November 2021 Natural Awakenings Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties CT by Natural Awakenings Magazine

E R F

HEALTHY

Plus Holiday Foods that Boost Our Mood

LIVING

HEALTHY

PLANET

BOOSTING BRAIN HEALTH

HALLMARKS OF HEALTHY COGNITION

DYING WELL

PRACTICAL STEPS TO A GOOD ENDING

DANCE

AS A SACRED PRACTICE

GRIEVING &HEALING THE LOSS OF A PET November 2021 | Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties | eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2021

203 TLC is a community of accredited health and

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

203 TLC ADHD/Special Ed./Child Development

Breathing Coaching

Dr. Mark Goldenberg, Brain Balance Center Drug free approach for kids PreK-12th grade 15 Cross Street, Norwalk, CT norwalk@brainbalancecenters.com brainbalancenorwalk.com 203-847-3000

Alexia Clonda, The Mind & Breathing Edge Mindset Human Growth Mentor, Breathing Coach ThetaHealing® Practitioner & Teacher Stamford and online. mindbreathingedge@gmail.com www.clonda.cc 607-319-9161

Energy Healing

Energy Healing/Meditation/Tarot

Sheila LaSella, Stillpoint Healing Therapies Polarity Therapist, Licensed Massage Therapist, Card Reader, Meditation & Mindfulness 1885 Post Rd., Fairfield, CT 06824 stillpointhealingct@gmail.com stillpointhealing.abmp.com 203-927-4055

Life Coach Diane Nicosia, MBA, ibalanceLLC Certified Coach & Reiki Master Teacher. Move forward toward your personal & business goals. In person or Zoom. NicosiaDiane@gmail.com ibalanceuthrive.com 203-858-5848

Meditation & Counseling Meg Reilly, MS, CH Counselor, Workshop Facilitator, Writer, Poet Services in person or by phone megreilly360.com 203-952-6272

Transformative Healing Susan Ahlstrom, Lighter & Brighter Wellness MS Counseling, EFT Practitioner, Reiki Master 452 Main Street, Ridgefield, CT lighterandbrighterwellness.com 401-232-4514

Beth Leas 25+ Years Experience Private Sessions, Workshops, Events In-person or by phone bethleas.com 203-856-9566

Life Coach/Hypnotist

Energy Healing Gail Christie, Joyful Living Reiki Holy Fire Reiki Master, Private Reiki sessions, Reiki-infused meditations & Reiki certification classes Online or In-person, Stamford JoyfulLivingReiki.com 203-979-0918

Essential Oils Wayne Leiss, LMT, CAO Adventures in Connection. dōTERRA Essential Oils, Symphony of the Cells™ Applications and Massage Therapy 20 Fifth Ave, Apt A, Danbury Wayne@WayneLeiss.com WayneLeiss.com • 203-994-1207

Lyme Disease Healing

Thea Litsios, CHy When you are ready to reinvent yourself. Currently working remotely. 203-693-1493

Gregg Kirk, Lyme Recovery Clinic & Detox Center Heal from chronic illness through all-natural herbal treatments, intensive detox, cleanses & energy healing. 528 Post Rd, Darien Gregg.Kirk@gmail.com 203-858-9725

Salt Cave

Transformation Coaching/Healing

Salt Cave of Darien Salt therapy, massage, meditation, yoga & more! 555 Post Rd, Darien Info@SaltCaveofDarien.com SaltCaveofDarien.com 203-658-7667

Katie Augustyn, MA, CPC Transformation Coach, Shamanic Practitioner, Spiritual Evolution Trainer, Energy Healer, TV Host TransformationCenterCT.com 203-820-3800

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

203-856-9566 | www.203TLC.com | www.TribeTLC.com | FB: Tribe TLC

Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Nature’s Virus Killer

not a sniffle!” she exclaimed. Businesswoman Rosaleen says when people around her show signs of cold or flu, she uses copper morning and night. “It saved me last holidays,” she said. “The kids had crud going round and round, but not me.” Attorney Donna Blight tried copper for her sinus. “I am shocked!” she said. By Doug Cornell “My head cleared, no more headache, no more congestion.” cientists have discovered a cold never got going. That was A man with trouble breathing natural way to kill germs fast. September 2012. I use copper in the through his nose at night tried copper Now thousands of people nose every time and I have not had a just before bed. “Best sleep I’ve had in are using it against viruses and bacteria single cold since then.” years!” he said. in the nose and on “We can’t In a lab test, technicians placed 25 the skin. make product million live flu viruses on a CopperZap. Colds start health claims,” he No viruses were found surviving soon when cold viruses said, “so I can’t after. get in your nose. say cause and Dr. Bill Keevil led one of the teams Viruses multiply effect. But we confirming the research. He placed fast. If you don’t know copper is millions of disease germs on copper. stop them early, antimicrobial.” “They started to die literally as soon as they spread and He asked they touched the surface,” he said. cause misery. relatives and Some people press copper on a lip New device puts copper right In hundreds friends to try it. right away if a warning tingle suggests where you need it. of studies, EPA and They reported unwanted germs gathering there. university researchers have confirmed the same thing, so he patented The handle is curved that viruses and bacteria die almost CopperZap® and put it on the and textured to increase instantly when touched by copper. market. contact. Copper can That’s why ancient Greeks and Soon hundreds of people had kill germs picked up on Egyptians used copper to purify water tried it. The feedback was 99% fingers and hands after and heal wounds. They didn’t know positive if they used the copper you touch things other about microbes, but now we do. within 3 hours after the first sign people have touched. Scientists say the high conductance of unwanted germs, like a tickle The EPA says copper of copper disrupts the electrical balance in the nose or a scratchy throat. still works even when Dr. Bill Keevil: in a microbe cell and destroys the cell in Early user Mary Pickrell tarnished. Copper quickly kills seconds. said, “I can’t believe how good CopperZap is made cold viruses. Tests by the EPA (Environmental my nose feels.” in the U.S. of pure Protection Agency) show germs die “What a wonderful thing!” copper. It has a 90-day full money back fast on copper. So some hospitals tried exclaimed Physician’s Assistant Julie. guarantee. It is available for $79.95. Get copper for touch surfaces like faucets Another customer asked, “Is it supposed $10 off each CopperZap with code NATA22. and doorknobs. This cut the spread of to work that fast?” Go to www.CopperZap.com or call MRSA and other illnesses by over half, Pat McAllister, 70, received one for toll-free 1-888-411-6114. and saved lives. Christmas and called it “one of the best Buy once, use forever. The strong scientific evidence gave presents ever. This little jewel really Statements are not intended as inventor Doug Cornell an idea. When works.” product health claims and have not been he felt a cold about to start he fashioned Frequent flier Karen Gauci had been evaluated by the FDA. Not claimed to a smooth copper probe and rubbed it suffering after crowded flights. Though diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any gently in his nose for 60 seconds. skeptical, she tried copper on travel disease. “It worked!” he exclaimed. “The days for 2 months. “Sixteen flights and ADVERTORIAL

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November 2021

HCP

Holistic Community Professionals

Our professional team of holistic and natural businesses provides community outreach and education. We are committed to improving the health and wellness of body, mind, and spirit in the communities we serve. Certified Intuitive Life Coach Elizabeth Raver DeCesare, PhD Medium, Energy worker, Clairvoyant and Trance worker. Online sessions available. RavElizabeth516@gmail.com DrLizMedium.com • 203-400-9212

Crystal/Sound/White Time Bradford Tilden, Universal White Time Energy, Gemstone and Sound Healing, Distance Healing Sessions, Trauma Clearing, Blockage Removal, Spiritual Development and Empowerment • info@CrystalMusicHealing.com CrystalMusicHealing.com • 860-830-5841

Holistic Healer Adriana R. Russo, MA, CHT, CCH, CHLC, Indigo's Path, Transformative Health and Healing. Hypnotherapist, Reiki Master, Intuitive Body/Mind Coaching. Indigopath2020@gmail.com Indigospathwellnessct.com • 203-510-8932

Mobile Reiki Cheryl Benanti Relieve Stress with in-home Reiki Sessions or two office locations if preferred. Provide sessions for horses as well. • reikiwilltravel.com • reikiwilltravel@gmail.com 860-966-0121

Naturopathic Physician Dr. Nicole Klughers, ND, PharmD, MSAc Vis Wellness Center Naturopathic Physician and Acupuncture Provider Rocky Hill, CT & TeleMedicine Statewide • (234)2-ACU-DOC DrNicoleKlughers.com • info@DrNicoleKlughers.com

Reiki Teresa Murphy Costello, Reiki Master/Teacher Healing Touch Reiki Holistic Arts Center Reiki/IET/Animal Reiki/Yoga/Massage/Meditation healingtouchreikillc.com • healingtouchreikillc@gmail.com Bee Well Ridgefield, CT • 914 320-5429 See more holistic practitioners at: HolisticCommunityProfessionals.org To join the HCP contact Shirley at 860-255-8844 4

Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

Contents 15 WHEN YOU

WERE BORN

16 EAT WELL TO FEEL WELL

Thanksgiving Fare that Boosts Mental Health

18 SACRED DANCE

Moving into Divine Energy

20 DYING WELL

Four Steps to a Good Death

22 ENSURING MORE

POSITIVE END-OF LIFE EXPERIENCES

24 GRIEF AND

AFTER DEATH COMMUNICATIONS

26 HEALTHY BRAIN

STRATEGIES How to Prevent Cognitive Decline

28 THE TOLL OF STRESS

ON OUR COGNITIVE HEALTH AND WHAT WE CAN DO ABOUT IT

30 HONORING THE

LOSS OF A PET Simple Ways to Grieve and Heal

DEPARTMENTS 7 news briefs 7 ad index 15 inspiration 16 conscious eating 18 fit body

eNaturalAwakenings.com

26 healing ways 30 naturally

healthy pet 31 pet brief 32 calendar 33 classifieds 34 resource guide

Natural Awakenings is a family of 50+ healthy living magazines celebrating 27 years of providing the communities we serve with the tools and resources we all need to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

20 18

ADVERTISING & SUBMISSIONS HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 203-885-4674 or email Advertising@eNaturalAwakenings.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 239-434-9392. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakenings.com. November 2021

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

FAIRFIELD & SOUTHERN LITCHFIELD COUNTIES

Publisher Erica Mills

Editor Michelle Bense

Design & Production Kathleen Fellows Erica Mills Contributing Writers Marlaina Donato Ronica O’Hara Heather Pierce Christy Ratliff Linda Sechrist Sales & Marketing Shirley Bloethe Erica Mills

Distribution Man in Motion LLC

54 Danbury Rd, #354, Ridgefield, CT 06877 Phone/Fax: 203-885-4674 Erica@eNaturalAwakenings.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

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

NATIONAL TEAM CEO/Founder Sharon Bruckman COO/Franchise Sales Joe Dunne Art Director Josh Pope Layout Gabrielle W-Perillo Financial Manager Yolanda Shebert Asst. Director of Ops Heather Gibbs Digital Content Director Rachael Oppy National Advertising Lisa Doyle-Mitchell Administrative Assistant Anne-Marie Ryan

letter from publisher

hough not everyone’s favorite subject, death is part of all of our lives. It is something that we often put off talking about regarding ourselves and others, but it can actually be very beneficial and healing to have those hard discussions. This month, we have several insightful articles that handle this delicate part of life, for ourselves and our loved ones—including how to honor a lost pet. Learn about end-of-life doulas, whose goal is to aid in the process of leaving this earth in any way that can be helpful, on page 22. On page 24, read about how afterdeath communications can be beneficial to those of us Erica Mills struggling with loss. All of these subjects are so important to contemplate, and can help with our anxiety and confusion over the subject. Our other focus this month is on mental health— always relevant. “Healthy Brain Strategies” on page 26 discusses ways to prevent cognitive decline. Then on page 28, learn how stress is affecting the health of our brains, and what can be done to help prevent this. Instead of the traditional talk of Thanksgiving meals, check out “Eat Well to Feel Well”, on page 16, which highlights some fun ways to include ingredients that can help boost mental health and well-being. There are some great recipes to go with this article, available online at eNaturalAwakenings.com. Of course, the holiday season is upon us, and it’s an especially great time to shop local. Many of our advertisers and local businesses and practitioners offer specials and gift certificates with the gifting season in mind. Please make a point of supporting them and sharing your favorites with friends and family. It really means so much. In gratitude,

Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 4851 Tamiami Trail N., Ste. 200 Naples, FL 34103 Ph: 239-434-9392 • Fax: 239-434-9513 NaturalAwakenings.com © 2021 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment. Natural Awakenings Magazine is ranked 5th Nationally in CISION’S® 2016 Top 10 Health & Fitness Magazines

Natural Awakenings is proudly printed in Connecticut at Trumbull Printing on recycled newsprint with soy-based ink. 6

Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

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Guided Meditation and Energy Healing at Salt Cave of Darien

elax and rejuvenate with the natural healing therapy of Himalayan salt and guided meditation/energy healing with a practical twist, led by certified Reiki Master Practitioner and Wellness Coach, Diane Nicosia, on November 4, from 6:30 to 7:45pm, at Salt Cave of Darien. Over the course of the event, Nicosia will lead participants through a detailed exploration of the seven chakras (energy centers)—each associated with a different part of the body, color, crystal and purpose. Chakra Insight Cards will be drawn for each participant as a tool to inspire introspection. By guiding them through visualizations of their ideal selves, Nicosia intends to combine the energy flow of chakra meditation with exercises meant to strengthen one’s self-image and bring their goals into focus. Nicosia hopes to empower participants to develop their own practices at home. Nicosia bridges spirituality with practicality. After over 30 years working for blue-chip companies in the marketing industry, she followed her more pressing calling: using her innate gifts to help others succeed in life, love and business. For more information and to register, visit SaltCaveOfDarien.com. Cost: $65. See ad, page 2.

Rewilding Autumn Retreat for Women

econnect with the innate wisdom of the lineages of women who walked before us while creating, sharing, exploring and revitalizing in sacred sisterhood. Join host Dr. Kristy M. Vanacore at the Rewilding Autumn Retreat to honor the transition from fall to winter and activate a new personal and collective cycle of growth. From November 19 to 21, attendees will gather like our ancestors did, in the stunning foothills of the Berkshire Mountains in picturesque Ridgefield, at the West Lane Inn. “Women need ceremony, sisterhood and nature to feed the fires Kristy M. Vanacore of their starving souls. As the pressures of modern life continue to threaten the value and vitality of families and parents—particularly mothers—struggle to be the glue that binds, it is imperative that women remember their roots and reignite the flames of their intuition,” says Vanacore. “Rewilding—an emancipation from the domestication and social conditioning of tolerance, distraction, apathy and fear to the empowered freedom and reclamation of their inherent curiosity, passion, ingenuity, instinctual wisdom and boundless joy—is critical to revitalize families. It’s what the world is waiting for.” Vanacore is a spiritual visionary, modern-day medicine woman and sacred storyteller who weaves ancient wisdom with modern science to empower families to thrive. She has been a prominent trailblazer in the field of holistic psychology for two decades, as she has revolutionized the personal development industry by creating a mentoring program for all ages and stages which combines coaching and personal development, evidenced-based psychological therapies, somatic/movement-based practices, energy medicine and Shamanic healing techniques. All-inclusive retreat package includes: private or shared rooms, ceremony, yoga, meditation, dance, music, weaving and creative expression, fireside talks, Shamanic Reiki and craniosacral balancing sessions, farm-to-table meals, outdoor excursions and more. For more information, call 914-497-8006 or email Kristy.Vanacore@kmvGroup.org or visit kmvGroup.org. See ad, page 16.

Photo by Stephanie Klepacki on Unsplash

203TLC 2 Academy for Soul Healing 12 The Angel Cooperative/ Angel Wing 29 Ann’s Place Festival of Trees 27 Color World Housepainting 8 The Computer Fairy 11 Copper Zap 3 Eye Care Associates, PC 27 Feng Shui Joan’s Way 14 Final Journey LLC 31 Greenwich Reindeer Festival & Santa’s Workshop 5 HGH Gel 16 Hilda Demirjian Laser & Skin Care 23 Holistic Community Professionals 4 Hummingbird Sound Yoga 15 Insight Counseling 19 Institute for Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Therapies 12 KleinSleep 17 KnoWEwell 19 Lectio 360/Meg Reilly 14 Natural Awakenings Reader Survey 27 Natural Living Directory 2022 40 Optimal Health Medical/ Henry Sobo, MD 25 Raja Yogini/Berta Prevosti 10 Rewilding Families/ Kristy M. Vanacore 16 RipeArt/Tama Ordway 14 Sedona Art 16, 22 Soul Healing Journey 12 Sustainne 29 Touch of Sedona 16 Universal Intelligence 13 We Are One/Connie Martin 31 Wellness Institute/ Marvin Schweitzer, ND 9 Wellness Metaphors/ Nancy S. Scherlong 22 Wolf Spirit Wellness 14

November 2021

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news briefs

Calming Crow Natural Healing Offers One-on-One Sessions in Terryville

manda Hynes at Calming Crow Natural Healing, located in Terryville, is a Reiki Master, Natural Healer and Empath. Her sessions focus on Reiki, crystal healing, chakra balancing (with pendulum work), guided meditation and distance healing. She also has crystals, eye pillows, handmade smudge cones and other charged items to bolster any session. All sessions are one-on-one and hands-free. “At a very young age, my grandmother began teaching me how to meditate, use breathing exercises and how to harness the Universal Life Energy that is around us for self-healing, strength, clarity and overall life balance. And so began my Amanda Hynes spiritual journey,” she explains. “As I grew, I observed, learned and asked questions. I knew that I was a nurturer and empath and have always felt drawn to the natural side of healing like my grandmother and wanted to help others.” With the imbalance happening in our world right now, Hynes found that it was the right time to open her small studio. “It is a welcoming, safe space filled with love, light and healing intent,” she says. “I feel that it is important more than ever to remind ourselves that it’s okay to stop and think of our own well-being.” For more information, call or text 203-231-9709, email CalmingCrowNaturalHealing@ gmail.com or find Calming Crow Natural Healing on Facebook. See Community Resource Guide Listing, page 34.

Salt Cave of Darien Celebrates Fourth Anniversary

he Salt Cave of Darien is celebrating four years of bringing healing and well-being to Darien. The cave offers guests the benefits of salt therapy, or halotherapy, which can be helpful to the respiratory system and aid in relaxation. Most sessions are 45 minutes long, but Salt Cave of Darien also offers massage, private events, yoga classes, special events and more. Owner Arianne O’Donnell opened the Salt Cave in her hometown in 2017 after she experienced the benefits of halotherapy herself—and discovered a new passion. Benefits of the salt cave have been studied for decades and focus on the stable air temperature, low humidity and lack of airborne pollutants.The pharmaceutical grade salt air that is emitted into the air is anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial thereby absorbing and removing allergens, toxins, and foreign substances in the lungs and respiratory tract. Private cave rentals are great options for small gatherings for book club, team events, virtual wine tastings or relaxation. Date Night features a private room for two for 75 minutes, small bites and Prosecco. New specials and discounts are featured on their website monthly, at SaltCaveOfDarien.com/promotions. Some of their upcoming special events include Meditation and Energy Healing with Diane Nicosia on November 4, An Evening of Spirit Communication with Theresa Galuszka on November 9 and Source Energy Channeling with Aggregata Zupanova on November 11. More events are added to the website regularly. Reservations are required. For more information, call or text 203-658-7667 or visit SaltCaveOfDarien.com. Location: 555 Post Rd, Darien. See ad, page 2. eNaturalAwakenings.com

Festival of Trees Brings Hope to Families Facing Cancer

oin Danbury’s premiere holiday event, the Ann’s Place Festival of Trees, from November 19 to 21. Back again live at the Summit at Danbury, attendees can take a walk through a winter wonderland of hundreds of decorated trees and raffle prizes. Guests will also enjoy a unique shopping experience with artisanal vendors at the Festival Marketplace. Entertainment will be on the hour Saturday and Sunday and children’s to-go craft bags are available for those age 11 and under. Adults 21 and over can join the popular Taps and Trees Beer Festival Saturday night. This is truly a fest within the Festival of Trees as attendees will be able to partake in tastings in the Tap Room of local beer and other libations. The first 400 guests to arrive receive a souvenir glass. There will be live music, dinner and dessert by-the-bite and all with full access to 100+ trees, raffle prizes and shopping that the Festival offers. All proceeds go to Ann’s Place, serving local families facing cancer with counseling, support groups and wellness programs—all free of charge. Find out more about these services at 203-790-6568 or AnnsPlace.org. For more information and to buy tickets to the beer festival, visit AnnsPlaceFestivalOfTrees.org. See ad, page 27.

Holistic Benefit Features Holistic Community Vendors

Benefit Holistic Health Fair will be held November 14, from noon to 4pm, at the VFW Hall in Plainville, as a fundraiser for the Plainville Food Pantry. Attendees will have the opportunity to interact with vendors and exhibitors as they learn about available resources to help promote healthy living and overall well-being. Vendors include: Natural Awakenings Shirley Bloethe magazines, readers, fitness clothing, soaps, chocolates, crafts, Pure Posture, crocheted items, candles, Bemer Therapy, CBD, soy candles, sound healing, natural minerals, T-shirts, salves, health resources, healing modalities, local art, Reiki, jewelry, balms, chiropractic, essential oils, honey, syrups, tinctures, natural and personal care products, natural supplements, crystals, auricular therapy and more. The Holistic fair is a free event and donations of non-perishable food, toiletries and paper goods will be collected at the door. Cash donations or checks may also be made to the Plainville Food Pantry. All door proceeds will help those in need throughout the year. For more information, call Shirley Bloethe at 860-989-0033, email YourHolisticEvents@gmail.com or visit PassItOnLLC.com. Location: VFW Post 574, 7 Northwest Dr, Plainville.

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Academy For Soul Healing Module III Starts Soon

he Academy For Soul Healing’s Expanded Year of Healing continues with Module III, which begins with the January 8 and 9 session. Module III will focus on Akashic Field Healing and quantum theory and will include: history of the Akashic Field/Records, kinesiology techniques, accessing the Akashic Field for healing, as well as a practicum for healing the self, others, groups and other situations. The course will take place one weekend each month via Zoom. Dates for Module III in 2022 are: January 8 and 9, February 12 and 13, March 12 and 13, April 9 and 10. No previous experience is needed to participate in a Year of Healing, and one does not need to partake in the previous modules to benefit from the third. “Just ask yourself this one question and listen intently for the answer: Is your soul calling to be in alignment with the Divinity of you? If your Soul says ‘Yes,’ please join us to transform your mind, body and spirit,” says facilitator Eilis Philpott. Some of the many intentions for the Expanded Year of Healing 2021/2022 include: shifting into who you truly are; discover and know, with certainty, your role(s) in the world; clear up the wounds, trauma, negative energy, doubts and fears that are preventing you from “Being”; create an experiential learning environment that is both personally healing and educationally driven; teach students the basic principles and techniques

from a number of modalities as outlined in the modules; and offer a supportive and non-judgmental environment for all students to become familiar with what it’s like to stand in the role of the leader/teacher. “Are you someone who has identified that being of service to others is vital to your alignment with your authentic self? Are you looking for an opportunity to engage in personal healing work that enables you to show up in your life and for others in an entirely new way? Or, are you a current practitioner, coach or therapist who’s looking to really differentiate your practice and expand your offering?” asks Philpott. Attendees will receive: guided support from Eilis Philpott and a new Soul Tribe; a unique and divine toolbox filled with Divine gifts and healing modalities; plenty of guided practice to harness different consciousness shifts; certification; and opportunity to join the Teacher Development Program. For more information and to register, visit AcademyForSoulHealing.com. See ad, page 12.

Get Certiﬁed to Teach Yoga in 1 Week! Restorative,Yin, & Yoga Nidra!

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Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

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Hilda Demirjian Trains Med Spa Hopefuls

edical spas, which combine aesthetic laser treatments and day spa services, can be highly lucrative for those who understand the industry, says Hilda Demirjian, owner of Hilda Demirjian Laser and Skin Care Center, in White Plains. In response to increasing interest in the field, she’s begun offering coaching and training for physicians and other professionals wanting to launch or grow their own med spa. “The med spa business is in great demand,” she says. “Yes, it is profitable. But you need to know about running the business successfully. Having a background of 25 years in this industry, I can say with confidence that someone entering the field needs guidance. I’ve trained surgeons, doctors, nurse practitioners, registered nurses and med spa owners from Manhattan, Florida, California, Greater Boston, Connecticut, Rhode Island and New Jersey.” A license is needed to run a med spa. Typical services offered include aesthetic laser treatments, such as skin tightening and treatment for acne, scars, pigmentation, stretch marks and hair removal; anti-aging facials; and Botox cosmetic injections. Anyone interested in training with Demirjian can come to White Plains to meet oneon-one with her, or she can travel to their location. She also conducts trainings via Zoom. She says the length and price of her trainings vary according to what the individual needs. While some trainees want to understand the business end of the med spa industry, others might want to learn the specifics of aesthetic laser treatments and skin care techniques. Her med spa business has been successful “since day one,” she says. “A big reason is that I have an endless passion and mission to educate every individual about the largest organ in the body, the skin. Even after 25 years, I’m still following the Golden Rule: I treat every individual the way I want to be treated, with respect and integrity.” Hilda Demirjian Laser and Skin Care Center offers complimentary skincare consultations. Hilda Demirjian skincare products are available on the store website and on Amazon. For more information, call 914-374-1756 or visit HildaDemirjianLaser.com or HildaDemirjianSkincare.com. Location: Hilda Demirjian Laser and Skin Care Center, 34 S Broadway, Ste 607, White Plains, NY. See ad, page 23.

Reader Feedback Helps Us Grow

he Natural Awakenings online national readership survey allows us to better serve readers. Your Thoughts “Your participation takes just five minutes, and will give us a better understanding of what you need and how well we’re delivering on your expectations,” says founding CEO Sharon Bruckman. “We’ll also use your responses to help guide the direction of future development.” One participant, selected at random, will receive a $100 Visa gift card. With the interests and welfare of readers in mind, Natural Awakenings provides information and resources for living a healthier, happier life. Publishing in more than 50 communities nationwide, Natural Awakenings is one of the country’s most widely read healthy living magazines, with a loyal monthly readership of over 1.3 million.

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news briefs

13th Annual Greenwich Reindeer Festival & Santa’s Workshop

Is your Soul calling to be in alignment with your Divinity? If your Soul says YES, please join us to transform your mind, body, and spirit!

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Academyforsoulhealing.com • SoulHealingJourney.com 203-767-5954 • Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com 12

Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

anta and his live reindeer are returning to Greenwich for the 13th Annual Greenwich Reindeer Festival & Santa’s Workshop presented by Jenny Allen/Compass Real Estate, “the North Pole on North Street”, at Sam Bridge Nursery & Greenhouses, from November 26 to December 24. The cherished town tradition continues for the 13th consecutive year where visitors can have their photo taken with Santa, meet the reindeer and also enjoy the new Santa’s Workshop, which provides more space for families while they wait in line for their photo with Santa. The community is invited for a “We’re Back Day” on November 26, from noon to 6pm, when Santa’s Workshop officially opens for photos with Santa. While waiting for the reindeer to arrive in the afternoon, everyone can enjoy special refreshments and other special activities. Children, adults and pets (on leashes) can have their photo taken with Santa at Santa’s Workshop. A portion of all photos with Santa will be donated to Kids In Crisis, a nonprofit organization based in Greenwich that serves all families in Connecticut. Admission to Sam Bridge and parking are free. Pricing for photo packages is available at GreenwichReindeerFestival.com. Hours for the Photos with Santa are Monday through Friday, noon to 6 pm, and Saturday, 9am to 6pm. Sam Bridge is closed on Sundays. The reindeer will depart on December 22, but Santa will remain for photos through Christmas Eve, 9am to 3pm. Throughout the four weeks, the reindeer will make Sam Bridge their home, thanks to sponsors, Sam Bridge Nursery & Greenhouses, Jenny Allen/Compass, Greenwich Pediatric Dental Group, Greenwich Hospital, The Long Ridge School, MercedesBenz of Greenwich and many media sponsors including Greenwich Magazine and Natural Awakenings Magazine. The event is produced by TMK Sports & Entertainment, LLC, a Greenwichbased event-marketing company. For more information, visit GreenwichReindeerFestival.com. Location: 437 North St, Greenwich. See ad, page 5.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

2022 Natural Living Directory Coming in February

atural Awakenings Magazine will present the 2022 Natural Living Directory this February. This special edition will be distributed throughout Fairfield County and Southern Litchfield County in February and will be kept and referenced all year by our 40,000+ readers. This issue will include our regular health and wellness content as well as a holistic glossary, wellness profiles and an enhanced community resource guide. The wellness profiles will provide in-depth information, highlighting the wealth of local health resources in our community that support a healthier, natural path to wellness. The Community Resource Guide listings will be a reference tool that can be likened to a Holistic White Pages for the region. “For the past 16 years, Natural Awakenings has provided this tool to our readers that they can utilize to help them live their healthiest lives,” says publisher Erica Mills. “Make sure to pick up your issue or bookmark the link to our digital guide and search for easy reference.” Natural Awakenings is offering early bird specials as well as advertising incentives through December 12. The issue deadline for material will be January 12. For advertising information or to submit listings, visit eNaturalAwakenings.com or call 203-885-4674 for details. See ad, page 40.

Announcing the Archangel Experience and CD Release Party

nternationally recognized composer and crystal/sound healer, Bradford W. Tilden, announces the official release of his fifth album, Archangel Meditations Part 1. This channeled composition is comprised of two tracks that connect with Archangel Michael and Archangel Uriel. The recording contains angelic frequencies transmitted through his voice and geometries embedded in music that heal and activate the active listener. This album is designed for meditation to connect with the Archangels, for use by holistic practitioners during healing sessions and for personal relaxation and well-being. It is available now to listen or purchase on all platforms at BradfordWTilden.hearnow.com. To celebrate the release, Tilden conceptualized a unique and immersive CD release party he calls “The Archangel Experience”, which will be held on November 20 from 7 to 8:30pm at the Red Barn in Durham (352 Main Street), and on December 11 from 2 to 3:30pm at Avant Garde Holistic Center in Branford (328 East Main Street). At the party, guests will lie down to receive the gemstone energies he developed for each Archangel through two specially charged gemstones, while meditating and listening to each halfhour Archangel meditation track. Participants receive a free copy of the new CD and keep the charged gemstones containing the archangelic frequencies. Tickets are $30 to attend this music meditation experience. There are five $50 VIP spots to receive the complete gemstone layouts. For Red Barn tickets, visit Tinyurl.com/AAExperience2021. For Avant Garde tickets, RSVP to 203-481-8443 or AvantGardeCT13@yahoo.com. For more information, visit BradfordWTilden.Bandcamp.com or Facebook.com/CrystalMusicHealing. To host “The Archangel Experience” at a local center or be trained by Tilden to facilitate it, email Bradford@CrystalMusicHealing.com. See ad, page 4.

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news briefs

Awaken Fair Returns to Tarrytown In-Person

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he Awaken Wellness Fair, a major expo focused on green living and body-mindspirit wellness, will return to Tarrytown on November 21. Founder and CEO Paula Caracappa says she’s expecting an electric atmosphere, as this is the first in-person Awaken Fair in the area since the pandemic began. “It’s really a party,” she says. “We always bring along the best exhibitors, including speakers, healers, vendors and readers. People have been asking and asking for the Awaken Fair in Westchester and New York City. It’s so gratifying to see the enthusiasm—there’s clearly a big pent-up demand. These past 18 months have been very hard on people, nowhere more so than in the New York area. I am so pleased to be offering a day of peace, relaxation and soothing connection.” Among the longtime favorite experts appearing at the Awaken Fair will be “the Blood Detective,” Michael Wald, D.C., who will be giving a full day of talks on a variety of health subjects at no additional cost; Westchester Brain and Body, which will be providing aura hand scans; and Beautiful Tibet, showcasing accessories and clothing handmade by women in India, Tibet and Nepal. This year’s lineup will also include new exhibitors, such as Shiny Stuff Gifts, featuring a wide array of sterling silver jewelry; sanastaWellness, which offers therapeutic aromatics; and Third Wolf Designs, whose creations are rooted in “symbolism, depth and intention,” Caracappa says. “The Awaken Wellness Fairs educate people about the many paths to a healthy body, mind and spirit that are available in today’s world,” she says. “We include ancient techniques as well as amazing cutting-edge technologies.” Experienced practitioners in Reiki and other energy-healing techniques will be offering minisessions, so guests can “sample” them affordably, she says. Guests will be required to follow New York State’s COVID regulations, which currently only require masks. Regulations are subject to change. Cost: $15 or $25 VIP for tickets purchased in advance at AwakenFair.com. $20 for tickets purchased at the door. Location: Sleepy Hollow Hotel + Conference Center, 455 S. Broadway, Tarrytown, NY. For more information, call 914-422-1784 or visit AwakenFair.com.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

inspiration

WHEN YOU WERE BORN by Bobbi Soares When you were born, an angel looked your way. Always there to guide you throughout the day.

Now you were born, you’ll die someday. No one gets out alive, my teacher used to say.

Bringing new beginnings, coming home to the light. Knowing life’s a journey, It makes it alright.

Now you were born, you gotta live someday. Up to your potential, You always find the way.

And when you die, you sprout wings and fly, with a spirit Sherpa into a brand new sky.

Wash your spirit clean, Wash your spirit clean.

When you were born, you had stuff to say. Get down on your knees babe, you don’t have to pay!

Wash your spirit clean, Wash your spirit clean.

Now you were born, you’ll die someday when I told my partner, he said that’ll be the day.

photo by Bobbi Soares: Spirits Crossing ©21.BSoares

Wash your spirit clean, Wash your spirit clean.

Spirit of the wind, the mountains, the land, Mother of the waters gonna take your hand.

If I should die, before you’re awake, have a happy life babe, there’s nothing more at stake.

Barbara “Bobbi” Soares wrote this poem during the beginning of the pandemic, in April of 2020. She is a certified sound healing coach and vocal yoga practitioner in New Milford. She hosts Gong Sound Journeys on Wednesdays, bimonthly at 6pm; reservations required. Connect at 860-946-9470 or find Hummingbird Sound Yoga on Facebook. See ad, this page. November 2021 15

Rewilding Families m

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conscious eating

EAT WELL TO FEEL WELL

thanksgiving fare that boosts mental health

by Christy Ratliff

cross America, people of all ages are struggling with mental health issues. Nearly one in five people is living with a mental health condition, and the number of people seeking help for anxiety and depression is skyrocketing, reports Mental Health America. According to the organization’s 2021 State of Mental Health in America Report, suicidal thoughts are increasing among both adults and children, and 9.7 percent of youth is experiencing severe major depression compared to 9.2 percent last year. The highly contagious COVID-19 Delta variant has only exacerbated these mental health challenges. The hope and help we seek may be as close as our own kitchen. Accumulating research shows that a diet rich in highly processed foods may increase the risk of developing or worsening various mental health conditions. But a nutrient-based diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables; omega-3 fatty acids; nuts, seeds and legumes; whole grains, fresh herbs and spices; fish and olive oil, may help to support and enhance mental health. We can start this Thanksgiving by serving up healthier, nutrient-rich options to alleviate anxiety and depression, stabilize mood and promote mental health and wellness. “The gut/brain connection helps us understand the food/mood connection,” explains Dr. Uma Naidoo, a Harvard-trained nutritional psychiatrist, professional chef, nutrition specialist and author of the national bestseller This is Your Brain on Food. “The enteric nervous system—that is, the nerves supplying the gastrointestinal tract—totals over 100 million neurons and communicates directly with the brain, or central nervous system, by way of the vagus nerve, which is responsible for our ‘rest-and-digest’ response. “It’s also vital to note that the gut contains the highest number of serotonin receptors, and the gut itself produces all the neurotransmitters that are also made in the brain, including serotonin, often called the happiness hormone. In turn, these neurotransmitters are implicated in sound mental health or potential problems when they are deficient.” “What we eat affects mental health in many ways,” adds Amy Spindel, a functional holistic nutritionist in Plano, Texas, and founder of FoodWithThoughtNutrition.com. “Nutrient deficiencies can cause poor neurotransmitter production. Insufficient vitamin B6, folate and vitamin B12 can be implicated in depression and anxiety symptoms, as they are all needed for various stages of neurotransmitter production, especially serotonin, dopamine and GABA.” “Traditional sugary, high-carbohydrate foods promote unstable

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jchizhe/AdobeStock.com

blood sugar and selectively feed inflammatory gut microbes,” Spindel says, suggesting that we skip the typical foods many of us associate with the holidays such as pecan pie, marshmallow-topped sweet potato casserole and canned cranberry sauce. “Blood sugar fluctuations cause the body to scramble in an attempt to re-regulate glucose, which may mean spikes of cortisol or adrenaline, as well as insulin. The end result can be depression and anxiety from excessive stress hormones and a glucose-starved brain.” But making such changes, particularly during the holidays, isn’t easy. “If the thought of changing up the traditional Thanksgiving menu gives you pause, you are not alone—and this is why I believe in adding in habits (and in this case, dishes) which have a positive ripple effect on our bodies and our brain, allowing for a self-sustaining cycle in our lifestyle,” advises Naidoo.

“As a nutritional psychiatrist, I feel that we are more emotionally nurtured by a feeling of abundance in ‘adding’ new Thanksgiving dishes than thinking about this as ‘excluding’ foods,” she notes. “For example, tossing a fresh, folate-rich spinach and arugula salad with bits of antioxidant-rich strawberries, crisp roasted chickpeas and omega-3-rich olive oil adds color, flavor and a plethora of mood-nourishing ingredients to the dinner table. Even adding extra veggies to existing dishes, such as allicin-rich garlic to green beans or extra celery and fresh herbs to stuffing, adds in powerful phytonutrients with gut-loving fiber.” “Thanksgiving favorites that are ample in neurotransmitterproducing nutrients include turkey, shellfish, sweet potatoes and acorn squash, asparagus, leafy greens, oranges and green beans,” Spindel adds. While it’s true that we cannot control a global pandemic or solve the mental health crisis in America with positive thinking alone, we can minimize our feelings of powerlessness and despair by making small but significant dietary changes—not just on Thanksgiving, but every day of the year. Christy Ratliff is a professional health and wellness writer based in Central Florida.

Find accompanying recipes at eNaturalAwakenings.com

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fit body

SACRED DANCE Moving into Divine Energy

viktoriia protsak/AdobeStock.com

by Marlaina Donato

eart-healthy dancing of all types is known to promote overall physical and mental health. When they are spirit-infused, forms like African, Middle Eastern, ecstatic and yoga-inspired kundalini dance offer us the opportunity to stay in shape while also fortifying the body’s intrinsic life force. Classes in these styles of dance, which are most often conducted barefoot, draw upon a deep cultural well and include the infectious heartbeat of live accompaniment. Just about anyone can find their own blissful groove when going with the flow is the focus. “In class, I choose to emphasize the feeling more than the step itself. The goal is always to get a spiritual release,” says Darian Parker, a Brooklyn-based West African dance teacher, professor and choreographer. “I always encourage my students to privilege ‘having a good time’ over succumbing to self-criticism from not perfecting a step.”

Modern Moves, Ancient Roots There are more than 3,000 ethnic groups on the continent of Africa, and each dance style has a purpose that is defined by its unique history. In the West African tradition, dances are designed to heal the individual and from the broader perspective, restore community. Parker, a faculty member of Cumbe: Center for African and Diaspora Dance, in Brooklyn, celebrates the culture and art of the Mande people. “In short, Mande dance trains your spirit just as much as it trains your body,” says Parker. “In many Mande cultures, the ground is thought to be the habitation of our ancestors, who are thought to animate our 18

Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

eNaturalAwakenings.com

bodies when we dance. In this way, you can think of dance as a ritual technology that renews our connections with those who came before us.” While an African dance class encourages high energy and joyous expression, ecstatic dance can be a portal to self-discovery and connectedness. Springboarding from ancient societies worldwide, modern ecstatic dance is freeform and hallmarked by trance or tribal beats. “Ecstatic dance has offered me a portal to my subconscious, my spirit, my deep knowing. It’s a way to, as Gabrielle Roth, the creator of 5Rhythms, put it, ‘Get out of my head and into my body,’ and in my body there is wonderful wisdom,” explains Heidi Sheldon, a seasoned ecstatic dancer and licensed counselor in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. “Your spirit knows what to

do when it hears and feels the rhythms. You just need to allow your body to follow.”

Belly of Bliss, Heart of Light Middle Eastern dance is comprised of many dance styles—folk and tribal, classical and most widely known, belly dancing. In ancient times, the latter was practiced in rituals for fertile harvests and women’s fertility, including physical preparation for childbirth. In 2017, a pilot study published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies showed that belly dance improves depressive symptoms, fatigue and quality of life in women with breast cancer. “Belly dancing is a tantric form of dance that empowers women to release shame and accept and love themselves and their bodies just as they are. The movements open us to pleasure and sensual bliss in our very own skin. In this way, it is very healing and therapeutic,” says Banafsheh Sayyad, a Persian dance artist and founder of the Dance of Oneness Academy, in Los Angeles. Sayyad’s movement, a fusion of Persian and Middle Eastern dance, flamenco, contemporary dance and meditative whirling, is deeply connected to an ancient feminine ethos. As a teacher, she brings the Sama—the dervish (pronounced “darvish” in Persian) dance of the Sufis historically reserved for men—into the hands of women.“In the traditional Sama, the right arm is extended up toward the sky with the palm facing up,” she says. “The left arm is extended out with the palm facing down toward the Earth. In so doing, you transmit and emanate the light you’ve received into the world through your heart. So, this dance is about becoming a channel for light and love in the world.” In essence, stepping into any dance class can be good for the soul. Sayyad reminds us, “Every movement and dance style, if done with the intention of surrendering one’s sense of separateness into an experience of the greater or dissolving one’s identity as a drop of water into the greater ocean of oneness, can be sacred.”

coming in the december holiday issue

Uplifting Humanity

plus: Boosting Immune System

Marlaina Donato is an author and recording artist. Connect at WildflowerLady.com. November 2021 19

nikkizalewski/AdobeStock.com

Four Steps to a Good Death

by Ronica O’Hara

n his deathbed, Apple founder Steve Jobs looked for a long time at his children, his sister and his wife, then moved his gaze to the space behind them. “Oh wow! Oh wow! Oh wow!” he gasped. No one can know for certain what he was experiencing, but his words point to the deep, mysterious potential of our final hours—the awareness of which can transform our life long before its end.

Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

“An awareness of dying, of death, can wake us up to life. It helps us live a life that’s rich and full and meaningful. When we deny the truth of dying, we live less wholeheartedly, less completely,” says Frank Ostaseski, founder of the pioneering San Francisco Zen Hospice Project and author of The Five Invitations: Discovering What Death Can Teach Us About Living Fully. The pandemic has 51 percent of us thinking more about our own mortality, a survey shows. The subject of death has been slowly opening up in America: TV programs like Six Feet Under and Alternative Endings: Six New Ways to Die in America present dying and grief more realistically; thousands of small conversational gatherings called “death cafes” are being held each year; people are designing their own funerals and choosing green burial sites; and the field of “death doulas” is emerging to help families navigate the legal and emotional shoals. Half a century after the release of Elisabeth Kübler-Ross’ seminal book On Death and Dying, palliative care to ease pain is offered by two-thirds of American hospitals, and Medicare funding for end-oflife hospice care has grown tenfold over the last two decades. Yet for many, death remains the last taboo—85 percent of us have not discussed our last wishes yet with loved ones. Thousands of studies in the emerging field of experimental existential psychology have found that when reminded subconsciously of death, people tend to drive faster, drink harder, smoke more and get meaner to out-groups in attempts to lower their anxiety. But when we look death squarely in the face, that anxiety recedes, the research concludes. Gratitude, self-honesty and the humility of recognizing our place in the larger whole are also proven antidotes.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

With less fear, we are better able to take the proactive, concrete steps that ease our passage—getting clear on our values and desires, having important conversations, attending to final decisions and opening to our spiritual process. Although death has its own ways and means, these four processes can make it more likely we will die as we would like to.

Defining What We Value “Deeply

consider what your priorities in life are,” says Tarron Estes, founder and CEO of The Conscious Dying Institute, in Boulder, which has trained more than 6,500 doulas since 2013. “Ask yourself, if I had only three months to live, what’s important to me spiritually, emotionally, physically? What do I still need to do or say?” She recommends Stephen Levine’s book, A Year to Live, for exercises and meditations for that process. “Don’t wait until the time of your dying to discover what it has to teach you,” advises Ostaseski, who has sat beside more than 2,000 hospice patients in their last hours. “When I’m with dying people, the things that are important to them are not their spiritual beliefs, but are more about relationships—‘Am I loved? Did I love well?’ Those two questions are useful inquiries now. They help us to discover where value and meaning can be found.” By applying our values to the dying process, we can start sorting through options. Do we want to die at home or in a hospital? What medical procedures will we accept or decline? What measures do we want to be taken to sustain our life? Who do we want to be at our side? And what do we need to say before that time?

Having Important Conversations As

daunting as the prospect of an end-of-life talk with family and friends may seem, it can start with simple words like “I want to talk with you about something important to me.” Without spelling out our desires, death can become inadvertently medicalized: Nine in 10 of us say we want to die in our homes, but only two in 10 do. “The default systems are all to treat, treat, treat, until someone finally says, ‘No,’ so many people end up on a high-tech conveyor belt to the ICU,” says award-winning journalist Katy Butler, author of The Art of Dying Well: A Practical Guide to a Good End of Life. Among people that undertake such talks, 73 percent describe the experience as positive,

reassuring and productive. A downloadable Conversation Starter Guide (TheConversationProject.org) provides practical guidance for these critical conversations.

Attending to Medical and Burial Decisions Taking care of business—the paper-

work aspects of death known as advance directives—spares loved ones from having to make tough decisions later. A last will and testament precludes pain and infighting among family and friends. A living will specifies what treatments are wanted under what conditions. A medical power of attorney designates a trusted person to make medical decisions if a patient is not capable. A Do Not Resuscitate order approved by a doctor means emergency medical workers are less likely to give CPR, which frequently causes trauma and broken ribs in elderly or frail patients. Either cremation or a burial can be decided upon; environmental options such as a forest burial in a wooden casket can be explored. Local hospice options can be surveyed in advance; nonprofits generally are rated better than profit-making groups.

Opening to the Spiritual Process Wheth-

er or not we have religious beliefs to carry us through waves of loss and sorrow, death can spur spiritual insight. “In dying, we withdraw from our outer circles and come into the inner circles of our lives—the relationships that matter most to us,” says Ostaseski, who has worked four decades with hospice patients. “There’s a growing silence that has us becoming more contemplative and reflective. Our sense of time and space changes and we enter into a kind of free flow. The boundaries we have lived by begin to dissolve, and we start to feel ourselves as part of something larger—not as a belief, but as a natural occurrence. Often people realize themselves to be more than the small, separate self they had thought themselves to be.” Joan Tollifson, a Zen-trained spiritual teacher and author of Death: The End of Self-Improvement, concurs: “When the future disappears, we are brought home to the immediacy that we may have avoided all our lives. With no future left to fantasize about, the focus of attention may finally be fully on right Now, the only place where our life ever actually is. Really getting that ‘This is it,’ there may be a sudden recognition of the absolute preciousness and wonder of every simple ordinary thing and of the people around

us, just as they are, with all their flaws and foibles. Old grudges and resentments often melt away, and love shines through. “All the things which may have been part of our self-image—independence, physical strength, cognitive sharpness, good appearance and so on—have either disappeared or are rapidly collapsing, which invites the discovery that none of that really mattered, that what we truly or more fundamentally are is not dependent on any of that. “The greatest gift we can give to a loved one who is dying,” says Tollifson, is to “simply be present, listen, follow your heart, trust the process. Everything else will follow from that. There’s no right or wrong way.” It can be difficult to know what to say to a loved one near the end, but hospice workers recommend five phrases that have deep healing potential, even if a person seems unconscious: “I love you,” “Thank you,” “Please forgive me,” “I forgive you,” and “Goodbye” or “Until we meet again.” As Butler points out, the first four phrases can be said any time in our lives. Increasingly in hospice care, loved ones are encouraged to sit with the body after the death, touching it, sharing stories, perhaps gently bathing it and dressing it in favorite clothes. “Touching the body, feeling the coolness, makes the death real to the family,” Ostaseski says. “Research shows that people that went through that process still grieved, but they were able to be with the emotion and not be overwhelmed by it.” Facing the reality of death—as hard and heartbreaking as that can be—can free us to truly live life, said Jobs. After his terminal cancer diagnosis, he told Stanford students in a commencement address, “Remembering that I’ll be dead soon is the most important tool I’ve ever encountered to help me make the big choices in life. Because almost everything—all external expectations, all pride, all fear of embarrassment or failure—these things just fall away in the face of death, leaving only what is truly important. Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart.” Health writer Ronica O’Hara can be contacted at OHaraRonica@gmail.com. November 2021 21

By Cristina Conti on Shutterstock

Ensuring More Positive End-of-Life Experiences

Professional Help for Dying Well

by Joan Law and Heather Pierce

In practical terms, this means that patients can receive painful, unnecessary procedures even in the last few days of life. It can also mean passing in the intensive care unit (ICU), rather than at home or in hospice. How do you want to spend your last days? It warrants some thought and preplanning, which is where an end-of-life doula (EOLD) can come into the story. EOLDs are not medically trained. However, they can help ensure that that family is aware of and understands all their options. They can also help get all the family decision-makers on the same page. When EOLDs are engaged sooner in the course of illness, there are many additional services they can offer.

ave you talked about death with your loved ones? It’s not a comfortable topic, so many people avoid even thinking about it until they’re seriously ill. By that point, families are struggling with emotions let alone decision making and planning. So what resources are available to help families during this difficult time? Other than one’s own network of family and friends, it usually comes down to the particular health care system the patient is using. According to a 2013 article on end-of-life care in Medical News Today, “it appears that palliative care for elderly patients is often occurring only as an afterthought, rather than a properly planned part of patient care in which doctors, providers, patients and their family sit down and discuss options.”

EOLD is a relatively new field that has emerged to fill the gaps in a society where we’re not typically very good at pre-planning our death experience. EOLDs do not provide any medical services and therefore aren’t covered by insurance at this time. Most EOLDs offer emotional support to both the ill person and their immediate family members. Most offer companionship to the dying and respite to the family care-givers. Many can describe what to expect, physically, during the dying process. Some EOLDs use the Five Wishes document to help a patient plan the end. In addition to legal matters like designating power of attorney, the document provides prompts, such as, “Would you want music playing or a foot massage at the end?”

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It addresses the little—yet significant— things that may not be thought of otherwise. Some EOLDs can help the dying reflect on the meaning of their life or honor their story by helping with a legacy project to be left for their family. Examples include scrapbooks, writings, recordings and more.

Choosing An End of Life Doula Services can vary from one EOLD practitioner to another, so that is something to keep in mind. Some EOLDs are former hospice or nursing home workers but many also choose to be trained and certified in EOLD as well. There are several organizations that offer certification programs as well as directories of certified EOLDs. Learn more by visiting websites from The Conscious Dying Institute (ConsciousDyingInstitute.com), National End-of-Life Doula Alliance (NEDAlliance.org) or International End of Life Doula Association (inelda.org). Joan Law is a certified EOLD, offering services through her business Feng Shui Joan’s Way, which also provides decluttering, downsizing and real estate staging. Connect at 203-260-7770 or FengShuiJoansWay.com. See ad, page 14.

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November 2021 23

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Grief and After Death Communications by Elizabeth Raver

s anyone who has lost a loved one knows, grieving can be extremely painful. Traditional grief therapy maintains that it is healthy for mourners to break their relationship with the belated in order to emotionally detach from grief. Mourners thereby “get on with it” by focusing on other areas in their life; not letting go can result in pathological grief. A number of bereavement researchers believe that this perspective demonstrates modern cultural values, which emphasizes the individual. Analyses of bereavement data indicate that mourners behave quite differently than Western protocols assume. Research indicates that it is normal for mourners to maintain a “continuing bond” with the deceased. By integrating the deceased into their everyday lives, mourners can facilitate healing and even enrich their lives. Relationships with the deceased can and do continue after death, albeit in a different form, according to research in Continuing Bonds: New Understandings of Grief. In the book Induced After-Death Communication, authors Allan Botkin and Craig Hogan describe how many researchers refer to continuing bonds as “inner representations of the deceased,” thereby sidestepping the question of life after death. However, the term “After Death Communications” (ADCs), coined by Bill and Judy Guggenheim in the popular book Hello From Heaven!, is now being openly used by a growing body of bereavement researchers. Research indicates that ADCs are common experiences. For example, a random American telephone survey found 62.6 percent of people have had ADCs in the form of “dreams, sounds, feeling a presence and having conversations”, as reported by Craig M. Klugman in a 2006 article, “Dead Men Talking: Evidence of Post Death Contact and Continuing Bonds”. A Pew Research Center survey found 29 percent of Americans report having had ADCs and that 74 percent believe in life after death. In an analysis of 35 ADC studies by Jenny Streit-Horn, the top five strongest papers indicate that an average of 34 percent of 24

Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

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people have experienced an ADC. A study reported by James A. Houck, “The Universal, Multiple and Exclusive Experiences of After-Death Communications”, found that 75 percent of surveyed Americans mourning the loss of someone from cancer, AIDS, suicide or a sudden and unexpected death, reported having sensed the presence of their belated loved one. This study also indicated that ADCs are experienced by people of all ages, genders, religions and educational backgrounds, regardless of the type of death or how much time has passed since the death. However, science still struggles to accept ADCs as normal and healthy. Consequently, many mourners dare not speak of ADC experiences to counselors, therapists or doctors; patients fear ridicule, undermining or a mental illness diagnosis. Fortunately, attitudes are beginning to change. In their book Loving Connections, research counselors Jane Bissler and Lisa Heiser describe a patient who had lost his wife and daughter. To treat his grief and ADCs, he was prescribed an anti-psychotic medication which produced “terrible” side effects. He stopped taking the drug and found a counselor open minded toward ADCs. “She and I spoke at length about the afterlife and she assured me my experiences were entirely valid. She encouraged me to embrace the experiences and not be resistant.”

Some religious groups still insist that ADCs are the work of the “devil” or “demons”. Some view it wrong for a deceased grandparent to communicate to a grieving grandchild that he/she is happy, healthy and living in a beautiful place. Ironically, many religions that consider ADCs unacceptable, encourage communication with Saints, according to Spiritual Medium Janet Nohavec. Such outdated perspectives are inconsistent with Streit-Horn’s research, which indicates that grieving could be greatly facilitated if professionals were more aware of the healing effects of ADCs. One explanation for professionals’ reticence in accepting that ADCs are normal and beneficial, is that the greatest skeptics have themselves never experienced an ADC, also known as “Exceptional Experiences”. Louis E. LaGrand, author of the study “The Nature and Therapeutic Implications of the Extraordinary Experiences of the Bereaved”, noted, “I know several professional counselors who harbored grave doubts about the veracity of extraordinary experiences as reported by clients—until

they were suddenly face to face with the extraordinary after the death of a husband or family member. The nature of their professional practices took an abrupt turn as they began to see the therapeutic value and personal meaning that the contact could have on the grief process.” ADCs occur in numerous ways. A “spontaneous” ADC could be a widower waking up one night to see his wife standing at the foot of his bed, bathed in light and smiling gently at him. “Requested” ADCs can be experienced through intent, prayer or meditation. “Induced” ADCs require a professional specifically trained in certain protocols like eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) or Loving Hearts Connections. “Assisted” ADCs require a skilled medium acting as an intermediary between clients and “spirit people”. Laboratory experiments using research certified mediums indicate that information received from mediums is valid—as reported in a 2015 study, “Anomalous information reception by research medi-

ums under blinded conditions II: replication and extension” and a 2011 study, “An Investigation of Mediums Who Claim to Give Information About Deceased Persons”. Science progresses by pushing the boundaries of what is “normal”. For centuries, Western culture believed that the solar system and universe revolved around a flat earth. Today we understand that a round earth revolves about the sun, the sun is part of a galaxy and the galaxy is part of the universe. Similarly, a growing body of research supports the idea that ADCs should be taken seriously, are not a form of mental illness and that mourners should be encouraged to talk about them in order to facilitate the healing process of grief. Elizabeth Raver, PhD, is a certified Spiritual Intuitive Life Coach and evidential medium in Fairfield County. She offers online sessions and classes via clients’/ students’ homes; phone or in-person meetings can be arranged. Connect at 203-400-9212, RavElizabeth516@gmail.com or DrLizMedium.com. See ad, page 4.

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healing ways

Healthy Brain Strategies How to Prevent Cognitive Decline

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by Linda Sechrist

healthy brain performs mental processes known as cognition, which is the acquiring of knowledge and understanding by means of thought, experience and the senses. This includes functions and systems such as memory, learning, language, problem solving, decision making, reasoning and intelligence. The aging process, a stroke or a brain injury can cause a mild to severe reduction in healthy brain 26

Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

functioning resulting in impaired memory and concentration, and difficulty in learning new things or making decisions that impact daily living. Functional medicine experts focused on preventive health care agree on the ABC’s for optimizing the brain and protecting against decline: eating a healthy diet, exercising, reducing inflammation and stress levels, balancing hormone levels, cultivating healthy relationships and getting enough restorative sleep. With their expertise, they are helping to shift the old paradigm of inevitable aging and cognitive decline into a new one based on the brain’s neuroplasticity. Harvard-trained neuroscientist Jill Bolte Taylor, author of the bestseller My Stroke of Insight and the recent Whole Brain Living, is a true poster child for demonstrating the brain’s neuroplasticity and ability to recover from a massive stroke. She writes about the congenital neurological brain disorder that became a problem when an arteriovenous malformation exploded in her brain’s left hemisphere. For four hours, she observed her brain functions systemically shutting down one by one. On the afternoon of her stroke, she could not walk, talk, read, write or recall any of her life. Eight years later, she was not only slalom waterskiing again, but also explaining to the world, “We are the life-force power of the universe, with manual dexterity and two cognitive minds. We have the power to choose, moment to moment, who and how we want to be in the world.” Devaki Lindsey Berkson, author of Sexy Brain, a hormone formulator and former researcher at Tulane University’s estrogen think tank, advises, “Most people think hormones are sexy, reproductive things and when they get older, they’re relieved that they don’t have to think about them. Not true. The body has a virtual physiological internet system. Hormones are the email signals to most cells. While the robustness of hormones and their signals affects lungs, gut, kidney and vocal cord health, it especially affects the brain. Balancing hormones with bioidentical hormones is one solution.” David Perlmutter, neurologist and co-author of Brain Wash, cites food as the biggest player in both brain and overall health in his books and PBS workshops. “Eating inappropriately causes intestinal permeability, resulting in inflammation, which in the brain, threatens good decision making—from deciding on the foods we eat to turning off our televisions at night, getting

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a good night’s rest, making sure that we exercise regularly and connecting with other people. Not good for the gut are dairy products, alcohol, highly processed foods that are low in fiber, high in sugar and refined carbohydrates, as well as antibiotics,” he says, adding that meditation and exposure to nature are powerful ways of reducing inflammation in the body and brain. As explained by neurologist Dale E. Bredesen, author of The End of Alzheimer’s, stress leads to an increase in cortisol levels that can be toxic to our brains—in particular the memory—consolidating the hippocampus, one of the first structures affected by Alzheimer’s. Studies show that high stress levels can also contribute to brain fog, involving difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness and mental fatigue. The Bredesen Protocol, available from health practitioners and online, includes exercising, eating a plant-based diet, supplementing to reduce insulin sensitivity and optimize cognitive function, reducing both gut inflammation and exposure to toxins, treating pathogens and optimizing sleep. HealthyBrains.org, Cleveland Clinic’s Healthy Brains Initiative, is an online resource center with information on how to manage brain health and create a brain span that matches a life span. It offers six pillars of brain health as explained by brain health experts, including exercise, sleep, relaxation, mental fitness and social interaction. Supplementing for brain health should be done wisely, says Mark Hyman, author of Food: What the Heck Should I Eat? and director of functional medicine at Cleveland Clinic. He recommends at the very least taking a multivitamin and mineral supplement, omega-3, extra vitamins B3, B6 and B12, folate and a good probiotic that enhances the brain-gut relationship. Mastery of the ABC’s in kindergarten is required as the foundation of language and a lifetime of learning. Living the fundamentals for a healthy brain can result in a brain span that equals our life span. Linda Sechrist is a Natural Awakenings senior staff writer. Connect at Linda Sechrist.com.

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The Toll of Stress on Our Cognitive Health and What We Can Do About It by Veena Verma-Dzik

nable to remember simple tasks, focus, sleep and having feelings of anxiety or depression? Stress will do that to us. There is a scientific reason why. Stress has a greater impact on the brain than most realize. Cortisol, our main stress hormone, is not necessarily a bad guy. We most certainly need it to get us going, or even light that fire under us to get things done. It is most certainly needed to regulate blood pressure, blood, glucose, metabolism and our immune system. It is when we are in a state of chronic stress, that cortisol becomes a problem.

What is happening to our brains? For most of us, the first sign of stress is when we forget the littlest things, like losing our keys, where we were that same morning or leaving the coffee on top of the car while 28

Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

driving. When we are under chronic stress, the structure of neurons and connections within the brain undergo changes. One of the most sensitive areas of the brain, the hippocampus, is very sensitive to stress. Not only does communication between this center of the brain and other areas become weakened, but imaging studies have shown that the volume of the hippocampus actually decreases in size as a result of chronic stress. Yes, that’s right, the brain shrinks. Other changes that occur in this area of the brain include changes in the supportive glial cells, decreased neurogenesis, changes in fluid volume and reduced neurogenesis. Since the hippocampus is responsible for emotional regulation, memory and learning, all of these become compromised. While our hippocampus is shrinking, the amygdala—the area of our brain that is responsible for emotions and response to eNaturalAwakenings.com

fear—is increasing in size, number of neural connections and activity level. Since it is a huge component of regulating our emotions, it is no wonder that as it increases in size, we become more anxious and fearful. To address the cognitive changes that are experienced during stress, we turn to the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain that is the most evolved and the most sensitive to stress. Under stress, the synaptic communication between neurons becomes altered, and, as a result, our ability to rationalize and think clearly is off the table. It does not stop at the brain shrinking. The prolonged, chronic stress that we are subjected to increases pro-inflammatory cytokines and free radicals, creating a leaky blood-brain barrier—which ultimately leads to a bigger entryway to pathogens, toxins and heavy metals, leading to chronic illnesses such as dementia, MS, cancer and more.

Addressing the stress Hope is not lost. Fortunately, there are so many things that we can do to help manage our stress, reduce cortisol and improve our cognitive health. Ashwagandha is a favorite medicinal herb. Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb that has been used in India for centuries for enhancing endurance, youthful vigor and overall health. The active ingredients in Ashwagandha, withanolides, not only balance out cortisol levels, but also are a great anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective and can mediate neurodegeneration during stress. Studies have shown that Ashwagandha is very helpful in alleviating anxiety and depression, improving mood, energy and the quality of sleep. It works wonderfully at addressing multiple concerns. Holy Basil, also known as Tulsi, is not just any plain adaptogen. This herb goes by other interesting names, such as The Incomparable One, Queen of Herbs and Liquid Yoga. It’s no wonder; Tulsi not only helps balance out the effects of chronic stress, but also produces a calming effect on the body, while at the same time enhancing memory and cognitive function. The great thing about Tulsi is that we don’t have to swallow a pill, but we can just sip on the tea during the day. When it comes to coping with stress in

a healthy manner, it is extremely vital to your health to incorporate healthy lifestyle habits on a day-to-day basis. Consuming a nutrient-rich diet is very beneficial. Getting adequate nutrition, particularly B vitamins, helps lower perceived stress and improves mood. Do not turn to comfort foods. Initially it may feel good, but in the end it will make things worse. There are numerous studies that have proven meditation to lower cortisol, reduce inflammation and improve cardiovascular and cognitive health. Exercise provides the same benefits, along with lower reactivity to stress. While on a walk, consider listening to a good podcast or some meditations. Progressive muscle relaxation is a great way to promote relaxation and reduce stress. While lying on the floor, close the eyes, take deep breaths and tighten and relax each muscle at a time. As we all know, getting adequate, restful sleep will also help us focus and cope with stress more effectively. Rather than being reactive, these daily habits help us be more proactive. If we are ever in a state where we are feeling too overwhelmed by stress, it’s

important not to isolate ourselves. Find a friend, be social, get a pet. Seeking a professional who specializes in therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or EMDR, have been proven to be very helpful in getting through difficult times. In a perfect, make-believe world, stress would be nonexistent. Although we cannot always control what goes on around us, we have the mindset and the capability to control how we perceive stressors and handle them in a way in which we can grow and become stronger from them.

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Dr. Veena Verma-Dzik, ND, FIAMA Naturopathic Doctor for Insight Counseling, is board-certified and a certified medical acupuncturist who is highly experienced in treating acute and chronic health conditions. Some of her specialties include women’s health, ADD/ADHD, GI conditions, MTHFR, Lyme disease and co-infections, mood imbalances, allergies, fatigue and hormonal imbalances. Connect at Insight Counseling, in Ridgefield, at 203-431-9726 and FairfieldNaturopathicHealth.com. See ad, page 19.

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November 2021 29

The Monthly Naturally Healthy Pet Section Starts Here!

News, articles, resources, events— all dedicated exclusively to happy, naturally healthy living for our furred, feathered and scaled animal companions. To contribute, email Editorial@eNaturalAwakenings.com.

Honoring the Loss of a Pet Simple Ways to Grieve and Heal by Marlaina Donato

rench novelist Anatole France’s sentiment, “Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened,” rings true for anyone that shares a love story with a beloved pet. Whether we lose a cat, dog, horse, bird or lizard, the final parting can be quite emotional. Society supports us with empathy and rituals of closure when we suffer the loss of a human love, but grieving an animal companion can be a uniquely silent passage. Surrendering fully to the mourning process, creating a joyful ceremony and celebrating the life of a loved one invites healing and solace.

Sacred Grief The animal-human alliance is hallmarked by the absence of emotional baggage, and is therefore capable of provoking grief that equals or exceeds losing a close relative. “This is a deep bond that is never judgmental on how we look, spend money or what we do for a living, as long as we love and nurture. And, in return, we receive undying, unconditional love,” says Pam Baren Kaplan, a pet loss grief counselor and life coach in Chicago. 30 30

Fairfield Fairfield & Southern County & Litchfield Housatonic Counties Valley Edition eNaturalAwakenings.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

Diane Stout, a pet parent and retired dog groomer in Paupack, Pennsylvania, knows the impact of this unconditional love, especially through life’s changes. “Long after a spouse has died and family have moved away to other lives and preoccupations, the family pet remains the faithful dinner or TV time companion,” she says. “A cherished pet is often the last true companion.” Cancelling appointments or taking time off from work after a pet’s passing does not connote emotional weakness. “Treat yourself with the same kindness you

would show another person going through this difficult time,” advises Cheryl Wyatt, a certified grief companion at Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice, a national network of veterinarians that provides compassionate end-of-life care. “Allow yourself the time to do your mourning work. Tears are cleansing. If they happen to come 10 hours or 10 years from now, you have permission to shed them.”

Compassionate Transitions Loving an animal until the last goodbye includes relieving their suffering to the best of our ability. In-home euthanasia can make a heartbreaking time more bearable for both pet and owner. “Providing beloved pets euthanasia at home differs from a clinical setting because it allows them to remain in their safe, happy place. At home, the veterinarian can greet the pet family and provide the loved one’s peaceful passing wherever they are most comfortable—a favorite bed or spot on the couch—surrounded by all those who love them most,” explains Wyatt. Pet funerals are becoming more common, and ceremonies are as unique as the animal remembered. Stories, poetry and memories can be shared by family and they can include a living memorial such as a tree planted in the animal’s name. Stout, also an accomplished artist, finds joy in painting her pets that have gone and suggests “a scrapbook of pictures and memories, because a look back at puppy or kitten pictures can bring an instant smile.” Kaplan agrees, “Creating what I refer to as ‘a legacy of love’ can be done by the

entire family or by one person. This is a book that you put together with favorite photos of your pet and journal the story around the photo. This is a great way to include family member’s memories from their perspective.” Choosing a unique, handmade vessel for ashes can honor an animal. Mary Jane Panebianco, owner of SpiritpetShop on Etsy.com, was inspired by the passing of a co-worker’s dog. “At the time, I worked in a mixed media art gallery, and she had one of our ceramic artists create her dog Sandy’s memorial urn. It was beautiful and so well done. I did some research on the pet industry, and everything I found was so commercial and mass-produced. I knew pets and their owners deserved another option.” Panebianco works with a small number of award-winning American artisans and accepts custom orders for handcrafted urns. “Many of my pet parents have told me how having a beautiful memorial for their beloved pet helps them make peace with their pet’s passing. It’s the last thing you will do for them.” In the beginning and in the end, it’s all about the love. For Stout, it’s what animals teach us. “To play and dance often, to give unconditional love, loyalty and friendship, to find joy in the little things, and that life is too often short.” Marlaina Donato is an author and recording artist. Connect at WildflowerLady.com.

Final Journey,

pet brief

Pet Supply Store Opens in Washington Depot

fter being weekenders to Litchfield County for 28 years, and moving to town permanently this year, Electa Varnish saw a need for a dog supply business in the neighborhood. Varnish opened Depot Dog, a boutique store at 11 Titus Road, in Washington Depot, with a mission of pet wellness. Depot Dog sells locally made products, including dog shampoo, treats and scented candles in exclusive, pet-centric scents, as well as felt pet caves. “We are committed to providing the best quality nutrition, necessities, products and information for cats and dogs throughout all their prospective life stages,” says Varnish. Depot Dog is also seeing plenty of local residents who have moved to the area from the city due to COVID. There has also been an increase in pet adoption that started during the beginning of the pandemic. Varnish wanted to open Depot Dog largely due to her family’s love of animals. Her family has a rescue dog named Fisher, who is featured in the store’s logo, and a rescue cat named Salizar. Varnish also hopes to provide customers with the ability to purchase items online through her website. For more information, call 860-619-0430 or visit DepotDogBoutique.com.

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We Are One.

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203-274-3267 • AnimalHealing@optonline.net January November 2021 2021 31 31

events calendar NOTE: All calendar events must be received online by the 10th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. No phone calls or faxes, please. Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com to submit online.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 4 Guided Meditation and Energy Healing at the Salt Cave of Darien – 6:30-7:45pm. Experience guided Meditation/Energy Healing with a practical twist lead by certified Reiki Master Practitioner and Wellness Coach Diane Nicosia. $65. Salt Cave of Darien, 555 Post Rd, Darien. 203-658-7667. SaltCaveofDarien.com.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7 New Age & Craft Expo – 10am-5pm. Reiki, massage, aura photos, crystals, oils. All your spiritual supplies. Handcrafted jewelry, soaps, spiritual art. Intuitive readers, two rooms of speakers, and much more! CDC Compliant. $5. Wyndham Southbury, 1284 Strongtown Rd, Southbury. $6 Admission. $1 off with this listing. Cryours87@yahoo.com.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 9 Tarot Certification Class with Maria Davis at The Angel Wing – 10am-3pm. A 78-card deck of Tarot is required. Bring your own or buy one at the Angel Coop. This course certifies you as a Tarot reader adding to your professional education. Certificate awarded. $99. The Angel Wing, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 11 Angel Circle: Archangel Raziel with Annalisa Breisler and Christy Abate – 11/11 at 12:301:45pm. 11/15 at 6:45pm. Discover how you can tap into the 9 angelic orders to heal, manifest and expand in your life. $20. The Angel Cooperative, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com. Source Energy Channeling with Aggregata Zupanova – 6:30-8pm. Source Energy Channeling (SEC) is a practice through which we awaken our divine essence. Awakening that essence is our main purpose in life. Sessions are supported with music that she finds beneficial for channeling Source energy. $65. Salt Cave of Darien, 555 Post Road, Darien. 203-658-7667. SaltCaveOfDarien.com.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12 Destiny Points through the Signs – 2-4pm. Destiny Points through the Signs Astrology Lecture with Carly Sensenbrenner and Pam Picard. $65. The Angel Cooperative, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 13 Introduction to Tuning Forks: The Alexander Method of Vibrational Sound Therapy with Lisa Alexander – 11am-12:30pm. In this workshop, the creator of the Alexander Method, Lisa Alexander, will share the background on what, how, and why of tuning forks. $35. The Angel Cooperative, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com.

Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

Using Tuning Forks in Your Healing Work, An In-depth Workshop with Lisa Alexander – 2-4:30pm. Led by the creator of the Alexander Method of Vibrational Sound and Energy Therapy. Lisa will teach about the latest science of energy, frequency, and vibration and how it works and applies to using tuning forks. Certificate of Completion awarded. $60. The Angel Cooperative, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com. Sonic Alchemy- 7-8:30pm. This sound healing meditation concert combines Bradford Tilden’s inspiring piano music, crystal bowls and channeled vocal tones to create a powerful activating, and healing experience. $20. Prepay with Venmo: @ronald-smith-419. $25/ cash at door. Avant Garde Holistic Center, Branford. 203-481-8443. AvantGardeCT13@yahoo.com. AvantGardeCT.com.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19 Rewilding Autumn Retreat – 3pm. 11/19, 11/20 & 11/21. Weekend retreat to dance, sing, meditate, contemplate, create in ceremony and ritual. S tay at the West Lane Inn where we will eat farm to table meals, participate in ceremony, receive healing treatments including Shamanic Reiki and Craniosacral Balancing, hike, weave, craft, forage, yoga, meditation, and more. Contact for full pricing. The West Lane Inn Boutique Hotel, 22 West Ln, Ridgefield. 203-438-7323. Kristy. Vanacore@kmvGroup.org. kmvGroup.org. Ann’s Place Festival of Trees – 11/19: 12-7pm. 11/20 & 11/21: 10am-5pm. Take a walk through a winter wonderland of hundreds of decorated trees and raffle prizes. Shopping, entertainment and much more. All proceeds go to Ann’s Place, serving local families facing cancer with counseling, support groups and wellness programs – all free of charge. $10; $5/seniors, 65+. The Summit at Danbury, 64 Triangle Street, Danbury. 203-731-3131. AnnsPlaceFestivalOfTrees.org.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 20 Ann’s Place Festival of Trees: Taps & Trees – 7-10pm. Ticket includes: Tastings in the Tap Room of beer and other libations; souvenir glass to first 400; dinner by the bite; dessert; live music plus admission into Festival of Trees $85 per ticket. The Summit at Danbury, 64 Triangle Street, Danbury. 203-731-3131. AnnsPlaceFestivalOfTrees.org.

markyourcalendar AWAKEN WELLNESS FAIR LIVE! …Awaken to Your Best Self… November 21 • 10am to 5pm So excited to be back in person! with appropriate safety measures. Unique Vendors, & expert Speakers, intuitive Readers & gifted Healers for a day of education and inspiration! Sleepy Hollow Hotel + Conference Center 455 So. Broadway – Rte. 9 Tarrytown, NY 10591 35 minutes from GCT on Metro North Tickets & Exhibitor info AwakenFair.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

The Archangel Experience and CD Release Party – 7-8:30pm. Come celebrate the release of Bradford Tilden’s latest album Archangel Meditations Part 1. Participants gets a free copy of the CD and two specially charged gemstones. 5 VIP spots available. $30-$50. Ticket: Tinyurl.com/AAExperience2021. Red Barn in Durham, 352 Main St, Durham. Contact Bradford: 860-830-5841, Info@CrystalMusicHealing.com.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 21 Finding the Hereafter in the Here and Now with Jacob Cooper – 2-4pm. Join Jacob Cooper Author of “Life After Breath” as he discusses his profound near-death experience as a child. Jacob will facilitate lessons, wisdom and tools to bring the infinite awareness of the soul into this finite body and moment. No charge. 51 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4 Universal White Time Gemstone Healing Level 3 – 12/4 & 12/5. 9am-6:30pm both days. This course focuses on preparing us for the Higher Vibrations of the New Earth. $400/Venmo: @BradfordTilden or Tinyurl.com/UWTGHL3Dec2021. Contact Bradford: 860-830-5841. Info@CrystalMusicHealing.com. Braulttree Wellness Center, Higganum. 860-344-9573 BraulttreeWellnessCenter.com.

ongoing events

sunday Naam Yoga Community Class – 9am-10:15am. With Deborah Clelland. Naam Yoga Class, outside in downtown Bethel near the gazebo. Please bring a mat, towel, water and chair if you need one.Sponsored by Bethel Parks and Recreation, The Municipal Center, Bethel. Donation: $10/ per person or $20/per family. Online Meditation Practice Session – 10-11am. While in-person meditation is limited due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are offering online meditation practice sessions and Dhamma talks using Zoom. All levels welcome. No formal charge. By donation. Center for Mindfulness & Insight Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org. Learn Energy Psychology in Classes and Healing Sessions – 10am-1pm. First Sunday. Learn the ways you can use color therapy and energy medicine techniques to create health, wellness, happiness and improve your body, mind and soul. Lessons guided by Energy Medicine Practitioner with over 20 years’ experience. No previous knowledge. Free. Congregation Rodeph Sholom, 2385 Park Ave, Bridgeport. 212-362-8800. Reserve: MicheleSValente@protonmail.com or 475-999-2180.

monday Salt Cave of Darien: Salt and Musical Guided Meditation with Christina Connors – 7:308:30pm. Nurture your body and soul in this unique salt therapy and musical guided meditation with healer and recording artist Christina Connors. To learn more, visit ChristinaConnors.com. $40. Salt Cave of Darien, 555 Post Rd, Darien. 203-658-7667. SaltCaveOfDarien.com.

tuesday

friday

Sound at the Station – 11:30am. First Tuesday. Lunchtime wellness sessions with Bobbi Soares of Hummingbird Sound Yoga. Gallery 25, New Milford Railroad station. 860-946-9470. BSoares@LightOfTheNewMoon.com.

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

wednesday Naam Yoga Community Class – 9am-10:15am. With Deborah Clelland. Naam Yoga Class, outside in downtown Bethel near the gazebo. Please bring a mat, towel, water and chair if you need one. Sponsored by Bethel Parks and Recreation, The Municipal Center, Bethel. Donation: $10/ per person or $20/per family. Sunset Meditation Cruise – 6-7pm. Raven Wellness Cruises offers Guided Meditation Sessions, Self-guided Meditation Sessions and Private Sunset Cruises. $35 per person. Private cruises accommodate up to six people, call for available dates. To book a spot, please call 203-208-0207 or email RavenWellnessCruises@ yahoo.com. Raven Wellness Cruises, Indian Point Rd, Branford. RavenWellnessCruises.com. Open Healing Arts Exchange – 6-8:30pm. Second Wednesday. Gather and experience each other’s unique healing modalities. While featuring White Time Energy and Gemstone healing, we welcome all practitioners and anyone interested in giving and receiving a healing and/or curious about the healing arts. $20. Braulttree Wellness Center, 415 Killingsworth Rd, Ste 9A, Higganum. 860-3449573. BraulttreeWellnessCenter.com. Salt Cave of Darien: Yin Yoga – 6:15-7:45pm. Limited to 4 people. Please bring your own yoga mat, blanket, towel, 2 blocks, if you have them and wear white socks and a mask. Join Jennifer Duncan, Certified Yoga Instructor, for a 90-minute Yin Yoga class. All levels class. Also via Zoom. $35/In-person; $17/from home. Reservations required. Salt Cave of Darien, 555 Post Rd, Darien. 203-658-7667. SaltCaveOfDarien.com. Online Meditation Practice Session – 7-8pm. While in-person meditation is limited due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are offering online meditation practice sessions and Dhamma talks using Zoom. All levels welcome. No formal charge. By donation. Center for Mindfulness & Insight Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org. Aleph Talks by Dr Bart Stuck and Rev Marjorie Partch – 7-9pm. An ongoing weekly online lecture series discussing linkages between science and religion through mysticism. Email BartStuck@gmail.com explaining why you wish to participate and will receive remote lecture access information. Offered through the Unitarian Church in Westport CT. No charge. AlephTalks.com.

thursday Gemstone Clinic – 7:30-9pm. Third Thursday. Experience gemstone treatments for only $10 each and learn about Universal White Time Healing and what it has to offer. RSVP preferred. Bradford: 860-8305841 or Info@CrystalMusicHealing.com. $10-$20. The Red Barn in Durham, 352 Main St, Durham. 860-358-9195. TheRedBarnInDurham.com.

Virtual: Yoga Dance Party Livestreamed – 8-9:15pm. Fourth Friday. Dance party to shake your soul, move your energy, emotions, and let it all flow. Short yoga warm up and cool down, ending with prayers and blessings for the well-being of all. Please register to get the Zoom link. $10. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-7301893. YogaSpace-CT.com/Events.

saturday Saturday Dharma and Morning Meditation – 7:308:15am. Every week we will discuss various works on topics such as self-study, meditation, self-improvement, mindfulness, joy and much more. The discussion will be followed by a 30-minute guided breath-based meditation. Proceeds are donated to our charity of the month. $10/cash. Yoga Culture, 105 Mill Plain Rd, Danbury. 203-730-0250. WeAreYogaCulture.com. One-Day Meditation Retreat – 9:30am-4pm. Second Saturday. Limited in-person meditation retreat. The extended practice is meant to deepen self-awareness and a previously established meditation practice is suggested. Please abide by guidelines listed on our events page. Must register online. By donation. Center for Mindfulness & Insight Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org. In-Person Meditation Practice Session – 10-11:30am. Limited in-person meditation practice offered on Saturday mornings. All levels welcome. If it’s your first time, please let someone know so that we can provide a brief introduction. Please abide by guidelines listed on our events page. MUST register online. Donations encouraged. Center for Mindfulness & Insight Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org. Reiki Second Degree Workshop: Online or InPerson – 10am-5pm. Fifth Saturday. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher (24 years). Learn Reiki Level 2 (Western Style). Learn how to send reiki distance healing, deepen your use of Reiki for yourself and others and more. Two manuals and certificate included. Also held on the last Friday. No drop-ins. $225. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReiki.com. Spiritual Connection & Evolution Class – 1-4pm. Second Saturday. Through teachings and practices, you will experience letting go of judgment, fear, shame and guilt. You will begin to replace limiting beliefs with empowering beliefs so you can live the life you really want. Facilitated by Mataji Katie Augustyn and assisted by Janet Terban Morris. COVID vaccination or recent negative test required. $87 for 1; $77 each for 3; $67 each for all 6. Transformation Center CT, 7 Reimer Rd, Westport. 203-820-3800. TransformationCenterCT.com.

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WEARABLE WELLNESS TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR WELL BEING WITH HEALY! Imagine a pocket-size device that can deliver over 144,000 healing frequencies. • Quantum sensor reads your energy vibration. • Transmits the exact balancing frequencies you need. • Microcurrent increases ATP, enhances cellular health. • Improves Wellbeing–Physical, Mental, Emotional. Call 203 767-5954 for free wellness experience or email Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com.

markyourcalendar NEW AGE & CRAFTS EXPO

Sponsored by Natural Awakenings magazine

Sunday, November 7 • 10am - 5pm Come Experience a Day of Spiritual & Creative Enlightenment Intuitive Readers • Aura Photos & Crystals Tibetan Singing Bowls • Healings Handcrafted Jewelry, Soaps, Oils Reiki Circle • Spiritual Art 2 Rooms of Dynamic Speakers and much more! Wyndham Southbury, 1284 Strongtown Rd, Southbury $6 Admission • $1 off with this coupon VENDOR SPACE STILL AVAILABLE 203-733-6560 • Cryours87@yahoo.com November 2021 33

community resource guide

EDUCATION

Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide email Advertising@eNaturalAwakenings.com to request our media kit.

ADHD & CHILD DEVELOPMENT BRAIN BALANCE CENTER

Dr. Mark Goldenberg 15 Cross St, Norwalk 203-547-3000 Norwalk@BrainBalanceCenters.com BrainBalanceNorwalk.com We help kids aged pre-K to 12th Grade who struggle behaviorally, socially, academically and who lack focus and attention. Brain Balance is a non-medical personalized program offered in-center or at-home. The program is designed to strengthen and improve brain connectivity so your child can find success in the classroom and unleash their untapped potential. See ad, page 2.

AMPCOIL CENTER AMPCOIL

Freddie Kimmel, Product Expert 95 Cross Hwy, Redding 833-267-2645 Freddie@AmpCoil.com AmpCoil.com Extraordinary Wellness! AmpCoil is an extraordinary system that delivers sound frequencies through PEMF to harmonize, balance, and support you on your journey to wellness. 90% of AmpCoil’s most active users reported that AmpCoil has been instrumental to their personal wellness, and over 55% reported that they experience relief from symptoms related to Lyme or other chronic conditions.

ART & HEALING SEDONA ART

Art Supplies & More Marge Courtney, Owner 450 Main St, Ridgefield SedonaArt.net The expressive arts are alive and well at Sedona Art. Inspiration and supplies for artists, and creative types of all ages. Art and spirit inspired workshops, events and artist talks. We can’t wait to meet you and see what you’re creating. See ads, pages 16 and 22.

Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

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

A combination of Ayurveda and Naturopathy is used to create a unique treatment plan to regain and maintain health. Based on one’s particular body constitution (dosha), a plan may include supplements, diet/ nutrition suggestions, lifestyle management, detoxification, hydrotherapy, 0zone therapy, Panchakarma. See ad, page 12.

BIRTH AND POSTPARTUM CARE BIRTH PARTNERS DOULAS OF CONNECTICUT 203-718-6512 lnfo@birthpartnersdoulas.com BirthPartnersDoulas.com

Not Just doulas... Birth Partners! Proudly serving clients for over 30 years, providing quality birth and postpartum doula care. Contact us anytime for more information.

EMBODY THE SACRED

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

ENDOMETRIOSIS HAYLI’S HERBS, LLC Hayli Hartman Master Herbalist HaylisHerbs.com

I provide online Herbal Consultations for the symptoms of Endometriosis, Uterine Fibroids, Ovarian Cysts, and Infertility. I put together herbal combinations specific to your individual needs to help reduce and often eliminate the above listed symptoms. Please go to HaylisHerbs.com for more information and to schedule a free 15 minute pre-consultation.

ENERGY HEALING CALMING CROW NATURAL HEALING Amanda Hynes, Reiki Master, Cert N.H. Terryville 203-231-9709 Facebook: @calmingcrownaturalhealing CalmingCrowNaturalHealing@gmail.com

I am a Natural Healer and Empath. Sessions available for Reiki, Crystal Energy Healing, Chakra Balancing (w/pendulum work) and Guided Meditation. I also offer crystals, eye pillows and hand-made items to bolster any session.

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

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

eNaturalAwakenings.com

BETH LEAS

Transformative Healing • Tarot Virtual and In-Person Sessions 203-856-9566 BethLeas.com If not now, when? Inspire change on all levels—greater physical ease, emotional freedom, peace of mind and spiritual connection. 30+ years of intuitive healing experience with adults and children of all ages. Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tarot. See ad, page 2.

THE MIND & BREATHING EDGE Alexia Clonda Stamford and Online 607-319-9161 MindBreathingEdge@gmail.com Clonda.cc

I am a Mindset Human Growth Mentor, Breathing Coach, utilizing ThetaHealing. I have been a ThetaHealing practitioner since 2010 and teacher since 2012 and have helped and witnessed many people clear limiting beliefs and issues enabling them to move forward in their lives with happiness, renewed confidence and clarity. I will provide you with the tools and resources to become the best version of you. See ad, page 2.

STILLPOINT HEALING THERAPIES Sheila LaSella 1885 Post Rd, Fairfield 203-927-4055 StillpointHealingCT@gmail.com StillpointHealing.abmp.com

I am a Polarity Therapist, Licensed Massage Therapist and Card Reader with an extensive background in meditation and mindfulness. I help you let go of fear, trauma, anxiety, depression and stress and connect with your inner healer, joy, truth, power and wisdom in a gentle way. See ad, page 2.

ESSENTIAL OILS WAYNE LEISS, LMT, CAO 20 Fifth Ave, Apt A, Danbury 203-994-1207 Wayne@WayneLeiss.com WayneLeiss.com

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

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

INTEGRATIVE NATURAL MEDICINE

TAMARA SACHS, MD

Functional Medicine and Integrative Care LLC 15 Bennitt St, New Milford 860-354-3304 TSachsMD.com Using Functional Medicine, Dr. Sachs prevents and treats chronic illnesses by addressing their underlying root causes, remaining respectful of the uniqueness, complexity and intuitions that make us human. Trained at Mt. Sinai Medical School and Yale University Hospital in Internal Medicine, in 2003 she opened Functional Medicine and Integrative Care LLC. She has great success with IBS, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue, autoimmune problems, toxicity and more, by creating individualized, realistic and comprehensive personalized wellness plans. She consults in her New Milford, CT office, and also by phone or video using telemedicine.

HOLISTIC NETWORKING HOLISTIC COMMUNITY PROFESSIONALS

Shirley R. Bloethe, Executive Director 860-255-8844 HCPinc.ORG@gmail.com HolisticCommunityProfessionals.org Holistic Community Professionals is an organization of holistic practitioners and businesses focused on improving health and wellness with products and services throughout New England. We also connect consumers with a wide variety of modalities, holistic products, and services as well as offering two EXPOs a year at The DoubleTree by Hilton in Bristol. See website for details. See ad, page 4.

HYPNOTIST LESLIE MILLER

Certified Hypnotist, National Guild of Hypnotism Throughout Connecticut sixthscentstosuccess@gmail.com 203-664-1870 Cell: 914-373-9065 Quit smoking, lose weight and free yourself of fear, anxiety and phobias through hypnotherapy with Leslie Miller the Hypnosis Healer. Leslie is a certified hypnotist certified by the National Guild of Hypnosis who has practiced for eight years. Free 15-minute consultation. Discounted packages available.

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

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PHYSICIAN HENRY C. SOBO, MD

Optimal Health Medical LLC 111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-348-8805 DrSobo.com Advances in Regenerative Medicine allow Dr. Sobo to offer cutting-edge technologies such as PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) treatments and adult stem cell therapy. Dr. Sobo’s integrative approach addresses a variety of conditions such as: food allergies, Alzheimer’s/ dementia, chronic fatigue syndrome, weight loss, hormonal health, fibromyalgia, anti-aging medicine, and MTHFR-Genetic Mutation. See ad, page 25.

INTEGRATIVE OPTOMETRY EYECARE ASSOCIATES, PC

Dr. Randy Schulman, MS, OD, FCOVD Dr. Justin Rapp Dr. Jacqueline Benoit Dr. Jason Grygier Dr. Diana Ngo Dr. Sonia Singh Locations: 6515 Main St, Trumbull • 203-374-2020 444 Westport Ave, Norwalk • 203-840-1991 2600 Post Rd, Southport • 203-255-4005 1425 Bedford St, 1M, Stamford • 203-357-0204 CTEyeCareAssociates.com We offer behavioral optometry, comprehensive vision exams, contact lenses and vision therapy. See ad, page 27.

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Love the trees until their leaves fall off, then encourage them to try again next year. ~Chad Sugg November 2021 35

LIFE COACH/HYPNOTIST THEA LITSIOS, CHy

Life Coach, Hypnotist, Teacher of Active Dreaming Remote sessions available TheaLitsios.com 203-693-1493 My specialty is to help individuals who have an inner stirring that says, “Something has to change”. Using skills as a life coach, hypnotist and teacher of Active Dreaming, I assist my clients in reinventing themselves, and creating the life they dream of. Call for a free 30-minute consultation. See ad, page 2.

LYME DISEASE MARVIN P. SCHWEITZER, ND AMY WIESNER, ND, LAC Wellness Institute 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203-847-2788 DrMarvinSchweitzer.com

We help you unleash your own body’s ability to heal. Cutting-edge evaluations and 25+ years experience help to determine precisely which individualized therapies – including energy medicine, oxygen therapies, acupuncture, homeopathy, botanicals, nutrition, allergy/toxin testing and treatment are used to nourish, cleanse, balance and repair. We collaborate with you in a caring environment. See ad, page 9.

MASSAGE THERAPIST KEEP CALM AND HEAL

Natalia K Gioli. LMT In home services 917-415-2451 NatigiTherapies@gmail.com KeepCalmAndHeal.com Licensed in the states of NY and CT, specialized in Medical and Therapeutic Massages! Provide in home services and my goal with massage is to be able to help in the relief of pain, muscle tension and overall stress.

Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

MEDICAL CENTER BLACK ROCK HOLISTIC HEALTH CENTER

Dr. Kristine DeMarco Acupuncture • Chiropractic • Organic CBD 4 Calderwood Ct, Black Rock 203-333-6544 DeMarcoChiropractic.com BlackRockHolisticCBD.com The Black Rock Holistic Health Center is owned and operated by Dr. Kristine DeMarco, Chiropractic Physician, Certified Acupuncturist, Masters in Nutrition and Certifications in Cox Decompression Technique and Graston Technique. They also offer Organic CBD oil and buds to help deal with pain, anxiety, stress and insomnia. Full Spectrum CBD oil and buds from hemp seeds grown by Dr. Demarco herself on a family farm in Washington County, NY.

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

We teach and practice Mahasati meditation. Mahasati meditation cultivates selfawareness through attention to the movement of the body and, at more advanced levels, to the movement of the mind. No prior meditating experience is necessary. Ongoing weekly meditation classes, retreats and events. Please check monthly event calendar or visit ReddingMeditation.org for updated information.

METABOLIC/WEIGHT OPTIMIZATION MARVIN P. SCHWEITZER, ND AMY WIESNER, ND, LAC Wellness Institute 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203-847-2788 DrMarvinSchweitzer.com

eNaturalAwakenings.com

METAPHYSICAL STORE THE ANGEL COOPERATIVE

51 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte. 7), Ridgefield 203-431-2959 TheAngelCoop.com Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube The Angel Cooperative is a unique lifestyle boutique featuring the first and only Shungite room in the USA. Wide selection of crystals, jewelry, candles, essential oils and soaps. Spiritual gifts, statuary, oracle decks and tarot and home décor. Available in The Shungite Room: readings, Reiki, meditation, sound therapy, energy work, sound and gong baths, and workshops. See ad, page 29.

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

A combination of Ayurveda and Naturopathy is used to create a unique treatment plan to regain and maintain health. Based on one’s particular body constitution (dosha), a plan may include supplements, diet/nutrition suggestions, lifestyle management, detoxification, hydrotherapy, 0zone therapy, Panchakarma. See ad, page 12.

NICOLE KLUGHERS, ND, PHARMD, MSAC

Vis Wellness Center Rocky Hill & TeleMedicine Statewide (234)2-ACU-DOC DrNicoleKlughers.com Info@DrNicoleKlughers.com Dr. Nicole Klughers offers comprehensive naturopathic care to restore optimal health and prevent disease. Dr. Nicole’s “health detective” approach identifies the root cause of symptoms and provides all-natural solutions with personalized “Food as Medicine,” herbal medicine, nutrient therapies, acupuncture and more. In-depth assessment is often done with detailed testing of vitamins/minerals, hormones, advanced cardiovascular markers, inflammation, food intolerances, gut/microbiome health and more. See ad, page 4.

MARVIN P. SCHWEITZER, ND AMY WIESNER, ND, LAC Wellness Institute 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203-847-2788 DrMarvinSchweitzer.com

NON-DENOMINATIONAL CEREMONIES HUMMINGBIRD SOUND YOGA LLC

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares New Milford • Remote Zoom/FT Sessions 860-946-9470 BSoares@LightOfTheNewMoon.com HummingbirdSoundYoga.com WiseFishWorld.com Facebook @HummingbirdSoundYoga Barbara (Bobbi) Soares, MA, CYT, is a sound yoga and vocal yoga teacher, blues/jazz singer, and Reiki master, certified in several modalities of energy and sound healing. As an ordained minister and sound healer, She will be offering non-denominational sacred sound ceremonies for weddings and other rites of passage. Bobbi’s band Hummingbird and Friends is well known for their eclectic blend of chants, jazz, blues, reggae and country. She has studied vocal improvisation with Bobby McFerrin, vocal yoga with Heather Lyle and sound healing with Silvia Nakkach, John Beaulieu and Don Conreaux. See ad, page 15.

PSYCHOTHERAPY

HOLISTIC NEW DAY COUNSELING SERVICES

Jessica Lima, MS, LCSW Holistic Psychotherapy/Coaching 158 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-260-5769 HolisticNewDay@gmail.com Jessica will align with you on your journey to emotional and physical well-being. Combining her traditional psychotherapy background with her certification in integrative healing, she will work with you in exploring a more holistic approach to feelings of anxiety, depression, stress and more.

NANCY SCHERLONG, LCSW

Coaching/Psychotherapy/Consulting Offices in Norwalk and Ridgefield 914-572-3167 WellnessMetaphors.com Manage stress with relaxation techniques. Rediscover your creativity through writing and the expressive arts. Resolve trauma with EMDR, IFS or SE. Or book an experiential workshop! Nancy has over 20 years of experience with children, families, groups, adults and corporate wellness programs. See ad, page 22.

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

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

JOYFUL LIVING REIKI LLC

Gail Christie, Holy Fire Reiki Master Stamford 203-979-0918 JoyfulLivingReiki.com Gail will help you balance your energy and bring balance to your life with Holy Fire Reiki. She offers gently powerful Holy Fire healing sessions, Reiki-infused meditations and Usui/Holy Fire and Karuna Reiki certification classes. See ad, page 2.

SOUND HEALING HUMMINGBIRD SOUND YOGA LLC

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares New Milford • Remote Zoom/FT Sessions 860-946-9470 BSoares@LightOfTheNewMoon.com HummingbirdSoundYoga.com WiseFishWorld.com Facebook @HummingbirdSoundYoga We live in an ocean of sound and vibration, constantly changing and affecting our body’s unique natural resonance. Many types of stress cause this resonance to get out of tune. Hummingbird Sound Yoga explores and restores this resonance by shifting awareness to where the body is out of tune. Using earth, dance and symphonic gongs, bowls, tuning forks and humming-for-health meditations, a deep relaxation response balances energy and retunes and reconnects our natural resonance. Barbara (Bobbi) Soares, MA, CYT, is a sound yoga and vocal yoga teacher, blues/jazz singer, and Reiki master, certified in several modalities of energy and sound healing. See ad, page 15.

TRANSFORMATIVE HEALING KATIE AUGUSTYN, MA, CPC

Transformation Coach Shamanic Healer TransformationCenterCT.com 203-820-3800 TransformationCenterCT@gmail.com Katie will assist you in reaching your true potential and heal what has been holding you back. You will experience real selfacceptance and start to live in alignment with who you truly are so you can create a life you love, a life of meaning and purpose. See ad, page 2.

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.

BETH LEAS

Give thanks not just on Thanksgiving Day, but every day of your life. Appreciate and never take for granted all that you have. ~Catherine Pulsifer November 2021 37

TRANSFORMATIVE HEALING LIGHTER & BRIGHTER WELLNESS Susan Ahlstrom, MS Counseling, EFT Practitioner, Reiki Master 452 Main St, Ridgefield 401-232-4514 LighterAndBrighterWellness.com

Susan Ahlstrom is a Certified EFT Practitioner. She incorporates energy practices and the expressive arts to support mental health. Her fun approach to healing helps children and adults learn self-care skills to lessen anxiety and improve overall well-being. See ad, page 2.

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

Eilis is a master healer and teacher and certified in numerous modalities as both a practitioner and teacher. She offers soul level healing, which clears any blocks, obstacles and challenges that are preventing you from living your life to its fullest potential. See ad, page 12.

UNIVERSAL WHITE TIME, CRYSTAL & SOUND HEALING

WELLNESS & GIFTS TOUCH OF SEDONA

Gifts, Crystals, Native American Art & Jewelry, Intuitive Readings Marge Courtney, Owner 452 Main St, Ridgefield 203-438-7146 Facebook.com/TouchOfSedona A unique spiritual boutique offering gifts, healing inspiration and the energy of the American Southwest. Come explore Native American art and jewelry, crystals, chimes, candles, incense, books and more. Check out our schedule of intuitive readers, guides and more! See ad, page 16.

WELLNESS CENTER THE ANGEL WING, A DIVINE SPIRITUAL CENTER

Located next door to The Angel Cooperative 49 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte. 7), Ridgefield 203-431-2959 TheAngelCoop.com Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube The Angel Wing hosts workshops, yoga classes, retreats, energy work sessions, readings, Reiki sound and gong baths, and guided meditations. It is available to rent on an hourly, daily, weekly or monthly basis. Optional rental spaces include a large open room and/or an intimate private room with massage/Reiki table. See ad, page 29.

SALT CAVE OF DARIEN

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

Our wellness destination offers a rich line up of therapies to help you de-stress, detox, and improve overall health. With choices like salt cave sessions, special events with local healers, massage and spa services, and classes, you will find many ways to breathe in the anti-inflammatory salt air for double the benefits. Our enchanting salt cave and salt room is a soothing space carved out of pure Himalayan salt where you’ll enjoy an oasis of peace, calm and serenity. See ad, page 2.

YOGA: SOUND AND VOCAL HUMMINGBIRD SOUND YOGA LLC

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares New Milford • Remote Zoom/FT Sessions 860-946-9470 BSoares@LightOfTheNewMoon.com HummingbirdSoundYoga.com WiseFishWorld.com Facebook @HummingbirdSoundYoga Barbara (Bobbi) Soares, MA, CYT, is a sound yoga and vocal yoga teacher, blues/jazz singer, and Reiki master, certified in several modalities of energy and sound healing. She offers hummingbird sound yoga and sound healing immersions for groups and private sessions in person & online. Her goal is to help individuals experience becoming “one with sound” to promote a deep relaxation response that balances energy and encourages healing. See ad, page 15.

CRYSTAL MUSIC HEALING Bradford Tilden, MM, CMT, UWT Remote: Phone or Zoom 860-830-5841 Info@CrystalMusicHealing.com CrystalMusicHealing.com

My goal is to empower you to develop spiritually and professionally. I offer UWT energy and gemstone healing with guided visualization for spiritual healing and self-actualization, and transformational voice activation coaching sessions. I teach certification classes in Universal White Time (UWT), Lemurian Intuitive (LSINH), Crystal, and Sound Healing. I use these techniques, and more to help you to obtain authentic expression, empowerment, and transformation. You can purchase personally attuned crystals and gemstones through me. My clients and students gain a renewed clarity and a sense of purpose as they perceive their truth and remove blockages that distort their perception. Contact me for a free 30 minute consultation. See ad, page 4.

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COMING IN FEBRUARY Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

2022 NATURAL LIVING

LT Y H OU Y P RH LA N EA E LT T R HY E S LI O V U IN R G C , E G U

November 2021 Natural Awakenings Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties CT

Articles inside

THE TOLL OF STRESS ON OUR COGNITIVE HEALTH AND WHAT WE CAN DO ABOUT IT

WHEN YOU WERE BORN

ENSURING MORE POSITIVE END-OF- LIFE EXPERIENCES

DYING WELL

SACRED DANCE

GRIEF AND AFTER DEATH COMMUNICATIONS

EAT WELL TO FEEL WELL