for a large fall adoption event to find homes for their many adoptable cats. The adoption event will be held at Petco in Norwalk from noon to 4pm on October 17. Trap-neuter-return programs for outdoor cats find friendly homeless cats who are living outside. Over the past five years, it is consistently the case that approximately half of the cats that Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic and Community Cats have rescued have been friendly and in need of homes rather than able to be released back outside. While kittens are adopted quickly, adult cats can take longer to be adopted, especially if they are older, shy when meeting new people, or have unpopular coat markings. Join Nutmeg and Community Cats at the inaugural Someone Fur Everyone event where you can take quizzes to meet your match, join in fun activities with prizes and learn about the work of the two organizations. To view some of the adoptable cats prior to the event, visit Petfinder.com Location of adoption event: Petco in Norwalk, 431 Westport Ave. For more information, visit Community Cats at CommunitycatsCT.org or Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic at 203-690-1550 or NutmegClinic.org. See ad, page 70.
S
tratford Animal Rescue Society (STARS) will hold its annual Fall Festival to Benefit Animals on, October 11 from 11am to 5pm at Paradise Green in downtown Stratford. This year’s activities include a one-mile dog walk, food, contests, canine demonstrations, games, music, local celebrities and a silent auction. Vendors offering goods for people and pets will provide an interesting array of products for holiday shopping consideration. The festival is STARS’ largest fundraiser and all proceeds sustain their mission of rescuing and rehoming homeless animals. Pets will be available for viewing/ adoption at the event. The one-mile dog walk scheduled to begin at 1pm is held in honor of Lois Minto. Minto was a kind and compassionate individual who passed away in 2013; she is credited with the idea for the dog walk. Preregistration for the dog walk is encouraged; it costs $20 for up to two dogs on the day of the event. Check-in for the dog walk is 11am to 12:30pm, but this time is subject to change.
County!
paulscustompetfood.com Fairfield County Edition
N
STARS’ Fall Festival to Benefit Animals
Free Delivery in Fairfield
68
Someone Fur Everyone at Fall Cat Adoption Event
Location: Stratford Paradise Green, Main St., Stratford. For more information or to preregister for the dog walk, visit STARSfest.org. See ad, page 71.
natural awakenings
naturalpet
column and nervous system, as well as its crucial role in maintaining overall health. This methodology for animals is especially helpful for enhancing performance—in breeding, training and grooming dogs to conform to the specifications of American Kennel Club dog shows and/or agility competitions—and for horses that compete as jumpers, distance race horses or barrel racers.
Exacting Practicum
Animal Chiropractic
The Benefits of a Well-Adjusted Pet by Linda Sechrist
A
lthough pet owners may consider animal chiropractic services as a modern-day phenomenon, it’s been around since the early 1920s. Proof resides at the Palmer College of Chiropractic library in a report describing an equine chiropractic adjustment course created by B. J. Palmer, who expanded on the work of his father, D.D. Palmer, the founder of chiropractic. It also houses the doctor
of chiropractic veterinary diploma issued to graduates. Today, the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association (AVCA) is the primary national source of credentials in a field of medicine that treats horses, dogs, cats, cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, elephants, birds and reptiles. Human and animal chiropractic medicine deals with describing the relationship between the spinal
Final Journey,
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Bob Willard, in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, is certified to perform spinal adjustments and acupuncture on animals. Having practiced equine sports medicine since 1982, Willard elected in 2005 to extend his education with 200 hours of classroom and laboratory training according to the standard of the International Veterinary Chiropractic Association. Willard had been a skeptic prior to his personal experience. “To help me deal with a compound fracture, my wife dragged me to see a chiropractor. After reaping the physical benefits, I was naturally curious to learn more. Today, I treat the majority of my patients with chiropractic and acupuncture before using conventional treatments,” advises Willard, who emphasizes that he finds these complementary therapies useful in preventing injuries. At one of the barns Willard works with, nearly every performance horse gets an adjustment every 30 days, because the owners can spot subtle differences long before a potential injury occurs. In North America, laws and regulations governing animal chiropractic differ by state. American Veterinary
IS YOUR DESTINATION WELLNESS? LLC
( Pet Euthanasia Service )
Kristen Klie, D.V. M. and Associates
( 203 ) 645-5570 www.finaljourneyllc.com
Do you want to maintain or achieve wellness for you, your family and your pets easily and affordably? Call now for a free no-obligation consultation ($45 value)
203-994-5308 • 203-994-1815 HandsAndPawsReiki.com • ReikiHandsAndPaws@gmail.com eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
69
“Animal chiropractic techniques Medicine Association guidelines recomOctober is can also help with symptoms such as mend that a veterinarian should examine National Chiropractic lameness, skin problems, bladder and an animal and establish a preliminary bowel irregularities, sight and hearing diagnosis before initiating any alternative Health Month. loss, breathing difficulties, food and envitreatment. In some locations, a veterinarian ronmental allergies and gait abnormalities,” advises Docmust supervise treatments by an animal chiropractor that’s tor of Chiropractic Sherry Bresnahan. Licensed in the care not also a vet. of humans and animals, she holds AVCA certification and Doctor of Chiropractic Donna Gigliotti, who practices applies her extensive postgraduate training at Crystal Lake at Macungie Animal Hospital, in Macungie, Pennsylvania, Veterinary Hospital, in Crystal Lake, Illinois. has been treating animals in collaboration with local veterinarians since 1997. She regularly lectures on the benefits and combines techniques such as neurofascial release, Owner Alert “A pet’s biggest asset is an observant owner. No one knows which affects the joints, muscles, ligaments and brain. This type of therapy is highly effective in treating genetic predis- their constant companion better,” says Bresnahan. “It’s why vets hear statements such as, ‘My cat’s meow is off,’ or, positions such as canine intervertebral disc disease, which can occur in any dog, but most particularly the dachshund, ‘My dog is acting lethargic,’ or ‘My pet’s eyes seem dull.’ In performance animals like horses, it’s generally the rider that Lhasa apso and Shih Tzu. Selected for a genetic form of spots something that’s off.” dwarfism, these breeds have discs prone to this age-related She explains that although she doesn’t need to apply form of degeneration. any more chiropractic pressure on animals than she uses To help delay such related impacts, Gigliotti teaches on people, it is necessary to stand on bales of hay to place owners to work with their pet to train them to perform the upper body and hands at the correct angle when makbalance exercises that develop the core muscles which ing an adjustment on a horse or rodeo bull. hold the spine firmly in place. “I don’t want to repeat Chiropractors that specialize in treating animals are edly see a dog for the same issues when it’s possible for adept at reading the body language of nearly any creature, the animal to maintain the adjustment with the owner’s which can speak volumes about their health challenges. help,” notes Gigliotti, who is among a few doctors that have completed advanced neurology training for aniLinda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural mals at the Healing Oasis Wellness Center, in Sturtevant, Awakenings. Connect at ItsAllAboutWe.com. Wisconsin.
70
Fairfield County Edition
natural awakenings
INTEGRATIVE VETERINARY MEDICINE Combining the Best Options for Care to Maximize Health by Mary Oquendo
A
recipe for chicken soup is pretty basic. Start with a chicken, a pot of water, chicken stock, carrots, potatoes, onion, garlic, celery, and then throw in some spices. If even one ingredient is left out, it changes the taste of the soup. The same principle can be applied to integrative veterinary medicine (IVM). IVM is a comprehensive approach that combines conventional and complementary therapies, as well as lifestyle consultations. The veterinarian takes all facets into consideration and makes a plan that best suits the pet. All three elements, while vastly different, are equally important. CONVENTIONAL VETERINARY MEDICINE Where conventional medicine shines is in diagnostic tools and pharmaceuticals. Diagnostic tools – such as MRI, ultrasound, blood workups, CAT scans, endoscopy, skin scrapings and X-rays – can pinpoint the problem in hours. Treatment plans include the same cancer treatments available to people, surgery, and life-saving and lifeextending drugs. And when they are not overused, vaccines can eliminate life-threatening illnesses. However, as a general rule, conventional veterinary medicine works from the outside in. Many of the treatments and drugs have negative side effects, but they can also buy the pet time for other modalities to have a chance to work. COMPLEMENTARY OR ALTERNATIVE VETERINARY MEDICINE Many practitioners refer to this as Traditional Veterinary Medicine. Some of these modalities should be performed by a trained veterinarian, including acupuncture, chiropractic, homeopathy and traditional Chinese medicine.
A non-veterinarian practitioner trained in a particular field can perform other therapies such as Reiki, cold laser, light, sound, massage, physical therapy and herbs. Traditional therapies can reduce the side effects of necessary pharmaceuticals and cancer treatments, as well as boost the immune system to help speed healing. Traditional therapies work from the inside out at the very root of the problem. Because of this, traditional therapies may take longer to resolve a medical concern. Sometimes, the pet does not have the time to spare to rely solely on traditional remedies. LIFESTYLE CONSULTATIONS Nothing truly changes until you look at what is really causing the problem. • Environment: To what chemicals and carcinogens from your cleaning and other household products are you subjecting your pet?
• Diet: Are you feeding them speciesappropriate or high-quality food? Or is their diet the equivalent of McDonald’s? • Exercise: Pets with good muscle tone and at a healthy weight will have stronger immune systems. • Grooming: The skin is the largest organ in the body. Poor coat and skin can be the first indicator of an underlying health problem. Whether it is professional or do-it-yourself, maintaining the coat and skin will protect that organ, as well as give you a heads up in detecting injuries and conditions that require your immediate attention. • Stress. When you are stressed, your body gives off hormones that your pets can smell and recognize as a problem. HOW INTEGRATIVE VETERINARY MEDICINE WORKS • Real Case #1 A 7-year-old miniature pinscher was drinking an excessive amount of water, urinating frequently, appeared lethargic and his breath smelled sweet. Conventional medicine did a blood work up and urinalysis, gave a diagnosis of diabetes and prescribed medications. Subsequent lab work was set up to monitor and adjust the medications as necessary. Traditional medicine added in homeopathy and TCM, as well as regular Reiki sessions. Lifestyle consultation resulted in a change in diet.
S TA R S
Fall Festival to Benefit Animals Sunday, October 11 11:00am-5:00pm Paradise Green Stratford
RaIn daTe: Sunday, October 18 eNaturalAwakenings.com
Join the Fun! Includes a one mile dog walk, food, contests, canine demonstrations, games, music, local celebrities, entertainment, pet adoptions, a silent auction, vendors for people and pets and more. To register as a sponsor or vendor, please visit our event website: www.starsfest.org
October 2015
71
Outcome: Insulin was reduced over time. • Real Case #2 A 9-year-old malamute yelped and began limping when she jumped off the bed. Conventional medicine did X-rays and determined it was a torn ACL. Surgery repaired it and pain medications and antibiotics were prescribed. Traditional therapies included physical therapy, flower essences to counteract the anesthesia, regular Reiki sessions and massage. Lifestyle changes included a diet higher in protein, and calming music. Outcome: Recovery time was reduced without the second ACL tearing on the other leg. A second tear on the other leg is a common occurrence. • Real Case #3 A golden retriever, aged 12, presented with a sebaceous cyst that would not heal on its own. Conventional medicine did the surgery to remove the cyst and prescribed pain medications and antibiotics. Traditional medicine added Reiki to speed healing and flower essences to counteract the anesthesia. Lifestyle changes added frozen doggie yogurt because it is her favorite thing to eat. Outcome: She healed quickly while thoroughly enjoying her yogurt. Relying on only one of the constituents of integrative veterinary medicine is like leaving the carrots out or only using chicken for your soup. It is still chicken soup, but it may not taste as good or be as nutritious. Leaving out even one of the ingredients from a pet’s medical care may still be medical care; however, it will have farther-reaching consequences that may even affect quality and longevity of the pet’s life. Mary Oquendo is a Reiki master, advanced crystal master and certified master pet tech pet first aid instructor. She is the co-owner of Hands and PawsReiki for All in New Milford. She can be reached at HandsandPawsReiki.com. See ad, page 69. 72
Fairfield County Edition
petresourceguide ADOPTION/RESCUE ANIMALS IN DISTRESS INC. 238 Danbury Rd, Wilton 203-762-2006 • Animals-In-Distress.com BRIDGEPORT ANIMAL CONTROL 236 Evergreen St, Bridgeport 203-576-7727 BULLY BREED RESCUE PO Box 953, New Canaan BBRCT@yahoo.com BullyBreedRescueInc.org
PAUL’S CUSTOM PET FOOD LLC PO Box 794, New Milford 603-706-0739 Paul@PaulsCustomPetFood.com PaulsCustomPetFood.com
DANBURY ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY (DAWS) 147 Grassy Plain St, Bethel 203-744-3297 FRIENDS OF FELINES, INC. PO Box 8147, Stamford 203-363-0220 Cats@AdoptAPet.org • AdoptAPet.org NFSAW 223 State Rt 37, New Fairfield 203-746-2925 NFSAW.org
Nutrition is your pet’s best friend. We create handmade, personalized pet food and treats with ingredients that are organic, free of GMOs, synthetic chemicals, added growth hormones, unnecessary antibiotics, and preservatives. Food is handmade in small batches. See website for details about ordering or customizing for your pet’s special needs. See ad, page 68.
VETERINARY SERVICES
PET ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY INC. (PAWS) 504 Main Ave, Norwalk 203-750-9572 PAWSCT.org PET PROTECTORS 2490 Black Rock Tpke, #453, Fairfield 203-330-0255 PetProtectorsRescue.org
STRAYS AND OTHERS PO Box 473, New Canaan 203-966-6556 StraysAndOthers@hotmail.com
WESTPORT ANIMAL SHELTER ADVOCATES (WASA) 1 Tower Ridge, Westport 203-557-0361 WestportWASA.org
PET NUTRITION
COMMUNITY CATS PO Box 4380, Stamford CommunityCatsCT@yahoo.com CommunityCatsCT.org
RIDGEFIELD OPERATION FOR ANIMAL RESCUE (ROAR) 45 South St, Ridgefield 203-438-0158 ROAR-Ridgefield.org
TAILS OF COURAGE 1 Pembroke Rd, Danbury 877-63-TAILS TailsOfCourage.org
NUTMEG SPAY/NEUTER CLINIC 25 Charles St, Stratford 203-690-1550 • NutmegClinic.org
The Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic is a low-cost, high-volume facility for cats and dogs, the first such professional clinic in Fairfield County. The clinic offers other low-cost services only during the spay/neuter appointment. Nutmeg honors state spay/neuter vouchers at face value from adopted shelter pets and qualified low-income families and offers further low-cost incentives to nonprofit rescue groups. Pit bulls and mixes are welcome at an an even more reduced rate, and the clinic offers spay/neuter and vaccine discounts for feral cats. See ad, page 70.
Since 2008, we have rescued more than 1000pure and mixed breed dogs and cats from death row and placed them in foster and forever homes! We are a foster-based, no-kill rescue dedicated to saving the lives of homeless, neglected, and abused animals by providing a safe refuge, rehabilitation, and permanent homes.
Please
ADOPT • FOSTER • DONATE • VOLUNTEER www.TheLastResortRescue.com • TheLastResortRescue@gmail.com The Last Resort is a 501(c) non-profit, volunteer-run organization.
natural awakenings
Turn Your Passion Into a Business
Own a Natural Awakenings Magazine Our publishers ranked us among the highest in franchise satisfaction for our Training, Support, Core Values and Integrity! “I am impressed by the range of support provided to franchisees; it seems all the bases are more than covered to provide an owner the ability to be successful. Together with my experience, drive and desire to make a difference, it feels like a good fit.” ~ Holly Baker, Tucson, AZ “Each month, the content is enriching, beneficial and very often profound. We are a source of true enrichment and nourishment for so many. We are bringing light and understanding to millions of people.” ~ Craig Heim, Upstate NY “There’s such strength in this business model: exceptional content from the corporation paired with eyes and ears on the ground here locally. We rock!“ ~ Tracy Garland, Virginia’s Blue Ridge
As a Natural Awakenings publisher, you can enjoy learning about healthy and joyous living while working from your home and earn a good income doing something you love!
No publishing experience is necessary. You’ll work for yourself but not by yourself. We offer a complete training and support system that allows you to successfully publish your own magazine.
• Meaningful New Career • Low Initial Investment • Proven Business System • Home-Based Business • Exceptional Franchise Support & Training
For more information, visit our website NaturalAwakeningsMag.com/mymagazine or call 239-530-1377
Natural Awakenings is now expanding into new markets across the U.S. Contact us about starting a magazine in a community of your choice or acquiring an existing publication for sale highlighted in red below. Natural Awakenings publishes in over 95 markets across the U.S. and Puerto Rico. • • • • • • • • • •
Huntsville, AL Mobile/Baldwin, AL* Phoenix, AZ* Tucson, AZ East Bay Area, CA San Diego, CA Denver/Boulder, CO Fairfield County, CT Hartford, CT New Haven/ Middlesex, CT • Washington, DC • Daytona/Volusia/ Flagler, FL • NW FL Emerald Coast • Ft. Lauderdale, FL • Jacksonville/ St. Augustine, FL • Melbourne/Vero, FL • Miami & the Florida Keys • Naples/Ft. Myers, FL • North Central FL* • Orlando, FL • Palm Beach, FL • Peace River, FL • Sarasota, FL • Tampa/St. Pete., FL • FL’s Treasure Coast • Atlanta, GA • Hawaiian Islands • Chicago, IL • Chicago Western Suburbs, IL • Indianapolis, IN • Baton Rouge, LA • Lafayette, LA • New Orleans, LA • Portland, ME • Boston, MA • Ann Arbor, MI • East Michigan • Wayne County, MI* • Western MI* • Minneapolis/ St. Paul, MN • Charlotte, NC* • Lake Norman, NC* • Triangle, NC • Central, NJ • Hudson County, NJ • Mercer County, NJ
• Monmouth/ Ocean, NJ • North NJ • North Central NJ • South NJ • Santa Fe/Abq., NM • Las Vegas, NV • Albany, NY • Buffalo, NY • Central NY • Long Island, NY • Lower Hudson Valley West, NY • Manhattan, NY* • Queens, NY • Rochester, NY • Westchester/ Putnam Co’s., NY • Central OH • Cincinnati, OH* • Toledo, OH • Oklahoma City, OK • Portland, OR* • Bucks/Montgomery Counties, PA • Harrisburg/York, PA • Lancaster, PA • Lehigh Valley, PA • Pocono, PA/ Warren Co., NJ • Scranton/ Wilkes-Barre, PA • Rhode Island • Charleston, SC* • Columbia, SC • Grand Strand, SC* • Greenville, SC • Chattanooga, TN • Knoxville, TN* • Memphis, TN • Austin, TX • Dallas Metroplex, TX • Dallas/FW Metro N • Houston, TX • San Antonio, TX* • SE Texas • Richmond, VA • VA’s Blue Ridge • Seattle, WA • Madison, WI • Milwaukee, WI • Puerto Rico
* Existing magazines for sale
Natural Awakenings recently won the prestigious FBR50 Franchise Satisfaction Award from Franchise Business eNaturalAwakenings.com October 2015 Review. To learn more, visit FranchiseBusinessReview.com 73
calendarofevents Magazine calendar events must be received by October 12 (for October issue) and adhere to our guidelines. All calendar submissions must be entered online at eNaturalAwakenings.com: click on “submit calendar” at the very top of the page. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1 Keeping Your Kids Healthy – 10-11:30am. With Sandra Pinto and Lauren Wolfe. Learn about essential oils to support health and wellness. Discuss the top 5 oils and ways to use them. Samples provided. RSVP required. Free. The Offices of Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ste #6, Ridgefield. 203-438-4848. DrRoseannInfo@att.net. TGI Information Session for Health Professionals – 3:30-6pm. St. Francis Hospital, 114 Woodland St (Main Entrance Rotunda) Hartford. 203-874-4252. Info@Learn.edu Learn.edu/Events. A Presence Circle – 7-9pm. With Robin Spiegel and Stacey Sherman. Evening of meditation, sound, frequencies and exploration to experience peace, self-love, compassion and connection. Registration required. $33. Lotus Wellness Center, 46 Pemberwick Rd, Greenwich. 203-531-4784. Info@ LotusWellnessCtr.com.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2 Reiki 1st Degree workshop – 10am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki master (19 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. 2 manuals and certificate. $125. Angelic Healing Center for Reiki, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com. Shamanic Drum Circle – 7:30-10:30pm. Join us to connect with energy, spirit and Mother Earth through sacred Shamanic drumming, rattling and Shamanic healing. All levels welcome, no experience necessary. $20. Hunter Healing Hands, 215 Harbor Ave, Bridgeport. 203-916-8381. HunterHealingHands@ hotmail.com. HunterHealingHands.com.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3 Aura Photography – 11am-6pm. Crystal Visions welcomes Jan and Jay from Aura Photo Unlimited. They will sit with you and explain the results of your Aura Photo Analysis. Cost varies. Crystal Visions, 1 Rte 37 East, Ste 2, Sherman. 860-210-9897. Info@ CrystalVisionsCT.com. CrystalVisionsCT.com. Spiritual Psychic and Healing Fair – Noon-5pm. Receive a personal reading and/or healing with our gifted and caring intuitives and healers. Many modalities. Sessions approx. 20 minutes. Reiki healing available. New: Workshop for Psychic/ Mediumship development. $45+/readings. $25/healings. $25/workshop. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. AlbertsonChurch@gmail.org. AlbertsonChurch.org.
Terraloka Massage & Wellness Studio, 5 Kent Green Blvd, Kent. 203-916-8381. HunterHealingHands@ hotmail.com. HunterHealingHands.com. The Art of Flower Essence Therapy – 6-8:30pm. Six-week workshop offering an in depth explanation of Dr. Bach’s 38 original flower remedies. Class is limited in size to insure intimacy and individual attention. $80/per class. Twin Star Herbal Education & Apothecary, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 203-313-7883. TwinStarHerbs@gmail.com. TwinStarHerbal.com. Introduction to the Workings of the Sacred Soul – 6:30-8:30pm. With Robin Mueller. Learn to embrace your Sacred Soul. Expand the highest parts of the mental and emotional self, into thoughts and feelings of peace, happiness and comfort. Crystal Visions, 1 Rte 37 East, Sherman. 860-210-9897. Info@ CrystalVisionsCT.com. CrystalVisionsCT.com.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4 Westchester Heart Walk – 9am. The Heart Walk is the American Heart Association’s groundbreaking movement to get America walking. The Heart Walk calls for all Americans and their employers to create a culture of physical activity and wellness so that we may all live longer, heart healthy lives. Free. Kensico Dam, 1 Bronx River Pkwy, Valhalla, NY. 914-6403274. Jennifer.Gelick@Heart.org. The 2015 Blessing of the Animals – 11am-1pm. With Reverend Priscilla Keresey. Includes, blessing, reiki, presentation by the international fund for animal welfare, art showing by Alison Nicholls, fellowship and cruelty-free food. Animals must be in a carrier or on leash. Free. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. Info@AlbertsonChurch.org. AlbertsonChurch.org. Yoga for Abundance – 2-3:30pm. 4 weeks. With Param Simran, Gina Cassetta, Kundalini yoga and meditation instructor. Learn Techniques to shift your energy and open up to receive abundance in your life. Yoga can be modified if needed. Bring an open mind, notebook, towel or blanket and water. $30/1-class, $100/4-classes. 203-270-1119. SOUND, 31 Hawleyville Rd, Newtown. CassettaWoman@hotmail.com. SoundCenterArts.com. Reiki I – 5-8pm. 10/4, 10/11, 10/18. With Carla. Come learn this easy, gentle energy healing modality from an experienced and fun intuitive healer. RSVP. $150/all 3 sessions. Sticks & Stones Farm, 197 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown. 203-364-6262.
Explore Crystals: An In-Depth Introduction – 3-5pm. Workshop explores a variety of crystals from the metaphsyical and scientific aspects, including how to cleanse them, charge them, choose them and work with them. Receive a healing crystal. $40.
74
Fairfield County Edition
natural awakenings
markyourcalendar Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Programs
Learn to “Live in this moment, not yesterday’s, not tomorrow’s” Cultivate non-judgmental present moment awareness to reduce stress, pain and illness. New classes beginning in October in Fairfield and Danbury, CT Fairfield: FREE Intro Session, Thursday, October 8, 8 weekly classes begin October 15, 6:30-9pm. Danbury: FREE Intro Session, Monday, October 5, 8 weekly classes begin October 12, 6:30-9pm. 8-week program $350, Early Bird paid at Introduction, $395 after. To register: Fairfield: FairfieldMBSRIntroAndProgram. eventbrite.com Danbury: DanburyMBSRIntroAndProgram. eventbrite.com For more info: Carol.Shear@gmail.com, call 203-452-9614 or Sheila@insynchronyllc.com, call 203-216-6243
MONDAY, OCTOBER 5 Free Intro Session - Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Program – 6:30-9pm. 8-week program. Cultivate non-judgmental present moment awareness to reduce stress, pain and illness. Address given upon registration. Danbury. Carol, 203-452-9614, Carol.Shear@gmail.com or Sheila, 203-216-6243, Sheila@InsynchronyLLC.com. DanburyMBSRIntroAndProgram.eventbrite.com.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6 TLC Healing Circle Open to All – 7-9pm. Curious about energy healing? Looking for renewed health and well-being? All new to energy healing and practitioners of all modalities and levels are welcome. Healing meditation and an opportunity to receive and/or give energy work. $20. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8 Holistic Chamber of Commerce: Round Table – 6:30-8:30pm. Discussions on how to do webinar, virtual sessions and online scheduling at TGI. Free. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. 203-874-4252. Info@Learn.edu. Learn.edu/Events.
Free Intro Session - Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Program – 6:30-9pm. 8-week program. Cultivate non-judgmental present moment awareness to reduce stress, pain and illness. Address given upon registration. Fairfield. Carol, 203-452-9614, Carol.Shear@gmail.com or Sheila, 203-216-6243, Sheila@Insynchronyllc.com. FairfieldMBSRIntroAndProgram.eventbrite.com. Apple Brandy Cordial & Tipsy Apple Sauce Workshop – 7-9pm. 10/8 & 11/19. Series of handson medicinal/historical workshops. This herbalist daughter/historian mother duo are excited to share their knowledge and experience. Create 2 medicinal remedies. $42 (2-night class), registration required. Acquiescence Farmhouse, 785 Main St North, Woodbury. 860-354-4881. GroundedHolisticWellness@ yahoo.com. GroundedHolisticWellness.com. Creating Energetic Fields For Self, Space and Specific Purposes – 7-9pm. With Jessica Hunter. Crystal Grids are healing and energetic tools that can be used for protection, cleansing, transformation, intentions, manifestation and more. Explore how they work and create your own. $40. Mother Earth Gallery, 449 Danbury Rd, New Milford. 203775-6272. MotherEarthBrookfield@gmail.com. MotherEarthCrystals.com. Vibrational Healing Workshop – 7-9pm. With Robin Spiegel and DeeAnn Macomson. Strengthen your mind-body connection, reduce stress and break through old patterns with sound healing, drumming, crystal bowls, toning, essential oils and movement. Registration required. $35. Lotus Wellness Center, 46 Pemberwick Rd, Greenwich. 203-531-4784. Info@LotusWellnessCtr.com.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9 TLC Tarot Fun & Fabulous Friday – 10am-noon or 7-9pm. What’s in the cards for you? Find out during this playful event designed for everyone from novices to long-time tarot friends. Receive a reading from Beth Leas. $40. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@TLCTarot.com. TLCTarot.com.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10 Auricular (Ear) Acupuncture Clinic – 10:30am1pm. 2nd Saturday. With Patricia Singer, MS, LAc. Experience immediate and powerful effects with acupuncture ear points designed to alleviate tension, relax mind and body. Once needles are applied, sit, relax, breath, meditate. $40. Total Life Care Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-226-8897. Patricia@ PatSinger.com. PatSinger.com. Speaking of Yoga – 1:30-4:30pm. With Sarah Bell. Includes asana practice, reading aloud, speaking to the whole room while filling the space, and learning tools to keep the voice healthy. Bring yoga mat. $35/ members, $45/non-members in advance; $45/$55 at door. The Yoga Studio, Club Fit, 584 North State Rd, Briarcliff Manor, NY. 914-709-4150. YogaDad@ optonline.net. YTAYoga.com. Flower Essences 101 – 2-3pm. With Ehris Urban. Create your own personalized Flower Essence based on your challenges/needs/goals. Flower essences are extractions prepared from flowering plants, used therapeutically. Registration required. Free. Woodbury Public Library, Woodbury. 203-9420774. GroundedHolisticWellness@yahoo.com. GroundedHolisticWellness.com.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11 Mediumship; Unlocking the Door to the Spirit World – 1-4pm. With Pamela Marie Edmunds. Interactive class focuses on enhancing Mediumship skills. Learn the types of evidence necessary to receive an evidential message from a communicator in the spirit world. $40. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. Info@AlbertsonChurch.og. AlbertsonChurch.org. Book Talk: Health Attitude – 5:30-7:30pm. With John Patrick, author. Discussion of Patrick’s recently released book Health Attitude, which explores the power of information technology to transform delivery of health care services in the United States. $30. The Ridgefield Playhouse, 80 East Ridge Rd, Ridgefield. 203-438-5795. MarketingAsst@ RidgefieldPlayhouse.org. RidgefieldPlayhouse.org/ Event/John-Patrick-Health-Attitude.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 12 Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Program – 6:30-9pm. 8-week program. Cultivate non-judgmental present moment awareness to reduce stress, pain and illness. Address given upon registration. Danbury. $350/early bird if paid at introduction. $395/after. Carol, 203-452-9614, Carol.Shear@gmail.com or Sheila, 203-216-6243, Sheila@InsynchronyLLC.com. DanburyMBSR IntroAndProgram.eventbrite.com.
Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Program – 6:30-9pm. 8-week program. Cultivate non-judgmental present moment awareness to reduce stress, pain and illness. Address given upon registration. Fairfield. $350/early bird if paid at introduction. $395/after. Carol, 203-452-9614, Carol.Shear@gmail.com or Sheila, 203-216-6243, Sheila@InsynchronyLLC.com. FairfieldMBSR IntroAndProgram.eventbrite.com.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16 Halloween Paranormal Party – 6:30-9pm. Night of cider, fun and discussion about all things Paranormal. Particularly Angels and proof of their existence and much more. Costumes are optional. Crystal Visions, 1 Rte 37 East, Ste 2, Sherman. 860-210-9897. Info@ CrystalVisionsCT.com. CrystalVisionsCT.com.
markyourcalendar Workshop for Women “Tired of Going at it Alone” Saturday, October 17 • 10am-6pm
Experience the power of being in a group that encourages you to express yourself fully. Feel the support of other women; embody authenticity, intimacy and integrity. $135; $120/registered 10 days prior.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13 Auricular (Ear) Acupuncture Clinic and NYR Organic Health and Beauty Products – 5-6:30pm. With Patricia Singer MS LAc and Sherrylee Dickinson. Experience Auricular Acupuncture experience, points designed to relax mind and body. Try NYR organic age-defying products. Free. 544 Riverside Ave, Westport. Patricia@PatSinger.com. S o u l B y r d @ y a h o o . c o m . P a t S i n g e r. c o m . US. NYROrganic.com/shop/Sherrylee. The Graduate Institute Information Sessions – 6-7:30pm. Free. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. 203-874-4252. Info@Learn.edu. Learn.edu/Events. Free Workshop on Positive Psychology – 7:30. Free. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. 203-874-4252. Info@Learn.edu. Learn.edu/Events.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14 A Presence Circle – 7-9pm. With Robin Spiegel and Stacey Sherman. Evening of meditation, sound, frequencies and exploration to experience peace, self-love, compassion and connection. Registration required. $33. Lotus Wellness Center, 46 Pemberwick Rd, Greenwich. 203-531-4784. Info@LotusWellnessCtr.com.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15 Motivating the Unmotivated Child – 10-11:15am. With Kristie Liotta, MA. How can we flame the fire of motivation in the child that doesn’t seem to care about rewards and punishments? Alternative approaches to inspiring internal motivation. Free. The Offices of Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-438-4848. DrRoseannInfo@att.net. DrRoseann.com.
Contact and Register:
Evelyn • 917-685-7591 • EvelynCarayannis@aol.com
Karin • 917-549-868 • Karin@KarinKnoblich.com In Greenwich, Connecticut
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17 4th Annual Stamford Hospital Health Wellness & Sports Expo 2015 – 10/17: 9am-4pm. 10/18: 11am4pm. Complimentary health screenings, children’s activities, author and athlete appearances plus the latest information, products, services and demos from over 90 exhibitors and much more. Free. Chelsea Piers Connecticut, 1 Blachley Rd, Stamford. 203531-3047. Tmksande@aol.com. HWS-Expos.com. The Art and Alchemy of Aromatherapy Training: Level 1A – 10am-5pm. Learn practical uses for daily living, therapeutic methods, blending techniques, vibrational healing, receiving wisdom from your chakras and auric field. 10/24: level 1B. Registration required. $145/each level. Materials included. Lotus Wellness Center, 46 Pemberwick Rd, Greenwich. 203-531-4784. Info@LotusWellnessCtr.com. Explore Crystals: An In Depth Introduction – 11am-1pm. With Jessica Hunter Workshop. Workshop explores a variety of crystals from the metaphsyical and scientific aspects, including how to cleanse them, charge them, choose them and work with them. Receive a healing crystal. $40. Bramasole Fitness & Wellness, 57 Slab Meadow Rd, Morris. 860-567-0219. Info@BramasoleWellness.com. BramasoleWellness.com. HunterHealingHands.com. Reiki 1 Certification – Noon-2pm. Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. This certification is facilitated by Reiki Master John Robinson. Crystal Visions, 1 Rte 37 East, Sherman. 860-210-9897. Info@ CrystalVisionsCT.com. CrystalVisionsCT.com.
eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
75
calendarofevents Adult Indigos in the New Age Class 1 – 3-5pm. This class is for identifying Adult Indigo’s and what this entails, including their gifts for bringing in the New Age as the teachers of the teachers. Crystal Visions, 1 Rte 37 East, Sherman. 860-210-9897. Info@ CrystalVisionsCT.com. CrystalVisionsCT.com.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18 New Age & Craft Expo – 10am-5pm. Come experience a day of creative and spiritual enlightenment. Intuitive readers, spiritual vendors, health, wellness, reiki, yoga, handcrafted jewelry, unique crafts, Tibetan singing bowls, crystals. Plus 3 rooms of dynamic speakers and meditations, and more. $5. Crowne Plaza Hotel, Strongtown Rd, Rt 188, Southbury. 203-733-6560. CryOurs87@yahoo.com. Fundraiser Workshop: From Codependence to Spiritual Freedom – 1-3pm. With Anne Carbone, M.A. Come learn the tools needed to let go of codependence and restore yourself to the happy, healthy, productive divine being that you truly are. $35 donation. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. Info@ AlbertsonChurch.og. AlbertsonChurch.org. Reiki 1 Class for Teens – 1:30-5:30pm. With Beth Leas. For 12-18 year olds who have an interest in learning Reiki. (No parents). Learn self-healing techniques, providing a tool to deal with daily stress. Pre-requisite: a parent attuned to Reiki 1 or higher. $150. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-8569566. Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 19
Shamanic Journey – 7-9pm. Receive an individual healing to connect with star medicine, energy and spirit. $40. Hunter Healing Hands, 215 Harbor Ave, Bridgeport. 203-916-8381. HunterHealingHands@ hotmail.com. HunterHealingHands.com. Spiced Pumpkin Rum Cider Workshop – 7-9pm. Create a medicinal run concoction. Rum was king of the colonies before the Revolutionary War. 12 million gallons of rum were consumed annually by the early American colonists. $20. Acquiescence Farmhouse, 785 Main St North, Woodbury. 860-354-4881. ColonialGoodWife@gmail.com. GroundedHolisticWellness@ yahoo.com. GroundedHolisticWellness.com.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23 TLC Healing Circle Open to All – 10am-noon. Looking for renewed health and wellbeing? All new to energy healing and practitioners of all modalities and levels are welcome. Healing meditation and an opportunity to receive and/or give energy work. $20. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com. The Art and Alchemy of Aromatherapy Training: Level 1A – 10am-5pm. Learn practical uses for daily living, therapeutic methods, blending techniques, vibrational healing, receiving wisdom from your chakras and auric field. 10/17: level 1A. Registration required. $145/each level. Materials included. Lotus Wellness Center, 46 Pemberwick Rd, Greenwich. 203-531-4784. Info@LotusWellnessCtr.com. Flower Essences for Pets – 2-3pm. With Ehris Urban. Create a personalized Flower Essence for your pet based on her/his challenges/needs/goals. Flower essences are extractions prepared from flowering plants, used therapeutically. Registration required. Free. Woodbury Public Library, Main St, Woodbury. 203-263-3502. GroundedHolisticWellness@yahoo. com. GroundedHolisticWellness.com.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 20
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25
Guided Healing Meditation – 7:30-8:30pm. With Carla. Using quartz crystal chakra healing bowls with guidance, love and help from the Angels. RSVP. $15/suggested donation. Sticks & Stones Farm, 197 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown. 203-364-6262.
Fairfield Heart Walk – 8:30am. The American Heart Association’s groundbreaking movement to get America walking. The Heart Walk calls for all Americans and their employers to create a culture of physical activity and wellness so that we may all live longer, heart healthy lives. Free. Sherwood Island, 1 Sherwood Island Rd, Westport. 914-640-3262. Kevin.Byrne@Heart.org.
Questions & Answers about Reiki – 7-9:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher. 7-8:30pm; talk about Reiki with Q&A for non-Reiki. 8:159:30pm: talk and Q&A for Reiki-certified Practitioners to inquire about advanced training. Latest info on Western Style. Mini-Reiki sessions included. $5 or $10. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@ snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22 The Graduate Institute Information Sessions – 5-6:30pm. Free. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. 203-874-4252. Info@Learn.edu. Learn.edu/Events. Melody Star Yod Healing Array: A Workshop to Experience Melody Crystal Healing & the Sacred
76
Fairfield County Edition
Shamanic Healing Retreat for Gratitude, Transformation & Abundance With Shamanic Teachers, Deana Paqua & Jessica Hunter Saturday, November 14 • 10am-5pm A full day Shamanic retreat to transform and release blockages to well being in health, relationships, work, finance and more. Experience shamanic journey work, ceremony and healing for clearing fear, lack and discouragement. Learn sacred tools and practical techniques. Redding Center for Meditation 9 Picketts Ridge Rd • West Redding Exchange: $175 Call Deana Paqua at 203-994-5045, or e-mail Deana.Paqua@gmail.com to register
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24
Monday Meditation for Teens – 4-5pm. Fun meditation series of 3-classes for teens will help them develop a valuable life skill. Learn different techniques to customize a daily practice that can be done in 10 minutes a day. $50/series of 3. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21
markyourcalendar
TLC Healing & Psychic Sunday – 11am-4pm. Popular and fun event features a day of insight, clarity, peace and healing brought to you by the professionals at TLC Center. Free admission, free mini-workshops, 20-minute healing sessions and readings $20/20 min. Plenty of parking. Free. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-8569566. Beth@BethLeas.com. TLCCenter.com. Talking with God: A Spiritual Writing Workshop – 1-3pm. With Rob H. Geyer. Is it one of your greatest desires to feel directly connected to god? Are you yearning for a deeper relationship? If you answered yes, please join us. $25. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. Info@AlbertsonChurch.og. AlbertsonChurch.org.
natural awakenings
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 27 Free Essential Oils Class – 7-8:30pm. With Carla. Using EO’s for health and healing physical, mental, emotional, spiritual planes of existence: detoxified lifestyle. Sticks & Stones Farm, 197 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown. 203-364-6262. Rewiring the Brain: What is Neurofeedback? – 7-8:30pm. With Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge. Come learn how a QEEG (brain mapping) works, what Neurofeedback therapy is like, and how it could benefit you or your child. Free. The Offices of Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-438-4848. DrRoseannInfo@ att.net. DrRoseann.com.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28 Full Moon Meditation – 7-8:30pm. With Bet Leas. The Full Moon is a time of celebration. Guided meditation by the light of the full moon. Discover inner peace and harmony, as we connect with the rhythm of the universe. Free. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. ProMindful.org. ‘Spirited’ Book Club Gathering at the 1770 Acquiescence Farmhouse – 7-10pm. With Velya Jancz-Urban, author. Tour the primary setting of her novel, Acquiescence. Complimentary wine tasting offered by Premier Wine & Spirits of Southbury. Registration required: Free. The Acquiescence Farmhouse, 785 Main St North, Woodbury. 860-354-4881. ColonialGoodWife@gmail. com. AcquiescenceTheBook.com.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29 Crystal Skull Healing and Meditation – 6:308:30pm. With Deana Paqua and Keith Donlay. Fun evening of connecting with the Crystal Skulls just in time for Halloween. Crystal skulls have a long history of lore and fascination. Please RSVP. $35. Mother Earth Gallery, 449 Danbury Rd, New Milford. 203-775-6272. MotherEarth
Brookfield@gmail.com. MotherEarthCrystals.com. Flower Essences 101 – 7-8pm. With Ehris Urban. Create your own personalized Flower Essence based on your challenges/needs/goals. Flower essences are extractions prepared from flowering plants, used therapeutically. Registration required. $10. Brookfield Public Library, Whisconier Rd, Brookfield. 203-942-0774. GroundedHolisticWellness@yahoo. com. GroundedHolisticWellness.com. A Presence Circle – 7-9pm. With Robin Spiegel and Stacey Sherman. Evening of meditation, sound, frequencies and exploration to experience peace, self-love, compassion and connection. Registration required. $33. Lotus Wellness Center, 46 Pemberwick Rd, Greenwich. 203-531-4784. Info@LotusWellnessCtr.com. Signs from the Spirits: Learn to Recognize & Communicate with your Spirit Guides – 7-9pm. Explore experiencing your Spirit Guides, the differences between them, the ways they communicate, and how to recognize signs from your guides to assist on your journey. $40. Hunter Healing Hands, 215 Harbor Ave, Bridgeport. 203-916-8381. HunterHealingHands @hotmail.com. HunterHealingHands.com.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31 NYC Mindful Walk to Feed the Hungry. – 9:30am-noon. Morning of peaceful and mindful walk for expression of compassion and supporting the hungry globally. Free. Riverside Park, NYC, 79th St, New York, NY. 213-618-6961. AndrewYupeng@ gmail.com. Tiny.cc/NYCwalk. Woodland Halloween – 10am-1pm. Bake bread, make apple cider, see a charming puppet show and take an enchanted fairy tale trail walk. Organic soup and bread will be served. Non-scary costumes are optional. $10/per family, suggested donation. Westbrook Nature School, 7 Long Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-664-1554. Info@WestbrookNatureSchool. org. WestbrookNatureSchool.org. Reiki Second Degree Workshop – 10am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher (19 years). Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. 2 powerful energy connections from my short Japanese/Usa Linage. Two manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com. TGI Information Sessions: Call-in – 10:3011:30am. The Graduate Institute, Call-in number: 712-432-1690, access code #583832. Info@Learn. edu Learn.edu/Events.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1 Inside Out: A Creative Adventure Women’s Half Day Retreat – 1-5pm. With Beth Leas. Learn ways to tap into your creativity, shift your energy and open to new possibilities. Meditation, reflective writing, energy healing, creative play, a scavenger hunt and much more. $111. Redding Meditation Center, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4 Women’s Reflective Writing Series – 9:30-11am. With Beth Leas. This provocative and playful 4-session series, using the process of inquiry, is designed to reawaken your sense of wonder about yourself, your relationships and your life. $160. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@ BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.
ongoingevents daily Movie Viewing: A Chorus in Miracles – Showtimes: 10/21-23: 7pm, 10/24: 3pm & 7pm, 10/25: 3pm. Celebration of the 50 year anniversary of A Course in Miracles, James Twyman’s feature documentary film has been insightfully created as an homage to the most life-changing spiritual text of the 20th century. $10. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@ UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.
sunday Angelic Reiki Meditation with Essential Oils – 8-9am. Receive short, hands-on Angelic Reiki, experience powerful techniques to reduce stress and relax. $10. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave (in the back, downstairs), Norwalk. Preregister: 203-852-1150. Gentle Yoga Classes – 9:30-10:45am. Work on alignment, flexibility and strength in a way that is correct and nurturing for your body. All abilities welcome. Please bring your own yoga mat. $5 donation. Hindu Cultural Center (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. HCC.Yoga.Wendy@gmail. com. HinduCulturalCenter.org/Programs.html. New Beginnings in Community Sunday Service – 10am. Join this group of spiritually-minded people embracing and honoring all world religions, belief systems, cultures and traditions. We come together to share thoughts, experiences and wisdom in a supportive, community environment. Free. Mystics By The Sea, 394 New Haven Ave, Milford. 203-9806272. NewBeginningsInCommunity.Weebly.com. Family Program (Kids and Teens) – 1011:30am. First and third Sunday. Introducing kids to meditation, metta (loving-kindness affirmations), yoga, art practice, a discussion of mindfulness in everyday life, generosity, compassion, letting go of negative mind states and other basic Parents can meditate in the main building. Contact Matt Keeler at MmKeeler@gmail.com. ReddingMeditation.org. Mahasati Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am. Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faiths develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org. Celebration Service – 10:30am-noon. With Rev. Shawn Moninger Inspiring message supports your spiritual unfoldment with thought provoking, soul healing topics and uplifting music. By donation. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@UnityCenterNorwalk. org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org. Albertson Church Service – 11am-12:30pm. Includes an inspirational talk from caring ministers, guided meditation, time to receive healing energy and spirit messages from those we continue to love. Free. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-637-4615.
Practicing Meditation – 2-4pm. Introduction to analytical meditation based on the teachings of Stages of the Path (Lamrim) and Guide to the Bodhisattva’s Way of Life. Sessions include a brief mindfulness meditation, talk, guided meditation on the topic and an interactive discussion. 6-week class. Free, by donation. DNKL, 30 Putnam Park Rd, Redding. 203-664-1574. Info@DNKLDharma.org. DNKLDharma.org/node/22.
monday Kids in Harmoni Friendship Club – 9-11am. For toddlers (1 & 2 year olds). Nurturing kindness, caring and compassion of self and others. $30. 103 North St, Trumbull. 203-377-9855. KGrich@ charter.net. HarmoniTherapy.com. Core Yoga – 9:30-10:30am. A class designed to strengthen your core and deepen your practice. With emphasis on proper alignment this class moves slowly through basic postures in challenging ways. Great for beginners or experienced yogis looking to build strength and reduce stress. $17/ drop-in, $150/10-class card. The Graceful Planet, 7 Berkshire Rd, Sandy Hook. 203-426-8215. Kat@ GracefulPlanet.com. GracefulPlanet.com. Monday Morning Meditation – 11:30am-12:30pm. With Beth Leas. Practical approach supports you as you develop a solid life skill. Whether you’ve never meditated or you’re a sage meditator - this class is for you. Explore different meditation techniques each week. $30. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com. Mahasati Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faiths develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org. Transformative Meditation Class – 7-8:30pm. 3-session series will support you in learning easy techniques to calm your mind and increase your focus, find inner peace and improve your health. All classes include guided meditations. $90. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com. Eckhart Tolle Study Group: A New Earth - Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose – 7-9pm. Take part in this open hearted, supportive group as we dismantle EGO (that anxious, negative, limiting part of your mind) and learn to locate and experience your True Self. Free or by donation. 154 Head of Meadow Rd, Newtown. 203-809-4409. VeronicaMarr4@ gmail.com. NewtownLove.org. Guided Meditation at Sabita Holistic Center –7:30-8:30pm. Second Monday. Give yourself the gift of meditation at Sabita Holistic Center. Internationally known Dr. Levy has worked for over the past 35 years in stress reduction, deep relaxation and meditation. Free. Sabita Holistic Center, 3519 Post Rd, Southport. 203-254-2633. Monday Meditation for Everyone – 7:30-9pm. This is Meditation Guided Imagery for relaxation and stress reduction. It also helps you move forward on your spiritual path. No experience necessary. $20. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plain St, Bethel. 203-570-3868.
eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
77
ongoingevents Reiki Share – 7:30-9:30pm. Fourth Monday. With JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT. Practice Reiki in a small group setting. Share experiences and help each other develop in a safe, fun environment while providing a wonderful, relaxing, rejuvenating experience. $20. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointReiki.com.
tuesday TLC Monthly Networking Breakfast – 8:3010am. First Tuesday. Looking for a community of healthy living professionals? At TLC Center, we understand the power of networking. Relaxed supportive group of professionals. Grab a friend, your biz cards and join us for a fun morning of connecting. Free. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. TLCCenter.com. Yoga Therapeutics – 9-10:15am. With Dr. Kathy Sward. Designed for those with chronic pain, health conditions, prevention and other health concerns. Traditional poses are expertly modified to allow the mind to calm, joints to align and muscles lengthen and strengthen. $15. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-207-1613. Dr.KathySward@gmail. com. DrKathySward.com. Kids in Harmoni Friendship Club – 9-11:30am. For Preschoolers (3-5 year olds). Nurturing kindness, caring and compassion for self and others. $30. 103 North St, Trumbull. 203-377-9855. KGrich@charter.net. HarmoniTherapy.com. Mommy and Me Yoga: Tots/Toddlers – 1010:45am. Crawling to 3 years. Partner with your little one for animated yoga poses, games, music and breathing exercises that help to strengthen coordination and build body awareness. $22/ class. Family Tree Yoga, 980 Hope St, Stamford. 203-890-9642. KimberlyMotiil@gmail.com. FamilyTreeYoga.net. TLC Master Success Group for Entrepreneurs – 10:30am-12:30pm. With Beth Leas. Love what you do and would like to do more of it? Whether you’re brand new to the business of doing what you love or are already established and ready to grow, please join us. $295. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com. Mommy and Me Yoga: Pre-Crawlers – 11:15amnoon. 8 weeks. Moms will restore and rejuvenate through stretching and strengthening poses. Babies will enjoy yoga poses to aid in digestion and sleep. Bond with your baby and connect with other moms. $22/class. Family Tree Yoga, 980 Hope St, Stamford. 203-890-9642. KimberlyMotiil@gmail.com. FamilyTreeYoga.net. Toastmasters – Noon. Interested in public speaking? Trumbull Toastmasters is a chartered club of Toastmasters International dedicated to improving members’ communication and leadership skills. Meets alternate Tuesdays. Body Smart, Crescent Village, 115 Main St, Unit 11, Monroe. 203-459-6773. Franny. Hannigan@charter.com. ToastMastersClubs.org.
78
Fairfield County Edition
Mahasati Insight Meditation – 12:30-2pm. Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faiths develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org. BodySmart – 6:15-7:30pm. Semi-private sessions for 2-4 participants. Complete core/body conditioning exercises and stretching utilizing a 9-foot floor to ceiling X-Pole. $45/class-discount with 6+ classes (pre-reg required). BodySmart, 115 Main St, Unit 11, Monroe. Call Lisa for details, additional schedule information and to register: 203-209-7359. Meditating Holistically – 6:30-8pm. With Urgyan Zangpo, a Western Buddhist lama sharing a rich practice of traditional meditation guidance directed toward holistic integration. Group meditation and discussion, devoted to our mutual innermost truths. $15. Location: ah Yoga, 168 New Milford Tpke (Rt 202), New Preston. 860-868-6707 or Danbury Area Vajrayana Buddhist Meditation on Meetup.com. Angelic Healing Group – 7-9pm. First Tuesday. Experience the healing energy of the Angelic Realm. Your energy body will be infused with the love and light of the Divine through meditation and hands-on touch. $20. Stevens Memorial Church, 8 Shady Ln, South Salem, NY. 203-438-4893. Reiki Shares – 7:30-10:15pm. First and third Tuesdays. Gigi Benanti Usui/Karuna Reiki Master/ Teacher. For Reiki practitioners only. Exchange ongoing since 1996. Instructions included. $20. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. Pre-register: 203-852-1150.
wednesday Pranotthan Yoga Classes – 9-10:15am. Classes offerered Tuesday-Saturday. Kripalu-influenced, classic hatha yoga for all levels and styles. Personal inquiry and cultivating individual experience is emphasized. $17/drop in, $75/5-class pass, $130/10-class pass. Transformation For Life Wellness Center, 6 Walnut St, Danbury. 203-617-8228. Jill.Myruski@gmail. com. TFLWellness.com. Core Yoga – 9:30-10:30am. A class designed to strengthen your core and deepen your practice. With emphasis on proper alignment this class moves slowly through basic postures in challenging ways. Great for beginners or experienced yogis looking to build strength and reduce stress. $17/ drop-in, $150/10-class card. The Graceful Planet, 7 Berkshire Rd, Sandy Hook. 203-426-8215. Kat@ GracefulPlanet.com. GracefulPlanet.com. Meditation – 7-8pm. Experience bliss, peace, joy and deep healing. Not your traditional silent or guided meditation class. It is meant to transform you, healing the chakras through the release of long-held negative thoughts and beliefs, stagnant emotions, and discordant vibrations. By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St (Rt 25), Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail. com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com. Mahasati Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faith s develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.
natural awakenings
Stamford Positive Living Forum – 7-8:30pm. 2nd Wednesday. Meetings feature inspirational speakers who aim to introduce the audience to happiness boosters and simple techniques which can lead to emotional and physical wellbeing, happiness, and an overall sense of positivity. Free. Innovation Center of Stamford, Old Town Hall, 175 Atlantic St, Stamford. 203-962-1062. Donna.M.Vella@ gmail.com. HappinessClub.com. Journey Group – 7-9pm. First Wednesday. With Cindy Miller, intuitive. If you are looking to get unstuck, learn more about self empowerment, becoming a healing facilitator, than this is the group for you. $20. Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West St, Newtown. Call: 203-426-9448. SacredGrounds.bz. TrinityProduction.org. Using Smart Body (Kinesiology) for Everyday – 7-9pm. Learn how to sense the energy of foods, supplements, books, places and more. Sense what you cannot see and therefore make better choices. Learn how to change energy. Presentation and discussion. $20. Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West St, Newtown. 203-377-6162. Bruce.Zboray@ yahoo.com. TrinityProduction.org. Holistic Moms Network Fairfield County, CT Chapter – 7:30pm. Second Wednesday. Associates in Family Chiropractic & Natural Health Care, 156 East Ave, Norwalk. Home.Homewebs.com/ HMNFairfieldCtyCT. Gentle Yoga for Real Bodies – 7:30-8:45pm. With Gloria Owens, Kripalu yoga teacher. Everyone can benefit from a gentle, slow and conscious approach to yoga. Fun and relaxing class will build confidence and compassionate self-acceptance, while leaving you deeply nurtured. $19/drop-in or buy a discounted pass. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@YogaSpace-CT. com. YogaSpace-CT.com. Turning Point S.H.A.R.E. Divorce Group – 7:30-9:30pm. Third Wednesdays. Offering support, healing, advocacy, resources and education for women in the process of, or recently divorced. $20, $150/10-session card. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center, 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointShare.com.
thursday Kids in Harmoni Friendship Club – 9-11am. For Toddlers (1 & 2 year olds). Nurturing kindness, caring and compassion of self and others. $30. 103 North St, Trumbull. 203-377-9855. KGrich@charter. net. HarmoniTherapy.com. Pranotthan Yoga Classes – 9-10:15am. For all levels of fitness. Begin from where you are and move towards improvement. A simple, powerful way to support your healthy lifestyle. $17/drop in, $75/5-class pass, $130/10-class pass. Transformation For Life Wellness Center, 6 Walnut St, Danbury. 203-617-8228. Jill.Myruski@gmail.com. TransformationForLifeYoga.com. Tea and Meditation – 9:30-11am. Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faiths develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way. By donation. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org.
Thursday Morning Meditation for Moms – 9:3011am. Come and unwind with a Guided Meditative Journey geared to release stress and a healthful more positive understanding of self. $20. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plain St, Bethel. 203-570-3868. CHADD/ADHD Parent Support Group – 7-8:30pm. 3rd and 4th Thursdays. Monthly discussion on parenting child(ren) with an ADD/ADHD diagnosis. Form connections with other parents and gain skills and education to support your child(ren). Free. The Offices of Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203438-4848. DrRoseannInfo@att.net. DrRoseann.com. EFT Tapping Circle Meetup – 7-8:30pm. Second Thursday. Come learn about your energy body - every month Come join us to learn and practice a powerful self help tool using tapping on meridian accupressure points. No experience necessary. 203-247-1318. Robin@ RobinFriedman.net. EnergyToolsForDailyLiving.com. EFT Tapping Circle Meetup– 7-8:30pm. Fourth Thursday. Come learn about your energy body. Every month will be a different topic or exercise. No experience needed, all are welcome. $15. Location given with RSVP. 203-247-1318.Robin@ RobinFriedman.net. EnergyToolsForDailyLiving.com. Meditating Holistically – 7-8:30pm. With Urgyan Zangpo, a Western Buddhist lama sharing a rich practice of traditional meditation guidance directed toward holistic integration. Group meditation and discussion, devoted to our mutual innermost truths. $15. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-YOGA or Danbury Area Vajrayana Buddhist Meditation on Meetup.com. Practicing Prayers: Seven Limbs & Six Perfections – 7-8:45pm. Class designed especially for beginners and open to everyone. This class will introduce a meditative practice of Buddhist prayers using three of the most common prayers. 6-week class. Free, by donation only. DNKL, 30 Putnam Park Rd, Redding. 203-664-1574. Info@DNKLDharma.org. DNKLDharma.org/node/219. Reiki Healing Circle – 7-9pm. Second Thursday. All welcome. Non-Reiki & Reiki practitioners share and experience Reiki. See details on Unity website. Hosted by Gigi Benanti Reiki master/teacher. $20. Unity Center for Practical Spirituality, 3 Main St, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGiGiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com, UnityCenterNorwalk.org. Pre-Natal Yoga – 7:15-8:30pm. Other times available. $22/class. Family Tree Yoga, 980 Hope St, Stamford. 203-890-9642. KimberlyMotiil@gmail.com. FamilyTreeYoga.net.
friday Pranotthan Yoga Classes – 9-10:15am. For all levels of fitness. Begin from where you are and move towards improvement. A simple, powerful way to support your healthy lifestyle. $17/drop in, $75/5-class pass, $130/10-class pass. Transformation For Life Wellness Center, 6 Walnut St, Danbury. 203-617-8228. Jill.Myruski@gmail.com. TransformationForLifeYoga.com. Kids in Harmoni Friendship Club – 9-11:30am. For Preschoolers (3-5 year olds). Nurturing kindness, caring and compassion for self and others. $30. 103 North St, Trumbull. 203-377-9855. KGrich@charter.net. HarmoniTherapy.com. Reiki Share – 9:30-11:30am. First Friday. With JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT. Practice Reiki in a small group setting. Share experiences and help each other develop in a safe, fun environment while providing
a wonderful, relaxing, rejuvenating experience. $20. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointReiki.com. Free Mommy & Me Yoga – 10am. With Brooke de Weaver. We supply water and mats - just bring yourself and your kids. Free. Yogasmoga Townhouse, 68 Greenwich Ave, Greenwich. Student Massage Clinic – 11am-1pm. Relax and enjoy a full-body massage at the Danbury Campus public Student Massage Therapy Clinic. Wednesday evenings or Friday mornings available. $30/50 minutes. Ridley-Lowell Business & Technical Institute, 24 Shelter Rock Rd, Danbury. Call for appt: 203-748-0052. Teen Meditation – 5-6pm. This is an enjoyable approach to the understanding of self and how you fit into the world in which you can grow with confidence. Come and explore a guided meditative journey that helps to melt away stress and anxiety. For teens and up. $15. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plains St, Bethel. 203-570-3868. Discussion with Spirit – 7:30pm. Last Friday. Bring questions, receive channeled information to help understand who you are, why you’ve come to the earth plane and empower yourself with messages from Spirit and loved ones. $35. Private residence, Monroe. Information/RSVP: 203-268-3262. Circle of Life – 7:30-9:30pm. Third Friday. Explore topics such as love, trust, permission and forgiveness as tools in navigating through life’s opportunities, losses and changes. Learn how to bring love, life and happiness. Notetaking welcome and encouraged. $40. Bridgeport location given with registration: 203-268-3262. TrinityProduction.org.
$130/10-class pass. Transformation For Life Wellness Center, 6 Walnut St, Danbury. 203-617-8228. Jill.Myruski@gmail.com. TFLWellness.com. Gentle Yoga Classes – 9:30-10:45am. Work on alignment, flexibility and strength in a way that is correct and nurturing for every body. All abilities welcome. Please bring your own yoga mat. $5 donation. Hindu Cultural Center (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. HCC.Yoga.Wendy@gmail. com. HinduCulturalCenter.org/Programs.html. The Healer Within-Techniques for Self Healing – 10am. Workshop of self-healing practices based on the four essential self-care practices from the Wellness System of Chinese Medicine. $50. Halo Studios, 45 Grove St, New Canaan. 203-344-9506. Lou@NBReflexology.com. NBReflexology.com. Mahasati Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am. Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faiths develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org. Auricular (Ear) Acupuncture Clinic – 10:30am1pm. 2nd Saturday. Experience immediate and powerful effects with acupuncture ear points designed to alleviate tension, relax mind and body. Once needles are applied, sit, relax, breath, meditate. $40. Total Life Care Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-2268897. Patricia@PatSinger.com. PatSinger.com.
saturday
Spondylitis Support Group – 11am-12:30pm. Last Saturday. Led by Dr. Andrew Cummins, naturopathic physician. Having lived with the chronic inflammatory disease Ankylosing Spondylitis for the last 18 years, Dr. Cummins understands what living with chronic pain and limited mobility is all about. Group provides education, empowerment, understanding and support. Free. Shalva Clinic, 8 Lincoln St, 1st Fl, Westport. 203-916-4600. DrCummins@ShalvaClinic.org. ShalvaClinic.org.
Angelic Reiki Meditation with Essential Oils – 8-9am. Receive short, hands-on Angelic Reiki, experience powerful techniques to reduce stress and relax. $10. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave (in the back, downstairs), Norwalk. Pre-register: 203-852-1150.
Buddhist Teachings & Practice Discussion Group – 11:45am-1:30pm. Second and fourth Saturday. Join a relaxed group, in a tranquil environment, and explore some of the core principles of Buddhist practice. By donation. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 914-763-4639. Jexel@att.net. ReddingMeditation.org.
Love Yourself Fit Meetings – 8:30am. Support for your sacred journey of real weight loss. Meetings offer you a place to be accountable to your highest vision for your healthiest self. $15. Insights Wellness Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe. 203-260-9353. ChrisGuerrera@me.com. InsightsWellnessCenter.com.
Yoga & Pilates – 8:30-10am. Fun class combining yoga and pilates. In this class we play with all the toys - using bands, blocks, balls and light weights for a complete workout. Lengthen and tone and end with a restorative relaxation. $17/ drop-in, $150/10-Class card. The Graceful Planet, 7 Berkshire Rd, Sandy Hook. 203-426-8215. Kat@ GracefulPlanet.com. GracefulPlanet.com. Community Yoga by Donation – 9-10:15am. Enjoy a 75-minute vinyasa flow yoga practice suitable for all levels with 200RYT Jennifer Cranna. This community class is on a monetary donation basis, so all may reap the benefits of yoga. Bring your mat or use ours. By donation. Zen Do Ju-Jitsu, 80 Park Ln, New Milford. Pranotthan Yoga Classes – 9-10:15am. Classes offerered Tuesday-Saturday. Kripalu-influenced, classic hatha yoga for all levels and styles. Personal inquiry and cultivating individual experience is emphasized. $17/drop in, $75/5-class pass,
Restorative Yoga – 3-5pm. First Saturday. Use props to support your body so you can rest, stretch, lower your heart rate and blood pressure; calm your nervous system and experience deep peace. 28/preregistered; $35/at the door if space is available. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@YogaSpace-CT.com. YogaSpace-CT.com. Knitting Group-Purls of Wisdom – 6-8pm. With Diane Bustamante. Make prayer shawls. Shawls will be blessed by the Unity community and delivered to those in need of comfort. Bring yarn and needles/hook, if you have them. Supplies available for purchase. Love offering. Unity Center, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. UnityPurlsOfWisdom@gmail.com. UnityCenterNorwalk.org/PurlsOfWisdom. Open Mic Night – 7-9pm. 3rd Saturday. Bring music printed out in your key and Kenneth Gartman will accompany you at the piano for your moment at the microphone. Comedians, poets, writers and musicians welcomed as well. $10. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@ UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.
eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
79
communityresourceguide
It’s one of the greatest
Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide (CRG) in print and online email FFCadvertising@ NaturalAwakeningsMag.com to request our advertising rates.
gifts you can give yourself, to forgive. Forgive everybody.
ACUPUNCTURE
~Maya Angelou
ACUPUNCTURE BY JIM FITZPATRICK 3 Hollyhock Lane, Wilton & Community Health Associates of Newtown, 153 South Main St, Newtown 203-257-4377 JimFitz@AcuJimFitz.com • AcuJimFitz.com
classifieds To place a Classified Listing: $1 per word. $25 minimum. Magazine deadline: 12th of month prior to publication. Email copy to NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com. FOR SALE HOUSE FOR SALE – Enjoy your own private nature retreat! 3BDR Colonial with 1.5 Bath, spacious LR and DR, wood floors throughout, wood-burning fireplace, central air. 1 acre property borders a nature preserve with hiking trails; in a private lake community with clubhouse, beach and great canoeing/kayaking. Located in Westchester, NY just minutes from the conveniences of Ridgefield! Needs updating so it’s a steal at $345,000. 914-763-0464.
I bring years of experience and study to my patients to create a relationship that emphasizes clear communication, responsiveness to a patient’s needs and expectations, and effective care with the totality that TCM has to offer: Acupuncture, Herbs, Adjunctive Therapies.
INGRI BOE-WIEGAARD, LAc
Fairfield, Wilton, Bethel 203-259-1660 • CTAcupuncture.com 25-year full-time practice Ingri treatments help alleviate Pain, Depression, Neck & Back, Anxiety, Headaches, Stress, Allergies, Asthma, Arthritis, Digestive, Menstrual, Infertility and Smoking & Weight Loss Issues. See ad, page 55.
DISTRIBUTORS WANTED for monthly deliveries of Natural Awakenings and other local publications. Perfect for a retired person or stay-at-home mom looking to earn some extra income and connect with their local community. Honesty and dependability are the most important characteristics of our distributors if you don’t have it in spades, please do not apply! Thomas@ManInMotionLLC.com. DO YOU LOVE NATURAL AWAKENINGS AND WANT TO GET INVOLVED? Sales and Community Street team opportunities are now available, please reach out to NicoleM@ NaturalAwakeningsmag.com for details. Requires a sense of humor, time, commitment and passion for the work. You won’t regret it!
WOMEN WALKING PARTNERS
High-quality acupuncture at the most affordable prices in Fairfield County. 20+ years experience, specializing in treating all kinds of pain and general health issues.
PATRICIA SINGER MS LAC 544 Riverside Ave, Westport 203-226-8897 • PatSinger.com
As a Spiritual Alchemist, I use a customized one-on-one approach to connect on many levels to assist in the healing process. Modalities: acupuncture, shiatsu, aromatherapy, dietary therapy, sound and energy healing, ceremony, and spiritual counseling. See ad, page 17.
WOMEN WALKING PARTNERS – Connect with the “Get Outside & Walk” movement of women walking partners. Find walking partners. Be a walking partner. Join us. Womenwalking. net. Support@WomenWalking.net.
80
Fairfield County Edition
AURA PHOTOS UNLIMITED
Jan & Jay 203-266-0317 • AuraPhotosUnlimited@hotmail.com AuraPhotosUnlimited.com Specializing in aura photos, chakra images and personalized bio data reports. Prices range from $25-$70. Various options available. See website for event schedule. Available for private parties and corporate affairs. Interesting, educational and fun!
BREAST THERMOGRAPHY ALBA THERMAL IMAGING LLC
Safe, painless early detection 71 East Ave, Ste D, Norwalk 203-856-1421 • AlbaThermalImaging.com Thermography can detect breast disease at its earliest stages and monitor and assess pain in any part of the body. Safe, painless, noninvasive, FDA registered. See ad, page 22.
JODY EISEMANN, LAc
Offices in Norwalk, Southport and Trumbull 203-216-2548 • AcupunctureHealingCT.com
HELP WANTED
AURA PHOTOGRAPHY
natural awakenings
XTORAYS.COM
Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging Suzanne Pyle, MS, CCT 866-XtoRAYS • SuzannePyle@prodigy.net Get peace of mind with safe (no radiation), FDA-approved breast cancer screening. 8 years earlier detection vs. mammography. Certified DITI thermographer. Conveniently located throughout Fairfield. See ad, page 14.
CHIROPRACTIC PETER BRAGLIA, DC
True Health Family Chiropractic 7365 Main St, Stratford 203-923-8633 • TrueHealthCT.com As a member of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association, Dr. Braglia has received advanced training in Pediatric Adjusting and Prenatal Care, including the Webster Technique. We are proud to serve patients from all over Fairfield and New Haven County with our unique and gentle approach to health care. See ad, page 15.
CHIROPRACTIC RISA SLOVES, DC
Associates in Family Chiropractic & Natural Health Care 156 East Ave, Norwalk 203-838-1555 • CTChiropractic.com Dr. Risa Sloves is 1 of 12 Chiropractic Physicians in Connecticut with Board Certification in Maternity and Pediatric Care including Webster and Bagnell Tu r n i n g Te c h n i q u e s . A l s o provided: acupuncture, BioSET Allergy Elimination Technique and the DRX9000 Spinal Decompression. See ad, page 25.
COLONICS
EDUCATION
HEALTH COACH
HOUSATONIC VALLEY WALDORF SCHOOL
MARY GILBERTSON MS, BSN,CHHC
40 Dodgingtown Rd, Newtown 203-364-1113 • WaldorfCT.org We develop each child’s unique capacity to engage meaningfully in the world by integrating experiential and artistic learning, academic excellence, respect for diversity and reverence for nature. See ad, page 18.
RIDLEY-LOWELL BUSINESS & TECHNICAL INSTITUTE 44 Shelter Rock Rd, Danbury 203-797-0551 • Ridley.edu
Experience and personalized service you can trust. The finest in colonic irrigation and personal care. Serving the tri-state area since 1993.
WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC
501 Kings Highway East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com Ready to start feeling healthier? Take your first step with this gentle cleansing procedure. Watch our colonic and detoxification videos on our new video website located at WholeBodyMed.com. Call for Free CD on detoxification. See ad, page 2.
CRYSTALS MOTHER EARTH GALLERY 449 Danbury Rd, New Milford 203-775-6272 MotherEarthCrystals.com
The area’s finest crystal shop for natural, polished & tumbled gemstones for healing or collecting. Handcrafted gemstone jewelry, candles, chimes, books as well as a showcase for local artisans. See ad, page 28.
Accredited institution offering skilled training in the following fields: Massage Therapy, Medical Assisting, Medical Admin Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, Information Technology and Electrical Systems Technician;day/evening classes, Financial Aid (if eligible), free placement assistance. See ad pg 12.
WESTBROOK NATURE SCHOOL 7 Long Ridge Rd, West Redding 203-664-1554 Info@WestbrookNatureSchool.org WestbrookNatureSchool.org
A nature-based education on six acres of trails, streams, and meadows, with an organic garden and natural playscapes. Our curriculum builds physical and emotional resilience, moral awareness and the foundation required for intellectual growth. See ad, page 53.
EXPRESSIVE ARTS SOUL COLLAGE
Zelie Pforzheimer PforzSoulCollage.com • PforzSoul@gmail.com Combining Meditation and Where Creativity and Meditation meet Creativity leads to clarity in Introduction to SoulCollage® life’s daily issues in a fun and Monday, October 5, 10:30 am-1:00 pm Tuesday, October 6, 1:00-3:00 pm reprogramfulfilling way while Wednesday, October 21, 7:30-9:30 pm ing your brain for success. SoulZelie Pforzheimer Collage® uses images found in To register, visit: www.pforzsoulcollage.com magazines and books to create small collaged cards to be used as tools for self-inquiry. See ad, page 14. Classes held in Wilton CT. $35/class.
All supplies are provided, but bringing a personal journal is suggested. Certified SoulCollage® Facilitator
SoulCollage® created by Seena Frost and described in her book: SoulCollage: An Intuitive Process for Individuals and Groups.
Working 1:1 in groups and corporations to develop customized healthy lifestyle plans. You receive tools to optimize your health through nutrition, disease management, exercise, weight loss & stress reduction. 28 years of experience supporting teens & adults in healthy lifestyle. Available for speaking engagements and health events. See ad, page 7.
HOLISTIC DENTIST
COLONICS
914-921-LIFE (5433) LifelineHygienics.com
Licensed RN, Nutritionist & Certified Health Coach 500 Monroe Tpke, Monroe • 203-521-4733 GilbertsonMary@yahoo.com Prescription4Wellness.com
MARK A. BREINER, DDS, FIAOMT
501 Kings Highway East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-0300 • WholeBodyDentistry.com Dr. Mark A. Breiner is a pioneer and recognized authority in the field of holistic dentistry. With over 30 years of experience, he is a sought after speaker and lecturer. His popular consumer book, Whole-Body Dentistry, has been sold world-wide. See ad, page 2.
CONNECTICUT HEADACHE & MIGRAINE RELIEF CENTER/ TOM ANZALONE, DDS
235 Glenville Rd, Ste 2B, Greenwich 203-531-5688 • CTHeadacheRelief.com Connecticut Headache and Migraine Relief Center’s (CHM RC) approach to head-ache pain relief actually addresses and treats the sources of the problem. Using techniques that have been proven effective in sports medicine, the CHMRC system targets improper muscle forces in the head, neck, and jaw area that cause painful conditions. See ad, page 6.
HYPNOSIS MIND-BODY TRANSFORMATION HYPNOSIS Diane Bahr-Groth, CHy, TFTdx 1177 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-595-0110 • MindBodyTransformation.com
Fast, effective methods for weight, stress, fear, pain, smoking, etc. Certified Hypnotherapist, Thought Field Therapy, Time Line Therapy, NLP and Complementary Medical Hypnosis, since 1989. See ads, pages 8 and 23.
eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
81
INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PHYSICIAN
INTUITIVE CONSULTANT ALTHEA DEPASCALE
HENRY C. SOBO, M.D.
Appts in Westport or by phone 860-677-8750 or 860-559-3695 AltheaDePascale.com AcDePascale@comcast.net
Optimal Health Medical, LLC 111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-348-8805 • DrSobo.com Dr. Sobo provides Natural Horm-one therapy, Weight Reduction programs, IV Vitamin/Minerals treatments, Allergy evaluation and treatment, Fibromyalgia care, and treatment for a wide variety of problems utilizing an Integrative Medicine approach.
STAMFORD INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE Michael E. Doyle, M.D. Conventional & Alternative Medicine 22 5th St, Ste 201, Stamford 203-324-4747 StamfordIntegrativeMedicine.com
I am a highly respected and skilled clairvoyant, intuitive life coach, psychic, medium, as well as past life reader and facilitator. My internationally based clients are from all walks of life, including medical doctors, attorneys, social workers, teachers, nurses, athletes, widely recognized high profile artists and public figures such as actors. See ad, page 27.
KIMBERLY TAYLOR
Specializing in Natural and Alternative approaches to restoring health. Focusing on underlying causes of illness. Hypothyroidism, hormonal imbalances, nutrition and much more. See ad, page 10.
INTEGRATIVE NATURAL MEDICINE SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER
Ken Hoffman, DAc, (RI), LAc, CCH, Medical Director Bruce Roff, LAc, LMT, Senior Associate Craig Pannone, ND, Naturopathic Physician 31 Old Rt 7, Brookfield 203-740-9300 • INM.center Using naturopathic and Chinese medical principles, we get to the source of your health concerns. Diagnostic methods include functional testing such as advanced bloodwork analysis, cardiovascular testing, hormone evaluation and thermography. Our customized treatment program includes acupuncture, herbal and nutritional medicine, diet and lifestyle counseling and more. Most insurance accepted. See ad, page 3.
INTEGRATIVE OPTOMETRY EYECARE ASSOCIATES, PC
Randy Schulman, M.S., O.D., FCOVD, Stephen Carr, O.D., Narvan Bakhtiari, O.D., Brian Rodrigues, O.D., Jason Rutherford, O.D Locations: 6515 Main St, Trumbull • 203-374-2020 444 Westport Ave, Norwalk • 203-840-1991 2600 Post Rd, Southport • 203-255-4005 CTEyeCareAssociates.com
Crystal Visions, Inc. 1 Rt 37 East, Ste 2, Sherman 860-210-9897 • CrystalVisionsCT.com Kimberly is a psychic medium and intuitive. Readings consist of childhood experiences, present personal and professional relationship paths and future outcomes of major life decisions. Kimberly can also be a conduit for lost loved ones. See ad, page 11.
PSYCHIC ENERGY CENTER Kimberly Adams 415 Main St, Unit F, Ridgefield 203-702-3247 RidgefieldCTPsychic.com
Specializing in chakra and energy balancing and tarot readings, I offer many different tools to help you realign with your inner self. As a 3rd generation healer, I am excited to share my love of energy correction with my clients. See ad, page 42.
JOINT PAIN DONNA MILANA
914-882-9758 DonnaHealthyLife123@gmail.com HealthyLegs123.com Ache joints? Considering a replacement, try “JUSURU LIQUID BIO CELL” The Best Bone, Joint and Skin Product in the world with 7 Patents. Natural cartilage regeneration and lubrication, liquid. Helps to protect, repair, rebuild & prevent deterioration.
We offer behavioral optometry, comprehensive vision exams, contact lenses and vision therapy. See ad, page 14.
82
Fairfield County Edition
natural awakenings
MASSAGE & BODYWORK LAURA CARLSON, LMT
Redding/Monroe/Easton 203-885-7353 (SELF) Facebook.com/LauraCarlsonMassageLLC Yo u d e s e r v e t o b e nurtured and time to be still, to breathe and to restore balance. Relaxing and nourishing massage will encourage positive changes in your mind and body. Individual sessions and massage parties available.
ROBIN ORDAN, LMT, LCSW, CICMI Licensed Massage Therapist & Reiki Practitioner Old Greenwich/Stamford 203-561-8535 • RobinOrdanLMT.com
Robin has been providing massage and Reiki for over 15 years. Specializing in Swedish, Pregnancy, Trigger Point, Injuries and Infant/ Child Massage Instruction. Sessions are individualized to meet your needs. See ad, page 28.
MASSAGE SCHOOL FINGER LAKES SCHOOL OF MASSAGE
272 N. Bedford Rd, Mount Kisco, NY 914-241-7363 • FLSM.com Join us for a transformative experience as you develop your intuitive and scientific abilities to heal through therapeutic touch. Classes taught to auditory, visual and kinesthetic learners. Financial aid available for full and part-time programs..
MEDITATION REDDING CENTER FOR MEDITATION 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding 203-244-3130 ReddingMeditation.org
We teach and practice Mahasati meditation. Mahasati meditation cultivates self-awareness through attention to the movement of the body and, at more advanced levels, to the movement of the mind. No prior meditating experience is necessary. Ongoing weekly meditation classes, retreats and events. Please check monthly event calendar or visit ReddingMeditation. org for updated information.
NATURAL FOOD MARKET THE COMMON BOND MARKET 40 Huntington St, Shelton TheCommonBondMarket.com 203-513-8200
The Common Bond Market is a natural food market that provides The Valley with more healthful alternatives than the usual grocery fare. You’ll also find hot food, supplements, and much more. Find us on Facebook! See ad, page 65.
NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN NATURAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER
Lisa Singley, ND, MS 2103 Main St, Ste 2, Stratford 203-874-4333 Info@NHAWC.com • NHAWC.com We use advanced diagnostic testing with safe, effective, allnatural healing modalities and treatment options to treat acute and chronic conditions, restore balance and treat the mind, body and spirit. Specialists in endocrine disorders, digestive issues, pain management and chronic fatigue. We offer comprehensive solutions to prevent illness and maintain optimal health for body, mind and spirit.
MARVIN P. SCHWEITZER, ND
Wellness Institute 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203-847-2788 • DrMarvinSchweitzer.com Family Health Care using all natural therapies for 25 years. Acupuncture, Bio-Identical Hormones, Homeopathy, Chinese/Western Herbs, Allergy/Toxin Testing, Oxygen T h e r a p y, M e r i d i a n S t r e s s Assessment, Nutrition/Enzyme Therapies. See ad, page 43.
SHALVA CLINIC, LLC
Ellen M. Lewis, ND, Director 8 Lincoln St, Westport 203-916-4600 • ShalvaClinic.org Dr. Lewis offers comprehensive holistic care for women including well-women exams, fertility, thyroid and menopause support. She also has a special interest in pediatrics and utilizes a variety of natural modalities when working with patients with ADD/ADHD, autism, allergies, eczema and asthma. Treatments include herbal medicine, functional medicine, biotherapeutic drainage, homeopathy and more. See ad, page 37.
NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN DR. MARINA YANOVER, ND, LAC 1720 Post Rd East, Ste 213, Westport 203-255-5005 • BigAppleHealth.com
Naturopathic Medicine, Acupuncture, Craniosacral Therapy, Natural Face Lift using microcurrent therapy. Specialties include Family Medicine, Women’s Health, Endocrinology, Gastroenterology, Pain Man-agement, Skin Care. Insurance accepted.
WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC
Adam Breiner, ND, Director Elena Sokolova, M.D., ND David Brady, ND, CCN, DACBN 501 Kings Highway East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com Using state-of-the-art science combined with centuries-old healing modalities, our caring naturopathic doctors correct underlying imbalances and address issues which may interfere with the body’s ability to heal itself. Treatment protocols or therapies include: Abdominal Manual Therapy, Acupuncture, Allergy Desensitization, Chinese Medicine, Colonics and other Detoxification Protocols, Electro-Dermal Screening, Energy Medicine, FDA-cleared Phototherapy, Functional Medicine, Herbal Medicine, Homeopathy, Hormonal Balancing, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Metabolic Typing, Nutritional Assessment, Real-Time EEG Neurofeedback and other therapies. See ad, page 2.
PHYSICAL THERAPY PHYSICAL THERAPY OF SOUTHERN CT
PSYCHOTHERAPY MARIA C. CASTILLO, MSW, LCSW 238 Monroe Tpke, Ste B, Monroe 203-445-8966 • Msisi@aol.com LifeBetweenLivesTherapy.com
Past Life Regression, trained by Brian Weiss, MD. Life Between Lives Hypnotherapy, trained by TNI and Michael Newton, PhD. Traditional psychotherapy with a spiritual approach; Reiki. Connect with your soul self and let your inner wisdom guide you.
CHRISTINE GUERRERA, LMFT
PsychoSpiritual Therapy & Coaching InsightsWellnessCenter.com 203-260-9353 • ChrisGuerrera@me.com Non-traditional holistic sessions to free and empower yourself on your path of healing and awakening with a blend of psycho-spiritual therapy, energetics and universal wisdom.
HARMONY OF THE MIND, BODY, & SOUL LLC
Anasta Kydes MA, NCC, LPC, ACSM CPT (Licensed Psychotherapist and Certified Personal Trainer) 91 East Ave, Norwalk 203-318-4514 • AnastaKydes@yahoo.com A client centered approach is taken in a supportive, non-judgmental, empathetic, and compassionate environment. I teach coping skills to help manage life’s challenges and incorporate exercise and meditation upon your request to help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress.See ad, page 11.
YUDIT MAROS, LMFT, CHt
100 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-244-5898 • Center4AuthenticLiving.com
Author of Apple of My I: The Four Practices of Self-Love. There is hope! Even life-long unhappiness can be helped. State-of-the art Specializing in evaluation & psychotherapy for individuals of treatment of musculoskeletal all ages, couples and families. imbalance & injuries. Results Trauma resolution, Relationship achieved that traditional physical Clinics, six-week Authenticity Clinics for inner therapy may not. Therapeutic approaches such as manual connection. therapy, cranialsacral, visceral manipulation and vestibular rehab. State of the art ROBIN ORDAN, LCSW facility for strengthening & overall rehabilitation. Family, Child, Individual & Couples Therapy
Linda Maude, PT 917 Bridgeport Ave, Shelton 203-926-6997 • PhysicalTherapySoCT.com
Old Greenwich/Stamford 203-561-8535 • RobinOrdanLCSW.com
Robin has more than 18 years of experience working with families and children. Specializing in Divorce, Parent/Child Conflict, Grief, Attachment/Bonding, Child Development and Parenting. See ad, page 11.
eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
83
REIKI
PSYCHOTHERAPY
VIRGINIA TRINQUE,
DENI WEBER, MA, LPC, D-CEP
Holistic Psychotherapist Comprehensive Energy Psychology Fairfield County 203-544-6094 • DeniWeber.com Within a supportive, empathic relationship Deni guides individuals on their journey of selfdiscovery integrating psychology, Eastern medicine and spirituality to heal suffering from traumatic stress related to chronic illness, disabilities, abuse & PTSD.
REIKI GIGI BENANTI, USUI REIKI MASTER Angelic Healing Center 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk 203-852-1150 • AngelHealReiki.com
Usui Reiki Master Danbury 203-733-1330 VirginiasHealthyLiving@gmail.com VirginiasHealthyLiving.com Virginia is a Reiki Master/Teacher with years of experience healing children and adults. Specializing in physical and spiritual pain relief and “body and soul integration” for easier living in this world. Usui Reiki classes offered for Master level, Levels I and II and Teacher Training. Sessions and classes held in a private, serene setting.
TURNING POINT HEALING ARTS AND EDUCATION CENTER
JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT – Turning Point Reiki, LLC 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield Gigi is an experienced Reiki 203-438-3050 Master/Teacher. She offers all TurningPointReiki.com levels of Reiki training monthly. TurningPointShare.com All classes and Reiki sessions include the latest techniques including Karuna, Angelic and Jikiden Reiki.
DEBORAH GAYLORD, RMT, IARP
Ridgefield/Danbury 203-733-4535 • DmGaylord@yahoo.com A Reiki Master since 2001, Deborah has worked with clients from infants to the elderly, specializing in children/teens/ young adults with ADHD, anxiety, and depression..
RIVER’S EDGE REIKI
Lori Haggerty • Usui Reiki Master Bethel • 203-994-8978 RiversEdgeReiki.com Feeling the negative effects of a high stress life? Illness, unhappiness, exhaustion? Experience the power of Reiki and how it can restore you physically, emotionally and spiritually. Sessions for adults, children and senior citizens (geriatrics is my specialty!). Reiki training classes offered for all levels. See ad, page 52.
84
Fairfield County Edition
TRANSFORMATIVE HEALING
JoAnn uses intuition, experience and a deep spiritual connection in her Reiki, IET and Reconnective Healing sessions. Specializing in care for individuals with Cancer, Lyme disease and Back Pain. All Reiki levels taught.
SHAMANIC PRACTITIONER HUNTER HEALING HANDS
Jessica C. Hunter 203-916-8381 HunterHealingHands@hotmail.com HunterHealingHands.com Healing sessions in shamanic healing, Melody crystal healing, reiki, shamanic intuitive readings. Accredited and certification training programs in reiki, crystal healing, and shamanic healing. See ad, page 13.
natural awakenings
BETH LEAS
Transformative Healing • Tarot Offices in Norwalk & Ridgefield 203-856-9566 BethLeas.com • TLCTarot.com If not now, when? Inspire change on all levels - greater physical ease, emotional freedom, peace of mind and spiritual connection. 20 years intuitive healing experience with adults and children of all ages. Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tarot. See ad, page 16.
BRILLIANT SOUL Newtown 203-364-6262 BrilliantSoul.com
Your brilliant soul heals you physically/mentally / emotionally/spiritually through my CranioSacral Therapy/ SomatoEmotional Release, Ki/ Pranic/Reiki Energy, channeling, soul contract info/clearing, pure essential oils & Crystal chakra bowls! See ad, page 11.
CORE RELATIONS
Karin Knoblich, CCEP 522 East Putnam Ave, Ste 8A, Greenwich 1239 Broadway, Ste 1003A, New York, NY Core-Relations.com • 917-548-8689 Transform negativity into positive energy. Release stress, anxiety and depression through the use of breath, movement and touch. Reclaim your authentic self by allowing joy to guide and embody the powerful, loving being you are. Individual and couples sessions, workshops and groups.
HEART’S DESIRE METHOD Shiloh@TheHDMethod.com TheHDMethod.com
The Heart’s Desire Method – 7 Steps to making your dreams come true. Bring high- definition focus on what you want in all areas – work, family, relationships and money. By energizing the healing power of the authentic self, you will lead a happier, more peaceful and fulfilling life.
WEIGHT LOSS
COSMIC RHYTHMS
NUWEIGH NUTRITION & WEIGHT LOSS SERVICES, LLC/ IDEAL PROTEIN CLINIC 90 Grove St, Ste 03, Ridgefield 203-403-4187 Ingrid@NuWeighWellness.com NuWeighWellness.com
The Ideal Protein Protocol is a medically derived weight loss method refined over 20 years. The fundamental philosophy is to increase overall well being through sensible weight loss and empower clients through coaching to make sustainable, smarter lifestyle choices after they have lost excess weight.
WELLNESS CENTER iFLOAT
163 Main St, Westport 203-226-7378 • iFloatSpa.net Experience this superior form of body/mind relaxation as you float effortlessly in warm water with high concentrations of Epsom salt. Relieve stress, chronic pain and more. See ad, page 17.
KURE SPA
430 Main Ave, 2nd Flr, Norwalk (Wilton Line) 203-857-1500 • Kure-Spa.com Kure Spa rovides a place for people to rely on as part of their weekly routine to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Experience our 4-Pillars of Health for 30-days and we’ll transform your life to one of Health, Healing & Vitality! Offering Vibrosaun, yoga, massage, and an organic juice bar. See ad, back cover.
SALTANA CAVE
590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-969-4327 SaltanaCave.com Fairfield County’s first and only therapeutic Himalayan salt cave provides relief from respiratory issues such as allergies, asthma, and side effects of smoking and pollution. Salt is naturally antiinflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal.
by Alethea Hunt
A
focus on relationships is a theme continuing throughout October. Many important conversations will be had during the month’s first two weeks – especially regarding relationship status, the goals and expectations for unions and alliances, and also what decisions are best for all involved. This is definitely a time to handle related dialogs maturely and gain clarity on these subject matters. A “head-over-heart” theme does seem to be a pervasive note in October overall, so analytical discernment is favored regarding all one-on-one unions for business or pleasure. That said, moderating this so there is no inclination to micro-focus on minutiae - in a “can’t see the forest for the trees” sense - can eschew potential scenarios where a relationship (or partner) may be picked to pieces. Mid month there may be some relational dissonance as Venus in Virgo opposes Neptune in Pisces. The “perfect” partner may be an illusion, so it’s important not to dissect flaws in others via laundry list-style criteria. Similarly, the other end of the spectrum equates to having no criteria at all to check off; avoid total non-judgment because as this can create blinders where compassion, charity and forgiveness may be given to someone who is unworthy of this love – there is middle ground here. New relationship beginnings are highlighted by the Libra New Moon on Oct 12, so set an intention for a healthy new start with Venus traversing Virgo. The moon’s contact to social Uranus favors friendship as well as love, so don’t think of “new relationships” purely in a romantic context. Bonding can easily take place between people “of like mind”, so
socialize and consider involvement in a group/club/meetup or – if you are looking to partner – even doing an online matchmaking site. This lunation does also favor exploration of nontraditional unions – whether “open”, polyamorous, gay, lesbian, or any other kind of relationship that would tend to fall outside the confines of the conventional; be open to something different if you find yourself attracted to someone outside of your norm. Gay or straight, know that friendships can also be inclined to unexpectedly turn into something more. A full moon in Taurus on October 27 highlights finances and suggests the curbing of luxury cravings. Certain creature comforts do nurture a feeling of security so it can’t be total austerity. However, the Scorpio Sun opposite this moon indicates there may be things that need to be purged on the material plane. Have a tag sale or put things on consignment. And if you’re in a shopping mood, consider secondhand shops, flea markets and the like to really make your budget work for you and maximize savings. You might also think about repurposing some of your possessions. There is a fleshly component to this moon that may require putting the brakes on any sexual involvements that give rise to self-worth-related insecurity. Protect your body and emotions in any situation that could possibly generate feelings of objectification. A practitioner of Western Tropical astrology, Alethea Hunt has been practicing for more than 17 years. Connect with her at 203-917-6312, Alethea@EmpoweredDestiny.com or EmpoweredDestiny.com.
eNaturalAwakenings.com
October 2015
85
Fall For That Special Someone
displayadvertiserindex Acupuncture Center/Ingri Boe-Wiegaard
55
Mind-Body Transformation
23
Acu-Thin/Westport Chiropractic
12
Mind-Body Transformation
8
Alba Thermal Imaging
22
Mother Earth Gallery
28
Alina’s Patisserie
63
Mowatt Painting & Services
25
Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care
25
Natural Awakenings’ Franchise Sales
73
Judith Barr
27
Basil Yoga
31
Big Brothers Big Sisters
35
The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center: Medical
2
The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center: Dental
2
Join for FREE at NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com 86
Fairfield County Edition
27
New Age & Crafts Expo
35
New Milford Hospital Integrative Medicine 9 Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic
70
Olivette 57 Robin Ordan, LMT
28 11
Briana Salon
27
Brilliant Soul/Carla Bates Barzetti
11
Organic Sleep at Sleep Etc
40
The Center for Natural Health
23
Palmwich
58
Chamomille Natural Foods
57
Paul’s Custom Pet Food
68
The Cleanest Touch
45
Prescription for Wellness/Mary Gilbertson 7
The Common Bond Market
65
Psychic Energy Center
42
11
Julie Punishill
17
Ridley-Lowell Business & Technical Institute
12
Salon Aponte
23
Salt of the Earth Therapeutic Spa
37
Shalva Clinic/Ellen Lewis, ND
37
CT Headache & Migraine Center
eco-minded and spiritual singles for FREE and manifest an extraordinary relationship!
Nature’s Way Natural Foods
Robin Ordan, LCSW
Crystal Visions
the largest database Join of health-conscious,
Nature’s Temptations Healthy Food Market 58
6
Althea DePascale
27
Destination Wellness Expo
49
Detoxified Iodine
51
DoTerra/Lori Haggerty
52
Michael E. Doyle, MD/ Stamford Integrative Medicine
Victoria Shaw, PhD
34
10
Patricia Singer
17
Embody the Sacred
28
SOPHIA Natural Health Center
Eyecare Associates
14
Final Journey LLC
69
Soul Centered Healing/ Danielle Joffe Hampton
17
Five Star Printing
53
Soul Collage
14
Debra Gibson, ND
33
Soul Focus/Mela Rispoli
28
Gluten Free Food Allergy Fest
59
Soul Fulfillment/Carrie Picardi
31
The Graduate Institute
21
Hands & Paws Reiki for All
69
Stamford Hospital Health Wellness & Sports Expo
53
Healthy Choice Mattress
30
STARS Fall Festival
71
Holistic Holiday at Sea
87
Housatonic Valley Waldorf School
18
Hunter Healing Hands
13
Ifloat
17
Izzi B’s
56
Kindred Spirits
7
Kure Spa
88
Anasta Kydes/Harmony of the Mind, Body & Soul
11
The Last Resort
72
Beth Leas
16
LifePath Yoga & Wellness
31
Lipo-Light/Westport Chiropractic
39
Living Organized
natural awakenings
7
Sticks & Stones Farm Hilda Swaby Total Life Care Center
3
9 17 16-17
Touch of Sedona
49
True Health Chiropractic
15
Unity Center for Practical Spirituality
24
University of Bridgeport Clinics
20
Wellness Institute/ Marvin Schweitzer, ND
43
Westbrook Nature School
53
Westport Farmers Market
58
Whistle Stop Bakery
57
Whole Foods
64
X to Rays
14
Yoga for Everybody 31
Chosen by National Geographic Traveler as
One of the 100 best worldwide vacations to enrich your life.
Feb. 27 - Mar. 5, 2016 Join our 13th annual Holistic Holiday at Sea cruise for 7 nights on the luxurious MSC Divina, one of the most ecologically-friendly and elegant cruise liners on the seas. Bask in gracious Italian hospitality and service all while enjoying inspiring lectures and vegan natural foods prepared by our own chefs. Departing from Miami, FL and sailing to beautiful St. Thomas, Virgin Islands; historic San Juan, Puerto Rico; & the paradise of Nassau, Bahamas. Learn more about the classes, cuisine and itinerary at holisticholidayatsea.com. Food options for everyone - vegan, gluten-free, oil-free & ship’s menu
Join 1800+ Like-Minded Vegans
Lectures & Workshops
Featuring World-Renowned Chefs, Teachers & Healers Co-author of The China Study and author of Whole: Rethinking the Science of Nutrition; featured in the film Forks Over Knives
Physician, author, & internationally-recognized speaker on nutrition; founded NutritionFacts.org; spoke at Congress, on Dr. Oz, & the Colbert Report
T. COLIN CAMPBELL, PH.D.
MICHAEL GREGER, M.D.
Founder of the Physicians Commitee for Responsible Medicine; author of Food for Life & Power Foods for the Brain; active health advocate
Swim, snorkel & kayak in the crystal waters of the Caribbean
Long-time radio host, acclaimed physician and health educator; practices nutritionally-based medicine at True North Health Center
NEAL BARNARD, M.D. Chef & author of Unprocessed: How to Achieve Vibrant Health and Your Ideal Weight, inspiring public speaker & cooking instructor
Continuing Education Credits (CMEs & CEUs) will be available Award-winning environmentally-friendly ship
MICHAEL KLAPER, M.D. Yoga teacher, health & wellness coach, aerial performer, stunt woman & actor. Her education stems from a lifetime of living a holistic lifestyle.
CHEF AJ
ANGELICA KUSHI
Dancing, socials & singles events Vegan pizza & ice cream parties Cancer support group & recovery panel 35 teachers 135 lectures & workshops 10 cooking classes, 4 intensives Daily yoga, meditation, Pilates, Qi Gong, Do-In, running, fitness & body building classes Private consultations & treatments available
Relaxing Vacation
Learn More
Spiritual Practices
Gourmet Cuisine
Book Today
holisticholidayatsea.com Lorraine Travel info@holisticholidayatsea.com bookings@holisticholidayatsea.com Toll-Free (US): 1-800-496-0989 Toll-Free: 1-877-844-7977 Ph: 1-828-749-9537 Ph: 1-305-443-0542 Or join the conversation: (option 1 for program information Holistic Holiday at Sea option 2 for travel agent) All reservations for our holistic group holisticholidayatsea.com/blog eNaturalAwakenings.com October 2015 87 must be made through Lorraine Travel
88
Fairfield County Edition
natural awakenings