Natural Awakenings Fairfield County December 2015

H E A L T H Y

FREE

L I V I N G

H E A L T H Y

P L A N E T

feel good • live simply • laugh more

SPECIAL EDITION

Body-Mind-Spirit

Trust the Source, Tame the Intellect

Awakening the Spirit with Prayer and Meditation Goodbye Inner Critic, Hello Healthy Body Image Creative Expression with Mandalas and SoulCollage Massage Improves Mental Health

What’s Your Child’sHowEQ? to Raise Emotional Intelligence

Festive Holiday Treats No-Sugar, No-Bake, No Guilt

December 2015 | Fairfield County Edition | eNaturalAwakenings.com

The Natural Choice – The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center

Optimize Your Smile and Your Health!

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

Mark A. Breiner, DDS

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

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

WholeBodyDentistry.com 203-371-0300

501 Kings Highway East, Suite 108, Fairfield CT

Doesn’t it make sense to see the authority?

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

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

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

Learn more about our approach. Watch our new therapy videos – all on our website!

We can help you get your health back in balance naturally with proven treatments and therapies:

From left to right:

Dr. Adam Breiner, ND, Director Dr. Elena Sokolova, MD, ND & Dr. David M. Brady, ND, CCN, DACBN

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) EEG Neurofeedback Acupuncture Chinese Medicine Homeopathy Energy Medicine Electrodermal Screening Metabolic Typing

WholeBodyMed.com 203-371-8258

Functional Medicine Colon Hydrotherapy Natural Hormone Therapy Herbal Medicine Nutritional Assessment Allergy Desensitization FDA-cleared Phototherapy Detoxification Abdominal Manual Therapy

FREE CDs on our Whole-Body approach to Lyme Disease.

Call now for details.

501 Kings Highway East, Suite 108, Fairfield CT

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

natural awakenings

The Wisdom of Integrative Natural Medicine

Our unique approach blends the centuries-old wisdom of Chinese Medicine with proven principles of Naturopathic Medicine.

We very often succeed when other treatments have failed.

80% of patients come to us when nothing else has worked.

Please don’t wait that long… we can help you or your loved one feel better NOW! What INM Can Offer You Acupuncture • Tui Na Therapeutic Massage • Dietary Therapy • Herbal and Nutriceutical Medicine Lifestyle Counseling • Mind/Body Therapy • Annual Physicals for School or Work • Cutting-edge Laboratory Testing

Our Mission is to help you learn to repair, improve, and preserve your health, without drugs.

Health Conditions We Treat

Left to right: Craig Pannone, ND, Naturopathic Physician Bruce Roff, L.Ac., LMT, Senior Associate Ken Hoffman, D.Ac., (RI), L.Ac., CCH, Medical Director

Eye, Ear, Nose, and Throat Disorders Emotional and Psychological Disorders Gastrointestinal Disorders Gynecological and Genitourinary Disorders Musculoskeletal and Neurological Disorders Circulatory Disorders Respiratory Disorders Addiction Immune Disorders

Visit our website for a full explanation of our medical system at: www.inm.center

Call 203-740-9300 to receive a no-cost consultation.

We will assess your health and develop a strategy to help you!

SOPHIA Natural Health Center • 31 Old Route 7 • Brookfield, CT 06804 203-740-9300 • www.inm.center • Most Insurance Accepted December 2015 eNaturalAwakenings.com

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

15 7 newsbriefs 15 healthbriefs 18 globalbriefs 45 therapyspotlight 20 BODY OVER MIND 30 50 inspiredtable

Trust the Source, Tame the Intellect

52 consciouseating 18 55 masteringyoga 22 THE MIND-BODY CONNECTION 57 fitbody

58 healthykids 63 naturallyhealthypet 30 GOODBYE INNER CRITIC, HELLO 66 naturalpet HEALTHY BODY IMAGE

Mindful Awareness is Freeing 68 calendar 38 66

72 classifieds 38 AWAKENING TO SPIRIT 73 resourceguide Prayer and Meditation 78 cosmicrhythms Heal and Free Us

78 displayadindex 44 MANDALAS, MEDITATION advertising & submissions

by Yudit Maros

by Angela Pascopella

by Carol Shear

by Richard Davenport

AND MANIFESTING

by Meg Reilly

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

Deadline for ads: the 12th of the month.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com.

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

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com.

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

REGIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets!

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

eNaturalAwakenings.com 4

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

48 INTENTIONAL TOUCH 44

FOR ANXIETY DISORDERS

Massage Research Proves Mental Health Benefits

by Lorraine Gengo

52 SWEETLY VEGAN

No-Bake Holiday Treats

by Judith Fertig

58 WHAT’S YOUR CHILD’S EQ?

Six Ways to Raise

Emotional Intelligence

Meg Reilly, MegReilly360.com

34

by Teal Swan

60 GIFTS WITH GREAT INTENTIONS

Spiritually Charged Items Invite Belief

by Sheri Hatfield

52

COMING IN FEBRUARY 2016

Natural Awakenings’

Annual Directory Issues Fairfield & New Haven Editions

DOUBLE DIRECTORY SPECIAL

Early Pricin Until g Dec. 1 2

Reach more than 100,000 readers in the Fairfield/Litchfield and New Haven/Middlesex CT regions! Advertise your business year-round in two Natural Awakenings’ annual directory issues!

Readers are seeking goods and services covering the following: • Creative Expression • Fitness • Green Living • Healthy Pet Solutions

• Natural Health & Wellness • Nutrition • Organic Food & Dining • Personal Growth

• Relationship Counseling • Spiritual Guidance • Sustainable Products • Wealth Management

Early Bird pricing valid until December 12, 2015 EARLY BIRD RATES $198 for two listings, one per edition Second Listing = $125 for two listings, one per edition Third listings FREE AFTER EARLY BIRD DEADLINE $250 for two listings, one per edition Second listing = $125 for two listings, one per edition Third listings in each edition FREE

Final deadline to be included in either directory is January 12

Fairfield Edition • eNaturalAwakenings.com • 203-885-4674 New Haven Edition • NaturalNewHaven.com • 203-988-1808 eNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2015

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letterfrompublisher

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contact us Publisher/Executive Editor Nicole Miale Editor Ariana Rawls Fine Design & Production Kathleen Fellows Erica Mills Contributing Writers Lorraine Gengo, Sheri Hatfield, Mary Oquendo, Angela Pascopella, Meg Reilly, Linda Ross, Urgyan Community Street Team Leslie McLean Sales & Marketing Alexa Ferrucci Robert Grady Nicole Miale Distribution Man in Motion LLC Natural Awakenings Fairfield County 54 Danbury Rd, Ste 323 Ridgefield, CT 06877 Phone: 203-885-4674 Fax: 203-516-2392 NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com eNaturalAwakenings.com NAWebstore.com NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com © 2015 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved.

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

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

he mission of Natural Awakenings each month is to empower, challenge—leave that comfort zone!—and support our readers in their efforts to make their lives the best they can be. This is so important now, with our world in turmoil and many places and people experiencing deep pain, loss and division. More than ever, this holiday season seems like a time to seek guidance, comfort and peace, from inside as well as outside ourselves.

Repairing division is part of the theme of this issue; it is most certainly timely. The belief that there was sound reason to separate the care of mind and body remains Nicole Miale one of the most foolhardy constructs upon which our fragmented conventional healthcare system was based.

Fortunately, there are now whole tracks of scientific inquiry dedicated to disproving this belief, providing mounting evidence about just how connected our minds and bodies truly are. In this issue, we asked a host of experts to weigh in on the relationship between body, mind and spirit; implications for health and well-being; and strategies for strengthening our connection to our own selves.

We explore various methods of meditation and creative expression—proven tools for enhancing body-mind-spirit alignment—as well as the power of prayer, the original ancient healing method.

Along with these inspiring articles, we feature profiles throughout the issue of some wonderful practitioners and spiritual centers in our local community. These professionals and organizations—as well as advertisers and article contributors— can all help you attend to the needs of your whole being, whether the need is physical, emotional or sacred.

I wish you the happiest of holidays, filled with both earthly pleasures that please the body and quiet, mindful moments of grace to soothe the mind and spirit. Perhaps our paths will cross at some of the many holiday events taking place this month; be sure to check out the ads, news briefs and calendar of events to help plan your schedule! These can be wonderful opportunities for positive connection and heartfelt community; please take advantage of them during these challenging days.

As 2015 comes to a close, I am reminded yet again how very blessed I am to be doing something I love and how grateful I am to have the opportunity to serve my community as a bridge and a sherpa. I extend a heartfelt thank you to all of you for reading, distributing and advertising in Natural Awakenings. Our expansion over the past few years is a direct reflection of the dynamism of this area and the people working within it. Every page is infused with intention and created with this specific community in mind; your response to our work tells us we’re on the right track. Thank you!

With love and light, and my warmest wishes for a wonderful holiday season and new year,

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

We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

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

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

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Fairfield County Edition

See our advertiser index on page 78.

Making it easier to find the resources you need.

natural awakenings

newsbriefs Holiday Sale and Celebration in Greenwich

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n December 5, the Lotus Wellness Center healing sanctuary will hold its Annual Holiday Sale & Celebration.

Many local artists and practitioners will be present, selling their works of artistry and offering mini sessions. Some products and services include healing gemstone jewelry, pottery, photography, paintings, aromatherapy products, organic tinctures, 2016 calendars, crystals and gemstones, Swarovski feng shui adjustment items, gift certificates, sessions and more.

This year, practitioners will be offering mini-healing sessions and readings including bio-energetics, Feldenkrais, chakra healing, intuitive high energy frequency infusion tuneups, massage for stress relief, and spiritual astrology and aura readings with tarot as well as numerology readings for 2016.

Join the community gathering and share complimentary hot apple cider, herbal tea and baked goods. Admission is free.

For more information, email Info@LotusWellnessCtr.com or call 203-531-4784. Location: Lotus Wellness Center, 46 Pemberwick Rd, Greenwich.

TLC Center Winter Solstice Event with Free Candlelight Meditation

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elebrate the holiday season on December 21 at Total Life Care Center’s (TLC) Open House from 4 to 9pm with a free candlelight meditation taking place from 7 to 8:30pm.

ProMindful.org is generously sponsoring the event. The TLC community in Norwalk will be on hand offering mini-energy balancing sessions, massages and tarot readings as well as last-minute gifts and gift certificates. As a special bonus, all TLC gift certificates will be 50 percent off during the Open House only.

Founding director and transformative healer, Beth Prins Leas, will be offering the free candlelight meditation to help us remember the reason for the season as we honor the year that has passed while igniting our deepest intentions for the year ahead.

For more information, visit TLCCenter.com or BethLeas.com, or call 203-856-9566. Register for the Candlelight Meditation by emailing TLCCenter@aol.com. Location: Total Life Care Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. See ad, page 16.

Natural

Healthcare Alternatives Family Based Chiropractic Care

Specializing In Infants, Children, and Pre and Postnatal Women

Pre and Postnatal Women

Back, Pelvic, Neck, Shoulder, and Arm Pain • Headaches Carpal Tunnel Syndrome • Improve spinal and pelvic alignment to help babies in the breech or occiput posterior "sunny side up" presentations • Reduce The Incidence of C-Section

Children

Ear Infections • Asthma & Allergies • Scoliosis • Colic Reflux • ADHD • Sports Injuries • Torticollis Lactation Issues / Tongue-Tie Complications

Dr. Risa M. Sloves

Dr. Sloves has 25 years of experience and is one of the only Chiropractic Physicians in Connecticut with Board Certification in Maternity and Pediatric Care.

Call 203-838-1555

Associates in Family Chiropractic 156 East Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06851 www.ctChiropractic.com

Bramasolė

Mobile Fitness & Wellness Yoga • Tai Chi • Reflexology Massage • Reiki • Meditation Training Personal Fitness On The Road No need to travel to the Gym or Yoga Studio…

I will come to you!

Elizabeth D. Aleksinas Certified Fitness Trainer, AFAA Yoga Instructor, RYT, Reiki Master Teacher Mindfulness Meditation Teacher

860-567-0219 For Studio Hours Visit www.bramasolewellness.com

We Bring Health & Wellness To You! eNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2015

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newsbriefs

Publishing Milestone for Power Abused, Power Healed

Conscious Craft Trunk Show

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oin Embody the Sacred, Elysian Life Design, Hands And Paws Reiki For All and Elemental Mercury for a holiday trunk show offering spiritually minded gifts to enhance and heal the body, mind and soul. The holiday craft show will take place on December 5 from noon to 4pm at Acupuncture Works in New Fairfield.

A raffle will be held at the show with the chance to win a grand prize of a basket full of gifts valued at more than $100. Win gift certificates valued at $60 for customized jewelry, healing services or products. All raffle proceeds and a percentage of craft sales will go to the following charities: Education & Hope, CT Food Bank, New Fairfield Thrift Shop, The Women’s Center of Greater Danbury, Loaves & Fishes Hospitality House and New Fairfield/Sherman Animal Welfare.

For more information, visit EmbodytheSacred.net. Location: Acupuncture Works, 132 State Rte 37, New Fairfield.

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he ninth anniversary of Brookfield psychotherapist Judith Barr’s Power Abused, Power Healed is approaching. Each day, each year, abuses of power come more and more into view across the country, across our communities, and in our personal lives.

Through a series of stories by therapists and laypeople, the book helps explore the roots of relationships with a path to Judith Barr healing them. Barr began writing in response to misuses of power in the counseling world—things she witnessed herself and heard about through clients’ experiences. The book and accompanying home study course can help to heal the abuse of power in our world.

“Power is like fire, lightning, wind, ocean—like life itself—a raw, vibrant force of nature. It has the potential for great harm and the possibility for magnificent good. Each of us chooses, whether consciously or unconsciously, how we will use the power of our own life energy,” says Barr in Power Abused, Power Healed.

For more information, visit PowerAbusedPowerHealed.com or JudithBarr.com. See ad, page 27.

Change Your Mind & Change Your Life!

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

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

Call 203-595-0110 for a FREE Consultation

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

• Smoking • Trauma • Anger • Sports • Success

Diane Bahr-Groth, CHy, TFTdx

1177 High Ridge Road, Stamford, CT | www.MindBodyTransformation.com | 203-595-0110 8

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Mother Earth Gallery Plants New Roots in New Milford

Where Creativity Meets Meditation

March Creativity Retreat

Come delve deeper into the world of SoulCollage®

March 4-6, 2016

For more information and to register, visit:

www.pforzsoulcollage.com Zelie Pforzheimer

Certified SoulCollage® Facilitator

To learn more about SoulCollage® read my article in this issue.

www.pforzsoulcollage.com

A

fter 28 years in Brookfield, Mother Earth Gallery has moved to New Milford. Due to redevelopment plans at the Four Corners, the relocated gallery opened recently across from New Milford High School in front of House of Warmth.

“It was a hard move to make,” says Leslie Gera, owner of Mother Earth Gallery. “We had to leave Mining For Kids behind and it was heartbreaking.” With the new location, the gallery is now also showcasing local artisans with jewelry, photography, pottery, wood, soaps candles and body care products. In addition, the gallery has a large metaphysical selection of crystals.

In keeping with Mother Earth Gallery’s metaphysical and spiritual theme, it also carries Buddha, Kuan Yin and Ganesh statuary, tapestries and wall hangings in addition to books and tarot cards.

The gallery’s Made by Nature section reflects the beauty of items made from nature with crystals, wood, maple syrup and more. The Made by Hand area of the space encompasses everything from handmade gemstone and metal jewelry to candles, soaps, pottery, glass suncatchers, oils, jewelry, chimes, Tibetan singing bowls and even caramels and chocolate-covered nachos. Mother Earth Gallery also offers classes in tarot, crystals, shamanic healing, chakras and jewelry wirewrapping.

For more information, visit MotherEarthCrystals.com or call 203-775-6272.

Location: Mother Earth Gallery, 449 Danbury Rd, New Milford. See ad, page 27.

SoulCollage® created by Seena Frost and described in her book: SoulCollage: An Intuitive Process for Individuals and Groups.

Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Programs

Awaken • Transform • Restore Cultivate present moment awareness to reduce stress, pain and illness

Sheila Wall MSW, Certified Executive & Personal Coach/Mindfulness Instructor

Sessions offered quarterly in Fairfield and Danbury, with next program beginning: Fairfield: FREE Intro Session, Thursday, January 28, 2016 8 weekly sessions begin Thursday, February 4, 6:30-9pm Danbury: FREE Intro Session, Monday, January 25, 2016 8 weekly sessions begin Monday, February 1, 6:30-9pm $350, Early Bird paid at Intro, $395 thereafter.

To Register: Fairfield: https://fairfieldmbsr.eventbrite.com, Danbury: https://danburymbsr.eventbrite.com For more info: sheila@insynchronyllc.com, call 203-216-6243, visit www.insynchronyllc.com and carol.shear@gmail.com, call 203-452-9614, visit www.riseupcoaching.com

Carol Shear BNRN, Certified Integrative Health Coach/Mindfulness Instructor

Natural Awakenings 1/4 HORIZONTAL AD (2-COLUMN) 4.75 X 3.25

Expanding Possibility Through Vision Eyecare Associates, PC Dr. Randy Schulman, M.S., O.D., FCOVD Dr. Stephen Carr, O.D. Dr. Narvan Bakhtiari, O.D. Dr. Brian Rodrigues, O.D. Dr. Jason Rutherford, O.D. 2600 Post Road Southport, CT 06890 203-255-4005

é Comprehensive Eye Exams for All Ages é Solutions for Dry Eyes, Computer Use & Sports é Exceptional Treatment for Eye Diseases

é High Quality Eyeglasses & Specialty Contact Lenses é Iridology, Vision Therapy & Preventive Vision Care www.cteyecareassociates.com

6515 Main Street Trumbull, CT 06611 203-374-2020 eNaturalAwakenings.com

444 Westport Avenue Norwalk, CT 06851 203-840-1991 December 2015

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newsbriefs

Salt of the Earth Celebrates One Year

Kure Spa Expands Services; Marks First Year

S

ure Spa in Norwalk opened its doors a year ago and is looking forward to expanding its suite of offerings to its members. As it enters its second year, new services are now being offered, including cranial sacral therapy, thermal palm massage and Thai yoga bodywork. Products such as a line of organic essential oils and a safe beauty and skin care line have also been added. With high demand for its organic juice cleanses, Kure Spa plans on expanding its programs of three- and five-day detox cleanses after the holidays.

Over the past six months, Kure Spa has spent time testing other holistic therapies such as PEMF in the hopes of bringing them into the center in 2016, says Steve Geoffrion, Kure Spa’s co-owner.

Starting at $59, holiday gift cards are available this month for the center’s massage, cranial sacral therapy, Vibrosaun detox, chiropractic and cold laser therapy services, as well as for the organic juice bar.

alt of the Earth in Woodbury is pleased to announce its upcoming oneyear anniversary with some holiday gift ideas for all ages. Sue and Marty Martovich, the spa’s owners, officially opened spa on December 26, 2014. Gift giving ideas, discounts and packages will be available during the remainder of this year.

The public is invited to stop in and meet Salt of the Earth’s practitioners. Since its opening, the spa’s team has grown to five massage therapists, three Reiki practitioners, a licensed cosmetologist, a make-up artist, a certified yoga instructor, an NAET practitioner and a life coach. The spa offers a wide variety of treatments such as Himalayan salt therapy, BioMat therapy, deep tissue and Swedish massage, NAET, IPL/facial therapies and energy healing.

“As a society, we are starting to see a change in the way we take care of ourselves, not just our bodies but also within our internal balance and state of mind. People are looking for other choices that support their health and well-being. It’s part of the ‘Wellness Movement’. Salt of the Earth is proud to be an advocate for a proactive and holistic approach to healing and joins those who embark upon the journey to utilize natural therapies that have been practiced since ancient times,” say the Martovichs.

For more information, visit Kure-Spa.com or call 203-8571500. Location: Kure Spa, 430 Main Ave, 2nd Fl, Norwalk.

See ad, page 12.

For more information, visit NaturalSaltHealing.com or call 203-586-1172. Location: Salt of the Earth Spa, 787 Main St S, Woodbury. See ad, page 23.

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Connecticut’s Largest Organic Mattress Gallery Every mattress in our Carpe Diem and Terra Bed Collections is made entirely by hand using only natural filling materials.

Our mattresses are backed by a 25 year warranty and are designed to offer you a great value and return on your investment. Please stop in and try one for yourself. We think you will be very impressed.

Norwalk 508 Main Avenue 203.846.2233

Starting at $1,099

Comfort, Not Chemicals 10

Fairfield County Edition

Stamford 55 High Ridge Road 203.323.1509

A Klein Family Tradition Since 1947 www.organicsleep.com

natural awakenings

Balance Your Chakras Through Dance

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MindBodySpirit Open House

n shamanic cultures, it is believed that if there is imbalance in our lives (depression, stress, illness, even addictions) it is due to a disconnection with our spirit. Chakradance is a free form, spontaneous dance that aligns the chakras, our vital energy centers and connects us with our spirit. Bicoastal Reiki healer and Chakradance facilitator, Khristee Rich, has traveled Khristee Rich from Los Angeles, California, to lead these healing workshops in Fairfield County.

Starting in December, Rich will be teaching a variety of Chakradance workshops throughout Fairfield County. Introduction to Chakradance will be held on Sundays at 2pm at Just Dance in Norwalk. On December 16 at 7pm, Introduction to Chakradance: A Seated Dancing Meditation will be offered at Saltana Cave in Ridgefield. Redding Meditation Center will host Introduction to Chakradance: A Winter Solstice Celebration on December 22. Workshops at Basil Yoga Center in Ridgefield will begin in 2016.

Chakradance is a guided dance journey of the seven major chakras. Each class includes dance, chakra education, healing music, mandala art creation, candlelight and meditation. Described as “Reiki in motion”, it is suitable for adults of all ages and previous dance experience is not necessary.

In class, participants dance with the eyes closed while specific music is played to align the chakras. Similar to a healing Reiki session, participants see visions while they dance. They connect to the collective unconscious, see memories, flashes into the future, even bright colors. Emotions stir up and are released.

For more information, visit TheDancingCurtain.com, email Khristee@TheDancingCurtain.com or call 203-733-8250.

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indBodySpirit will hold an open house at its new Ridgefield location on December 5 from 11am to 5pm. This new psychotherapy and healing arts office. Started by Alex Boianghu, Kim Hai Doan and Urgyan, offers a variety of energy-centered modalities for integrative healing.

Some of these will be offered as complimentary services at the open house, including community acupuncture (11am and 2pm), a discussion and demonstration of somatic-based psychotherapy and EMDR (noon and 3pm) and pranic meditation (1 and 4pm).

MindBodySpirit takes a unified body-centered approach to health and well-being. The studio offers somatically grounded psychotherapy techniques including Hakomi, EMDR and Phoenix Rising yoga therapy, as well as acupuncture, massage therapy, spiritual counseling, and an energetic approach to meditation based on pranic breathwork.

For more information on the open house, contact Alex Boianghu (203-994-7295), Kim Hai Doan (203-648-3333) or Urgyan (203-770-2329). Location: MindBodySpirit, 9 Grove St, Ridgefield.

Prayer is more than meditation.

In meditation the source of strength is one’s self. When one prays, he goes to a source of strength greater than his own. ~Chiang Kai-shek

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203-531-5688 235 Glenville Road Greenwich, CT

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December 2015

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newsbriefs Essential Oils Workshop in Norwalk

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free introductory essential oil workshop will be held Wednesday, December 9 from 6 to 7:30pm in Norwalk at the office of Licensed Acupuncturist Jody Eisemann.

Marian Edvardsen, dōTERRA Wellness Advocate, will present the free class, which will include videos, live demonstrations and light refreshments and free samples.

Edvardsen has extensive expertise in the use of therapeutic essential oils and will demonstrate some of the benefits and various applications of these high quality oils to improve physical wellbeing and health.

Space is limited. Please email JEisemann2@gmail.com to reserve your seat. Location: 166 East Ave Ste 201, Norwalk.

Muktinath Open House Celebrates First Anniversary

M

onroe’s Muktinath Holistic Center will have an open house on December 6 from 2 to 6pm to celebrate its first year serving the holistic community.

Come and meet the center’s practitioners, healers and therapists and try out their modalities with mini massage, Reiki and drumming sessions. Warm up from your holiday shopping with hot chocolate and cookies and perhaps find a unique gift for your special someone from the center’s shop.

Holiday discounts will be offered and gift certificates will be available. The fun and healing will continue with a 6pm healing drum circle.

Muktinath Holistic Center offers three large treatments rooms; a large temple space for meditation, yoga and other healing arts; and a growing selection of natural health products and tools to bring beauty and healing into your own home.

For more information, visit MuktinathHolisticCenter.com or call 203-518-5808. Location: Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St, Bradford Green Plaza Building #1, (Rt 25 above chiropractic office), Monroe.

$59 A Sanctuary for Health and Wellness 430 Main Ave - 2nd Floor Norwalk, CT 06851

203-857-1500 www.Kure-Spa.com

1-Hour Intro Massage

*New C lients O nly

- Massage - Cranial Sacral Therapy - Vibrosaun Detox - Chiropractic Care - Cold Laser Therapy - Organic Juice Bar

Holiday Gift-Cards Starting at just $59 Come in, call in, or visit our website for easy online ordering - Print Out Your Own Gift Certificate.

12

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Ayurvedic Center Opens in Stamford

Kindred Spirits

Relax, Enjoy, Let Your Spirit Shine Through Interfaith Ministry Services Energy Sessions (Reiki, Rising Star) Certification Classes (Reiki, Rising Star) Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) Ear Coning • Meditation Classes Intuitive/Clarity Sessions Group Workshops • Buddhist Chanting

A Center for the Mind, Body, & Soul

203-938-3690 www.kindredspiritscenter.com 59 Ledgewood Road, Redding, CT 06896

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airali World of Ayurveda has opened its doors in Stamford to provide the community with Ayurvedic counseling for prevention and natural healing of chronic problems and lifestyle management for healthy living.

Other Ayurvedic services offered by the center include beauty therapies, facial massage, hair massage, warm herbal oil massage, pressure point marma therapy for stress reduction, rejuvenation, anxiety, pain and relaxation.

Reflexology is available for relaxation, stress management and insomnia. Shirodhara, a traditional Ayurvedic herbal oil drip on the forehead for mental rejuvenation, problems, stress management, insomnia and relaxation, is also offered.

Additional services include herbal steam therapies, hot stone therapy, lower back therapy, face care, head massage and more.

MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING There

is

Hope

Compassionate & Confidential Specializing in Substance Abuse Counseling William O’Heaney, LPC, LADC 860.629.0428 www.oheaney.com • New Milford, CT

When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time. ~Maya Angelou

For more information, visit KairaliWorldOfAyurvedaCenter.us, email Jmdaptardar@hotmail.com or call 203-857-4123. Location: 56 W. Broad St, Stamford.

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December 2015

13

kudos The Center for Natural Medicine

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

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Dr. Ellen Lewis Dr. Kulveen Virdee Dr. Andrew Cummins Dr. Amanda Placeres Cindy Wechsler, APRN Shannon Reynolds, LMT Tracy Pardo Beverly Lewis 8 Lincoln Street Westport, CT 06880

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Bigelow Tea Recognized for Commitment to Responsible Paper

E

nvironmental watchdog ForestEthics has announced that four major U.S. brands—Xerox, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Delta Dental and Fairfield’s Bigelow Tea—have expanded their commitment to support and promote responsible forestry by distancing their brands from the controversial Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) paper and wood certification and labeling.

The four companies join a list of 27 major U.S. brands that will avoid promoting SFI because, according to ForestEthics, the logging industry-run program misleads consumers and allows massive clearcuts, other destructive logging and human rights abuse.

“SFI is a serious liability to any brand that cares about its environmental reputation,” says Jim Ace, ForestEthics’ senior campaigner. “The logging and paper industry should realize that misleading consumers is a liability for them, too.”

The companies have each updated their policies on sustainability and sourcing. The following is Bigelow Tea’s new policy: “As part of Bigelow Tea’s strong commitment to environmental sustainability, Bigelow Tea will promote the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), and will educate our vendors about Bigelow Tea’s purchasing preference for FSC-certified paper and fiber.”

For more information, visit ForestEthics.org/Sustainable-Forestry-Initiative.

Positive & Nature Based Psychology Promoting well-being and resilience.

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Massage Therapy

The Gift of Relaxation Specializing in: Swedish • Pregnancy • Injury • Infant Trigger Point • CranioSacral Therapy

Robin Ordan, LMT 203-561-8535

www.robinordanlmt.com Located on the Old Greenwich/Stamford Border

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Local Practitioner’s Story Published

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orwalk interior designer Catherine Avery’s personal soul story, “It’s Your Duty”, is now featured in the recently released Unleash Your Inner Magnificence Kindle book. The book has been published by best-selling publisher Linda Joy of Inspired Living Publishing and includes Avery’s and 29 other stories of women who summoned the courage to transform their lives, relationships, businesses and/or health. The inspiring compilation of stories Catherine Avery can be purchased at UnleashYourInnerMagnificence.com.

“I passionately believe that when women share their stories, truth and wisdom with authenticity and vulnerability that they have the power to inspire and empower another woman on her journey of healing and self-discovery. The sacred stories in Unleash Your Inner Magnificence are from vibrant women who faced their fears, healed their hearts, and claimed their feminine power. My deepest desire is that their stories will inspire you to unleash your inner magnificence,” says Joy in the book’s introduction.

For more information, visit UnleashYourInnerMagnificence.com.

healthbriefs

Asbestos Found in Crayons and Children’s Toys

People Double Up on R Calories After the Holidays

D

espite the popularity of New Year’s resolutions, scientists have found that post-holiday food shopping decisions don’t necessarily reflect intentions to eat healthier or lose weight.

Scientists from Cornell University tracked resolutions and afterholiday food shopping habits of 207 families. They classified about 20,000 food products as either “healthy” or “less-healthy”.

Calories and dollars spent were also tracked.

Analysis of 37 weeks of activity that included the extended winter holiday period and into the new year found that additional food expenditures and calories began about a week prior to Thanksgiving and peaked during Christmas celebrations. Compared to the rest of the year, this increased shopping averaged just over $16 more a week, about $4 of which was spent on healthy foods.

Food expenditures then continued to increase after the holidays to about $25 more a week compared to the average—showing a 24 percent increase. However, $13 of this was spent on healthier foods.

Calorie levels also increased. “Total weekly per-serving calories increased by 440 during the holiday period relative to the baseline period, and nearly 91 percent of this increase was due to additional purchases of the more caloriedense foods,” the researchers reported.

“Even more intriguing is that contrary to well-intentioned New Year’s resolutions, additional weekly per-serving calories purchased increased to 890 in the post-holiday period relative to the baseline, more than doubling the 440 calorie increase evident in the holiday season,” the researchers observed. Of this, 63 percent of the additional calories were from high-calorie foods.

esearch from the Environmental Working Group’s Action Fund has determined that some popular children’s toys contain a chemical that previous research has linked to lung disease and lung cancers.

The researchers tested 28 boxes of crayons and 21 crime-themed toys at the Scientific Analytical Institute in Greensboro, North Carolina.

They found that four of the crayon brands and two of the crime-scene toys contained asbestos.

All of the asbestos-containing toys were manufactured in China. The products included the Disney Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and Nickelodeon Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle brands of crayons, the EduScience Deluxe Forensics Lab Kit and the Inside Intelligence Secret Spy Kit. The latter two brands contained asbestos within the fingerprint powders.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, asbestos from all sources is responsible for up to 15,000 U.S. deaths each year.

Potatoes Don’t Pack on Pounds

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esearch from scientists at the University of California, Davis has mashed the notion that potatoes cause weight gain.

The researchers tested 90 overweight people divided into three groups, with all of them eating five to seven servings of potatoes each week over a three-month period.

Two groups reduced their calorie intake by 500 calories per day, with one group eating low-glycemic index (GI) foods and the other group eating high-GI foods. The third group had no calorie restrictions. Despite the increased potato consumption during the study period, all three groups showed slight weight loss and reduced body mass index.

The researchers concluded, “Potato intake did not cause weight gain.”

eNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2015

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These include: how to choose the best process for the situation; understanding the tax impact of alimony versus child support; legal issues; dividing assets; future planning, and more.

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December 2015

17

globalbriefs

Sentient Beings

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

New Zealand Enacts Bill Recognizing Animal Intelligence

Fungus Among Us

Mushrooms Offer Pesticide-Free Insect Control Paul Stamets, one of the world’s leading mycologists, invented a fungus (mushroom)-based pesticide in 2006.

An industry executive states, “This patent represents the most disruptive technology we have ever witnessed.”

This “smart” pesticide provides a safe and nearly permanent solution for controlling more than 200,000 species of insects.

Entomopathogenic (insect-destroying) fungi are altered so they don’t produce spores. This actually attracts the insects, which then eat them and turn into fungi from the inside-out. The invention has the potential to revolutionize the way humans grow crops.

Source: Earth. We Are One. View the patent at Tinyurl.com/FungusPesticidePatent.

Post-It Progress

3M Requires Paper Sources to Meet Sustainable Standards A new sustainability policy by the 3M Corporation, maker of Post-it notes, has drawn support for its goal of making a minimal impact on forests, wildlife and human rights. 3M paper-based products and packaging require pulp and paper from sources around the world. Working in collaboration with ForestEthics and Greenpeace, the company launched a comprehensive review of all of its pulp and paper procurement expectations to ensure the materials are produced from sustainably logged timber.

3M will now hold paper and pulp suppliers accountable to one of the highest standards in the industry for environmental protection and respect of human rights, including tracing origins and obtaining consent of indigenous peoples and local communities before logging operations occur. The company intends to publish semiannual updates of its progress online.

Source: ForestEthics.org

The New Zealand Animal Welfare Amendment Bill that passed into law this year states that animals, like humans, are sentient beings. Dr. Virginia Williams, chair of the National Animal Ethics Advisory Committee, says this acknowledges, “Animals can experience both positive and negative emotions, including pain and distress.”

The bill thus bans the use of animals for testing cosmetics.

Williams says the legal recognition of animal sentience provides a stronger underpinning of the requirements of the existing Animal Welfare Act. The bill also provides for penalties to enable low-to-medium-level offenders to be punished more effectively and gives animal welfare inspectors the power to issue compliance notices, among other measures.

Find a link to the legislation at Tinyurl.

Our mission is to continually discover, demonstrate com/NewZealandSentienceBill. and educate that our source of Good is God within.

Discover the Power Within You Celebration Service Sundays at 10:30 am Rev. Shawn Moninger, Minister 3 Main St, 2nd Floor, Norwalk, CT 06851 (203) 855-7922 www.unitycenternorwalk.org

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Fairfield County Edition

Unity Center of Norwalk is a thriving community which demonstrates the practical value of Spiritual Principle by living with the confidence that limitless possibility in all things exists and is available for everyone.

Join us in the practice of expressing limitless possibility.

Christmas Open Mic Night December 19th at 7:00 pm Christmas Eve Candlelight Service 6:30pm For a listing of our events see the calendar in the back of this issue.

natural awakenings Christmas Eve Candlelight Service 6:30pm

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December 2015

19

Body Over Mind Trust the Source, Tame the Intellect

by Yudit Maros

T

here has been a good 30 years of confusion, or rather of misunderstanding the relationship between the mind and body. In the early 1980s, it did seem like a revelation that the mind has power over our bodies, specifically the power to heal. Affirmations, prayer, meditation do the job of recalibrating, re-writing the body’s pathways. That is all good and well, but only as far as healing is concerned. These “spiritual interventions” are just that, interventions applied under the threat of cancer, heart disease and other illnesses when the bells of doom are already ringing. How about their usefulness in everyday life? These methods only work so far. Over time, there may still be a disconnect between what we wish for and what we really believe or, more specifically, between what we preach and practice. This is because the body cannot be fooled and, as the pillar of our whole being, can only really be well to the extent it gets its needs met.

At the core of the misunderstanding is the implied definition of spirituality. In the common perception, spirituality is something of the mind, of the spirit, of intention; it is a belief that all that is interconnects, and that there is a higher intelligence that manifests in all that is. The question is how it manifests. In the most humble of forms, the answer is matter.

Spirit is matter. Albert Einstein said matter is compacted energy.

Spirit is energy. Everything is energy, in its myriad forms of manifestation dictated by vibrational frequencies. Matter, like our own bodies, is what carries that uncanny intelligence that knows past, present and future, and orchestrates the symphony of life. (Where matter comes from is a matter of persuasion, and it is not the topic of this article.) The tiniest particle in any living organism knows what to do, where to go, and how to act and react to keep the whole alive and well. That is intelligence.

So where does the disconnect come from—the one between our intentions and practices, our wishes and our beliefs?

It is a gap between our minds and bodies, one that happens the moment we “disagree” with the body’s signals. Culture perpetuates this disconnect. Throughout our upbringing, we are taught to disregard and even distrust our own physical feelings, the ones that manifest themselves in the form of sensations such as comfort or discomfort. Pressure, tension, ache, itching, pulsating, heat/cold, restriction/expansion, tingling, wetness/dryness is the language of the body. Sensations are the body’s way to speak of feelings and needs. These are the signals that inform of

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that higher intelligence of inter-relationships, survival and thriving. Body sensations express feelings such as hunger, loneliness and love; these are code for needs to eat, reach out, touch and more. Needs are, in turn, precursors for the necessary actions to be well. Without these actions based on our feelings and needs—and originally on our bodies’ sensations—we would never do what it takes to be well.

Unfortunately, we are relentlessly taught to ignore, dismiss, reject and scorn these signals. From day one, we are indoctrinated through shame, guilt and doubt to label them as useless, selfish, self-centered, narcissistic, lazy, stupid or even evil. It is cultural training that turns us against our Higher Selves—against the very spiritual essence that we are, and that our physical selves “embody”.

The body knows best. There is no need to worry about it turning us into animals or antisocial criminals. The argument is not question of either/or; listen to the body or listen to the mind.

Listen to both and put the body in charge. Let the body know, because it does, and it never lies. It is informed by the whole organism’s present-moment condition and inter-relationships, that is, by spirit. The mind simply does not have access to this level of intelligence. Our cognition is informed by other places, other times, other people and situations that, if all goes well, may only apply partially to the complexity of this present moment—or not at all. True guidance into the next healthy action, word, thought or attitude is in being present and surrendering to our physical feelings as they present themselves right now. Use the mind to make sure it is socially acceptable, but never to overrule, reject, ignore or otherwise discredit the body’s truths.

“And certainly we should take care not to make the intellect our god; it has, of course, powerful muscles, but no personality.

It cannot lead, it can only serve.” ~ Albert Einstein

We cannot pray for health while we also poison our bodies with Alcohol or nicotine. We cannot say “I love myself”, and ignore our need for rest, kindness or attention. It is critical we make sure to ground our intentions with our practices— our words, actions and thoughts, including prayer, affirmation and imagery with the true needs dictated by our bodies. In this way, we will be able to sustain the power of our intentions, because they coincide with our experience. This alignment is only possible if the body is the master, and the mind a humble servant. The body knows what we need; the mind knows how to make it happen. First things first: matter (i.e., the body’s wisdom) over mind (i.e., the mind’s powers of reasoning) creates inner connection, which in turn enables the mind to influence the body. This alignment spells inner guidance, health, balance and authenticity.

Yudit Maros, LMFT, CHt, is a psychotherapist in private practice in Ridgefield. She is the author of Apple of My I: The Four Practices of Self-Love, a four-step protocol to tap into the body’s truths and live an authentic life. Connect with her at Center4AuthenticLiving.com. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 76.

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December 2015

21

THE MIND-BODY CONNECTION

Our Mind Can be Healer or Slayer

by Angela Pascopella

A

migraine headache. A feeling of complete exhaustion even when well-rested. Obesity. According to experts and a growing body of scientific evidence, these physical conditions could all be related to emotions from disturbing childhood negative events or outright trauma that became stuck in our cells and are slowly releasing into our bloodstream.

The mind-body connection has been considered by modern scientists for decades, starting as early as the 1920s, with Harvard scientist Walter Cannon when he identified the

fight-or-flight response through which the body secretes hormones such as epinephrine. These hormones produce changes in the body—such as a quickened heart or increased breathing rate—that allow a person to run fast and escape danger, according to the Bravewell Collaborative website.

Today, the mind-body connection is more accepted in the Western world, and not just among the natural healing community comprised of yogis, Buddhists, naturopathic doctors, Chinese medicine practitioners and homeopaths. Just look at public school

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natural awakenings

districts, where in New York City students this year are being taught how to meditate to relieve stress and help them focus on learning.

“The stress in our lives is not just the stress of today,” says Paul Epstein, a naturopathic physician, mind-body therapist and mindfulness meditation teacher in Westport. He has specialized in mind-body medicine for more than 30 years and treats patients with ailments ranging from obesity to heart disease to chronic fatigue syndrome and cancer.

The physical ailments can also be expressions and patterns of stresses that likely started from trauma or negative experiences in childhood. “Disease tells a story, not just of your cells and a diagnosis, but of yourself and your life. Your biography can become your biology,” he adds.

Epstein uses the story of his father as an example of stress and the mind-body connection. A World War II veteran who stormed the beaches of Normandy, his father also had the job of clearing the battlefields of bodies and weapons. Epstein’s father suffered from PTSD—called shell shock in those days—and developed heart disease in his 50s. He died on the operating table having heart bypass surgery.

Doctors were not just bypassing the blocked artery, but the truth of the stress and trauma of his life, Epstein says. With that history, his desire is to help people heal from within. “Years ago, in my work, I became aware that even as I gave patients vitamins, herbs, Chinese medicine, etc., there was always something missing. Something wasn’t really shifting in them so they could be healthy,” Epstein says.

Body is Doorway to Healing At the recently opened MindBodySpirit Center in Ridgefield, three holistic practitioners provide an integrated mind-body approach to well-being.

Alex Boianghu, a Tibetan Buddhist yogi and counselor, Urgyan, a Western Buddhist lama and yogi in the same tradition, and Kim Hai Doan, an acupuncturist, massage therapist and meditator, treat patients who seek relief from conditions ranging from migraine headaches to Parkinson’s

disease. They offer various modalities to help others and use physical, emotional, energetic and spiritual elements.

“I use a therapeutic approach to counseling in which body patterns are seen to reveal underlying, habitual contraction and distress. The body is the doorway to healing,” Boianghu says. “We have to start with relieving stress in the physical body with such techniques as conscious breathing and progressive relaxation. This vitalizes the energetic body and nourishes consciousness, so the mental and emotional grasping is released in what is known as emotional regulation.”

Boianghu and Urgyan explain the full healing cycle includes both energetic activation and calmness in something like a “dynamic relaxation”, in which former conflicts can be reprocessed and integrated into a flexible way of life. Such integration introduces holistic experiences that have been ascribed to meditation, such as peace, clarity and a profound appreciation for life.

Hai Doan notes that all acupuncture is rooted in shen, or the interdependence of physical, emotional and mental well-being. Using her therapies she aims to regulate chi, or life force, and balance the yin and yang expression. “Life depends on the restoration and maintenance of homeostasis,” she says. “Stress responses create a cascade of biochemical and physiological processes that are positively affected by acupuncture’s therapeutic effects.”

Urgyan leads groups in pranic-based meditation, which employs breath techniques (pranayama) to steady the body and the senses, revitalize the body with full yogic breathing, and infuse the system with life force (prana).

Danielle Joffe Hampton, owner of SoulCentered Healing in Fairfield, is an intuitive counselor, energy worker and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioner. She explains that cancer, for example, may be a physical symptom of the imbalance between mind and body. She might treat the patient with emotional freedom technique, or EFT, which is an emotional version of acupuncture without the use of needles. A patient can be taught stimulate certain meridian points on the body by tapping on them with fingertips, aiding in the release of stagnant energy or emotion. “We are electrical beings and everything we think manifests in our emotional body,” Hampton explains. “So when we get caught up in a negative response, tapping teaches the body to revert back to default, which is harmony.”

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Women’s Day Dec 5- 1:00-4:30pm

Agni Love Yoga Wednesdays 6:15-7:30pm Saturdays 10:00-11:30am Kundalini Yoga Sundays 11:00am-12:15pm Essential Oils Class Last Tues. of every month 7:00-8:30pm (FREE) Guided Meditation Third Tues. of every month 7:15pm

REIKI level 2 Dec 6, 13, 22- 5:00-8:00pm Winter Solstice Chi Gong Dec 12- 1:00-4:00pm Wreath and Card Making Dec 13- 11:00am-4:00pm Potluck & Winter Solstice Ceremony Dec 21- 4:30pm

Swedish Massage by appt (954.629.0428) Reiki with Celine by appt (203.885.2076) Chi Gong (starting Dec 8) Tuesdays 7:00-8:30pm

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201 HUNTINGTOWN ROAD, NEWTOWN, CT 06470 eNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2015

23

Science Behind Mind-Body Medicine Using such techniques as meditation, acupuncture, yoga and any other Western-based medication or therapy may not really work until we integrate and address what’s already inside our bodies and our cells, minds and hearts, where much pain and disappointment and fear still live. The body bears the burden, Epstein says. For example, a weakened immune system can be attributed to various psychological factors that were born, conditioned and bred in childhood or any period in life, Epstein explains. Three sciences have evolved over time and now form the scientific foundation of and inquiry into mind-body medicine: 1. Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI), also referred to as psychoendoneuroimmunology (PENI), is the study of the interaction between psychological processes and the nervous and immune systems of the body. PNI takes an interdisciplinary approach, incorporating psychology, neuroscience, immunology, physiology, genetics, pharmacology, molecular biology, psychiatry, behavioral medicine, infectious diseases, endocrinology and rheumatology, according to the PsychoNumeroImmunotherapy Research Society. The main interests of PNI are the interactions between the nervous and immune systems and the relationships between mental processes and

health and disease. “You can condition the immune system,” Epstein says.

2. Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life. Neuroplasticity allows neurons, or nerve cells, in the brain to compensate for injury and disease and to adjust their activities in response to new situations or to changes in their environment. “It was once thought the brain was unchangeable,” Epstein explains.

“But it changes based on experience.

The patterns of thoughts about worrying, reactivity have been learned and reinforced in our brains. And now we know we can change the brain by changing the mind. It’s powerful understanding that mindfulness and awareness come into play.”

3. As an organism grows and develops, carefully orchestrated chemical reactions activate and deactivate parts of the genome at strategic times and in specific locations. Epigenetics is the study of these chemical reactions and the factors that influence them. The body’s cells “recall” the pain from a childhood that might have been riddled with neglect or hurt and anxiety; to know people can change their thinking that will, in turn, rewire the makeup of the DNA in their cells is revolutionary, Epstein says. “What’s exciting is that science shows that psychoneurons can change when you are meditating; you can change the

genetic expression at the cellular level.

What’s key in that is that it helps turn off pro-inflammatory genes. You can treat them with meditation.”

Mind-Body Treatments That Work Psychoneuroimmunology, neuroplasticity and epigenetics prove that it is important to integrate mind-body therapies in the healing process, Epstein says. “It’s important to integrate and engage in both efforts and treatments to cure and efforts to heal,” he says.

“We need both. The mind is a healer or the mind is a slayer. Mind-body medicine seeks to engage and use the mind as a healer.”

Using the new three ‘R’s—reflection, relationship and resilience—Epstein digs deep into an individual’s memories and background to understand how his patients came to be who they are today. He asks for their past medical diagnoses and for a brief history of their lives, including their family and home life, and their painful memories to finally let go of them.

“Face your pain,” he adds. “That’s your teacher. Listen to it. Embrace it. And you might find a scared little boy or girl underneath that feels helpless and needs love.

All healing is self-healing. We’ve conditioned ourselves to survive and to not let go. And how we have choices and resources we didn’t have before.

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The stresses we carry are living in the body and we can learn to change and heal and unburden and let them go.”

Boianghu, Urgyan and Hai Doan points to additional research on the positive outcomes of an integrated mindbody-spirit approach:

With emotional dysregulation, the amygdala—the primal region of the brain associated with emotional fear, fight and flight—actually shrinks during meditation. In turn, this allows the prefrontal cortex of the brain, associated with concentration and decision making, to become activated.

With cognitive-emotional steadiness, the brain can function more creatively.

Meditation reduces stress so relationships become less reactive and more proactive. With emotional resiliency, people become more attuned themselves and more understanding of others, so they can become more empathetic and communicative.

Angela Pascopella is a 26-year veteran of journalism who resides in Danbury. She is also an editor for a national, monthly trade publication.

General Resources Center for Investigating Healthy Minds • InvestigatingHealthyMinds.org Emotional dysregulation • ChildrensResourceGroup.com/CRGNewsletter/Coaching/Emotional-Dysregulation-Validation EMDR • EMDRIA.org Emotional Freedom Technique • EmoFree.com Epigenetics • Learn.Genetics.Utah.edu/Content/Epigenetic Freedom to Choose • FreedomtoChooseFoundation.org HeartMath • HeartMath.org Relaxation Response • RelaxationResponse.org Neuroplasticity • MedicineNet.com PsychoNumeroImmunotherapy Research Society • PNIRS.org/Society/Index.cfm

Local Resources Paul Epstein, ND Westport • 203-226-3923 Gary Gruber, ND New Canaan • 203-966-6360 Stamford • 203-539-1149 Danielle Joffe Hampton, MA, LAc Fairfield • 413-429-1278 MindBodySpirit Ridgefield Alex Boianghu • 203-994-7295 Kim Hai Doan • 203-648-3333 Urgyan • 203-770-2329

Using HeartMath to Improve Health

by Angela Pascopella

T

he use of HeartMath tools, which can be accessed on a smartphone app, is another therapy MindBodySpirit’s Kim Hai Doan uses. Gary Gruber, a naturopathic physician with offices in New Canaan and Stamford, uses it with his patients as well. HeartMath is based on the science of heart rate variability, which can become a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Patients learn how to accommodate external or internal stressors.

“If we can change the way the heart reacts to an experience then we can change the way we think about it, and the way we experience our life,” Gruber says. “If your life is too stressful, if there is too much negativity, anger or fear or guilt or grief or depression, that affects the immune system and leads to chronic conditions.”

A pulsometer computer program is used to track heart rate from moment to moment to see if the heart rate is smooth (coherent) or erratic (incoherent). Patients then think of an experience that is upsetting or sad to them; the heart rate variability will get worse by either speeding up or slowing down, depending on the thought. Then patients take a few deep breaths that can keep their heart rate on a coherent path. “That’s very empowering,” Gruber says.

SoulCentered Healing’s Danielle Joffe Hampton adds that scientific research links acupuncture to alleviating cancer symptoms, according to the National Cancer Institute. Acupuncture is effective for controlling pain, local swelling post-operatively, shortening the resolution of hematoma and tissue swelling, and minimizing using medications with their potential side effects.

Energetic acupuncture is an approach consisting of using needles with electricity and moxibustion, a form of local healing with herbs. It can impart a sense of well-being and accelerates patients’ recovery and is used in some cancer institutions, according to the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture.

Urgyan says the science is well established, but the art to apply it to each individual is important. “We don’t want to create dependency but skills to make their own instrument,” he says.

Hai Doan adds that all healing is about the individual’s dedication to wanting to heal. “We can take pills, we can get acupuncture, we can go to a therapist but the individual has a part in this as well.”

Angela Pascopella is a 26-year veteran of journalism who resides in Danbury. She is also an editor for a national, monthly trade publication.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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practitionerprofiles Bramasolé Fitness and Wellness Center

Soaring Hawk Sacred Synergy Healing

Elizabeth D. Aleksinas 57 Slab Meadow Rd, Morris 860-567-0219 Info@BramasoleWellness.com BramasoleWellness.com

Brenda L. Story Turning Point Healing Arts & Education Center 100B Danbury Rd (Rt 35), Ste 101, Ridgefield 203-948-0841 • SoaringHawk.BrendaS@gmail.com

Business/Practice summary and/or services offered: Mobile fitness and wellness, studio hours also available, healing treatments, Reiki and meditation training.

What drew you to this work as a profession?

To teach and inspire others to reach for their highest potential of body, mind and spirit!

Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: Personal fitness trainer, yoga instructor, Sun Style Tai Chi teacher, reflexologist, Reiki master teacher, mindfulness meditation teacher, movement therapy for special needs population.

Elizabeth D. Aleksinas

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

You can always expect to learn, to be empowered and to feel amazing!

Business/Practice summary and/or services offered: Gentle, effective, private energy healing sessions help clients to reach their individual health and wellness goals. Reiki, Karuna Reiki and Integrative Energy Therapy and spiritual inquiry classes are regularly available.

What drew you to this work as a profession?

A personal lifelong desire to Brenda L. Story discover healthier approaches to thriving in our stressful culture, plus the joy of helping others empower themselves to heal their body, mind and spirit.

Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: Practicing since 2002, I am a certified Reiki master teacher, Integrated Energy Therapy master instructor, Karuna Reiki master, crystal Reiki practitioner and Sacred Childbirth with Reiki practitioner.

How has your work/business evolved? What new are you offering heading into 2016?

It has been an amazing year. Taking my fitness and wellness business on the road helps me to get out and meet and help more people. In the coming year, I hope to expand my education and help people become healthier and balanced.

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

Sessions are designed specifically to honor the needs of each client. Gentle, non-invasive hand placements energetically induce a feeling of well-being that aids in bringing peace, clarity and physical comfort.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

My work is my life. I walk the talk each and every day. I am also very human and can fall just a bit but I get right back up. I love to inspire and teach; it is my purpose and my direct path!

How has your work/business evolved? What new are you offering heading into 2016?

I find that clients are exploring how to integrate spiritual awareness into their daily lives to aid stress management.

I will be offering new classes supporting mindful, spiritual transformation.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

My healing practice centers on the principles of integrity, acceptance, compassion and loving kindness. While offering supportive healing services, I honor each individual’s sacred innate ability to self-heal.

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natural awakenings

Angelic Healing Center Gigi Benanti Norwalk 203-852-1150 AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net AngelHealReiki.com, GigiBenanti.com Business/Practice summary and/or services offered: Reiki master/teacher (Western style), Karuna Reiki master/ teacher. Jikiden Reiki Shihan kaku (Eastern Style). Integrating the styles with Angelic energies as needed in private Reiki sessions. I teach all levels of Reiki workshops. My Reiki practice is fulltime.

What drew you to this work as a profession?

Starting at age five, I naturally gave healing to those in need. I just missed being hit by lightning in college and it felt like a new energy had been given to me. Reiki is a calling for me and became a way to deepen my gifts. I wanted to learn how to help others to help themselves.

Gigi Benanti

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

Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: I have been a small business owner since age 23, with a BA in art and education. I have many certifications, including Reiki, Young Living essential oils, bioenergy, angels, angel cards, sound healing. I am a Reiki therapist for a hospice agency.

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

Whatever your reason is to receive healing, I can address and help with my popular Reiki practice and my natural intuition.

How has your work/business evolved and/or what new are you offering heading into 2016?

I also teach classes about Reiki and angels at a local college and for adult education. I look forward to deepening my education with my continued commitment to learning the latest techniques.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

I look forward to helping you to bring the light, love, blessings, joy and peace into your life.

Experience is the teacher of all things. ~Julius Caesar

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

Robin Ordan, LCSW 203-561-8535

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December 2015

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practitionerprofiles Hunter Healing Hands Jessica Hunter 215 Harbor Ave, Bridgeport 203-916-8381 HunterHealingHands@hotmail.com HunterHealingHands.com Business/Practice summary and/or services offered: I offer integrative and intuitive healing sessions in shamanic healing, Reiki, melody crystal healing and acupressure. I also teach certification and accredited training programs in Reiki, crystal healing and shamanic healing.

What drew you to this work as a profession?

I was always drawn to Native Jessica Hunter Americans, and had my first Spirit experience when I was nine. I began to pursue healing work for myself and training over the last 25 years.

Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: Shamanic teacher, practitioner and shamanic medium.

Crystal healing teacher and Melody-certified crystal healing practitioner. Acupressurist, Reiki master, and OM with Circle of the Sacred Earth.

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

Healing, spirit guidance, tools for transformation. As my own path to healing also came through challenges and trauma, I can relate to my clients, using a compassionate approach without analysis.

How has your work/business evolved? What new are you offering heading into 2016?

Shamanic healing and shamanic mediumship are a strong focus, but all of my services are integrated as needed. For 2016, Shamanic drum and rattle-making sessions are being integrated as well.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

This work has been life changing for me, and it is priceless when it is life-changing for a client. Shamanism is not just my practice; it is my life, passion and dedication.

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natural awakenings

Hands and Paws Reiki for All Mary Oquendo 203-994-5308 Mary@HandsAndPawsReiki.com HandsandPawsReiki.com Facebook.com/HandsAndPawsReikiForAll/ Twitter.com/MaryOquendo2

Business/Practice summary and/or services offered: Reiki, crystal therapy, integrated energy, intuitive readings, small business and corporate meditations and wellness sessions, and educational workshops and webinars.

What drew you to this work as a profession?

When my min pin became chronically ill and was not responding to modern veterinary care. Through crystals and Reiki, we were able to not only regulate him, but improve his condition.

Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: Reiki master teacher, level 3 integrated energy practitioner, advanced crystal master.

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

Crystals and lots of them. I incorporate crystals into every wellness session and as a standalone modality as well.

How has your work/business evolved? What new are you offering heading into 2016?

A small business and corporate wellness program. Reducing employee stress increases their health and productivity. A win-win for both employee and business.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

That I consider pets to be part of the family and should be included in the entire family’s wellness plans.

Never forget the three powerful resources that are always available to you: love, prayer and forgiveness. ~H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

Mind Body Transformation Hypnosis Center Diane Bahr-Groth, CH, TFT-Adv 1177 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-595-0110 Diane@MindBodyTransformation.com MindBodyTransformation.com Facebook.com/MindBodyTransformationHypnosisCenter Business/Practice summary and/or services offered: Mind-Body offers fast, easy, natural, powerful and successful techniques for weight loss, smoking cessation, public speaking, fear, stress, anxiety, insomnia, pain, trauma, grief, anger and more.

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What drew you to this work as a profession?

I have always wanted to help Diane Bahr-Groth people in a meaningful way. My own mysterious illness caused me to search for a successful, holistic approach to health for myself and for others.

Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: Registered certified consulting hypnotist, Thought Field Therapy-Adv & Voice Technology, virtual gastric band hypnosis, neuro linguistic programming (NLP), time line therapy, complementary medical hypnosis, hypnobirthing, Touch for Health.

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Goodbye Inner Critic, Hello Healthy Body Image Mindful Awareness is Freeing

by Carol Shear

W

e have received an invitation. We have received an invitation for a special occasion, for a special occasion, such as a birthday celebration, a reunion, a wedding, or perhaps just an easy dinner with friends. Whichever event it may be, we need to decide what to wear. As we look into the closet and try on something, a sudden inner wave of critical commentary crashes through the mind: “Ah, I don’t have anything to wear,” “I look terrible in that outfit,” “If I lost 10 pounds maybe I’d look okay,” or “Look at my face - lines around my mouth and bags under my eyes.” Our inner critical being has come alive.

We live in a culture obsessed with how we look. Concerns about weight and body image preoccupy our thoughts. Body image refers to how we think, feel about and see our body, as well as the actions we take surrounding our appearance. This applies to both men and women; no one is immune.

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Fairfield County Edition

To varying degrees, we often judge our bodies as inadequate, feeling terrible about ourselves, maybe even depressed.

Then we partake in unhealthy eating habits, such as strict dieting, emotional eating or other unhealthy coping behaviors—such as alcohol, drugs, excessive busy work or excessive exercise—in order to feel better.

This can become a vicious cycle impacting not only how we feel about our bodies but also spilling over into how we live our lives. It’s a subtle but dangerous way of thinking that can lead us to feeling trapped in a state of imperfection, unhappiness and pain.

Why We Reject Our Bodies There are several theories as to why poor body image is so common in our culture, yet we don’t need to look too far to see a barrage of difficult to achieve media messages telling us how we should look and feel. The discrepancy between what we see in the

natural awakenings

mirror and the conditioned messages we receive gives the loud voices in our heads lots of opportunity to turn up the frequency and volume of harsh and critical commentary.

Women at midlife are particularly vulnerable, as the body is already in the throes of hormonal upheaval with shifting moods, weight gain, and changes in skin elasticity. Additional stressors may further antagonize how we feel about ourselves and our bodies including issues of life balance with either imposed or desired changes in employment, or financial woes. The impact of divorce or health crises—personally or that of an aging parent or loved one— and feelings generated by becoming an empty nester also can be stressors.

Find Freedom in Mindful Awareness Despite the negative story our inner critic likes to shout, there is good news and immediate help available. Mindfulness meditation can be a way out of these draining and debilitating thought patterns. The healing, transformative and restorative effects of the practice have been known in Eastern traditions for many centuries. Mindfulness means to pay attention on purpose, non-judgmentally, and in the present moment.

To be mindful is to focus attention on the breath and to bring awareness to our thoughts, feelings, emotions and physical sensations just as they are in this moment. When our attention drifts or gets caught up in conditioned mental habits and behaviors, we practice mindfulness by returning the ever-wandering mind to awareness of the breath and being the observer of our thoughts, feelings and sensations.

According to a recent study done at the University of Waterloo in 2014, when women were able to quiet the mind and engage in compassionate, non-judgmental present moment awareness of whatever thoughts arose, they had a healthier relationship with their bodies. As Allison Kelly, professor for the department of psychology at the University of Waterloo, describes, “Regardless of their weight, women with higher self-compassion have better body image and fewer concerns about weight, body

shape or eating.” As a result of learning and applying mindful practices, the women in the study were better able to handle personal disappointments and setbacks in their daily lives.

How Mindfulness Helps Foster a Healthy Body Image It helps to quiet the constant stream of mind chatter, allowing us to become the observer of our own thoughts, feelings, emotions and sensations—without judgment.

We learn to be present in our body from the inside, instead of it being just about our outward appearance.

We wake up to how we have been conditioned to think and feel and the resulting mental and behavioral habits that go along with that conditioning.

We learn to create new ways of responding (versus reacting) to these newly illuminated, self-defeating thought and feeling habits, and how to stop getting carried away down the river of negative thoughts or engaging in unhelpful coping strategies.

Since mindfulness is grounded in kindness and compassion, choosing to bring it into our lives is an act of love and self-care. Simply showing up and paying attention to whatever we are thinking, feeling or sensing in the present moment is enough.

A common way to begin is to sit quietly with our eyes closed to minimize distractions. As we are “waking up” to our life more fully, choose to sit nobly in honor of our decision to care for ourselves in this way. Sit up straight on a chair or cushion with hands resting comfortably in the lap.

Bring attention to the fact that we are breathing. Observe

the inhale and the exhale; noticing the breath as it enters and leaves the body has a very calming effect. In this way, we begin to settle the mind, and create a strong, steady foundation from which to observe feelings or thoughts.

It may be helpful to count the breaths, breathing in and out up to 10 and then back to one. It is not necessary to keep track of the numbers. If the mind wanders— which it will—simply without judgment return attention to the breath. Setting aside even 5-10 minutes per day as a formal practice and working our way up to 20-30 minutes can be a good place to start. Consider joining a Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction group program for in-depth learning, accountability and support. Regular commitment to mindfulness practice is a powerful way to be with and ultimately transform the suffering surrounding body image.

Mindfulness fosters a sense of inner peace and selfcompassion that allows us to accept our bodies and our turbulent emotions just as they are without judgment or needing to change anything. The more we practice and wake up to what is already here we begin to see the choices available to us. This is the key to body image transformation and the restorative path to feeling better, stronger, more alive and decidedly more peaceful.

Carol Shear, BNRN, is an integrative health coach and an instructor in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Program (MBSR). To connect and to register for the winter MBSR programs in Fairfield and Danbury, visit RiseUpCoaching.com or call 203-452-9614. See ad, page 9.

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PRANIC MEDITATION Conscious Breathing Tunes Our Whole Being

by Urgyan

H

uman existence can be quite frustrating. Talking about suffering isn’t exactly popular, but the point is to relieve it. The word “meditate” originally meant “to remedy”.

Meditation practice contains a vast wealth of healing remedies, across which certain themes are easily recognized, including breath awareness.

The breath is an important element of meditation practice in all yogic traditions, and often of central importance.

Let’s explore what we mean by meditation and pranic energy.

Our well-being is highly limited by two contracted mental patterns

that we often operate from—agitation, anxiety and distraction, on the one hand, and depletion, deficiency and depression, on the other. These easily translate into shallow breathing patterns, physical distress and illness, as well as energetic exhaustion and/or speediness. Since our whole being is affected, trying to just relax and focus the mind when our body, breath and energy are quite unstable can be ineffective and simply more frustrating.

Our mind-body-spirit is fundamentally an integrated instrument that deeply wants to harmonize its different dimensions, like the strings of a well-

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

tuned guitar. These include a physical embodiment, a radiant energetic body, consciousness, a psychic dimension capable of meditative awareness, and spiritual realization. These are expressions of a great chain of being, of which the physical body is only the most obvious level. We long for the joy and satisfaction of resonating across the chain, feeling more whole. There is a common thread that connects these dimensions— they are all energetic expressions of our life-force. An energy-based, embodied form of meditation helps us fine tune and better play our whole instrument.

Prana is a Sanskrit word meaning “life-force”, which is the principle of life and consciousness, and the breath of life. The living universe vibrates with pranic life-force in an unending energy matrix. Prana often operates on a low level or as a hidden resource, until it is cultivated with conscious breathing. Prana(a)yama is a yogic practice of conscious breathing that unblocks prana so the vital currents of energy can flow freely. Life-force revitalizes the physical body, lights up the subtle energetic body, and infuses consciousness with peace and clarity. This makes prana an eminently effective tool for meditation, which is simply how we come to know ourselves intimately.

The classic yogic approach to meditation first steadies the outermost layer of body and breath, and then enriches the system with pranic life-force.

Pranayama and meditation are integral practices of a yogic approach to life.

Yoga offers us both the means and the goal of the inner journey to the spirit.

A pranic-based meditation brings vitality to the common problems of depletion and agitation encountered in meditation, including lethargy, boredom, frustration, distraction and confusion about whether we are practicing correctly. Note that these are all devitalized states. We are often so devitalized from everyday stress that, when prana infuses us, we immediately brighten, radiate well-being and shine with happiness.

Prana provides the subtle inspiration to do so. Life longs for full expression. What we want is to be more fully present—to embody an unwavering steadiness across transformation and development. Meditative awareness combines an energized

presence and a relaxed openness—influences that invite and integrate us into their embrace. Prana is our aliveness.

Conscious breathing awakens Let your child experience the joy and wonder of nature in a safe and loving environment the subtle radiant body and opens Set on six beautiful acres in West Redding, CT, consciousness so that our energy and Westbrook offers Parent-Child and Mixed-Age awareness dance together. This makes Kindergarten Programs, pranic meditation effective for conscious Adult Workshops, Playdays and Seasonal Events transformation. In this vein, meditation becomes a dynamic relaxation imbued with intensified energetic presence, deep reflective awareness and spiritual203-664-1554 www.westbrooknatureschool.org ization of experience. A pranic-energy approach to meditation gathers up, harnesses and intensifies the passion needed for human evolution. Prana becomes the enthusiasm and subtle creative force required to awaken.

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practitionerprofiles Harmony of the Mind, Body, & Soul LLC Anasta Kydes, MA, NCC, LPC, ACSM, CPT Licensed Psychotherapist and Certified Personal Trainer 91 East Ave, Norwalk 203-318-4514 • AnastaKydes@yahoo.com Therapists.PsychologyToday.com/rms/72957 Facebook.com/HarmonyoftheMindBodyandSoulLLC Business/Practice summary and/or services offered: I have a private practice in mental health counseling which incorporates meditation and exercise along with other coping strategies to help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression and stress.

What drew you to this work as a profession?

I’ve always had strong instincts Anasta Kydes along with a passion for helping and listening to those in need. Counseling comes naturally to me and is something I truly enjoy.

Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: I’m a licensed professional counselor (LPC), a national certified counselor (NCC), and a certified personal trainer (ACSM CPT). I specialize in treating adults with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, low self esteem and relationship conflict.

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

A client can expect to share their story in a supportive and non-judgmental environment and will learn coping skills to manage life’s challenges.

How has your work/business evolved? What new are you offering heading into 2016?

Initially, my work started out purely mental health in nature.

Now, both a healthy mind and body are emphasized in order to achieve optimal health and a healthy spirit.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

I’m not your traditional psychotherapist that follows one particular modality. Treatment is not “cookie cutter” and is instead very much individualized toward the specific needs of each client.

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natural awakenings

Ann C. Reeves, PsyD

Licensed Psychologist 31 Hawleyville Rd, Newtown 3 Hollyhock Ln, Wilton 203-451-6208 • AnnReevesPsych@optonline.net AnnReevesPsychology.com

Ann C. Reeves

Business/Practice summary and/or services offered: I am an experienced licensed psychologist who works with those undergoing anxiety, depression, significant life transitions, parenting questions or other life challenges. I specialize in positive psychology, mindfulness stress management and nature-based psychotherapy, also utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy.

What drew you to this work as a profession?

I observed and was curious about human behavior in all forms, with a knack for intuitively sensing how someone might be feeling. It was only natural to study psychology.

Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: My clinical and school psychology doctorate is from New York University. I was trained at the UMass Medical Center for Mindfulness in Mindful-based Stress Reduction and hold Certifications in OASIS in the Overwhelm, EMDR, the Myers-Briggs Type Inventory. In February 2016, I will gain certification in positive psychology. I am also trained in Celtic shamanism and Reiki.

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

Together, we will identify your strengths with an equal focus on “what’s right” as I listen to “what’s wrong”. I will introduce you to strategies that will help you thrive in the midst of life’s inevitable challenges.

How has your work/business evolved? What new are you offering heading into 2016?

I integrate alternative modalities into traditional psychotherapy, using positive psychology interventions, meditation, visualization, guided imagery, sandplay therapy, stress management techniques, nature-based experiences and the arts—such as music, poetry and photography. In my Newtown office at SOUND Center, I offer nature-based psychotherapy. I will teach mindfulness-based stress reduction in February and March and, in the summer, will lead an all-day retreat.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

I value intuition, spirituality, creativity, humor, nature, and the body’s wisdom when people are searching for their own “one wild and precious life.” (Mary Oliver.)

In Synchrony, LLC

Rise Up Coaching, LLC

Sheila Wall 5 West Rocks Rd, Norwalk 203-216-6243 @InSynchronyLLC.com • InSynchronyLLC.com Facebook.com/Sheila.M.Wall Twitter.com/SheilaWall LinkedIn.com/in/SheilaMWall

Carol A. Shear, BNRN, ACC Trumbull • 203-452-9614 Carol.Shear@gmail.com • RiseUpCoaching.com Facebook.com/RiseUpCoachingLLC Linkedin.com/CarolShear

Sheila Wall

Business/Practice summary and/or services offered: Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) programs in Danbury and Fairfield, Corporate Based Mindfulness Training (CBMT) with The Potential Project in the tri-state area, executive and mindfulness coach/consultant. My passion is helping individuals to meet the challenges of their life stressors, gain greater work/life integration, and break down barriers to change.

What drew you to this work as a profession?

I have found my passion and purpose, combining experience in business, nonprofits, mental health and coaching that allows me to empathize with and guide people to reduce the daily stressors and obstacles they face in many different stages of their lives.

Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: I have a masters of social work and am a professional certified coach through International Coach Federation (ICF).

I have completed the MBSR Practicum, the mind-body medicine with Jon Kabat-Zinn, and the teacher development intensive training at the Center for Mindfulness, UMass Medical School.

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

MBSR offers people the ability to obtain greater clarity, resiliency and focus in their personal and professional lives while CBMT is tailored to challenges that people face in the workplace.

Business/practice summary and/or services offered: As a registered nurse, integrative health coach and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Program instructor, I am a passionate promoter of whole-body health and wellness who creates dynamic partnerships with clients that moves them towards living satisfying and healthy lifestyles.

What drew you to this work as a profession?

There is so much people can do for themselves in partnership with their doctor; that which only you can do for yourself, drawing upon your inner resources and natural capacity for greater health, balance and peace of mind. It is my honor to do this work with people who are willing to rise up and take charge of their lives and health.

Carol A. Shear

Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: I am a baccalaureate registered nurse, certified integrative health coach from Duke University, integrative medicine and MBSR practicum and mind-body medicine training through UMass Medical School’s Center for Mindfulness.

What should a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

The eight-week MBSR meditation program is a method that cultivates awareness to reduce stress, pain and illness. Participants learn to observe default reactions to life’s stressors and discover available choices on how to respond, instead of react, to daily challenges and then apply these to everyday situations.

How has your work/business evolved? What new are you offering heading into 2016?

I began teaching MBSR in 2012. In 2014, I partnered with Carol Shear, BRN, offering quarterly programs in Fairfield and Danbury. I became a senior consultant with Potential Project International in 2014.

How has your work/business evolved? What new are you offering heading into 2016?

In 2014, I partnered with my colleague Sheila Wall, MSW, a mindfulness coach/trainer, to deliver the MBSR Program in Fairfield and Danbury. Winter programs begin the week of January 25, 2016. Registration for the free introductory session is at FairfieldMBSR.EventBrite.com or DanburyMBSR.EventBrite.com.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

I have spent close to four decades practicing yoga and meditation and applying it to my own life and workplace challenges.

Authenticity and presence are the heart and soul of my work.

I am honored to teach people how to achieve a harmonious balance between their inner life and outer circumstances.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

Pain and stress are unavoidable; suffering is optional. My individually tailored and compassionate approach creates the safe place from which awareness, transformation and restoration can unfold. eNaturalAwakenings.com

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practitionerprofiles Maria C. Castillo 238 Monroe Tpke, Ste B, Monroe 203-445-8966 Maria@LifeBetweenLivesTherapy.com LifeBetweenLivesTherapy.com

Victoria Shaw, Ph.D., LPC Offices in Westport and Wilton 203-254-3403 • VFShawPhD@gmail.com VictoriaShawPsychotherapy.com and VictoriaShawIntuitive.com Facebook.com/VictoriaShawIntuitiveCounseling Business/Practice summary and/or services offered: I support clients in dealing with life’s struggles and improving the quality of their lives.

My work combines the best of traditional psychotherapy with intuitive guidance. I offer intuitive psychotherapy for children, teens and adults, and intuitive consultations for adults.

Business/Practice summary and/or services offered: Maria C. Castillo is a bilingual, licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in private practice with over 25 years of experience.

Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: She received her MSW from Hunter College in New York City. Maria has worked with a variety of clients and issues as a psychotherapist, taught social Maria C. Castillo work as an adjunct professor at a local university, and has appeared on television and radio shows. She weaves Reiki, hypnosis and relaxation/meditation techniques into her eclectic and holistic approach.

Additionally, Maria holds certifications in hypnosis from The National Guild of Hypnotists and trained in past life regression with Brian Weiss, M.D. Maria is honored to have been a contributing author in Dr. Weiss’ latest book Miracles Happen: Transformational Healing Power of Past Life Memories. Two of her past life sessions with clients were featured in the book.

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

As a certified Life Between Lives Therapist trained by The Newton Institute and Michael Newton, Ph.D., she is available for private sessions as well as speaking engagements on the subject. Maria offers workshops to familiarize individuals with regression to past lives and the afterlife.

How has your work/business evolved? What new are you offering heading into 2016?

She has added to her varied services sound and Reiki healing in a group setting known as Healing Vibrations: A Journey Inward.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

Maria’s motto: “We are all here to learn, to love, and to be happy. Let your inner wisdom guide you.”

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natural awakenings

What drew you to this work as a profession?

I have a strong desire to be of service and to support people in living more joyful and fulfilling lives. The more I do this work, the more it is apparent that this truly is what I was meant to do.

Victoria Shaw

Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: I have a doctorate in cognitive psychology from Princeton University and completed post-doctoral training at Columbia University Teachers College in child development and educational psychology. I am a licensed professional counselor and a certified distance counselor with advanced training in EMDR, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Energy Psychology.

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

Sessions can help clients to understand themselves better, identify personal strengths, process past hurts and release resentments, reduce anxiety, and learn to deal with life’s struggles in a more direct, empowering and conscious way.

How has your work/business evolved and/or what new are you offering heading into 2016?

I am offering more workshops, including healing visualizations, body image support, mindful parenting and intuition development workshops.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

That I love what I do, and continue to be inspired by my clients’ spirit, courage, healing and growth.

A Gift That Fits All

by Linda Ross

H

ave you ever received a gift you didn’t initially want or one that made you question what you would do with it? Often once we unwrap those strange gifts, we can pry our thoughts open to new possibilities. Whether it is our first bike, microwave, computer, laptop, blackberry, iPhone or iPad, often receiving a new item requires a learning curve.

Should we open it, and open ourselves to new possibilities?

Dr. James Gordon and Deepak Chopra think so. In an online video they note that, “We’re the ones who know for the most part what’s best for us.” They add that having the opportunity to take care of ourselves is a “revolutionary idea” that can seem very threatening to our chronic sense of dependency on authorities. They conclude that if we have the opportunity to take care of ourselves we worry that we are wrong, that it won’t work and that maybe they’re right.

One aspect of this new direction of taking care of ourselves is to build confidence in our own health decisions. Choosing Wisely, an initiative of the American Board of Internal Medicine Foundation, helps providers and patients engage in conversations to reduce overuse of tests and procedures, and support

patients in their efforts to make smart and effective care choices.

The Choosing Wisely site reports that a 2014 survey funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation found that nearly 75 percent of physicians say the frequency of unnecessary medical tests and procedures is a serious problem. The foundation campaigns for leading medical specialty societies and other non-physician organizations to identify commonly used tests or procedures whose necessity “should be questioned and discussed.” Their resulting lists of Things Providers and Patients Should Question are “intended to spark discussion about the need—or lack thereof— for many frequently ordered tests or treatments.”

Prayer can be a gift for those wanting to question and yearning to listen to what some may call intuition or grace from above. Contrary to what some believe, prayer is not an absence of treatment, but a different way of actively challenging ill health. Physical transformation by focusing on and living the word of a higher being than yourself was first written about several thousand years ago. For instance, the book of Proverbs tells us, “My son, attend to my words; ...keep them in the center of your heart. For they are life to those who find them, healing and health to all their flesh.”

The gift of having confidence in our own healthcare decisions may seem remarkable at first. But perhaps we too might eventually find it to be truly indispensable. Prayer assists us and guides us in the journey.

Linda Ross is a self-syndicated columnist writing on the relationship between thought, spirituality and health as well as trends in that field. She is also the media and legislative liaison for Christian Science in Connecticut, advocating for spiritual care and treatment. Connect with her at linkd.in/1p5UyZw or 203-866-1200.

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By its intimate connection with divine love, Spirit infuses human experience with qualities of amazing grace—unexpected clarity, vision, wisdom, peace, compassion, emotional release, inspirational epiphanies, deep understanding and comprehensive healing of mind, body and soul.

W

hile society abounds with scientific research, products and practices that promise to enhance our mind or body and the mind-body connection, without Spirit in the mix, neither rises to its full potential. A heart open to a higher power exponentially multiplies the effects of this crucial connection.

“Just as a candle spreads light in a darkened room, people who are living in-Spirit give off a higher energy that can bring light to our hearts and minds. In other words, we can be inspired just by being in their presence,” according to renowned bestselling author Wayne Dyer, Ph.D.

Experiential, non-verbal and lifechanging encounters with the unbounded power and presence of Spirit in prayer and meditation are difficult to analyze in the same way as mind-body

natural awakenings

science. However, Dyer points to the works and outcomes of Spirit as visible evidence of how it lifts us up.

We see individuals with rapturous hearts sending out signals that they love the world and everyone in it. Those that live in Spirit tend to see the world as a friendly place, are at peace with themselves, appear to be open and accepting rather than judgmental and harsh, and often report being healed of all sorts of diseases, relationship challenges, career fluctuations and questions of purpose and direction. They attest to how Spirit shines a triumphant light in the midst of dark nights of the soul, redefining the essence of life itself and declaring us worthy in our innermost reaches.

Personal Healing

When a 19-year-old woman entered basic military training at Lackland Air

Force Base, in San Antonio, Texas, and was undergoing initial medical and psychological screening, she was identified as having body and mind issues that would require her to be separated from the service. These problems included organ failures and spinal misalignment, as well as severe consequences of an emotionally abusive upbringing. It was determined that she could not handle the physical and mental demands of military life.

Because the policy was to not treat such problems if identified upon entering the service, authorities allowed her to remain in training until her separation from the Air Force could be processed.

The woman was impressed and also distressed by the finality of the verdict and assessment tools used by mind and body experts among the medical staff. In talking with a chaplain on the base, she came to understand that she could choose to appeal her case to another jurisdiction, a “higher” court of Spirit.

Focusing on the voice of divine love, she grew to see Spirit as more than a higher power. She saw Spirit as a higher authority. She surrendered to divine love’s authority as ultimate law, supremely qualified to reorder her whole being. She trusted that aligning with spiritual power could change her view of her identity and the seemingly inescapable conse-

quences of genetics, environment and human history denying her desire to serve her country in this way.

Listening to a higher witness testifying on her behalf and identifying her authentic being as the magnificent expression of the magnificent Creator, she felt encouraged to the point that her mind and body stopped arresting her progress and became more effective servants, responding with greater freedom and joy. One limitation after another fell away, and the military and medical authorities seemed pleased with her progress as she neared completion of training. Finally, performing a mile-and-a-half run within a required time remained the only obstacle to graduation, and she was still 45 seconds too slow.

This helpful passage from the Hebrew prophet Isaiah became central to her prayer and meditation as she approached her last running attempt: Young people will get tired;

strapping young men will stumble

and fall.

But those who trust in the Eternal One will regain their strength.

They will soar on wings as eagles.

They will run—never winded, never weary.

They will walk—never tired,

never faint. ~Isaiah 40: 30-31 (The Voice)

To feel Spirit’s presence, we must surrender our own sense of how it will work, its timeline and the impact on our ego or status quo.

As with anything worthwhile, conscientious practice is essential.

She passed her final attempt with 18 seconds to spare, running on eagles’ wings.

So, how can we all discern such a divine witness to our original authentic being amidst loud testimony of all the voices and labels shouting in our head and body, including those imposed by others?

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Prayer and Meditation

There are two approaches to listening to the voice within, whether we name it God, higher power, Spirit, grace, Eternal One, or divine love or Love.

Complementary, rather than mutually exclusive, both approaches require a capacity, gained through patient practice, of quieting the inner and outer chatter and learning to hear that which calls us to be more than what human experience suggests is possible. It’s who we are in the eyes of grace.

Sanford C. Wilder, of Grafton, Illinois, author of Listening to Grace, offers personal growth and development programs through EducareUnlearning. com that encourage prayer and meditation that emphasize listening. He practices both approaches and makes distinctions between them.

“When I pray, I am directing my thoughts toward God, listening and often affirming what I know to be divinely true. I am yearning to surrender my will and affections in conscious connection with the divine such that I or another receives a blessing,” shares Wilder. In such prayerful listening, he hopes to gain something, often a new insight and corresponding manifestation.

“When I meditate, my intention is to sacrifice every thought, concept, image and feeling to God, the only consciousness. I trust that listening and

Through conscious listening we discover that our true nature—as witnessed by Spirit—though sometimes obscured from view, is never altered from its original beauty and wholeness. ~Helen Mathis observing with nonattachment helps me release conscious and unconscious conditioned thought patterns permeated by a human sense of self.” Through meditative listening, he hopes to release everything rather than receive anything, accepting that everyone is equipped and able to be open to, witness and experience nonstop blessings.

Helen Mathis has been an educator in the Philippines and Swaziland as well as the U.S., including an instructor of religion at Principia College, near St. Louis; she is now part of a Centering Prayer Circle in Stockton, California. She explains that centering prayer may be seen as a hybrid that embraces both prayer and meditation, nourishing what’s beneath the preoccupied self to awaken a deeper and vastly more authentic self.

Mathis appreciates what Cynthia Bourgeault explores in her book Centering Prayer and Inner Awakening, that, “This confusion between small self and the larger Self… [the] ‘True Self,’ ‘Essential Self’ or ‘Real I’—is the core illusion of the human condition, and penetrating this illusion is what awakening is all about.”

Like Bourgeault, Mathis believes that it’s not about the absence of thoughts so much as detaching from our thoughts, trusting that we can let go and be safe, consent to surrender human will and forgo personal agendas. Only then can spiritual sense come into play.

“The goal is to awaken to, open to and get in touch with our innermost being and Spirit,” Mathis affirms.

“Clearly, centering prayer assumes we each have a spiritual awareness of the divine within us that acts, as Bourgeault puts it, as ‘a kind of interior compass whose magnetic north is always fixed on God.’”

Core Shift

We often approach a Spirit dimension with the attitude of “what it can do for me.” The higher practice that mystics and other deep thinkers of various faith traditions ultimately arrive at instead centers on transforming our whole self to align with Spirit’s purpose for us, which changes everything.

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Dwelling in Spirit

Grace and Spirit work in us, through us and between us, yet we can’t simply summon them up or outline their outcomes. To feel Spirit’s presence, we must surrender our own sense of how it will work, its timeline and the impact on our ego or status quo. As with anything worthwhile, conscientious practice is essential.

Life, defined by Spirit, gives fresh strength and impetus to mind and body. All three are vital elements of the dance of life.

Richard Davenport is a spiritual life educator (HigherGroundForLife.com) and the founding executive director of an inclusive nationwide Bible and spiritual life community (BibleAndSpiritualLife. org). Now based in St. Louis, MO, he is a retired Air Force chaplain, having served at Lackland and other U.S. Air Force bases on three continents.

Victoria F. Shaw, PhD, LPC

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

Intuitive Psychotherapist & Consultant Combining the best of traditional

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

Offices in Wilton, Westport and Fairfield.

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

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

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Reverend Dr. Michael Beckwith, founder of the New Thought Agape Spiritual Center, in Los Angeles, and a spiritual mentor to Oprah Winfrey, believes, “The relationship we have with the infinite is more about how we are to serve it than it is to serve us.”

Beckwith describes three primary stages of realizing the power and purpose of divine Spirit expressed as our spirit. The first is that of a victim (feeling powerless, unable to effect change). The second is when an individual learns the existence of universal law that responds to our thinking, emotions and attitude; we learn how to use it to stabilize life structures and demonstrate health and wellbeing.

“Ultimately, in stage three, we become a vehicle of life in service to life. Instead of using the law, the law uses us. Life fulfills its own nature through us,” he says. “All of life is conspiring for our freedom, liberation, wholeness and health.”

He urges us not to stop and stagnate at stage two, using divine laws only to manifest personal conveniences, stuff and even people for our use; this can hijack views of abundance into materialism and consumerism. He quips, “We are not here to go shopping.”

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practitionerprofiles Lantern House: Center for Seraphic Living 154 Danbury Rd, Wilton • 203-529-1219 Kim@LanternHouseLiving.com, SeraphimHouseLLC@gmail.com LanternHouseLiving.com Facebook.com/LanternHouseCT Twitter.com/LanternHouse154 Business/Practice summary and/or services offered: Lantern House offers guidance for the journey to one’s true nature through psychic readings, energy healing, classes and meditation.

We offer a unique collection of spiritual gifts, supplies and artifacts from many spiritual traditions.

What drew you to this work as a profession?

Owner Kim Feeney has always been drawn to a life of spiritual wakefulness and felt called to create a grounded, comfortable venue for others to begin or continue their own journeys.

Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: Kim has a masters in systematic theology from Union Theological Seminary at Columbia University, as well as several other certifications in energy healing and mindfulness work.

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

A client can expect to feel empowered, creatively inspired and connected to the Divine within themselves and others. They will receive the tools and resources they’ve been seeking.

How has your work/business evolved? What new are you offering heading into 2016?

Lantern House is continually evolving. Its meditation programs have and will continue to expand throughout Fairfield County. We’re working on a few new spiritual coaching programs and providing a varied class schedule in 2016.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

Spirituality and spiritual work encompasses the entire human experience, including the physical and intellectual.

Lantern House provides wide-ranging opportunities for growth and healing the whole being.

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Muktinath Holistic Center 755 Main St (Rt 25), Bldg#1, Monroe 203-518-5808 • MuktinathHC@gmail.com MuktinathHolisticCenter.com Facebook.com/MuktinathHolisticCenter Muktinath Holistic Center Community at Facebook.com/Groups/1387353431563390 Business/Practice summary and/or services offered: We offer programs, workshops, sacred ceremonies and retreats designed to facilitate whole body healing and empower people to transform themselves and the world. Muktinath offers holistic services such as massage therapy, Reiki, reflexology, energy healing, meditation, hypnosis, EFT, shamanic healing and crystal dreaming.

What drew you to this work as a profession?

The vision of the holistic center came after a spiritual journey that director Sierra North took in the Himalayas of Nepal to a sacred temple on the mountain Muktinath. The word Muktinath is interpreted as liberation and freedom from our karma. The healing of this sacred place is the gift that Sierra brought back to Muktinath Holistic Center.

Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: The center’s respected practitioners, healers and therapists offer the perfect blend of credentials and practical experience.

Several practitioners are one of fewer than 20 professionals certified in their field in the United States. Muktinath hosts internationally recognized healers and teachers as well.

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

Our goal is to bring the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual bodies into alignment to facilitate healing. This can be realized as relief from physical discomfort and pain, freedom from limitations and fears, greater self-confidence, healthier relationships, and overall increase in life satisfaction.

How has your work/business evolved? What new are you offering heading into 2016?

Muktinath offers a diverse range of continuing education opportunities, classes and workshops for both beginners and the most advanced professionals.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

Muktinath Holistic Center is a peaceful and welcoming healing space where you will find experienced holistic health practitioners working together to address your health concerns, and bring you to the next step of your spiritual journey.

Unity Center of Norwalk 3 Main St (above the Ford Dealership), Norwalk 203-855-7922 • Office@UnityCenterNorwalk.org UnityCenterNorwalk.org Unity Center Norwalk Twitter.com/UnityNorwalkCT Business/Practice summary and/or services offered: Unity Center is a New Thought Spiritual Center offering opportunities for realization that each individual is inherently good and can be aware of that during both the best and worst of experiences.

What drew you to this work as a profession?

Unity Center of Norwalk’s mission is to continually discover, Shawn Moninger demonstrate and educate that our source of good is God within. This is the most important aspect of who and what Unity is and offers.

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Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: Member Center of Unity World Wide Ministries. Rev. Shawn Moninger is an ordained Unity Minister as well as an ordained interfaith minister.

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

Those who participate in our Celebration Service, (Sundays at 10:30am) and our fellowship and community classes and events find themselves expressing their creative and spiritual selves in ways they may have thought weren’t possible.

How has your work/business evolved? What new are you offering heading into 2016?

Open Mic night is the third Saturday of each month where anyone can get up and sing, recite poetry or, stand-up.

Unity Center has expanded its creativity classes to include four-week courses in stand-up comedy, as well as cabaret performance classes (6-week course) and Reiki, prosperity, health and wellness classes and fairs.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

We are all inherently good although many of us may have forgotten that from time to time.

Maybe Christmas, the Grinch thought, doesn’t come from a store. ~Dr. Seuss

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December 2015

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Mandala Artwork by Meg Reilly, all rights reserved

apy. According to The Mandala Workbook

by Suzanne Fincher, drawing “mandalas offer[s] us a profound way to examine our inner reality, to integrate that understanding with our physical selves, and to feel connected to the greater universe.”

There are as many ways of creating a mandala as there are moments of time.

One way is to begin by meditating on an issue you are trying to work out or something you want to attract into your life (manifestation). During meditation, you are tapping into this inner reality, this unconscious side of yourself. After spending time in guided meditation, you are ready to manifest change by drawing your mandala.

Placing a pencil in the center of the circle, and being mindful of your meditative state, you plant the seed of your mandala. Take your time. There is no reason to rush. If a color or shape or direction or pattern seems right, that’s what you should draw. If nothing comes to you, just wait mindfully with your pencil poised. As you work, you can turn your paper around and around.

by Meg Reilly Slowly, methodically, the creation will blossom. As you continue to draw, the

Qualities of the relaxation response hat can happen when you mandala will come into full bloom and include decreased heart rate and blood combine creating and coloreventually rest at completion. Drawing is ing mandalas with meditation? pressure, slower breathing and pulse, remeditation too. Even as your eyes are wide laxed muscle tension, and a reduction in Manifestation.

What is a mandala? The word comes cortisol and noradrenaline. The latter two open, your focus and attention should flow from Sanskrit for magic circle; simply put, are hormones associated with stress. Flow, effortlessly as your mandala manifests.

This combined meditation/mandala it is a circular design. It represents you in on the other hand, might involve higher drawing is like the old Chinese game the center as the creator and, at the same heart and breathing rates when, for extime, the entire cosmos as the circle. It is the ample, an experienced skier is flying per- Go—simple to learn, a lifetime to master.

The benefits are many from simply lowerfectly down a mountain slope. But flow container and the contained, all at once. ing blood pressure or finding a few quiet

Mandalas have been around since is also that moment when someone is so moments to relax to full-blown enlightenthe first human dragged a finger in the fully and flawlessly involved in whatever earth to draw a circle. They can be found they are doing that they lose track of time ment. You can do this all by yourself or in in all cultures throughout time and run and feel as if everything in this moment is a group where you also gain the energetic influence of other meditators and the opfrom the esoteric detailed religious works simply effortless.

Sparked by Johanna Basford’s 2013 portunity to hear commentary to give you of Tibetan monks to the sublime smiley surprise hit, The Secret Garden: An Inky even deeper insight. face drawn by a modern-day child.

So grab a box of pencils, a blank

The benefits of meditation are widely Treasure Hunt and Coloring Book, adult known. East came West in a popular way coloring books have recently blossomed sheet of paper and find a quiet space. in the 1960s and 1970s when the Beatles into a craze. A walk through a bookstore Center yourself. Take a deep breath in, and let it out as you begin to meditate. met the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi and began these days will usually reveal an entire learning transcendental meditation. Then table devoted to the topic with dozens of And now, let the coloring flow.

Dr. Herbert Benson wrote his classic 1975 titles to choose from. There are Basbestseller, The Relaxation Response, which ford’s books, along with many books of Meg Reilly, MS, CH, is a holistic lifecycle he characterized as “a physical state of paisleys, patterns, fractals and, of course, counselor and consulting hypnotist. She is deep rest that changes the physical and mandalas. a wellness director for Camp AmeriKids,

While all forms of coloring can be emotional responses to stress... and the consultant for The ELM Project Mentor very relaxing, creating and coloring one’s opposite of the fight or flight response.”

Program, and a wedding officiant with the Fifteen years later, Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi own mandala can be therapeutic. Combin- Universal Life Church. For many years, ing meditation with mandala drawing can she has helped teens and adults examine, introduced us to “flow”, characterized as create great opportunities for self-exam“a state of consciousness [in which one understand and integrate their multiple ination and growth. Carl Jung famously is] completely absorbed in an activity, body, mind and spirit lifecycles. worked with mandalas as he developed especially an activity which involves their Connect with her at MegReilly360.com the foundations of 20th century psychother- or MegReilly360@gmail.com. creative abilities.”

Mandalas, Meditation and Manifesting

Coloring for Therapy and Relaxation

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Expressing Self with SoulCollage An Intersection of Creativity and Meditation

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the individual and work through current issues.

Small collages are created using images cut out of magazines, cards and books; the meditation part occurs when journaling using suggested questions is applied to the created collage. The method of creating art with existing images has been used in prisons, with at-risk youth, children, aging and assisted living communities, and the community at large. For example, a cancer patient felt that without her SoulCollage practice she would have gone into a deep, debilitating depression. She ended up writing a book about her experience and, to this day, credits her ability to express some of the fears and pain of this disease on her created cards as an integral part of her healing and remission.

As with yoga and meditation, SoulCollage as a practice can deepen over time and be used to create a more integrated life. The application of knowledge that can come from cards is ongoing, as is their creation. Once we have created a deck—which can be from 10 to 100 or more cards—we can use them to guide us through just about any issue before us.

With the fast pace of our lives, permitting inner rumination can sometimes seem a waste of valuable time. However, numerous studies at University of Pennsylvania, Harvard and Stanford concur that the very act of sitting down, listening to our intuition and allowing the luxury to create can, in the long run, make our lives more productive and fulfilling.

Zelie Pforzheimer, a performing artist, is a Wilton-based SoulCollage facilitator who offers classes and retreats. Contact her at PforZSoulCollage.com or PforZSoul@gmail.com.

See ad, page 9.

by Zelie Pforzheimer

he New York Times published an article on the cover of their Sunday Review section titled “We’re All Artist’s Now”, accompanied by several unfinished line drawings. Numerous adult-oriented coloring books have been best sellers because it allows those who don’t consider themselves artists the child-like play of coloring. Apparently many are longing to use their creative sides.

“Often the hands will solve a mystery that the intellect has struggled with in vain,” said Carl Jung. Recent studies confirm that minds that have had the time and space to be creative are able to solve problems previously considered impossible. Harvard has recently done studies about the effect of meditation and creative arts on the brain; they show that participating in a practice on a daily basis for 20 minutes a day can actually change an individual’s neuroplasticity in as little as eight weeks. An art form called SoulCollage melds the practice of creating art and meditation, creating opportunity for self-expression.

SoulCollage was developed by Seena Frost in the early 21st century as a vehicle for self-inquiry understanding and healing. It is now taught in 23 countries by over 2,500 facilitators. SoulCollage is a meditative creative process that mines your inner life to assist in creating a more productive and integrated outer life. The point of the exercise is not to create art—though this is accomplished—but to tune in and clarify what is going on inside

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December 2015

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practitionerprofiles Integrative Healing Arts

Zelie Pforzheimer

Kaitlin Clark In-home, New Milford and Kent 860-488-0254 • IntegrativeHealingArt@gmail.com IntegrativeHealingArt.com Facebook.com/Integrative-HealingArts-1600057143571869

199 Hurlbutt St, Wilton 203-856-4758 PforZSoul@gmail.com PforZSoulCollage.com

Business/Practice summary and/or services offered: Integrative Healing Arts offers a variety of wellness/healing modalities including workshops and classes for toddlers and teens through adult, Reiki energy healing sessions, wellness consultations and creative movement classes.

What drew you to this work as a profession?

Each of us has a unique path in Kaitlin Clark wellness. I became inspired to offer the services and modalities that assisted my personal journey. I offer back what I received.

Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: BFA in photography, certification in art education, an MA in integrative health and healing, certified in Reiki. I am currently completing certification as a nutrition and wellness consultant.

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

I am a compassionate listener and honor time and energy as precious gifts. I am supportive and inspire to learn, heal and grow in all of the services I offer.

How has your work/business evolved? What new are you offering heading into 2016?

The evolution of IHA is rooted in creative inspiration. Its flow and expansion of offerings continues to grow and bring more unique opportunities for groups and sessions with clients individually.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

I truly love this field and enjoy working with both individuals and groups. I am seeing clients and teaching workshops regularly at Terraloka Massage and Wellness Studio in Kent.

Business/Practice summary and/or services offered: Introduction to SoulCollage classes, classes on the 4 suits, special themed evenings to create SoulCollage cards for special events.

What drew you to this work as a profession?

It fulfills my desire to help people mine their inner life to create a more integrated and productive outer life.

Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: SoulCollage facilitator, community facilitator, board member of Circle of Care.

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

The discovery of what needs to be dealt with in an immediate way and the tools to work through current issues in their life in a creative way.

How has your work/business evolved? What new are you offering heading into 2016?

Heading into 2016, I am looking forward to offering a retreat including other professionals in related discovery practices such as Journey Dance or NIA, yoga and life mapping. The first of these will happen in February.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

That it combines creativity and meditation—two practices scientifically proven to create balance, fulfillment and productivity in individuals. That the practice of SoulCollage can create emotional stability and increased happiness.

The truth you believe and cling to makes you unavailable to hear anything new. ~Pema Chödrön

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The Dancing Curtain, LLC

Mimi Lagana

Khristee Rich 67 Saint Johns Rd, Ridgefield 203-733-8250 • Khristee@TheDancingCurtain.com TheDancingCurtain.com Twitter.com/DancingCurtain Instagram.com/KhristeeRich Meetup.com/Fairfield-County-Joy-Seekers-Meetup

Certified Professional Coach and Consultant, MS in Psychology Greenwich 203-964-7231

Business/Practice summary and/or services offered: Health and wellness services: Reiki healing (a blend of Reiki, shamanism and intuitive guidance available in person and through distant healing), coaching (Reiki and coaching blend) and Chakradance (a healing dance that balances our chakras which includes dance, meditation and creating art mandalas).

Khristee Rich

What drew you to this work as a profession?

I was sick with a chronic illness for 15 years. Doctors could not properly diagnose or treat me. During that time, I explored alternative health and wellness, I healed myself and made it my mission to help others.

Business/Practice summary and/or services offered: Mimi specializes in authentic living, artistic development, creative and fact-based writing, career changes, inner and outer relationships, autism spectrum disorders and spiritual exploration. Sessions are conducted by telephone.

What drew you to this work as a profession?

Mimi’s transformational coaching work is informed by her personal experience with a son on the autism spectrum, combined with her psychology background and love of expressive arts.

Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: Reiki, shamanism, Chakradance. Specialize in helping people with chronic illness, chronic pain, those who “have tried everything” to no avail until they met me. Specialize in spreading joy, laughter and healing.

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

A healing relaxing Reiki session with lots of amazing insight, guidance and strong pain relief; a joyful, fun healing dance class that is enlightening, balancing and invigorating.

How has your work/business evolved? What new are you offering heading into 2016?

My business started as a comedy/entertainment business focused on healing through laughter and has developed into a healthy living business. More Chakradance workshops/ classes and Reiki events coming up soon.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

I am a bi-coastal healer/Chakradance facilitator who divides her time between California and Connecticut. Sign up on my newsletter for joy, inspiration and to be informed about upcoming Chakradance workshops.

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

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therapyspotlight

patients received energy therapy treatments only, while the other half received cognitive behavior therapy, and medication as needed as the standard treatment for anxiety disorder. At the end of the trial, 90 percent of the energy therapy patients showed some improvement, as compared to 63 percent of the group that received cognitive behavior therapy. Most surprisingly, 76 percent of the energy therapy patients experienced complete remission of symptoms, compared to 51 percent of the control group.

Acupoints derive from the meridian system of Traditional Chinese Medicine, a 2,000-year-old discipline that, despite its antiquity, is still the most widely practiced medicine in the world. Ayurveda, an even older system developed in India 5,000 years ago, also identified sensitive points on the skin, called marma points. The manipulation of these points, most often using sustained finger pressure in a circular pattern (although tapping and needling are also employed), has been used to treat illnesses affecting the nervous system and organ systems as well as mental imbalances. It seems no coincidence

by Lorraine Gengo that the marma points used to treat anxiety in he idea that intentional touch can uplift “Indeed, there are probably no other the ayurvedic system are exactly the same as the acupoints tapped by energy therapists in or shift our mood and positively affect effects in massage therapy research that Andrade’s research studies. our emotions is an intuitive, primal have been as consistently demonstrated

Dr. Vasant Lad, widely credited with impulse. Not until relatively recently has sci- as these mental health benefits,” writes bringing the teachings of Ayurveda to the ence tried to quantify or study how intention- Christopher A. Moyer, Ph.D., in Massage al touch can powerfully influence our emoTherapy, Integrating Research and Practice. United States, discusses the similarities of tional well-being and psychology. Ancient Moyer was the lead researcher in the 2004 the two systems in Marma Points of Ayurveda, a book he coauthored with his student, wisdom combined with modern technology’s meta-study.

Anisha Durve, who is also trained in acuThe aforementioned analysis did not ability to map the brain has illuminated how puncture. They found that “nearly 75 of the delve into how or why different styles of touch is yielding promising findings in the 117 principal marmani [plural for marma] bodywork might be more or less successarea of treating anxiety disorders. correspond exactly to principal acupoints in

Anxiety afflicts roughly 40 million ful in reducing anxiety. However, pioneers Chinese medicine.” Many of these identical adults in the U.S., according to Anxiety in energy psychology have demonstrated points are located on the head, face and Disorders Association of America; massage that manual manipulation of acupuncture neck and are useful in treating anxiety. therapy has conclusively been shown to points, when combined with imagery and

Lad suggests that perhaps a similar help. Researchers at University of Illinois visualization, has been highly effective in mechanism exits in both systems that brings at Urbana-Champaign wanted to see how treating a range of psychological conditions. about the previously cited effects. Though

In “An Overview of Research in effective massage therapy was in nine diffurther study is certainly warranted, existing ferent areas, including its effect on blood Energy Psychology,” David Feinstein, Ph.D., research suggests that stimulating these points pressure, heart rate, pain, and anxiety and cites the groundbreaking work of South depression. After analyzing 37 studies, the American physician and acupuncturist Dr. releases endorphins and neurotransmitters— like serotonin—in the brain. This then helps researchers found that, by far, massage Joaquín Andrade, who conducted the first modulate pain and enhance moods, and may therapy’s most substantial effect was in large-scale clinical trial into the manual also help an overtaxed autonomic nervous reducing chronic or “trait” anxiety. In fact, “tapping” technique on acupoints (as opsystem return to more balanced function. posed to needles) to treat patients with a massage therapy’s benefits were similar Best of all, it does so without the side effects host of anxiety-related conditions. For 14 in magnitude to those of psychotherapy. years, Andrade conducted many studies at that often accompany medications.

According to the meta-analysis, massage clinics in Argentina and Uruguay, but the therapy participants experienced a reduction of trait anxiety 77 percent greater one Feinstein notes as the most credible Lorraine Gengo, LMT, provides ayurvedic than comparison group participants. The for its adherence to research standards was massage and marma point therapy to researchers estimated that “the average conducted over a five-and-a-half-year peri- patients at the New England Institute for od, involving approximately 5,000 patients Neurology and Headache and High Qualpsychotherapy client fares 79 percent better than untreated clients.” diagnosed with anxiety disorders. Half the ity Home Therapy, in Stamford, CT.

Intentional Touch for Anxiety Disorders Massage Research Proves Mental Health Benefits

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practitionerprofiles Robin Ordan, LMT

2001 West Main St, Ste 142, Stamford 203-561-8535 OrdanR@hotmail.com RobinOrdanLMT.com Business/Practice summary and/or services offered: Robin has been practicing massage and teaching infant massage for over 20 years. She is skilled in multiple massage techniques and specializes in craniosacral therapy, Swedish, pregnancy massage and Reiki.

What drew you to this work as a profession?

I am passionate about the Robin Ordan powerful impact touch and therapeutic massage can play in maintaining wellness and facilitating healing.

Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: Certified infant massage instructor, certified in prenatal massage and craniosacral therapy and Reiki.

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

Improved sense of well-being and relaxation, reduction in stress and muscular discomfort, increased range of motion and flexibility, improved sleep and feeling nurtured.

How has your work/business evolved?

I am continually seeking out new modalities and ways to advance the effectiveness of my work. Keeping informed about therapeutic massage research and participating in courses to further my skill and ability to facilitate healing. I am looking forward to introducing the benefits of craniosacral therapy to a larger audience in 2016.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

Massage therapy is a powerful wellness tool and an important element to incorporate into the maintaining your health, managing your stress and taking good care of your mind and body on a regular basis.

The greatest healing therapy is friendship and love. ~Hubert H. Humphrey

Essence Holistic Center Kimberly Joyner 246 Federal Rd, Suite C-23b, Brookfield 203-733-0595 KimberlyJoyner17@ymail.com EssenceHolisticCenter@yahoo.com Facebook.com/Essence-HolisticCenter-331034397051040 Twitter.com/EssenceHolistic

Business/practice summary and/ or services offered: Here at Essence Holistic Center, we treat the mind, body and spirit as one. We offer many forms of holistic care from massage to Reiki to cleansing to Thai stretch.

We also offer hypnosis for relaxation and stress management as well as herbal treatments and funfilled classes such as henna art.

Kimberly Joyner

What drew you to this work as a profession?

My calling into the holistic field came from sustaining a back injury while working as an EMT. I tried many ways to recover but benefited most by seeing a massage therapist and physical therapist. It set me on my path into massage therapy and holistic care. I wanted to share with others that there are other ways to recovery and change for the better.

Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: While attending CCMT in Newington, Connecticut, I studied many different types of massage, such as Thai massage, lomi lomi, therapeutic and personal touch. After graduation and then studying to become a Reiki master, I knew I wanted to teach. I also studied hypnosis for stress management and relaxation.

What should a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

We take the time for specialized individual care for each of our clients. We treat them as a whole by listening to their concerns and needs while we address their personal wellness program.

How has your work/business evolved? What new are you offering heading into 2016?

We’re going to expand the classes offered. We will also offer three new massages, including a Shea butter body wrap nighttime massage. Our foot and oil massage is a perfect lunch-time break.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

We will keep striving to bring you quality care to help achieve your personal goals. eNaturalAwakenings.com

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INSPIRED

TABLE

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

203-885-4674

inspiredtable New Robeks Location Launches in Danbury

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new Robeks smoothie and juice location has opened up in Danbury. The store offers on-the-go premium smoothies and fresh juices that use naturally ripe fruits and vegetables and no artificial ingredients or flavorings. Since 1996, the Robeks franchise focus has been on delivering nutritious and delicious meal and snack options and helping customers enjoy life while making healthy choices.

Robeks also offers a Build Your Own Juice Bar option to enable customers to customize their fresh juices and smoothies made with farm-fresh fruits and vegetables. You can select from the spread of fresh fruits and vegetables on display and then watch as a Robeks employee turns your personalized choice of ingredients into a customized juice.

For more information, visit Robeks.com, email Danbury.Robeks@gmail.com or call 203-300-5506. Store hours: Monday-Friday 7am-9pm, Saturday 8am-9pm and Sunday 9am-7pm. Location: 109 Federal Rd, Danbury.

Fragrant Basil Juice Café Hosts Wellness Matters

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ragrant Basil Juice Café in Norwalk will hold its first Wellness Matters workshop on December 7 from 6:30 to 8pm. Owners Sean and Tanisha Williams, passionate about food and health, opened their café as a part of their community service and now offer the Wellness Matters series to expand that mission. A number of speakers who are professionals in their respective fields will cover a broad range of wellness-related topics during the coming months.

December’s speaker, Robert Grady, will be speaking from the gut about the gut and your health. Grady is a retired Navy chief petty officer, former Navy command fitness coordinator and healthy food choices advocate. He is also district Robert Grady manager of Natural Awakenings in Fairfield and New Haven/Middlesex counties.

All the Wellness Matters workshops will be held at Fragrant Basil Juice Café.

Future dates and times will be posted on FragrantBasilJuiceCafe.com. Light refreshments will be provided. Donations are welcome.

For more information, visit FragrantBasilJuiceCafe or call 203-855-0050.

Location: Fragrant Basil Juice Café, 34 Main St, Norwalk (adjacent to the McMahon Ford dealership).

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Dr. T. Colin Campbell on the

BENEFITS OF A PLANT-BASED DIET

by Sandy Pukel

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tion, according to r. T. Colin some sources. Even Campbell, the the livestock interJacob Gould est group with the Schurman professor Food and Agriculture emeritus of NutriOrganization of tional Biochemistry at the United Nations Cornell University, is has estimated for the co-author of The at least the past 10 China Study, author years that this conof Whole: Rethinking tribution, although the Science of Nutricited lower at 14.5 to tion and was featured 18 percent, outranks in the film Forks Over even the transportaKnives. In his 70-plus Colin Campbell tion sector. years, he has written

The signifimore than 300 research cance relates to methane production, papers on diet, nutrition and health based on laboratory research and large- which has a far higher capacity on a molecular level to trap and hold heat scale human studies in China and the energy in the atmosphere than carbon Philippines. He founded the nonprofit dioxide, although it has a shorter life.

T. Colin Campbell Center for Nutrition Its effect multiplies because a faster Studies, in Ithaca, New York. rise in temperature leads to permafrost melting and an additional release The terms “vegan diet” and “plantof methane. Other serious problems based diet” are often used interassociated with livestock production changeably, but is there a difference? include loss of topsoil, contamination In past years, most people that chose of groundwater, depletion of deepwaa vegan diet did so for ideological ter aquifers and pollution of oceans reasons, without fully understanding and reefs. the scientific basis for this choice. As a result, the average vegan diet is not very healthy, nutritionally speaking— Are all animal proteins harmful to it’s much too high in total fat (about 30 health, or is dairy particularly detripercent of total calories) and refined mental? carbohydrates (sugar and flour), often The casein effect of dairy products in the form of processed foods. on cancer can be generalized to all animal proteins, based on comparing What are the main ecological and its adverse effects on serum cholesenvironmental benefits of a plantterol, development of cardiovascular based diet? disease, excessive cell replication and Methane production by livestock is a inflammation. Just as important, diets major contributor to climate change, with more animal protein are prone responsible for as much as 50 percent to include less plant-based foods that of current greenhouse gas producprovide many essential health benefits.

Is there any evidence indicating that a diet that includes 5 to 10 percent of high-quality animal protein is less healthy than a 100 percent vegan diet?

To my knowledge, absent published direct evidence, there is a strong commonsense impression that a 100 percent plant diet is better than anything less. This is probably best answered by evidence from population-based studies showing a linear association of disease occurring with increasing consumption of animal-based foods, with zero disease at zero consumption of animal products. However, it’s also true that individual susceptibilities vary considerably.

My best estimate is that it’s easier and safer to consume no animal-based food because it better allows emergence of new taste perception.

What can healthy eaters do to spread awareness of the benefits of such a lifestyle?

Opportunities abound, including organizing a local showing of the film PlantPure Nation and a PlantPure pod program. You might enroll in the online plant-based nutrition certificate program partnered by the T. Colin Campbell Center for Nutrition Studies and Cornell University’s online curriculum and/or enroll in the Global Roots Health Experience conference this April in the Dominican Republic.

T. Colin Campbell, Ph.D., will be a keynote speaker on the Holistic Holiday at Sea cruise, departing on its 13th Caribbean Voyage to Well-Being on Feb. 27, 2016. For more information, call 800-496-0989 or visit HolisticHolidayAtSea.com. See ad, page 79.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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SWEETLY VEGAN No-Bake Holiday Treats Worth Celebrating

by Judith Fertig

“

V

isions of sugar plums” have been part of holiday mindsets since the advent of Clement Moore’s classic 19th-century poem commonly known as ’Twas the Night Before Christmas.

We love to give and receive special treats and our tastes are evolving.

Instead of yesteryear’s sugary bonbons loaded with calories that we’ve come to

Photo by Stephen Blancett

consciouseating

Teresa Cutter, author of Purely Delicious. Cutter is founder and director of The Healthy Chef company, in Sydney, Australia, which creates functional foods for taste and optimal health.

Her no-bake desserts such as miniature Christmas puddings and carrot cake take only minutes to make.

Emily Holmes, a Queensland, Australia, wellness coach who blogs at Conscious-Foodie.com, says her favorite is Holmes’ Chocolate Cherry Mini-Cupcakes. She serves them with a pot of peppermint tea.

Houston-based Joshua Weissman is the author of The Slim Palate Paleo Cookbook and blogs at SlimPalate. com. He shares his philosophy on holiday treats: “My first thought is that I don’t want to feel guilty after eating it. My second is that I still want it to taste and look good.” His Almond Butter Pumpkin Pie Truffles fit the festive bill.

In New York City, noted vegan cookbook author and Pastry Chef Fran Costigan is an expert in all things chocolate, including her Chocolate Orange Sesame Truffles. “When you make something really delicious with real ingredients, your mouth knows it, your brain knows it, your body knows it. You feel satisfied,” she says.

regret, today’s preferred confections focus more on naturally sweet dried fruits, best-quality chocolate, healthful coconut and crunchy nuts. Vegan, glutenfree delicacies from chefs and culinary experts the world over help us celebrate the season in a deliciously healthy way, including those we highlight this month. Judith Fertig blogs at AlfrescoFood AndLifestyle.blogspot.com from “Christmas isn’t Christmas withOverland Park, KS. out a traditional pudding,” says Chef

1525 Black Rock Tpke Fairfield CT 06825 203.576.1455

We are a full service bakery specializing in custom cakes, gourmet cupcakes, pastries, cookies and desserts. Gluten free options are available.

www.alinaspatisserie.com 52

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Home

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Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right. ~Oprah Winfrey

No-Bake Festive Vegan Desserts Teresa Cutter’s Healthy Christmas Puddings Yields: 6 to 8 small puddings 8 oz fresh pitted dates— approximately 10 to 15 dates, depending on their size Zest from 1 orange 9 oz dried apricots, chopped 1½ cups almond meal/ ground almonds 1 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract 1 tsp ground cinnamon ¼ tsp ground nutmeg ¼ tsp ground ginger 1 to 2 Tbsp orange juice 3 oz white chocolate, melted, for decoration (optional)

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Combine dates, orange zest, apricots, vanilla, ground almonds, cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger in a food processor.

Process until mixture is combined and looks like fine crumbs.

Spoon the mixture into a large bowl. Add the orange juice, and then mix again. Pudding mix should come together when lightly hand-squeezed.

Divide into 6 small puddings. Line the base of 6 small decorative molds with plastic wrap and firmly press the puddings into them.

Once firmly packed in the mold, invert the pudding and remove the plastic wrap.

Melt white chocolate in a small bowl set over a simmering pot of water.

Spoon a little white chocolate over the tops of the puddings if desired and garnish with goji berries, fresh cherries or another fanciful topper.

Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Serve puddings with chilled mango coconut custard.

Natural Awakenings recommends using organic and non-GMO (genetically modified) ingredients whenever possible.

Whole Foods Market is bringing you natural & organic foods at premium quality, not premium prices.

Westport 399 Post Road West, CT 203.227.6858 Greenwich 90 E. Putnam Avenue, CT 203.661.0631 Darien 150 Ledge Road, CT 203.662.0577 eNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2015

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Nature’s Temptations

Your HealTHY FooD MarKeT

where community and healthy food is our priority

orgaNic • local • SuSTaiNable Produce • Meats & Seafood • Bulk Foods Juice Bar • Cafe • Prepared Foods • Deli Vitamins • Health & Beauty • Well Baby Catering for all Occasions

naturestemptations.com

Fran Costigan’s Chocolate Orange Sesame Truffles Yields: 20 to 24 (1-inch) truffles This creamy chocolate truffle has a slightly chewy texture with a coating for color and crunch. Raw tahini is sweeter than when it is roasted but either kind is good.

Truffle Ganache 4 oz dark fair trade chocolate (70 to 72 percent), finely chopped Finely minced zest of half of a medium-sized orange 3 Tbsp orange juice ¼ cup agave syrup 1 Tbsp raw or roasted tahini, stirred 1½ Tbsp white sesame seeds, lightly toasted 1½ Tbsp black sesame seeds, lightly toasted Place the chocolate in a small heat-proof bowl.

Mix the orange zest and juice and agave in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat just to a boil.

Reduce the heat to low and add the tahini, whisking vigorously. The mixture will thicken immediately. Don’t be concerned if it looks broken or curdled; it will smooth out with whisking.

1084 Post Road, Darien • 24 Railroad Place, Westport www.olivettect.com • (203) 621-0643

Simmer the mixture for 30 seconds until it’s shiny and smooth. Remove from heat and wait about 30 seconds until it’s no longer steaming and then pour it over the chocolate.

Cover the bowl with a plate. Wait 1 minute and then stir until the chocolate is completely melted. Note: The ganache will not be perfectly smooth.

Come visit

The Common Bond Market • Store-made hot food and soups every day, with vegan and vegetarian options • Made-to-order sandwiches at our deli

• Now offering organic and craft beer • Well-stocked supplement dept. with knowlegeable and helpful staff

• Catering by our chef off

• Order grocery by the case and save 10%

40 Huntington St. Shelton, CT 203.513.8200 54

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Cool to room temperature, stirring a few times using a silicone spatula.

Spoon into a small shallow container and refrigerate uncovered about 2 hours until the ganache is firm. The ganache can be covered and refrigerated at this point for up to 1 week.

Shape Truffle Centers Remove the ganache from the refrigerator. Use one spoon to scoop out 1-inch pieces of ganache and another to push it off the spoon into the container. When half the ganache has been used, roll into logs about 1-inch long, washing and drying hands as needed. (If, at any time, the ganache becomes too soft to shape, refrigerate until cold before proceeding.)

Cover and refrigerate the truffle centers 15 to 25 minutes to set, before final shaping and finishing with the sesame seed coating.

Truffle Coating Mix the sesame seeds in a small bowl. Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons on the bottom of a shallow container.

Put a few logs at a time into the bowl of sesame seeds and roll until lightly coated. Pinch the ends to form the oval quenelle (football) shape.

Place the finished truffles in the refrigerator to set for 35 to 45 minutes.

Teresa Cutter’s No-Bake Carrot Cake

Serving the local community delicious pies for 35 years!

Yields: 16 servings 2½ cups (9½ oz) shelled walnuts 1 Tbsp ground flaxseed or whole chia seeds ½ cup (2 oz) rolled oats (or gluten-free almond meal) 1 tsp ground cinnamon ¼ tsp ground ginger ¼ tsp ground nutmeg ¼ tsp sea salt 1 cup (6½ oz) of 12 large fresh dates, pitted ½ cup (3 oz) dried chopped apricots or pineapple (sulfur-free) 2 large raw carrots, grated Zest from 1 orange 2 tsp vanilla bean paste

Combine walnuts, flaxseed, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, orange zest and sea salt into a food processor and run it until mixed and finely chopped. Add dates and apricots. Process again until thoroughly mixed.

Add grated raw carrot and vanilla and then process again until combined. The mix should now form a nice dough.

Spoon into a bowl. Add and knead oats through the raw carrot cake mixture.

Fruit Sourced from Local Farms Gluten-free Options H No Sugar Added

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Just in time for Hanukkah & Christmas!

FREE with any $60 order Visit whistlestopbakery.com for full menu selection.

Email orders to: orders.whistlestopbakery@gmail.com

All orders must be placed on Wednesday for weekend delivery.

Three day lead time for all other delivery days.

For more information call 203-544-8139 WHISTLE STOP BAKERY 20 Portland Avenue, Ridgefield, CT 06877 whistlestopbakery.com H whistlestopbakery

SMASHED POTATOES WITH STILTON (Serves 8)

Press cake firmly into a 6-inch round baking dish lined with parchment paper.

This is a rich side dish, ideal for serving with holiday roasts. Buy a larger wedge of Stilton (this recipe needs only about 1 1/2 ounces) and serve the remainder at another meal with quince spread or a jar of cranberry chutney.

Refrigerate until ready to serve, allowing at least 2 hours for the cake to rest. It will keep in the refrigerator for about a week.

INGREDIENTS:

Enjoy as is or garnish with macadamia nut cream, a drizzle of honey and walnuts.

2 1/4 pound small red potatoes, scrubbed and halved 2/3 cup warm milk 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Note: Other raw nuts can substitute for walnuts—try pecans, almonds or macadamia nuts.

1/4 cup crumbled Stilton cheese

Macadamia Nut Cream Combine 1 cup of raw cashew nuts or macadamia nuts with ½ cup of orange juice or coconut water and a little vanilla. Blend in a high-speed blender like a Vitamix until smooth and creamy.

• Put potatoes in a large saucepan and cover with cold salted water by 1 inch. Bring to a boil over high heat, lower heat and simmer, covered, until very tender when pierced with the tip of a knife, 12 to 15 minutes. Drain and return potatoes to the pan. Add milk, butter and salt; mash with a potato masher or large fork just until mixed and chunky.

Adapted from Vegan Chocolate, by Fran Costigan, used with permission.

1/4 cup finely chopped toasted walnuts

• To serve, reheat potatoes if necessary (add more water or milk if they seem too stiff). Spoon onto a platter and sprinkle with Stilton and walnuts. eNaturalAwakenings.com

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Mastering

YOGA

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

This section provides connections to studios and teachers in the area, as well as helpful editorial to support your efforts to improve your practice.

yogabrief

Kripalu Gentle Kundalini Vinyasa Prenatal

New Card Deck and Book Set Focuses on Mudras for Wellness

L

ocal yoga and meditation teacher Alison DeNicola has authored the MUDRAS for Awakening the Energy Body deck and book set with artist Sabina Espinet. Published

by US Games Systems, the card deck presents 40 cards representing chakras and hand mudras for awakening energy and whole body wellness. The 112page guidebook offers instructions, health benefits and guided practices. The set will be available December 1 at local yoga studios or online at USGamesInc.com.

The local studios offering the set include Dew Yoga in Stamford, Be Shri Yoga in Greenwich, Open Sky Yoga Barn in Redding and Finding Feathers in Fairfield.

For more information, visit USGamesInc.com.

40 + Classes a Week!

All Levels A Diverse Selection of Workshops 200 Hour RYT Teacher Training 30 Days/$30 Introductory Offer 50% Student Discounts (203) 254-YOGA 27 Unquowa Rd. Fairfield, CT 06824 www.yoga4everybody.net

LifePath Yoga & Wellness Your Personal Path to Wellness

Private & Group Classes: • Corporate Wellness • Yoga ~ all styles & levels • Life/Business Coaching • Mindfulness Meditation • Holistic Seminars/Workshops • Reiki & Mindful Healing

Nina Antolino RYT, RMT, MBA | nina@lifepathyoga.net 430 Main Ave., 2nd Floor, Norwalk, CT | 203-354-7070 | www.lifepathyoga.net

No pretense, just authenticity….

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fitbody

Calf Stretch

Airplane “Yoga”

Upper Body Stretch

Six Easy Stretches Ease the Journey

T

by Cynthia Bowman

he majority of the symptoms we can experience during flying—stiffness, poor circulation and swollen feet—are due to lack of movement rather than the altitude or pressurized cabin air. Knowing this can make healthy flying easier.

Drinking lots of water and moving about and stretching every two to three hours on long flights is key; trips to the bathroom naturally help fulfill this. We also can keep blood from collecting in our lower extremities by finding a way to elevate our legs and feet periodically. Wiggle all 10 toes, shift positions and go for these six discreet airplane yoga stretches.

Etiquette tip: Do the first two stretches at the back of the plane with adequate space and a wall to lean on. Don’t do these in the aisle; hanging on to someone’s seat back rocks it and can be annoying.

A quad stretch involves the shoulders, upper legs, calves and ankles, while elevating each foot and getting the blood moving.

Hang on to a wall, grab an ankle and bring the heel as close to the butt as possible. Then rotate the ankle in a circular motion. Do this as long as it feels worth doing, and then switch arms and legs.

A calf stretch is a simple way to target calf and hamstring muscles, as well as ankles. Stand facing a wall, placing both hands at shoulQuad Stretch

Neck Stretch

Twisting the Torso

Bending Forward

der height on the wall for balance, elbows bent. Take one foot forward and rest it on its heel, with toes pointing up and resting on the wall.

Lean forward to the point of feeling a good stretch in the calf. Stretch 30 seconds per foot, gradually going deeper into the pose after a few breaths.

Etiquette tip: The next four stretches can be done in an airplane seat or in the back of the plane.

The upper body stretch targets wrists, hands, arms, shoulders, back and the upper body in general. Sit upright with feet firmly planted on the floor. Lift arms up and interlace fingers before turning palms to face the ceiling. Relax the shoulders and neck. The arms shouldn’t be covering the ears and can be adjusted by moving them a few inches forward or back. Tall individuals may need to bend their elbows, which still allows for stretching of the upper body.

Neck stretches release tension and stiffness by tilting the head from side-to-side. Don’t make circular motions, as they can cause neck and spine compression. If holding the head to assist a deeper stretch, be considerate of neighbors by pointing the raised elbow forward to cradle the neck instead of resting it on a seatmate.

Twisting the torso benefits both the spine and back muscles. Yogis believe that twisting motions also massage internal organs. While twisting, hang on to the armrest with both hands and sit as upright as possible, with legs together and feet firmly planted. Don’t bounce into the pose or shift or lift buttocks off the seat, but make salow, fluid movements.

Bending forward while seated gives the back, neck and legs a good, deep stretch.

All of these movements work well while we’re in the air and are equally useful on road trips, in the office or whenever we need a break.

Cynthia Bowman is a freelance writer in Los Angeles, CA, who specializes in travel, culture and lifestyle topics. Visit JoyJournist.com.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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healthykids

relationship in accomplishing good.

Using this six-part process of helpful concrete steps applies equally to the children and adults in our lives. n Become aware of the other person’s emotions.

What’s Your Child’s EQ? Six Ways to Raise

n Care about the other person by seeing their emotions as valid and important. n Listen empathetically to better understand the way they feel, allowing them to feel safe to be vulnerable without fear of judgment. Seek to understand, rather than to agree or redirect.

n Acknowledge and validate their feelings. We don’t need to validate that the thoughts they have about their emotions are correct; instead, simply let them know that it’s valid to feel the way that they do. For example, if a friend

by Teal Swan says, “I feel useless,” we could validate uch of our identity is shaped in each child in understanding and coping them by saying, “I can see how you with their emotions. might feel that way.” childhood by key events and the emotions and perspectives n Allow the person to experience their Recipe for a High EQ we associate with them.

Parents can successfully form deeper con- emotions fully before moving toward any kind of improvement. We cannot nections with their kids by recognizing, All Emotions Count respecting and acknowledging their emo- impose our idea of when they should Emotional intelligence, sometimes be ready or able to feel differently. This referred to as EQ, is often overlooked as tional range, rather than telling kids they is when we practice unconditional should feel a certain way. Telling somea skill set in today’s world. The recent presence and unconditional love. We animated film Inside Out calls attention one how they should or shouldn’t feel are there as support, without trying to effective ways of addressing a child’s only teaches them to distrust themselves to fix them or anything else. Don’t be and that there’s something wrong with journey by embracing and better unoffended if they don’t accept support derstanding their emotions; particularly them. As a communication aid, Inside that’s offered at this time. A benevolent Out may speak best to older children, those that don’t feel positive. power is inherent in offering love that because younger viewers may get the

A recent study by the London erroneous impression that emotions can exists regardless of what someone does School of Economics Centre for Ecoor does not do with it. nomic Performance found that a child’s control them, rather than that they can control their own emotional reactions. n Help the other person to strategize emotional health is far more impor The recipe for healthy bonding and ways to manage the reactions they tant in determining future happiness emotional development is for all parties might be having to their emotions afthan factors such as academic success to model how they value the importance ter—and only after—their feelings have or wealth. Parents can help ensure a been validated, acknowledged and fully healthy emotional upbringing by avoid- of each other’s feelings and respectfully listen for the feelings behind the words. felt. This is when we can assert new ing making three mistakes.

In opening ourselves to being underways of looking at a situation that may

Disapproval of a child’s emostood, we open ourselves to understand- improve the way another person is feeltions: This involves being critical of a child’s displays of negative emotion and ing others. Good parenting involves emo- ing. This is when advice may be offered.

When done successfully, this proreprimanding or punishing the child for tion. Good relationships involve emotion.

The bottom line is that emotions matter. cess can transform a conflict encounexpressing them.

We all struggle with negative emo- tered in a relationship into solid gold.

Dismissing a child’s emotions: tions from time to time, and the way This comes across as regarding a Teal Swan is the author of Shadows child’s emotions as unimportant, either we address and deal with them influences our emotional health. The goal Before Dawn: Finding the Light of Selfthrough ignoring their emotions, or is to develop a trustworthy emotional Love Through Your Darkest Times, on worse, trivializing them. how healing hidden wounds reveals our connection with the other person that

Offering little relevant guidance: authentic selves (TealSwan.com). Inside is important to us, which enhances While parents may empathize, they Out will be released next month on DVD. intimacy and the effectiveness of the don’t set limits on behavior or assist

Emotional Intelligence

M

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December 2015

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GIFTS WITH GREAT INTENTIONS Spiritually Charged Items Invite Belief

by Sheri Hatfield

T

he holidays are here, and with them the joy and stress of giving gifts. With obligations to offer family gifts, teacher gifts, holiday gifts, hostess gifts and more, it can all become overwhelming, especially for those trying to lead a more intentional life and give personal gifts from the heart.

It is at this time that intentional gifts—items infused with love, hope, abundance, creativity and other positive intentions—seem like a great idea.

The giver can choose an item that is filled with their wish for the receiver while giving something useful, beautiful and thoughtful. Do these work? The answer is simply complicated.

Science has shown us that everything is made up of atoms. Atoms vibrate; this means everything we can touch has its own vibration. Take, for instance, a rose quartz. The atoms that make up a rose quartz vibrate at a rate called a frequency. Everything made of matter has its own unique frequency.

Donald L. Cronin, Ph.D., professor emeritus of mechanical and aerospace engineering at Missouri University of Science and Technology, conducted fundamental research on energy dissipation in dynamic systems 60

Fairfield County Edition

and applied research for the automotive industry. He specializes in vibrations and consulted for NASA and Ford on the effects of vibrations on rockets and vehicles.

Cronin was asked if stones, such as a rose quartz, could have their own vibration. “On a sub-microscopic level, matter may be pictured as a virtual framework—a force field—within which atoms are trapped like flies in a spider web,” he says. “So constrained, they buzz and buzz— little vibrating things.

Our ultimate clock these days bases its infallible accuracy on the vibration of atoms. On a larger scale, crystals can be made to vibrate at frequencies controlled by their shape and size. Think of the crystal sets of early day radios. The crystals responded to electromagnetic waves transmitted through the air by vibrating themselves with sufficient energy to produce audible sound. So that answers the question of the capability of the vibration of inanimate objects. A rose quartz crystal can have a vibratory signal,” Cronin states.

He says scientifically there is not enough credible evidence to support that people are able to pick up on the vibrations of an object, or send energy

natural awakenings

into an object. But he continues “Is that a yes or a no? It’s neither.”

Knowing everything has its own vibration—and there is a lack of scientific proof that humans can feel that vibration—how do we know intentional items like Reiki-charged candles or crystals or energy-charged feathers work?

Sierra North, owner of Muktinath Holistic Center in Monroe, offers an explanation. She says for centuries man has been able to feel the vibrations around him and some are more sensitive than others. Through experimentation and meditation over time, people have discerned which vibrations affect different emotions, help in healing, and align to the energy centers in the body— known as the etheric or chakra system.

In the case of stones or crystals, the color of the item typically corresponds with the colors associated with a specific chakra or energy center.

Green and pink are associated with the heart chakra; therefore, rose quartz (pink) and jade (green) are two of the gemstones associated with healing that chakra, explains North.

Like all other items, candles, feathers and oils contain their own vibrational signal. The wax the candle is made with, the oils it is scented with and the wick that runs through it all have a vibration. Vibration itself is neutral; it is then the work of the crafter to set the intention for that item.

By setting an intention, the maker of the item will hold an energetic vibration, North says. Let’s use the example of love again. The trained can tap into the energy of love and infuse that energy into the candle. Think of tuning in a radio to a different channel or frequency. The frequency exists outside the radio and, if trained, we can tap into that energy and tune an item into that frequency. The theory exists that it can be done with other items and frequencies.

There is still debate in the scientific arena regarding the plausibility of emotional energy affecting items.

However, as some scientists are trying to debunk it, others are trying to prove the theory. Perhaps it is a mystery that is not to be known so to cause faith and deepen beliefs while encouraging conversation and exploration.

While intentional items like the

feathers found in North’s Muktinath Holistic Center have been tuned to the frequency of love or abundance, there is also an expectation that the owner or receiver will take part in the intention by saying a prayer or setting the intention specifically for what they want or need.

“I set a general intention of love,” says North. “So I use Reiki energy to channel the vibration of love into the feathers. For this, I use goose feathers in pairs as geese mate for life; I’m setting the general intention for the person who gets these to find their true love and life partner. I also include a prayer that instructs them to further set the intention for their life. They can be as vague or specific as to what they want.

It’s the setting of intention that counts.”

North, a former wildlife rehabilitator, uses both goose and turkey feathers as intentional items. All are dropped feathers found in nature, and North cautions that The Migratory Bird Treaty Act needs to be physically and spiritually respected. We must be careful about the types of feathers we are purchasing, using or giving, she states.

Deana Paqua, of Embody the Sacred in Ridgefield and New Milford, is a teacher of holistic health, shamanic healer, Reiki master and ordained minister who creates her own line of spiritually-blessed, gemstone-charged, and essential oil-infused clearing and blessing sprays. Originally created for her own use, many of Paqua’s clients have become loyal customers after using the sprays and experiencing positive results. These include corporate employees using the sprays to create a more uplifting work environment, healing arts practitioners who use them in their own offices and healing centers, and others using them to calm children, experience better sleep or even help sell their homes.

“I first created my sprays because I had a need to help clients clear their own energy and bring in a positive intention for themselves. I also use them to clear the energy in my office without burning sage or incense, since I work in a holistic psychotherapy practice in an office building, where creating smoke would not be appropriate,” Paqua explains.

“I also use them when performing home and space clearings and blessings. So the sprays were born partly out of practicality and partly out of divine inspiration.”

Paqua’s sprays include a line of over a dozen different themes and intentions, to support clearing heavy and stuck energy while bringing in more positive energy and abundance. These sprays are hand-crafted one bottle at a time and contain natural ingredients without synthetic fragrances or chemicals. They contain essential oils, gem essences, holy water, and are blessed by shamanic ceremony, Reiki, energy channeling and prayers particular to each blend. Some of the most popular include Archangel Michael Clearing and Protection Spray, Archangel Raphael Healing and Blessing Spray, and a Sage and Peppermint Clearing and Blessing Spray.

When selecting gifts infused with energy or intention, like candles, jewelry, stones and a wide variety of others items, it is up to the giver and the users to be open to the vibrations coming from the items to choose the one that speaks to them. North suggests looking with our energy or heart instead of our eyes. Upon finding an item that “feels” perfect for us or a loved one, ask if it includes a written in-

tentional prayer or saying that goes along with it. In that way the owner has the opportunity to customize and enhance the original intention of the item. Then, like many things this holiday season, belief does the rest.

Sheri Hatfield is a freelance writer and co-founder of an emerging children’s museum in Shelton. Connect with her at Sheri@DayDreamerConsulting.com.

Where to Find Intentional Gift Items There are many stores in our area offering intentional items and other products for purchase.

These include: CRYSTAL VISIONS

MOTHER EARTH GALLERY

1 Rt 37 East, Ste 2, Sherman 860-210-9897 CrystalVisionsCT.com

449 Danbury Rd, New Milford 203-775-6272 MotherEarthCrystals.com

HAPPY RAINBOWS

TALISMAN

11 CT-39 #4, Sherman 860-355-4959

150 Main St, Monroe 203-261-0047 TalismanCT.com

LANTERN HOUSE CENTER TOUCH OF SEDONA FOR SERAPHIC LIVING

154 Danbury Rd, Wilton 203-529-1219 LanternHouseLiving.com

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4-oz jar $21.99 • 8-oz bottle $39.99 • FREE SHIPPING (Dec. only) Order today, available only at

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or call: 888-822-0246

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petbriefs Opening Eyes to Winged Wonders

O

The Monthly Naturally Healthy Pet Section Starts Here!

n the first Sunday of the month, December 6, Earthplace in Westport will host a bird-on-glove demonstration at 3pm where you can learn all about birds of prey. At the Winger Wonders event, naturalists will discuss the animals’ traits, behaviors and unique characteristics while the birds interact with their handlers.

Earthplace, based in Westport since 1958, has grown to include many resources such as a state-licensed preschool, a natural history museum, and Harbor Watch, a water quality research program. Earthplace’s sanctuary consists of 74 contiguous acres of open space that supports a variety of habitats and several miles of walking trails. The organization is also home to the live Birds of Prey Exhibit and the indoor Animal Hall for public viewing.

For more information, visit Earthplace.org. Location: Earthplace, 10 Woodside Ln, Westport.

Walk with Birds and Aliens in Greenwich

B

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

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

ruce Museum will host its First Sunday Bird Walk on December 6 at 9am. Enjoy a leisurely outdoor walk to learn about wild birds at Greenwich Point Park, including the winter waterfowl.

Bring binoculars and meet on at Greenwich Point Park’s beach near the southern concession stand.

The event is free with no reservations required. For information, visit BruceMuseum. org/Calendar/Event/First-Sunday-Bird-Walk-at-Greenwich-Point-Park1.

In addition, Bruce Museum will host its Fred Elser First Sunday Science @ Seaside Center on December 6 from 1:30 to 4:30pm. The Aliens! Invasion of the Long Island Sound Estuary event will include a talk at 2pm with George Kraemer, professor of environmental studies and biology at SUNY, Purchase. He will discuss research on the influx of non-native plants and animals into Long Island Sound, with a focus on the Asian shore crab and a red seaweed called Grateloupia. Family activities will be offered throughout the afternoon. The free event will be held in the Innis Arden Cottage at Greenwich Point Park in Old Greenwich.

For information, visit BruceMuseum.org, email CynthiaE@BruceMuseum.org or call 203-413-6756.

Meet a Mutt-i-gree Dog at Stepping Stones

N

orwalk’s PAWS visits Stepping Stones Museum the first Saturday of every month at 11am as part of the national Mutt-i-grees program. Both children and adults alike can enjoy visits from a PAWS dog on December 1 and hear from a PAWS representative about shelter animals, adoption and safe handling techniques (especially geared toward children). In addition, every Tuesday PAWS offers the fun and educational program from 1:30 to 2:30pm.

PAWS is a shelter with a network of volunteers who provide shelter, medical care and affection to animals while finding loving homes for homeless and abused dogs and cats.

For more information, visit PAWSCT.org. Location: Stepping Stones Museum for Children, Mathews Park, 303 West Ave, Norwalk. eNaturalAwakenings.com

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paws. A healthy root chakra is deep red and governs feelings of survival and grounding. This chakra physically relates to intestines, stomach, anus, back legs, hips, and the skeletal and muscular systems.

Emotional manifestation of non-alignment can include: • A strong flight response.

• Being under or overweight with low energy.

• Resource guarding (“all toys are mine, mine, mine”).

• Food aggression.

Healthy Energy Centers Increase Vitality Healing Chakra Imbalances in Pets

by Mary Oquendo

C

hakras are the main energetic centers in the physical body.

Five are located along the spine in conjunction with a major nerve plexus bundle and there are two more in the head. One main difference between animals and people is that pets have an additional major chakra called the Brachial chakra. In addition, animals also have far more sensitive and involved minor chakras located in their ears and paws.

Reiki, acupuncture, acupressure and other forms of energy healing can be used to balance chakras; treatments may also include crystals. In this article we examine each chakra, how it may manifest physically or emotionally in a pet and what crystals may support healing.

Root Chakra

The root chakra is located where the tail meets the body and channels through the back and front legs to the

CRYSTALS RECOMMENDED FOR CHAKRA IMBALANCES ROOT

Hematite and red jasper

SACRAL

Carnelian, coral, orange calcite, moonstone, topaz and amber

SOLAR PLEXUS

Citrine, tiger’s eye, amber, topaz and sunstone

HEART

Rose quartz, emerald, jade, green aventurine, pink tourmaline and rhodocrosite

THROAT

Blue lace agate, turquoise, lapi lazuli, aquamarine and sodalite

THIRD EYE

Sapphire, blue tourmaline, sodalite and clear quartz

CROWN

Amethyst, clear quartz, fluorite, moonstone and selenite

BRACHIAL

Black tourmaline and Herkimer diamonds

MINOR EAR BUD Blue lace agate, lepidolite, aquamarine and sugilite 64

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Treatments that help balancing the root chakra could include: • Using crystals such as hematite and red jasper in a mojo bag near their bedding. Do not allow pets that chew to have access to crystals.

• Grounding by allowing a pet’s paws to touch the earth. Get them off of the concrete and into the dirt.

Sacral Chakra

The sacral chakra is located on the spine in the general area of the stomach. A healthy sacral chakra is orange and governs sexuality and emotions.

Neutered pets tend to have a higher incidence of issues related to the sacral chakra. Physically it relates to the bladder, kidneys, lower back, adrenal glands, and the reproductive and lymphatic systems.

Emotional manifestation of nonalignment include being whiny, jealous and possessive.

Crystals that can help balance the sacral chakra include carnelian, coral, orange calcite, moonstone, topaz and amber.

Solar Plexus Chakra

The solar plexus chakra is located in the middle of the back along the spine.

A healthy solar plexus chakra is yellow and governs their personal power and sense of self. Physically, the chakra relates to the lower/middle area, stomach, liver, gall bladder, spleen and nervous system

Emotional manifestation of nonalignment may include being withdrawn, aggressive and domineering.

Citrine, tiger’s eye, amber, topaz

and sunstone may work to balance this chakra.

Heart Chakra

The heart chakra is located on the breast/front of chest/behind the forelegs and channels down the front legs to the paws. A healthy heart chakra is green and is also associated with the color pink. This chakra governs relationships and pack hierarchy. The heart, lungs, thymus gland, and the immune, circulatory and respiratory systems are physically related to this chakra.

Emotions such as being jealous, nervous, unwilling to interact with other people or animals, and experiencing grief over loss of a family member or pack are manifestations of non-alignment.

Crystals for treatment include rose quartz, emerald, jade, green aventurine, pink tourmaline and rhodocrosite.

Throat Chakra

The Throat chakra is located in the V of the throat and channels down to the all four paws. A healthy throat chakra is light blue in color and governs selfexpression. It physically relates to the throat, neck, jaws, ears and teeth.

Emotional manifestations of nonalignment include being withdrawn and excessive vocalizations.

Balancing the throat chakra could include crystals include blue lace agate, turquoise, lapi lazuli, aquamarine and sodalite.

Third Eye Chakra

The third eye chakra is located in the dip between the eyes. It is dark blue or light purple in color and governs in-

sights. This chakra physically relates to the eyes, pineal gland, neck and lower brain case.

Emotional manifestation of nonalignment includes:

Relying heavily on others, Difficulty navigating the world between humans and animals, and Playing non-stop when not a puppy.

Balancing the third eye chakra could include crystals include sapphire, blue tourmaline, sodalite and clear quartz.

Crown Chakra

The crown chakra is located on the top of the head and governs wisdom and understanding their place in the world. It is clear in color. Physically, it relates to the brain and the upper brain case.

Emotional manifestations of nonalignment are a pet seeming out of place and having trouble relating to other animals or people.

Amethyst, clear quartz, fluorite, moonstone and selenite are crystals that can help balance the heart chakra.

Brachial Chakra

It is located on either side of the rib cage and channels down the front and back legs to the paws. It is black and connects to each major chakra. This chakra is where the human-animal bond resides. The neck, chest, front legs, lungs and rib cage are the areas that physically relate to the brachial chakra.

With non-alignment, the pet may not want to be touched. Many shelter and abused animals are prone to brachial chakra issues.

Balancing this chakra could

include black tourmaline crystals and Herkimer diamonds.

Minor Ear Bud Chakras

These chakras are located just in front of the ears in that spot they love to be scratched. It is light blue in color and connected to the throat chakra. This chakra is attuned to the subtle vibrations in the air. A pet with an unbalanced ear bud will be unnerved by impending storms or prone to ear infections.

Blue lace agate, lepidolite, aquamarine and sugilite are examples of crystals that can help.

Minor Paw Bud Chakras

They located on each of the bottoms of an animal’s paws. They sense subtle vibrations in the earth and while primarily connected to the root chakras for grounding, they are also connected to the: • Throat chakra for communicating with the earth.

• Heart chakra (animals are natural healers).

• Brachial chakra.

A pet’s wellness is directly tied into the health of the chakras. Working in conjunction with a veterinarian professional of choice, along with the above suggestions, may improve the health of the energy centers, resulting in happier, healthier pets.

Mary Oquendo is a Reiki master, advanced crystal master and certified master pet tech pet first aid instructor. She is the co-owner of Hands and Paws-Reiki for All. She can be reached at HandsandPawsReiki.com.

䠀攀愀氀琀栀礀 倀攀琀 䘀漀漀搀 ☀ 匀甀瀀瀀氀椀攀猀 㘀㄀ 䌀栀甀爀挀栀 䠀椀氀氀 刀搀Ⰰ 一攀眀琀漀眀渀 ㈀ ㌀ⴀ㈀㜀 ⴀ倀䔀吀匀 ⠀㜀㌀㠀㜀⤀ 椀渀昀漀䀀礀漀甀爀栀攀愀氀琀栀礀瀀攀琀挀琀⸀挀漀洀

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naturalpet

Eat, Bark and Be Merry Healthy Holiday Treats for Our Pets

DIY Suet

by Sandra Murphy

A

s with families everywhere, special taste treats are on the menu for many dogs, cats and wild birds during the holiday season.

Owners are cautioned not to share rich, unfamiliar foods from the table that can be detrimental to an animal’s health.

Better fare are homemade treats of organic, safe and tasty ingredients—true gifts from the heart.

Homemade assures the quality of ingredients, avoids unhealthy additives and allows the giver to adjust for

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flower seeds with the smaller black oil version to attract the largest number of birds. Organically grown peanuts in the shell, dried fruit, oranges, pomegranates or rehydrated raisins offer a burst of energy. Impale round fruits, halved, on a small dowel rod attached to the feeding table to hold them in place.

Note that oats go to waste, shelled sunflower seeds spoil and cracked corn attracts raccoons. Pass on any kind of popcorn.

individual taste or food sensitivities.

Most healthy recipes can be made from readily available ingredients.

Wild Birds

Offer them a variety of seeds and fresh water. Always use unsalted, unseasoned seeds. Mix harder-to-crack striped sun-

natural awakenings

Mix one part organic peanut butter with five parts organic, non-GMO (genetically modified) corn meal.

Smear into a pinecone to hang from a branch or directly on tree bark for woodpeckers and wrens to enjoy. Don’t use low-fat peanut butter because birds need to pack in the calories in order to stay warm.

Cats

Organic catnip, fresh or dried and baked into a crunchy treat, will bring kitty running. In recipes, avoid canned tuna because of bisphenol A (BPA) concerns; also minimize the frequency

and portion of tuna and salmon treats due to mercury accumulation in the fish. Unseasoned tuna or salmon packed in water in a pouch is a better choice. Many recipes labeled for dogs can be converted for cats by making them into smaller bites.

Dogs

“When possible, I put organic and local foods, non-GMO, hormone-and antibiotic-free, grass-fed and humanely raised properties at the top of my list. A healthier dog means fewer vet visits and more years together,” says Tonya Wilhelm, a dog trainer in Toledo, Ohio. “Buy in bulk from a co-op or farmer and maybe share with friends to get the best price.”

Dehydrated Foods

Dehydrating removes moisture from food while retaining nutrients, and comprises a distinct cooking method.

Stephanie Raya, resident chef at Excalibur Dehydrator, in Sacramento, California, recommends, “For safe chicken and pork, pre-cook before dehydrating. Beef can be dehydrated from a raw state. My Boston terriers also love dehydrated, sweet potato chips.”

A number of commercial dehydrated meat and fish jerkies have been recalled (search DogFoodAdvisor. com/?s=treats). Homemade treats offer superior control of ingredients.

“When I make my pets’ treats, I know what’s in their food, including the herbs used for flavor,” says Raya. After she’s ensured that the food is thoroughly dried, she packs it in vacuum bags and stores them away from light. She notes that dehydrating takes longer than baking, but is cost-effective at 25 to 50 cents an hour. Veggie options include dehydrated zucchini chips, butternut squash chips, cherry tomato bites, matchstick carrots or peach or other fruit slices.

Make it Festive

A cat’s sense of smell is 10 to 15 times better than ours, but is still modest compared to dogs that out-sniff us by a factor of 30 to 60 times; that’s why putting wrapped treats under a holiday tree or in a stocking is a bad idea. Store them securely and then bring them out when it’s time to open gifts. Use blue tissue paper for easy-to-open Hanukkah gifts, red or green for Christmas (bows, yes; ribbons, no).

For dogs that love puzzles, placing treats inside a wrapped box adds to the fun.

Remember that rich or unfamiliar foods can make pets sick. Instead, gift them with their own healthy, safe treats from known ingredients so that everyone has a happy holiday.

Connect with Sandra Murphy at StLouis FreelanceWriter@ mindspring.com.

petresourceguide ADOPTION/RESCUE ANIMALS IN DISTRESS INC. 238 Danbury Rd, Wilton • 203-762-2006 Animals-In-Distress.com BRIDGEPORT ANIMAL CONTROL 236 Evergreen St, Bridgeport • 203-576-7727 BULLY BREED RESCUE PO Box 953, New Canaan BBRCT@yahoo.com • BullyBreedRescueInc.org COMMUNITY CATS PO Box 4380, Stamford CommunityCatsCT@yahoo.com • CommunityCatsCT.org DANBURY ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY (DAWS) 147 Grassy Plain St, Bethel • 203-744-3297 FRIENDS OF FELINES, INC. PO Box 8147, Stamford • 203-363-0220 Cats@AdoptAPet.org • AdoptAPet.org NFSAW 223 State Rt 37, New Fairfield •203-746-2925 • NFSAW.org PET ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY INC. (PAWS) 504 Main Ave, Norwalk • 203-750-9572 • PAWSCT.org PET PROTECTORS 2490 Black Rock Tpke, #453, Fairfield 203-330-0255 • PetProtectorsRescue.org RIDGEFIELD OPERATION FOR ANIMAL RESCUE (ROAR) 45 South St, Ridgefield • 203-438-0158 • ROAR-Ridgefield.org STRAYS AND OTHERS PO Box 473, New Canaan • 203-966-6556 StraysAndOthers@hotmail.com TAILS OF COURAGE 1 Pembroke Rd, Danbury • 877-63-TAILS • TailsOfCourage.org WESTPORT ANIMAL SHELTER ADVOCATES (WASA) 1 Tower Ridge, Westport • 203-557-0361 • WestportWASA.org

Final Journey,

LLC

( Pet Euthanasia Service )

Kristen Klie, D.V. M. and Associates

( 203 ) 645-5570 www.finaljourneyllc.com

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December 2015

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calendarofevents

markyourcalendar

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

December Workshop Schedule

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1 Flower Essences 101 – 7-8pm. With Ehris Urban.

Flower essences are not essential oils. They are extractions prepared from flowering plants, used therapeutically. Create your own personalized Flower Essence based on your challenges, needs and goals. $10. Woodbury. GroundedHolisticWellness @yahoo.com. GroundedHolisticWellness.com.

Mindfulness Seminar – 7-8pm. Mindfulness seminar with The Graduate Institute. Milford Library, 57 New Haven Ave, Milford. 203-874-4252.

Info@Learn.edu. Learn.edu/Events.

Lakota Ceremony – 7-9pm. With Scott Nelson and Maria DiFolco. Traditional ceremony to express gratitude and release through purification, cleansing, drumming, emotional balancing, chanting, celebration and to be in good spirits. By donation.

Lotus Wellness Center, 46 Pemberwick Rd, Greenwich. 203-531-4784. Info@LotusWellnessCtr.com.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2 An Evening at the Acquiescence Farmhouse – 7-9pm. Join us for a tour of the 1770 house, a presentation of The Not-So-Good Life of the Colonial Goodwife and refreshments - including homemade Apple Brandy Cordial, organic Women’s Tonic Tea and dessert. $10. Woodbury.

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

ColonialGoodwife.com.

Divorce Smart Seminars – 7-9pm. With Bill Donaldson, divorce/financial expert. A relaxed discussion for women about the information needed to make the best decisions for your future. Light refreshments provided. $25 donation.

Westport Women’s Club, 44 Imperial Ave, Westport. 203-221-2848. Bill@DonaldsonFwn.com.

DivorceSmartSeminars.com.

Resolving Colds and Flu – 7-9pm. Discover ways of dealing with colds and flu from a Chinese Medical Perspective. Essential Oil Blends that help at various stages, as well as the use of stones/minerals and dietary therapy that assist in resolving the condition. $40. Total Life Care Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-226-8897.

Patricia@PatSinger.com. PatSinger.com.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3 Shatavari Cocoa Cordial – 7-8pm. Shatavari, an obscure herb native to Asia, is considered the best female rejuvenative and counteracts the adverse effects of stress. Create your own 16-ounce creamy Shatavari Cocoa Cordial, with optional stress-relieving herbal additions. $20 includes materials. Woodbury. GroundedHolisticWellness@ yahoo.com. GroundedHolisticWellness.com.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4 Reiki Level 1 Workshop – 10am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki master (19 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. 2 manuals and certificate. $125. Angelic Healing Center for Reiki, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk.

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

AngelHealReiki.com.

Shamanic Drum Circle – 7:30-10:30pm. Join us to connect with energy, spirit and Mother Earth through sacred Shamanic drumming, rattling and Shamanic healing. All levels welcome, no experience necessary. $20. Hunter Healing Hands, 215 Harbor Ave, Bridgeport. 203-916-8381. HunterHealingHands@ hotmail.com. HunterHealingHands.com.

LifePath Yoga & Wellness

Friday, 12/4 • TLC Holistic Happy Hour Saturday, 12/5 • Aamna Qureshi Kundalini with Gong Meditation Sunday, 12/6 • Greg Barringer: Beyond the Asanas: Exploring the 8 Limbs of Yoga Saturday, 12/12 • Paul Epstein, ND: Happiness through Meditation Followed by: Exploring the Mind/Body Connection Sunday, 12/13 • Matan Cohen-Citron: Yoga Therapeutics for Low Back Pain/Sciatica Saturday, 12/19 • Donna Campanelli: Awakening the Heart

Register for all workshops at LifePathYoga.net.

For more information, call 203-354-7070 430 Main Ave, 2nd Fl, Norwalk

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

With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki master (19 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. 2 manuals and certificate. $125. Angelic Healing Center for Reiki, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150.

AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

Lotus Holiday Sale and Celebration – 10am-6pm.

Community gathering with artists, authors and mini sessions. Jewelry, pottery, photography, paintings, aromatherapy products, organic tinctures, calendars, crystals, feng shui adjustment items and more.

Complimentary refreshments. Free Admission.

Lotus Wellness Center, 46 Pemberwick Rd, Greenwich. 203-531-4784. Info@LotusWellnessCtr.com.

Conscious Craft Trunk Show – Noon-4pm. Join Embody the Sacred, Elysian Life Design, Hands And Paws Reiki For All and Elemental Mercury for a Holiday Trunk show offering spiritually minded gifts to enhance and heal body, mind and soul. Free.

Acupuncture Works, 132A State Rt 37, New Fairfield. 860-488-1149. LesangerWatkins@gmail.com.

ɲɧɴɩɾ ˪ɪ ɦɨɷɪɩ Deana Paqua, MA, LMT

Լ

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

ridgefield & new milford ct

www.embodythesacred.net

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natural awakenings

deana.paqua@gmail.com Ph. 203.994.5045

markyourcalendar Conscious Craft Trunk Show!

A holiday craft show where the gifts give back to the community!

Saturday, December 5 • noon-4pm Acupuncture Works 132 State Rte 37, New Fairfield Spiritually minded gifts to enhance and heal body, mind and soul. RAFFLES!! Win gift certificates valued at $60 for customized jewelry, healing, or products! All raffle proceeds and a percentage of craft sales to go six local charities.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9 Evening with Elohim of Light – 6:30-8pm.

Evening of meditation, channeling and messages.

Begin with channeled meditation to prepare for the influx of energy and light that will be received. Then experience contact and messages from the Elohim of Light, the Angels of Creation. $65. Saltana Cave, 590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield.

203-969-4327. SaltanaCave.com.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10 Rewiring the Brain: What is Neurofeedback? – 10-11:30am. With Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge.

Learn how a QEEG (brain mapping) works, what Neurofeedback therapy is like, and how it could benefit you or your child. Free. The Offices of Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-438-4848. DrRoseannInfo@ att.net. DrRoseann.com.

Psychic and Healing Fair – Noon-5pm. Gifted and caring intuitive readers. Receive a reading using a variety of modalities. All readings approx.

25 minutes. Also, Reiki healing sessions for people and animals. Walk-ins welcome. $45+/for readings, $30/healing. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich.

My10Cats@optonline.net. AlbertsonChurch.org.

Crystal Sales Event – 10am-6pm. Beginning 12/10. Open Tuesday-Saturday: 10am-6pm; Sunday: noon-5pm. 12/21: 10am-6pm. 12/24: 10am4pm. Our finest mineral dealer is bringing in a truckload of fabulous crystals just in time for the holidays. Free. Mother Earth Gallery, 449 Danbury Rd, New Milford. 203-775-6272. LeslieGera@ sbcglobal.net. MotherEarthCrystals.com.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6

Magic and Mysteries Teleseminars: Creating Healthier Connections – Noon-1pm. If you’ve ever been in a relationship you knew to be imbalanced this course will explore creating healthier connections. This can work to improve relationships with co-workers, bosses, friends, romantic partners, and even family. $40. Teleseminar.

203-459-2808. Miylana@aol.com. Miylana.com/ Online-Classes.html.

Soul Activation: Sound Healing and Journeying – 1-3pm. With David Young, Grammy-nominated artist. Join us for two musical meditations followed by group discussion and sharing. All are welcome. $30. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich.

AlbertsonChurch@gmail.com. AlbertsonChurch.org.

Introduction to Chakradance – 2-3:30pm. With Khristee Rich, Chakradance Facilitator. Healing dance meditation includes dance, meditation, and creating an art mandala. No dance experience necessary. Wear comfortable clothes. Bring yoga mat or cushion. $30. Just Dance, 19 Willard Rd, Norwalk. 203-733-8250. Khristee@ TheDancingCurtain.com. TheDancingCurtain.com.

Kirtan in the Cave – 7-8:30pm. Join Sita’s Light on a journey through the sacred mantra sounds of ancient India with call and response group chanting for a unique and unforgettable evening of sound and spirit. $65. Saltana Cave, 590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield. 203-969-4327. SaltanaCave.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8 The Graduate Institute Information Sessions – 6-7:30pm. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. 203-874-4252. Info@Learn.edu.

Learn.edu/Events.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 7 A Unique Yoga Nidra Experience – 7:30-9pm.

Experience relaxation, calm body and mind, re-set sleep patterns, and balance your chakras. Set an intention in the deepest part of your consciousness. Take a journey into unconditional and Divine Love. Pre-paid reservations are required. $35.

Deanne Mincer’s, 16 Fulling Mill Ln, Ridgefield.

DMinc100@aol.com. DeanneMincer.com.

Healing for the Heart – 7-9pm. Group healing/ meditation led by Svaha and Manjushri. The healing modality used is no touch and works thru the etheric body (aura and chakras) to effect mental, emotional, spiritual and physical well being. $80. Saltana Cave, 590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield.

203-969-4327. SaltanaCave.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12 Resolving Colds and Flu – 2-4pm. Discover ways of dealing with colds and flu from a Chinese Medical Perspective. Essential Oil Blends that help at various stages, as well as the use of stones/minerals and dietary therapy that assist in resolving the condition. $40. Total Life Care Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-226-8897. Patricia@PatSinger.com.

PatSinger.com.

Shamanic Healing Drum Circle at Terraloka – 3-5pm. With Jessica Hunter. Join us in sacred shamanic circle for an evening of connection to energy, spirit, Mother Earth. Drums and rattles provided. Pre-Registration: $20. Terraloka Massage & Wellness Studio, 5 Kent Green Blvd, Kent.

203-417-0790. TerralokaWellness@gmail.com.

Terraloka.com, HunterHealingHands.com.

markyourcalendar Brilliant Soul’s Reiki II Course 12/6, 12/13, 12/20 • 5-8pm

Take energy healing to the next level and learn distance/time healing, manifestation... while honing your intuitive abilities. I’ve been an intuitive energy healer for 15 years and this is my FAVORITE class to teach! Reiki I is a prerequisite.

$250.

Sticks & Stones Farm, 201 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown To register, call Carla Barzetti at 203-364-6262 • BrilliantSoul.com The Healing Power of Illness with Dr. Ruediger Dahlke – 7:30-9pm. $14.95 per ticket. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. 203-8744252. Info@Learn.edu. Learn.edu/Events.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13 Empowering Relationships I – 9:30am-5pm.

Learn about 8 core needs and how to beat codependence. Experience an amazing relationship healing meditation that can be practiced any time. Must pre-register. By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St (Rt 25), Monroe.

203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail.com.

MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

Honoring the Earth Mother: Italian Stregheria Shamanic Healing Ceremony – 1-3pm. Ceremony will incorporate teachings and healing connected to ancient Italian shamanic roots and the sacred feminine. Healing crystals incorporated and gifted to all. Registration required. $40. Hunter Healing Hands, 215 Harbor Ave, Bridgeport.

203-916-8381. HunterHealingHands@hotmail.com.

HunterHealingHands.com.

Introduction to Chakradance – 2-3:30pm.

With Khristee Rich, Chakradance Facilitator.

Healing dance meditation includes dance, meditation, and creating an art mandala. No dance experience necessary. Wear comfortable clothes. Bring yoga mat or cushion. $30. Just Dance, 19 Willard Rd, Norwalk. 203-7338250. Khristee@TheDancingCurtain.com.

TheDancingCurtain.com.

Restorative Yoga and Tibetan Singing Bowls Class – 4:30-6pm. With, Marie-Anne Gajdosik, yoga teacher and Judy Vuozzo, Tibetan Singing Bowls Musician. Destress and rejuvenate with this beautiful healing class. $25/pre-paid; $30/at door.

Naam Yoga CT, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203730-2400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com.

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Coming in January

Detoxification

MONDAY, DECEMBER 14

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19

Vibrations of Tibet Sound Immersion – 7-9pm.

With Carol Essig, channel, sound healer and vibrational conduit. Evening filled with healing sounds and words. Includes Tibetan singing bowls, the shrutti and channel Light language, elevating frequency levels in body and energy field. $40.

Deanne Mincer’s, 16 Fulling Mill Ln, Ridgefield.

DMinc100@aol.com. DeanneMincer.com.

Reiki Second Degree Workshop – 9:30am5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher (19 years). Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. 2 powerful energy connections from my short Japanese/ Usa Linage. Two manuals and certificate. $215.

Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk.

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

AngelHealReiki.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15 Healing With The Archangels - in the Cave – 6:30-8:30pm. Connect with the powerful Archangels in the beautiful, restful and healing Himalayan salt cave. The Archangels are powerful messengers, healers, guides and teachers who can help protect us, guide us, and support us. $80. Saltana Cave, 590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield. 203-969-4327.

SaltanaCave.com.

Understanding Shamanism: Discovering Ancient Practices for Modern Times – 7-8:30pm. Interested in Shamanism? Discover what Shamanism and Shamanic Healing is really about, how it works and the benefits. Learn how this ancient practice is incorporated in modern society. Q&A incorporated.

Free. Hunter Healing Hands, 215 Harbor Ave, Bridgeport. 203-916-8381. HunterHealingHands@ hotmail.com. HunterHealingHands.com.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16 January’s Natural Awakenings will focus on practitioners and businesses in Fairfield and southern Litchfield counties who want to help readers recover from holiday toxic overload and get back to healthier habits. We invite health coaches, nutritionists, and juice bars with cleanse programs to showcase your work. Use a profile in this issue to explain who you are and what you offer to the more than 60,000 monthly readers in Fairfield and lower Litchfield Counties!

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

Introduction to Chakradance: A Seated Dancing Meditation – 7-8:30pm. With Khristee Rich, Chakradance Facilitator. Healing dance meditation includes dance, meditation and creating an art mandala surrounded by healing Himalayan salt crystals. Release stress and improve health. Wear white socks, comfortable clothes. Saltana Cave, 590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield. 203-733-8250. Khristee@ TheDancingCurtain.com. TheDancingCurtain.com.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17 Connect with the Divine – Noon-2pm. 6-week seminar. Explore readings from Sri Sakthi Ammas Connect with the Divine series of discourses. Turn the knowledge of these teachings into wisdom using the Shanti Mission tools and principals and Gurus blessings and guidance. Must preregister. By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St (Rt 25), Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@ gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18 Reiki Second Degree Workshop – 10am-5:30pm.

With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher (19 years).

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

Two manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150.

AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

Experiential Group Healing – 7-9pm. With Gene Krackehl, Energy Healer. Group Healing guiding you through a cleansing journey of your Chakra System, encouraging you to let go of your past fears, anxieties and heartbreak. $85. Saltana Cave, 590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield. 203-969-4327.

SaltanaCave.com.

203-885-4674 70

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20 Introduction to Chakradance – 2-3:30pm.

With Khristee Rich, Chakradance Facilitator. Healing dance meditation includes dance, meditation, and creating an art mandala. No dance experience necessary. Wear comfortable clothes. Bring yoga mat or cushion. $30. Just Dance, 19 Willard Rd, Norwalk. 203-7338250. Khristee@TheDancingCurtain.com.

TheDancingCurtain.com.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21 Winter Solstice Shamanic Healing Drum Circle – 7:30-9:30pm. Sacred circle for Winter Solstice for shamanic healing with the medicine of the drums.

Enhance connection to energy, spirit and Mother Earth for guidance and healing through Native American methods. Drums and rattles provided. $20 at the door. Hunter Healing Hands, 215 Harbor Ave, Bridgeport. 203-916-8381. HunterHealingHands@ hotmail.com. HunterHealingHands.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 22 Introduction to Chakradance: A Winter Solstice Celebration – Time. Healing dance meditation includes shamanic dance, meditation, and creating an art mandala in a candlelit room. Release stress.

No dance experience necessary. Adults of all ages.

Wear comfortable clothes. Redding Meditation Center, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, Meditation Building, Redding. 203-733-8250. Khristee@TheDancingCurtain.com. TheDancingCurtain.com.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24 Crystal Sales Event – 10am-6pm. Beginning 12/10. Open Tuesday-Saturday: 10am-6pm; Sunday: noon-5pm. 12/21: 10am-6pm. 12/24: 10am4pm. Our finest mineral dealer is bringing in a truckload of fabulous crystals just in time for the holidays. Free. Mother Earth Gallery, 449 Danbury Rd, New Milford. 203-775-6272. LeslieGera@ sbcglobal.net. MotherEarthCrystals.com.

Candlelight Christmas Eve Service – 6-7:15pm.

Join us for a special Candlelight Christmas Eve Service. Love Offering. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203855-7922. Office@UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 2 Empowering Relationships II – 9:30am-5pm. It is easy in the honeymoon stage, but how do you keep the energy high and stay committed, retaining the zing and the intimacy? Learn simple ways to handle conflict, be more assertive and experience greater love. Must pre-register. By donation.

Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St (Rt 25), Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail. com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

ongoingcalendar sunday Angelic Reiki Meditation with Essential Oils – 8-9am. Receive short, hands-on Angelic Reiki, experience powerful techniques to reduce stress and relax. $10. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave (in the back, downstairs), Norwalk. Pre-register: 203-852-1150.

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

NewBeginningsInCommunity.Weebly.com.

Family Program (Kids and Teens) – 10-11:30am.

First and third Sunday. Introducing kids to meditation, metta, yoga, art practice, a discussion of mindfulness in everyday life, generosity, compassion, letting go of negative mind states and other basic Parents can meditate in the main building.

Contact Matt Keeler at MmKeeler@gmail.com.

ReddingMeditation.org.

Mahasati Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am.

Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faiths develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way.

203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

Celebration Service – 10:30am-noon. With Rev. Shawn Moninger Inspiring message supports your spiritual unfoldment with thought provoking, soul healing topics and uplifting music. By donation.

Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@UnityCenterNorwalk. org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

Albertson Church Service – 11am-12:30pm. Includes an inspirational talk from caring ministers, guided meditation, time to receive healing energy and spirit messages from those we continue to love.

Free. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-637-4615.

monday Core Yoga – 9:30-10:30am. Strengthen your core and deepen your practice. Emphasis on proper alignment. Class moves slowly through basic postures in challenging ways. For beginners or experienced yogis looking to build strength and reduce stress. $17/drop-in, $150/10-class card. The Graceful Planet, 7 Berkshire Rd, Sandy Hook. 203-426-8215.

Kat@GracefulPlanet.com. GracefulPlanet.com.

Monday Morning Meditation – 11:30am-12:30pm.

With Beth Leas. Practical approach supports you as you develop a solid life skill. Whether you’ve never meditated or you’re a sage meditator - this class is for you. Explore different meditation techniques each week. $30. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk.

203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.

Mahasati Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faiths develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way.

203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

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

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

tuesday TLC Monthly Networking Breakfast – 8:3010am. First Tuesday. Looking for a community of healthy living professionals? Relaxed supportive group of professionals. Grab a friend, your biz cards and join us for a fun morning of connecting. Free.

TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566.

Beth@BethLeas.com. TLCCenter.com.

Yoga Therapeutics – 9-10:15am. With Dr. Kathy Sward. Designed for those with chronic pain, health conditions, prevention and other health concerns.

Traditional poses are expertly modified to allow the mind to calm, joints to align and muscles lengthen and strengthen. $15. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding.

203-207-1613. Dr.KathySward@gmail.com.

DrKathySward.com.

Toastmasters – Noon. Interested in public speaking?

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

Hannigan@charter.com. ToastMastersClubs.org.

Mahasati Insight Meditation – 12:30-2pm.

Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faiths develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

Meditating Holistically – 6:30-8pm. With Urgyan, a Western Buddhist lama sharing a rich practice of traditional meditation guidance directed toward holistic integration. Group meditation and discussion, devoted to our mutual innermost truths. $15.

Location: ah Yoga, 168 New Milford Tpke (Rt 202), New Preston. 860-868-6707 or Danbury Area Vajrayana Buddhist Meditation on Meetup.com.

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

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

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

Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk.

Pre-register: 203-852-1150.

wednesday Core Yoga – 9:30-10:30am. Designed to strengthen your core and deepen your practice. Emphasis on proper alignment. Class moves slowly through basic postures in challenging ways. For beginners or experienced yogis looking to build strength and reduce stress. $17/drop-in, $150/10-class card. The Graceful Planet, 7 Berkshire Rd, Sandy Hook. 203-426-8215.

Kat@GracefulPlanet.com. GracefulPlanet.com.

Understanding Brain Wave Training – 10:3011:30am. First & third Wednesday. Discuss how conditions such as ADD, anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain and others have unique, abnormal brainwave patterns that can be improved using BrainCore Neurofeedback Therapy. Free. Halo Studios - Club Room, 45 Grove St, upstairs in tennis center, New Canaan. 203-316-8212. Info@NorwalkBrainCore. com. NorwalkBrainCore.com.

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

By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St (Rt 25), Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@ gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

Mahasati Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faith s develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way.

203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

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

Second Wednesday. Meetings feature inspirational speakers who aim to introduce the audience to happiness boosters and simple techniques which can lead to emotional and physical well-being, happiness and an overall sense of positivity.

Free. Innovation Center of Stamford, Old Town Hall, 175 Atlantic St, Stamford. 203-962-1062.

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

Journey Group – 7-9pm. First Wednesday. With Cindy Miller, intuitive. If you are looking to get unstuck, learn more about self empowerment, becoming a healing facilitator, than this is the group for you. $20. Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West St, Newtown. Call: 203-426-9448. SacredGrounds.bz.

TrinityProduction.org.

Using Smart Body (Kinesiology) for Everyday – 7-9pm. Learn how to sense the energy of foods, supplements, books, places and more. Sense what you cannot see and therefore make better choices.

Learn how to change energy. Presentation and discussion. $20. Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West St, Newtown. 203-377-6162. Bruce.Zboray@ yahoo.com. TrinityProduction.org.

Holistic Moms Network Fairfield County, CT Chapter – 7:30pm. Second Wednesday. Associates in Family Chiropractic & Natural Health Care, 156 East Ave, Norwalk. Home.Homewebs.com/ HMNFairfieldCtyCT.

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Gentle Yoga for Real Bodies – 7:30-8:45pm. With Gloria Owens, Kripalu yoga teacher. Everyone can benefit from a gentle, slow and conscious approach to yoga. Fun and relaxing class will build confidence and compassionate self-acceptance, while leaving you deeply nurtured. $19/drop-in or buy a discounted pass. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@YogaSpace-CT. com. YogaSpace-CT.com.

Turning Point S.H.A.R.E. Divorce Group – 7:30-9:30pm. Third Wednesdays. Offering support, healing, advocacy, resources and education for women in the process of, or recently divorced. $20, $150/10-session card. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center, 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointShare.com.

thursday Tea and Meditation – 9:30-11am. Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faiths develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way. By donation.

Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. Info@ ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org.

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

CHADD/ADHD Parent Support Group – 7-8:30pm. 3rd and 4th Thursdays. Monthly discussion on parenting child(ren) with an ADD/ADHD diagnosis. Form connections with other parents and gain skills and education to support your child(ren).

Free. The Offices of Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-438-4848.

DrRoseannInfo@att.net. DrRoseann.com.

EFT Tapping Circle Meetup – 7-8:30pm. Second and fourth Thursdays. Come learn about your energy body. Every month will be a different topic or exercise.

No experience needed, all are welcome. $15.

Location given with RSVP. 203-247-1318.Robin@ RobinFriedman.net. EnergyToolsForDailyLiving.com.

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

Reiki Healing Circle – 7-9pm. Second Thursday. All welcome. Non-Reiki & Reiki practitioners share and experience Reiki. See details on Unity website. Hosted by Gigi Benanti Reiki master/teacher. $20. Unity Center for Practical Spirituality, 3 Main St, Norwalk.

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

AngelHealReiki.com, UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

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

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

Free Mommy & Me Yoga – 10am. With Brooke de Weaver. We supply water and mats - just bring yourself and your kids. Free. Yogasmoga Townhouse, 68 Greenwich Ave, Greenwich.

Student Massage Clinic – 11am-1pm. Relax and enjoy a full-body massage at the Danbury Campus public Student Massage Therapy Clinic. Wednesday evenings or Friday mornings available. $30/50 minutes. RidleyLowell Business & Technical Institute, 24 Shelter Rock Rd, Danbury. Call for appt: 203-748-0052.

Teen Meditation – 5-6pm. This is an enjoyable approach to the understanding of self and how you fit into the world in which you can grow with confidence. Come and explore a guided meditative journey that helps to melt away stress and anxiety.

For teens and up. $15. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plains St, Bethel. 203-570-3868.

Discussion with Spirit – 7:30pm. Last Friday.

Bring questions, receive channeled information to help understand who you are, why you’ve come to the earth plane and empower yourself with messages from Spirit and loved ones. $35. Private residence, Monroe. Information/RSVP: 203-268-3262.

Circle of Life – 7:30-9:30pm. Third Friday. Explore topics such as love, trust, permission and forgiveness as tools in navigating through life’s opportunities, losses and changes. Learn how to bring love, life and happiness. Notetaking welcome and encouraged. $40. Bridgeport location given with registration: 203-268-3262. TrinityProduction.org.

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

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

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

ChrisGuerrera@me.com. InsightsWellnessCenter.com.

Yoga & Pilates – 8:30-10am. Fun class combining yoga and pilates. In this class we play with all the toys - using bands, blocks, balls and light weights for a complete workout. Lengthen and tone and end with a restorative relaxation. $17/ drop-in, $150/10-Class card. The Graceful Planet, 7 Berkshire Rd, Sandy Hook. 203-426-8215. KatGracefulPlanet.com. GracefulPlanet.com.

Mahasati Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am.

Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faiths develop the self-awareness and

natural awakenings

inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way.

203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

Auricular (Ear) Acupuncture Clinic – 10:30am1pm. Second Saturday. Experience immediate and powerful effects with acupuncture auricular (ear) points designed to alleviate tension, relax mind, body. Once needles are inserted, sit, relax, breath, meditate. $40. Total Life Care Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-226-8897. Patricia@PatSinger.com.

PatSinger.com.

Spondylitis Support Group – 11am-12:30pm.

Last Saturday. Led by Dr. Andrew Cummins, naturopathic physician. Having lived with the chronic inflammatory disease Ankylosing Spondylitis for the last 18 years, Dr. Cummins understands what living with chronic pain and limited mobility is all about. Group provides education, empowerment, understanding and support. Free. Shalva Clinic, 8 Lincoln St, 1st Fl, Westport. 203-916-4600.

DrCummins@ShalvaClinic.org. ShalvaClinic.org.

Buddhist Teachings & Practice Discussion Group – 11:45am-1:30pm. Second and fourth Saturday. Join a relaxed group, in a tranquil environment, and explore some of the core principles of Buddhist practice. By donation. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 914-763-4639. Jexel@att.net.

ReddingMeditation.org.

Restorative Yoga – 3-5pm. First Saturday. Use props to support your body so you can rest, stretch, lower your heart rate and blood pressure; calm your nervous system and experience deep peace. 28/preregistered; $35/at the door if space is available. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642.

Info@YogaSpace-CT.com. YogaSpace-CT.com.

Open Mic Night – 7-9pm. 3rd Saturday. Bring music printed out in your key and Kenneth Gartman will accompany you at the piano for your moment at the microphone. Comedians, poets, writers and musicians welcomed as well. $10. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@ UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

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

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

HELP WANTED DISTRIBUTORS WANTED for monthly deliveries of Natural Awakenings and other local publications. Perfect for a retired person or stay-at-home mom looking to earn some extra income and connect with their local community. Honesty and dependability are the most important characteristics of our distributors if you don’t have it in spades, please do not apply!

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ACUPUNCTURE ACUPUNCTURE BY JIM FITZPATRICK 3 Hollyhock Lane, Wilton & Community Health Associates of Newtown, 153 South Main St, Newtown 203-257-4377 JimFitz@AcuJimFitz.com • AcuJimFitz.com

I bring years of experience and study to my patients to create a relation-ship that emphasizes clear comm-unication, responsiveness to a patient’s needs and expectations, and effective care with the totality that TCM has to offer: Acupuncture, Herbs, Adjunctive Therapies.

INGRI BOE-WIEGAARD, LAc

Fairfield, Wilton, Bethel 203-259-1660 • CTAcupuncture.com 25-year full-time practice Ingri treatments help alleviate Pain, Depression, Neck & Back, Anxiety, Headaches, Stress, Allergies, Asthma, Arthritis, Digestive, Menstrual, Infertility and Smoking & Weight Loss Issues. See ad, page 41.

JODY EISEMANN, LAc

Offices in Norwalk, Southport and Trumbull 203-216-2548 • AcupunctureHealingCT.com High-quality acupuncture at the most affordable prices in Fairfield County. 20+ years experience, specializing in treating all kinds of pain and general health issues.

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As a Spiritual Alchemist, I use a customized one-on-one approach to connect on many levels to assist in the healing process. Modalities: acupuncture, shiatsu, aromatherapy, dietary therapy, sound and energy healing, ceremony and spiritual counseling. See ad, page 17.

COLONICS COLONICS

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BREAST THERMOGRAPHY ALBA THERMAL IMAGING LLC

Safe, painless early detection 71 East Ave, Ste D, Norwalk 203-856-1421 • AlbaThermalImaging.com Thermography can detect breast disease at its earliest stages and monitor and assess pain in any part of the body. Safe, painless, noninvasive, FDA registered.

XTORAYS.COM

Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging Suzanne Pyle, MS, CCT 866-XtoRAYS • SuzannePyle@prodigy.net Get peace of mind with safe (no radiation), FDA-approved breast cancer screening. 8 years earlier detection vs. mammography.

Certified DITI thermographer.

Conveniently located throughout Fairfield.

CHIROPRACTIC PETER BRAGLIA, DC

True Health Family Chiropractic 7365 Main St, Stratford 203-923-8633 • TrueHealthCT.com As a member of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association, Dr. Braglia has received advanced training in Pediatric Adjusting and Prenatal Care, including the Webster Technique. We are proud to serve patients from all over Fairfield and New Haven County with our unique and gentle approach to health care. See ad, page 15.

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC

501 Kings Highway East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com Ready to start feeling healthier? Take your first step with this gentle cleansing procedure. Watch our colonic and detoxification videos on our new video website located at WholeBodyMed.com. Call for Free CD on detoxification. See ad, page 2.

CRYSTALS MOTHER EARTH GALLERY 449 Danbury Rd, New Milford 203-775-6272 MotherEarthCrystals.com

The area’s finest crystal shop for natural, polished & tumbled gemstones for healing or collecting.

Handcrafted gemstone jewelry, candles, chimes, books as well as a showcase for local artisans. See ad, page 27.

EDUCATION HOUSATONIC VALLEY WALDORF SCHOOL

40 Dodgingtown Rd, Newtown 203-364-1113 • WaldorfCT.org We develop each child’s unique capacity to engage meaningfully in the world by integrating experiential and artistic learning, academic excellence, respect for diversity and reverence for nature. See ad, page 41.

RISA SLOVES, DC

Associates in Family Chiropractic & Natural Health Care 156 East Ave, Norwalk 203-838-1555 • CTChiropractic.com Dr. Risa Sloves is 1 of 12 Chiropractic Physicians in Connecticut with Board Certification in Maternity and Pediatric Care including Webster and Bagnell Tu r n i n g Te c h n i q u e s . A l s o provided: acupuncture, BioSET Allergy Elimination Technique and the DRX9000 Spinal Decompression. See ad, page 7.

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

A nature-based education on six acres of trails, streams, and meadows, with an organic garden and natural playscapes. Our curriculum builds physical and emotional resilience, moral awareness and the foundation required for intellectual growth. See ad, page 33.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2015

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HEALTH COACH

EXPRESSIVE ARTS

MARY GILBERTSON MS, BSN,CHHC

SOUL COLLAGE

Licensed RN, Nutritionist & Certified Health Coach 500 Monroe Tpke, Monroe • 203-521-4733 Where Creativity Combining Meditation and GilbertsonMary@yahoo.com and Meditation meet Creativity leads to clarity in Prescription4Wellness.com Introduction to SoulCollage®

Zelie Pforzheimer PforzSoulCollage.com • PforzSoul@gmail.com

life’s daily issues in a fun and Monday, October 5, 10:30 am-1:00 pm Tuesday, October 6, 1:00-3:00 pm fulfilling way while Wednesday, October 21, 7:30-9:30 pm reprograming your brain for success.

Zelie Pforzheimer SoulCollage uses images found To register, visit: www.pforzsoulcollage.com in magazines and books to create small collaged cards to be used as tools for selfinquiry. See ad, page 9.

Classes held in Wilton CT. $35/class.

All supplies are provided, but bringing a personal journal is suggested.

Certified SoulCollage® Facilitator

SoulCollage® created by Seena Frost and described in her book: SoulCollage: An Intuitive Process for Individuals and Groups.

FLOATATION THERAPY

Working 1:1 in groups and corporations to develop customized healthy lifestyle plans. You receive tools to optimize your health through nutrition, disease management, exercise, weight loss & stress reduction. 28 years of experience supporting teens & adults in healthy lifestyle.

Available for speaking engagements and health events.

HOLISTIC DENTIST

iFLOAT

163 Main St, Westport 203-226-7378 • iFloatSpa.net

MARK A. BREINER, DDS, FIAOMT

Experience this superior form 501 Kings Highway East, Ste 108, Fairfield of body/mind relaxation as 203-371-0300 • WholeBodyDentistry.com you float effortlessly in warm Dr. Mark A. Breiner is a pioneer water with high concentand recognized authority in the rations of Epsom salt. Relieve stress, chronic pain field of holistic dentistry. With over and more. See ad, page 17.

30 years of experience, he is a sought after speaker and lecturer.

His popular consumer book, Whole-Body Dentistry, has been sold world-wide. See ad, page 2.

PUREST FLOAT CENTER

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

Float for stress and pain relief, relaxation and mental calmness.

HOME CARE/PERSONAL At PuREST we provide a relaxing ASSISTANCE environment from pre-float to post float. After your float, stay for complimentary tea and come YVONNE KINCAID back to earth in our oversize, 678-704-7640 PrivateDutyCare71@gmail.com inviting post float area. See ad back cover.

HEADACHE / PAIN RELIEF CONNECTICUT HEADACHE & MIGRAINE RELIEF CENTER/ TOM ANZALONE, DDS

235 Glenville Rd, Ste 2B, Greenwich 203-531-5688 • CTHeadacheRelief.com Connecticut Headache and Migraine Relief Center’s (CHMRC) approach to head-ache pain relief actually addresses and treats the sources of the problem. Using techniques that have been proven effective in sports medicine, the CHMRC system targets improper muscle forces in the head, neck, and jaw area that cause painful conditions. See ad, page 11.

Yvonne provides highly professional, non-medical personal assistance with a focus on mental health and nutrition. Experienced with intellectual clientele incl. adults and elderly recovering from stroke, surgery or traumatic event/ illness such as depression or Alzheimers. Emergency and disaster certified. Relocation and/or travel OK. Live-in considered; only available for 12 or 24 hour shifts. Excellent references.

HYPNOSIS MIND-BODY TRANSFORMATION HYPNOSIS Diane Bahr-Groth, CHy, TFTdx 1177 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-595-0110 • MindBodyTransformation.com

Fast, effective methods for weight, stress, fear, pain, smoking, etc.

Certified Hypnotherapist, Thought Field Therapy, Time Line Therapy, NLP and Complementary Medical Hypnosis, since 1989. See ad, pages 8 & 13.

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INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PHYSICIAN HENRY C. SOBO, M.D.

Optimal Health Medical, LLC 111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-348-8805 • DrSobo.com Dr. Sobo provides Natural Horm-one therapy, Weight Reduction programs, IV Vitamin/Minerals treatments, Allergy evaluation and treatment, Fibromyalgia care, and treatment for a wide variety of problems utilizing an Integrative Medicine approach.

STAMFORD INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE Michael E. Doyle, M.D. Conventional & Alternative Medicine 22 5th St, Ste 201, Stamford 203-324-4747 StamfordIntegrativeMedicine.com

Specializing in Natural and Alternative approaches to restoring health. Focusing on underlying causes of illness. Hypothyroidism, hormonal imbalances, nutrition and much more. See ad, page 37.

SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER Ken Hoffman, DAc, (RI), LAc, CCH, M.D. Bruce Roff, LAc, LMT, Senior Associate Craig Pannone, ND 31 Old Rt 7, Brookfield 203-740-9300 • INM.center

Using naturopathic and Chinese medical principles, we get to the source of your health concerns. Diagnostic methods include functional testing such as advanced bloodwork analysis, cardiovascular testing, hormone evaluation and thermography. Our customized treatment program includes acupuncture, herbal and nutritional medicine, diet and lifestyle counseling and more. Most insurance accepted. See ad, page 3.

INTEGRATIVE OPTOMETRY EYECARE ASSOCIATES, PC

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

See ad, page 9.

INTUITIVE CONSULTANT

RIDLEY-LOWELL BUSINESS & TECHNICAL INSTITUTE

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN

44 Shelter Rock Rd, Danbury 203-797-0551 • Ridley.edu

KIMBERLY TAYLOR

Crystal Visions, Inc. 1 Rt 37 East, Ste 2, Sherman 860-210-9897 • CrystalVisionsCT.com Kimberly is a psychic medium and intuitive. Readings consist of childhood experiences, present personal and professional relationship paths and future outcomes of major life decisions.

Kimberly can also be a conduit for lost loved ones. See ad, page 23.

MASSAGE & BODYWORK LAURA CARLSON, LMT

Redding/Monroe/Easton 203-885-7353 (SELF) Facebook.com/LauraCarlsonMassageLLC You deserve to be nurtured and time to be still, to breathe and to restore balance. Relaxing and nourishing massage will encourage positive changes in your mind and body. Individual sessions and massage parties available.

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

Robin has been providing massage and Reiki for over 15 years. Specializing in Swedish, Pregnancy, Trigger Point, Injuries and Infant/Child Massage Instruction. Sessions are individualized to meet your needs. See ad, page 14.

MASSAGE SCHOOL FINGER LAKES SCHOOL OF MASSAGE

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

NATURAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER Lisa Singley, ND, MS

Accredited institution offering skilled training in the 2103 Main St, Ste 2, Stratford following fields: Massage Therapy, Medical Assisting, 203-874-4333 Medical Admin Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, Info@NHAWC.com • NHAWC.com Information Technology and Electrical Systems We use advanced diagnostic testing Technician;day/evening classes, Financial Aid (if with safe, effective, all-natural eligible), free placement assistance. See ad, page 29. healing modalities and treatment options to treat acute and chronic conditions, restore balance and MEDITATION treat the mind, body and spirit.

Specialists in endocrine disorders, REDDING CENTER FOR MEDITATION digestive issues, pain management and chronic 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding fatigue. We offer comprehensive solutions to prevent 203-244-3130 illness and maintain optimal health for body, mind ReddingMeditation.org and spirit.

We teach and practice Mahasati meditation. Mahasati meditation cultivates self-awareness through attention to the movement of the body and, at more advanced levels, to the movement of the mind. No prior meditating experience is necessary. Ongoing weekly meditation classes, retreats and events.

Please check monthly event calendar or visit ReddingMeditation.org for updated information.

MOBILE FITNESS & WELLNESS

MARVIN P. SCHWEITZER, ND

Wellness Institute 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203-847-2788 • DrMarvinSchweitzer.com Family Health Care using all natural therapies for 25 years. Acupuncture, Bio-Identical Hormones, Homeopathy, Chinese/Western Herbs, Allergy/Toxin Testing, Oxygen T h e r a p y, M e r i d i a n S t r e s s Assessment, Nutrition/Enzyme Therapies. See ad, page 31.

SHALVA CLINIC, LLC

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

BRAMASOLÉ FITNESS AND WELLNESS CENTER

Elizabeth D. Aleksinas 57 Slab Meadow Rd, Morris 860-567-0219 • BramasoleWellness.com Bramasolé is a unique mobile fitness and wellness unit. Can’t get to the gym or yoga studio? I come to you!

Services include yoga, meditation training, Reiki, massage, Tai Chi and personal fitness. Studio hours also available. See ad, page 7.

NATURAL FOOD MARKET THE COMMON BOND MARKET

Dr. Lewis offers comprehensive holistic care for women including well-women exams, fertility, thyroid and menopause support.

She also has a special interest in pediatrics and utilizes a variety of natural modalities when working with patients with ADD/ADHD, autism, allergies, eczema and asthma. Treatments include herbal medicine, functional medicine, biotherapeutic drainage, homeopathy and more. See ad, page 14.

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

40 Huntington St, Shelton TheCommonBondMarket.com 203-513-8200

The Common Bond Market is a natural food market that provides The Valley with more healthful alternatives than the usual grocery fare. You’ll also find hot food, supplements, and much more. Find us on Facebook! See ad, page 54.

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

Insurance accepted.

NA Fun Fact: Natural Awakenings’ free app has been downloaded by more than 40,000 iPhone users and is now available on the Android platform.

To advertise with us, call 203-885-4674. eNaturalAwakenings.com

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NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC

Adam Breiner, ND, Director Elena Sokolova, M.D., ND David Brady, ND, CCN, DACBN 501 Kings Highway East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com Using state-of-the-art science combined with centuries-old healing modalities, our caring naturopathic doctors correct underlying imbalances and address issues which may interfere with the body’s ability to heal itself.

Treatment protocols or therapies include: Abdominal Manual Therapy, Acupuncture, Allergy Desensitization, Chinese Medicine, Colonics and other Detoxification Protocols, Electro-Dermal Screening, Energy Medicine, FDA-cleared Phototherapy, Functional Medicine, Herbal Medicine, Homeopathy, Hormonal Balancing, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Metabolic Typing, Nutritional Assessment, Real-Time EEG Neurofeedback and other therapies. See ad, page 2.

PHYSICAL THERAPY PHYSICAL THERAPY OF SOUTHERN CT

Linda Maude, PT 917 Bridgeport Ave, Shelton 203-926-6997 • PhysicalTherapySoCT.com Specializing in evaluation & treatment of musculoskeletal imbalance & injuries. Results achieved that traditional physical therapy may not. Therapeutic approaches such as manual therapy, cranialsacral, visceral manipulation and vestibular rehab. State of the art facility for strengthening & overall rehabilitation.

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

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

CHRISTINE GUERRERA, LMFT

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

HARMONY OF THE MIND, BODY, & SOUL LLC

Anasta Kydes MA, NCC, LPC, ACSM, CPT (Licensed Psychotherapist and Certified Personal Trainer) 91 East Ave, Norwalk 203-318-4514 • AnastaKydes@yahoo.com A client centered approach is taken in a supportive, non-judgmental, empathetic, and compassionate environment. I teach coping skills to help manage life’s challenges and incorporate exercise and meditation upon your request to help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress. See ad, page 23.

YUDIT MAROS, LMFT, CHt

100 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-244-5898 • Center4AuthenticLiving.com Author of Apple of My I: The Four Practices of Self-Love. There is hope! Even life-long unhappiness can be helped. State-of-the art psychotherapy for individuals of all ages, couples and families.

Trauma resolution, Relationship Clinics, six-week Authenticity Clinics for inner connection.

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ROBIN ORDAN, LCSW

Family, Child, Individual & Couples Therapy Old Greenwich/Stamford 203-561-8535 • RobinOrdanLCSW.com Robin has more than 18 years of experience working with families and children. Specializing in Divorce, Parent/ Child Conflict, Grief, Attachment/Bonding, Child Development and Parenting. See ad, page 13.

DENI WEBER, MA, LPC, D-CEP

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

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

Gigi is an experienced Reiki Master/Teacher. She offers all levels of Reiki training monthly.

All classes and Reiki sessions include the latest techniques including Karuna, Angelic and Jikiden Reiki.

RIVER’S EDGE REIKI

Lori Haggerty • Usui Reiki Master Bethel • 203-994-8978 RiversEdgeReiki.com Feeling the negative effects of a high stress life? Illness, unhappiness, exhaustion? Experience the power of Reiki and how it can restore you physically, emotionally and spiritually. Sessions for adults, children and senior citizens (geriatrics is my specialty!). Reiki training classes offered for all levels. See ad, page 38.

TURNING POINT HEALING ARTS AND EDUCATION CENTER JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT – Turning Point Reiki, LLC 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield 203-438-3050 TurningPointReiki.com TurningPointShare.com

WELLNESS CENTER

TRANSFORMATIVE HEALING

7EFIT SPA

1092 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-356-5822 7eFitSpaCT1@gmail.com 7eFitSpa.com

BETH LEAS

Transformative Healing • Tarot Offices in Norwalk & Ridgefield JoAnn uses intuition, experience 203-856-9566 and a deep spiritual connection in BethLeas.com • TLCTarot.com her Reiki, IET and Reconnective Healing sessions. Specializing in care for individuals with Cancer, Lyme disease and Back Pain. All Reiki levels taught.

SHAMANIC PRACTITIONER HUNTER HEALING HANDS

Jessica C. Hunter 203-916-8381 HunterHealingHands@hotmail.com HunterHealingHands.com Healing sessions in shamanic healing, Melody crystal healing, reiki, shamanic intuitive readings. Accredited and certification training programs in reiki, crystal healing, and shamanic healing. See ad, page 40.

STRESS REDUCTION CAROL SHEAR, BNRN, CERTIFIED COACH

Rise Up Coaching, LLC Fairfield/Danbury/Trumbull 203-452-9614 • RiseUpCoaching.com

SHEILA WALL, MSW, PROFESSIONAL CERTIFIED COACH In Synchrony LLC Danbury/Norwalk/Fairfield 203-216-6243 • InSynchronyLLC.com

Specializing in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction 8-week program pioneered by Jon Kabat-Zinn. We completed the MBSR Practicum and Mind-Body Medicine training at UMASS Medical School’s Center for Mindfulness. With decades of experience in mental health, health care, coaching and business, we offer comprehensive and expert guidance in mindfulness training to address a variety of stressful situations. See ad, page 9.

7eFit Spa offers a variety of aesthetic services and non-invasive If not now, when? Inspire change techniques to support mind body on all levels - greater physical wellness. Services include ease, emotional freedom, peace of anti-aging and oxygen facials with mind and spiritual connection. 20 aromatherapy, Torc Plus bioelectric years intuitive healing experience stimulation for muscle activation with adults and children of all and weight loss, infrared sauna, and the DietMasages. Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tarot. ter weight loss program. See ad, page 43.

See ad, page 16.

Fit Spa

™

A new way to lookin and feeling good ESSENCE HOLISTIC CENTER

BRILLIANT SOUL

Kimberly Joyner 246 Federal Rd, Ste C 23B, Brookfield 203-733-0595 EssenceHolisticCenter@yahoo.com

Carla Barzetti Newtown 203-364-6262 BrilliantSoul.com

Relax while our technology

Mind, body and spirit are the focus Your brilliant soul heals you of all of our treatments. We believe physically/mentally / in individual treatment options emotionally/spiritually through based on a client’s personal needs. my CranioSacral Therapy/ No surgery or invasive procedures.

We offer many forms of holistic SomatoEmotional Release, Ki/ from massage to Reiki to Infrared Sauna •care Micro-dermabrasion Pranic/Reiki Energy, channeling, cleansing as well as Thai stretch, soul contract info/clearing, pure Myolift • Torc • Body Waxing hypnosis and herbal treatments. essential oils & Crystal chakra bowls!

does the work.

Diet Master • Oxygen Bar • Reiki Dermalogica Facials • Oxygen Facials KURE SPA 430 Main Ave, Flr, Norwalk Teeth2nd Whitening (Wilton Line)

CORE RELATIONS

Karin Knoblich, CCEP 522 East Putnam Ave, Ste 8A, Greenwich 1239 Broadway, Ste 1003A, New York, NY Core-Relations.com • 917-548-8689

203-857-1500 Kure-Spa.com Save •Now with

Kure Spa rovides a Introductory Prices! place for people to rely on as part of Call 203-356-5822

Transform negativity into positive energy. Release stress, anxiety and their weekly routine to maintain a healthy lifestyle. depression through the use of Experience our 4-Pillars of Health for 30-days and High Ridge Road | Stamford, CT 0 breath, movement and touch. 1092 we’ll transform your life to one of Health, Healing Reclaim your authentic self by 7efitspact1@gmail.com | www.7efitspa & Vitality! Offering Vibrosaun, massage, and an allowing joy to guide and embody organic juice bar. See ad, page 12. the powerful, loving being you are.

Individual and couples sessions, workshops and groups.

SALTANA CAVE

WEIGHT LOSS NUWEIGH NUTRITION & WEIGHT LOSS SERVICES, LLC/ IDEAL PROTEIN CLINIC 90 Grove St, Ste 03, Ridgefield 203-403-4187 Ingrid@NuWeighWellness.com NuWeighWellness.com

The Ideal Protein Protocol is a medically derived weight loss method refined over 20 years. The fundamental philosophy is to increase overall well being through sensible weight loss and empower clients through coaching to make sustainable, smarter lifestyle choices after they have lost excess weight.

590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-969-4327 SaltanaCave.com

Fairfield County’s first and only therapeutic Himalayan salt cave provides relief from respiratory issues such as allergies, asthma, and side effects of smoking and pollution. Salt is naturally antiinflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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COSMIC RHYTHMS

H

by Alethea Hunt

appy holidays. Open discussion is favored during early December with Mercury making contact to Uranus and Jupiter—keep the lines of communication open because astonishing (good) information may come your way.

Honesty and candor also seem to be on tap; it’s possible to surprise someone with frankness or to be surprised. Just use a little discrimination so this doesn’t veer to be over-the-top, especially in the workplace and around coworkers at office parties and the like. Also be advised this humorous vibe can have people cracking inappropriate jokes that might not be the most politically correct. With Mars traversing Libra, know people can easily be annoyed by a lack of social graces now, even if they are good enough to cover it with a forced smile.

This outspoken Sagittarian vibe hits a climax at the New Moon on December 11; with this energy, there can be a real need for truth, but we also don’t want to go overboard either with Jupiter egging us on. Noteworthy as well is the penchant for excess that can be part of this energy—which may be a recipe for dietary overindulgence. Make it a point to exercise good judgment regarding where to selectively indulge; also bear in mind that it can be easy to take it too far the other way where the nutritional content/calorie count of every little thing is put under a microscope.

Strive for a more holistic perspective on dietary matters.

Black Magic Woman Venus in Scorpio scores romantic, sexy interludes with both Neptune and Pluto between December 1117; whether you want to be on the “naughty” or “nice” list, glam it up with some fantasy to intensify your bond with a partner. This vibe can be very tantric—a merger of spiritual and erotic—so put on some sexy music and help real magic can happen.

Around December 19, be careful with your words and do not say anything you might regret as Mercury in Capricorn finds itself in contact with Pluto and Uranus.

Something unexpected can fly out of your mouth now if you have been holding it back. It’s better to exercise a little extra verbal self-restraint so any potential for upset feelings and/or family upheaval can be averted.

A full moon in Cancer occurs on Christmas Day this year, stabilizing family situations. Contact to forgiving, accepting Neptune should help everyone to embrace the spirit of the season and try using some soothing music to set the ambiance for a peaceful, serene feeling because this could work wonders.

Notably, there is also somewhat of a communicable illness vibe around this Moon when it comes to family, so maybe keep the wipes or sanitizer handy and don’t get too close if somebody is sniffling or sneezing—especially on Christmas Eve. A practitioner of Western Tropical astrology, Alethea Hunt has been practicing for more than 17 years. Connect with her at 203-917-6312, Alethea@EmpoweredDestiny.com or EmpoweredDestiny.com.

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displayadvertiserindex 7eFit Spa

43

Acupuncture Center/ Ingri Boe-Wiegaard

41

Advanced Healing Skin Cream 62 Alina’s Patisserie Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care

52 7

Mind-Body Transformation

8

Mind-Body Transformation

13

Mother Earth Gallery

27

Mowatt Painting & Services

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Natural Awakenings’ Franchise Sales

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Judith Barr

27

Nature’s Temptations Healthy Food Market

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Basil Yoga

56

Nature’s Way Natural Foods

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Big Brothers Big Sisters

19

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66

O’Heaney Consulting

13

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7

The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center: Medical

2

The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center: Dental

2

Olivette 54 Robin Ordan, LMT

14

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27

Organic Sleep at Sleep Etc

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The Center for Natural Health

22

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17

Central Services

43

Ann Reeves, PsyD

14

Chamomille Natural Foods

53

The Cleanest Touch

32

Ridley-Lowell Business & Technical Institute

29

The Common Bond Market

54

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33

Crystal Visions

23

Salt of the Earth Therapeutic Spa 23

CT Headache & Migraine Center 11

Shalva Clinic/Ellen Lewis, ND

14

dōTerra/Lori Haggerty

38

Victoria Shaw, PhD

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Michael E. Doyle, MD/ Stamford Integrative Medicine

Patricia Singer

17

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PuREST Float Spa

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Embody the Sacred

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SOPHIA Natural Health Center

Eyecare Associates

9

Final Journey LLC

67

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Debra Gibson, ND

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Health 2 Go

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Total Life Care Center

Holistic Holiday at Sea

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17 16-17

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Touch of Sedona

Hunter Healing Hands

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TreeTech 47

Ifloat

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True Health Chiropractic

15

Izzi B’s

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Unity Center for Practical Spirituality

18

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9 17

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Westbrook Nature School

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Westport Farmers Market

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Whistle Stop Bakery

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Whole Foods

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Yoga for Everybody

56

Your Healthy Pet/Petcurean

65

Chosen by National Geographic Traveler as

One of the 100 best worldwide vacations to enrich your life.

Feb. 27 - Mar. 5, 2016 Join our 13th annual Holistic Holiday at Sea cruise for 7 nights on the luxurious MSC Divina, one of the most ecologically-friendly and elegant cruise liners on the seas. Bask in gracious Italian hospitality and service all while enjoying inspiring lectures and vegan natural foods prepared by our own chefs.

Departing from Miami, FL and sailing to beautiful St. Thomas, Virgin Islands; historic San Juan, Puerto Rico; & the paradise of Nassau, Bahamas. Learn more about the classes, cuisine and itinerary at holisticholidayatsea.com.

Food options for everyone - vegan, gluten-free, oil-free & ship’s menu

Join 1800+ Like-Minded Vegans

Lectures & Workshops

Featuring World-Renowned Chefs, Teachers & Healers Co-author of The China Study and author of Whole: Rethinking the Science of Nutrition; featured in the film Forks Over Knives

Physician, author, & internationally-recognized speaker on nutrition; founded NutritionFacts.org; spoke at Congress, on Dr. Oz, & the Colbert Report

T. COLIN CAMPBELL, PH.D.

MICHAEL GREGER, M.D.

Founder of the Physicians Commitee for Responsible Medicine; author of Food for Life & Power Foods for the Brain; active health advocate

Swim, snorkel & kayak in the crystal waters of the Caribbean

Long-time radio host, acclaimed physician and health educator; practices nutritionally-based medicine at True North Health Center

NEAL BARNARD, M.D. Continuing Education Credits (CMEs & CEUs) will be available Award-winning environmentally-friendly ship

MICHAEL KLAPER, M.D.

Chef & author of Unprocessed: How to Achieve Vibrant Health and Your Ideal Weight, inspiring public speaker & cooking instructor

Yoga teacher, health & wellness coach, aerial performer, stunt woman & actor. Her education stems from a lifetime of living a holistic lifestyle.

CHEF AJ

ANGELICA KUSHI

Dancing, socials & singles events Vegan pizza & ice cream parties Cancer support group & recovery panel 35 teachers 135 lectures & workshops 10 cooking classes, 4 intensives Daily yoga, meditation, Pilates, Qi Gong, Do-In, running, fitness & body building classes Private consultations & treatments available

Relaxing Vacation

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Spiritual Practices

holisticholidayatsea.com info@holisticholidayatsea.com Toll-Free (US): 1-800-496-0989 Ph: 1-828-749-9537 Or join the conversation: Holistic Holiday at Sea holisticholidayatsea.com/blog

Gourmet Cuisine

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Lorraine Travel bookings@holisticholidayatsea.com Toll-Free: 1-877-844-7977 Ph: 1-305-443-0542 (option 1 for program information option 2 for travel agent) All reservations for our holistic group must be made through Lorraine Travel

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Fairfield County Edition

35 Corporate Drive Trumbull, CT 06611 natural www.PuRestfloat.com awakenings n