Natural Awakenings Fairfield County October 2016

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

Modern Shamanism

Reconnecting Spirit with Everyday Life

The Art of Dying Well

Bringing Awareness and Meaning to Transition

FREE

CHANGE MAKERS

Inspired Actions Help the World

Sacred Circling

Labyrinths Calm and Center Us

October 2016 | Fairfield County Edition | eNaturalAwakenings.com

The Natural Choice – The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center

Optimize Your Smile and Your Health!

Whole-Body Dentistry® provides comprehensive oral health care using traditional and holistic approaches. We understand the “mouth-body connection.”

Mark A. Breiner, DDS

Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry Fellow of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology Speaker and best-selling author of Whole-Body Dentistry®

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

WholeBodyDentistry.com 203-371-0300

501 Kings Highway East, Suite 108, Fairfield CT

Doesn’t it make sense to see the authority?

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

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

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

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

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

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1st Session

FREE

Offer Expires 10/31/16

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October 2016

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letterfrompublisher

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contact us Publisher/Executive Editor Nicole Miale Editor Ariana Rawls Fine Design & Production Kathleen Fellows Erica Mills Contributing Writers Gwen Gangi, Sheri Hatfield, Andrew Mangold, Leslie McLean Mary Oquendo, Sales & Marketing Alix Bacher Nicole Miale Distribution Man in Motion LLC Natural Awakenings Fairfield County 54 Danbury Rd, Ste 323 Ridgefield, CT 06877 Phone: 203-885-4674 Fax: 203-516-2392 NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com eNaturalAwakenings.com NAWebstore.com NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com © 2016 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved.

Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.

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

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

We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available by sending $30 (for 12 issues) to the above address.

enjamin Franklin, a great innovator and leader our country wishes we had these days, once said, “In this world, nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” While those two are still true, I humbly add a third to the list: change. Whether gradual or sudden, expected or shocking, joyful or painful, emotional or material, this much is clear: change will come again and again.

It leads us to the question of our own tendencies in the face of change. Do we ride the waves of change, stumble through them half-upright through force of will, or do we tumble upside down and let Nicole Miale ourselves be pummeled?

For me, the answer is definitely a combination of all three depending on the situation. I suspect that is true of most people. This is why I am fascinated by people who seem to fall into a different category, people who are ahead of the change or even creating the waves. These are folks who walk near the edge without obvious concern, leading without fear or even acknowledgement of failure though I’m sure there was plenty of failure behind their success. I wonder about trailblazers and groundbreakers; they provide me with tremendous inspiration and hope in times when I’m feeling pummeled. When I think of JK Rowling writing Harry Potter while being unemployed and sitting in a coffee shop, I am inspired and wowed.

In this month’s issue, we salute change makers in our community and in the world. These are people who saw a void and created a process or product to fill it.

People who recognized a need and offer skills or services to help others. Organizations dedicated to improving the situation and consciousness of the individuals and communities in which they operate. I am grateful the profession I’ve chosen is on the leading edge in its subject matter; it enables me to surround myself with people who think a little differently and look at things from an alternate perspective. I love that! Most of the practitioners and businesses who advertise in and contribute to Natural Awakenings are community game changers in some way; all bring to the table unique skills, talents and offerings. What a blessing to share them with you!

In several different articles, we have highlighted community members to give you a glimpse of enterprising and inspiring activities happening near us. These include an inspirational weaving community of refugees in Bridgeport, a place for intentional reflection in New Canaan and a beautiful new trail of fruit trees growing in Newtown, among many other stories.

Back to Ben Franklin’s statement for a moment; he wasn’t wrong about the inevitability of death. How come if we know it’s going to happen and it’s natural, we are all so afraid of it? We examined this topic in several pieces about the art of dying and how different our view of death and dying is compared to ancient and indigenous cultures. Death is inevitable, yes, and like change, it occurs in many ways and forms. One thing is certain; like any transition, it can be managed, improved and even celebrated if we remove some of the anxiety and fear surrounding it.

There are some fabulous events all around our area this month. I hope to see many of you there!

With love and light,

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

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

contents 16

18

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6 newsbriefs 16 healthbriefs 18 globalbriefs 20 eventspotlight 22 masteringyoga 29 productmarketplace 40 wisewords 41 inspiration 44 inspiredtable 45 consciouseating 52 naturallyhealthypet 55 communityspotlight 57 petresourceguide 58 calendar 63 classifieds 64 resourceguide 70 displayadindex

advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 203-885-4674 or email FFCAdvertising@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

Deadline for ads: the 12th of the month.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com.

Deadline for News Briefs: the 12th of the month.

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com.

Deadline for magazine calendar listings: the 12th of the month. Website calendar listings may be entered at any time.

REGIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets!

Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-449-8309. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

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

24 CHANGE MAKERS

by Linda Sechrist

27 BEING THE CHANGE

Creating and Uplifting Community

by Sheri Hatfield

30 REAL NEWS

THAT MATTERS

Independent Media Tell Us the Truth

by Linda Sechrist

34 THE ART OF DYING WELL

Bringing Awareness and Meaning to Transition

by Sheri Hatfield

30

38 THE SHAMANIC PATH

IN MODERN TIMES

Reconnecting Spirit with Health, Healing and Everyday Life

by Deana Paqua

38

46 NEWTOWN’S FRUIT

TRAIL RIPENS

A Path Toward Global Restoration

48

by Leslie McLean and Andrew Mangold

48 WALKING MEDITATION The Calming and Centering Effects of Labyrinths

by Gina McGalliard

56

50 PLANET-FRIENDLY AND PROFITABLE The Rise of Ecopreneurs

by Avery Mack

eNaturalAwakenings.com

24

Inspired to Act

56 CAT-ASTROPHE

How to Slim a Fat Feline

by Sandra Murphy eNaturalAwakenings.com

October 2016

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newsbriefs An Evening with Bernie Siegel

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n October 18 at 7:30pm at the Ives Concert Hall in Danbury, Bernie Siegel, MD, will present a lecture, entitled The Art of Healing, with a book signing for the new book of the same title immediately following.

Siegel is a nationally acclaimed physician and surgeon, author, speaker and educator who has authored over 30 books and CDs. He also writes newspaper Bernie Siegel columns, hosts support groups and has radio shows on the Healthylife.net and Dreamsvisions7 radio networks.

Tickets for the general public are $22 and $12 for Western Connecticut State University (WCSU) faculty and staff.

Although the event is free for students with a valid WCSU student ID card, they must have a ticket to the event.

The event is sponsored by The Institute for Holistic Health Studies (IHHS) at WCSU with additional sponsorship by Lotus Gardens LLC and Natural Awakenings Fairfield County. The IHHS mission is to provide the university and greater Danbury community with an opportunity to engage in and explore holistic and integrative health through regular programming and instruction.

For more information, visit WCSU.showare.com or BernieSiegelMD.com. Tickets may be purchased online at Tinyurl.com/BernieSiegel. Location: Ives Concert Hall in White Hall, WCSU Midtown campus, Danbury. See ad, back cover.

Pedego Electric Bikes Opens Its First Store in Connecticut

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un rolled into South Norwalk with the opening of the first Pedego Electric Bikes store in Connecticut, the 86th store worldwide.

Owners Mike and Jen Heslin hosted the grand opening with a ribbon cutting featuring appearances by local VIPs on September 1.

The Heslins discovered Pedego while on vacation and are excited to share the pleasure of these chic, powerful electric bikes with area residents and visitors. The grand opening festivities included a ribbon-cutting ceremony, prizes, refreshments, an electric bike group ride, free test rides, rental discounts and more.

“With cruisers, commuters, mountain bikes, folding bikes and even a fat-tire bike that glides through snow, Pedego SoNo is sure to delight the community,” said Pedego Electric Bikes CEO and Co-Founder Don DiCostanzo.

Located in the heart of South Norwalk, Pedego SoNo provides test rides and sales of Pedego electric bikes. Store hours are 10am-6pm Tuesday through Friday, 9am-6pm on Saturday and 10am-5pm on Sunday (closed on Monday).

Pedego Electric Bikes manufactures 10 models, including cruisers, tandems, commuters, fat-tire bikes, mountain bikes, cargo bikes and an electric folding bike.

For information or to arrange a free test ride, visit PedegoSoNo.com, email Info@PedegoSoNo.com or call 203-354-9333. Location: 50 Water St, South Norwalk.

Hunter Healing Hands

Integrative & Intuitive Shamanic Wellness Jessica Hunter

Integrative & Intuitive Healing Sessions

Quality Holistic Healing Education that is Personal, Professional, and Passionate!

Professional Space Clearing & Blessing for Homes, Land or Businesses

Certification & Accredited Programs in Reiki, Crystal Healing, & Shamanic Healing

Drum & Rattle Making Sessions

Shamanic Teacher, Practitioner, Shamanic Medium, Crystal Healing Teacher, Melody Certified Crystal Healing Practitioner, Reiki Master, OM, Circle of the Sacred Earth

Shamanic Healing, Shamanic Mediumship, Melody Crystal Healing, Acupressure, Reiki, Shamanic Spiritual Counseling

Legal Sacred Ceremonies

203-916-8381 | www. hunterhealinghands. com | hunterhealinghands@hotmail. com 6

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Achieve Greater Awareness with Feng Shui

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he Feng Shui Studies Certificate Program with Beth Grace, FSSA, is being offered this fall over four weekends.

In addition to one onsite day, the Beth Grace program will be held October 15-16 in 2016 and January 7-8, February 4-5 and February 25-26 in 2017 (snow make-up days on March 25-26, 2017 if needed).

This course is designed to provide a solid foundation in feng shui and the core principles of Chinese metaphysics. It will enable participants to better understand the environment, activate personal transformation, help others or even continue studies in related disciplines such as Chinese astrology or Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It will help cultivate a greater awareness of alignment to the environment and support health, relationships, prosperity and general well-being.

Requirements to receive the certificate include full class attendance, passing an examination, a home analysis project, one residential and one business case study, and one mentoring session.

Beth Grace is an international feng shui and Chinese metaphysics consultant as well as a professional astrologer.

Tuition for the course is $1,980 ($440 per each two-day session and $220 for the on-site training day). Get a friend to sign up with you and save $150 if full tuition is paid by October 7.

Save $60 or $15 per session if each session is paid 30 days in advance or save $40 ($10 per session) if each session is paid two weeks ahead. Classroom location depends on class size.

To register, email BethGraceFengShui@ yahoo.com and include your name, address, phone number, birth date and time of birth. For more information on Beth Grace, visit BethGraceFengShui.com.

Take Your Business to the Next Level Create the vision and success for yourself and/or your team with the guidance and support of a professional business coach.

Robin Ordan, LCSW

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203-561-8535 www.robinordanlcsw.com Located on the Old Greenwich/Stamford Border

Business Coaching For Pinnacle Success

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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newsbriefs

Going Back to School for Pilates

Wellness Speaker Series Returns to Westport

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reen & Tonic’s Westport Wellness Speaker Series continues in October with three new events. All sessions are free of charge and open to all with no RSVP required.

The 6-7pm series on Thursdays starts with Keep it Movin’: Furnish Your Pain Free Body with Dr. Michael Fortin on October 6. In this seminar, participants learn why movement matters as part of leading a successful and balanced lifestyle, as well as simple ways to keep the body optimized and pain-free.

On October 13, Conquer Cravings will be presented by Jen Dorf, a certified holistic health coach. Learn how mindful eating and living can help conquer cravings, which signal that mind, body and spirit are out of alignment.

It’s Your Hormones, Silly! with Suzy Bessett, a certified personal trainer, will take place on October 20. Approaching her 50th birthday, Bessett will share her lifelong journey with the symptoms of PCOS and, later in life, hypothyroidism. She offers information and fitness suggestion that will be helpful for women of any age.

For more information, visit GreenAndTonic.com or email Hello@GreenandTonic.com.

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he Art and Science of Contrology Certification Program is directed by Simona Cipriani, a second generation Pilates instructor to Joseph Pilates. The program offers three classical Pilates certifications for Pilates enthusiasts: mat, full apparatus and a bridge certification.

The classroom setting is held at Cipriani’s Art of Control Pilates Simona Cipriani studio, which is housed at Synergy Health and Fitness. The wellness facility in Stamford is owned by Simona Cipriani, her husband Dr. Joseph Muscolino and business partner Dr. Vaughn Bowman. Synergy Health and Fitness provides an integrated wellness approach with chiropractic, naturopathic and medical physicians; physical therapists; acupuncturists; massage therapists; yoga instructors; Feldenkrais practitioners; personal trainers; and Pilates instructors on site.

The ASCPCP certification is built upon the principles that Joseph Pilates developed and honed. Cipriani, who taught alongside Romana Kryzanowska, a Joseph Pilates protégé, will keep to the classical principles of Pilates in her teaching.

For further information on tuition arrangements and fees, call 203-973-7262. The October program enrollment is now open with a $100 off early enrollment discount until October 12.

Location: 1177 Summer St, Stamford. See ad, page 10.

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:

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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

Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony at Osteopathic Wellness Center

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r. David L. Johnston and Osteopathic Wellness Center have a new location and a renewed commitment to helping patients recover from pain and injury. Join them for a ribbonDavid Johnston cutting ceremony with the Ridgefield Chamber of Commerce on October 12 at 9:30am. In celebration of the grand re-opening, the center is offering complimentary 30-minute osteopathic sessions by appointment.

The center will also hold an Open House Meet & Greet on October 19 from 6-9pm with several other businesses in the same building. Johnston is a licensed, board-certified expert in osteopathic manual medicine, and craniosacral, holistic and nutritional therapies. He has been practicing in Ridgefield for almost 20 years.

Also located in the same building, The Language School (TheLanguage SchoolGlobal.com) offers practical language classes that are tailored to each student’s age, needs, interests and strengths. Native teachers assure that you understand not only the language, but also the customs, traditions, superstitions, sayings and slang words.

Beverley Rogers opened her law office 15 years ago on September 10, 2001. A litigation attorney, she specializes in the areas of complex litigation, real estate litigation, employment law for employees, wills and estate litigation. Rogers also does transactional work, such as real estate transactions and set-ups of small businesses.

For more information on Osteopathic Wellness Center, visit OsteopathicWellness.net or call 203-438-9915. Location: Osteopathic Wellness Center, 158 Danbury Rd, Ste 8, Ridgefield. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 67.

Victoria F. Shaw, PhD, LPC

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

Intuitive Psychotherapist & Consultant Combining the best of traditional

psychotherapy with intuitive guidance in Combining the best of traditional psychotherapy with working with children, teens and adults. intuitive guidance in working with children, teens and adults.

Offices in Wilton, Westport and Fairfield.

Offices in Wilton, Westport and Fairfield. www.victoriashawpsychotherapy.com

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

High Quality Acupuncture for All All kinds of Pain Women’s Disorders Respiratory Difficulties Chronic Health Conditions Gastrointestinal Problems Anxiety and Stress Cupping, Moxa and Chinese Herbs

Jody Eisemann, L.Ac., NCCAOM

CT Licensed Acupuncturist with 25 years of experience

Call 203-216-2548 for a free consultation Private sessions and affordable small group settings

www.AcupunctureHealingCT.com | Locations in Norwalk, Trumbull, & Southport, CT

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

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 eNaturalAwakenings.com

444 Westport Avenue Norwalk, CT 06851 203-840-1991 October 2016

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newsbriefs Healthier Living Guidance at Bridgeport Resource Fair

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he WorkPlace’s Health Career Academy is hosting a community health fair on October 29 from 11am-3pm at Cesar Batalla School in Bridgeport. Join the 2016 Healthier You Resource Fair to learn more about living well with health screenings, wellness programs, food and nutrition information, fitness tips, health providers, children’s activities and more.

Admission is free to the fair. Additionally, there is no charge for companies or organizations offering healthcare, wellness or nutrition information to participate as vendors in this community event, which is funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Labor.

The WorkPlace, Southwestern Connecticut’s workforce development board, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that helps unemployed people return to work and implements programs to strengthen the workforce for employers. One of its most successful programs has been the Health Career Academy (Workplace.org/HealthCareer-Academy), which provides no-cost training to help low income and long-term unemployed individuals obtain a career in the health care field.

For more information or to become a vendor, visit Workplace.org, email SLewis@Workplace.org or call 203-610-8496. Location: Cesar Batalla School, 606 Howard Ave, Bridgeport.

ROBIN QUEEN FINKELSTEIN Psychospiritual Counselor SlowMedicineTherapist.com 914-218-3113 office

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Don’t watch the clock; do what it does. Keep going. ~Sam Levenson

Stern Wellness Center Celebrates 15 Years of Supporting Self-Healing

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r. Lawrence Stern had operated a traditional chiropractic practice for more than a decade when he decided to expand his focus, attending not only to his patients’ physical symptoms but also to their emotional and spiritual well-being. “I understood that taking care of the whole person was paramount to helping people break through barriers to self-healing,” he says. “So 15 years ago, I founded Stern Lawrence Stern Wellness Center to do just that.”

He built a team of experienced specialists—including a licensed massage therapist, an integrative nutritionist and a Reiki master—to support patients in their journeys to healing. “The environment provides a whole-person approach to wellness,” he says. “It’s a collaborative system of care that promotes life-changing results.” Stern also expanded his own repertoire, earning advanced certification in network spinal analysis, a gentle, intuitive, holistic approach to healing the spine and nervous system.

The goal at Stern Wellness is to unlock the body’s innate ability to heal, he says. “Often, the root cause of pain or unexplainable symptoms stem from disorders of the body’s master communication engine, the nervous system. When there is interference, the body loses its ability to heal. We restore it through the specialties of wellness chiropractic and network spinal analysis, massage therapy, integrative nutrition, Reiki healing and transformational coaching.”

Healing Arts Sanctuary A Feast for the Senses

Stimulate the fire of the mind, cultivate creativity and imagination, and restore the physical and spiritual self.

Crystal Light Therapy s Aromatheraphy s Sound Healing Specialty Massages s Energy Healing s Meditation Facials s Weekend Retreats s Lectures Literary & Interactive Programs A Banquet of opportunities to heal and replenish the physical body and inner self will be at your fingertips; a place to come to stimulate the mind with evening events ranging from talks about health to programs for children and families.

Athena Hall is also available to “like minded” people who are part of the alternative and holistic community for rent by the hour, full or half day, or based on a series of weeks for an ongoing class.

Visit our Specialty Store for a wide selection of products, original art, and jewelry to awaken the senses, inspire, and soothe.

203-586-1172

346 Main St. S s Woodbury, CT 06798 www.naturalsalthealing.com

For more information, visit SternWellnessCenter.com or call 914-763-8000. Schedule a new-client visit by October 31 and mention Natural Awakenings to receive a four-visit comprehensive wellness workup for $195, a $200 discount. Location: Stern Wellness Cente,Orchard Square, 20 North Salem Rd, Cross River, NY. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 69.

New Age & Craft Expo in November

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n November 6 from 10am-5pm, interested participants are invited to come experience a day of spiritual and creative enlightenment at the New Age & Craft Expo in Southbury. The event will feature two rooms of speakers and guided meditations. Spiritual gifts will be available, including meditation CDs, sage, candles, Tibetan singing bowls, crystals, stones and hand-crafted items. Visit with the aura photographer and many intuitive readers that will be present at the expo. Admission is $6 per person.

Some vendor spaces are still available. Contact 203-733-6560 or Cryours87@yahoo.com before October 15 to reserve a table.

For more information, visit Tinyurl.com/NewAgeCraftExpo.

Location: 1284 Strongtown Rd, Southbury. See ad, page 31.

The Center for Natural Medicine

Experts in Science-Based Natural Medicine • Women’s Health • Hormonal Imbalance • Abnormal Paps • Thyroid Disorders • Fertility • Insomnia

• Men’s Health • Cancer Support • Colds and Flus • Anxiety and Depression • Autoimmune Disease • Weight Loss

Dr. Ellen Lewis Dr. Andrew Cummins Dr. Mara Davidson Dr. Nadia Noori Tracy Pardo Alexandra Mason, LMT Beverly Lewis 8 Lincoln Street Westport, CT 06880

p 203.916.4600 f 203.916.4601

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

Dr. Ellen Lewis

Medical Director www.ShalvaClinic.org Info@ShalvaClinic.org

Naturopathic Medicine • Massage Therapy Classes & Workshops

eNaturalAwakenings.com

October 2016

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newsbriefs

NEWLIFE Expo Returns to NYC

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his fall, Happy Rainbows is celebrating its 19th year in business in Sherman and will mark the occasion with an anniversary open house on October 23 from 11am to 3:30pm.

Teas and cakes will be available for sampling.

In addition, readers and reflexologists will be conducting sessions for interested participants and the shop’s usual array of crystals, healing items and beautiful art will be on display.

Happy Rainbows has been serving the holistic health and wellness needs of Litchfield and Fairfield Counties and neighboring New York state since 1997. It offers a relaxing atmosphere, gifts and a plethora of healing products and services. Check hours of operations by phone before making a visit as hours can change according to New England seasons.

EWLIFE Expo, the largest holistic expo on the East Coast, will be back in NYC on October 21-23 at the Hotel Pennsylvania.

This year’s event will feature more than 100 exhibitors and speakers with expertise in subjects like alternative medicine, metaphysics, spirituality, network marketing and cutting-edge environmental products.

In addition to traditional favorites Nutrition, Strange Universe and Vibrational Medicine, this year’s panel discussions will include a new theme, UFOs. Richard Dolan, an author and television personality, is a long-time advocate for government disclosure on the subject. Among the returning speakers will be Gail Thackray, Chris Macklin, Sifu Matthew, Jill Dahne, Tammy Adams, Dr. Robert Sorge and Dr. Jane Goldberg.

“Visitors can come to our natural food dining area to soothe their palates, and come to our massage area where they can bliss out for only a dollar a minute,” says Mark Becker, the expo’s founder and producer. “By taking a weekend out of their lives, they can change their lives forever and meet thousands of people like themselves.”

For more information, visit Facebook.com/ HappyRainbowsShermanCT or call 860-355-4959.

Location: 11 Route 39 N, Ste 4, Sherman.

For full schedule information or to preregister for discounts, visit NewLifeExpo.com. Location: Hotel Pennsylvania, 33rd St and 7th Ave, New York City.

Happy Rainbows Hosts Anniversary Open House

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Change Your Mind & Change Your Life!

Dynamic Therapy for Rapid & Powerful Change Fast, Easy, Natural & Successful – Relief in Minutes!

Hypnosis • Thought Field Therapy • NLP Time Line • Regression Virtual Gastric Band Hypnosis

Call 203-595-0110 for a FREE Consultation

• Fear • Weight Loss • Self Sabotage • Sleep • Motivation

• Smoking • Trauma • Anger • Sports • Success

Diane Bahr-Groth, CHy, TFTdx

1177 High Ridge Road, Stamford, CT | www.MindBodyTransformation.com | 203-595-0110 12

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Monthly Mystical Gathering in Woodbury

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he Ruby Tree in Woodbury holds a monthly Mystical Market, a gathering of psychics, readers, vendors, holistic practitioners, artisans and a growing community of likeminded people. Taking place on the third Sunday of each month, this month’s market will take place on October 16 from 11am to 4pm.

Reiki, massage, personal growth sessions, raffles and more will be offered. Admission is free with individual vendor’s cost varying. Light refreshments will also be available.

The Ruby Tree is a metaphysical shop and healing space in Woodbury. As of the Spring Solstice, the shop is now open Tuesday through Sunday. The studio is open with classes and events and two rooms for healing sessions. Available services include Usui Reiki, Celtic Reiki, clinical nutrition assessments, 21-day whole food cleanses, AromaTouch technique, facial rejuvenation, SpiritFire healing, transformational therapy, spiritual counseling, hypnotherapy and Quantum Success life coaching. Massage services include Swedish, deep tissue, sports, Thai yoga and hot stone techniques.

For more information, visit TheRubyTreeCT.com. Location: The Ruby Tree, 670 Main St S, Sherman Village, Woodbury.

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HEDGE

TR IMMIN G

by TH O M AS

203-790-6741

call today for free estimate

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d a n b u r y

ɲɧɴɩɾ ˪ɪ ɦɨɷɪɩ Deana Paqua, MA, LMT

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

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

ridgefield & new milford ct

www.embodythesacred.net

deana.paqua@gmail.com Ph. 203.994.5045

S&SF NaturalAwakenings_Jan2016_3.5x2_Layout 1 12/17/15 3:52 PM Page

Moss Mountain at

Daphne Dixon Named Wilton Go Green Executive Director

STICKS & STONES FARM A family farm hosting healing, educational, and musical events for the community.

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eg Koellmer, Wilton Go Green’s (WGG) president, has named Daphne Dixon to the newly created position of executive director. Dixon will be taxed with increasing the reach of the organization’s educational forums and programming. In addition to being involved with the organization’s spring festival for six years, Dixon’s experience includes managing the Live Green CT! festivals Daphne Dixon and Yale University and Fairfield University environmental symposiums as well as helping with hundreds of sustainability and environmental events.

Her first order of business will be to lead WGG’s first How Green is Our Town symposium, taking place November 29 at 9am at the Wilton Library. Environmental-focused citizens and town officials, businesses and residents will gather to develop a five-year action plan and shared vision for WGG and the town of Wilton. Seven Generations Ahead’s founder and executive director, Gary Cunene, will address the symposium.

For more information, visit WiltonGoGreen.org.

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October 2016

13

newsbriefs

Awaken Wellness Fair Returns to Tarrytown in October

Holistic Business Cooperative Debuts

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ristin Kunhardt of Indigo Sky World is partnering with Healing Tao Institute’s Jampa Stewart, MSOM, LAc, and Lee Kancher of Right Brain Group to launch Valley Spirit Cooperative in October. The Washington Depot-based holistic cooperative will feature their three unique businesses with a common goal: to contribute to the surrounding community with services, teachings and products that support personal and communal healing by helping to energize wellness, feed the spirit and boost productivity.

Jampa Stewart brings 22 years of acupuncture and Chinese medical practice, along with 44 years of tai chi and qigong experience, to the center. Other healing modalities will include acupressure, massage, shamanic healing and facial rejuvenation. Valley Spirit’s spacious wellness center studio will feature classes and workshops in tai chi and qigong, meditation, yoga, mat Pilates, barre exercise and senior wellness classes led by select area practitioners.

In addition, Valley Spirit’s movement studio will host retreats, seminars, intimate music and performing arts offerings and popup galleries, storytelling, poetry readings and dances. Workshop and classroom space is also available for interested parties.

The retail space at Valley Spirit features Kristin Flagg Kunhardt’s landscape and animal photography with Indigo Sky World heading up the cooperative’s gallery and creative shop.

Graphic arts can bridge the gap between math, science and energy. Lee Michael Kancher of Right Brain Group integrates quality computer programming, branding and design aesthetics with research, organization and business planning.

For more information, go to ValleySpiritCoop.com. Location: 11 Titus Rd, The Shops at Green Hill, Washington Depot. See ad, page 7.

he Awaken Wellness Fair, a body-mind-spirit-green expo, will be held in the grand ballroom of the DoubleTree Hotel in Tarrytown, New York, from 10am to 5pm on October 30. This is the 15th year for the event, which attracts more than 100 exhibitors to locations throughout the Tri-State area.

“The fair has grown from 42 people at our first event in 2002 to hundreds of people in recent years, and it has expanded from one annual event to multiple events, including New York City, Tarrytown, Brooklyn, and Fort Lee, New Jersey. But the goal remains constant: educating the public about the variety of wellness services and products that are available today,” says founder Paula Caracappa.

Among the many experts scheduled to speak at the fair are keynote speakers Roland Comtois, a spiritual medium and the author of And Then There Was Heaven, and Hollister Rand, also a spiritual medium and the author of I’m Not Dead, I’m Different.

Vendors will be on hand to explain and demonstrate a variety of products and services to support a healthy lifestyle, ranging from essential oils and nutritional supplements to organic cleaning products, as well as a wide range of crystals and jewelry.

Intuitive readers and holistic healers are a big part of the expo, Caracappa notes. “This group offers insight through Tarot reading, mediumship, angel reading, numerology, pet readings and many more, for entertainment purposes only. The gifted healers practice reiki, reflexology and energy healing. Healing practices have become more and more mainstream recently, and many people sample a healing practice for the first time at the Awaken Fair.” Discounted appointments can be made with readers and healers online at PPCGroup.FullSlate.com.

To learn more, including how to participate as a vendor, visit AwakenFairs.com. Location: DoubleTree Hotel, 455 S Broadway, Tarrytown, NY.

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healthbriefs

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arry Sherr’s mother would often tell her child that “fish is brain food”. As a practicing nutritionist and owner of Chamomille Natural Foods in Danbury, over the past 38 years Sherr has now read many studies on the benefits of the essential fatty acids EPA and DHA found in fish oils; he discovered that his mother was right. Essential fatty acids are essential and must be taken into the body through diet.

As in everything, there are quality products and inferior ones. The science-based studies using quality oil are numerous. It is important to take a much closer look at the studies that state fish oil is dangerous. An analysis of such studies may reveal faulty science. As an example of faulty science, people in some studies did not even take fish oils as supplements, yet conclusions were drawn about fish oil supplements. Here are some evidence-based conclusions regarding benefits of fish oil: • Cardiovascular: probable in preventing arrhythmias, atherosclerosis, thrombosis, angina, congestive heart failure, hypertension and strokes

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Medical Errors Cause 250,000 Deaths a Year

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new study from the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine reports that preventable medical errors are killing far more people than previously thought. The research estimates that a quarter-million Americans die every year as a result of medical errors, constituting the thirdleading cause of death in the U.S. This is a substantial increase from the 98,000 deaths from medical errors reported in a 1999 study from the Institute of Medicine, now the National Academy of Medicine.

Lead researcher and Professor of Surgery at Johns Hopkins Dr. Martin Makary clarifies that medical errors include mistakes by doctors, along with systemic problems related to communication breakdowns when patients are passed between departments. “It boils down to people dying from the care that they receive, rather than the disease for which they are seeking care,” he observes.

One of the problems highlighted is a lack of public reporting. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not require hospital-error reporting in deaths, which makes it difficult to accumulate related statistics. “The CDC should update reporting requirements for vital statistics so that physicians report whether there was any error that led to a preventable death,” says Makary. “We all know how common it is and how infrequently it’s openly discussed.”

Dr. Frederick van Pelt, with the healthcare consultancy Chartis Group, says that severe injuries resulting from medical errors are also often overlooked. “Some estimates would put this number at 40 times the death rate.”

He indicates that this gets buried in the milieu of expected suffering and pain that care providers are daily exposed to following any surgical procedure.

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October 2016

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

Green Crisis

One in Five Plant Species May Face Extinction A new report from the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, in the UK, has issued the first comprehensive assessment of plant life, the inaugural State of the World’s Plants, and found that one in five plants may be at risk of extinction due to invasive species, disease and changing landscapes.

Researchers also have determined that just 30,000 plant species have a documented use out of hundreds of thousands of known species. These are only the vascular plants that have specialized tissue for sucking up water through their systems.

Over the years, different people and agencies have identified the same plant at both different times and locations, so they may have accumulated multiple names. The Kew researchers determined that each plant in the International Plant Names Index had, on average, 2.7 different species names. By cutting out the duplicates from more than a million different names, the Kew report was able to pare down the known species to 391,000.

In the Arctic, the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, a doomsday bank buried in the side of a mountain, contains more than 800,000 samples representing 5,100 different crops and their relatives.

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EPA Helps Schools Cut Bus Emissions The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is helping finance the replacement or retrofitting of older school buses in public and private school fleets to reduce diesel emissions and improve air quality. Owners can install catalysts and ventilation systems to reduce emissions by up to 25 percent or replace older buses with newer ones that meet the latest highway emission standards. The EPA will pay up to $25,000 each, depending on the size.

“Our kids spend a lot of time on the school bus, and buses spend a lot of time in our neighborhoods and schoolyards. They are a national symbol of safety,” says Janet McCabe, acting assistant administrator for the EPA Office of Air and Radiation. “Significantly improving school bus fleets across the country with retrofits, replacements and idle reduction practices is imperative in meeting the agency’s goal of reducing children’s exposure to air toxins.”

A smile is the light in your window that tells others that there is a caring, sharing person inside. ~Denis Waitley 18

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otal Life Care Center was founded in 1997 by Beth Leas on the premise that a single candle burns brighter in a gathering.

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eventspotlight

5th Annual Stamford Health, Health Wellness & Sports Expo 2016 Billy Blanks Jr. of Shark Tank Fame Headlines

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he 5th Annual Stamford Health, Health Wellness & Sports Expo 2016, presented by WABC-TV, will feature Billy Blanks Jr. of Shark Tank fame and creator and director of Dance It Out as a special guest. The event takes place October 15 (10am-5pm) and 16 (11am-4pm) at Chelsea Piers Connecticut in Stamford. Admission and parking are free.

Blanks Jr. will conduct his dance fitness class at no charge at the Chelsea Piers CT Athletic Club on October 15 from 1-2pm and October 16 from noon-1pm. (To register for

one of the free classes, download the waiver form at HWS-Expos.com and return to TMK Sports & Entertainment to reserve your space. For questions, call 203-531-3047).

Blanks Jr.’s company, Dance It Out, graduated the Shark Tank show to become a fast growing, fitness-based dance program in America, Japan and beyond. He has been featured on ABC, NBC, CNN, MTV, VH1, FOX, So You Think You Can Dance, E!, Entertainment Tonight, Style Network and more. Blanks Jr. has also danced in music videos with Paula Abdul, Madonna and Quincy Jones, among many other credits. In addition, he is an accomplished director and choreographer.

Blanks Jr. will meet and greet visitors at Expo 2016 at the Shark Tank Health Zone, a special attraction featuring As Seen on Shark Tank businesses with health, wellness and sports products. He will also make special appearances at a number of exhibits, including ShopRite, where he will whip up recovery shakes with ShopRite’s Cora Ragaini, RDN, and offer post-workout tips.

The expo will offer information about the new Stamford Hospital, blood pressure screenings, hand hygiene tips and chronic disease risk assessments, fun activities for children, special guests and the latest information, products, services and demos from over 95 exhibitors.

All visitors will receive a Passport For Life to record their health screening results. Those who visit 40 exhibits will receive a complimentary day pass to Chelsea Piers Connecticut. Hourly raffles for healthy prizes will be held and a free ticket for those bringing nonperishable food in addition to a silent auction. These will benefit The Food Bank of Lower Fairfield County.

Sponsors include Stamford Health, WABC-TV; Grade A ShopRite; EBMAS CT Martial Arts; Mountainside; Sacred Heart University; Shaklee: Debbie Miron, independent distributor; Healthcare News; News 12 CT; Stamford Magazine/Moffly Media; Star 99.9; 95.9 Fox; The Advocate/Hearst Media Services; Natural Awakenings Magazine; and Fairfield Parent Magazine.

This event is produced by TMK Sports & Entertainment.

For further information, visit HWS-Expos.com and follow on Twitter @HWS_Expos, Instagram @HWS_Expos and Facebook.com/HWS.Expos. Location: Chelsea Piers Connecticut, 1 Blachley Rd, Stamford. See ad, page 3.

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Meditate the Vote Supports Political Sanity The Meditate the Vote – theCall Real PhilConToday!

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In the midst of the 2016 election campaign, they ask people to step up the quality of citizen debate using Meditate the Vote questions to stimulate more intelligent and inclusive discussions via a variety of social media, including Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and other outlets leading up to national election day on November 8.

Meditate the Vote does not endorse any candidate or political party. It’s a movement to socially engage all ages in a higher-quality and more cohesive way of working together. The Internet will be used to spread the word, with participants making videos in which they say, “I meditate the vote,” and why they do so, sharing feedback from their conversations.

A Pause for Peace app is available to access communications, meditations, videos and the America Meditating radio show. The program is also available on Blog Talk Radio, iTunes, Stitcher Radio, Aha Radio and the PlayerFM app.

Take action at AmericaMeditating.org/ events.meditatethevote.

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October 2016

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Mastering Yoga

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

Ahimsa Yoga and Music Festival

N

ow in its fourth year, The Ahimsa Yoga & Music Festival, held November 4-6, will have a new locale at Hunter Mountain ski resort in New York’s Catskill Mountains. The festival has expanded its programming of yoga, meditation and sacred music to a full weekend this year. The festival, a collaborative effort with Radio Woodstock Live Events (a division of Radio Woodstock in Woodstock, New York), offers inclusive packages for on-site lodging, locally sourced gourmet meals, music, yoga classes and workshops for all levels.

There will be 70 curated workshops and classes taught by more than 40 experienced teachers, including headline teachers Faith Hunter, Alanna Kaivalya, Charles Matkin, Sara DiVello and Mary Dana Abbott. Kirtan and sacred music recording artists Jai Uttal, Donna De Lory and Gaura Vani will be featured throughout the weekend as well. Ahimsa’s real spirit is in incorporating as much live music to each workshop and class as possible.

From studio, one, two and three-bedroom suites to executive and penthouse suites, accommodations offer amenities such as a full kitchen, fireplace, daily housekeeping, concierge services, valet parking and a bell service. Ahimsa also features 10 different music performances and the Vendor Village, where participants may learn and shop for new yoga and health-related products and services.

Weekend, one-day and music only passes are available.

For registration and the full teacher and music line-up, visit AhimsaYogaFestival.com.

Open Sky Offers Two New Yoga Series

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pen Sky Yoga Barn’s (OSYB) Fall 8 Week Series began on September 13, running twice a week for two months until November 1.

Laura Young teaches Tuesdays from 9:30-11am while Cathy Whelehan leads the mixed-level yoga classes on Thursday mornings.

This series draws from the wisdom of two books; the first is the classic The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz. In the second book, True Love, renowned Zen Buddhist monk Thich Naht Hahn offers four key aspects of love described from this tradition and emphasizes that in order to truly love, we must first learn how to be fully present. These sources will help inform, support and guide our exploration of the many ways we may deepen our practices of mindfulness and consciousness through asana, pranayama, meditation and daily life.

Series classes foster commitment to regular practice, establish a sense of connection through community and create a greater possibility for transformation. Series classes are taught progressively, deepening the practice over the weeks so that students can make progress in an appropriate, systematic and evolutionary way. Modifications and options are given for different levels of asana experience. Books can be purchased online through Amazon if interested in following along.

You can sign up for one or both days a week. Missed classes can be made up in any one of Young or Whelehan’s classes at OSYB. For more information, fees and reservations, email CWheels33@mac.com or call 203-648-8023.

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eventspotlight

Lend a Helping Hand; Assume a Yoga Pose!

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oga Reaches Out (YRO), one of the nation’s biggest yoga fundraisers, is coming to Connecticut on October 15 from 9am to 5pm. Join hundreds of yogis from across the state for a joyful day of yoga, community, lively music, a marketplace and more at Insports Centers in Trumbull. The “yogathon” features a team of instructors who will lead participants in sessions throughout the day, including national yoga teacher Dana Flynn and local Connecticut instructors Peg Oliveira, Margot Broom, Elizabeth Crisci, Annie Quagliaroli and Kelvin Young.

YRO CT’s goal this year is to raise more than $150,000 to benefit two local nonprofits: the Sandy Hook Promise, working to end gun violence, and 108 Monkeys, an organization promoting a culture of peace and justice through

yoga. Mark Barden, who lost his son Daniel in the Sandy Hook tragedy and is the co-managing director of Sandy Hook Promise, will be one of the keynote speakers. To date, the national Yoga Reaches Out has donated $1.5 million to children’s charities across the country.

Yoga Reaches Out also raises awareness and funds in advance of the big day. Benefit classes are going on throughout September and October.

YRO is looking for participants, yoga instructors and studios, vendors and fundraising partners to help raise money, plan events and spread the word. Upcoming benefit classes include events for all ages and levels at numerous locations, including family yoga, rooftop yoga, outdoor yoga and more from local studios such as Full of Joy Yoga, Breathing Room Yoga Center, One World Wellness & Yoga Collective and others. Those interested in participating can contact Connecticut YRO Co-Chairs Lani Rosen-Gallagher or Peg Oliveira at YROCT@YogaReachesOut.org.

“I decided to get involved because, as a yogi and someone who works with children, this is why we do yoga to bring the CT yoga community together to raise money for two really incredible kids’ organizations,” says Rosen-Gallagher, who has run a children’s yoga business called Full of Joy Yoga for about 13 years. There is a $25 registration fee; all participants are also encouraged to raise as much money as possible in personal sponsorships beyond the $250 minimum.

To register, visit YogaReachesOut.org.

For information on event sponsorships, contact Melissa Lynott at MLynott@ YogaReachesOut.org. Location: Insports Centers, 29 Trefoil Dr, Trumbull. See ad, page 17.

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October 2016

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calls the “right thing to do” fed more than 41,000 people that day.

Named one of Toyota’s 2016 Mothers of Invention, Ahmad uses the company’s $50,000 grant to boost Copia’s services throughout the U.S. Recently, German and Austrian government officials expressed interest in expanding the service to help feed Syrian refugees in their countries.

Friends Margot McNeeley and Janet Boscarino, in Memphis, Tennessee, looked around for local problems they could fix and took action starting in 2008.

A former retail entreMargot McNeeley preneur, McNeeley

CHANGE MAKERS INSPIRED TO ACT

by Linda Sechrist

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“

urs is not the task of fixing the entire world all at once, but of stretching out to mend the part of the world that is within our reach. Any small, calm thing that one soul can do to help another soul will help immensely. It is not given to us to know which acts, or by whom, will cause the critical mass to tip toward an enduring good,” says Clarissa Pinkola Estés, Ph.D., a world-renowned author and Jungian psychoanalyst specializing in post-trauma counsel.

Thousands of people each day choose to see a world radiating with hope and light, despite ever-present conflict and strife. Their talents and gifts, alliances and collaborations are inspiring a new story that ripples outward into our communities and beyond.

In The Ten Gifts: Find the Personal Peace You’ve Always Wanted Through the Ten Gifts You’ve Always Had, author Robin L. Silverman affirms that everyone can reach within, even in the worst of circumstances, for treasures that can be used to improve the lives of others.

She concludes, “We are not meant to use our gifts simply to survive, but to 24

Fairfield County Edition

satisfy our souls and inspire others to do the same.”

Meeting Basic Needs Komal Ahmad was unaware that her single act of kindness in simply offering to share her lunch with a homeless veteran in 2011 while she was attending the UniKomal Ahmad versity of California, Berkeley, would lead to a multiplying mission to feed America’s hungry. His heartfelt expression of gratitude for his first meal in three days sparked an epiphany: Her school was regularly throwing away thousands of pounds of food while neighbors were going hungry.

Today, Ahmad is the founder and CEO of Copia, an app that matches nonprofits serving in-need veterans, children, women and others with companies that have leftover gourmet food. Following the 2016 Super Bowl, she used Copia’s technology to organize food pickups throughout the San Francisco Bay area. What she

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didn’t want food to go to waste and created the Project Green Fork certification program after learning that 95 percent of restaurant waste can be diverted from landfills. Her nonprofit helps resJanet Boscarino taurants to conserve water and energy, develop recycling and composting systems and switch to biodegradable containers and environmentally friendly cleaning operations.

Boscarino’s experience in business development and sales, combined with her disdain for litter, led her to found the nonprofit Clean Memphis, which began in 2008 with volunteer crews picking up litter. In recent years, the initiative’s community-wide strategy has expanded to involve local governments, businesses, neighborhoods, faith-based organizations and 20 local “sustainable schools”.

In 2017, Project Green Fork will become a part of Clean Memphis.

Throughout two decades of educational activism, John G. Heim’s passion for clean water as a human right John G. Heim has not waned.

The founder and leader of The SWFL Clean Water Movement, headquartered in Fort Myers Beach, Florida, persisted even when many business owners considered him a nuisance, driving off tourists.

As infestations of blue-green algae blooms have reached emergency levels, Heim’s ongoing grassroots campaign to increase awareness of water quality issues that’s backed by social media recently brought him to Washington, D.C., to make his case before Congress.

The nonprofit’s 18,000 members have succeeded in bringing national attention to the thick muck now plaguing both Florida coasts. They’re working to alter nutrient-laden discharges from Lake Okeechobee that send agricultural toxins and rain overflow down the Caloosahatchee and St. Lucie rivers and out into vital estuaries.

Scott Bunn’s Seneca Treehouse Project, launched in 2010, grew from his building background in a family of entrepreneurs to encompass design/build services and education Scott Bunn in eco-housing and ethical living. Bunn’s original Seneca, South Carolina, homestead and acreage includes apprentice learning programs teaching practical skills in cultivating permaculture, growing food, building structures, working with tools and living in an intentional community.

We are a community of possibilities, not a community of problems.

Community exists for the sake of belonging, and takes its identity from the gifts, generosity and accountability of its citizens. We currently have all the resources required to create an alternative future. ~Peter Block, Community: The Structure of Belonging

“For the next six years, our goal is to annually train 50 people that will train 50 more people.

Continuing this exponential growth pattern means the potential for 312 million more Martie Whittiken people living more compatibly and lightly upon the Earth.

We’ve already established collaborations with six other cities around the U.S. that can potentially duplicate our efforts,” says Bunn.

Providing Healthcare Options Martie Whittiken, of Plano, Texas, a board-certified clinical nutritionist and host of the Healthy by Nature nationally syndicated radio show, uses her talents to advocate for health freedom in America. Educating listeners for 19 years, she served as president of the National Nutritional Foods Association during crucial phases of the 1992 to 1994 fight to successfully pass the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act to preserve consumer choices.

The author of The Probiotic Cure also helped found the Texas Health Freedom Coalition to protect citizens’ rights to choose alternative medical treatment in her state. Whittiken says, “My work is a labor of love. I have no interest in becoming famous or well known unless it contributes to getting the job done.”

On a 2006 medical mission to Haiti, Gigi Pomerantz, a licensed nurse practitioner at the Aurora Sinai Medical Center, in Milwaukee, discovered the impact of a lack of clean Gigi Pomerantz water and sanitation as her four-person team treated 1,400 patients for worms, stomach problems, diarrhea and poor appetite. Two years later, she founded Youthaiti, where she serves as executive director.

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newsbriefs

Shamanic Healing Retreat in Redding

The nonprofit helps rural Haitians

Project Yoga Richmond, estabCiudad de las build composting toilets and develop lished in 2010, makes yoga accessible Artes (ISA) durorganic gardens using recycled waste to everyone in the city’s metro region. ing his return trip as fertilizer. It also provides community Thirty yoga teachers lead pay-whatfor the Havana oin shamanic practitioners and hygiene education and reforestation. you-can studio classes that help fund International teachers Deana Paqua and Jessica Everything is aimed at breaking Haiti’s 22 outreach programsHunter for underserved Jazz Festival in for a day of shamanic healing widespread cycle of contamination communities. Healingfor programs are 2014.

President Orbert Davis gratitude, transformation, abuntamford has and disease, and safely convert human designed for needs related todiscovery autism, andBarak Obama’s dance, enlightenment. a new option waste into agricultural fertilizer that’s recovery, seniors, special and announcement This students all-day healing retreat is open of the normalization for those seeking increasing crop productivity and the youths in the court system.

“We also of Cuban/U.S. to anyone and all levels who wish diplomatic relations to look and feel availability of healthy food. provide continuing instructor educaopened up the possibility for a conto learn more about shamanism and their best during Psychotherapist workshops and tinuing CJP/ISA relationship, as well as ™ tion, visiting teachers,shamanic healing practices and techthe holiday Jacqui Bishop and other special seaevents that deepen yoga their 2015 landmark partnered event niques that can be incorporated into son and beyond.

Ridge Road, Deana Paqua Integrative Nutri-7eFit Spa has opened on High practice in our community,” says cowhen 37 ISA students traveled daily life for transformation and posioffering a variety of aesthetic services and non-invasive techtionist Lisa Feiner, founder Dana Walters, who serves as to Chicago to perform Scenes from tive changes. The event will be held at niques to support mind and body wellness.the Anboard open house is co-founders of Sharp of directors vice president.

Life: Cuba at Chicago’s Auditorium the sanctuary at The Redding Center scheduled for November 22 from noon to 7pm.

Again Naturally, in Theatre. Davis promises more such for Meditation on November 14 from ThePlains, regularNew service offerings—which willEnriching be available as White Lives events to come.

Relax while our technology 10am to 5pm. brief demonstration house—include York, believe that sessions during the open As an Emmy Award-winning trumpeter,

All of these individuals represent a . does the work A variety of techniques and teachanti-aging and oxygen facials withBishop oxygen therapy, Torc Plus bio- and co-founder, Jacqui dementia is reverscomposer, educator small percentage of the game-changers Noelectric surgery or invasive procedures. will of bethe incorporated throughout stimulation (also available ible, and no case for targeted muscle activation conductor and artistic ings director actively moving to create an alternathe day, including shamanic journey Infrared Sauna • Micro-dermabrasion with oxygen therapy) and weight loss, infrared sauna for detoxifishould be considChicago Jazz Philharmonic (CJP), tive future. Estés observes, “What is Myolift • Torc • Body Waxing work, shamanic ceremonies, crystal cation, Reiki and the DietMaster personal weight lossDavis program. ered hopeless until Orbert is dedicated to multineeded for dramatic change is an Diet Master • Oxygen Bar • Reiki healing, various spirit medicine healing The Torc factors Plus has been FDA-cleared and is known toHis be collaborative all causative genre projects. accumulation of acts; adding, adding Dermalogica Facials • Oxygen Facialstoning, cellulite techniques forcontinuing. effective muscle tightening, reduction JessicaWe Hunter have beenfortested research in 2012 whileteachings in Cuba and on ashamanic to, adding more, know Teeth Whitening clearing and manifestation practices. and ruled inch loss. and out. Their people-to-people exchange accomthat it does not take everyone on Earth Paquaand andRiver Hunter bring a unique andand informative combinaSave Now with Founder Tracey Scalzi, a long-time Stamford resolve for eliminatpanied resident by fellow musicians to bring justice peace, but only Introductory Prices! tion of shamanic healing and teachings to their gatherings. andcauses business she ing of owner, diseasedecided to open 7eFitSpa Northbecause Dance Chicago’s Artistic Director a small, determined group that will specializes ingive Andean and South American Call 203-356-5822 wanted a new business dedicated to helping people look rather than managFrank Chaves (now retired)Paqua proved to be not up during the first, secondshaor Lisa Feiner manic traditions, while Hunter focuses on North American and feel their best.

The |spa had a soft opening in June butboon. ing symptoms is Road a multifaceted hundredth gale.”

1092 High Ridge Stamford, CT 06905 shamanic traditions. Together, they provide educational and was fully equipment avail-the philharmonic’s based on operational University ofwith California, Los and services It generated 7efitspact1@gmail.com | all www.7efitspa.com inspirational gatherings encompass a variety able in mid-September.

Angeles, research studies and sources Havana Blue live performance in shamanic Linda Sechrist that is a senior staff writer of teachings and a global connection of a variety of 2013 and ignited a weeklong cultural quoted in a Health Advocates Worldfor Natural Awakenings. ConnectShaat Healing practices.

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fabric to the organization. Volunteers sort through the donations and put together kits for the women to sew into the items.

Each item contains a swatch of cloth from their native Africa, and features a tag that tells the story of the woman who sewed it.

The volunteers and refugee women then work together at craft fairs and events to sell the products; each woman receives 50 percent of the sales from the items she created. The group keeps an inventory of products; each woman is encouraged to sew as much as she wants to or can.

Our Woven Community meets at the Burroughs Community Center on Tuesdays from 10am to 2pm to sew. There are currently nine women involved. As women participate in the program and meet goals, they are awarded their own sewing machine so they can sew at home. “Some women gather together to sew and continue the community outside of the center,” says Jane Delworth, director of programming for the Burroughs Community Center, which arranges the craft fairs. The Our Woven Community items are also sold at Hazel Days in Fairfield and Mama Jane’s Global Boutique in Fairfield.

The retailers take no profits from the sales of these items so the organization and women can make more.

BEING THE CHANGE

CREATING AND UPLIFTING COMMUNITY

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“

ever doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it is the only thing that ever has,” American anthropologist Margaret Mead once said. Nowhere is that more true than in communities in Connecticut where small groups of committed citizens are working to change their corner of the world—one group, one idea, one person at a time.

Weaving a New Life for Refugee Women The Burroughs Community Center in Bridgeport has been a cornerstone for helping women since it was built in 1903 as a home for single women working in local factories. The building has stood since the early 1900s and changed with the times to go from housing for single women to housing for elderly women to its current state as the Burroughs Community Center (BurroughSCC.org/ Classes) offering programs, classes and education opportunities.

Tucked into a room in the basement of the community center is a workroom where women create handmade goods like messenger bags, change purses, cosmetics bags, clutches, ties, belts and pillowcases. The women are a part of the Our Woven Community (OWC), a nonprofit group that helps refugee women who have settled into Bridgeport integrate into their new community. When they join

by Sheri Hatfield Our Woven Community, they are taught to sew the handicrafts and sell them at local events, craft fairs and stores to supplement their income. “When refugees arrive into the area, they are typically given about $900 to start their new lives,” says Cynthia Davis, Our Woven Community’s founder. “Our purpose is to find a way to let women have a craft or skill to help them integrate into their new community and earn a supplemental income.”

In doing so, the women also learn English, decision-making, creativity, teamwork and compassion, all while getting to know the local community.

“Some of these women come from terrible situations and suffer from significant PTSD, emotional and language barriers when they arrive. Our Woven Community allows them to work with women who have shared experiences, and perhaps feel compassion for their own situation for the first time,” Davis explains.

Our Woven Community works with donors and volunteers who donate fabric and time to help the refugee women create their handiworks. Companies like Ethan Allen, The Fabric Factory and local designers like Ellen Hyde Phillips donate

A Sanctuary of Healing When Sue Martovich was looking to expand her existing Salt of the Earth healing arts business in Woodbury, she was approached by her landlord to rent space in a healing arts community and she knew it was the right thing to do for her business and her community.

The building—most recently known as the Wayne Pratt house—started as a minister’s home and then became an inn, a tavern and an antique store. Now it is home to The Healing Arts Sanctuary (NaturalSaltHealing.com/Index.Php/ Healing-Arts-Sanctuary), returning to its spiritual roots as a place for healing, community and connection.

“I see Woodbury as the next Rhinebeck, New York,” states Martovich.

“Woodbury is a beautiful community in need of a rebalancing; we intend to shift the balance by bringing in healers and connecting to existing businesses like

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Photo By Dean Kaufman

bed and breakfasts, natural foods stores Mansions” to be built on the land. Inand restaurants. It will be a place known stead, a group of citizens came together for healing and conscious living.” to form The Grace Farms Foundation 7184 and purchased the land. The intention

Together with Inspirit Studio’s Jeanne Street, Martovich will invite was to create a welcoming new space Grace Farms, the River building, perspective from meadows; © Iwan Baan healing arts practitioners of all modaliopen to the public for intentional reflecties to share the space, which celebrattion, so they might enjoy a “type B” ed its grand opening on September 9 experience in a “type A” world. and 10. In addition to Martovich’s salt

Grace Farms (GraceFarms.org) therapies, the main floor space will offocuses on five initiatives: nature, arts, fer crystal light therapy, aromatherapy, justice, community and faith. Nature sound therapy and specialty massages. abounds in both the land and the deThe second floor space will offer Reiki sign. The long driveway snakes through healing and teaching, yoga classes and the land, passing restored horse barns spiritual connections through mediumand coming to the River Building, ship. Martovich and Street operate sepwhich features glass and open areas

Grace Farms, The River Building arate healing arts business but they will so that people can see one another also collaborate on weekend events, from most places in the building. The educational series and retreats to bring X Café features farm-to-table offerings and becomes a respite where people the healing community together.

On the main floor is a large open 0765can come, enjoy a meal and connect gathering space calledFarms, Athenathe Hall.

The building; with one another.

“We often see people Grace River © Dean Kaufman large, open, airy room is to be a combringing their parents from Waveny and munity space for learning, sharing and Brightview to enjoy nature over a cup connecting. Martovich plans to invite of tea and a light meal,” says Grace “like-minded people” to share their Farms, Director Lisa Lynne Kirkpatrick. knowledge with the community. A small

Art is brought to life in a myriad of kitchen, the house’s original summer ways from the design of the buildings to kitchen and another meeting room featur- a 108-foot mural painted by Beatrice X ing dark wood paneling, a cozy fireplace to the weekly Arts for Healing classes. and a bar will be used for smaller groups Many nonprofits use the building free and private parties. The room walks out of charge through space grants. “Space to the backyard that, in the future, may grants allow local nonprofits a place to feature an English garden or labyrinth. bring their mission to life, or have much

“I see this as a center for conneeded office and meeting space,” scious living, a place where people explains Kirkpatrick can ground on Mother Earth and open

The nonprofit aspect of Grace Farms up to higher consciousness,” explains is also directly related to the Justice IniMartovich. By partnering with healers, tiative, which is to disrupt and eradicate educators and a raw foods chef, Marhuman trafficking in Connecticut. Grace tovich and Street see the potential for Farms recently hosted a two-day retreat their new Healing Arts Sanctuary. and training session for Polaris Project caseworkers who are traveling to Mexico Holding Space for to work with survivors of sex trafficking.

Intentional Reflection

It is free for the public to enjoy the Grace Farms began as 80 acres of open grounds and the buildings, and particifarmland that was once an equestrian pate in the passive and active engagefacility. It was scheduled for parceling in ments offered.

2000, with developers envisioning “Mc- “People can come for restoration, 28 Fairfield County Edition natural awakenings

recovery and healing and participate in the way that works best for them,” says Kirkpatrick. “They can play a game of pickup basketball, enjoy a quiet cup of tea or walk the grounds and connect with nature.”

Grace Farms hosts a community dinner the third Friday of every month.

It promotes one of the five areas of focus through content, like nature with Jim Fowler of Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom or a film festival. Tickets are $10 per person and the 160 seats sell out quickly. The schedule of events can be found on the website.

Bringing the Holistic Community Together to Better the Whole When a person has a question about a local business, its reputation and its services, one of the first places they might visit is the local chamber of commerce.

The chamber of commerce is a support network for local businesses and their local community. Since 2006, there has been a little-known Holistic Chamber of Commerce (HCC) organization offering healing and holistic practitioners and businesses the opportunity to connect, learn more about the business of running a healing business and opportunities for collaboration.

The New Haven, Connecticut chapter (HolisticChamberofCommerce. com/CT-New-Haven) of the HCC has been operating since 2014; it is now one of the top five largest chapters in the United States. It is one of three in Connecticut and services communities from Woodbury to Meriden and from Guilford to Fairfield. Its goal is to help create healthy people and businesses and a healthy planet with service businesses that support that goal.

Chapter Co-Presidents Jiyuah Chyan and Lynne Grobsky are Akashic records teachers, healers and businesswomen.

Their shared focus for the New Haven chapter is to help people make choices about natural, organic, traditional and holistic services. Each business in the chapter is vetted through references and research to ensure that the chamber is supporting businesses that actually support the chamber’s purpose.

“Since it’s not always natural for a practitioner or healer to run a business, we help educate them on marketing,

business building and collaboration,” says Grobsky.

“I learned how to do social media, marketing and how to speak about my business publicly to communicate it clearly. It helped me and I want to help others,” explains Chyan, who was a member for two years prior to becoming chapter co-president.

The New Haven chapter meets the second Thursday of every month from 6:30 to 8:30pm; it offers an exchange of services and education from member to member. For example, the October business education topic, How to Use Feng Shui and Chinese Metaphysics to Support Your Business, was presented

by Chamber Member Beth Grace.

“Membership in the HCC helps businesses stand out, provides credibility and delivers professional ways to help grow businesses and gain visibility,” said Chyan. “It’s a movement so that everyone moved forward together,” adds Grobsky in a joint phone interview.

Whether it is helping refugees adapt to a new country by providing a community, creating a community for healing, holding a space for the community to share or supporting and promoting a healing community to the world at large, it is inspiring to know there are small groups of people in our area who are actively changing the world.

Sheri Hatfield is a freelance writer and marketing professional who lives in Shelton with her son. Connect at Sheri@DayDreamerConsulting.com.

Help Yourself by Helping Others

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tudies have shown that volunteering or engaging in philanthropy has positive benefits on mental health. People who donate their time feel more socially connected, which can stave off loneliness and depression. There is also evidence that volunteering can have positive physical impacts as well.

A 2013 Harvard Health Blog cites a Carnegie Mellon University study published in the same year, which states that, “Adults over age 50 who volunteered on a regular basis were less likely to develop high blood pressure than nonvolunteers. High blood pressure is an important indicator of health because it contributes to heart disease, stroke and premature death.”

Many people who want to volunteer feel they have neither the time nor the skills. Most organizations will train volunteers for specific tasks and jobs; others who look for certain skills for their programs will gladly take on volunteers for fundraising and events.

There are many organizations that help link up volunteers with nonprofit organizations who need their help. One national organization is Volunteer Match. People wishing to volunteer their time can visit VolunteerMatch.org and to register and be alerted to opportunities in their area. Select from nonprofit categories, like animals, children and women, advocacy and human rights, board development, and arts and culture. The site will email opportunities from working or helping at one-day events to office work and communications.

Help yourself by helping others to make the world, or your corner of it, a better place for all.

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REAL NEWS THAT MATTERS Independent Media Tell Us the Truth

by Linda Sechrist

I

n virtually all aspects of life, we are influenced consciously or subconsciously by mainstream media messages. Today, six media giants— Comcast, The Walt Disney Company, Twenty-First Century Fox, Time Warner, Viacom and DirecTV—control the vast majority of what we watch on TV and in movies, listen to on the radio and read in books, newspapers and magazines. According to Ben Bagdikian, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of The New Media Monopoly, this handful of conglomerates form a cartel that wields enough influence to affect U.S. politics and define social values.

Thirty years ago, before many mergers and acquisitions, 50 corporations owned nearly all of American media. Today’s infotainment and rhetoric, misrepresented as news, is leading millions to conclude that these colossal powers do not exist to objectively report the truth.

Mainstream Media’s True Colors

Although a recent Gallup Poll reflects Americans’ lack of trust in mainstream media’s reporting of news fully, fairly and accurately, fair reporting was what HarperCollins, a prominent publisher, expected upon the 2016 release of

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New York City holistic psychiatrist Dr. Kelly Brogan’s A Mind of Your Own: The Truth About Depression and How Women Can Heal Their Bodies to Reclaim Their Lives. They were shocked when the book was boycotted.

“The New York Times, Dr. Oz and Good Morning America refused to schedule author interviews or write book reviews. There wasn’t a whisper anywhere on mainstream media about my evidenced-based book on how women can holistically recover from depression without a single prescription. HarperCollins was baffled. I was their first credentialed author who spoke out against pharmaceuticals,” says Brogan.

So Brogan turned to independent outlets, including print, online and social media, her own website, newsletter lists and word-of-mouth. Her work soon broke through into three of the top bestselling book lists: USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly and The New York Times. That example serves as clear proof of the importance and power of independent media to furnish the public helpful and in-depth information on wide-ranging topics that mainstream broadcast media typically only cover in 30- to 60-second blurbs or not at all.

Dr. Mark Hyman, chair of the Institute of Functional Medicine and director of the Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine, learned Brogan’s lesson early on. “Independent media have been crucial in disseminating my life’s work. Given the misinformation being spread by regular news and government channels about weight and health, we deserve to hear the truth about what’s in our food, toxins in our environment and how we can truly heal our bodies,” says Hyman, a nine-time bestselling author.

Independent Voices

Today’s independent media landscape shifts at warp speed. With 24/7 Internet access to websites, both groundbreaking journalism and grassroots perspectives appear in original articles and blogs. Outlets include independent online radio, TV shows, newspapers, filmmakers and “citizen journalists” armed with smart phones instantly transmitting images and updates via YouTube, Facebook and Twitter. From

a growing recognition that such media play a vital role in shaping a more informed and engaged citizenry, more attention is again being paid to the need for real news that matters. Breaking the reign of junk food news generators is the mission of ProjectCensored.org, a media research program at California’s Sonoma State University.

Billions of dollars are spent annually on webinars, podcasts and e-books exploring health and healing, self-help, spiritual enlightenment and creativity, indicating a reading audience with a hunger for deeper wisdom. Since 1973, New Dimensions Radio, co-founded and hosted by Justine Willis Toms, has featured many of the world’s most respected wisdom keepers. “Guests exclaim how refreshing it is to speak in-depth and at length. Mainstream, commercially based media consistently present sound bites on how things are breaking down and not working, without opening thought to constructive visions for a future that benefits all life and the planet,” says Toms.

“Independent media have broken away from dependence on the moneyed interests holding tight reins on the news and information they publish. Because

We in America are the best entertained and least informed society in the world. ~Neil Postman, media theorist and educator we’re listener-supported, public radio is free to explore a wide range of timely and timeless topics,” he says.

Leaning away from one-sided views gives independent media space to expand people’s perspectives and positive expectations for the future. The seven-time Pulitzer Prize-winning Christian Science Monitor international news organization was established in Boston over a century ago to till human thought and thereby improve human lives via an uplifted journalistic standard. “Its quiet insistence for human rights and against tyranny; for generosity and against selfishness; for intelligence, charity, courage, integrity and most of all, for progress and hope—surely that has helped,” remarks John Yemma, current columnist and former editor.

“We work to uncover where

progress is occurring, even though headlines proclaim the contrary.

There are always two sides to a story,” says Susan Hackney, a senior director with the Monitor, which consistently resists the sensational in favor of the meaningful.

Magazines such as Natural Awakenings, Mother Jones, The Optimist and Yes! are likewise stirring up conversations on meaningful issues via larger perspectives with a focus on tangible solutions. They address such areas as the damaging health and environmental effects of genetically engineered food, championed by Jeffrey Smith, founder of the Institute for Responsible Technology.

“Europe could kick genetically modified ingredients (GMO) out of their food supply because their mainstream media covered the health dangers,

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We need our media to be candid, fierce, raw and searingly truthful about the world in which we live, so that we might propel ourselves and humanity, into a brighter future for all.

while U.S. mainstream media ignored them and kept Americans in the dark.

Independent media in the U.S. enable democracy and consumer-inspired transformations of all kinds. Knowledge has organizing power,” advises Smith.

~Lauren Walker, editor, Truth-out.org

Success Stories

With Fran Korten at its helm, the adfree, subscription-supported, nonprofit Yes! is helping to reframe our biggest issues. “Mainstream media, dependent upon advertisers that would have us believe that we can buy happiness, celebrate stories of the rich and powerful, leaving everyone else feeling small and powerless. Independents can help resist such ways of seeing the world, help people see a different path to success and happiness and perceive themselves as change agents. Together, we share engaging stories of how people are carving out new ways of living that hold the hope of a world more in balance with the living Earth and where everyone’s inherent worth and dignity are recognized,” says Korten.

Allan Savory, founder of the Savory Institute and originator of a holistic land management systems approach to recover and preserve sustainable resources, underscores the need for change leaders and independent thinkers. “As we ponder who they might be, we realize it’s not those that discover new, counterintuitive insights, but those that spread the knowledge. The groundbreakers are pioneers like writers, poets, artists, speakers and social networkers. After 50 years of trying to understand the intense institutional resistance to and ridiculing of my work of managing complexity in a simple manner, holistic management is now quickly spreading globally. This is only

due to social networking, independent writers and my TED talk that went viral,” observes Savory.

Laurie McCammon, change leader and author of Enough! How to Liberate Yourself and Remake the World with Just One Word, contracted with independent publisher Red Wheel Weiser to get her message out. “It’s been building awareness of forbidden knowledge—that we each have unrealized potential to affect reality by changing our thoughts. We can nurture a shift in global culture away from an existing way of life that has bred fear, lack and a belief in scarcity,” explains McCammon.

She suggests that to preview a new vision of, “I am enough and have enough,” and, “We are enough and have enough,” we should look to the fertile fringes; small communities of intentional and conscious people actively reinventing society. “Look at what independent media are reporting on; as well as their unprecedented use of new terms such as organic, wellness, sustainability, permaculture, transition town, sharing economy, social responsibility, biomimicry and the butterfly effect,” says McCammon.

The existing worldview, with all of its core assumptions and rules, aims to restrain awakening individual and collective consciousness. McCammon observes, “As long as the ‘old story’ was

told repeatedly by mainstream media with conviction, it could command our attention and make us doubt our inner story. Trusting that the outer world had our own best interests in mind meant that there was no need to turn within.

This is changing. Thanks to farseeing, courageous and strong enough independent media, there’s been an overturning to a more wholesome story of mind-body-spirit, abundance, innovation, collaboration and cooperation.”

Mainstream and independent media coexist like two sides of a coin.

Mainstream media’s talking heads tell us how to act and think while independent media invite us to engage, educate and think for ourselves, dig deeper and take action. Without independent media, we would know little about the benefits of the ever-evolving grassroots movement of holistic, alternative, complementary, integrative and functional medicine.

Nor would we know the truth about climate change; the health advantages of plant-based diets and community gardens; food deserts and nutrition-related illnesses; the prevalence of environmental toxins; signs of spiritual progress; alternative education; and the benefits of eco-villages to people and the planet.

Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Connect at ItsAllAboutWe.com.

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ness about being around the person and a lack of knowledge or confidence about what to say and do. Dying can create a tense situation for all involved. Having an open conversation about death can bring about understanding, compassion and empathy; it can change the experience.

End of Life Doulas

The Art of Dying Well

Bringing Awareness and Meaning to Transition

by Sheri Hatfield

D

eath is not simply the end of living; it is part of living.

Whether it is coming to terms with one’s own death or processing a loved one’s end of life, all humans encounter death. Yet in many places, especially in the United States, death continues to be a relatively taboo subject for most people. We do not speak openly about our own death, and tend to avoid the subject even when someone we know is sick and likely dying. We will talk about everything but death.

Yet it is as death approaches that some people do most of their most conscious living. When a person realizes their death is near, they begin to reflect on their lives, the legacy they will or will not leave behind, making things right with friends and loved ones, and working through the spiritual and emotional aspects of death.

When faced with the imminent death of a loved one— especially after a long illness—family members also begin to process what is next. They may have spent days, weeks or even years caring for the sick and dying; being so focused on the now, they have not thought about what is next. Having a conversation about a loved one’s death before it happens allows them to begin to process their future. Having an open conversation about what their loved one wants, may help to lessen stress, relieve guilt and allow them to create their own plan for living after the death.

People who are in the final stages of life often start to feel useless. Because they are less active, they are treated like children and may feel excluded because they cannot participate in activities like they used to. There is a loss of control and autonomy and a feeling that they are just waiting with nothing else to do. For loved ones, there may be awkward34

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Now there is a group of people who are trained to elevate the conversation around death. They are called end-of-life doulas, or “death doulas”. “Doula” is a Greek word meaning “female servant” or “female who serves”; it is commonly associated with the birth and the beginning of life. Just as a birth doula helps to create a birth plan, an end-of-life doula helps to create a death plan. He or she will work with the dying person and their family to create the end-of-life experience that best suits the patient and the family.

Different than a hospice care worker whose main concern is keeping a patient comfortable during their last days, a death doula helps and guides people through their last days of life. Their role is multi-fold for both the patient and the families. They help guide conversations about what the dying need and want to communicate that to others; they give caregivers and family members much needed rest so that they can be rested and engaged in the last moments. They also help both the dying and the living understand the experience of dying.

While there are many end-of-life doulas now, the first official training program was created by Henry Fersko-Weiss, LCSW, in 2003. At that time, he was a social worker in a hospice center in New York City. Hospice workers used volunteers to visit people in their last days of life, but many did not sit vigil in the very last moments.

“My experience as a hospice social worker showed a need to make the dying experience different,” said FerskoWeiss. “There was no one doing that, being with people who were dying while they were dying. And no one was helping the families understand what was happening with their loved ones as they were dying.”

Death is not pretty. In fact, it can be messy. There are a host of emotions to deal with, questions to ask and be answered, physical needs to attend to and family dynamics to navigate. An end-of-life doula is a guide and brings deeper meaning and a richer experience to the last few months, days and hours of life.

Fersko-Weiss leaned on his knowledge as a social worker to understand the stages of both death and grieving. In speaking to a friend who was a birth doula about his experience, he realized the need for a death doula. He spent a year creating a three-phase process that eventually became the groundwork for the end-of-life doula training and the International End of Life Doula Association (INELDA.org).

This three-phased process is aimed at helping the dying exercise control over their remaining time and how they spend it. It also gives the gifts of control and purpose to the dying, who often feel that they have neither. “It’s not about waiting for the end, it’s about living with purpose and meaning through the end, to the very last breath,” explained Fersko-Weiss.

Life Meaning and Legacy

The first phase works with the dying person to examine the meaning of their life. The doula and patient review what they’ve learned, their values, what they did or did not do well, and what they are leaving behind or hope to leave behind. As they are facing death, what was the meaning of their life? This is a process most people go through naturally; a doula helps them examine and make sense of it. They then create a legacy project to complete prior to their death. This project can be their memories, the lessons they’ve learned or anything that helps them feel as though they’ve left a gift behind for their families that can be treasured. Then the doula and the person dying create a plan for the unfolding of their last days. Much like a birth plan, the death plan lays out their wishes and desires, how they want to be touched and held, how they want to have interactions with others and how they want to set up their space. The plan pays attention to all five senses by incorporating taste, touch, sight, smell and, especially, hearing. “Hearing is the last sense to go,” explains Barbara Slaine, owner of the Liphe Balance Center in Weston and founder of the Alliance for Conscious Transitioning (TheAllianceforConsciousTransitioning.Org). “So we want to ensure that right up to the last breath, we are letting them hear something meaningful to them. We have had women who sing people in to the beyond.”

Slaine notes, “People don’t realize they have options, so they go like lemmings. But being aware of our mortality makes us much more conscious of the present. We have choices. We choose how we bring a life into this world, it only makes sense that we have choices when leaving this world.”

Holding Vigil

The second phase of the process, the vigil, occurs when the person is actively dying, which can happen from two to four hours or up to eight to 10 days. The end-of-life doula or doulas work in shifts over 24-hour periods to ensure that the person is never alone. This provides respite for the caregivers

and families and allows them to be fully present in the last moments of life.

“The process of watching someone die can be traumatic for loved ones,” Fersko-Weiss noted. “End-of-life doulas are trained to know the signs of a person’s last moments. They can then alert loved ones when it is time and explain the physical process that is happening so that it is less frightening.” Having a doula in the home also relieves the fear of what to do if the person dies in the middle of the night or when the caregiver falls asleep.

The vigil is also the time when the doula and the dying can finish any legacy work; the doula can support the dying spiritually and emotionally in addition to bringing in rituals that have meaning to the person and the family. “The U.S. has a very death-phobic culture,” said Slaine. “We are able to bring in intercultural practices and open up the sacred path to death. It can be very powerful for both the dying and the living.” Doulas may do energy work, pray, sing or bring in other practitioners to help both the dying and the living transition to the next phase in life.

Finally, after the passing of the person, the doula meets again with the family to reprocess the active dying experience. They can sort through the various emotions, reframe experiences and give back beautiful and touching memories.

The intention is to bring greater balance to the way survivors begin to grieve. It is during this time that the doula and family review the legacy project, work through traumatic experiences associated with death and talk through the experience as a whole.

By elevating the conversation around death, end-of-life doulas and organizations like the Alliance for Conscious Transitioning are helping people choose how their soul leaves the world to make it a meaningful experience for all involved.

Sheri Hatfield is a freelance writer and marketing professional who lives in Shelton with her son.

Connect at Sheri@DayDreamerConsulting.com.

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October 2016

35

Psychopomp Shamanic Healing Ancient Practices Honor and Transition Spirit

by Jessica Hunter

“I give you this one thought to keep…..I am with you still, I do not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow. I am the diamond glints on snow. I am the sunlight on ripened grain; I am the gentle autumn rain.

When you awake in the morning’s hush, I am the swift, uplifting rush - of quiet birds in circled flight. I am the soft stars that shine at night.

Do not think of me as gone….I am with you still….in each new dawn.”

~ Native American Prayer

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hamanic cultures have been aware for centuries that death is never really death. Indigenous people believe all things have a spirit and the spirit never truly dies but changes form.

They also believe that it may also experience many lifetimes as it is not limited to just one linear time table of one life.

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Spirit is an energetic form of what one truly is; many refer to it as the “Soul”.

Everything is made of energy. According to science and physics, energy cannot be created or destroyed but only transformed. So if everything has a spirit and is made of energy, then it also must transform, as it can never be destroyed.

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Shamans have always known and believed this, long before our modern science and physics theories were conceptualized or proven.

Many shamanic cultures view what we consider the “Soul” as not only a singular energy, but a combination of three energies—body, mind and spirit or a soul cluster. These three energies function together, simultaneously. According to shamanic traditions, our spirit is always connected to source. In Huna (Hawaiian) shamanic traditions, the Kahunas call our spirit piece of the soul cluster, “Aumakua”; this translates to, “the Spirit that hangs over me.” Also known as “the over soul”, it connects us to source, the energetic and the physical. In Huna beliefs, when we inhale our first breath at birth, the spirit soul merges with the physical soul and then the mental soul. When we exhale our last breath at death, the spirit soul separates from the physical and mental. Many shamanic cultures believe in the soul cluster and have variations on how it functions depending on cultural beliefs.

Just as healing and celebration occur when one is born, healing and celebration also takes place when one is transitioning from this life. This takes many different forms in shamanic cultures. Despite the various cultural differences, one of the practices that shamans work with in regards to transitioning spirit is psychopomp healing. Practiced for the last 75,000 years by shamans, this form of healing is still facilitated by many modern shamanic practitioners. In addition to healing, psychopomp is also a form of sacred ceremony used to assist a spirit’s transitioning process. The transitioning can be at the actual time of death for an individual, during a terminal illness, or in the event a spirit is “stuck” and not fully transitioned—which can be due to being attached to an area of land, an object or even a home.

Traditionally in indigenous cultures, many of the psychopomp healings were done with the entire community involved and the shaman facilitating the ceremonial healing as directed by the spirits. When a member of the community was dying, family, friends and community members would gather around the individual with offerings, prayers and gifts. The shaman would

connect with the helping spirits to assist the individual’s spirit in its transition. Although grieving also occurs during this process, there is a major focus on healing and guidance for the spirit of the individual transitioning as well as celebration. Surviving connections know their loved one is going to be with the spirits and that their loved one is still with them, just in another form. In shamanism, working and communicating with spirits is part of the belief system. Surviving members never view the transition as a true loss as they still have access to, and a relationship with, their loved one in spirit long after the physical “death” of the body.

Psychopomp healing can also be facilitated when an individual is suffering from a terminal illness or lingering death. In this case, a shaman may perform multiple healing ceremonies over a period of hours, days or even months depending on the state of the individual’s soul, when it is ready to transition and the process occurring between the physical and spiritual worlds. Ceremony, prayers, offerings and healing are also included in this process. Additionally, psychopomp healing is used to assist spirits who may have not fully transitioned or may be stuck or lost in a state in between the physical and the spirit world, unaware they are deceased. If there was an extreme trauma on an area of land—such as multiple tragic deaths from a war—there may be a high probability that the spirits of individuals who physically died there may still be spiritually attached to the land. Psychopomp healing may be beneficial in this case. A shaman would connect with and identify these spirits, simultaneously working with helping spirits, prayers, ceremony and further shamanic healing techniques to assist in healing the trauma connected to the spirits.

The shaman would also assist the spirits in fully crossing into the spirit world. This is usually a multi-layered process; it may happen quickly or may take an extensive amount of time, healing and ceremonial work. It depends on the state of the spirits and the interaction process during the healing.

Psychopomp work is a very involved form of shamanic healing; it requires extensive advanced shamanic healing training and skills to facilitate it. It is not work to be taken lightly and should never be attempted without professional training as it involves working with souls and the care, respect and healing around their transitioning process. It is highly recommended to seek out a practitioner who is not only professionally trained in psychopomp but well experienced in it for such purposes. Untrained “spirit crossings” not only may harm the souls involved, but the individual attempting it as well.

Psychopomp healing is a labor of love in shamanism, which heals, honors and assists the spirit transformation process. Death never really is death; we may lose our physical body, but we do not lose our spirit. Just like trees shed their leaves in autumn, slumber in winter and return anew in the spring, we may shed our body but we return anew in a different form with different leaves.

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Jessica Hunter is a shamanic practitioner and medium, OM with Circle of the Sacred Earth, certified Reiki master teacher and Melody-certified crystal healing practitioner. She teaches individual crystal classes, and also provides a complete crystal healing practitioner certification program. See ad, page 6. eNaturalAwakenings.com

October 2016

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The Shamanic Path in Modern Times Reconnecting Spirit with Health, Healing and Everyday Life

by Deana Paqua

A

t no other time have we had access to more amazing technology that is designed to make our lives easier, well-informed and efficient.

We have made incredible steps forward in medicine to save and improve lives mainly because of these technological advances. We can replace body parts, grow new cells, restart hearts and target cancerous tumors with laser-like precision. However, even with all of these advances in technology and health care, we have more chronic illness and mental health challenges today— including cancer, multiple sclerosis, chronic fatigue syndrome, immune disorders, anxiety and depression—than we ever have before.

Given that, it is no wonder that with our ongoing societal decline in physical and mental health, many health care practitioners and concerned consumers are looking outside of conventional medicine and returning to the roots of healing. Over the last two to three decades, we have seen increasing interest in all areas of holistic health, including nutrition, yoga, chiropractic, massage, and energy medicine and Eastern techniques such as meditation, 38

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acupuncture, Reiki and the ancient spiritually-based practice of shamanism. Hospitals, schools, corporations, medical clinics, psychotherapy centers, rehabilitation centers, Veterans Administration programs and prisons are offering an array of holistic and integrative health programs to help heal, transform and empower an unwell and overstressed population.

Shamanism—one of the oldest known spiritual and healing arts practice in the world—has offered remedies, ceremonies, hands-on healing, divination and working with spirits on behalf of communities for over 50,000 years. These ancient practices form the foundation of many contemporary complementary and alternative healing modalities and cross over all parts of the globe. The term, “shamanism”, traditionally comes from the earthhonoring spiritual traditions of Siberia; however, “shamanism” and “shamanic practitioner” are now used as general terms to acknowledge those practicing some form of contemporary or indigenous practices that include working directly with helping spirits—such as angels, spirit guides, spirit teachers,

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ancestors and animal guides—to facilitate healing for themselves, clients and communities. The traditional title of “shaman” is one that is typically reserved as a title of respect for those who come from ancient lineages of medicine people and/or who have practiced traditional shamanic techniques successfully for many years to support their communities.

Both in contemporary and indigenous cultures, those called to the shamanic path have often gone through some sort of profound healing from illness, injury, loss, transformation or trauma that has served as a catalyst to reignite their connection to their soul and their spiritual journey. This path of the “wounded healer” can involve many years of self-healing, therapy and treatment; it is followed by training with one or more mentors, teachers or guides to provide the practitioner with more self-awareness, personal responsibility and integrity in following their call to the shamanic way of life. For the shamanic practitioner to provide their services to others effectively for the long term, they must truly “walk their talk” and continue with continuous self-healing and training. This dedication to practice and learning also supports the humility that is necessary on this difficult path of service.

Contemporary shamanic practitioners, when properly trained, practice in a way that supports and empowers each individual client’s own spiritual path, connection and healing journey.

Shamanic practitioners are not gurus, but rather teach and guide their clients and students to become their own best advocate and authority on their personal connection to spirit and their team of spiritual helpers to guide and support them in their health, well-being and everyday lives.

Shamanic practitioners work in conjunction with conventional medicine and other holistic health care practitioners to support a safe, integrative approach to healing for their clients.

Depending on the practitioner and their background, knowledge and training, their work often focuses on bridging the metaphysical and the physical to support their clients’ healing from challenges. They might perform healing practices such as:

• Soul retrieval, which restores vital energy that can be lost after traumatic events.

• Shamanic extraction, which removes energy blocks that can interfere with physical, mental and emotional health and vitality.

• Psychopomp work to assist souls crossing over to the other side.

• Home, land and space clearings and blessings to restore harmony and balance to physical locations by working in partnership with the nature spirits, ancient ancestors, animal spirits and spirits of the land residing there.

“For shamans the world over, illness has always been seen as a spiritual predicament: a loss of soul or a diminishment of essential spiritual energy. If the soul totally vacates the patient, the patient will die.

It follows that, if the shaman can retrieve the lost soul parts, the individual can be restored to harmony and well-being.” ~Sandra Ingerman, Soul Retrieval

Today, shamanic practitioners work in integrative healing arts centers, schools, businesses, medical offices, private practice, large clinics and in their own backyards. They might be trained practitioners of other healing arts—such as nurses, doctors, massage therapists, physical therapists, Reiki practitioners or yoga teachers—and/or those seeking a more holistic, earth-honoring and spiritually based approach to healing.

Practitioners can seek training with local teachers, indigenous medicine people and larger established schools such as the Foundation for Shamanic Studies. Some organizations also offer trips abroad to study and work with indigenous tribes to learn their healing arts and practices in a traditional setting. Those seeking to learn shamanic healing practices are encouraged to seek formal training before attempting to provide this work on behalf of others.

Shamanic practices are thousands of years old. They can provide deep powerful healing to the body and soul of people, land and communities. Now seems to be the time when many are seeking to restore their relationship with nature and spirit to help create a world where dissatisfaction, disease and illness decreases and health, vitality and spiritual fulfillment increases for the benefit of all.

Deana Paqua is a teacher of spiritual and holistic health, shamanic practitioner and teacher, licensed massage therapist, Reiki master and adjunct professor at Western Connecticut State University (WCSU) in Danbury. She has a private practice at Turning Point Healing Arts & Education Center in Ridgefield and teaches a holistic shamanic practitioner program through WCSU’s Institute of Holistic Health Studies.

Connect at EmbodytheSacred.net. See ad, page 13.

practitionerprofile Hunter Healing Hands Jessica Hunter 215 Harbor Ave, Bridgeport 203-916-8381 HunterHealingHands@hotmail.com HunterHealingHands.com Practice summary; healing or teaching services offered: I offer integrative and intuitive healing sessions in shamanic healing, shamanic mediumship, Melody crystal healing, acupressure and Reiki. Additionally, I also offer professional cleansing services for homes, land or businesses; legal sacred ceremonies; and drum and rattle creating sessions. I offer certification training programs in Reiki, crystal healing and shamanic healing.

What initially led you to a shamanic path/how long have you been practicing?

My call to the shamanic path began in my teenage years to help me with the empathic and spirit issues I was experiencing. My own healing process and dealing with my traumas has made me not only trust spirit and energy for healing, but led me to extensive study and formal training in alternative spirit, energetic, crystal and shamanic studies over the last 26 years.

What training and/or certifications do you have?

I am formally trained in Reiki, crystal healing and Melody crystal healing, acupressure, shamanic healing and shamanic mediumship. Shamanism requires years of extensive training and commitment; so ongoing continued education is also part of my commitment to that pathway.

Do you have a specialty or what is your favorite aspect of shamanic work?

One of my favorite and most rewarding aspects of shamanism is soul retrieval and doing clearing work. It is rewarding for me to witness the positive changes and healing, and how the work changes lives and empowers positive changes and healing. I also enjoy creating drums and rattles with clients, and empowering them in creating a sacred connection through using their hearts and hands.

What do you want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about shamanism or your work specifically?

The healing and the magic happens if we are committed to our healing process; shamanic healing presents that opportunity.

I focus on continuing to assist, support and educate individuals in their process, empower them to learn and grow from it, and support them in finding their own connection and process with Spirit to get to the root of their healing. eNaturalAwakenings.com

October 2016

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wisewords

One Doctor’s Journey A Conversation With Edward C. Corsello

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How does the health of your spine directly correlate to your overall health?

atural Awakenings recently discussed with Edward C. Corsello, DC, BCAO, a Stratfordbased chiropractor, what led him to study the Atlas Orthogonal (AO) technique and advanced therapies to reshape the spine and heal spinal decay. Discovery of these techniques changed the course of his own life.

You were a chiropractor for over 12 years when something happened to you that changed you.

Tell us your story.

I’ve suffered with ulcerative colitis since chiropractic school and was in and out of hospitals. I had tried both medical and alternative “cures” for my condition. I spent thousands of dollars “managing” my symptoms with not only medication but also vitamins, nutrition, acupuncture and traditional chiropractic. You name it, I tried it. I was at the point of hopelessness, ready to accept my doctors’ explanation that my disease was “autoimmune”, my body was “attacking itself”, and it was just a case of “bad genes”.

How did you find your way out?

A colleague convinced me to try a chiropractic specialist in the Midwest. When I arrived, he put aside my voluminous medical file and asked me about my spine.

I responded that I had no spinal pain, because at the time I thought that spinal “health” was all about “pain”. “I mean what is the condition of your spine?” he then said. I admitted that I didn’t know as I hadn’t had an X-ray in years. My last X-ray was when I was in a car accident and had pain. I didn’t understand so I asked him what my spine has to do with my colitis.

He answered, “Everything.”

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The brain has within it everything the body needs to be healthy; it speaks to the body through the spine.

When the spine moves out of position, it causes blockages that prevent the brain from communicating to each cell, organ, tissue and system within the body. Where the spine is being choked off, that part of the body will break down. In order for your body to express health, your spine must be healthy. By healing the spine, the nerves can flow at 100 percent, and restoration of health takes place.

What did the chiropractic specialist focus on?

He did a series of tests, including advanced bio-structural X-rays of my spine. He showed me that I had moderate to severe spinal decay in my neck and lower back that was blocking the nerves that run to my colon. By correcting my atlas—the first bone in my neck—through a technique called atlas orthogonal (AO) and repairing my neck and lower spine with advanced therapies, I became symptom free.

How has that experience changed your practice?

I was so impressed with the “miracles” I saw in his office that I decided to expand my practice to offer both AO and advanced therapies to heal the spine. Today, I am one of only two spinal correction specialists and only three AO doctors in the state of Connecticut; people from as far away as New York, Rhode Island, and Delaware come to see me.

I use these powerful techniques that changed my life to treat others who are

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suffering from asthma and allergies, headaches, neck and back pain—often resulting from car accidents or athletic injuries— and sciatica. They also help with autism, scoliosis, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, trigeminal neuralgia, fibromyalgia and ADHD as well as with digestive diseases like Crohn’s disease and colitis. Doing the AO correction in conjunction with advanced therapies to heal the spine, we are able to provide permanent relief to some of the most severe and chronic conditions.

Please share some of the feedback you have received.

A patient of mine for over two years who suffers from Parkinson’s stated that the chiropractic treatments and maintaining a healthy lifestyle have helped her get off 11 medications. Another told me that she was diagnosed with narcolepsy with cataplexy in 2009. She said she has been off medication since two months into treatment with us and has no symptoms of narcolepsy with cataplexy any longer. There are many other stories.

So what do you actually do?

I don’t heal anyone of anything. I perform specific, gentle techniques to remove nerve pressure, and the body responds by healing itself. We get tremendous results. It’s as simple as that!

Many people find they actually save money on their health care expenses by seeing me. An entire week of care in my office costs what you could pay for one visit elsewhere.

What about diet and supplements?

Of course, healthy nutrition is important. However, “life flow”—from the brain to the organs—must work in conjunction with lifestyle. Think of an automobile. If its structure is compromised, you can put the best fuel in it, but it will not run properly. The same is true of the body. Even the best food and vitamins will have only a limited benefit to a body that is breaking down due to a decaying spine.

Edward Corsello, DC, BCAO, is a board-certified Atlas Orthogonist with an office in Stratford. Connect at CorselloClinic.com and 203-381-1800.

Mention this article for a complimentary consultation. See ad, page 7.

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inspiration

Tree-Mendous Love How Trees Care for Each Other

by Melissa Breyer

F

rom learning to communicate to physically caring for each other, the secret lives of trees are wildly deep and complex.

“They can count, learn and remember; nurse sick neighbors; warn each other of danger by sending electrical signals across a fungal network known as the ‘wood wide web’; and keep the ancient stumps of long-felled companions alive for centuries by feeding them a sugar solution through their roots,” reveals Peter Wohlleben, a German forest ranger and author of The Hidden Life of Trees: What They Feel, How They Communicate—Discoveries from a Secret World, released in September.

Upon seeing two soaring beeches in the forest, Wohlleben observes, “These trees are friends. See how the thick branches point away from each other? That’s so they don’t block their

Natural

buddy’s light. Sometimes, pairs are so interconnected at the roots that when one tree dies, the other one dies, too.”

Wohlleben is rekindling a re-imagination of trees even as many people consider their role is only to supply us with oxygen and wood. Using a mix of scientific research and his own observations from studying forestry and working in the forest since 1987, the man who speaks for the trees does so in decidedly anthropomorphic terms.

“Scientific language removes all the emotion, and people don’t understand it anymore. I use a human language.

When I say, ‘Trees suckle their children,’ everyone knows immediately what I mean,” he says.

After years of working for the state forestry administration in Rhineland-Palatinate, and then as a forester managing 3,000 acres of woods near Cologne, he began to understand that contemporary practices were not serving the trees or those that depend on them very well. Artificially spacing out trees ensures that trees get more sunlight and grow faster, but naturalists report that trees exist less like individuals and more as communal beings. By working together in networks and sharing resources, they increase their resistance to potentially damaging influences.

After researching alternative approaches, Wohlleben began implementing some revolutionary concepts. He replaced heavy machinery with horses, stopped using insecticides and let the woods become wilder. The pilot German forest plot went from losing money to posting a profit in two years.

As Dr. Seuss’ tree-loving Lorax says, “I speak for the trees.

I speak for the trees, for the trees have no tongues.”

Melissa Breyer, of Brooklyn, NY, is the editor of Treehugger.com, from which this article was adapted.

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October 2016

41

Increasing Success of the Breastfeeding Dyad Addressing Tongue and Lip Tie Concerns

by Risa Sloves

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s mothers, we have great expectations for parenthood. Many of us have done countless hours of reading; birthing education classes; meet-and-greets to choose the best midwives, doctors, doulas and pediatricians; classes for new nursing moms; research on products; and so much more. Finally, a beautiful baby is born and we feel empowered! We did it, and, if we are lucky, it went according to the “plan” and we hopefully have a healthy and thriving newborn.

Unfortunately, for many moms, especially those who plan to breastfeed, it is often not what they expected. Nursing can be a painful journey that is difficult and frustrating for “the nursing dyad” of mom and baby. Many of the issues causing problems are

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often overlooked and never properly diagnosed even by the most wellmeaning specialists. In the worst of cases, the mom feels she has exhausted all options and may stop nursing altogether. In the best case scenario, she is able to find a team of providers that can work together to help the breastfeeding dyad be successful.

TONGUE TIE

Tongue tie (medically called ankyloglossia) is when the tissue under the tongue—which attaches the tongue to the floor of the mouth—is tighter and thicker than normal; it may extend out farther than normal toward the tip of the tongue. As a result, it has an effect on the tongue’s mobility. Lip ties occur when there is tissue in the midline of

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the lip and it attaches the lip to the gum and prevents normal mobility of the lips and unsuccessful latch. An upper lip tie, known as maxillary, is more commonly problematic than the lower lip tie (mandibular). A cheek tie, or buccal tie, occurs when there are remnants of tissue tethering the cheeks to the gum; it may affect the ability of the infant’s cheeks to move properly and create an abnormal suck and latch.

It is critical to have a thorough oral exam in addition to having someone, such as a pediatric chiropractor, examine the baby while paying particular attention to the baby’s head, neck, spine and oral structure and function.

For trained chiropractors, there are subtle newborn presentations that often are keys to the underlying problem.

For example, when a post-natal mom comes in with her newborn for their first check-up, just observing how the baby is sitting in his/her carseat can give the first clues that something is posturally wrong.

Does the baby hold his/her head tilted or turned to one side? This may be a sign of torticollis due to misaligned joints in the neck or tight muscles. If it is not diagnosed promptly and treated properly, it can affect nursing and even lead to plagiocephaly, which is a flattening or asymmetry in the shape of the head and/or face.

Are the bones of the baby’s head aligned symmetrically or is there a slight overlap of two bones? Does one side appear slightly elevated or flat compared to the other? Does the baby lay flat or do the hips and legs favor one side when resting? Infants, whether delivered vaginally or by Cesarean section, may undergo significant stress that creates these misalignments.

Does the newborn’s chin appear to be set back or recessed in relationship to the face? This may be a sign of a tongue tie because the tongue sits in the floor of the mouth; if it is tethered and restricted in motion, it may be pulling the mandible, or lower jaw, back in its position.

Does the newborn have a blister in the middle of the upper or lower lip?

This may be a sign of a lip tie which, when present, does not allow the lip to flange properly and can cause a poor, shallow latch.

Is the tip of the infant’s tongue heart-shaped instead of rounded? This

may also indicate a tongue tie due to the tethering of the tongue to the floor of the mouth and a short, restricted tongue can prevent an infant from achieving a tight, effective latch.

Simply observing a newborn can give important clues to structure and function of their head, neck, spine and jaw. According to Lawrence Kotlow, DDS, a pediatric dentist, some of the common symptoms of tethered oral tissues in infants include a shallow latch, frequent and unsuccessful attempts at nursing, and colic/reflux/gassiness with a possible enlarged/full belly due to the amount of air being swallowed from a poor latch. Nasal congestion associated with silent reflux; clicking, swallowing air or leaking milk when feeding; and a failure to gain appropriate weight are other signs. Nursing moms often complain of severe breast pain, bleeding/cracked/blanched nipples, clogged ducts and mastitis, and the possible onset of post-partum depression as a result of the frustration and difficulty associated with nursing.

If a nursing mom or her baby is suffering with symptoms such as these, they should be encouraged to have another detailed evaluation by a specially trained professional even if they already were checked. Sometimes these conditions are very subtle and are not easily diagnosed initially; they become more apparent as time passes and new symptoms begin to appear.

As an example, a toddler can nurse well and gain weight successfully, yet

In the best case scenario, she is able to find a team of providers that can work together to help the breastfeeding dyad be successful. when they begin to eat more solid foods, they have difficulties chewing or with speech development. Additionally, tooth development can be affected with a tethered upper lip in an infant who nurses during the night; milk may accumulate between the lip and upper front teeth, which may cause decay. In cases of older children, a significant lip tie can affect proper alignment and spacing of their upper front teeth, which may impact orthodontics.

Like most conditions, the sooner they are diagnosed, the quicker they can undergo treatment if necessary; establishing a good team of practitioners is vitally important. All newborns should be evaluated regardless of whether they are born at home, at a birthing center or in a hospital. Not all babies with tongue and/or lip ties require treatment. However, if a potential problem is present, they should be referred to an appropriately trained specialist such as a pediatric dentist, oral surgeon, ENT or a pediatrician to consider whether

a revision is necessary to improve function. This procedure can often be performed with a laser to significantly reduce bleeding and risk of infection. It generally takes just a few minutes and the baby often latches and nurses better immediately. However, if the baby had issues such as “reflux or colic”—which likely could have been the result of sucking more air in due to an improper latch—it may take a bit longer for them to adapt to their newly acquired mobility and establish better nursing. Moms should then follow up with their international board-certified lactation consultant to make sure that a proper latch and positioning has occurred. They should also see a pediatric chiropractor to ensure that the proper gentle body work is performed to improve head, neck, spinal and oral function by loosening muscles and improving joint mobility. The team will also perform stretches to enhance healing and prevent the tissues from reattaching and ensure that the parents are comfortable in performing these stretches at home.

Dr. Risa Sloves is one of nine chiropractic physicians in Connecticut with a three-year post-doctorate degree and board certification in pediatric and maternity care. She has been in practice for over 27 years with her husband, Dr. Mark Joachim, at their Norwalk office, Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care, P.C. She can be reached at 203-838-1555. See ad, page 41.

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October 2016

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INSPIRED

TABLE

inspiredtable

Harbor Harvest Celebrates First Anniversary Market and Ship Delivery Innovations Continue

by Ariana Rawls Fine

H

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

203-885-4674 44

Fairfield County Edition

arbor Harvest in East Norwalk celebrates its first year anniversary providing farm-to-table local sustainable products on October 22. The market continues to source fresh produce, dairy and meats from farmers and vendors in Connecticut and New York.

In line with their disruptive sustainability mission, co-owners Bob Kunkel and Ernie Marsan are announcing the start of the second phase of their boatbuilding and local delivery service project: the development of an emissions-free, sustainable waterborne transportation system capable of delivering local farm products between food hubs located along the Connecticut and Long Island coasts. The U.S Department of Transportation and Maritime Administration requested that Harbor Harvest enter the American Marine Highway program to seek a regional route designation. In doing so, Harbor Harvest (HarborHarvest.com) would gain access to potential federal grants to support their sustainability effort. The overall goals of the program are to reduce landside congestion for public benefit and increase utilization of U.S. freight and/or passenger transportation.

Working with the Federal Maritime Administration, Long Island Sound has been designated as Marine Highway 295 while the Mid Hudson Valley and Hudson River in New York have been designated as Marine Highway 87. The new Harbor Harvest Marine Highway project will support the family farms in both these areas by delivering products across Long Island Sound on their new hybrid propulsion vessels.

Through Alternative Marine Technologies (AlternativeMarineTech.com), Kunkel’s Stamford-based ship construction and design company, he is creating a lithium-powered, refrigerated boat to travel the newly designated local water highways as a more sustainable and efficient option that cuts down on lengthy land delivery times caused by congestion and longer highway distances.

Wild Carrots, a farm in Litchfield, is the latest local supplier of organic produce introduced to Harbor Harvest shoppers. A sweet tooth can also be satisfied as the store has been chosen by chocolatier Fritz Knipschildt for Chocopologie’s local retail sales.

Location: Harbor Harvest, 7 Cove Ave, Norwalk. See ad, page 51. natural awakenings

consciouseating

A GOOD FOOD FIGHT Keeping Food Out of the Trash Bin

by April Thompson

A

s much as 40 percent of food produced in the U.S. is wasted, even as one in six Americans goes hungry.

Instead of feeding people better, we are feeding the city dump. Of all types of trash, food consumes the most space in our municipal landfills, followed by plastic and paper. Rotting food then releases harmful methane, a greenhouse gas 20 times more potent than carbon dioxide.

While food waste is a big problem, social entrepreneurs see a big opportunity. Around the country, they are working to reduce, recover and rethink discarded food valued at more than $160 billion a year. In the process, they are not only cutting food costs, but also creating jobs and fighting climate change.

University of Maryland College Park alumna Cam Pascual co-founded the nonprofit Food Recovery Network (FRN) after watching hundreds of pounds of food hit the trash in her campus dining hall every night. Pascual and her colleagues mobilized a volunteer network to shuttle leftovers from the university to soup kitchens, donating 200 meals a night to feed the hungry.

In the last five years, FRN has recovered more than 1 million pounds of food from 184 campuses in 42 states, proving that ingenuity and philanthropy can together fight the food waste travesty. “There are two major barriers to recovering leftover food; one is awareness, like helping businesses to understand the laws that protect them from liability,” says Pascual, the organization’s current director of innovation and operations. “The other is the labor involved. Universities are the perfect ecosystem for food recovery because college students have flexible schedules and are community service-minded,

Food waste reduction can be engineered in ways less noticeable to consumers, such as doing away with dining hall trays or using smaller plates. ~Cam Pascual offering a ready supply of volunteers.”

The latest FRN initiative is a certification program to verify that farms and restaurants are engaging in food recovery that includes creating a toolkit to help restaurants safely recover leftover meals.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Department of Agriculture recently set a goal of slashing food waste in half by 2030, with several supporting bills approaching the floor in Congress. The EPA food recovery hierarchy calls for reducing food waste first and foremost, with recovering food to feed people or animals as a fallback and utilizing landfills only as a last resort.

“It’s one thing to set goals, but to realize those reductions in food waste, we have to change our behavior,” says Jonathan Bloom, author of American Wasteland: How America Throws Away Nearly Half of Its Food (and What We Can Do About It). Farms and households are the two largest generators of food waste, according to Bloom, whose blog at WastedFood.com offers dozens of beneficial tips for keeping food out of the trash bin.

One-third of the world’s available food either spoils or gets thrown away before it ever reaches a plate—that’s enough to feed everyone in the world for two months. ~Rockefeller Foundation’s new initiative to show how to cut food waste in half globally

Fighting food waste starts before we go to the grocery.

Bloom recommends consumers organize cupboards to know what’s already in stock, plan meals and stick to the shopping list. Post-purchase, easy tips include serving smaller portions, freezing leftovers and sharing surplus with friends and neighbors.

Bloom’s website fans contribute more ideas like mixing veggie scraps into pet food or making them into soup stock. Using a smaller refrigerator keeps shoppers from bulking up while saving energy costs. The battle against wasted food needs to start at home, where small steps add up to big change.

Connect with freelance writer April Thompson, of Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com. eNaturalAwakenings.com

October 2016

45

Newtown’s Fruit Trail Ripens A Path Toward Global Restoration

by Leslie McLean and Andrew Mangold

I

t’s time to restore the Earth. We need to ask ourselves how we can restore our environment, re-establish natural resources, bring people together and produce food and medicine for others while also having some fun.

Greentek is an organization that performs edible, ecological restoration by conducting healing events on damaged land, bringing the community together in the spirit of world repair.

It not only transforms the land but has a healing impact on all those who

attend. Greentek’s formula is simple: conduct rapid rehabilitation of sites to productivity while healing people in the process. Allow plants and food generated at each site to feed back into the organization as a whole, creating an entire network of sites that use internally generated resources to grow onto further damaged land.

The most recent Greentek initiative has been the installation of the Newtown Fruit Trail in the town in which the organization was founded.

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The trail is a one-mile, paved walking loop in the heart of town, lined with hundreds of fruit trees, nut trees, berry bushes and healing native plants.

For one recent weekend in June, the people of Newtown came together to install this revolutionary project.

The Fruit Trail brings productivity back to the landscape, setting a new precedent for public production. The trail draws on food forest techniques to create a massive edible, ecological planting that provides for the health of the land and the people. The Fruit Trail began in 2012 with a project called the Sustainable Community Farm Park.

As fate would have it, the meeting to secure the Farm Park site was scheduled for December 14, 2012. Sandy Hook Elementary School was just a few miles from the proposed location; needless to say, the meeting never occurred. Like so many other things happening in Newtown at the time, the project was put on hold.

In 2015, Greentek founders began to organize again. Newtown’s old Fairfield Hills campus had been transforming into a public park, including a new, one-mile walking loop that had just been paved. Upon proposal, our project was granted permission to proceed along the trail by each of the public boards, including the Board of Selectmen, the Land Use Department, Parks and Recreation and the Fairfield Hills Authority.

The design was conceived through a public community design studio, which was live for one month in an accessible library to collect the community’s collective visions, inspiration and talent.

The Fruit Trail emphasizes a mixed selection of hardy fruit and nut trees

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that thrive with little care in New England. Species like hawthorn, serviceberry, persimmon and pawpaw bear hefty loads of fruit without pruning or pest issues. The trees are supported by native herbs and wildflowers that then support beneficial insects. These plants form an “understory” that retains moisture, builds soil and suppresses weeds, creating a low-maintenance planting with decreased care and increasing yields.

On the morning of June 11, more than 50 volunteers showed up at Fairfield Hills to install the long-anticipated Newtown Fruit Trail. After a welcoming circle, the design was divided into several small sections, each led by an experienced leader to guide the design to success. Volunteers were assigned to planting, mulching, watering and layout.

Each team started by planting a ceremonial tree together before beginning to plant their section.

The early sketches of the Fruit Trail have begun to come into fruition. The trail is rich with persimmon trees, mulberries and a stand of pawpaw.

Inside the main planting are semi-dwarf fruit trees, such as apples, peaches, medlar and asian pear.

Inside the trees grow rows of berry bushes with currants, gooseberry, aronia and blueberry. Through the plants drape strawberries over a thick bed of mulch and minerals, checkered with thyme and bugle groundcovers and packed with lavender, oregano and sage. A host of native wildflowers support bees and butterflies, from echinacea, black cohosh and bush-honeysuckle to hyssop and ferns.

“The Newtown Fruit Trail grows directly across the road from the local intermediate school. Fifth and sixth graders have direct access to the planting with safe passage from a crossing guard every day after school. The very children who were present at Sandy Hook Elementary will enter the intermediate school in a few years, exactly when our trees are starting to bear fruit. These children will always have a safe, new place of peace in nature, growing alongside our trees at the magical, flowering Fruit Trail,” says Andrew Mangold, Greentek project director.

For more information on the Fruit Trail, visit NewFruitTrail.com. Donations are accepted and volunteers are welcomed. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 65.

Men can starve from a lack of self-realization as much as they can from a lack of bread. ~Richard Wright

SLOW-COOKER THREE-CHEESE ENCHILADA CASSEROLE (Serves 6)

This Mexican-inspired casserole is a modern comfort classic. Slow cooking mellows the heat of the jalapeño peppers considerably. If you want more heat, keep in the seeds from one jalapeño; use the seeds from both peppers to yield a dish with fiery, lingering spice. pinch of freshly grated nutmeg.

INGREDIENTS: 2 yellow onions, diced 3 bell peppers, cored, seeded and diced 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped 2 jalapeño or serrano peppers, seeded finely chopped 2 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained 1/4 pound Neufchâtel (reduced-fat cream cheese), softened 1/2 cup cottage cheese 9 (6-inch) corn tortillas 1 1/2 cup shredded mild cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese • Combine onions, bell peppers, garlic, jalapeños, cumin and salt in a slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for 2 hours. Uncover and continue to cook until most of liquid has evaporated, about 1 hour more. • Transfer 1 cup of the vegetables to a blender. Add tomatoes and blend until smooth.

Set sauce aside. Transfer remaining vegetables to a large bowl and stir in Neufchâtel and cottage cheese, stirring until Neufchâtel is melted. • Pour about 3/4 cup of the sauce into the slow cooker. Cover with 3 tortillas, overlapping as necessary. Top with half of vegetable mixture and 1/2 cup cheddar. Repeat layering with 3 more tortillas, remaining vegetable mixture, 1 cup sauce and 1/2 cup cheddar. Cover with remaining 3 tortillas, sauce and 1/2 cup cheddar. Cover and cook until casserole is very tender and browned around the edges, 5 to 6 hours on low or 2 1/2 to 3 hours on high. Cool, uncovered, for at least 20 minutes before serving.

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October 2016

47

WALKING MEDITATION The Calming and Centering Effects of Labyrinths

by Gina McGalliard

While many of us like to meditate, some can’t sit still. Walking a labyrinth provides an enticing alternative.

A

n archetypal labyrinth gently leads us in a circular path inward toward a center and then back out again. Found in ancient cultures from African, Celtic and Greek to Native American, they became especially popular fixtures in Medieval European churches; one of the most renowned is in France’s Chartres Cathedral.

Depictions of labyrinths have been included in paintings, pottery,

tapestries and in Hopi baskets as a sacred symbol of Mother Earth. Several American tribes saw the pattern as a medicine wheel. Celts may have regarded it as a never-ending knot or circle. While some of the oldest known labyrinths decorate cave walls in Spain, today they grace diverse locations ranging from spas and wellness centers to parks, gardens, university campuses and even prisons.

“Labyrinths can be outdoors or

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indoors. Permanent labyrinths may be made of stones, rocks, bricks or inlaid stones. Temporary labyrinths can be painted on grass or made with all sorts of things for a particular purpose or appropriate to a specific cause,” explains Diane Rudebock, Ed.D., resource vice president and research chair of the Labyrinth Society, in Trumansburg, New York.

“Walking a labyrinth is useful for those that sometimes have a hard time being outwardly still and drawing themselves inward. You must move your body, and because you’re focused on the path while you’re walking it, it’s easier to drop wholly into the journey and let go of all else,” says Anne Bull, of Veriditas, a Petaluma, California, nonprofit that supports new labyrinth designs to suit the spiritual needs of hospitals, schools and retreat centers.

The group also sponsors a worldwide directory at LabyrinthLocator.com.

Individual Approaches

A labyrinth walk typically involves three stages. The first is for releasing extraneous thoughts on the way to the center. Upon arriving in the stillness of that point, the participant opens heart and mind to receive whatever message or wisdom is intended for them. The return path is the integration phase, to make a fresh insight our own.

Participants should approach their walk in different ways: One may have a specific question or intention in mind; another may be open to whatever occurs during their meditation; yet another may repeat a meditative mantra.

One might even choose to bypass the path entirely in order to sit contemplatively at its center. Unlike a maze, it’s impossible to lose our way with the circular path serving as a simple and reliable guide.

Although scientific research on labyrinth meditation has been limited to participant questionnaires, future studies may incorporate the use of functional magnetic resonance imaging technology to measure brain activity and record what individuals experience. Labyrinths located in settings like hospitals and prisons lend themselves to such research, says Rudebock. As a Veriditas-certified labyrinth facilitator, she conducts workshops and observes,

“Walks are unique to each individual and may not produce uniform or replicable results.”

At its core, the experience is about listening to our truest self, away from the cacophony of modern life. “I believe that the world needs places where our souls can be quiet,” remarks Jean Richardson, director of the Kirkridge Retreat and Study Center, in Bangor, Pennsylvania, which includes a sevencircuit labyrinth. “Retreat centers and labyrinths are places where we can listen to our inner heart, feel our inner calling and tap into our own divine nature. I think deep listening is not always valued in a world where we are rewarded for being busy and keeping our schedules full.”

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Nearby Opportunities

Today, labyrinths—indoor, outdoor, natural, urban, secular and religious— are found in or near many communities. Following the lead of California’s Golden Door Spa, in Escondido, which pioneered the use of a labyrinth in a spa setting, many spas now incorporate them in their wellness or mindfulness programs.

Labyrinthine invitations to a mindfulness practice are open to everyone.

“A labyrinth can bridge all beliefs, faiths, religions and walks of life,” says Bull. “You can walk a labyrinth no matter what you believe. Benefits come in walking it with an open mind and open heart.”

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Gina McGalliard is a freelance writer in San Diego, CA. Connect at GinaMcGalliard.com.

"Things do not change; We do."

– Henry David Thoreau

K

Find a Labyrinth LabyrinthLocator.com

Launched in 2004, this World-Wide Labyrinth Locator has been designed to be an easy-to-use database of labyrinths around the world. Locations, pictures and contact details are accessible on the site, along with information about the many types of labyrinths found worldwide.

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October 2016

49

Planet-Friendly and Profitable The Rise of Ecopreneurs

by Avery Mack

W

hether it’s a sideline or full time, flourishing small businesses stimulate the economy. The U.S. Small Business Association found that between 2009 and 2013, companies with fewer than 500 employees accounted for 60 percent of net new jobs. Technology allows new commercial ventures to be launched from home, yielding huge savings in startup costs. Owners have found ways to fulfill needs by leveraging their past job experiences and personal interests.

House and Garden

When the economy faltered in 2008, Dave Marciniak, owner and lead designer at Revolutionary Gardens, in Culpeper, Virginia, offered ecofriendly services. “I focus on a few key points and design to make the outdoors a place where people want to be,” he says.

Even for urbanites, fresh garden herbs are available thanks to ecopreneurs like Andy Avramenko, who created TrendyThing, in New York City.

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greenliving

“The edible plants our bike messengers distribute come from local farmers,” he explains. Basil, parsley, dill, lettuce and other herbs and greens are available for all five boroughs; potted plants arrive fresh weekly via subscription.

In addition to cleaning homes, Debbie Sardone, owner of Speed Cleaning, in Lewisville, Texas, saw an opportunity to manufacture her own green cleaning products. They’re part of a full-line online catalog.

Ryan Riley and his wife, Ashley Spitz, of Los Angeles, own and operate Biz Bagz, dog waste bags made in America from bio-based resins and recycled plastics. He notes the genesis of their idea: “Landfills are anaerobic, so biodegradable bags don’t get the oxygen required to break down. Compostable bags are available, but few places provide composting services. We offer a cleaner alternative.”

Another pet-inspired idea was spawned when Kevin Li, of Manhattan, New York, left his puppy home alone for the first time. He invented an app-operated remote control ball with a camera called PlayDate (Tinyurl.com/ RemoteBallApp).

Personal Care

People- and planet-friendly personal care products address other ongoing customer needs. Nitya Gulati, founder of Sugarloom Cosmetics, in Ashburn, Virginia, specializes in Americanmade, vegan, cruelty- and toxin-free nail polish. She advises, “Look for ‘five-free’ on the label, which means no formaldehyde, dibutyl phthalate, toluene and allergens camphor and formaldehyde resin. Watch out for guanine, made from fish scales, found in glittery polishes. Oleic acid, a thickener, is animal fat. Vibrant reds may contain carmine, made from boiled, crushed beetles.” She warns that products tested by a third party can obscure animal testing during product development.

Amelia Swaggert and Elizabeth Ripps, co-founders of California Scrub Company, in Los Angeles, upcycle coffee grounds into a natural facial scrub. They’ve eliminated plastic at every step of production from sourcing to packaging. They’re also helping to keep the world’s oceans from becoming

plastic soup by supporting the Beat the Microbead campaign.

(BeatTheMicrobead.org/en).

Maintaining a professional look while living green can be a challenge.

OneSavvyMother.com found a stylish, eco-friendly, lightweight and durable tote bag designed by Natalie Therése.

The vegan cork tote is made in Boxford, Massachusetts. Shavings from the bark of the cork oak tree grown in Portugal are transformed into ultrathin sheets to produce cork fabric; the certified organic cotton lining is produced in Korea and China in certified Global Organic Textile Standard and fair trade facilities.

Out and About Mya Zeronis saw a need for healthy food and stepped out of her comfort zone to fulfill it through her extra VEGANza Pgh restaurant and its catering arm, Lean Chef en Route, recognized by Sustainable Pittsburgh.

“We source locally, compost produce scraps, serve meat- and dairy-free menu options, practice food waste management with root-to-stem preparation and maintain energy conservation,” she says. Customers are encouraged to bike to the restaurant; there’s even a bicycle air pump and flat tire repair kit on the premises if emergencies arise.

Shared bikes are a welcome addition at colleges for budget-minded and time-strapped students. Rented by the hour or day, they’re a convenient, healthy and non-polluting way to get around campus. University at Buffalo students can remotely locate, rent and unlock GPS-enabled bikes. At Williams College, in Williamstown, Massachusetts, the Purple Bike Coalition provides free use of bikes and a staffed repair station; a cargo bike helps transport larger objects.

Entrepreneurs are creative by nature; seeing a need and asking, “What if?” Eco-friendly, green-minded entrepreneurs take ideas a step farther, working to ensure the health of consumers and the planet. They succeed as they serve and inspire us all.

Connect with the freelance writer via AveryMack@mindspring.com.

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October 2016

51

petbriefs ​Fall Festival to Benefit Animals

S

The Monthly Naturally Healthy Pet Section Starts Here!

tratford Animal Rescue Society’s 11th Annual Fall Festival will take place on October 9 from 11am to 5pm (October 16 raindate). The festival, held at Paradise Green Park in Stratford, has grown from a small dog walk with a few booths to a day-long event featuring educational speakers, music, entertainment, over 90 people/pet vendors, food, a microchip clinic, a large silent auction, contests, pet adoptions and more. The event is the organization’s largest fundraiser with all proceeds helping to sustain its mission of helping animals throughout most of the year.

The schedule includes a free contests from 2-3:30pm, with prizes for best costume, trick, dog/owner look-a-like, kisser, bark/howl and musical sit. The dog walk registration will be in front of the gazebo from 11am-12:30pm with the dog walk (one mile on Main Street) taking place from 1-2pm. There will be a Whiskey Train concert from 4-5pm as well the silent auction items can also be picked up by winners.

Pam Landry, currently an on-air personality with WXPK-FM “The Peak”, will be joining as mistress of ceremonies. Local pets available for adoption will be on display in the Northshore Animal League mobile adoption unit. A low-cost microchip clinic will be offered for $20 at the Stratford Animal Control booth from 11am-1pm and 2-4pm. Snowflake Pet Center will be offering free pet nail trims all day. Among other shows and booths, the festival announced that Rainforest Reptile Shows will offer a presentation of Reptiles Rock with 10-14 smaller animals.

For information and the schedule, visit STARSfest.org. Location: Paradise Green Park, Stratford.

Two Chances to Support ROAR

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

203-885-4674 or email NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com 52

Fairfield County Edition

ain or shine, come out to celebrate with Ridgefield Operation of Animal Rescue (ROAR) on October 16 from noon4pm for its annual Paws for the Cause dog festival. Bring a blanket or lawn chair to the Ridgefield Recreation Center and spend the afternoon enjoying all kinds of activities, including live music, food, beer/wine, vendors and four-legged fun.

In the doggie fun zone, your dog is the star in an actionpacked agility course. Or try paw painting for a one-of-a-kind masterpiece created by your dog for you to keep. Children’s activities include face painting, a drawing class and flower crowns. Out of the Crate presents The Secret to Happiness Has Fur children’s story at 1pm and Three Things Your Dog Wished You Knew at 3pm. A live police K9 demonstration will be held at 2pm. Other activities include a kissing booth and a haunted house. Tickets purchased by October 1 at ROAR-Ridgefield.org are $10 a person or $20 a family.

They are $15 and $25, respectively, the day of event.

On October 30 at 9am, celebrate Halloween with ROAR’s Very Scary Furry Scurry event in Ridgefield. The Ridgefield Recreation Center’s trail will be used as the track. The walk/run will be two miles in length and costumes for you and your dog are encouraged. Awards will be given for first place runners, first place adult and dog team runners, best dressed adult and dog team, and best dressed overall. Along with the run/walk, there will be other fun activities, including the Kid’s Ding Dong Dash. Kids will zig zag across the field, stopping at four stations to do a “trick or treat”. The day of the event, registration will be $40 for adults with or without dogs. Kids will remain $15. To sign up, visit SignMeUp.com/115502.

For more information, visit ROAR-Ridgefield.org. Location: Ridgefield Recreation Center, 195 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield.

natural awakenings

communityspotlight

Changing the Community, One Animal at a Time

Stratford’s Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic

by Nicole Miale

Wyatt and Selena, for adoption at Nutmeg, are a bonded pair of playful young cats

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ommunity game changing includes making things better for our animal friends as well as for humans and the environment. Stratford’s Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic has been a community leader in this regard for the past four years, providing nearly 18,000 dogs and cats with the opportunity for a healthy life without concern for reproductive issues and positively impacting the national problem of stray pet overpopulation. This is particularly important in a state like Connecticut; while much improved, the state is still working towards more effectively helping the states’ stray and feral animals.

“Most municipal shelters in Connecticut are set up primarily as dog pounds. Private rescues have to handle most cats that come through the shelters.

That’s where we come in; we support the rescue efforts at a low cost. The more

animals that can get done, the sooner they can be adopted and the more the rescue can do for a larger number of homeless animals,” explains Executive Director Clara McCabe.

Nutmeg celebrated its fourth anniversary in August and now averages 30 sterilizations per day. In addition to the surgeries, the clinic offers rabies and distemper vaccinations and other services only at the time of surgery. The Stratford clinic currently operates Monday through Thursday.

“The effect of the clinic on population homelessness is undeniable but difficult to quantify,” McCabe says. But the math is startling even in the abstract; if each animal Nutmeg has altered had been involved in the production of a single additional animal, that means 36,000 additional animals were prevented from potentially entering the sad cycle of homelessness and the experiencing the short, dangerous life of an animal in a feral colony or on the streets.

“We are first and foremost about population control,” she says. She says animals often suffer the same fate as young girls who are kicked out of their home by their parents because they become pregnant; an unaltered animal gets pregnant, the family can’t or doesn’t want to cope with it and mom (and babies) often wind up getting dumped

Final Journey,

either on the street or at a shelter. Nutmeg has been and hopes to continue to play a crucial role in preventing such situations before they happen.

A new initiative that Nutmeg Spay/ Neuter Clinic has launched is a small but growing transport program. McCabe picks up cats and dogs at rescues located throughout the state, currently including New Milford, Meriden and Southbury, and brings them to the Stratford clinic and then returns them post-operation.

The program averages 10-15 animals at a time for each transport with the largest being as high as 30 animals in one transport. The clinic handled six transports in September alone.

Not all the animals who come through Nutmeg are strays or rescues.

“Referrals are mainly by word of mouth and often come from local vets,” McCabe says, which is a welcome change from the clinic’s early years. “People turn to us because of the affordability…cost is many times the reason a spay or neuter is not done,” she explains. “People put it off because of the money without realizing it is an important part of the animal’s veterinary care and well-being.”

Some of the benefits of spaying and neutering can include reducing the risk of certain reproductive organ cancers, hormone-related behavioral issues and inbreeding, among other reasons.

“We’re here to help and there is no longer a reason for someone not to get their animal spayed or neutered. There are always options and we treat every animal that comes though our door as if it were our own.” says McCabe.

Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization. Location: 25 Charles St, Stratford. Connect at NutmegClinic.org or 203-690-1550.

See ad, page 57.

Fur to Feathers Pet Services LLC

( Pet Euthanasia Service )

Kristen Klie, D.V. M. and Associates

( 203 ) 645-5570 www.finaljourneyllc.com

Building Bridges Between Beings

Offering a range of services for four-legged, feathered or scaled pets.

Gwen Gangi

Animal Communicator and Pet Sitter Animal Communication Consultations available by Classes Available phone, in person or at your home. Can work with a Call 203-610-2444 picture, or with your pet. for more information

furtofeatherspets@gmail.com | www.furtofeathers.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

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The more we experience all animals as sentient, intelligent, responsive and loving, the more dramatic the changes in our economy will become. We are collectively creating an economy where everyone profits from doing the right thing. It’s a win-win-win for the companies, the consumers and the animals. It is a matter of making money by doing good so we can do more good. One by one, companies with cruel practices that harm animals and/or the earth will either have to change their ways or be pushed out of the marketplace.

The Role of Animal Communication in the Changing World

Animal Communication and the Humane Economy: Take Steps to Communicate with Animals

by Gwen Gangi

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nimals are good for the economy, especially the humane economy. There is a shift happening now toward an economy that is consciously based on doing good for us, the animals, the earth and making a profit. Never have animals’ well-being had center stage like it does right now.

“Today there’s a fast growing, often surprising, hugely promising and largely unstoppable force for animal welfare; it’s revealing itself in a thousand varying forms. Welcome to the humane economy,” states the introduction of Wayne Pacelle’s The Humane Economy.

Pacelle is the president and CEO of the Humane Society of the United States.

For animal lovers, these are exciting times as the decisions we make affect changes in the marketplace.

“So many of the changes afoot will touch your life and that of the people you know. Indeed, you are—or will be—driving many of these changes, whether it involves the food you eat, the pets you keep, the household products you buy, or the films or the wildlife you watch...We can help shape the 54

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market and accelerate transformational changes for animals throughout the global economy,” explains Paecelle.

In response to ethically conscious consumerism, leading companies are changing their practices surrounding animal welfare. Petsmart, Petco and other large pet supply chains have gone from selling puppy mill puppies to supporting local rescue groups. McDonald’s has declared that they want to see the end of sow confinement in their supply chain. Smithfield is implementing changes to how their sows are kept.

After much diligence, persistence and hard work on the part of the Humane Society, Walmart—which accounts for 25 percent of all grocery sales in the United States—committed to improving the welfare of the farm animals in their supply chain. They even pledged to offer animals freedom from hunger, thirst, discomfort, pain, injury, disease, distress and fear, and the freedom to express their natural behavior. The global market is changing fundamentally for the better; this is being driven in large part by our profound love for animals.

natural awakenings

It is vitally important that we communicate with our animals now more than ever. The fastest way to truly appreciate all that our animals are—and all they have to give and teach us—is to communicate with them. As we reclaim our natural gift of animal communication, our perceptions change.

How we see the world around us changes. As we see things differently, we create more of what we see. The more of us that are consciously creating a world where the well-being of all life matters, the faster the changes to the global marketplace will come. Animal communication is a stepping stone on the way to a humane economy. It is a concrete action that can be taken which will enrich our personal lives, our animals’ lives, our communities and our economy. The ability to talk to and listen to our animals sleeps safely within each one of us. It is simply a matter of reawakening it. It’s enjoyable and not difficult. Through visualizations and trusting our imaginations, we remember how to create an energy bridge between us and an animal; then communication happens naturally.

And, just as naturally, we will each make thousands of decisions every day that contribute to the well-being of animals close to us and halfway around the globe. The time has come to embrace a humane economy; one way to get on the fast track is to take steps to communicate with animals.

Penelope Smith is a pioneer in the field of animal communication. She began teaching animal communication in the 1970s. “We are living in an era

of unprecedented destruction of our environment and other species by the human race. At the same time, growing numbers of people are re-experiencing the spiritual awareness of our innate unity with the rest of creation...Whether we will create a new age, with expanded dimensions of awareness, or planetary chaos where most life forms become extinct, remains to be seen,” states Smith in her 1993 book, Animals: Our Return to Wholeness (titled When Animals Speak in follow-up editions).

Here we are 23 years later with a humane economy that is a developing force to be reckoned with. In her 1982 book, Animal Talk, Smith provided stepby-step instructions on how to communicate with animals and know when they are showing they understand us.

Here is her summary of steps to communicate with animals.

• Quietly observe your animal friend while letting your own mind grow calm, and become open to perceive and receive clearly.

• Visualize something and practice sending the image to specific places, including your animal friend’s body.

• Get your animal friend’s attention; send a “hello” or other message or image.

Imagine your animal friend replying back.

• Ask your animal friend a question and accept whatever communication you receive from your animal companion as an answer.

• Acknowledge the answer.

• Practice with other animals and other questions.

“Opening up to telepathic communication with other species is a path of opening up to who you are as a being; it is a path of self discovery as well as universal connection. Enjoy the journey,” says Smith.

Gwen Gangi, the owner of Monroe-based Fur to Feathers Pet Services, has been an animal communicator all of her life.

Connect with her at FurtoFeathers.com.

See ad, page 53.

Grounding Our Pet’s Spirituality

by Mary Oquendo chakra is located near the base of their tail and runs down their legs to the paws.

It governs their base needs such as survival, food and shelter. If the root chakra is not balanced due to a lack of grounding, it will begin to affect all the other chakras.

Why is grounding connected to your pet’s spirituality?

I

n the wellness model discussed in previous articles, the second key to happiness is spiritually. For animals, spirituality is not connected to religion, but rather to the earth; it’s a pet’s connection with the ground where he makes his spiritual link. The process is called grounding.

When we think of grounding, one train of thought focuses on the mundane and another on spirituality. The mundane concerns the science behind grounding. The National Electric Code defines grounding as, “a conducting connection, whether intentional or accidental, between an electrical circuit or equipment and the earth or to some conducting body that serves in place of the earth.” In other words, to neutralize electricity, connect it to the earth.

Grounding is the removal of a positive charge. Let’s apply this principal to a body.

Positive electrons take the form of free radicals built up in our pets’ bodies from the excess amount of electrical energy we subject them to. This energy— also called electro-magnetic frequency (EMF)—comes from our computers, cell phones, televisions, microwaves and other devices. In addition, stress, allergies and illnesses can positively charge a pet’s body. Direct contact with the ground neutralizes this positive charge because the earth is loaded with a negative charge.

Studies indicate that grounding can reduce inflammation, muscle tension and chronic pain in addition to speeding healing of injuries, protecting the body from EMFs and lowering anxiety.

A pet processes grounding through its root chakra. All animals have a chakra system similar to people. Their root

Grounding allows our pets to fully feel their physical body while engaging in the spiritual world. It allows the pet to connect to his or her own guides and guardians. A pet primarily achieves grounding through paws on the ground, not manmade surfaces.

Other ways to help our pets ground is by: • Adding root vegetables—such as carrots—to their diets.

• Placing red or brown crystals—including red jasper or brown tiger-eye—near their beds. Keep the crystals out of their reach as they can pose a choking hazard if ingested.

• Diffusing sandalwood, oak moss, patchouli, cypress, elemi, rosewood, lavender, rose, geranium or chamomile in a water-based diffuser. If a cat has respiratory illness or disease, forgo this method.

• Misting rooms with sprays made with palo santo or sage. Although they smell wonderful, the cat concerns apply here as well.

• Playing root chakra music throughout the day. The root chakra is associated with the musical note C. There is a large free selection on YouTube or the music can be purchased and downloaded from Amazon. A suggestion is Steven Halpern’s Chakra Suite.

The next time a pet is outside running like a fool, look at his body language and demeanor. See the happiness in his eyes. We should also consider taking off our shoes and joining him.

Mary Oquendo is a Reiki master, advanced crystal master and certified master pet tech pet first aid instructor.

She is the owner of Hands and Paws-Reiki for All. She can be reached at HandsAndPawsReiki.com. See ad, page 51.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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naturalpet

Cat-astrophe How to Slim a Fat Feline

Dennis van de Water/Shutterstock.com

by Sandra Murphy

A

lmost 60 percent of America’s pet cats are overweight, according to a survey by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. Feline obesity can lead to joint pain, hinder self-grooming and make it harder to use the litter box, all resulting in fat cats being left at shelters by frustrated owners.

Chubby kitties also are more prone to osteoarthritis, Type 2 diabetes mellitus, respiratory problems and non-allergic skin conditions. “Potential health problems make overweight cats harder to adopt,” says Deanna Schmidt, with the Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, in Pittsburgh.

“On Fat Cat Tuesdays, we waive the adoption fee for cats 14 pounds and over. We counsel adoptive families and follow up so that ongoing healthy eating and exercise continues to melt away the pounds.”

Experts advise that a house cat should maintain the sleek, fluid motion of a jungle cat. Viewed from above, healthy cats have a distinct waistline, an inward curve between the rib cage and hips. Pick it up and step on the scale. The pet’s weight should comprise between six to 10 pounds of the total.

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“The first time I saw healthy cats, I thought they looked small because I’d become used to seeing fat cats,” recalls Traci Pichette, founder of Pumeli tea and gift boxes, in St. Petersburg, Florida.

She’s not alone in her assessment.

Suggested Solutions

While free-feeding dry food is easier for owners and allows a cat to snack at will, some take advantage and overeat, often from boredom. To help the transition from always-available dry food to mealtime wet food, use kibble as a special treat.

Food puzzles, widely available online or in pet supply stores, will keep Kitty busy during the day. Homemade feeding puzzles work, too; put a small amount of kibble in a cardboard tube or small box, tape the end shut and randomly cut small holes in the sides.

Kitty will have to roll the tube or fit a paw inside to retrieve a treat.

“Free-feeding dry food is comparable to a constant supply of Fritos on our desk,” says Jackson Galaxy, author of Cat Daddy. “As far as the myth that dry food cleans teeth, I ask, do you floss with Melba toast? Dry food leaves plaque. A grain-free, wet food adds needed mois-

natural awakenings

ture and fat to their diet. A cat’s teeth are designed to rip and tear, not crunch.”

“Changing my cat’s food to an all-wet diet slimmed her down to a healthy weight. I hated the smell, but it made sense to me that dry food was just carbs,” says Pichette. “At first, she whined at not having food all the time, but got used to it, and now she can eat treats in moderation. The cool thing is we’re all enjoying her increased energy and playfulness.”

Cats are obligate carnivores, which means their natural diet comprises 90 percent meat and 10 percent vegetable matter. A roaming cat’s native routine is to search for food, hunt, catch and eat, groom and nap. Because each catch is small, they eat frequently.

“There’s still an ancestor cat inside domesticated felines, a ‘raw’ cat that wants to hunt for its food,” explains Galaxy. “We need to play into that thinking and feed at intervals; ideally, every five hours or so, or at least in the morning, after work and about an hourand-a-half before bedtime.”

While the family’s morning and evening schedules mean just a quick scoop of food in the bowl, the third meal should be an interactive one. “A battery-operated toy or waving a laser light around is not play,” says Galaxy.

“Interactive play is not texting with one hand and wiggling the fishing pole toy with the other. You have to get up and move to let the cat search for the toy, watch and wait, then pounce. It engages the animal mentally and physically and brings the raw cat to the surface. When you reach the point of diminishing returns, the pet is tired and it’s time for a meal.” His foundation improves lives of shelter animals, teaching staff to clicker train, entertain and exercise their cats to make them more adoptable.

After an active day, the cat will be ready for bed, syncing its rhythm with the rest of the household. “A full play session satisfies natural instincts and prevents the cat from hunting your ankles as you sleep,” advises Galaxy.

“It’s not a luxury to have a variety of toys; it’s a necessity for having a quality relationship with a healthy cat.”

Connect with freelance writer Sandra Murphy at StLouisFreelanceWriter@ mindspring.com.

petresource guide 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 COMMUNITY CATS PO Box 4380, Stamford CommunityCatsCT@yahoo.com CommunityCatsCT.org DANBURY ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY (DAWS) 147 Grassy Plain St, Bethel • 203-744-3297 FRIENDS OF FELINES INC PO Box 8147, Stamford 203-363-0220 Cats@AdoptAPet.org • AdoptAPet.org LOOKING GLASS ANIMAL RESCUE Ridgefield • LGARinc.org On Facebook, Twitter and Instagram NFSAW 223 State Rt 37, New Fairfield 203-746-2925 • NFSAW.org 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 RIDGEFIELD OPERATION FOR ANIMAL RESCUE (ROAR) 45 South St, Ridgefield 203-438-0158 • ROAR-Ridgefield.org STRAYS AND OTHERS PO Box 473, New Canaan 203-966-6556 • StraysAndOthers@hotmail.com

HOLISTIC MOBILE GROOMING MARY OQUENDO

203-994-5308 MaryOquendo.com Mary@PawsitivelyPretty.com Pet grooming in a relaxed one-onone environment in your driveway by a leader in the holistic grooming industry. Mary also offers Reiki and crystal therapy for your beloved pets.

TAILS OF COURAGE 1 Pembroke Rd, Danbury 877-63-(TAILS) • TailsOfCourage.org WESTPORT ANIMAL SHELTER ADVOCATES (WASA) 1 Tower Ridge, Westport 203-557-0361 • WestportWASA.org

VETERINARY SERVICES

ANIMAL COMMUNICATION/ PET SITTING GWEN GANGI

Fur to Feathers Pet Services Monroe • 203-610-2444 (call or text) FurToFeathers.com FurtoFeathersPets@gmail.com Gwen Gangi has been an animal communicator all her life and has been doing consultations for the past 23 years. Practical for any situation, you enter into a 3-way conversation to get and give information needed.

Consultations done over the phone or in person, including home visits.Workshops on animal communication available. See ad, page 53.

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 during the spay/ neuter appointment. Nutmeg honors state spay/ neuter vouchers at face value from adopted shelter pets and qualified low-income families and offers further low-cost incentives to nonprofit rescue groups. Pit bulls and mixes are welcome at an even more reduced rate, and the clinic offers spay/neuter and vaccine discounts for feral cats. See ad, page 57.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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calendarofevents Magazine calendar events must be received by October 12 (for November 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.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1

1 Day Meditation Retreat – 9:30am-4pm. First Saturday of the month. Silent session allows the mind more time to drop daily thoughts and develop deeper levels of awareness of our body, mind, thoughts and feeling. Bring a bag lunch. By donation. Redding Center for Mindfulness & Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. Info@ ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org.

Reiki 1st Degree Workshop – 9:30am-5:30pm.

With Gigi Benanti. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki master (20 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and 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.

Spiritual Psychic and Healing Fair – Noon-5pm.

Gifted and caring intuitives and healers available for readings and healing sessions. All are welcome.

Sessions approx. 25 mins. Appointments available, walk-ins welcome. $45 and up for readings, $30 for healing. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich.

My10Cats@optonline.net. AlbertsonChurch.org.

Chair Yoga Workshop – 1-2:15pm. With MarieAnne Gajdosik. Experience the many benefits of yoga while seated in a chair or standing using one for support. Ideal for those challenged by age, health or mobility. $21. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@ NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2

The Blessing Of The Animals - A Special Service – 11am-12:15pm. All welcome. Dogs leashed and other animals in a carrier or cage. Photographs of animals will be blessed. Free. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich.

AlbertsonChurch@gmail.com. AlbertsonChurch.org.

1770 House Tour and Kombucha Sampling – 2-3:30pm. Materials included. $15 per person.

Location provided at registration, Woodbury.

860-354-4881. ColonialGoodWife@gmail.com.

ColonialGoodwife.com.

The Seven Creative Planets – 3:30-5:30pm. With Linda Fiske. Learn the significance of the number seven, what your planetary energies are and how to apply this practical wisdom for your highest and best. $35/before, $40/day of. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-938-7092.

Info@NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4

Tarot - 8 Week Course – 7-9pm. 10/4, 10/11, 10/18, 11/1, 11/8. Learn to use the ancient wisdom of the Tarot to help yourself and others. Card meanings and interpretations. Using your intuition to discern a story. $50/per class. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich.

203-344-9311.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5

Healing Circle – 8-8:45pm. With Linda Fiske. Join a guided mantra and breath meditation class to promote healing. Come pray for yourself and others. $5. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com.

NaamYogaCT.com.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 6

Sugar Blues Workshop – 7:30-8:30pm. Do you crave sweets and feel like sugar is getting the best of you? Join us to discuss sugar cravings at this workshop. Donations of sugary foods, such as honey, stevia, maple syrup, etc, will be collected for the Open Door Shelter. Free. Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7

Reiki Level 1 Workshop – 10am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki master (20 years). Includes latest info.

Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. 2 manuals and certificate. $125. Angelic Healing Center for Reiki, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk.

203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net.

AngelHealReiki.com.

Shamanic Journeying Class – 7-9pm. 10/7, 10/14, 10/28. With Rocio La Rosa. A way of communicating with your inner or spirit self and retrieving information. Used for the purposes of divination, personal healing and to meet your power animal or spirit guides. $40/each journey. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich.

203-344-9311.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8

Women’s Empowerment Workshop – 1:30-3:30pm.

With Nina Antolino. Safe and supportive space to

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natural awakenings

markyourcalendar NEW AGE & CRAFTS EXPO November 6 • 10am-5pm Come Experience a Day of Both Spiritual & Creative Enlightenment!

• Angel Card, Past Life & Intuitive Readers • Aura Photos • Crystals • 2 Rooms of Dynamic Speakers and Guided Meditations • Unique Crafters and Jewelers • Reiki & Massage • Spiritual Vendors to Uplift your Heart & Soul • and more...

Crowne Plaza Hotel Strongtown Rd, RT 188, Southbury • I84, Exit 16 Info: CryOurs87@yahoo.com 203-733-6560 Some space still available discover, empower and grow. Integration of yoga, creative movement, meditation, journaling, affirmations, visualizations. Pre-registration required. $45.

LifePath Yoga & Wellness, 430 Main Ave, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-354-7070. Nina@LifePathYoga.net.

LifePathYoga.net.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9

Shapeshift to Happiness Anytime – 1-3pm.

By Alexandra Leclere. Shapeshifting carries us from an unpleasant state of mind to a better place.

Learn to access tools, bring confidence to spiritual development and empower you to a state of joy.

All levels welcome. $25. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich.

AlbertsonChurch@gmail.com. AlbertsonChurch.org.

The Conversation — 2-4pm. Monthly conversation on various topics regarding life, death and end-oflife options. Alliance for Conscious Transitioning @ The Liphe Balance Center, 36 Michaels Way, Weston. 203-556-9521. Info@AllianceFCT.com.

AllianceFCT.com.

Restorative Yoga with Tibetan Singing Bowls – 4:30-6:30pm. With Marie-Anne Gajdosik and Judy Vuozzo. Revitalize, heal, and renew your body, mind and spirit. This is a practice to experience deep rest and healing. $35/before, $40/day of. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com.

NaamYogaCT.com.

markyourcalendar YOGA TEACHER TRAINING At Western CT ST Univ.

Fridays • 9am-5:30pm October 7-April 21 Lotus Gardens is a Registered Yoga Alliance Yoga School since 2001 Join our 375 graduates in sharing the Benefits & Gifts Yoga Brings!

Call/Text 203-837-0122 LotusGardensYoga.com

markyourcalendar NEWLIFE EXPO-NYC Fri-Sun, October 21-23 The largest holistic expo on the east coast is back with over 100 exhibitors and speakers on alternative medicine, metaphysics, spirituality, network marketing businesses and cutting edge environmental products. Panels on nutrition, strange universe, vibrational medicine and UFOs. Speakers include Richard Dolan, Gail Thackray, Chris Macklin, Sifu Matthew, Jill Dahne, Tammy Adams, Dr. Robert Sorge, and Dr. Jane Goldberg.

Hotel Pennsylvania 33rd St. and 7th Ave., NYC For schedule or to pre-register for discounts, visit NewLifeExpo.com

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 12

Wise Woman Wednesday - Herbal Oils! – 6:30-8:30pm. Work with herbal infused oils for the body and spirit. Learn to infuse your own oils for health and beauty. Take home oil included. $25/ pre registration, $30/at the door. Twin Star Herbal Education, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 203-4602854. BekahTwinStar@gmail.com. TwinStarTribe. com/events.

Meeting for Living with Cancer – 7-8pm. Join us for an evening of understanding, support, let your voice be heard by others who understand and want to learn from those who are open minded and on the same journey as you. Free. Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 13

Make Your Own Smudge Sticks – 7-9pm.

Smudging is performed to correct the energy in a home, office, object, or even a person. This is accomplished by burning herbs in a focused, intentional way to cleanse out negative energy. $20, materials included. The Grounded Goodwife, location provided at registration, Woodbury.

860-354-4881. GroundedGoodWife@yahoo.com.

GroundedHolisticWellness.com.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15

Annual Gem and Mineral Show – 10/15: 9:30am5pm. 10/16: 10am-4pm. Show/sale featuring gems, jewelry, mineral specimens, crystals, fossils and more. There are displays and hands-on educational exhibits and free games and activities for the kids. $5/adults, $4/seniors, Free/kids under 12 and Scouts in uniform. Beals Community Center, 240 Stafford Ave, Bristol. BristolGem@hotmail.com.

BristolGem.org.

5th Annual Stamford Health: Health Wellness & Sports Expo 2016 Presented by WABC-TV – 10/15: 10am-5pm. 10/16: 11am-4pm. Feature information about the new Stamford Hospital; health screenings, children’s activities, special guests, over 100 exhibitors and much more. Admission and parking are free. Chelsea Piers CT, 1 Blachley Rd, Stamford. 203-531-3047. Tmksande@aol.com.

HWS-Expos.com.

Sing From Your Heart: Free Your Voice, Uplift The Spirit – 2:30-6pm. Vocal techniques, harmony and deep listening, along with mindfulness, meditation and sound healing practices. No experience necessary. $35/before 10/12, $45/after or at door. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Rt 6, Bethel.

203-730-YOGA. Gloria@YogaSpace-CT.com.

YogaSpace-CT.com.

Despacho : Mandala Making Ceremony – 3-5pm.With Rocio La Rosa. Powerful offerings to Mother Earth, Mandalas bring balance back to the individual or community. $60. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich.

203-344-9311.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16

Soul Crossing Over Workshop – 1-3pm. With Jean Mandeville. Class to teach you what to do and how to recognize when encountered by a soul who is earthbound and needs assistance to fully cross over to their loved ones in spirit. $35. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. AlbertsonChurch@gmail.com.

AlbertsonChurch.org.

Full Moon Meditation – 7-8pm. Full Moon Mediation and Manifestation. $20. Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

Full Moon Celebration – 7-8:15pm. With Regina Synder. Bring your mental, emotional and physical bodies into balance. Let go of unhealthy patterns, sending healing to places in need and opening yourself to receive Divine Love. $17 or class pack.

Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com.

NaamYogaCT.com.

markyourcalendar SUNRAVEN

THE HOME OF SLOW MEDICINE SunRaven Open House & Harvest Festival Saturday, 10/22 • 10am-4pm Spend a beautiful day focusing on your holistic health and wellness!

SunRaven Garden Workshop on Canning and Fermenting (Preserving the Harvest) Sunday, 10/23 • 10am-Noon Learn techniques so you can enjoy the summer’s bounty even in the winter months. $30 Slow Medicine for Men - A Men’s Group Monday, 10/24 Cultivating deep and meaningful relationships with other conscious men. $30 Slow Medicine Women’s Wisdom Group Every Wednesday and Friday Supporting each other by recognizing and embracing one’s full authentic beings, together nurturing our highest potential. $30 Please call to register for all gatherings: 914-218-3113 SunRaven: 501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY SlowMedicineTherapist.com

MONDAY, OCTOBER 17

4T’s Prosperity Program – 7pm. From 10/17/161/17/17. 12-week, church facilitated, spiritual program dedicated to the idea of living an abundant life: free of the feeling of fear and insecurity, free of thoughts of lack and limitation. Centered in the abundance of God. Join by 10/24. $55 for materials. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, Norwalk.

203.855.7922. Office@UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

See What Planting A Seed Can Accomplish

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19

Shamanic Drumming – 7:30-8:30pm. With Doug.

Class focused on healing and manifesting positive outcomes while utilizing the energy of the current season. Guided shamanic journey, and one guided meditation connected by a shared intention. Free (donations accepted). Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21

Bliss Out! Dance to Live Drumming – 7-8:30pm.

With Jojo. Find your tribe. Open Sky Yoga Barn, 95 Cross Hwy, Redding. Keane.Jojo@gmail.com.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22

Acro Yoga – 2-4pm. With Charlie and Maisah.

AcroYoga invites you to make exciting discoveries, and working in partnerships and groups throughout this series will help us to support ourselves and each other as we play with our boundaries and realize our potential. All levels welcome. $45/each class. $125/ full series. Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

Start with one ad in a Natural Awakenings magazine watch your campaign grow to the size of a national forest.

Natural Awakenings is published locally across the nation in over 90 markets, enabling you to reach your target audience with multi-market and multimedia campaigns. Together we will create the ideal package for all of your marketing needs.

Your Healthy Lifestyle Multimedia Resource in Print, Online and Mobile

FOR RESULTS

Call Pat McGroder

704-657-3886

eNaturalAwakenings.com

October 2016

59

markyourcalendar CELEBRATING LIFE AND BEYOND

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 23

The Alliance For Conscious Transitioning Presents:

2017 Astrological View – 1-3pm. With Patricia Mellman, astrologer. Navigate your natal birth chart and gain insight and tools to understand and utilize the energies that 2017 will hold for you. All welcome. $25. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich.

AlbertsonChurch@gmail.com. AlbertsonChurch.org.

End-of-Life ‘The Conversation” Join our monthly discussions on various topics regarding life, death and end-of-life care.

Sunday, October 9 • 2-4pm • Free Conscious Presence, Conscious Action In the Time of Dying and Death With Robert Sachs Wednesday & Thursday November 2 & 3 $35 for one evening, $60 for both Dreaming and Dying Pathways to Creativity and Conscious Transition With Deep Arrow, aka Rev. Lorraine Simone Saturday & Sunday November 12 & 13 • 10am-4pm • $295 For more information or to register: Call or email Barbara: 203-912-2791 Info@AllianceFCT.com or visit AllianceFCT.com Liphe Balance Center, Weston

Never believe

that a few caring people can’t change the world. For, indeed, that’s all who ever have. ~Margaret Mead

calendarofevents

DIY Kombucha – 2pm. Learn to make Kombucha, sample a variety of blends, and bring home your own Scoby so you can start brewing. $20, materials included. The Grounded Goodwife, location provided at registation, Woodbury.

860-354-4881. GroundedGoodWife@yahoo.com.

GroundedHolisticWellness.com.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 26

13 Moons: A Women’s Healing Circle – 6-8:30pm.

Come together as women and healers. Meets monthly on the Wednesday closest to the new moon.

Explore sacred healing, women’s plant allies, sacred chants and honor the wise woman tradition. $25.

65 Bank St, New Milford. 203-313-7883. Info@ TwinStarTribe.com. TwinStarTribe.com/events.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27

Feng Shui and Chinese Astrology for Successful Families – 10-11:30am. Join international feng shui consultant and parent Beth Grace, and learn how to understand your loved ones better and arrange your home environment for success. $30.

The Total Life Care Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk.

203-219-9855. BethGraceFengShui@yahoo.com.

BethGraceFengShui.com.

Knowing Love Meditation – 7-8pm. Healing treatment for you. In Knowing love, we will explore all the areas of love in life and deepen the importance of knowing love through guided meditation, hypnotic techniques and a crystal singing bowl. Dress comfortably. $30. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-952-6272. MegReilly360@gmail.com.

MegReilly360.com.

S’mores! – 7-9pm. Homemade marshmallows with marshmallow root (no corn syrup, no wheat).

Indulge your sweet tooth as you enjoy your own S’mores and make marshmallows to take home.

Gather ‘round the campfire and learn about the benefits of marshmallow root, cacao, cardamom, and damiana. $20, materials included. The Grounded Goodwife, location provided at registation, Woodbury. 860-354-4881. GroundedGoodWife@yahoo. com. GroundedHolisticWellness.com.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 28

Reiki Second Degree Workshop – 10am-5:30pm.

With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher (20 years).

Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. 2 powerful energy connections from my short Japanese/ Usa Linage. Two manuals and certificate. $215.

Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk.

203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net.

AngelHealReiki.com.

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natural awakenings

Yoga Happy Hour – 5:45-6:45pm. Vinyasa flow that synchronizes breath with movement into a seamless sequence of postures, followed by a restorative Yin practice. Includes a meditation, and Sangha with Light Refreshments. $10. LifePath Yoga & Wellness, 430 Main Ave, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-3547070. Nina@LifePathYoga.net. LifePathYoga.net.

Meditation with Tibetan Singing Bowls – 7-8pm.

With Linda Fiske and Judy Vuozzo. Last Friday of the month. Relaxing guided meditation with the live playing of Tibetan Singing Bowls. $17 or class pack. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@NaamYogaCT. com. NaamYogaCT.com.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29

Reiki Second Degree – 9:30am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher (20 years).

Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. 2 powerful energy connections from my short Japanese/ Usa Linage. Two manuals and certificate. $215.

Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk.

203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net.

AngelHealReiki.com.

Spell Craft for Spiritual Transformation – 3-5pm.

With Angela Pizzarello. Examine why you may be attracting the same types of people and experiences to you, and learn ways to break out of the particular energy pattern that keeps you stuck. Women Only. $45. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-344-9311.

Halloween Spooktacular – 7-11pm. Get your ghoul on for this fun-filled evening of dinner, dancing, DJ, prizes and more, all in costume. $100.

Oak Hills Restaurant, 165 Fillow St, Norwalk.

203-855-7922. Office@UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30

Communion with Our Own Departed Loved Ones – 1-3pm. With Joseph Shiel, award-winning teacher.

Workshop of information and practice will help you discover ways to embrace the love of those who have departed as you come to understand their messages. All levels welcome. $35. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich.

AlbertsonChurch@gmail.com. AlbertsonChurch.org.

New Moon Celebration – 7-8:15pm. With Regina Synder. The New Moon is the best time to manifest and bring in all things new, health, abundance, and prosperity. $17 or class pack. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400.

Info@NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4

Fall Weekend Retreat – 7-4pm. 11/4-11/6. Retreat provides an excellent opportunity to deepen your meditation practice by allowing you to cultivate self-awareness for an extended period of time without distraction. $60/weekend, $30/one day. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. Info@ ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org.

ongoingcalendar sunday Meditation – 9:30-10:30am. Free Meditation as a give-back to the community. Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation, Chanting – 9:30-10:45am. Beginner level with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility, and strength in a way that is correct and nurturing for every body. $5/suggested donation.

Hindu Cultural Center of Connecticut, 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-261-7661. HCC.Yoga.Wendy@ gmail.com. HCCYoga.org.

New Beginnings in Community Sunday Service – 10am. Join this group of spiritually-minded people embracing and honoring all world religions, belief systems, cultures and traditions. Come together to share thoughts, experiences and wisdom in a supportive environment. Free. Mystics By The Sea, 394 New Haven Ave, Milford. 203-980-6272.

NewBeginningsInCommunity.Weebly.com.

Family Meditation Program (Kids and Teens) – 10-11:30am. Second and fourth Sunday. Introducing kids to meditation, metta, yoga, art practice, a discussion of ness in everyday life, generosity, compassion, letting go of negative mind states and other basic Parents can meditate in the main building. Info@ReddingMeditation.org.

ReddingMeditation.org.

Family Meditation Program – 10-11:30am.

Second and fourth Sunday. Ages 4-13. While the adults are meditating in the main building, young people can connect with others in their age-group, learn about mindfulness, compassion toward self and others. 203-244-3130. MMKeeler@gmail.com.

ReddingMeditation.org.

Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am.

Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org.

ReddingMeditation.org.

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.

Meditation Series at Athena Hall – 11am. With, Cynthia Quintanal, meditation teacher and sound healer. Meditation can take many forms. Come and learn in a safe, caring environment how to access your deep inner world. $20/drop-in. $100/series. Athena Hall at Salt of the Earth Healing Arts, 346 Main St, Woodbury. 203-257-9935. CynSongs@me.com.

CrystalCymbalogy.com.

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.

Queer Dharma – 7:30-9pm. Dharma traditions and the experience and concerns of LGBTQI individuals and their friends. Meditation instruction, practice, readings and discussion. All welcome. Free, donations accepted. Shambhala Meditation Center New Haven, 85 Willow St, Bldg B, New Haven.

302-990-2437. ArchAlex@live.com. NewHaven.

Shambhala.org.

Monday Meditation for Everyone – 7:30-9pm. This is Meditation Guided Imagery for relaxation and stress reduction. It also helps you move forward on your spiritual path. No experience necessary. $20. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plain St, Bethel. 203-570-3868.

Reiki Share – 7:30-9:30pm. Fourth Monday. With JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT. Practice Reiki in a small group setting. Share experiences and help each other develop in a safe, fun environment while providing a wonderful, relaxing, rejuvenating experience. $20. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center, 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointReiki.com.

monday

tuesday

Yoga – 9-10am. With Maria. $20. Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

Healing Flow – 9:30-10:30am. Series of stretches, moves and poses; concentrating on breath. Improve flexibility and core strength while reducing stress.

Create a lasting sense of calm. $14. 3 Rt 39, Unit #5, New Fairfield. 203-885-0577. WholeFitNF@ gmail.com. EarthFITnf.com/Whole-Fit. Toastmasters – Noon. Interested in public speaking?

Monroe-Trumbull Toastmasters is a chartered club of Toastmasters International dedicated to improving members’ communication and leadership skills. Meets alternate Tuesdays. Body Smart, Crescent Village, 115 Main St, Unit 11, Monroe. 203-459-6773. Franny.

Hannigan@charter.com. ToastMastersClubs.org.

Monday Morning Meditation — 11:30am12:30pm. With Beth Leas. Practical approach and individualized support. Great for those new to meditation and sage meditators. Explore different meditation techniques including breathwork, guided meditation, mantras (sound), yantra (sight), and slow motion movement. $100/5-week series. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. TLCBethLeas@gmail.com. BethLeas.com.

Peaceful and Positive Kids – 4-4:45pm. Starting 10/24, this 5-class series of enrichment classes will provide children ages 4-6 and 7-9 with tools and skills that nurture peace, positivity and compassion of self and others through positive affirmations, mindful activities, guided relaxation stories, soulful stories, positivity, massage trains and more. $95/5 classes. 103 North St, Trumbull. KGrich@charter.net.

KellyGrich.com.

Danzart Buds – 6:30-7:15pm. Danzart Buds is designed to train children age 3 to 7 yrs with the basic of Bharatnatyam footwork, mudras, stretches, and also prepares them for a Bollywood dance performance. $20. Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

Youth Yoga Course - Fall Session – 7-8pm.

Ages 10+ welcome. Fun loving class is designed to introduce the tradition of yoga, giving students the opportunity to work on flexibility and strength while relieving the stress of daily life. $18/ class. $144/8 classes. The Yoga Shala, 49 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-544-8811. Info@ TheyYogaShalaCT.com. TheYogaShalaCT.com.

Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm.

Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org.

ReddingMeditation.org.

Yoga All Level – 7:15-8:15pm. With Ilana. $20.

Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

Free Guided Meditation – 7:30pm: second Monday.

1pm: first and third Wednesday. With Dr. Allen Levy.

Session is catered towards providing information about the way in which meditation can assist with specific social, emotional and physical health need.

Free. Sabita Holistic Center, 3519 Post Rd, Southport.

203-254-2633. Sabita@SabitaHolisticCenter.com.

SabitaHolisticCenter.com.

Yoga – 4:30-5:30pm. With Lisa. $20. Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

Tai Chi Classes – Noon-1pm and 6-7pm. With Tai Chi Master Rich. For all levels of fitness. Known to reduce stress, increase focus and balance. Focus is on purposeful work to improve well-being and self. $25/drop-in, $85/1 class per week-month. $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690.

Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 12:30-2pm.

Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org.

ReddingMeditation.org.

Kung Fu Classes – 1-2pm and 7-8pm. With Sensei Rich. The ancient of art of Kung Fu is known for its ability to increase mental focus, strength, flexibility and balance and for its self defense moves. $25/dropin, $85/1 class per week-month. $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690.

The Art of Meditation – 6-7pm. Whether you are new to meditation or seasoned, this class will help you access inner peace and experience more clarity, purpose and joy. Chairs available. $10/ suggested donation. Any offering, large or small accepted. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, (Rt. 6), Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@YogaSpace-CT.com.

YogaSpace-CT.com.

Primer Mat Pilates – 6:30-7:30pm. With LaurieAnn. $20. Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

Meditating Holistically – 6:30-8pm. With Urgyan, a Western Buddhist lama sharing a rich practice of traditional meditation guidance directed toward holistic integration. Group meditation and discussion, devoted to our mutual innermost truths. $15. ah Yoga, 168 New Milford Tpke, New Preston. 860-868-6707 or Danbury Area Vajrayana Buddhist Meditation on Meetup.com.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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ongoingcalendar Angelic Healing Group – 7-9pm. First Tuesday.

Experience the healing energy of the Angelic Realm. Your energy body will be infused with the love and light of the Divine through meditation and hands-on touch. $20. Stevens Memorial Church, 8 Shady Ln, South Salem, NY. 203-438-4893.

Yoga Class or Yoga/Float – Yoga: 7-8pm. or Yoga/ Float package: 7-9pm. Enjoy the benefits of yoga in the beautiful PuREST relaxation room. $15/yoga only. $65/yoga and float package. PuREST Float Center, 35 Corporate Dr, Trumbull. PuRESTFloat.com.

Reiki Shares – 7:30-10:15pm. First and third Tuesdays. Gigi Benanti Usui/Karuna Reiki Master/ Teacher. For Reiki practitioners only. Exchange ongoing since 1996. Instructions included. $20.

Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk.

Pre-register: 203-852-1150.

wednesday Sacred Spirit’s Reiki Shares – Second and fourth Wednesday. With Valerie Tarangelo R.M. Mini healing sessions and if you are a trained healer: reiki or otherwise share and practice your gift. $10.

Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-344-9311.

Baby Boomer and Beyond Yoga – 10:30amnoon. With Deanne Mincer, 30 years experience.

Yoga for the young at heart. In private setting, heated, carpeted floor. With close attention to aging issues. $80/4-class series, $25/drop-in. Call for location. Ridgefield. DMinc100@aol.com. DeanneMincer.com.

Free Guided Meditation – 1pm. First and third Wednesdays. With Dr. Allen Levy. In 20 minutes, you will be meditating for the first time. Please RSVP. Free. Sabita Holistic Center, 3519 Post Rd, Southport.

203-254-2633. Sabita@SabitaHolisticCenter.com.

SabitaHolisticCenter.com.

Vinyasa Yoga – 6:15pm. In Vinyasa yoga, your movements are synchronized to the breath. This style is sometimes also called flow yoga, because of the smooth way that the poses run together and become like a dance. $14 or co-op rate. 3 Rt 39, Unit #5, New Fairfield. 203-885-0577. WholeFitNF@ gmail.com. EarthFITnf.com/Whole-Fit. Hatha Yoga All Level – 6:15-7:15pm. With Taylor. $20. Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

Reiki Share – 6:30-8:30pm. First Wednesday. With June and Tracy. Come join our circle of practitioners for sharing and caring and healing. All levels of practitioners are welcome. Please RSVP. $15. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690.

Meditation – 7-8pm. Transform you by healing the chakras through the release of long-held negative thoughts and beliefs, stagnant emotions, and discordant vibrations. Active-style meditation. All faiths and cultures welcomed. Perfect for all levels.

By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail. com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

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Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation, Chanting – 7-8:30pm. Beginner level with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility, and strength in a way that is correct and nurturing for every body. $5/suggested donation.

Hindu Cultural Center of Connecticut, 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-261-7661. HCC.Yoga. Wendy@ gmail.com. HCCYoga.org.

Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm.

Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org.

ReddingMeditation.org.

Stamford Positive Living Forum – 7-8:30pm.

Second Wednesday. Meetings feature inspirational speakers who aim to introduce you yo happiness boosters and techniques to lead to emotional and physical well-being, happiness and an overall sense of positivity. Free. Innovation Center of Stamford, Old Town Hall, 175 Atlantic St, Stamford. 203-962-1062.

Donna.M.Vella@gmail.com. HappinessClub.com.

Journey Group – 7-9pm. First Wednesday. With Cindy Miller. If you are looking to get unstuck, learn more about self-empowerment, becoming a healing facilitator, than this is the group for you. $20.

Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West St, Newtown. 203-426-9448. Cindy@TrinityProduction.org.

TrinityProduction.org.

Psychic and Mediumship Development Class – 7-9pm. Develop your own psychic and spiritual communication skills. Meditation and exercises to develop psychic and mediumship skills. All are welcome. $20.

Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. AlbertsonChurch@gmail. com. AlbertsonChurch.org.

Sacred Spirit’s Reiki Shares — 7-9pm. Second and fourth Wednesday. With Valerie Tarangelo R.M. Mini healing sessions. In healing others healers are also healed themselves. All welcome. $10.

Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-344-9311.

Using Smart Body (Kinesiology) for Everyday Situations– 7-9pm. Third Wednesday. Learn how to sense the energy of foods, supplements, books, places and more. Learn how to change energy. Presentation and discussion. $20. Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West St, Newtown. 203-377-6162.

Bruce.Zboray@yahoo.com. TrinityProduction.org.

Holistic Moms Network Fairfield County, CT Chapter – 7:30pm. Second Wednesday. Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care, 156 East Ave, Norwalk. Home.Homewebs.com/ HMNFairfieldCtyCT. Turning Point S.H.A.R.E. Divorce Group – 7:30-9:30pm. Third Wednesdays. Offering support, healing, advocacy, resources and educrcation 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.

natural awakenings

thursday Vinyassa – 9-10am. With Becca. All levels. $20.

Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

Tea and Meditation – 9:30-11am. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. Simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life. Discover the benefits of becoming more present. By donation. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130.

Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org.

Thursday Morning Meditation for Moms – 9:3011am. Come and unwind with a Guided Meditative Journey geared to release stress and a healthful more positive understanding of self. $20. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plain St, Bethel. 203-570-3868.

Tai Chi Classes – Noon-1pm and 6-7pm. With Tai Chi Master Rich. For all levels of fitness. Known to reduce stress, increase focus and balance. Focus is on purposeful work to improve well-being and self. $25/drop-in, $85/1 class per week-month. $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690.

Peaceful and Positive Kids – 1-1:45 or 4-4:45pm.

Starting 10/27, this 5-class series of enrichment classes will provide children ages 4-6 and 7-9 with tools and skills that nurture peace, positivity and compassion of self and others through positive affirmations, mindful activities, guided relaxation stories, soulful stories, positivity, massage trains and more. $95/5 classes. 103 North St, Trumbull.

KGrich@charter.net. KellyGrich.com.

Kung Fu Classes – 1-2pm and 7-8pm. With Sensei Rich. The ancient of art of Kung Fu is known for its ability to increase mental focus, strength, flexibility and balance and for its self defense moves. $25/ drop-in, $85/1 class per week-month. $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690.

Lift Everything – 4:30-5:30pm. Strengthen and tone every inch of your body in this class. $20.

Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

Vinyasa Yoga – 5:30-6:30pm. Open to all levels. $17 or class pack. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@ NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.

EFT Tapping Circle Meetup – 7-8:30pm. Second and fourth Thursdays. 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, a Western Buddhist lama sharing a rich practice of traditional meditation guidance directed toward holistic integration. Group meditation and discussion, devoted to our mutual innermost truths. $15. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-YOGA or Danbury Area Vajrayana Buddhist Meditation on Meetup.com.

Reiki Healing Circle – 7-9pm. Second Thursday. All welcome. Non-Reiki and 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.

saturday friday Reiki Share – 9:30-11:30am. First Friday. With JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT. Practice Reiki in a small group setting. Share experiences and help each other develop in a safe, fun environment while providing a wonderful, relaxing, rejuvenating experience. $20.

Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointReiki.com.

Free Mommy and 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.

Somatics – 10:30-11:30am. With Darlene Carman.

The practice of body awareness and using the body to heal itself. Class Pack or $17 (+tax). Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-7302400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.

Student Massage Therapy Clinic – 11am-noon.

Relax and enjoy a 50-minute, full-body massage for only $20 at our Danbury Campus public clinic. $20.

44 Shelter Rock Road, Danbury. KMCCaffrey@ Ridley.edu. Ridley.edu.

Gentle Naam Yoga – 3:30-4:45pm. With Darleen Driver. Gentle introductory class to learn about the special benefits of the Naam Yoga practice. Class Pack or $17 (+tax). Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com.

NaamYogaCT.com.

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.

Vinyasa Flow – 5:30-6:30pm. With Patricia Voorhees. Class guides you through classical yoga poses with attention to breath and mind-body awareness.

Class Pack, or $17 (+tax). Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave. Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@ NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.

Kundalini Yoga – 6:30pm. First three Fridays.

With Gina Cassetta and Alisa Andrew, KRI-certified teachers. De-stress through movement, chanting, breathwork, meditation and a deep relaxation and integration period. $15/class or $75/6 classes.

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Danbury, 24 Clapboard Ridge Rd, Danbury. 203-312-9427.

CassettaWoman@hotmail.com.

Shamanic Journeying Class — 7-9pm. 9/2, 9/16, 9/30. With Rocio La Rosa. A way of communicating with your inner or spirit self and retrieving information. Shamanic journeying can also be used for the purposes of divination, personal healing and to meet your power animal or spirit guides. $40/per class.

Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-344-9311.

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.

Angelic Reiki Meditation with Essential Oils – 8-9am. Receive short, hands-on Angelic Reiki, experience powerful techniques to reduce stress and relax. $10.

Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave (in the back, downstairs), Norwalk. Pre-register: 203-852-1150.

Love Yourself Fit Meetings – 8:30am. Support for your sacred journey of real weight loss. Meetings offer you a place to be accountable to your highest vision for your healthiest self. $15. Insights Wellness Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe. 203-260-9353.

ChrisGuerrera@me.com. InsightsWellnessCenter.com.

Plyogalates – 9:30-10:30am. With Lisa. Plyogalates incorporates Pilates, yoga, and plyometrics for full-body fitness. $20. Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Cannondale Village, Wilton.

Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation, Chanting – 9:30-10:45am. Beginner level with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility, and strength in a way that is correct and nurturing for every body. $5/suggested donation.

Hindu Cultural Center of Connecticut, 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-261-7661. HCC.Yoga.Wendy@ gmail.com. HCCYoga.org.

Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am.

Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org.

ReddingMeditation.org.

Psychic & Mediumship Development – 10amnoon. First and third Saturdays. With Liz Hoy & Bobby Kitsios. Students who want to develop their own spiritual connection. Class requires commitment and dedication to one’s self and their improvement. $20. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-344-9311.

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.

Kids and Tween Yoga – 11:15am-12:15pm. K-5th.

Sara Kate Venison. 4-week series. LifePath Yoga and Wellness, 430 Main Ave, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203354-7070. NAntolino@aol.com. LifePathYoga.net.

Understanding the Cycle of Abuse and Trauma – 1:30-4pm. 3-week series. With Berta Prevosti.

Discuss these key aspects of abuse and trauma: what is abuse; why did it happen; why me; how do I find peace; and how do I stop repeating the cycle. $35/ class. $90/series. The Jiiva Center, 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford. 203-345-7747. Support@JiivaCenter. com. JiivaCenter.com.

Open Mic Night – 7-9 pm, 3rd Saturday. Bring music printed out in your key and Kenneth Gartman will accompany you at the piano for your moment at the microphone. Comedians, poets, writers and musicians welcomed as well. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@ UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

classifieds To place a Classified Listing: $1 per word. $25 minimum.

Magazine deadline: 12th of month prior to publication. Email copy to NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

FOR RENT NEED A SPACE FOR CLASSES/SERVICES? JOIN OUR COMMUNITY OF HOLISTIC PRACTITIONERS Beautiful 600SF serene yoga studio and private Reiki/massage room w/ table are each available for rent. Bamboo floors, high ceilings, dimmable lighting, Ipod hookup, and yoga props. On Rt. 7, close to I-95 and Merritt. Email Nina@LifePathYoga.net.

OFFICE SHARE FOR HOLISTIC PRACTITIONER available at Ridgefield wellness center. Large treatment room with windows and a peaceful waiting room. Email for details: Info@OsteopathicWellness.net.

PROFESSIONAL OFFICE SPACE. 85 OLD LONG RIDGE RD, STAMFORD. 1st Floor space, newly remodeled. 2 units available, one at 700 SF with 2 offices at $1100 per month, second space is 1700 SF with 3 offices and large open space for modular units or open area for your office requirements; rent is $2550 per month.

Each unit has a private restroom. Rent includes real estate taxes and building maintenance, there are no special assessments. Call Donna at 203559-6021.

SPACIOUS OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE FOR RENT IN WESTPORT Professional office suite with ample parking in rear. $500 per month. Many professions considered. Call Cody 917-544-4412 (cell).

HELP WANTED DISTRIBUTORS WANTED for monthly deliveries of Natural Awakenings and other local publications. Perfect for a retired person or stay-at-home mom looking to earn some extra income and connect with their local community. Honesty and dependability are the most important characteristics of our distributors if you don’t have it in spades, please do not apply!

Thomas@ManInMotionLLC.com.

DO YOU LOVE NATURAL AWAKENINGS? Would you like to help spread the word about natural health and personal empowerment?

Contact Publisher Nicole Miale today about becoming a Community Street Team member to represent the magazine at some of our many upcoming community events. NicoleM@ NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

PRODUCTS HOME OF THE $10 YARD STATUE. Pet memorials, Angels, Buddha statues, Bird baths.

Many dog breeds. Shipping worldwide. 75 Laura St, Tiverton, Rhode Island. 401-314-6752.

SpringhillStatuary.com. Open year round.

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

ACUPUNCTURE

BREAST THERMOGRAPHY

INGRI BOE-WIEGAARD, LAc

ALBA THERMAL IMAGING LLC

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

Thermography can detect breast disease at its earliest stages and monitor and assess pain in any part of the body. Safe, painless, non invasive, FDA registered. See ad, page 16.

CANCER SUPPORT THERAPIES

JAMPA STEWART, MSOM, LAc Board Certified Acupuncturist Valley Spirit Wellness 11 Titus Rd, Washington Depot 512-291-8363 • ValleySpiritCoop.com

DORETTE LEWIS-SENIOR, ND, MSAC, BS-RN, LCM

Concierge care for those suffering from pain, internal disorders, menstrual issues and menopause, infertility, depression and anxiety, insomnia, addiction, fatigue, tuneups and more. Facial rejuvenation/ cosmetic acupuncture also offered. See ad, page 7.

JODY EISEMANN, LAc

Offices in Norwalk, Southport and Trumbull 203-216-2548 AcupunctureHealingCT.com High-quality acupuncture for all.

Benefit from the centuries-old and highly effective science of acupuncture and TCM. 25+ years of experience; acupuncture offered in private sessions as well as a ff o r d a b l e g r o u p s e t t i n g s .

Specializing in treating all kinds of pain and general health issues. See ad, page 9.

gifts you can give yourself, to forgive.

Forgive everybody.

Yale New Haven Health, Integrative Medicine 5520 Park Ave, Trumbull 855-735-2533 • Drs2Health.com

Dr. Lewis-Senior has been a Naturopathic physician and healthcare provider for more than thirty years combined. Her focus is on womens’ health, especially cancer, diabetes, weight and pain.

She is experienced using multiple modalities to establish health and bring about healing. Some Insurance accepted.

CHIROPRACTIC PETER BRAGLIA, DC

True Health Family Chiropractic 7365 Main St, Stratford 203-923-8633 TrueHealthCT.com As a member of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association, Dr. Braglia has received advanced training in Pediatric Adjusting and Prenatal Care, including the Webster Technique.

We are proud to serve patients from all over Fairfield and New Haven Counties with our unique and gentle approach to health care. See ad, page 20.

~Maya Angelou

64

Fairfield County Edition

Associates in Family Chiropractic and 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 Turning Techniques . Also provided: acupuncture, BioSET Allergy Elimination Technique and the DRX9000 Spinal Decompression. See ad, page 41.

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

Ingri treatments help alleviate pain, depression, neck and back, anxiety, headaches, stress, allergies, asthma, arthritis, digestive, menstrual, infertility and smoking and weight loss issues. See ad, page 49.

It’s one of the greatest

RISA SLOVES, DC

natural awakenings

COLONICS COLONICS

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

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE LLC

501 Kings Hwy E, 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 and tumbled gemstones for healing or collecting. Hand-crafted gemstone jewelry, candles, chimes, books as well as a showcase for local artisans.

EDUCATION 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 50.

END OF LIFE ALLIANCE FOR CONSCIOUS TRANSITIONING

At the Liphe Balance Center of Weston 203-912-2791 AllianceFCT.com

.

Our mission is opening the conversation and providing resources, programs and services, to support and embrace end-of-life transition. The Alliance was born out of a deep desire to honor, respect and meet the needs of individuals and their families at the end-of-life. See ad, page 21.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE KURT WAPLES, DC

Bluestone Health Group 47 Oak St, Ste 250, Stamford 203-220-6488 BluestoneHealthGroup.com Specializing in clinical detoxification, fat loss, nutritional medicine, applied kinesiology and neurological-based chiropractic care. Stateof-the-art body composition analysis and physical assessment. Call today to experience the power of natural medicine.

HEADACHE/PAIN RELIEF CONNECTICUT HEADACHE & MIGRAINE RELIEF CENTER/ TOM ANZALONE, DDS

235 Glenville Rd, Ste 2B, Greenwich 203-531-5688 • CTHeadacheRelief.com Connecticut Headache and Migraine Rel i e f C e n t e r ’s (CHMRC) approach to head-ache pain relief actually addresses and treats the sources of the problem.

Using techniques that have been proven effective in sports medicine, the CHMRC system targets improper muscle forces in the head, neck and jaw area that cause painful conditions. See ad, page 35.

HEALTH COACH MARY GILBERTSON, MS, BSN,CHHC

Licensed RN, Nutritionist and Certified Health Coach 500 Monroe Tpke, Monroe • 203-521-4733 GilbertsonMary@yahoo.com Prescription4Wellness.com Working 1:1 in groups and corporations to develop customized healthy lifestyle plans. You receive tools to optimize your health through nutrition, disease management, exercise, weight loss and stress reduction. 28 years of experience supporting teens and adults in healthy lifestyle. Available for speaking engagements and health events. See ad, page 17.

HEARTNUT DESIGN / INSTALLATION ANDREW MANGOLD/GREENTEK Effective Food Forest Implementation 203-943-2161 AJM09@hampshire.edu

Transform your site to ecological health and abundance. Grow the greatest fruit, nut and medicine plants in New England. Public & Private installations. Allow your site to thrive. Remineralization, intensive-analysis, collaborative, using diverse, effective plants to succeed. This is what we love.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PHYSICIAN MICHAEL FINKELSTEIN, MD, FACP, ABIHM SunRaven: The Home of Slow Medicine 501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY 914-218-3113 SlowMedicineDoctor.com

Insightful health evaluations with customized medical guidance.

Consultation and holistic-lifestyle teaching and coaching aimed at attaining enhanced health and wellness on every level.Uniquely qualified to offer a second opinion from a Holistic Perspective. See ad, page 10.

HOLISTIC DENTIST MARK A BREINER, DDS, FIAOMT

501 Kings Highway East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-0300 WholeBodyDentistry.com

YUFANG LIN, MD

WCMG Integrative Medicine 173 East Ave, New Canaan 203-920-1603 WCMGIntegrativeMedicine.org

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 soughtafter speaker and lecturer.

His popular consumer book, Whole-Body Dentistry, has been sold worldwide. See ad, page 2.

Are you tired of being sick? Are you ready to transform your life?

Let me help you heal from within holistically, using functional, herbal, homeopathic and energy medicine approaches.

HENRY C. SOBO, MD

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

Optimal Health Medical LLC 111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-348-8805 DrSobo.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 12 and 48.

Dr. Sobo provides Natural H o r m o n e t h e r a p y, w e i g h t 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.

If You Are Reading This, So Are Your Potential Customers.

Contact us today to be in this space next month!

203-885-4674 eNaturalAwakenings.com

October 2016

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INTEGRATIVE NATURAL MEDICINE SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER

Ken Hoffman, DAc, (RI), LAc, CCH, Medical Director Bruce Roff, LAc, LMT, Senior Associate Ashley Russell, ND Chris Maslowski, LAc, Resident Practitioner 31 Old Rt 7, Brookfield 203-740-9300 • INM.Center Using naturopathic and Chinese medical principles, we get to the source of your health concerns.

Diagnostic methods include functional testing such as advanced bloodwork analysis, cardiovascular testing, hormone evaluation and thermography. Our customized treatment program includes acupuncture, herbal and nutritional medicine, diet and lifestyle counseling and more. Most insurance accepted.

INTEGRATIVE OPTOMETRY EYECARE ASSOCIATES, PC

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

See ad, page 9.

We can never

obtain peace in the outer world until we make peace with ourselves. ~Dalai Lama

66

Fairfield County Edition

INTERFAITH MINISTRY REV. DR. CHRISTINE VILLANI 203-823-3453 RevVillani@gmail.com Loving-Memories.com

Reverend Villani is an ordained Interfaith Minister. She performs weddings for all denominations and belief systems. She also performs baby namings and funerals.

She is certified in Reiki and is a medium who gives readings.

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.

LIFE COACHING SOULBYRD THERAPIES, LLC

Sherrylee Dickinson, MLSW, LMT 203-984-6042 SherryLeeDickinson.com US.NYROrganic.com/Shop/SherryLee Stay grounded and on track with life coaching sessions, including vision board work, boundary and goal setting, and wellness workshops.

MASSAGE & BODYWORK JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER

2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 JiivaCenter.com We offer Traditional, Thai Massage and Prenatal massage.

At Jiiva Massage, our goal is to provide our clients with a variety of experienced therapists and modalities to choose from. Our hope is to provide you with an assortment of different techniques so you can find what works best for your individual needs. See ad, page 22.

ROBIN ORDAN, LMT, LCSW, CICMI Licensed Massage Therapist and 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 13.

natural awakenings

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.

VALLEY SPIRIT WELLNESS 11 Titus Rd, Washington Depot 512-291-8363 ValleySpiritCoop.com

Meditation can be easier to master than you think. Taoist, Buddhist and generic meditation. Beginners and experienced practitioners both welcome. See ad, page 7.

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

Bramasolé is a unique mobile fitness and wellness unit. Can’t get to the gym or yoga studio? I come to you!

Services include yoga, meditation training, Reiki, massage, Tai Chi and personal fitness. Studio hours also available. See ad, page 22.

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, all-natural healing modalities and treatment options to treat acute and chronic conditions, restore balance and treat the mind, body and spirit.

Specialists in endocrine disorders, digestive issues, pain management and chronic fatigue. We offer comprehensive solutions to prevent illness and maintain optimal health for body, mind and spirit.

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, bioidentical hormones, homeopathy, Chinese/ Western herbs, allergy/toxin testing, oxygen therapy, Meridian stress assessment, nutrition/ enzyme therapies. See ad, page 8.

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 11.

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

Naturopathic medicine, acupuncture, CranioSacral Therapy, natural face lift using microcurrent therapy. Specialties include family medicine, women’s health, endocrinology, gastroenterology, pain management, skin care. Insurance accepted.

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE LLC

Adam Breiner, ND, Director Elena Sokolova, MD, ND David Brady, ND, CCN, DACBN 501 Kings Hwy E, 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.

THE ART OF CONTROL 1177 Summer St, Stamford 203-973-7262 Info@ArtoOfControl.com

Classically trained Pilates instructors teach the fundamental concepts and principles of Pilates.

Part of Synergy Health and Fitness, a holistically oriented gym where practitioners from multiple disciplines offer their clients the fullest form of health and wellness. See ad, page 10.

PSYCHO-SPIRITUAL COUNSELING CHRISTINE GUERRERA, LMFT

PsychoSpiritual Therapy and 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.

NUTRITIONAL COUNSELING NUTRITION RESCUE

Jessica Moon, MS 66 Glenbrook Rd, Ste 300, Stamford 203-979-6181 • Jessica@NutritionRescue.net NutritionRescue.net Facebook.com/NutritionRescueCT

PILATES

.

ROBIN QUEEN-FINKELSTEIN

SunRaven: The Home of Slow Medicine 501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY 914-218-3113 SlowMedicineTherapist.com

Jessica uses a comprehensive approach for working with individuals and families. Specializing in dietary management of food sensitivities/allergies and providing support with elimination diets, menu development, and minimizing the impact of food restrictions.

OSTEOPATHIC PHYSICIAN

Offering a whole-being, integrative approach to wellness, nurturing clients into health on the emotional, spiritual, mental and physical levels. Following one’s heart to Re-envision life in order to flourish.

See ad, page 10.

.

PSYCHOTHERAPY

JILL BADYRKA, MFT AND REIKI MASTER

DAVID L. JOHNSTON, DO

In-Home Marriage and Family Therapy For Families, Children, Couples and Individuals 203-218-0194 • JBadyrkaMFT@gmail.com

158 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-438-9915 OsteopathicWellness.net

Dr. Johnston has been providing gentle, holistic hands-on osteopathic manual treatment and nutrition for over 20 years. Excellent for newborns, birth trauma, concussions, headaches, sports injuries, neck and back pain, digestive issues, brain support, stress, fibromyalgia, detoxification and weight loss, specialized bloodwork.

In-home services inspire healing, balanced with client well-being and comfort. Specializing in trauma, parent-child relationships, divorce, life coaching, selfempowerment and inner peace.

Holistic and strength-based. Now accepting Saturday appointments for therapy and Reiki.

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JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER

PSYCHOTHERAPY

2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 JiivaCenter.com

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.

Berta Prevosti is a Usui & Karuna Reiki Master and has been practicing Reiki for over 20 years.

We also have several experienced Reiki Masters and practitioners.

We offer private Reiki sessions for physical and emotional pain. We also have ongoing Reiki Classes that are taught in the traditional Usui method by Berta. See ad, page 22.

ROLFING/STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION

ROBIN ORDAN, LCSW

Family, Child, Individual and Couples Therapy Old Greenwich/Stamford 203-561-8535 • RobinOrdanLCSW.com

WELCOME TO GRAVITY

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 37.

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

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

TURNING POINT REIKI LLC

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

Yoni Hormadaly, LMT 109 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-550-6888 StructuralTransformations.com Yoni has been practicing Structural Integration since 2002. Specializing in improving the relationship between the human body and gravity. Flat feet, chronic pain and discomfort, improvement in athletic pursuits, general self improvement, are some of the reasons clients of all ages have sought out this work. Free phone consultation.

WESTPORT ROLFING

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

Fairfield County Edition

JAMPA STEWART, MSOM, LAc Board Certified Acupuncturist Valley Spirit Wellness 11 Titus Rd, Washington Depot 512-291-8363 • ValleySpiritCoop.com

Develop physical and mental fitness and find a new harmony of the mind, body and spirit using ancient Chinese arts. Starting with basic movements, warm-up techniques and breathing exercises, you will learn a set of flowing natural movements done slowly with calmness, balance and awareness. Weekly classes, weekend workshops and retreats. See ad, page 7.

TRANSFORMATIVE HEALING BETH LEAS

Transformative Healing • Tarot Offices in Norwalk and 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 of intuitive healing experience with adults and children of all ages. Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tarot. See ad, page 19.

SPIRITUAL ARTS LLC

Richard Wlodarski, RMT 2505 Main St, Ste 209B, Stratford 203-605-0773 Rich@SpiritualArts.info SpritualArts.info Richard is a Reiki Master/Teacher and intuitive reader. He specializes in home and property cleansings.

Come and experience the healing attributes of Reiki and discover spiritual guidance and awareness, with over 30 years of experience.

Providing Rolfing Structural Integration to Fairfield County. We provide soft tissue manipulation and movement re-education for postural, functional and chronic pain issues with offices in Westport and Fairfield. See ad, page 51.

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 6.

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WELLNESS CENTER 7eFIT SPA

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

Fit Spa

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A new way to lookin and feeling good.

KURE SPA

430 Main Ave, 2nd Fl, 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 and vitality! Offering Vibrosaun, massage and an organic juice bar. See ad, page 3.

NATURAL BEAUTY SPA

4154 Madison Ave, Trumbull 203-502-8503 Natural.BeautySpa@hotmail.com CTNaturalBeauty.com We specialize in today’s latest skin rejuvenation. Antiaging and acne treatment, massage, facials, hair removal, acupuncture, lymphatic drainage, VelaShape for cellulite treatment and more.

LIFEPATH YOGA & WELLNESS Nina Antolino, Owner 430 Main Ave, 2nd Fl, Norwalk 203-354-7070 Nina@LifePathYoga.net LifePathYoga.net

LifePath Yoga & Wellness is a center for yoga, mindfulness, empowerment and transformation. Classes, workshops and healing arts services include yoga, mindfulness meditation, Reiki, life coaching, women’s wellness/empowerment, holistic education, corporate wellness and creative arts. See ad, page 23.

JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER

Berta Prevosti, Usui & Karuna Reiki Master 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 JiivaCenter.com Jiiva is in the business of building a community for yoga and healing.

We offer yoga classes, a school of Reiki, private Reiki treatments, traditional massage therapy, Thai massage, meditation classes, workshops and community events.

See ad, page 22.

SALTANA CAVE

590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-969-4327 SaltanaCave.com Fairfield County’s first and only therapeutic Himalayan salt cave provides relief from respiratory issues such as allergies, asthma, and side effects of smoking and pollution. Salt is naturally antiinflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal.

SALT OF THE EARTH THERAPEUTIC SPA

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

STERN WELLNESS CENTER

NOV PUT ON THAT HAPPY FACE We can help perk up those sales figures

20 North Salem Road, Cross River, NY SternWellnessCenter.com 914-763-8000 When there is an interference, the body loses its ability to heal. Our goal is to unlock the healing potential within you through holistic approaches; wellness chiropractic & network spinal analysis, massage therapy, integrative nutrition, transformational coaching and reiki healing. Call today for a complimentary wellness consultation.

SUNRAVEN: THE HOME OF SLOW MEDICINE

501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY 914-218-3113 SlowMedicine.org Promoting and supporting health and wellness; facilitating community-centered experiential and reflective learning for individuals, families, and groups, by offering educational programs, events, and resources designed to build integrative skills and understanding for those looking to holistically care for themselves, others, and the world in which we live.

Transformative programs, holistic medicine, psychospiritual counseling; women’s, men’s and couples groups, garden co-op, cleansing program; special 12-week “immersion”. See ad, page 10.

Without a sense of caring, there can be no sense of community. ~Anthony J. D’Angelo

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COSMIC RHYTHMS A

by Alethea Hunt

strological support from Venus and Pluto facilitates moneymagnetizing “mojo” circa October 5; it is potentially an ideal time for securing a loan. This may be a mixed date in other respects, however; be aware that Jupiter and Mars also square off now, creating a strong desire to be right or take others to task over a conflicting view. Avoid an impulse to correct others’ worldviews, beliefs and/or politics as this kind of behavior does have the capacity to blow tempers out of proportion quite easily—especially with election time so close. Instead, check your own behavior and act in a humble, respectful manner while showing tolerance for others’ views.

Big relationship discussions may take place as Mercury joins Jupiter in Libra on October 11. While the conversation may not be the easiest due to other astrological factors simultaneously at work—such as someone wanting or pushing for a commitment— there’s verbal grace conferred that can help the issue be addressed honestly with finesse. If someone needs to be “let down easy,” this can be a helpful influence; don’t use too much euphemism though or the truth of the message may be missed.

An Aries full moon on October 16 can create tension as people assert their individuality within unions. One or both parties potentially need breathing room in relationships now, which may be problematic for those looking to “play house” together. Do think about this if you’ve been of the mind to push for a domestic living arrangement.

People tend to crave excitement and/or passion under this vibe; the togetherness co-habitation entails can sometimes take the spark out of a union. Others may suddenly develop feelings for a friend or roommate, seeing them in more of a romantic light; this is fine provided it doesn’t cause the relationship to get “weird”. Maintaining a level of emotional detachment can help avoid the potential for conflicted, changeable feelings that may send mixed signals.

Avoid potential conflict with powerful authority figures—even if the battle isn’t overt—the week of October 17. Power struggles are possible at this time. Ticking off a “higher up” such as a boss, parent or even law enforcements figures isn’t advisable since an abuse or misuse of their “authority” could occur. Don’t take any negative bait under this vibe as it may give incentive to become the target of someone’s wrath under such touchy astrology. If you are the one in a position of authority, be very careful how you wield it as some test of power could surface that carries a negative energetic blowback. It’s not a time to control; instead, redirect focus toward having personal accountability for how you’re using your energy so you do it responsibly.

A nearly four-week mutual reception kicks in on October 18 between Venus and Jupiter, becoming strongest on October 26.

Watch for extravagant spending—especially on a significant other— but overall this can be a good vibe for relationships based on mutual growth. This “mutual growth” can also be literal where couples plump up together as this “mojo” can stimulate the sweet tooth. If this is not the kind of growth you had in mind, try to be a positive influence on one another from a diet and exercise standpoint.

Lastly, a Scorpio new moon on October 30 amps up magical power with its contact to mystical Neptune. If you want to banish a vice or addiction, this is prime time for setting an intention to do so; definitely do not be afraid to use meditation, visualization and/or more esoteric methods to help your intention along.

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.

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Sun Raven, the home of Slow Medicine

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