Natural Awakenings Fairfield County by Natural Awakenings Magazine

E HEALTHY LIVING E FR

HEALTHY

2018

PLANET

KEEP ALL YEAR

NATURAL

LIVING DIRECTORY

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition | eNaturalAwakenings.com Natural Living Directory 2018

The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center z

The Natural Choice

Optimize Your Smile and Your Health! Whole-Body DentistryÂŽ 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 dentistryÂŽ

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

Doesn't It Make Sense To See The Authority?

Join our FREE online health newsletter! 501 Kings highway east, suite 108 | Fairfield, Ct | 203-371-0330 | WholeBodydentistry.com

Caring Integrative Physicians Offering the Best in Holistic Healing The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center

Our integrative approach treats a wide range of conditions including:

Adam Breiner, ND Brain Health Lyme Disease

David Brady, ND, CCN Fibromyalgia Thyroid Conditions

ADD/ADHD Allergies Anxiety & Depression Autism Brain Injuries Chronic Fatigue or Fatigue Concerns

Insomnia Lyme Disease Sports Injuries Stress-related Symptoms Thyroid & Adrenal Issues Toxicities Weight Gain

Difficulting Concentrating Female Concerns Fibromyalgia Gastrointestinal Concerns Healthy Aging Hormonal Issues Immune Disorders

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

David Johnston, DO Osteopathic Medicine Cranial Osteopathy

Elena Sokolova, MD, ND Oriental Medicine Female Health

Hyperbaric Oxygen Neurofeedback Acupuncture Chinese Medicine Homeopathy Energy Medicine

Colon Hydrotherapy Natural Hormone Therapy Nutritional Assessment Allergy Desensitization Detoxification Pulsed Magnetic Field Therapy

Bio-identical Hormone Therapy PRP & Stem Cell PEMF & Bemer IV Nutrient & Chelation Therapy Thermography Cranial Osteopathy

To learn more, watch our website videos.

Whole-Body Medicine, LLC ~ The Natural Approach for Optimal Health 501 Kings Highway East, Suite 108 | Fairfield, CT | 203-371-8258 | WholeBodyMed.com 2

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

TO THRIVE IN TODAY'S WORLD, MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS NEED TO:

PUBLIC/PRIVATE EDUCATION

WORKSPACE EDUCATION

Master the Foundational Literacies Prepare for College Entrance Develop an Entrepreneurial Mindset Solve Real-World Problems Take on Enormous Collaborative Projects Think Critically and Creatively Become Expert Communicators Contribute as Global Citizens Discover Who They Are, and Start to Build the BEST. LIFE. EVER. K-12 Education Reimagined, in Bethel, CT. www.WorkspaceEducation.org Annual membership for a family of four is $5,890. Call or email Jenna to set up a visit. (203) 309-0384 Jenna@WorkspaceEducation.org

SCHEDULE YOUR TOUR, TODAY!

Natural Living Directory 2018

Contents

14 HARDWIRED FOR

PASSIONATE CHANGE

Intensive Brain-Based Therapies for Better Mental Health

Distributor of

TOURMALINE SPRING Sacred Living Water

16 DIAL DOWN STRESS How to Stay Calm and Cool

From the summit of the highest point of Cumberland County in Maine, Tourmaline Spring water is naturally ﬁltered through rich granite, abundant with the gemstone tourmaline.

26 I LOVE YOU, SELF

What We Need is Within, not Without

Sanctuary & Wellness Center and Heart & Home Store 346 Main Street S. Woodbury • 203.405.2241 Workshops • Classes • Seminars • Retreats Therapeutic Spa 787 Main Street S. Woodbury • 203.586.1172 Alternative & Holistic Therapies & Treatments Including Salt • Infrared • Massage & other modalities See our full list of services at

28 THE ART OF GENTLENESS

Be Gentle with This Life and It Will Be Gentle with You

34 2018 NATURAL

LIVING DIRECTORY

82 BANISHING

BODY-IMAGE BLUES How Teens Can Learn to Love Their Looks

Soul Synergy WellneSS

Formerly 7e Fit Spa Transformative treatments to support your lifelong physical, mental, emotional, & spiritual health.

GROUP

General Blood Flow Nutrition & Oxygen Supply Cellular Waste Disposal Cardiac Function Physical Fitness Strength, Energy, Endurance Stress Reduction & Relax Mental Acuity, Focus Body Discomfort Quality of Life & Health

FREE DEMOS

Valentines Day Feb 14 1 - 9 pm

Come immerse yourselves in the healing power of LOVE! Discounted & FREE Treatments, Prizes, Raffle, Giveaways, Refreshments! Singles & Couples Welcome

OuR SERvICES INCLudE: • Infrared Sauna with Color Therapy • Non-invasive Body Contouring: Cavi-Lipo, Torc, & Myolift • Facials: Oxygen, Anti-aging, & Microdermabrasion • Massage Therapy • Reflexology • Aromatherapy: Raindrop Technique Emotional Release with Essential Oils • Hypnosis • Psychic Medium • Clairvoyant • 3rd Generational Healer (modern & ancient practices) • Crystal Healing • Life Coaching • Tarot Intuitive Readings • Nutritionist • Meditation • Sound Therapy Please visit our website to find out about our monthly group experiences and special events. We sell out quickly, so reserve your space today!

203-356-5822 • 1492 High Ridge Rd, Stamford, CT Soulsynergywellness1114@gmail.com • SoulSynergyWellness.co 4

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

84 SUSTAINABILITY

EFFORTS TAKE ROOT IN CONNECTICUT

Events Aim to Inspire and Showcase Best Practices

90 UNDERSTANDING

NUTRACEUTICALS

How They Differ from Health Store Supplements

94 PETS ¤ MUSIC

Each Species Grooves to Its Own Beat

DEPARTMENTS 8 health briefs 12 global briefs 13 eco tip 14 community

spotlight 24 healing ways 30 inspiration 82 healthy kids 84 inspired table

eNaturalAwakenings.com

92 naturally

healthy pet 95 pet resource guide 98 calendar 102 ad index

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.

Seeking Natural Solutions for Your Healthcare Needs? Natural Care for the Whole Body and Family

From treating disease conditions to preventive healthcare, Dr. Jaquel believes in addressing the underlying cause of disease to resolve health issues.

NATURAL LIVING

DIRECTORY 2018 24

Special Care for Special Issues Dr. Jaquel offers specialty care for autoimmune diseases and chronic immune dysfunction, Lyme disease, asthma and allergy, and childhood disorders.

“Explore natural medicine with me. Your health is my priority.” - Dr. Jaquel

Ingels Family Health

22 Fairfield Place Fairfield, CT 06824 www.ingelsfamilyhealth.com

94 ADVERTISING & SUBMISSIONS HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 203-885-4674 or email FFCAdvertising@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com. Deadline for ads: the 12th of the month. EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com. Deadline for News Briefs: the 12th of the month. CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com. Deadline for magazine calendar listings: the 12th of the month. Website calendar listings may be entered at any time. REGIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-434-9392. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

Call for your FREE 10 minute Consultation

203-254-9957

Touch of Sedona The Finest in Southwest Goods & Healing Items

A Unique Boutique with Heartfelt Purpose

Native American Art Turquoise & Silver Jewelry Crystals of all sizes Chakra Jewelry Dreamcatchers Buddhas • Books • Angels Candles • Incense • Oils F

Visit us in Ridgefield and our New Store in Bethel! www.touchofsedonaridgefield.com Both Locations 125 Greenwood Ave. 452 Main Street Open Everyday Ridgefield, CT Bethel, CT Until 5:30pm 203-438-7146 475-329-2087 Natural Living Directory 2018

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

FAIRFIELD COUNTY/ HOUSATONIC VALLEY PUBLISHER Nicole Miale EDITORS Michelle Bense Ariana Rawls Fine DESIGN & PRODUCTION Kathleen Fellows Erica Mills CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Brielle Bleeker Greer Jonas Brooke Adams Law Michele Leigh Greg Madden Mary Oquendo SALES & MARKETING Alexa Ferrucci Nicole Miale ACCOUNTING Jill Badyrka WEBSITE Erica Mills DISTRIBUTION Man in Motion LLC

CONTACT US 137 Danbury Rd, #323, New Milford, CT 06776 Phone: 203-885-4674 Fax: 203-516-2392 NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com eNaturalAwakenings.com SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available by sending $30 (for 12 issues) to the above address.

NATIONAL TEAM CEO/FOUNDER Sharon Bruckman NATIONAL EDITOR Alison Chabonais MANAGING EDITOR Linda Sechrist NATIONAL ART DIRECTOR Stephen Blancett SR. ART/MKTG. DIRECTOR Steve Hagewood FINANCIAL MANAGER Mary Bruhn FRANCHISE DIRECTOR Anna Romano FRANCHISE SUPPORT MGR. Heather Gibbs WEBSITE COORDINATOR Rachael Oppy NATIONAL ADVERTISING Kara Scofield Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 4933 Tamiami Trail N., Ste. 203 Naples, FL 34103 Ph: 239-434-9392 • Fax: 239-434-9513 NaturalAwakeningsMag.com © 2018 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

letter from publisher

his is the thirteenth year that Natural Awakenings has been serving the many communities of western Connecticut. Over the years, we have fostered inspiration, growth, education and lots of connections through rich content, diverse advertising and promotion of/involvement in many community activities. In February each year, we create a showcase reference guide for the businesses and practitioners in the region, a celebration and gathering of what our area has to offer. Welcome to the 2018 Natural Living Directory! It feels like our area is positively exploding with momentum, Nicole Miale purpose and energy! This year’s edition reflects that; it is one of our largest yet, including more than 200 businesses waiting to help our readers achieve their goals in 2018. While an exciting growth milestone for us, this issue makes an even more important and powerful statement about the vitality and passion of the providers we are fortunate to connect with our loyal, engaged readers. Our local community is rich with truly incredible resources, as the following pages can attest. In this special issue, we move the regular Community Resource Guide toward the front of the magazine. We include expanded profiles of many wellness providers and businesses as well as a Natural Living Glossary to help you better understand terminology which may be new. We’re confident that no matter what your personal vision or mission is for this year, you will find something or someone in these pages that inspires or supports your efforts to become a healthier, happier you. The depth and breadth of this edition make it a true reference guide to be kept all year and referred to in times of need. Don’t worry if you lend your copy out and it doesn’t come back! You’ll have plenty of opportunity to pick up another; this unique edition can be found throughout Fairfield and southwestern Litchfield Counties at our major rack distribution points, events and conferences throughout the rest of the year. And don’t forget you can always find the digital edition on eNaturalAwakenings.com or visit our Facebook page for the link. Empowering positive lifestyle change is the driving mission of this publication. That has never been more important; finding and maintaining personal balance is absolutely necessary as the world around us shifts in major ways out of our immediate control. Learn to surf the waves of uncertainty and use your infinite power for your own good. Let the amazing resources in this edition be your guides and supports on your journey. Use the ideas and tools that appeal to you; then let your increased positive energy ripple back out into the world around you. It will make a bigger difference than you could ever know. May 2018 be everything you desire and bring more than you have yet dreamed. Here’s to a vibrant year of well-being for you, your family (human, furry, scaled or feathered), friends, community and the world we all share. With love and light,

Natural Awakenings Magazine is ranked 5th Nationally in CISION’S® 2016 Top 10 Health & Fitness Magazines

See our advertiser index on page 102, making it easier to find the resources you need.

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

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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TRANSFORMATIVE COACH TRAINING With Guthrie Sayen PhD, PCC

If you have ever thought about becoming a life coach, or wish to enhance your skills in your current profession, consider enrolling in the Transformative Coach Training program. Earn an Associate Certified Coach Credential in a four-month on-site program focusing on a transformative way of being while in relationship with self and others. Our Coach Trainer, Dr. Sayen, is the co-founder and lead trainer of Transformative Coach Training, senior faculty for Coaching for Transformation.

Enrolling Now for March – Space Limited

• • • •

Weekend 1 March 23-25 Weekend 2 April 21-22 Weekend 3 May 19-20 Weekend 4 June 16-17

“The Graduate Institute is the setting for the new educational model.” Caroline Myss

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ACSTH

Approved Coach Specific Training Hours International Coach Federation

MASTER OF ARTS DEGREE • Integrative Health & Healing • Learning & Thinking • Organizational Leadership • Consciousness Studies “I have seen the changes in our when they achieve new • Writing & Oral Traditions students levels of self-empowerment and Certificate Programs Available

Enrolling Now For Spring

discovery, as well as prepare themselves for higher levels of professional work.” Dr. Bernie Siegel

Two-Year Master Degree Program

Holistic Graduate Studies

203.874.4252 • WWW.LEARN.EDU Natural Living Directory 2018 Main Campus: 171 Amity Road, Bethany, CT O6524

health briefs

Lutein in Greens and Eggs Slows Cognitive Aging

Sugar Linked to Depression HENX/Shutterstock.com

RED WINE LESS TOXIC THAN WHITE Alcohol has been linked with cancer in about 3.6 percent of cases worldwide, due to the presence of acetaldehyde, which damages DNA and prevents it from repairing itself. A study published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention that involved 200,000 people found a distinct connection between white wine in particular and melanoma, the deadliest type of skin cancer. Sun exposure is a well-known cancer risk, but this and other studies have found that subjects often develop melanoma primarily on the trunks of their bodies, which are usually covered by clothing, and it is almost always curable if the cancer is caught early.

The journal Scientific Reports recently published a study that confirmed a link between a diet high in sugar and common mental disorders. In 2002, researchers from Baylor College found that higher rates of refined sugar consumption were associated with higher rates of depression. A 2015 study that included nearly 70,000 women found a higher likelihood of depression in those with high added sugar intake, but not in those with a high intake of naturally occurring sugars such as those found in fruit. The World Health Organization recommends that people reduce their daily intake of added sugars to less than 5 percent of their total energy intake; Americans typically consume three times that much. Meanwhile, one in six people worldwide suffers from a common mental problem such as a mood or anxiety disorder.

Jessica Hunter

Hunter Healing Hands

Integrative & Intuitive Shamanic Wellness Integrative & Intuitive Healing Sessions Shamanic Healing, Shamanic Spirit Communication, Soul Retrieval, Extraction, Depossession, Curse Unraveling, Crystal Healing, Acupressure, Reiki

CertiďŹ cation & Accredited Programs in Reiki, Crystal Healing, & Shamanic Healing

Professional Space Clearing & Blessing for Homes, Land or Businesses

Group Events

Shamanic & Empath Workshops

Drum & Rattle Making Workshops

203-916-8381 | www. hunterhealinghands. com | hunterhealinghands@hotmail. com 8

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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zhuk _ ladybug/Shutterstock.com

Natali Zakharova/Shutterstock.com

Healthy diet options of spinach and kale may also help keep our brains fit. In a study from the University of Illinois appearing in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, 60 adults between 25 and 45 years old having higher levels of lutein, a nutrient found in green, leafy vegetables, avocados and eggs, had neural responses more on par with younger people than others of their own age. Lutein is a nutrient that the body canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make on its own, so it must be acquired through diet. It accumulates in brain tissues and the eyes, which allows researchers to measure levels without using invasive techniques.

THIRD-PERSON SELF-TALK AIDS IN EMOTIONAL CONTROL

MindBody Mastery Nicole Fevrier Davis

Certified Personal Trainer NASM & AFAA Psychic/Reiki Master #notyouraveragetrainer (646)739-7879 MindBodyMastery.org

As reported in Scientific Reports, two studies of 37 and 52 people at Michigan State University have discovered that talking to ourselves in the third person using statements like, “Why is John upset?” instead of, “Why am I upset?” can help improve our ability to control our emotions. Everyone occasionally engages in internal monologue, an inner voice that guides our moment-to-moment reflections. Now, scientists believe that the language used in the process influences actions differently. The premise is that third-person self-talk leads us to think about ourselves similarly to how we think about others, which provides the psychological distance needed to facilitate self-control.

Neurofeedback is a noninvasive form of neuropathy that aims to optimize overall brain function by addressing maladaptive brainwave patterns resulting in the improvement of many conditions and symptoms.

Schedule a consultation today with Dr. Nadia Noori Shalva Clinic |8 Lincoln Street, Westport, CT | www.shalvaclinic.org | 203-916-4600

ǊsĶ ǼÞŸŘǣÌÞƼǣʳʳʳÞŘ _ÞǣǼǋsǣǣʰ sŘ_ÞŘ¶ʰ Es¶ÞŘŘÞŘ¶ʳʳʳɠÌ Ǽ _Ÿ Ý _Ÿ ŘŸɠʷ

ǻǋÞs_ sɚsǋɴǼÌÞŘ¶ Ř_ ǣǼÞĶĶ ǢǼȖOĨʷ

Certified Relationship Coach Certified Bereavement Coach Certified Professional Coach Certified Consulting Hypnotist

Call today and navigate a way through your changing relationships.

ĶǼÌs ʹÌs Ķsǋʺ ®ŸȖŘ_sǋ Ř_ _ÞǋsOǼŸǋ Ÿ¯ ȕŘÞɚsǋǣ Ķ ÝŘǼsĶĶÞ¶sŘOsʰ ĵĵN ˡ˟ˢʳˣˤˠʳˢˢ˧ˢ

ɠsEǣÞǼsʲ ȖŘÞɚsǋǣ ĶÞŘǼsĶĶÞ¶sŘOsʳÞŘ¯Ÿ sŎ ÞĶʲ ǣȖƼƼŸǋǼ˔ȖŘÞɚsǋǣ ĶÞŘǼsĶĶÞ¶sŘOsʳÞŘ¯Ÿ Natural Living Directory 2018

health brief

ment usng stem cell therapy has been reported treating Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, COPD, dementia and Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, Type 2 diabetes, chronic Lyme disease, Epstein Barr, and other autoimmune diseases.

How Does Stem Cell Therapy Work?

Regenerative Medicine with Adult Stem Cells

tem cells are found throughout the body and play a crucial role in health and recovery from injury. They are our own built-in repair systems that regenerate cells damaged by disease, injury and everyday wear-and-tear of body tissues. Extensive clinical research has shown that it is possible to use adult stem cells extracted from a patient’s own body to effectively regenerate many body tissues.

Stem Cells for Elite Athletes and for Us Regenerative medicine using stem cells is perhaps best known for the results achieved in orthopedic and sports medicine where elite athletes across a wide spectrum of professional sports are treated for joint problems and other associated injuries. These same procedures are now being used in offices as well to treat the everyday conditions people commonly suffer from, such as arthritis and other musculoskeletal problems. Beyond orthopedic medicine, the opportunity for stem cells extends to treatments for a variety of medical conditions, including autoimmune, cardiovascular, neuromuscular and others. Some of the conditions which may be benefitted by stem cell therapy are those for which there may be limited help from existing drug therapy or other currently available treatments. Improve-

Sarah Rotella

• Integrative Wellness Therapist • Intuitive Medical-Energetic & Spiritual Healer • Expert Advanced Manual Therapies LMT #005377 • Certified Practitioner & Educator of Frequency Specific Microcurrent

Adult stem cells can be extracted from a person’s bone marrow during a simple in-office procedure. These type of stem cells are called autologous stem cells as they are from the person’s own body; there is no possibility of rejection of the cells or any allergic reaction to them. After their extraction from the bone marrow and then injection back into the body, stem cells are dispersed into the adjacent tissues. Autologous adult stem cells use cell division to replicate themselves, and differentiate into different types of regenerative cells to repair different types of diseased body tissues. They also have a “paracrine” effect, causing the secretion of many essential growth and other tissue-healing factors. Stem cells have also been shown to promote the growth of blood vessels to facilitate tissue formation, and repair of cells and body tissues.

Are There Any Side Effects or Dangers with Stem Cell Therapy? The side effects reported with adult stem cell therapy are only those associated with having the minor office procedure of the extraction of stem cells from bone marrow and receiving a stem cell injection. These minor side effects may include soreness and irritation at an injection site, a small bruise, or short-term nausea or headache. The stem cells themselves, taken from patients’ own bodies, have not been reported to have negative side effects by their action. Modern stem cell therapy is a treatment with potentially positive benefits for those suffering from conditions for which they have not yet found other effective and safe treatments. Henry Sobo, MD, a Stamford-based medical doctor practicing internal medicine, also has a license as a homeopathic physician. He is a board-certified member of the American Society of Bariatric Physicians and a diplomate candidate of the American College for Advancement in Medicine. Connect at DrSobo.com. See ad, page 27.

Inspiring the sacred essence and spirit of every being toward self-awareness, life purpose, and passion for self and all humanity. Transformational Healing Using Advanced Clinical Applications to Align Mind, Body and Spirit • Intuitive Mentorship • Experiential Workshops • Empowered Group Sessions • Revolutionary Self Care

203-525-5830

Additional locations in Greenwich & Southbury

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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100 Danbury Rd. Suite 102 Ridgefield, CT 06877 s.light@mac.com

www.SenLightenMent.com

Isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t It Time For a Different Approach?

Natural Living Directory 2018

global briefs Greenpeace Lobbies to Create Huge Antarctic Preserve

(203)614-1089 info@being-centered.com www.being-centered.com Ridgeﬁeld, CT

Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging (DITI) oﬀers safe, FDA approved full body or breast screening.

Non Invasive • No Radiation • Possible 8 years earlier breast cancer detection vs mammogram • Clinical imaging for detecting and monitoring a number of diseases and physical injuries.

Rachel Mazzarelli ��,��

203-257-3785

Oﬃces throughout Fairﬁeld County, Southbury, New Haven, Milford, and New York

whthermography@gmail.com www.wholehealththermography.com 12

Renewable Payoff Germany Undergoes an Energy Renaissance

Last May, Germany’s renewable energy mix of solar, wind, hydropower and biomass generated so much power for a few hours that customers actually got paid for using electricity. The country’s renewable power sources generate 88 percent of total electricity demand, and growing wind power assets alone are expected to make the phenomenon a regular occurrence. When this happens, commercial producers either close power stations to reduce the electricity supply or pay consumers to take it off the grid.

xujun /Shutterstock.com

psychodynamic psychotherapy psychological testing

Bottle Buyback

Britain May Charge Deposit to Reduce Bottle Litter

Britain only recycled 57 percent of the plastic bottles that were sold there in 2016, and is considering charging a deposit fee to reduce litter. Scotland is also introducing a deposit return policy for cans and bottles. Denmark recycles 90 percent and South Australia 80 percent by using deposits as an incentive. UK Environment Secretary Michael Gove says that almost 8 million tons of plastic are dumped into the world’s oceans each year, with up to 80 percent washing out to sea from land. Gove is consulting with the industry to determine the advantages and disadvantages of different types of reward and return systems for plastic, metal and glass drinks containers. Britain’s decision to charge a deposit for each plastic bag in 2015 has slashed usage.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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Picsfive/Shutterstock.com

Dr. Teresa Reyes Castillo Dr. Anna Huff providing:

The South Pole is Earth’s last uninhabited outpost, and Greenpeace seeks to establish an Antarctic sanctuary of almost three-quarters of a million square miles in the Weddell Sea adjacent to the vast continent that would protect whales, penguins and other wildlife. The nonprofit has called for governments to show greater vision and ambition. Frida Bengtsson, head of the Greenpeace Antarctic campaign, states, “Over the next 12 months, we have an opportunity to make history: to create an Antarctic Ocean sanctuary which would be the largest protected area on Earth.” She notes that it would also ensure healthier oceans that soak up carbon dioxide to moderate climate change. The proposal, submitted by the European Union and promoted by the German government, will be considered in October by the governmental bodies responsible for managing the Antarctic marine environment. It follows the successful adoption of the Ross Sea sanctuary in 2016.

Yongyut Kumsr/Shutterstock.com

Sealife Sanctuary

eco tip

Coprid/Shutterstock.com

Yes to Yarn

Popular Needlework Crafts Go Green

Whether for function, decoration or personal gifting, the skillful hobbies of yarn arts such as knitting, quilting, weaving, stitching, sewing, crocheting and macramé are going strong. The difference these days is that doing it eco-responsibly is enhancing the process. “More people are making and hand-dyeing their own yarn,” says blogger Ann Budd (AnnBuddKnits.com), of Boulder, Colorado, former editor of Interweave Knits magazine and author of Knitting Green. “The results are beautiful with different color combinations, and even striping.” Also, more yarn is American-sourced. “Shearing and dyeing are done here to cut down on the overall carbon footprint,” explains Budd, who conducts workshops for shops and clubs, plus two annual learning retreats. This year’s are in Savannah, Georgia, from April 26 to 29, and in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, from September 20 to 23. GreenAmerica.org suggests Green Mountain Spinnery (Spinnery.com) as a U.S. source of certified organic, natural fiber yarns processed without toxic oils, chemicals or dyes; Ecobutterfly Organics (Ecobutterfly.com), for vegan-friendly, fair trade and botanically dyed organic cotton yarns and fiber, recycled glass beads, buttons and kits; and Organic Cotton Plus (OrganicCottonPlus.com), offering certified organic woven and knit fabrics, hemp and hemp-blended fabrics, threads, ribbons and vegetable-based dyes. Interweave (Interweave.com), a craft magazine publisher, provides video and online education. Learn how to avoid potential hand and arm pain from repetitive motions with the new book Knitting Comfortably: The Ergonomics of Handknitting (ErgoIKnit.com) by San Francisco physical therapist and needlework teacher Carson Demers. For many needlework fans, charitable volunteering keeps their fingers flying. Members of the nonprofit Mittens for Detroit (MittensForDetroit.org) make mittens, gloves, hats and lapghans for children and adults in need. Donna Davis, of Roswell, New Mexico, has knitted hats for African newborns, wool items for Eastern European orphans and scarves for American artists. Learn more at KnittingForCharity.org.

�rista Zi��er�

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Young Living Essential Oils Independent Distributor Dewdrop Oils

A HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE WITH ESSENTIAL OILS

member #1974752

wellness S purpose S abundance www.youngliving.com | kristazoils@gmail.com | 203-521-6068

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

Naturopathic Physician & Licensed Acupuncturist Holistic, Natural Medicine for Health and Wellbeing Botanicals, Nutrition, Acupuncture, Homeopathy, Lab testing & more

Anxiety/Depression • Auto-Immune Disease • Chemical Toxicity Digestive Issues • Fatigue • Hormone Imbalance • Insomnia Muscle/Joint Pain • Tobacco Addiction • Stress Reduction

Connecticut

y New York

72 North St. Suite 100A, 4 Smith Ave, 2nd Floor Mount Kisco, NY, 10549 Danbury, CT 06810

Kurt Beil, ND, LAc, MPH

HUDSON VALLEY NATURAL HEALTH

914-362-8315 |drkurt@earthlink.net |hudsonvalleynaturalhealth.com

Natural Living Directory 2018

community spotlight

Hardwired for Passionate Change Roseann Capanna-Hodge & Associates Offers Intensive Brain-Based Therapies for Better Mental Health by Nicole Miale

hile the causes are a subject of widespread debate, our country is experiencing a mental health crisis of soberWe offer non-medication alternatives for healing ing proportions. Affecting people of all ages and beginCounseling Neurofeedback & Biofeedback ning at extremely young ages, the incidence of diagnosed Play Therapy mental Psychoeducational &Neuropsychological Assessment Executive Functioning Coaching/Therapy Bio-Regulation Therapy (BRT) healthAdvanced dysfunction in our country is rising. Ridgefield’s Dr. Roseann Parent Education and Therapy Meditation Capanna-Hodge has been on the front lines witnessing this sad realBehavioral Support Hypnosis 360° Reboot® Program ity. “In my 25 EFT/Tapping years in mental health, people only seem to be more anxious and the level of issues children have has intensified,” she says. The good news is there are now more options available to those suffering from various psychological issues. Educating the public about the spectrum of options and working with individuals and Call our office today to schedule your families on better mental health in a more holistic manner is what QEEG Brain Map and begin a new chapter in wellness! the team at Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge & Associates do every day. 203.438.4848  info@drroseann.com  www.drroseann.com “When I started evaluating and treating children and famiWe treat the following conditions: lies, I quickly there weren’t a lot of scientifically-based ADHD / ADD /learned Executive Functioning Depression / Mood Issues Anxiety & Anxiety-Related Disorders Learning Disability / Dyslexia therapies beingAutism offered or utilized.Lyme, Medication was king and that PANDAS / PANS & Other Chronic Health Conditions Behavioral & Social Issues PTSD / Trauma was whatChronic every mental health and medical practitioner recomPain / Fibromyalgia Seizures Concussion / TBI Sleepas Problems mended,” Capanna-Hodge says of her early days a psychologist. “I began a quest for understanding not just the brain but the RIDGEFIELD OFFICE 898 Ethan Allen Highway, Suite 6, Ridgefield, CT 06877 Satellite Office in Newtown, CT mind-body connection. I realized very few of my clients were getting to the root cause of their issues. Our system is designed to just treat symptoms. I knew we could do better, and this realization changed the way I practiced.” She knew there had to be an alternative because witnessing suffering children and families was simply too hard. That’s when she discovered neurofeedback, a brain-based tool able to measure and alter brain wave activity. This technology is one of several that Capanna-Hodge uses that incorporates neuroscience and research; biofeedback and advanced bioregulation therapy are two others. These modalities calm the central nervous system and demonstrate good effect when coupled with psychotherapy and other therapeutic techniques such as EFT/tapping, hypnosis, somatic therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). “In the beginning, we really just grew to accommodate all the 14

You Have a Choice!

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

people who found me because traditional treatments failed them or they wanted to avoid medication,” Capanna-Hodge says. “With the increase in complex cases, we added more holistic, yet researchbased therapies. People improved, so we grew as word spread.” Capanna-Hodge now directs a comprehensive holistic psychotherapy center that includes a staff of 14 therapists and other professionals. Each therapist has a different specialty but they work together cohesively to coordinate the best client care possible. Their work is based on the belief that nutrition, restorative sleep, reduced stress, and addressing genetic and nutrient deficiencies are the platform for improved mental and physical health. “We use therapies that tap directly into the client’s subconscious, which is really in control,” Capanna-Hodge explains. “We really love working with patients with issues of all complexities. We are able to couple our holistic therapies with psychotherapy in a way that helps clients progress.” Bringing children, families and adults relief is the guiding principle of Capanna-Hodge’s mission. She is passionate and focused about the importance and necessity of the work, especially in these times. “People are suffering and feel frightened, and some even feel like they have run out of hope because they haven’t found something that helps,” she says. “I get so excited that children and individuals get better in such a holistic manner and they don’t have to use less effective medications that always come with side effects and potential toxicity. Neurofeedback and biofeedback often work quickly to reduce symptoms and without side effects.” “If you or your child aren’t progressing, you are looking to avoid medication, or you really want to get to the root cause that is preventing you from wellness, then our office provides effective and holistic therapies that are rooted in neuroscience and supported by research,” she says. Progress is measured with QEEG brain maps— which are a visible representation of one’s brain wave patterns— cognitive testing, and/or behavioral ratings. The therapies the center offers are pleasant and accessible to even very young children or individuals with more severe disabilities or chronic issues.” Thankfully, the tide is turning, Capanna-Hodge says, because individuals with mental health and physical issues are seeking out holistic therapies when conventional approaches fail them. This, in turn, is forcing traditional mental health and medical practitioners to learn more or even recommend them. The center launched a new program last year, a 360 Reboot intensive therapies support program, designed to address a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, PTSD, OCD, sensory processing, LD and others, in a 10-day or two-week format. “The program crosses multiple modalities and works on the premise of addressing root issues and rebooting the brain and body,” Capanna-Hodge explains. “We can provide short-term or long- term support with intensive clients. I just love watching a child, family and/or adult change with holistic therapies.” Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge & Associates is located in Ridgefield and Newtown. For more information or to make an appointment for an assessment, call 203-438-4848, email Info@DrRoseann.com or visit DrRoseann.com. See ad, page 33. Nicole Miale is Publisher of Natural Awakenings of Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley, CT and Natural Awakenings of Greater Hartford County, CT. Connect with her at NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

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DIAL DOWN STRESS How to Stay Calm and Cool by Lisa Marshall

hether from natural disasters, divisive politics, unmanageable workloads or a smartphone culture that makes it tough to unplug, U.S. adults are feeling more strain now than they have at any other time in the past decade, according to the American Psychological Association’s 2017 Stress in America Survey. One in three say their stress has increased in the past year and one in five rate the level at eight or more on a scale of one to 10. About three in five, or 59 percent, say they believe this is “the lowest point in the nation’s history” and nearly two-thirds say concerns about our nation’s future (including its health care, economy and international relations) are key sources of their stress. “We’re seeing significant stress transcending party lines,” notes Arthur C. Evans Jr., Ph.D., the association’s CEO. All that stress is having a powerful impact on health, with as many as 80 percent of visits to primary care physicians characterized as stress-related, according to the American Medical Association. 16

Adopting the right attitude can convert a negative stress into a positive one. ~Hans Selye Workplace stress accounts for 120,000 deaths a year—more than influenza, diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease combined—according to a 2015 Stanford University study. Yet, empowering news has emerged amid this epidemic of anxiety-related illness. Research shows that by eating right, exercising and changing our mindset about stress itself, we can buffer our bodies from many health hazards. “Unfortunately, you can’t always avoid the things that stress you out. But you can control how you respond to stress before it takes over your life,” says Melanie Greenberg, Ph.D., a Mill Valley, California, psychologist and author of the recent book The Stress-Proof Brain: Master Your Emotional Response to Stress Using Mindfulness and Neuroplasticity.

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Our Brain on Stress

Whether it’s an urgent email from the boss or a rude motorist driving unsafely, tense situations elicit a physiological response remarkably similar to what might occur if we were chased by a lion. Deep inside an almond-shaped region of the brain called the amygdala, an alarm goes off, signaling the release of hormones like adrenaline and cortisol that boost heart rate, usher extra blood to muscles, hasten breathing and spike blood sugar to provide more fuel for the brain to react. Evolutionarily, this response was key to early human survival, providing the energy boost needed to flee predators. Even today, it has its upside, says Greenberg. “In the short term, stress can be exciting and even beneficial, revving you up so you can put your passion and energy into something.” But chronic excess can lead to high blood pressure and blood sugar, inflammation, cognitive problems and a hair-trigger response to stress, in which our body overreacts even to mild annoyances. It can also, research suggests, accelerate aging by

eroding the protective caps on our chromosomes, called telomeres. “Think of the stress response as an elastic band,” says Dr. Mithu Storoni, a Hong Kong physician and author of the new book Stress Proof: The Scientific Solution to Protect Your Brain and Body — and Be More Resilient Every Day. “If you pull it and it snaps back immediately, that’s fine. But if you pull it too intensely or too frequently, it doesn’t snap back, and there are lots of downstream consequences.”

Stress-Proofing Our Body

Eating right can better protect our bodies, says New York City Registered Dietitian Malina Malkani. She recommends loading up on nutrient-dense, high-fiber foods like leafy greens, beans and lentils, nuts and seeds during stressful times, because they can slow our rate of digestion and minimize unhealthy dips and spikes in blood sugar. Beneficial, bacteria-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut and kimchi are other foundational foods for stressresilience, says Storoni, because they can dampen bodily inflammation that arises

from chronic tension. They can also replenish bacterial strains like lactobacillus and bifidobacteria which, according to studies of college students, tend to decrease when we feel pushed beyond our limits to handle what’s coming at us. One 2016 study of 171 volunteers, published in the Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine, found that those that ate yogurt containing lactobacillus plantarum daily for two months had fewer markers of stress in their blood. Another study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2007 found that when 132 adults drank a probiotic-infused milk drink daily for three weeks and were then subjected to an anxiety-prone situation, their brains reacted more calmly than those of a control group. “Probably the most important thing you can do to make your body stressresilient is to maintain a healthy ecosystem of bacteria in your gut,” advises Malkani, who recommends exchanging dessert for low-sugar yogurt every day and taking probiotic supplements as well as steering clear of sweetened beverages and refined carbohydrates. The spice turmeric is also a

good stress-buster due to its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to help normalize blood sugar, Storoni notes. Despite our natural craving for comfort food, it’s a good idea to go easy on saturated fats in the immediate aftermath of a traumatic situation, because stress slows fat metabolism. In one recent study, Ohio State University researchers asked 58 women about their previous day’s stressors, and then fed them the fat-loaded equivalent of a double cheeseburger and fries; the stressedout women burned 104 fewer calories. “If a woman had a stressful day at work every day and ate a meal like this, she could easily gain seven to 11 pounds in a year,” says study author Jan Kiecolt-Glaser, a professor of psychiatry and psychology and director of the university’s Institute for Behavioral Medicine. Exercise, too, can help combat stressrelated illness. But Storoni attests that not all exercise is created equal. One recent study in the Journal of Physiology found that in animals daily moderate exercise (the equivalent of a light jog) can boost levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a critical brain protein diminished by stress and sleep depri-

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Stress-Proofing Our Mindset

While diet and exercise can buffer our body from the impacts of chronic stress, a shift in mindset can keep it from becoming chronic in the first place, says Greenberg.“The goal is not to eliminate stress, but to put it in its place—to use its energizing and motivating aspects to take care of what needs to be done, and then relax,” and stop paying attention to it. This, she says, requires being mindful of what’s happening in the present moment. “When you feel your heart racing at the sight of another urgent demand at home or work, stop what you are doing, take a deep breath and tune into what’s happening in your body,” advises Greenberg. She notes that when the highly reactive amygdala “hijacks the brain”, we often say and do things in the heat of the moment that we later regret. Waiting just a moment (like counting to 10) allows the more rational part of our brain (the prefrontal cortex) to kick in. “It allows

People with a stress-hardy mindset may temper stress as an “excite-and-delight” challenge in adventurous situations. Others “tendand-befriend”, reaching out to help and comfort in times of tragedy. Studies show that when participants are told, “You’re the kind of person whose performance improves under pressure,” it does—by as much as one-third. ~Harvard Medical School Healthbeat

you to go from panic to, ‘I’ve got this.’” Greenberg observes that we often feel most stressed when we feel out of control. When faced with a daunting task, it may help to make a list of the things we have control over and a list of the things we can’t control—then make a plan to act on the manageable one and let the others go. “Mindfulness is also about keeping our self-judging and ruminating mind at bay, which may keep repeating, ‘I’m not doing enough,’” she says. “Realize that you do not have to listen to every thought that comes into your head. Ask yourself, ‘What is the most important thing for me to focus on right now?’” Greenberg also says it’s important to aim to broaden and brighten our view in tough times, explaining, “Feeling stress biases your brain to think in terms of avoiding threat and loss, rather than what you can gain or learn from the situation.” Start by jotting down three ways this challenging situation may be beneficial in the long run; also make a list of things and people we are grateful for, she suggests. “Practicing gratitude helps you realize that you have a choice about what to focus your attention on and you don’t have to let stressors take all the joy out of life,” according to Greenberg. As an added bonus, “You’re less likely to take your stress out on loved ones when you think about what they mean to you and how they have helped you,” she says. Lisa Marshall is a freelance health writer in Boulder, CO. Connect at LisaAnnMarshall.com.

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vation, significantly more than weight training or intense exercise. On the flip side, excess strenuous exercise (laps around the track or an intense gym workout) can boost inflammation, whither brain cells, and aggravate the physical impacts of stress, says Storoni. “If you want to exercise to relieve the stress you just experienced, keep it at low intensity,” counsels Storoni. If possible, work out in the morning, as it can boost melatonin levels at night, helping you get to sleep faster, she notes.

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STRESS IS A CHOICE

Choose Wisely to Increase Positive Life Experience by Greg Madden

“It is not stress that kills us, it is our reaction to it. ~ Hans Selye, author of the Stress of Life

f we are overly stressed and anxious, why is that? Why did we choose stress? According to the Law of Attraction, whatever we focus on, we get more of. That includes our levels of stress. We do, however, have the power to choose to dismiss it immediately and return our bodies to a state of healthy, flourishing ease. Stress—along with chronic stress, tension and anxiety—is serious and can prove fatal for some. This challenging energy locks us into fight-or-flight mode, freezing us out of the present moment where we control our emotional state, which then affects our health. If we are not in the now, we can’t use our brain to focus on what is important in the moment; we are lost in the past or the present, where it is impossible to change course. When this becomes habitual, stress may become a chronic illness. The symptoms of stress that can affect our health are easy to identify once we are familiar with how our individual bodies deal

or don’t deal with it. Stress and anxiety are closely connected, and often painfully so. Typically it starts with something that begins outside of us—something we witness or experience—and then the emotion related to the incident implants itself within our energy field or mind. We then feed it with fear and worry until it explodes, often with devastating results. We need to figure out what stresses us out the most as it is different for everyone. Is it family, children, a work or personal relationship, a work project, a lack of a job, struggling to make ends meet, or something else? For some, it is a stew of all of these things, all the time; for others, it happens occasionally. Signs of stress can be small, whether it is a gray hair or two, more wrinkles and worry lines, skin rashes or acne, the occasional shortness of breath, or losing patience quickly. Maybe it is feeling tired yet still being unable get a good night’s sleep, or being sick frequently. Or it can be tension headaches, heart irregularities, uncomfortable digestive issues, body tension, pain, depression, or decreased sexual ability or desire. Time management can also become a big issue; the lack of it can create a stressful environment. We need to look at our priorities and the environment we’ve created. It is important to choose wisely because we can only steal from our health for so long without consequences. There is no specific destination when stress enters the body. After dancing with the brain through thoughts, it will infiltrate and attach itself to many of our organs or systems until we understand why we are feeling this way and do something to combat it. The hormonal system, nervous system, heart, intestines, circulation and stomach are all prime targets for stress. And the whole body suffers with reduced energy and immunity. If we don’t respond to early warning signs, the body will start sending clearer messages to us until we alleviate it or there is a health-related event.

“The truth is that stress doesn’t come from your boss, your kids, your spouse, traffic jams, health challenges or other circumstances. It comes from your thoughts about these circumstances.” ~ Andrew Bernstein, author of the Myth of Stress

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Interestingly, jellyfish, sea urchins and starfish have zero stress; they also do not have brains. Maybe there is a connection there. We need to disconnect from thoughts that lead to increased stressful energy. Choose to release this toxic poison. The good news is that as horrible as stress is to ingest, it is not difficult or expensive to remove.

Destress the Distress There is more good news when it comes to working with internal distress; it is possible to set up a personal alert system to enable us to be keenly aware when we are getting into dangerous health zones. When we experience these personal alerts, there are simple non-prescription alternatives available that will return the body back into ease and prevent further “dis-ease”. Our bodies speak to us whether we are listening or not. Stress can be our teacher by alerting us to what is working in our lives or what needs our attention and correction. Instead of being stressed out, let’s learn how to better get the stress out. • Mindfully center by taking deep breaths, decompress to let pent-up steam out and choose not to be a “pressure cooker” • Add more peace and calm with a meditation experience • Drink the purest water and find a diet that resonates • Focus on positive thoughts and language as this is the navigation system to ultimate health • Choose a schedule and time where relaxation and decompression with loved ones or even alone is possible, whether it is a long weekend away or planning a vacation Is there such a thing as good stress? Yes, there is. Psychologists refer to good stress as “Eustress”, or the stress we feel when elated. This energy keeps us enjoying life and being vibrant. Always choose Eustress and enjoy the flow of endorphins. Stress can be both an ally and an enemy. Greg Madden is the director of the Xenia Wellness Center in Hunter, NY. He is a certified biontologist and has studied quantum medicine and tui-na medical massage. Connect at 508-579-7648, IllWellMadden@gmail.com or Biontology.com. Natural Living Directory 2018

Moving from Anxiety to Peace The Ultimate Guide to Calm a Stressful Mind by Diane Bahr-Groth

ven before our day begins, our sleepy minds may be flooded with worrisome, negative thoughts, causing us to respond to daily life with feelings of anxiety, stress and fear. Our lives are full. Everyone is so rushed and busy. We live in a fast-paced environment in an age of high-speed technology filled with continuous pressure and perpetual change. Concerns about children, loved ones, education, health, work, finances, climate change and world issues can cause us to feel helpless and overwhelmed, often causing sleepless nights. In today’s stressful world, we may find ourselves and loved ones challenged to create a feeling of safety and security. Modalities such as hypnosis and Thought Field Therapy (TFT) are natural, effective relaxation techniques to organically develop a real sense of relief and peace for adults and children alike. Hypnosis is widely recognized by researchers and the medical field as a safe, natural and enjoyable state of deep physical and emotional relaxation. It can easily be used as an effective tool for everything from anxiety and stress reduction to self-esteem and behavior modification. Developed by Dr. Roger Callahan, a clinical psychologist, TFT is a protocol of healing that works with the meridian system, or the body’s energy system. By stimulating specific points on the body, it can produce quick, relaxing results to those suffering from issues such as fears, phobias, anxiety and stress. Each technique can help reduce the intensity of fear, stress, anger, loss and grief as well as negative thoughts, feelings and emotions related to perceived or real-life events. 22

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

Callahan began exploring alternative therapies in the early 1980s as a faster and better way to help those suffering from emotional distress. After years of research, he developed TFT, a field of energy psychology. This process integrates the sciences of acupuncture, the meridian system and applied kinesiology with the associated emotional problem in order to reduce and eliminate negative emotional and physical responses. The procedure is safe, drug-free and noninvasive. While stimulating specific meridian points in a precise order and thinking about the upsetting issue, we utilize the power of the body’s own bio-energy system to release the unwanted negative response. The National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices has added TFT as an effective practice for improving personal resilience/self-concept and self-regulation as well as reducing phobia, panic and generalized anxiety, and trauma -and stressor-related disorders and symptoms.

Hypnosis Hypnosis may be as old as mankind itself. It can help us create desired physical and emotional change, achieve positive results, and implement self-healing where traditional medicine has often failed. Today, hypnosis is used in even conventional medical settings for conditions ranging from arthritis to childbirth to stress reduction. Major hospitals across the U.S. are also using hypnosis to speed surgical recovery, heal fractures faster, assist in reducing pain and improve healing of burns. It can help to alleviate negative thoughts, feelings and beliefs as well as eliminate the emotional blockages preventing us from accomplishing personal goals. Weight loss, smoking cessation, sleep issues, success, memory, fear, motivation and healing are commonly helped with hypnosis. It can naturally help people overcome the mental or emo tional obstacles preventing us from living life to its fullest as it empowers us to set and accomplish goals. It helps to focus the mind’s power of concentration to enhance the medicine of the mind, thereby helping us to experience an enjoyable sense of peace and well-being. Stress, fear, and emotional and physical traumas may exhaust a person’s physical and emotional energy as well as cause a multitude of other issues. Western medicine is only now beginning to understand that health and illness may be directly related to our emotional state of inner harmony and balance. Releasing negative thoughts and emotions—and solidifying the positive changes— may help unlock the natural power of the body and mind, and help us to feel happier, healthier and able to rediscover the natural joy of life. Diane Bahr-Groth, CH, TFT-Adv, director of Mind-Body Transformation Hypnosis Center in Stamford, has over 26 years of experience in mind-body therapy. She is a registered consulting hypnotist and a member of the National Guild of Hypnotists. She is certified in other modalities, such as the Virtual Gastric Band Hypnosis Program, Thought Field Therapy and more. Connect at 203-595-0110 or MindBodyTransformation.com. See ads, pages 79 and 91.

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ore Americans than ever before are seeking the benefits of meditation, which notably improves mental, physical and spiritual health. Choosing from its many styles and traditions can be daunting for a new meditator, as is figuring out how to incorporate such a practice into a busy life.

Universal Appeal “Meditation is for people of all spiritual backgrounds. As a tool to develop awareness, it can enhance what you already believe and practice,” assures Diana Lang, the Los Angeles author of Opening to Meditation: A Gentle, Guided Approach and a spiritual counselor who has taught meditation for 37 years. For Jackie Trottmann, a Christian author from St. Louis, Missouri, there is no contradiction between a meditation practice and her faith; rather, they complement one another. For her, “Prayer is like talking to God, whereas meditation is listening to God. Before I came to meditation, I had been doing all the talking.” She came to meditation during a trying period working in sales and marketing. “When a friend gave me a meditation CD, I popped it in after a stressful conference call and felt instantly calmed. Ten years later, meditation has gone beyond quieting the mind; it’s sunk into my heart and spirit,” says Trottmann, who went on to publish her own CDs at GuidedChristianMeditation.com. “I came to meditation tired of habitual suffering and stress, and wanting to be happier,” says Bill Scheinman, a coach in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), which he refers to as “mindfulness practice without the Buddhist jargon.” The Oakland, California, instructor has taught mindfulness in settings ranging from corporations to prisons, drawing from a range of meditative disciplines and 23 years of intensive practice.

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Begin Modestly “Millions are seeking more mindfulness through meditation, but don’t know how to go about it,” says Sean Fargo, a Berkeley, California, meditation instructor and former Buddhist monk. “The key is to take baby steps, like going to the gym for the first time. Start by practicing a few minutes a day; just pay attention to something such as the sensations of breathing, without judgment.” “Having taught meditation to tens of thousands of people, I would say the most common issue is that beginning meditators don’t think they’re doing it right. It’s important not to judge yourself or have loaded expectations about the experience,” notes Lang. She suggests starting wherever we are right now, adding, “Whatever book, class or teacher you first stumble upon is a clue.” But that doesn’t call for rigidly adhering to a particular type of meditation forever.

Assess Benefits “Shop around and try different things, but at some point, you will begin to discover what works for you,” advises Scheinman. In trying to decide which meditation practice is right for us, “Go with what feels juicy,” says Fargo, who founded MindfulnessExercises.com, offering 1,500 free mindfulness meditations, worksheets and talks. “You’re more likely to do what feels alive and enlivening.” The act of meditating can be uncomfortable, but the challenges are part of its power. Scheinman remarks. “If you establish a daily practice, eventually, you will become more clear-headed, kinder and happier. That’s how you know your practice is working—not how you feel during meditation itself.” Consistency is key. It’s not effective to only meditate when you feel good, he says.

Overview of Options Mindfulness practices go by many names, from vipassana to MBSR, and can be done sitting or walking, but all are focused on cultivating moment-to-moment awareness. “Mindfulness is about being aware: deliberately paying attention to body sensations, thoughts and emotions. Focused attention is on the body, heart and mind,” explains Scheinman. Guided visualization differs from most forms of meditation in that the meditator is intentionally creating a mental image, typically one of a peaceful, beautiful place. Typically, the goal of a guided visualization is deep relaxation and stress reduction. Mantra meditations involve continuous repetition of a word, phrase or sound, drawing spiritual power from the sound’s vibration, as well as its meaning. Many mantras are uttered in a tradition’s native language, such as shanti, meaning peace in Sanskrit. Teachers like Lang prefer to use mantras in English that meditators can more easily grasp, such as, “Love is the way.” Breathing meditation. Meditation experts say our everpresent breath is a sound foundation for a meditation practice, as well as an easy place to start. “Tapping into the power of our breath is vital; it cleanses our system,” says Trottmann. Connect with April Thompson, in Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com.

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by Teresa Reyes Castillo and Anna Huff

hen we look up natural stress relief, the suggestions are usually to take a bath, go for a walk, meditate or care for ourselves. There is information on changing our negative thoughts to positive ones. While these can all be helpful, what we give less attention to is self-love. Oftentimes, we think negatively of this phrase. Many of us seem to associate self-love with narcissism, a very separate concept. Self-love involves accepting ourselves as we are, including the good, the bad, the ugly and the spectacular. Every last piece of the inner self deserves our love, even the pieces we tuck away in the corner, hoping no one will see our shame, anger, sadness or other emotions. We should not be frightened; once in practice, self-love can be powerful. Knowing ourselves is an initial step to self-love. It includes both knowledge and acceptance by understanding who we are as a person and accepting our many different layers. Those layers include what is genuinely us and what is not, such as beliefs, values and the internal compass that makes up who we genuinely are. The latter may be different from what we were taught. We grow up in a world learning the ways of the people before us. We learn the values and beliefs of our parents, friends

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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and other significant people in our lives; but our growth process does not stop there. As we mature, we are then asked to examine how much those beliefs, values and characteristics are really us. Do these represent us or are we different in some ways? How much is still waiting to be explored? Accepting our own peculiarities and allowing ourselves to be different from our concept of “normal” can lead to selfacceptance. Self-acceptance is the next step toward self-love; it is allowing permission to be and accept who we are. This is a series of steps to meet, get to know, embrace and love ourselves. Self-love can be a difficult concept to understand and, even more so, to practice. It is an unconditional love for oneself, no matter the circumstances. Often love is experienced as conditional. Society, in many ways, teaches us of the conditionality. We learn to search for “loving” or “unloving” statements, behaviors and feelings from ourselves and from others. For example, when we open a door for someone, this act is considered “good”, translating to a sense of worthiness and love. On the other hand, closing the door on someone is considered “bad”, giving off a sense of unworthiness and lack of love. Conditional love, taught for generations through the

lacking practice of self-love, evokes shame and self-loathing. These experiences deter us from being our genuine selves and from providing ourselves with the love we truly need, desire and deserve. Moreover, people have attempted to gain love, as in the examples above, through their external environment. This does not fill the void needing to be filled with self-love; it instead provokes feelings of self-criticism and lowered worth. Another common example would be a person who desires their intimate relationship to provide them with the love they have not learned to self-provide. Often times, a person looking for external love and validation is left feeling unsatisfied by their partner. Their partner cannot provide what they need to self-fulfill. This is true of most things. We are taught to look externally for love, validation, approval and stability when we really need to be looking for these within ourselves. The search for these external attributes can lead to conflict in relationships and general unhappiness. This brings back the topic of allowing selflove. Maybe it is time to start.

We do not need someone outside of us to fulfill our needs. If we accept and allow self-love, then we can allow ourselves to love someone else. It allows us to fulfill our own internal needs and truly engage with another person. We can have healthier relationships when we understand what our needs are and learn to self-fulfill what no one else can fill for us. The concept of self-love has been perverted into the belief that self-love is unhealthy and narcissistic. The concept of narcissism was established through the image of Narcissus in Greek mythology. Narcissus was a man who obsessed over his own reflection and died staring at himself. This can be applied to the concept of narcissism, which refers to a shallow, superficial and grandiose sense of self. Narcissism is a defense mechanism developed as a way to ward off the world. Typically, this is based on early childhood emotional wounds experienced in relationship with the child’s primary attachment. Narcissism is a deeply held emotional wound. The individual did not receive the love needed to understand and provide genuine self-love.

The aggressiveness and dominant tendencies are their way of hiding their inner, severely wounded child. Imagine an infant struggling to survive in an adult body. The survival is the armor which keeps everyone away, repelling some and attracting others. The individual who presents with narcissism needs nothing more and less than what the rest of us need: genuine self-love. Self-love allows us to then experience true love from others. Self-love goes deeper than the transient nature of conditional love. It is undivided and steadfast. It is time we stop this dangerous misconception that self-love and narcissism are the same. We are each worthy of self-love and can love ourselves without being pathological. Teresa Reyes Castillo, PhD, and Anna Huff, PhD, are licensed psychologists and owners of Being Centered: Psychological Services. Being Centered provides psychotherapy including individual, couples and uncoupling and psychological testing. Connect at 203-614-1089, Info@Being-Centered.com and Being-Centered.com. See ad, page 12.

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The Art of Gentleness

Be Gentle with This Life and It Will Be Gentle with You

by Nora Jaya Malfettone

here is a rhythm within us that is in harmony with nature. When we listen to it—and honor it—we are at peace with ourselves and this life. Approaching life with gentleness rewards us with gentleness in return.

“Adopt the pace of nature; her secret is patience.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson For many years, our society has led us to believe that this life is to be feared and, with that fear, we should lead. We are in a time of great comparison, competition, distrust and power feeding. We’re also in a time of great potential and aware-

ness. When we tap into our innocence, self-acceptance, trust and compassion for ourselves, we learn that we can eliminate suffering in our personal lives and also soften pain in others. Many have been taught to push, force and approach experiences with aggression. Sometimes this aggression isn’t so much on the surface, but rather a deep internal voice of self-judgment and impatience. This is unnecessary; it actually depletes us of life-force energy and joy. What some don’t realize is that we are a part of a network that requires our participation as an extension of gentleness for an outcome of ease. This life is available and willing to honor what we ask when we simply reciprocate with trust. Gentleness is life-giving. Aggression is life-depleting.

What is available for us in any given moment is what life is delivering us. Presence is a consistent practice that illuminates the moment and refocuses our mind. Impatience is the energy of fixating on desiring to propel ourselves from the current moment to the next, or to change the current moment. If we are unsatisfied or unaccepting of the moment, then we also carry the energy of rejection toward what life is delivering to us and our own life-force energy. Every moment is sacred; when we perceive life this way, we are delivered sacredness. Our bodies and existence are manifests of creation and, therefore, an aspect of life. When we practice self-love and honor our bodies as sacred, we are also communicating this to all aspects of life. To be gentle with ourselves is to accept this life. To trust ourselves is to trust this life. To love ourselves is to love this life. What this delivers us is the ability to thrive rather than endure our existence.

Breathing and Sensory Experience Our breath is something that we have immediate access to that brings us back to the present moment and floods life-force energy back into our system. It is a tool that is our conscious gateway to feeling connected to the moment, to all of life and to our higher selves. If we are breathing consistently, then we are on the path of practicing gentleness and reciprocity with life. We must embody the sense of safety to connect us to gentleness; breath grounds us to that feeling of safety. Our five senses of hearing, touch, vision, taste and smell are the gateway for us

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to trust this moment. To connect with all of our senses grounds us to the elements and our body. With focus in conjunction with our breath, our senses are re-awakened. Ayurveda teaches that every sense is associated with an element, and that our body is comprised of the same elements of all matter. Hearing is to space as touch is to air, fire to vision, taste to water and smell to earth. When we focus on appreciating all individual senses, then we in turn appreciate the composition of our bodies and all of matter. We communicate love to all of life. If we practice the idea that this life is an intellectual “organism” and needs the same requirements of love and acceptance as we do, then we can unveil how beautiful this existence can be. The art of gentleness is a practice that requires us to pay attention and acknowledge every elemental expression as an intellectual consciousness that is responding to us. The dance of giving and receiving with life is a playful interaction that has us participating rather that being stagnant and feeling helpless.

Every single situation is most rewarding when we meet it with grace and patience. We are only as powerful as we are present. We have a choice in what we wish to believe. We must re-empower the awareness of the effects of our beliefs and focus of our own free will. Our perception is simply based on what we believe to be true. When we believe this life is to be trusted, that we can feel safe, that we are unconditionally loved by the space around us, that we are heard, and that we can approach every moment with grace and gentleness, that is what our reality becomes. The energy we embody is exactly what we receive. We must choose the path that is the most liberating, life-giving and life-preserving for us. The art of gentleness is to perceive that everything in this life is deserving of being appreciated and valued equally. Everything is delicate, innocent and responsive of our energy and sensitivity, just as a child. Approach all things as we would our altar; therein is a magical, visceral awareness of the sacredness of every single moment.

Gratitude, Grace and Gentleness by Nora Jaya Malfettone

ratitude is a powerful tool in practicing the art of gentleness; it is often spoken of in many, if not all, spiritual practices. To embody gratitude is an energy that can dissolve the deepest wounds. It can shine light and wisdom onto the darkest and seemingly chaotic experiences. It opens us up to clarity to receive the lessons this life has to offer. Gratitude is a graceful pulse that lives with gentleness. It reminds us that we have a choice in our perspective; we have a choice of whether our experience is life-giving or depleting. When we are grateful for every moment, this reminds us that every moment is sacred. The perception of sacredness gives us a powerful relationship with the consciousness within and around us. The spirit of this life is available for us, but we must honor it to receive its grace. There is an exchange of energy, a conversation, a dance of love that is reciprocated. When we honor these moments—whether it is in our body, our environment or other aspects of this life—we realize and receive all that is available for us. If there is an underlying tone of dissatisfaction in everything we are doing, then what we receive will be unsatisfying. When we open up to treating this life as a soul—a spirit that is deserving and in need of compassion, attention and unconditional love—we then are reflected with self-care and self-love. Our external environment is a reflection of our internal environment. We cannot love and accept ourselves—and this life completely—by favoring one environment over the other. We are whole when we love, cherish and honor both equally. “We need to understand that the cosmic universe is auspicious and nurturing in order to be able to access its blessings,” Yogini Shambhavi Chopra said. When we understand this relationship, then it is simple and easy to be grateful. We connect with the certainty that this life is here to support and fulfill our needs.

Leading with gentleness is the most powerful approach to this life. It opens up an abundance of benefits. We become liberated to be and express who we are with absence of fear and distrust. We preserve energy. We open ourselves to receiving peace because our outlook is peaceful. We inspire others. We practice self-love. We express more love to others. We suffer less. We heal. Be gentle with this life, and this life will be gentle with you. Nora Jaya Malfettone is a certified Kripalu yoga teacher, Jikiden Reiki teacher, Egyptian High Alchemist, sound healer, spiritual counselor, classically trained vocalist and certified personal trainer. In addition to seeing private clients for healing and spiritual counseling at Jiiva Wellness and Yoga for Everybody, she leads sound healing, women’s groups and Egyptian High Alchemy events. Connect at 203-998-5292, Jaya@NoraJaya.com or NoraJaya.com. See ad, page 53.

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inspiration

SELF-LOVE by Charlie Chaplin

is setting the intention to provide you with a moment of mindfulness and peace by viewing this message. When we all send the feelings and energy vibrations outward we will make this a more peaceful and mindful world. The gift of love The gift of peace The gift of positive intention May all these be yours during the coming year.

Today, I know, this is AUTHENTICITY. As I began to love myself, I understood how much it can offend somebody as I try to force my desires on this person, even though I knew the time was not right and the person was not ready for it, and even though this person was me. Today I call it RESPECT. As I began to love myself, I stopped craving for a different life, and I could see that everything that surrounded me was inviting me to grow. Today I call it MATURITY. As I began to love myself, I understood that at any circumstance, I am in the right place at the right time, and everything happens at the exactly right moment. So I could be calm. Today I call it SELF-CONFIDENCE. As I began to love myself, I quit stealing my own time, and I stopped designing huge projects for the future. Today, I only do what brings me joy and happiness, things I love to do and that make my heart cheer, and I do them in my own way and in my own rhythm.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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Today I call it SIMPLICITY. As I began to love myself, I freed myself of anything that is no good for my healthâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;food, people, things, situations and everything that drew me down and away from myself. At first I called this attitude a healthy egoism. Today I know it is LOVE OF ONESELF. As I began to love myself, I quit trying to always be right, and ever since, I was wrong less of the time. Today I discovered that is MODESTY. As I began to love myself, I refused to go on living in the past and worrying about the future. Now, I only live for the moment, where everything is happening. Today I live each day, day by day, and I call it FULFILLMENT. As I began to love myself, I recognized that my mind can disturb me and it can make me sick. But as I connected it to my heart, my mind became a valuable ally. Today I call this connection WISDOM OF THE HEART. We no longer need to fear arguments, confrontations or any kind of problems with ourselves or others. Even stars collide, and out of their crashing new worlds are born. Today I know that is LIFE. Chaplinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s World museum, in Switzerland, opened in 2016 (ChaplinsWorld.com/en).

Igor Brisker/Shutterstock.com

Natural Awakenings

s I began to love myself, I found that anguish and emotional suffering are only warning signs that I was living against my own truth.

Ask for Help by Eilis Philpott

t is a common stereotype that women refuse to seek help. However, the truth is that finding it hard to ask for help is not just a challenge for women, but for many men as well. It’s also true that it seems many women have some additional baggage to clear in relation to this topic. This is because culturally women have been taught from an early age that their role is to be the caregiver and nurturer of the family, often at the cost of their individuality. We don't have to go too far back in history to see that women were considered second-class citizens without any individual rights; asking for help probably was not even in the realm of conscious awareness for most women of a not so distant era. There have been recent studies in the field of Epigenetics that show many lifetimes of trauma and belief systems are passed

down through the generations in the DNA of each individual. From that we can deduce that how women are treated and expect to be treated may in fact be transferred down through generations on a cellular and even an energetic level. The question can be taken even further: why do women find it so hard to receive? Why do women feel it’s selfish for their needs to be met? Why do women feel it is part of their “job” to put everyone else first? The answers to these questions can be traced to societal and generational expectations as stated above, but also can be tied to the individual experiences of each woman in her own life. What if asking for help is perceived as making yourself vulnerable? How do you allow yourself to trust someone else when you have learned through past experience that when you make yourself vulnerable and/or trust someone else, you may be hurt? Women are not doomed to never be able to ask for their needs to be met, to never put themselves first on their list, to never learn how to love and nurture themselves. If there is a struggle with these concepts, give yourself permission. Ask for help, ask for guidance or release to clear what is getting in the way, and remind yourself that you cannot give from an empty vessel. You are worth it! Dr. Eilis Philpott is the owner of Soul Healing Journey, LLC and has been a healing practitioner for over 20 years. For more information about her services, events and trainings, visit SoulHealingJourney.com. Connect at 203-767-5954 or Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com. See ad, page 26.

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Treat Yourself like a Small Child Chronic illness may trigger shame. Self-blaming thoughts like “You can barely walk up a flight of steps? What’s wrong with you?” or, “Maybe this is all in your head after all” can cause intense emotional pain, which is definitely not conducive to the rest you require. The next time you find yourself thinking self-blaming thoughts, try imagining yourself as a small child. Cuddle the child the way a parent would. Talk to yourself as you would talk to that child if he or she were sick or frightened: “Oh, honey, I know this is hard. You are being so brave. It’s okay. I’m here.” Learning to care for yourself with kindness will allow you to manage your illness with less suffering.

Manage the Mind During Chronic Illness

Manage Expectations

by Brooke Adams Law

Count Your Blessings

early half of all adults in the U.S. experience—a staggering 112 million—suffer from chronic illness, according to a 2012 survey. All illness is worsened by stress, and having a chronic illness is inherently stressful. On top of being physically sick, the process of undergoing medical tests, shuttling to appointments, and completing insurance paperwork can all take a toll. Then there are the stresses that arise in your own mind. You may catastrophize about the worst-case scenario. You may fear for your family’s future. You may wonder why this is happening to you at all. Your mind can truly be your own worst enemy. How, then, can you manage your mind to better serve you in managing your illness? The following techniques, implemented regularly, can help to still the mind and create a space for better mental and physical health.

Release the ‘Should’ In his book, The Myth of Stress, Andrew Bernstein teaches the reader his ActivInsight process for releasing stressful thoughts. All stress, he contends, stems from thinking that things should be different than they are. Your “should” thoughts may include, “I shouldn’t feel so tired,” “This shouldn’t be happening to me,” or “Everyday activities shouldn’t be this hard.” Bernstein teaches the reader to take the opposite statement – for example, “I should feel so tired,” and then come up with examples that prove it to be true. Proofs might include: “Actually, I should feel tired, because I am sick.” “I should feel tired, because this morning I cleaned the kitchen and went for a walk.” “I should feel tired, because I didn’t sleep well last night.” “I should feel tired, because I do.” When you let go of your resistance—when you accept that it doesn’t matter whether you should feel tired because you simply do feel tired—you release a tremendous amount of energy. That energy can be put instead toward taking good care of yourself. 32

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

During a good day, or a good week, it’s easy to lose sight of your physical limitations. You might begin to think, “Maybe this is all over! Maybe I’ve finally got this under control!” This is setting yourself up for failure. When you have a good day, try thinking: “I am so grateful that I’m having a good day.” Don’t expect necessarily to have a good day tomorrow. Instead, appreciate the good day today. Most research conducted to date associates gratitude with an enhanced sense of personal well-being. During an especially difficult experience—a negative test result, a doctor’s visit that brings bad news, a particularly tough storm of symptoms—consciously choose to make a list of everything for which you’re grateful. Family, friends, a comfortable home, access to healthy food and quality medical care, the strength to go for a walk, your Netflix subscription—appreciate the many blessings you do enjoy, even when good health is not among them.

Go Wordless Dr. Martha Beck, a renowned social scientist and life coach, describes the concept of Wordlessness in her book Finding Your Way in a Wild New World. She defines Wordlessness as, “shift[ing] consciousness out of the verbal part of the brain and into the more creative, intuitive, and sensory brain regions.” When your symptoms act up and your brain starts screaming like a crazed monkey that you are never going to feel better, that you are going to be sick for the rest of your life, that you are a drain on society, practice Wordlessness. Release the resistance to your symptoms and, instead, allow yourself to fully experience them. Lie down and allow the discomfort to wash over you. Notice the exact sensations you’re feeling. Experiencing the pain or fatigue Wordlessly, instead of creating a frenzied loop of thoughts, will allow your body to rest more easily. Using these techniques every day can open up the mental space to allow you to manage your illness instead of only suffering from it. Brooke Adams Law is a freelance health writer living in Stratford, Connecticut. Her Protect Your Energy online course helps adults master the thoughts that cause them stress. Connect at BrookeAdamsLaw.com.

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NATURAL LIVING DIRECTORY 2018 Throughout the year, Natural Awakenings serves the many communities of Western Connecticut by offering articles and opportunities for inspiration, education and connections. This year we are pleased to once again offer the region a reference guide featuring a wealth of content as well as showcasing the offerings of more than 200 businesses and practitioners waiting to help our readers achieve their personal goals in 2018. This year’s Natural Living Directory includes profiles and listings of local wellness businesses as well as a Natural Living Glossary to help readers learn more about terminology which may be new. We hope the people and products in these pages—and in later issues during the year—support your efforts to live a happier, healthier life in 2018!

NATURAL LIVING DIRECTORY 2018 INDEX Wellness Profiles 35-60

Directory Listings 62-79

Glossary of Terms 63-76

PROFILES

(in order of appearance)

LISTINGS Page 62 Acupuncture • Alexander Technique Apothecary • Biofeedback Breast Thermography Page 63 Cancer Coach • Chiropractic Page 64 Chiropractic • Clairvoyant • Coaching Collaborative Services • Colonics Corporate Training • Craniosacral Therapy Crystals • Divorce Support Page 65 Education Page 66 Energy Healing Page 67 Energy Healing • Feng Shui Functional Medicine • Healing Center Health & Wellness • Health Coach Page 68 Herbalism • Holistic Dentist Holistic Education Page 69 Holistic Healing • Holistic Life Coaching Holistic Nurse Practitioner Hypnosis • Integrative Medicine Physician Integrative Natural Medicine

• Whole-Body Medicine LLC

• Shalva Clinic/Ellen Lewis, ND

• Kure Spa & Wellness Center

• Unity Center of Norwalk

• Soul Synergy Wellness Center

• Mind-Body Transformation Center

• Healthful Direction

• Embody the Sacred

• SOPHIA Natural Health Center – Thermography Services

• Possibilities Farm

• Saltana Cave

• Osteopathic Wellness Center

• Jennifer Hernandez, MAT

• Kara Acupuncture & Wellness

• Associates in Family Chiropractic & Natural Health Care, PC

• Wellness Institute

• Being Centered: Psychological Services PLLC

• Victoria Shaw, PhD

• The Institute of Sustainable Nutrition 53

• The Graduate Institute

• SOPHIA Natural Health Center

• Barefoot Living Arts

• Soul Healing Journey LLC

• Eyecare Associates, PC

• MindBody Mastery LLC

• The Center for Holistic Dentistry/ David L. Lerner, DDS

• Illuminated Wellness

Page 75 Psychotherapy • Rebirthing • Reiki

• Valley Spirit Cooperative & Wellness Center

• Nancy S. Scherlong

Page 76 Reiki • Shamanic Practitioner Somatic Experiencing

• Natural Health & Wellness Center

• Mary Gilbertson Wellness

• Corsello Clinic of Chiropractic

• Ingels Family Health

• Hemp*Health*Direct 42 • Ingels Family Health/ Jaquel Patterson, ND, MBA

• Nora Jaya Healing Arts

• Hudson Valley Natural Health

• Whole-Body Dentistry

• Salt of the Earth Spa45

• Enlightenment Center/Sarah Rotella 51

• Twin Star Herbal Education & Community Apothecary

• Workspace Education

• Angelic Healing Center

• Shalva Clinic/Nadia Noori, ND

• Roseann Capanna-Hodge & Associates

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Page 70 Inspirational Boutique Integrative Optometry Intuitive Consultant • Jewelry Jikiden Reiki • Juicing Lyme & Coinfections Massage & Bodywork • Meditation Page 72 Medium • Naturopathic Physician Page 73 Naturopathic Physician • Neurofeedback Nutrition • Osteopathic Physician Page 74 Pain Relief • Past Life Regression Personal Training Professional Development • Psychic Psychologist • Psychotherapy

Page 77 Tai Chi/Qi Gong • Thermography Transformative Healing Page 78 Transformative Healing Vibrational Technology • Wellness Center Page 79 Wellness Center • Wellness Products • Yoga

BUILD YOUR WELLNESS DREAM TEAM These practitioners and businesses are ready to help you achieve your health and wellness goals in 2018.

wellness profiles

Whole-Body Medicine LLC

at The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center Adam Breiner, ND, Director David Brady, ND, CCN Elena Sokolova, MD, ND David Johnston, DO 501 Kings Hwy East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 Info@WholeBodyMed.com • WholeBodyMed.com Practice summary/ services offered: We offer an individualized, integrative, holistic approach for treating a wide range of conditions. We offer hyperbaric oxygen therapy, neurofeedback, osteopathic medicine, cranial osteopathy, intravenous nutrition and chelation therapy, Chinese medicine, Japanese Reiki, homeopathy, energy medicine, pulsed magnetic field therapy (PEMF), PRP and stem cell, integrative medicine, naturopathic medicine, colon hydrotherapy, detoxification, allergy desensitization, and healthy aging services. How does your work differ from others in your profession? Our caring physicians—Drs. Adam Breiner, David Brady, David Johnston and Elena Sokolova—each bring a unique set of skills for diagnosing and treating their patients. The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center also offers holistic dentistry and The NeuroEdge Brain Performance Center. What should a patient expect from working with you? Our philosophy of healing as integrative physicians is to seek to remove the obstacles to a cure. We focus on Lyme disease, brain trauma, ADD/ADHD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, female concerns, thyroid and adrenal issues, fibromyalgia, gastrointestinal concerns, weight loss, healthy aging, immune disorders, toxicities, sports injuries, and athletic performance enhancement. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? We combine state-of-the-art science with centuries-old healing modalities to correct underlying imbalances and address issues which may interfere with the body’s ability to heal itself. See ad, page 2.

Kure Spa & Wellness Center 430 Main Ave, 2nd Level, Norwalk 203-857-1500 KureSpa@optimum.net Kure-Spa.com

Practice summary/ services offered: Kure Spa offers massage, PEMF therapy, Vibrosaun, organic juice bar, nutritional consulting, diagnostic imaging, fascia integration and monthly health/wellness presentations. What drew you to this profession? The struggle with my own health issues as Western medicine did not help me with my chronic health issues. I turned to alternative therapies and restored my health. I’m feeling better than I did 10 years ago. How does your work differ from others in your profession? We combine unique therapies for even greater results, such as Vibrosaun with massage or PEMF therapy or fascia work. Vibrosaun, a treatment combining whole body vibration and sauna heat, helps people with insomnia, muscle aches, joint pain, depression, edema, high blood pressure, relaxation and overall bodily function. What should a client or patient expect from working with you? They will feel like they are on a mini-vacation the moment they walk through our door. Our treatments are very effective, and our staff is caring and experienced. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? At KureSPA & Wellness Center, it is our sincere belief that the path to optimum health requires a conscientious effort on each individual’s part to detox; relax and regenerate and re-nourish mind, body and spirit. We provide a multi-faceted approach in transforming people’s health and wellness using restorative, holistic and cutting-edge therapies in an exceptionally peaceful, nurturing and healing environment. See ad, page 57.

Love all, trust a few, do wrong to none. ~William Shakespeare Natural Living Directory 2018

wellness profiles

Soul Synergy Wellness Center (formerly 7eFit Spa) 1492 High Ridge Rd, Ste 9, Stamford 203-356-5822 SoulSynergyWellness111@gmail.com SoulSynergyWellness114.co

Practice summary/services offered: Soul Synergy Wellness Center provides transformative treatments to support your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health. Available services include infrared sauna with color therapy, Bemer sessions and noninvasive body contouring (CaviLipo, Torc and Myolift). Facials offered include oxygen, anti-aging and microdermabrasion. Other services include massage therapy, reflexology, aromatherapy, hypnosis, personalized yoga, meditation and sound therapy with practitioners, such as a psychic medium, clairvoyant, third generational healer (modern and ancient practices), crystal healer, tarot and intuitive readers, life coach, and nutritionist. What drew you to this profession? Through countless experiences with my clients, I discovered a passion for facilitating holistic healing. I became aware of the demand for a wellness center in this area that offered an effective variety of alternative treatments. How does your work differ from others in your profession? We offer a wide range of services and customizable packages to ensure the individual needs of all our clients are fulfilled. What should a client or patient expect from working with you? Understanding, compassion, dedication, patience and solutions. What changes do you plan in 2018? We will bring more workshops and collaborative events to nurture the community, and strengthen our collective commitment to health and well-being. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? The Soul Synergy Wellness family is dedicated to spreading love. See ads, pages 4 and 26.

Healthful Direction

Alison Anderson Westport and distance sessions via Zoom 203-557-4192 Alison@HealthfulDirection.com HealthfulDirection.com Practice summary/services offered: I help you identify and heal the root cause(s) of your symptoms to restore harmonic balance. Learn to live with more peace and flow by melting away limiting “roadblocks” in the areas of stress, allergies and sensitivities, body image issues, phobias and more. Processes used include PSYCH-K, Healing from The Body Level Up, Emotion Code, Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT/“tapping”) and more. What drew you to this profession? In 2007, I was in graduate school for clinical nutrition and I struggled from severe test-taking anxiety. I found energy healing to be the one thing that helped me. After working for over 10 years as a clinical nutritionist, I shifted my private practice to focus exclusively on the mind-body connection for those wanting deeper answers and healing. How does your work differ from others in your profession? My knowledge as a clinical nutritionist and former experience working for large corporations has allowed me to bring new insight to my clients and the field of energy healing. I work with clients both in person and at a distance with the same results. What should a client or patient expect from working with you? I offer a complimentary 30-minute healing session, and often the results from this short session are quite transformational. Long-term, I’ve had clients feeling more at peace; lessening food sensitivities; increasing productivity; healing physical, mental and spiritual pain; and more. What changes do you plan in 2018? I will continue public speaking and do more writing to help the community better understand their mind-body connection. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? My office setting and sessions offer serenity amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday living. You may walk in feeling stressed, but you will leave sessions feeling renewed and aligned.

See our 2018 Editorial Calendar on Page 61 • See our Display Ad Index on Page 102 36

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

SOPHIA Natural Health Center

31 Old Route 7, Brookfield 203-740-9300 Info@SophiaNaturalHealth.com INM.center

Making Transitions with Resilience Feb.16-19, 2018 Lifebridge Sanctuary

ROSEDALE, NY www.lifebridge.org/sanctuary.cfm

Practice summary/services offered: Using our unique system of integrative natural medicine—including thermography and state-of-the-art technology and testing—you will experience a wellness approach that focuses on the root cause of your health problems. What drew you to this profession? My desire to introduce and educate as many women as possible to the benefits of this life-saving technology. Why do you feel passionate about thermography? Thermography can detect minute changes in your body that can literally mean the difference between being preventative and proactive with your health, or having to be reactive to bigger issues later on. What should a client or patient expect from working with you? A patient can be assured of a thoroughly professional screening with a state-of-theart camera, specialized medical interpretation of images and reports, and personalized follow-up. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? With almost two decades of experience, our medical professionals are specialists in addressing any potential risk factors that may result from your screening and developing a natural protocol based on your individual needs.

Life is full of transitions, single to married, married to single! Job changes, children going off to college (or coming back!) Sometimes what is needed is time for yourself and tools to help you process life’s many changes to build resilience. Join a talented group of teachers who will help guide you. Utilizing ritual, journaling, art collage, Yoga Nidra, meditation, healing movement with soul-stirring music, and labyrinth walks; you will leave with an understanding of how these practices can assist you in managing life’s transitions.

Zelie Pforzheimer

CAPP, B3 Facilitator, ACEP Member, Certified SoulCollage® Facilitator

Peggy Burt

Certified Yoga instructor of Spiral Path Yoga Center, Sierra Madre, CA

JoJo Keane

Inspired Soul Studio, Dancer, Artist, Writer & Spiritual Life Coach

For more information, and to register, visit: www.pforzsoul.com

Enrolling Now For April! Ecotherapy & Cultural Sustainability Certificate Develop a deeper connection to self, community, and the larger ecosystem

Ecotherapy Certificate Program – 8 WEEKENDS The connection between the environment and our health cannot be overstated. Recent research indicates that interaction with nature can reduce stress levels, lower blood pressure, improve memory and moods, and contribute overall to greater psychological and physical well-being. Simply taking someone into a garden or park can accomplish far more than an antidepressant, and modern medicine is finally starting to prove it.

Call NOW to speak with an advisor (203) 874-4252 or visit www.learn.edu

Holistic Graduate Studies Main Campus: 171 Amity Road, Bethany, CT

Natural Living Directory 2018

wellness profiles

Saltana Cave

Jennifer L. Hernandez, MAT

Anna Pogoda, Principal 590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-969-4327 Anna@SaltanaCave.com SaltanaCave.com Facebook.com/SaltanaCave

Certified Energy Healer 203-583-1485 Me@JenniferLHernandez.com JenniferLHernandez.com

Practice summary/ services offered: Salt therapy (also known as halotherapy) is a very new concept to the U.S. However, people are open and curious, and once they try it, they love it and come back! As soon as you enter Saltana Cave, you are surrounded by tons of Himalayan salt rocks. This beautiful and glowing space has been designed for you to feel an immediate sense of relief both on an emotional and a physical level. In the cave, we offer salt cave sessions for therapy and relaxation, Himalayan salt products, classes and workshops, private parties, birthday events and musical events. What drew you to this profession? I grew up around natural salt mines in Poland. On a summer visit to Poland, I noticed my daughter’s asthma improved after several visits to a healing salt cave. What changes do you plan in 2018? We will offer more sound healing concerts, including Tibetan and crystal bowls music in the cave, as well as many classes and workshops covering various topics. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? Saltana Cave is a wonderful place for people of all ages to come, experience and receive relief on some level. Research suggests that one 45-minute session in the cave equates to three days spent at the shore as far as the negative ions and minerals go. There is a free session giveaway every Friday—like us on Facebook! See ad, page 83.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

Practice summary/ services offered: As a certified energy healer and doctoral student specializing in metaphysical science, I provide the following healing modalities for children and adults: EFT, Reiki, crystal healing, 13th Octave LaHoChi, chakra balancing, angel readings, life coaching and more. What drew you to this profession? As a young girl, I began developing connections to energy and receiving messages. This helped me remain spiritually strong during trying times and opened up the possibility of helping others through energy healing. How does your work differ from others in your profession? Using my experience as an educator, I have created energy healing approaches for children struggling academically, socially and emotionally. I provide customized healing sessions for children and adults based on intuitive/divine guidance. What should a client or patient expect from working with you? Expect to discover a newfound spiritual strength that promotes inner healing to remove the energetic blocks that prevent you from living your soul’s divine potential. What changes do you plan in 2018? Developing and relaunching a line of tools to support client progress. Creating individual client portals, guided meditation sessions and lunar events are a few of the many exciting things planned for 2018. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? I harbor an affinity toward helping others and consider myself a spiritual “helpologist”. One of my life’s missions is to bring peace and harmony to others.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Associates In Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care, P.C. Dr. Risa Sloves & Dr. Mark Joachim 156 East Ave, Norwalk • 203-838-1555 RSMJChiro@sbcglobal.net CTChiropractic.com • CTSpinalPainCenter.com AllergyEliminationNorwalk.com KeyEssentialNutrients.com

Practice summary/ primary services offered: Dr. Risa Sloves and Dr. Mark Joachim are a husband and wife team offering natural chiropractic and wellness care for over 25 years. Sloves is one of only nine chiropractic physicians in Connecticut that is board-certified in pediatric and maternity care, including certifications in the Webster and Bagnell breech techniques, and in scoliosis care. Joachim has advanced certification in The BioSET Allergy Elimination Technique, a non-invasive, drug-free and shot-free health care method to eliminate food and environmental allergies. They also offer non-surgical spinal decompression, acupuncture and nutrition. In addition, Joachim is the developer of the Key Essential Nutrient line. We offer chiropractic care for all ages and abilities; specialized care for pre- and post-natal and pediatrics; cranial sacral therapy; newborn/infant feeding issues pertaining to lip tie/tongue tie/cheek tie; BioSET Allergy Elimination Technique; spinal decompression with Axiom DRX 9000; acupuncture with and without needles; nutrition and enzyme therapy; and functional medicine. What drew you to this profession? Since childhood, we have both been interested in health, wellness, nutrition and competitive athletics. What we can provide with chiropractic care and the other services that we are experts in is really basic anatomy and allowing the body to function optimally and healthier! What changes do you plan for 2018? We have been fortunate over the past 25 years to build strong relationships not only with our patients, but also with other health care providers in Connecticut. One of our goals for 2018 is to continue to strengthen and bridge the gap between traditional medical approaches and natural, alternative health care. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? Now more than ever before, parents are searching for proactive lifestyle habits that will nurture their children’s health. Chiropractic awareness is shifting from being an intervention not only for pain relief, but for a more proactive, wellness-oriented healthcare choice. See ads, pages 25 and 53.

LET US TREAT

Y U to a free pilates class

Mind-Body Connection Pilates pilatesMBC.com | New Milford, CT | 860.350.3643

A new dimension 1B)4%3'0453:% +4%)./0%12304"5)6%''7%//)*%70%:) 1?%:/)3)41'"/0"5)322:1354)01@ A9/5'%)23"7 headaches sciatica asthma sports injuries birth trauma stress disorders

ear and sinus infections 53:23')0977%') syndrome back and neck pain A%7/0:93')23"7

89221:0);19:)<1#;=/)7309:3') 4%3'"7$),"04)$%70'%()437#/>17) treatment.

Dr. David Johnston, DO & Associates 158 Danbury Road, suite #6 !"#$%&%'#()*+ ,,,-./0%12304"56%''7%//-7%0 Phone: 203.438.9915

Natural Living Directory 2018

wellness profiles

Being Centered: Psychological Services, PLLC Dr. Teresa Reyes Castillo Dr. Anna Huff 203-614-1089 Info@Being-Centered.com Being-Centered.com

Practice summary/ services offered: Dr. Teresa Reyes Castillo and Dr. Anna Huff offer psychodynamic psychotherapy. Our approach guides clients to find their genuine and authentic self to encourage self-healing. We provide individual, group and couple’s psychotherapy and psychological testing. What drew you to this profession? Originally, we were both drawn to various aspects. Our own selfexploration through becoming psychologists led us to a focus on an in-depth exploration of the human soul. We have practiced psychology since 2011-12 through intensive training during pre- and post-graduate work. We worked in a group practice, and then opened our private practice in October 2017. We are both Licensed Clinical Psychologists in Connecticut and New York. We both graduated with a PhD in Clinical Forensic Psychology from Alliant International University. How does your work differ from others in your profession? We treat relationship conflicts on an individual level and through couple’s psychotherapy, including uncoupling for divorce cases. We work with trauma and personality disorders, such as narcissistic and borderline. We also treat adults in pursuit of a meaningful existence through self-exploration. What should a client expect from a session with you? Most psychotherapy sessions are 50 minutes. Psychological testing has a different timeframe established with the client. The strength of the therapeutic relationship guides the progress in session. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? Find your inner truth and hold steadfast with the courage to follow it. You hold your own answers. Trust and dare to discover yourself. See ad, page 12.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

The Graduate Institute 171 Amity Rd, Bethany 203-874-4252 Info@Learn.edu Learn.edu

Practice summary/ services offered: The Graduate Institute is a state-accredited graduate school dedicated to promoting an integrative and holistic worldview through the study of health, wellness, education, and personal and professional transformation. Its vision is to enhance a broad understanding of complex human issues; stimulate individual and collective awareness; increase well-being; and contribute to the betterment, sustainability and regeneration of community and society. How is your program different from that of others in your field? As an independent institution of higher education, we provide transformative education to enable students to reach their full potential in both their professional and personal lives. What should individuals expect from working with your program? We conduct all of our programs in cohorts to establish a collaborative learning environment. This model fosters dialogue and the vibrant exchange of ideas. The learning process is dynamic, relevant and humanized. What changes do you plan in 2018? We are enrolling now for our 2018 programs. We offer two-year Master of Arts degrees (one weekend a month). It is perfect for working healthcare professionals, teachers and those with a busy lifestyle. We also offer certificate programs. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? We offer experiential learning and support. Learning doesn’t end in the four walls of our classrooms. We provide hands-on mentoring and internships for valuable training opportunities as well as potential career placements upon program completion. See ads, pages 7 and 37.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Barefoot Living Arts

85 Mill Plain Rd, Fairfield 203-955-1955 BarefootMedicalArts@gmail.com BarefootLivingArts.org Practice summary/services offered: Barefoot Living Arts is a wellness center in downtown Fairfield that provides acupuncture, craniosacral therapy, massage, qigong, meditation, counseling, yoga and more. Our practice consists of two naturopathic doctors, a licensed massage therapist, a licensed clinical social worker and an advanced practice registered nurse. How does your work differ from others in your profession? At our center, we utilize different approaches to treat a range of ailments, including those of a physical, psychological, spiritual and somatopsychic nature. Ultimately, we believe that the cause of suffering of any kind is a result of a disconnection with oneself. Therefore, in all that we do, we strive to gently assist our patients to develop a deeper, more authentic connection with themselves, and to discover and settle into their home that is their body. What should a client or patient expect from working with you? Our primary purpose is to offer clients a way back home to themselves and discover resources within. We believe that to heal one’s body one must first be at home—present and connected to the body—and we aim to help our patients on their journey inward. While we offer remedies and a variety of treatments, we know that these healing modalities will only work when the individual is ready to receive it. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? We will continue to grow in what we offer and who we serve. We have already begun to add more classes and workshops to our schedule. We look forward to offering memberships for our center.

EyeCare Associates, PC Dr. Randy Schulman Offices in Trumbull, Southport, Norwalk and Stamford CTEyeCareAssociates.com

Practice summary/services offered: EyeCare Associates and Dr. Randy Schulman have been serving Fairfield County as a leading provider of optometry services, vision care products, vision therapy, sports vision, neuro-optometric rehabilitation and preventive eye care for nearly 30 years. With offices in Trumbull, Southport, Norwalk and Stamford, the experienced team of doctors and therapists helps patients of all ages with their vision needs. What drew you to this profession? When I was 15 years old, I worked for Dr. Carl Gruning, a behavioral optometrist in Fairfield. I was amazed at how much better the patients got after doing vision therapy. The children were more focused and better behaved, and the adults were happier. As a behavioral optometrist, I understand that, “how you see is how you be,” and vision can be changed for the better. How does your work differ from others in your profession? As an integrative optometrist, I am looking at how the visual system functions. I look at how it is connected to physical, emotional and mental health and wellness. Treating based on the whole person could mean prescribing optimal glasses, as well as giving lifestyle modifications and visual wellness suggestions. What should a client or patient expect from working with you? Clients should expect a careful assessment of symptoms, visual demands, health and wellness, visual function and ocular health. This is followed by recommendations for optimizing vision and quality of life. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? We plan on adding another resident and are actively seeking individuals who want to join our team. See ad, page 24.

�ov�. S�x. Intimacy. Workshops & Retreats

The Art of Touch for Couples Wildly Orgasmic Woman (WOW) Men's & Women's Self-Mastery and more… Dr. Inessa Zaleski, DD, CMCH

Creator of Reikinosis™ | Calmness.com/LSI 1-203-708-7777 | 1-800-929-CALM Practical guidance on utilizing our inherent sexuality to enrich our everyday lives. Natural Living Directory 2018

wellness profiles

MindBody Mastery LLC

HEMP*Health*DIRECT

100B Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 646-739-7879 Nicole@MindBodyMastery.org MindBodyMastery.org

Fairfield 203-258-9851 Sallie@HempHealthDirect.com HempHealthDirect.com

Practice summary/ services offered: I offer psychic wellness evaluations for fitness, peak performance, Reiki healing and weight-loss goals. I am a Reiki Master (2007) as well as a certified personal trainer and behavior specialist through the National Academy of Sports Medicine and the Aerobic and Fitness Association of America. What drew you to this profession? Since I was 16, I have been researching how the mind and body interact. My father taught me about human anatomy through his art. My mother had weight issues but managed to overcome many diseases. I found the human body to be a miracle that we sometimes misunderstand. I wanted to help bridge that gap in understanding and empower individuals on their own mind-body journey. How does your work differ from others in your profession? I am a psychic who is also a certified personal trainer/behavior specialist and Reiki Master. For personal training, I utilize the traditional fitness/health history questionnaires; InBody scale report; and my psychic readings for chemical, hormonal, muscular strengths and imbalances. I also use behavior tests to evaluate my clients and their goals. I give Reiki-assisted stretch sessions to personal training clients. What should a client or patient expect from working with you? A comprehensive assessment of who they are as physical, emotional and spiritual beings. I then create a personal plan for their weight-loss goal attainment, improved performance or healing needs. What changes do you plan in 2018? I will be adding more online services (Skype for personal training and behavior change, and email for psychic readings) for the clients that live too far away or travel for business. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? I am not your average trainer. I am psychic. I don’t do cookiecutter weight-loss or fitness programs, or preprogrammed handpositioned healing. Each training client’s workout is based on energetic makeup and scientifically based exercise progressions. See ad, page 9. 42

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

Practice summary/services offered: We sell pain management products made from industrial hemp and cannabidiol (CBD), a natural constituent of hemp oil. Other products include a cannabis beauty skincare line, tinctures, topicals, edibles and a medley of other products. What drew you to this profession? I personally witnessed a person in tremendous pain who become pain-free after taking one CBD hemp-oil filled capsule. That’s when I began studying, researching and getting involved publicly as an activist for legalization of this medicinal plant. How does your work differ from others in your profession? My work is constantly about spreading the word. I help to educate the public about the health benefits this plant brings to each person, and to industries such as medicine, food, automobile, clothing, farming and agriculture. What should a client or patient expect from working with you? We have an honest and accurate assessment of my client and what CBD can do for them. We also make custom formulations for their needs only. While developing a personal relationship, my client has a professional in their corner to depend on. What changes do you plan in 2018? To keep meeting the needs of the people. I stand behind my products, and will keep selling, promoting and producing new products. This plant has amazing medicinal qualities. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? HempHealthDirect is keen on spreading the word about CBD and its health benefits. My mission is to teach and educate people that they have a choice in what they put into their bodies. With such seismic paradigm shifts in public perception, it may not be long before the immense medicinal benefits from hemp production and cannabidiol extraction will finally be recognized and utilized by those needing relief from pain, anxiety, seizures and more.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Ingels Family Health Jaquel Patterson, ND, MBA 22 Fairfield Pl, Fairfield 203-254-9957 Info@DarinIngelsND.com IngelsFamilyHealth.com

Practice summary/services offered: I newly joined Ingels Family Health working as a naturopathic physician to serve the medical needs of families through natural medicine. My practice areas of focus include Lyme disease and co-infections, autoimmune conditions and anxiety. I work with chronic immune dysfunction, including allergies; asthma; and childhood disorders like ADD/ADHD, PANDAS/PANS and autism spectrum disorders. What drew you to this profession? I watched my parents and grandparents use alternative medicine at home at a very early age. I saw my mother struggle with lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. I noticed the many unmet needs in conventional treatments. This instilled in me a desire and hope for a better way to provide care. How does your work differ from that of others in your profession? I use various natural treatment modalities with the goal of getting to the underlying cause of disease by partnering and empowering others in their healthcare journey to “get back to self.” My goal is to restore the body back into balance for optimal wellness and meet you where you are at. I use pharmaceutical grade nutritional supplementation and herbal medicine, constitutional and miasmatic homeopathy, low dose immunotherapy (LDI) and sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT). What should a client or patient expect from working with you? You should expect a comprehensive approach, including a thorough intake and medical history. I listen to see the patterns in your illness and use the most minimally invasive techniques. Most importantly, I really listen! What changes do you plan in 2018? I plan to conduct monthly workshops on topics like Lyme disease, childhood development disorders and autoimmune conditions. I am also looking to partner with the community on various healthcare initiatives and collaborations. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? I’m here to support your journey and have over 10 years of experience working with patients. I am a compassionate provider, a good listener and use a unique approach for each patient I work with. I believe we all can overcome our health obstacles with the right supports. I’m also very committed to the naturopathic profession; I currently serve as the President of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP). See ads, pages 5 and 15.

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

Robin Ordan, LCSW 203-561-8535

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

Health coaching to support recovery from: ADD SPD Autism ADHD

maria@mariarickerthong.com

Patricia’s Presents

Beautiful Objects for Discerning Customers Pet and Equestrian Themed Items

A treasure trove of unique gift items to suit all tastes! Luscious Vegan Leather Goods 860-946-9705 199 Ethan Allen Highway Ridgefield, CT 06877 Stunning Fair Trade Jewelry… www.patriciaspresents.com and more

Plentiful Parking! Natural Living Directory 2018

wellness profiles

Nora Jaya Healing Arts

Hudson Valley Natural Health

Fairfield and Stratford 203-998-5292 Jaya@NoraJaya.com NoraJaya.com

Practice summary/services offered: Nora Jaya is an intuitive healer that specializes in hands-on healing, sound healing and spiritual counseling. She’s trained in both Western Reiki as a master and also Jikiden Reiki Shihan Kaku (teacher). She’s a certified yoga teacher, sound healer and Egyptian High Alchemist. What drew you to this profession? Nora has been highly sensitive her whole life. After healing her own depression through meditation and channeling “spirit voice” when she first started out as a personal trainer, she realized she had a deep awareness and ability to heal others with her hands and counseling. How does your work differ from others in your profession? Nora’s originality of her work is based in her ability to channel Egyptian High Alchemy and sound healing techniques from her own heritage that are interwoven into her sessions and events. Her ability to articulate her empathic awareness and power of her energy work is rarely seen. What should a client or patient expect from working with you? Each session or event with Nora Jaya is intimate and creates a visceral experience of knowing that healing is taking place. Vibrations of energy can be seen and felt in a profound way. Nora’s counseling during the sessions is channeled and stays with each client to facilitate long-term deeper healing.

Kurt Beil, ND, LAc 72 North St, Ste 100A, Danbury 914-362-8315 DrKurt@Earthlink.net HudsonValleyNaturalHealth.com

Practice summary/services offered: Naturopathic and Chinese Medicine, including holistic primary care, functional and integrative medicine, nutritional support, botanical medicine, stress reduction, dietary and lifestyle counseling and acupuncture. What drew you to this profession? My desire to help people with their health, my love of the natural world, and my interest in the applied philosophy of Western and Eastern natural medicine therapies. How long have you been in practice? In practice 11 years, with one year since moving back to the East coast from Portland, Oregon. Born and raised in White Plains, NY. What training and/or certifications do you have? Naturopathic Physician (ND) and Licensed Acupuncturist (LAc). I am also a certified qigong instructor and NADA acupuncture detox specialist. What is your particular specialty or niche? General holistic primary care. Endocrine/hormonal balancing, autoimmune disease, mental/emotional issues (depression, anxiety), digestive/GI issues, insomnia, musculoskeletal pain.

What changes do you plan in 2018? Nora Jaya plans on recording her sound healing to be available for sale, along with releasing more articles. She will be offering events and retreats in Fairfield County. She is also in the process of writing her first book, channeling the voice of Gaia.

What should a client expect from a session or series of sessions with you? The 90-minute initial visit includes review of symptoms, past treatments (including lab work), health history, diet and lifestyle review, and preliminary treatment plan including indicated lab tests. Follow-up visits often include acupuncture.

What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? Nora is an authentic healer who uses several modalities. She customizes each healing session for every individual’s needs, and her compassion is deep and genuine. She can work with all ages and genders, and addresses all concerns from emotional to physical imbalance and pain. See ad, page 53.

What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? My passion is helping people restore their health by identifying imbalances that are causing their symptoms. Using natural approaches, we can provide you with ways to resolve your illness and achieve the optimal state of total health and well-being. See ad, page 13.

Our hearts are with you, even if our hands are not. ~Jason Maddy 44

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Salt of the Earth

Therapeutic Spa 787 Main St S, Woodbury 203-586-1172 • SOTESWoodburyCT@gmail.com NaturalSaltHealing.com Facebook.com/BreatheClear Twitter.com/HiSaltSue Practice summary/ services offered: Salt of the Earth offers services to help you shift from imbalance to balance. They include dry salt therapy, InfraRed therapy, bodywork treatments, saltcave yoga, energy/crystal light healing, feng shui (residential and corporate), CT distributor of Tourmaline Spring Water, events, Heart and Home store, workshops, meditation programs, and Journey Dance. What drew you to this profession? Beginning this venture had to do with what my husband and I experienced in our lifetime, everything from climbing the corporate ladder, financial stress, and loss of loved ones to cancer. The toll of it all affected our health. We started looking beyond traditional medicines to alternative therapies and realized there was an abundance of natural treatments that can be just as effective in healing, while supporting one’s immune system. What changes do you plan in 2018? At the spa we have some new therapists and unique services, including our Body Integration service and Cave Pampering packages. We are also planning some wonderful events at the Sanctuary at 346 Main St S, down the street from the spa. In April we welcome back spiritual singer David Young, who will present about Jesus and Mary Magdalene. We will host a special event on April 29 to celebrate the divine feminine and validation of each woman’s true self. The event will feature art, clothing, raw chocolate and elixirs, chakra bracelets and a fashion show. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? The natural elements of fire, water, air and earth are vital to our health. The mind, body and spirit work together in unity to nurture the whole self. When this delicate harmony becomes disrupted, it gives rise to disease. At Salt of the Earth, we strive to correct these imbalances through natural therapies that restore harmony, improve well-being and strengthen the immune system. As a society, we are starting to see a shift in the healthcare industry. Salt of the Earth wholeheartedly supports this wellness movement and encourages a more balanced, holistic approach of healing from the inside out. We are here to educate our surrounding communities and provide them with safe, alternative and holistic treatments. See ad, page 4.

Whole-Body Dentistry

at The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center Mark A. Breiner, DDS, FAGD, FIAOMT 501 Kings Hwy East, Fairfield 203-371-0300 WholeBodyDentistry.com Practice summary/services offered: One of the original pioneers in holistic dentistry, Dr. Mark A. Breiner views himself as a partner in his patients’ overall health and wellness plan. We offer general and holistic dentistry, mercury-free dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, conscious sedation, bio-compatibility testing, energetic testing, 3D panoramic imaging, treatment of sleep breathing disorders in children and adults, TMJ treatment, non-surgical periodontal treatment, microscopic evaluation for periodontal bacteria and tooth whitening. Our health center also offers naturopathic and osteopathic care, including hyperbaric oxygen and neurocognitive treatments. How does your work differ from others in your profession? Whole-Body Dentistry goes beyond the traditional practice of dentistry and understands the inter-relationship of the mouthbody connection. This all-encompassing philosophy recognizes that any work done in the mouth affects the entire human body— often with surprisingly profound results, either for the positive or for the negative. By being aware of these relationships, we strive to minimize the invasive quality of dental procedures. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? Dr. Breiner’s innovative approach combines the use of leadingedge technology with a sound and broad holistic strategy for healthy living, thus minimizing invasive procedures that so often occur in traditional dentistry. We offer the most advanced general and holistic dentistry care and use state-of-the-art technology to support the body’s innate ability to heal. See ad, page 2.

Natural Living Directory 2018

wellness profiles

Twin Star Herbal Education & Community Apothecary 57 Bank St, New Milford 860-350-0077 TwinStarHerbInfo@gmail.com TwinStarTribe.com

Practice summary/ services offered: Twin Star is an herbal education center and community apothecary. We offer classes and trainings on herbalism, natural health and energetic studies. Our classes range from two-hour “drop-in” workshops up to threeyear herbal certification training programs. The herbal apothecary offers organic herbs, natural remedies and specialty products. In addition, we offer annual “plant healer tours” in both Central America and Europe. What drew you to this profession? Twin Star was born in New Milford in 2012, shortly after herbalist Lupo Passero moved home to Connecticut after years of training and teaching herbalism in Asheville, NC. She was first inspired by being a young mother looking for the safest, most effective healing remedies for her own children and community. Twin Star has since grown into a school, apothecary and a healing community. How does your work differ from others in your profession? In our apothecary, we stock hundreds of herbs and natural products with trained staff that can make recommendations. We offer dozens of classes on natural health and healing both in-store and in local outdoor spaces. What should a client or patient expect from working with you? We have herbalists, astrologers, readers and other practitioners that can refer you to or set you up with an appointment. Expect friendly customer service, a knowledgeable staff, and local and hand-made products in the apothecary. Expect fun, entertaining classes filled with loads of information. What changes do you plan in 2018? We look forward to continuing to host a variety of teachers and practitioners, expanding our class offerings, and taking tours to Costa Roca, France, Ireland and Mexico.

Angelic Healing Center Gigi Benanti Norwalk 203-852-1150 AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net AngelHealReiki.com GigiBenanti.com

Practice summary/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 full-time.

What drew you to this profession? Starting at age 5, 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. 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 and 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. What changes do you plan in 2018? 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 is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? I look forward to helping you to bring the light, love, blessings, joy and peace into your life.

What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? The number one thing that our students, clients and customers say about Twin Star is that they feel at “home” here. Many people have dubbed us their “tribe” over the years, hence the name Twin Star Tribe. 46

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Shalva Clinic

Nadia Noori, ND 8 Lincoln St, Westport 203-916-4600 DrNoori@ShalvaClinic.org ShalvaClinic.org Practice summary/services offered: As a licensed naturopathic physician, I utilize comprehensive assessments in conjunction with innovative and standard laboratory testing to develop tailored health plans that encourage the body’s inherent ability to heal. What drew you to this profession? Having experienced the benefits and practice of naturopathic philosophy firsthand, I have a strong desire to aid others on their health journey. I seek to understand and clarify the “whys” while assisting patients in the application and maintenance of a healthier life. How does your work differ from others in your profession? In addition to a general family practice, my area of specialty lies in optimizing brain health with a focus on neurodegenerative and neuropsychological conditions. What should a client or patient expect from working with you? There are a variety of therapies and services I am trained in, including nutritional and lifestyle counseling, herbal medicine, vitamin and mineral supplementation, homeopathy, physical manipulation, acupuncture, craniosacral therapy and LENS neurofeedback. What changes do you plan in 2018? My mission is to continue bringing preventative advice to the forefront of health care. This will not only educate patients, but also enable all healthcare practitioners involved in the care of my patients to collaborate and collectively improve the quality of life for those we seek to serve. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? I am focused on meaningful and measurable outcomes. Be it a comprehensive workup, pain management, or simply optimizing an already healthy mind and body, my passion lies in fostering a collaborative relationship with my patients and their families so that they can take an active role in the improvement of their overall wellness and health. See ad, back cover.

Shalva Clinic

Ellen Lewis, ND 8 Lincoln St, Westport 203-916-4600 Info@ShalvaClinic.org ShalvaClinic.org Practice summary/primary services offered: I’m a licensed naturopathic physician and medical director at Shalva Clinic, where we have a talented group of physicians and complementary practitioners offering full diagnostics and natural, comprehensive family health care. I also serve as academic faculty at the University of Bridgeport.

What drew you to this profession? I began as an athletic trainer, where I realized human potential was firmly connected to health care and lifestyle. I earned a doctorate in naturopathic medicine to foster proactive health. I see more clearly that naturopathic physicians are truly the first functional medicine doctors. We heal by looking for the root cause of illness, never content to just treat symptoms. How does your work differ from others in your profession? In addition to my doctorate, I’ve completed a two-year mentorship in integrative women’s health, offering natural treatment for cervical dysplasia and HPV, in addition to an apprenticeship in midwifery and pediatrics, and biotherapeutic drainage. My specialties are in the areas of thyroid health, women’s health and abnormal paps. What should a patient expect from working with you? I use both conventional and natural modalities with science-based diagnostics, treating patients with nutrition, botanical medicine and lifestyle counseling for care that may be the most personal ever experienced. What changes do you plan in 2018? More health-based education for our patients, including a focus on women’s health issues, rheumatology and pain management, and support for patients undergoing cancer treatment.

Natural Living Directory 2018

wellness profiles

Unity Center of Norwalk

Celebrating 25 Enlightening Years 3 Main St (above the Ford Dealership), Norwalk 203-855-7922 Office@UnityCenterNorwalk.org UnityCenterNorwalk.org Twitter.com/UnityNorwalkCT Practice summary/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 profession? Unity Center of Norwalk’s mission is to continually discover, 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. 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. What changes do you plan in 2018? Open Mic night is the third Saturday of each month where anyone can get up and sing, recite poetry or do 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), Reiki, prosperity, health and wellness classes and fairs. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? We are all inherently good although many of us may have forgotten that from time to time. See ad, page 18.

Nature never deceives us; it is we who deceive ourselves. ~Jean-Jacques Rousseau 48

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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 Practice summary/services offered: Mind-Body Transformation 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. What drew you to this profession? I have always wanted to help 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. What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you? I am a registered certified consulting hypnotist. I practice Thought Field Therapy-Adv and Voice Technology, virtual gastric band hypnosis, neuro linguistic programming (NLP), time line therapy, complementary medical hypnosis, hypnobirthing and Touch for Health. These powerful, natural and dramatic mind-body therapies and methodologies can elicit immediate and lasting lifelong results for those suffering from a wide variety of issues and emotions, often in just minutes. What changes do you plan in 2018? Mind-Body uses a unique, powerful and effective system of therapeutic techniques that can naturally and easily help create life-changing experiences and result in feelings of deep peace and relaxation for children and adults. We are always on the lookout for new techniques and technologies that will help our clients achieve their goals. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? In today’s world, we may often find ourselves or loved ones filled with stress, fear and anxiety. There is hope. Mind-Body can help restore peace and harmony quickly and easily. See ads, pages 79 and 91.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Embody the Sacred Deana Paqua, MA, LMT Ridgefield and New Milford 203-994-5045 Deana.Paqua@gmail.com EmbodyTheSacred.net

Practice summary/services offered: Classes, training and certification programs in shamanic healing, Reiki, Integrated Energy Therapy and Andean energy medicine. Also spiritual and holistic health education for healers, spiritual seekers and the energy sensitive. Offering healing sessions, intuitive readings, space clearings, Munay Ki, Despacho ceremonies and Andean Rites. What drew you to this profession? I was first led to the field of holistic health from my own experiences of healing from major and minor health challenges, including a near-fatal car accident. I have found that a spiritually-based, holistic approach provides maximum benefits for many health challenges, including helping resolve trauma. I felt naturally drawn to Reiki, shamanic healing and other forms of energy medicine that offer possibilities of deep healing and transformation.

Natural Health & WELLNESS CENTER

Individualized Treatment Plans for Acute and Chronic Conditions Osteoarthritis & Joint Disorders • Back Problems Cholesterol Problems • Anxiety & Depression Fatigue, Insomnia & Weight Gain • Diabetes High Blood Pressure • Headaches & Migraine Upper Respiratory Conditions

LISA SINGLEY, N.D. Naturopathic Physician 203.874.4333

We accept most health insurance plans including Husky Health Connecticut

Schedule a consultation and receive 20% oﬀ all recommended supplements

NATURAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER 203.874.4333 2013 Main Street, Stratford, CT 06615 • www.nhawc.com

Do you hold any specific credentials/certifications? I am a certified Usui and Karuna Reiki Master Teacher, Integrated Energy Therapy master instructor, licensed massage therapist and ordained minister. I have a master’s degree in integrative health studies and am an adjunct professor at WCSU in holistic health studies. I’ve also participated in shamanic training with contemporary and indigenous shamans for over 14 years and been in practice for 18 years. What should a client expect from working with you? My sessions and classes are personalized, practical, down-to-earth, spiritually based and educational. They are designed to empower and support each individual’s spiritual path and healing journey. What changes do you plan in 2018? I am looking to offer a second-year shamanic training program in addition to the foundational program I offer. Other classes are in the works. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? My approach is focused on supporting clients and students in developing their own unique gifts, talents and skills for their own self-healing and self-empowerment, and to serve their communities. See ad, page 41.

March 10, 2018 ~ Danbury, CT

The premier event for organic fans, farmers, gardeners, foodies and families. With workshops, gift & farm product shopping, lunch & more!

CTNOFA.ORG ~ 203-308-2584 Natural Living Directory 2018

wellness profiles

Possibilities Farm

Osteopathic Wellness Center, LLC

Carrie Brady JD, MA Wilton 203-210-7484 PossibilitiesFarm@gmail.com PossibilitiesFarm.com Practice summary/ services offered: At Possibilities Farm, Carrie Brady partners with three extraordinary horses to bring out the best in humans through equine-assisted meditation, Reiki, coaching and workshops for individuals and businesses. What drew you to this profession? I have always been enchanted by horses. As soon as the equine experiential education field began emerging, I was intrigued. Horses help humans let go of limiting beliefs; when a person starts thinking or behaving differently, a horse’s response will change immediately. How does your work differ from others in your profession? The horses are truly my partners and every session is unique. With a diverse background in both corporate and healing/creative arts, I can design programs for clients with a range of ages, abilities and learning styles. What should a client or patient expect from working with you? I never know exactly what will happen with the horses, but it is always extraordinary. Wonder, peace, joy, and that magical state of childlike flow when you are so engaged in an activity you lose all track of time, commonly occur during a visit to the farm. What changes do you plan in 2018? I am partnering with Beth Leas to offer a variety of group programs in 2018, including our first weekend retreat in May. I am also launching a Possibilitarians lecture series, which will feature inspiring local speakers. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? It feels like magic, but it is part science too. As prey animals, horses see you in a different way than people do. Horses see through your words; they can feel your heart rate and your respiration. Horses know when you are feeling one way and acting another. Horses don't judge you or limit your future based on your past. Horses see all the possibilities in you in every moment.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

David Johnston, DO 158 Danbury Rd, Ste 8, Ridgefield Second location in Fairfield (Whole-Body Medicine) 203-438-9915 Info@OsteopathicWellness.net OsteopathicWellness.net

Practice summary/services offered: Dr. Johnston provides gentle, intuitive, hands-on osteopathic and craniosacral treatment to release restrictions in fascia, muscles and joints in addition to restoring circulation and balance of the nervous system. They are effective for inflammation and pain; concussions; birth trauma; sports injuries; stress/anxiety; headaches; fibromyalgia; and back, neck, spine and joint pain. Detoxification, nutrition, specialized blood work and custom foot orthotics are also available. What drew you to this profession? Watching my parents struggle with chronic health issues gave me a deeper appreciation for prevention of disease. Osteopathic medicine provided the perfect tool, combining holistic and traditional approaches for healing the whole person. How does your work differ from others in your profession? Health and wellness is not just about the absence of disease and treating the patient’s symptoms. A person must be empowered on their life journey to care for and nurture their body, mind and spirit. I am board-certified in neuromusculoskeletal medicine and osteopathic manipulative medicine. Diplomate of the American Board of Integrative Holistic Medicine and Nutrition. Associate faculty for the Sutherland Cranial Teaching Foundation and Osteopathic Cranial Academy. Recent certification and member of International Lyme and Associated Disease Society. What should a patient expect from working with you? As you enter our serene wellness center, expect to be empowered on your healing journey. You will leave with a comprehensive holistic plan you can follow to improve your health. What changes do you plan for your practice in 2018? We will be sharing more on our website and social media presence about upcoming events on wellness, detoxification, nutrition and osteopathy. Call us about IV nutrition to support immune and cellular function. See ads, pages 2 and 39.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Kara Acupuncture & Wellness Laura Shahinian Kara, MS, LAc Dipl 268 Greenwood Ave, Bethel 8 Lincoln St, Westport 203-470-7072 LauraKara@AcuLaura.com AcuLaura.com

Practice summary/ services offered: Kara Acupuncture & Wellness specializes in Japanese Acupuncture, Sports Medicine Acupuncture and Acupuncture Physical Medicine, which is an acupuncture style that combines elements from both classical acupuncture and Western physical medicine. What drew you to this profession? My father’s exploration into alternative medicine for his cancer had a huge impact on me as a teenager. Later, I became a shiatsu practitioner and had a thriving practice for 20 years before going into acupuncture. I draw from both of those experiences. How does your work differ from others in your profession? I use palpation-based (touch) diagnosis with my shiatsu and Japanese acupuncture background. I also have extensive training in orthopedics and sports medicine. This hands-on approach usually lends to immediate relief from many painful chronic disorders. What should a patient expect from working with you? Your first treatment will be well over an hour as I do a full intake, postural assessment, diagnosis, treatment and simple exercises to take home with you. Follow-ups are an hour. You will leave feeling like your whole body and nervous system were “reset”. We’ll talk about ways to keep it that way. What changes do you plan in 2018? My practice is always evolving. Right now, I am including more cupping, guasha and electro-acupuncture for pain disorders and getting great results. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? At Kara Acupuncture, our approach to healing is multidimensional by addressing the body, mind and spirit. Our goal is to provide the highest quality acupuncture treatment in a healing sanctuary where people feel cared for and supported. We are rebuilding strength where there is pain and restoring balance where there is stress and disharmony. See ad, page 24.

Enlightenment Center, Integrative Wellness Therapies Sarah Rotella 100 Danbury Rd, Ste 102, Ridgefield Additional locations in Greenwich and Southbury 203-525-5830 S.Light@mac.com SenLightenment.com

Practice summary/services offered: I provide integrative wellness therapies, including intuitive medical and spiritual healing, expert advanced manual therapies, Frequency Specific Microcurrent (FSM) application and education, consciousness mentorship and revolutionary self-care, and workshops and group sessions.. What drew you to this profession? I’ve always had strong intuitive/psychic abilities that came through the power of touch, knowing and guiding others. As these abilities grew I followed that intuition on my own healing and learning journey with a passion to help others help themselves and raise consciousness. How does your work differ from others in your profession? I artfully integrate and facilitate all the systems and rhythms of the body. I am intuitively guided while receiving information. I include vibrational medicine for enhanced healing along with selfcare guidance and education, an opportunity for true transformation and increased consciousness. What should a client expect from working with you? A session includes a functional intake, expert applications and intuitive guidance. All sessions meet the individual where they are and are inclusive of FSM, offering true transformation. You will receive mentorship, empowered self-care and follow-up support. What changes do you plan in 2018? I am looking forward to hosting experiential workshops, group sessions and expanding education on FSM. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? I believe we are in exciting evolutionary times. We have an innate ability to heal, evolve and transcend, creating a new reality. I believe in transparency and if you are committed to you, I am committed to facilitating your evolution! See ad, page 10.

Natural Living Directory 2018

wellness profiles

Wellness Institute

Victoria Shaw, PhD, LPC

Marvin P. Schweitzer, ND Kerri Stasiak, ND 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203-847-2788 Info@DrMarvinSchweitzer.com DrMarvinSchweitzer.com Dr.KStasiak@gmail.com DrKerriStasiak.com

203-254-3403 VFShawPhD@gmail.com VictoriaShawPsychotherapy.com

Practice summary/ services offered: We have over 30 years of family practice experience with cuttingedge, highly individualized approaches to help unleash your body’s healing power. These include electrodermal screening, homeopathy, Brainpaint EEG Biofeedback, Ondamed PEMF Therapy, nutrition programs, energy medicine, botanicals and oxygen therapies. Areas of specialty include: allergies, anti-aging, arthritis, candida, cholesterol, digestive health, environmental sensitivities, fatigue, headaches, heavy metal detox, Lyme disease, non-drug ADD/ADHD alternatives, stress and weight optimization. Women’s health is also a specialty; we provide hormone/menopause support, perform gynecological exams and work with patients to resolve menstruation issues. What should a patient expect from a session or series of sessions with you? During each office visit, we work on nourishing, balancing, repairing and cleansing your body, as well as working on stress and epigenetics. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? We are enthusiastically committed to doing what it takes to help you get well by addressing underlying causes. We take the necessary time; make the necessary effort; and have experience, expertise and amazing technology. When you share this commitment and desire to be a partner in this quest for wellness, outcomes are greatly improved. See ad, page 17.

Practice summary/services offered: I support clients in dealing with life’s struggles and improving the quality of their lives. My work combines traditional psychotherapy with intuitive guidance for children, teens and adults. What drew you to this profession? I have a strong desire to be of service and to support people in their efforts to live 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. How does your work differ from others in your profession? My intuition guides me directly to the source of my clients’ struggles, and helps me choose the most effective interventions and supports. I also help clients connect with their own intuitive wisdom. I have a doctorate in cognitive psychology, and completed post-doctoral training 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 should a client or patient expect from working with you? Sessions can help clients understand themselves better, identify personal strengths, find direction and guidance in making decisions, process past hurts, release resentments, reduce anxiety and learn to deal with life’s struggles. What changes do you plan in 2018? I am offering more workshops and group sessions, including a monthly intuition enlightenment book group, group intuitive readings and healings, and intuition development workshops. I will also host a monthly consultation group for holistic healers that are interested in practicing more intuitively. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? That I love what I do; I continue to be inspired by my clients’ spirit, courage, healing and growth. See ad, page 83.

The greater danger for most of us lies not in setting our aim too high and falling short; but in setting our aim too low, and achieving our mark. ~Michelangelo 52

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

The Institute Of Sustainable Nutrition 113 Simsbury Rd, West Granby 860-764-9070 Joan@TIOSN.com TIOSN.com

Practice summary/ services offered: We have a unique education program blending the science of nutrition with the handson components of sustainable gardening practices; using food and herbs to make kitchen medicine; culinary skills; and foraging for and using nutrient-rich wild food. What drew you to this profession? We wanted to fill a void by creating a food and health education program people had been asking us for. The vision was to create a program that incorporated all aspects of teaching about food and health with the gold standard of experiential, hands-on teaching. How does your work differ from others in your profession? We saw the need to give hands-on experience and connect students to the outdoors in order to give a truly meaningful educational experience. We also bring in experts from the food world to teach sections of the curriculum for a more well-rounded perspective. What should a client or patient expect from working with you? We hear again and again that what they learn rocks our students’ worlds. They tell us that their life is never the same and they are grateful. What changes do you plan in 2018? We are integrating more of our graduated students into our programming and offering more educational workshops to the public. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? We bring life-altering perspectives and experiences to our students that change how they live their life while building a life-long community. See ad, page 85.

Change Your Story, Change Your Life! Restoring Creativity, Wellness, and Balance Nancy S. Scherlong, lcsw,ptr, m/s Coaching, Psychotherapy, Expressive Arts Workshops HOLISTIC PSYCHOTHERAPY • COACHING • EXPRESSIVE THERAPIES/TRAINING

914.572.3167 | www.wellnessmetaphors.com 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Suite 7 | Ridgefield, CT 06877

Nora Jaya Healing Arts

Sessions \ Seminars \ Teachings

Jikiden Reiki • Alchemical Healing

Awakening awareness for true connection with life. Spiritual Counseling • Sound Healing

1(203)998-5292 Jaya@NoraJaya.com NoraJaya.com

Fairreld・ Stratford Locations

If My Lab Testing is Normal… Why do I still feel sick? How I Can Help You

Get a nutritional program created just for you!

• Comprehensive Functional Lab Testing • In-Depth Functional Analysis of Your Results • Proper and Relevant Nutrition Prescribed and Monitored

Set up your consultation today.

203-838-1555

Dr. Mark Joachim, D.C., F.I.A.M.A. 156 East Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06851 Author of the E-book

“How to Stop Suffering from Food Sensitivities, Allergies and Digestion Problems” Download at: www.AllergyEliminationNorwalk.com Natural Living Directory 2018

Valley Spirit Cooperative & Wellness Center

wellness profiles

Soul Healing Journey, LLC

6 Green Hill Rd, Washington • 860-619-2788 Info@ValleySpiritCoop.com • ValleySpiritCoop.com

Dr. Eilis Philpott 40 Livingston St, Fairfield 203-767-5954 Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com SoulHealingJourney.com

Practice summary/services offered: Dr. Eilis Philpott, the owner of Soul Healing Journey, LLC, has been a healing practitioner for over 20 years. She helps people understand who they are at a soul level. Modalities include rebirthing (conscious connected breathing), 13th Octave LaHoChi, Akashic Field Therapy and Soul Language. What drew you to this profession? I grew up in Ireland, the eldest of nine children, so I was always surrounded by the energy of birth. After moving to the U.K. and working as a biology teacher specializing in reproduction, it naturally followed that when I moved to the U.S., I was attracted to rebirthing for personal healing and, later, as a practitioner. How does your work differ from others in your profession? I use the breath as the foundation for the healing modalities that I use in my practice. The work we do together at Soul Healing Journey supports the internal energetic shifts needed in order to live a life of peace, harmony and joy as well as be in alignment with your soul purpose. What should a client expect from working with you? I have worked with many clients over the past 20 years. I have seen individuals change their careers, work through major trauma and abuse, and improve their current relationships or create new ones. What changes do you plan in 2018? I have been growing and developing my practitioner training for the 13th Octave LaHoChi. 2018 promises even greater expansion of that program. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? The greatest wish I have for all my clients is that they truly know what it feels like to be loved unconditionally. Many of us have not been given that gift and need to learn how to give it to ourselves. No matter where you are, where you’ve been and where you’re going, you deserve to know and love every aspect of yourself. See ad, page 26.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

Practice summary/services offered: Valley Spirit is a wellness center dedicated to serving our local community. We offer a unique blend of integrative medicine, classes and self-care options, serving patients and students alike by helping them to unlock their own innate healing abilities. Therapies include Chinese and Japanese-style acupuncture, Chinese herbal and Ayurvedic medicine, various styles of Asian bodywork, intuitive healing, massage therapy and esthetic arts.. Classes include meditation, tai chi, yoga, qigong, hand drumming and more. Jampa Stewart, LAc, and Pauline Koinis, LMT, head up our team of experienced therapists and teachers. What drew you to this profession? One of the three owners, Kristin Kunhardt (Valley Spirit’s CEO and Vision Keeper), was inspired to open the wellness center after her own personal healing experience with acupuncture and meditation. She moved back to her hometown to be near her father, and witnessed the benefits of alternative healing on his health and aging process. How does your work differ from others in your profession? Many of the teachers and therapists have been practicing individually for 20-35 years. We are also actively engaged with our local community, offering First Friday celebrations and other events that include music, dance, art and socializing. What should a client expect from working with you? Compassion, kindness, courtesy and knowledge. We are here to help our patients and students whether they are new to alternative care and the classes we offer, or are returning to therapies and exercise they may have once explored. What changes do you plan in 2018? Valley Spirit is happy to announce that Sonam Targee, an exceptional Ayurvedic doctor from NY, will be returning to the center seasonally for Ayurvedic consults. We are also planning two destination retreats for 2018-19 to Iceland and Costa Rica. We added two weekend yoga classes with Caroline Kinsloving and two weekday meditation classes with Jampa Stewart. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? In our first year, we served hundreds of patients and taught hundreds of students. We are not a gym or exercise studio. We are a wellness center, offering all things to support mind, body and spirit. We are your neighbors and are here to serve the community. See ad, page 23.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

David L Lerner, DDS

2649 Strang Blvd, Ste 201, Yorktown, NY 914-245-4041 Info@HolisticDentist.com HolisticDentist.com Practice summary/ services offered: The Center for Holistic Dentistry provides an innovative approach to the health care of the mouth, integrating the knowledge of natural healing with that of contemporary dental science and technology. Dr. David Lerner is a pioneer in holistic dentistry with 40 years of experience. He has expertise in biological, cosmetic, ceramic implants and functional dental reconstruction. Some areas of specialty include: complex dental problems, advanced TMJ care, sleep apnea, safe mercury removal, periodontal wellness. What first drew you to this profession? I had a desire to make a difference, and to use my gifts and talents in the service of others. How does your work differ from others in your profession? We offer each patient the opportunity to transcend the effects of their past dental health history and help them make choices that resolve dental sources of stress. What should a client or patient expect from working with you? We will listen to your story about your dental health history with the intention of understanding and helping you write a happy ending. The office environment’s soothing amenities complement our approach to dentistry; our space is designed to be relaxing and tranquil. What changes do you plan in 2018? Our book, The Dental Connection, will be published this spring. It’s going to be a page-turner. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? We are passionate about what we do and feel honored to be of service. The Center for Holistic Dentistry seeks to bridge the gap between modern dental technology and the ageless traditions of natural healing. This innovative approach to holistic dental care tends to the health of the mouth in relation to the whole person. See ad, page 81.

Illuminated Wellness Greg Madden Northeast/New England 508-579-7648 IllWellMadden@gmail.com Biontology.com

Practice summary/ services offered: Biontology is the next generation of acupuncture, without the needles. Using vibrational essences of homeopathy, it clears meridian energy channels and removes toxins to reset the body so it will heal itself. What drew you to this profession? As with many practitioners who find the healing arts, I became ill and went looking for avenues to find better health. When the hospitals couldn’t help me, my path led me to Biontology—which has me feeling like a 17-year-old again. How does your work differ from others in your profession? I am presently a certified biontologist and am receiving ongoing training through continuing education programs. I have been practicing for six years now. I’m currently educating and expanding my skills to include quantum healing, Reiki and tui-na medical massage to offer more improved health options for my clients. What should a client expect from a session with you? Biontology tunes the body for ultimate health, including physical, mental, emotional and even spiritual. As a professional interviewer, my clients relax and release harmful emotional energy. With 12 major meridians systems, we suggest three sessions to completely reset the body, and its illnesses and organs. More sessions may be needed with specific chronic illnesses. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? Biontology is a healing modality that many will resonate with; many of them are already predisposed to natural healing and will quickly understand how the science of this modality works.

Soul Focus Mela Rispoli

4th Generation Clairvoyant/Medium Reiki • Meditation • Guided Imagery • Group Sessions “Don’t wait for someone to bring you flowers. Plant your garden and decorate your soul.” ~ Mário Quintana

By appointment 203-570-3868 • mrispoli2@aol.com 145 Grassy Plain Street, Bethel, CT

Natural Living Directory 2018

wellness profiles

SOPHIA Natural Health Center 31 Old Rte 7, Brookfield 203-740-9300 Info@SophiaNaturalHealth.com INM.center

898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ste 7, Ridgefield 914-572-3167 WellnessMetaphors.com

Practice summary/ services offered: SOPHIA Natural Health Center specializes in integrative natural medicine, which includes the best of East Asian medicine combined with naturopathic medicine into a system that works. What drew you to this profession? The system was founded by Dr. Ken Hoffman, DACM, who believes the only way to regain and sustain good health is by addressing the root cause and treating the body with acupuncture, nutrition and therapies that enhance the body‘s ability to maintain health. How is your work different from that of others in your profession? What makes us different is the blending of two great medical systems and then providing care—based on our findings—that includes Eastern medicine evaluation, functional testing and allnatural therapies customized to each individual. What should a patient expect from working with you? As a patient, you should expect a comprehensive evaluation and professional care from over 20 years of experience and thousands of happy patients. What changes do you plan in 2018? Dr. Hoffman will be focusing on his core specialties of integrative cardiovascular care, Lyme disease and women’s health. The clinic will be focusing on education and community outreach. Additionally, we will be working on telemedicine experiences for those outside our local area that need care. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? For 20 years, Dr. Hoffman and his staff have been dedicated to bringing the most comprehensive natural medical care in the area. If you are looking for a full-service natural medicine clinic that can provide everything a medical office can—including in-office lab testing, holistic programs and a caring staff—this is the clinic for you.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

Nancy S. Scherlong, LCSW, PTR, M/S

Practice summary/services offered: I offer life, wellness and creativity coaching as well as experiential and holistic psychotherapy. I utilize techniques such as EMDR and brainspotting, IFS, SE, and expressive arts-based groups and workshops. What drew you to this profession? Originally an artist, I have been a psychotherapist for 20 years. I began helping others after my own recovery from an automobile accident in 1991; I received many of the methods I now use with my clients. How does your work differ from others in your profession? My work is strength-based and focused on positive psychology and creative problem solving. I will help you find and express your own unique voice through journal work, poetry and psychodrama. What should a client expect from working with you? My philosophy is that we can all change our lives by changing our story or mindset. Once we have shifted how we view things, we can approach them in a new and fresh way. What changes do you plan in 2018? I find I am teaching more and more workshops, facilitating groups and providing training in person, online and at conferences. Consultation services to professionals is also an exciting addition to my business. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? Healing is a collaboration or a partnership involving mind, body and spirit as well as a chosen practitioner. Contact me today for a free discovery session about how we can work together to achieve your goals! See ad, page 53.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Natural Health and Wellness Center Lisa Singley, ND, MS 2103 Main St, Stratford 203-874-4333 Info@NHAWC.com NHAWC.com

Practice summary/ services offered: We integrate advanced, scientificbased diagnostic testing with safe, clinically effective treatment options to treat the mind, body and spirit. We specialize in endocrine disorders, digestive issues, pain management, chronic fatigue, and acute and chronic conditions. What drew you to this profession? A strong interest in science and 10 years of experience in the field of medical research, combined with some personal health challenges, led me to explore many questions about health, healing and wellness. My goal is to restore and optimize health to allow people to live to their full potential. How does your work differ from others in your profession? Our areas of specialty include acute and chronic illnesses, preventive health and healthy lifestyle practices, adrenal, thyroid, women’s health, diabetes, insomnia, stress-related illnesses, infertility, weight loss difficulties, digestive disorders, pain management, chronic fatigue, allergies, asthma, eczema, acupuncture, and biofeedback. What changes do you plan in 2018? We will be offering more classes focused on facilitating healthy lifestyle practices. We are introducing frequency specific microcurrent therapy, which is useful for a number of applications including pain management. Other services include women’s health and annual exams and genetic testing options. What should a patient expect from working with you? We provide a caring, compassionate environment where we take the time to really listen to our patients’ concerns and offer safe, effective solutions and comprehensive health care to prevent illness and maintain optimal health for the body, mind and spirit. See ad, page 49.

With ONE treatment BENEFIT from DUAL therapies WHOLE BODY VIBRATION & SAUNA HEAT Facilitates toxin release Stimulates fascial receptors Improves circulation Reduces aches & pains Faster muscle recovery Improves overall relaxation

430 Main Avenue, Norwalk | 203-857-1500 www.kure-spa.com | Intro Price: 3 sessions for $90 "Vibrosaun's combination of whole body vibration and sauna heat stimulates the fascial receptors that cover all of the organs and muscles in our body. Stimulation of receptors is responsible for reducing pain and improving overall bodily function." Dr. Warren Hammer, DC, MS Certified Instructor in Fascial Manipulation ®

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Hilda demirjian laser and skin Care CenTers 508 Mamaroneck Ave. White Plains, NY 10605 (914) 686-2121 161 Madison Ave. Suite 3B New York, NY 10016 (212) 991-8566

www.hildademirjianlaser.com Natural Living Directory 2018

Corsello Chiropractic Clinic

wellness profiles

Mary Gilbertson Wellness

Mary Gilbertson, MS, BSN, CHHC Licensed RN/Nutritionist/Certified Health Coach Monroe 203-521-4733 MaryGilbertsonWellness@gmail.com MaryGilbertsonWellness.com Practice summary/ services offered: I have been practicing as a nurse for 30 years, much of this time in health promotion and education. My focus is mostly on integrative or functional medicine, addressing the root cause of illness and providing modalities for wellness. I started my nutrition and lifestyle medicine coaching practice in 2013 and continually enhance my education and offerings for my clients. Although trained to work with all ages, I especially love working with teenagers, and middle-aged men and women looking to mitigate disease or enhance their overall health. What drew you to this profession? During a medical nursing career spanning decades, I kept seeing a common theme emerge: the effects of chronic, degenerative disease and the dependence on drugs to treat conditions that were preventable with healthy lifestyle. I knew healthcare was going in the wrong direction, I decided to become part of a revolutionary change focused on health promotion for optimal wellness. How does your work differ from others in your profession? I have devoted myself to educating and empowering others on the importance of living a healthy lifestyle, on whole-foods nutrition, and living in a toxin-free environment for optimal wellness. I have a bachelor of science in nursing and a master’s degree in human nutrition. I am a certified nutrition specialist and a certified clinical nutritionist. In addition, I hold certificates in health coaching, stress management, detoxification and more. What should a client expect from working with you? In an initial, short, free phone consultation, I will address your specific needs or concerns. I use my varied knowledge and experience to support your efforts to change and work with other members of your healthcare team to ensure your success. See ad, page 91.

Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power. ~Abraham Lincoln 58

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

Edward C. Corsello, DC, BCAO 2021 Main St, Stratford 203-381-1800 Contact@CorselloClinic.com CorselloClinic.com

Practice summary/services offered: Our mission is to build healthy families for a lifetime of wellness in a loving and compassionate setting. We offer specialized techniques, including Atlas Orthogonal (AO) and spinal correction, as well as nutrition, cellular detoxification and weight loss. What drew you to this profession? I was first drawn to chiropractic while searching for answers for my own health. I suffered with ulcerative colitis for many years before learning that by doing the AO correction in conjunction with spinal remodeling techniques—which took pressure off my nervous system—I could become symptom-free without drugs or surgery. Now I use these powerful techniques to provide permanent relief to patients suffering with neck and back pain as well as many severe and chronic health conditions. How does your work differ from others in your profession? I am a board-certified AO doctor and trained in advanced spinal correction techniques. I am one of only two spinal correction specialists and only three AO doctors in the state of Connecticut. What should a client or patient expect from working with you? At your initial consultation, you will receive a comprehensive examination using computerized technology that can detect the hidden causes of your health problem and, if medically necessary, advanced biostructural digital X-rays. Treatment consists of specific, gentle techniques to remove nerve pressure. How is your practice/work evolving as you head into 2018? We are excited to offer the True Cellular Detox (TCD) cellular detoxification program, which is for the person who has the “perfect” diet but is still not getting the health results they desire. No matter how clean of a lifestyle we lead, toxins bombard us from all angles including the air, water, foods, clothing, radiation and even store receipts. True Cellular Detox is real and lasting because it occurs at the cellular level. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? Call us and mention Natural Awakenings to receive a discounted consultation with X-rays (usually $150 but $45 with this profile). We take health insurance and are currently accepting new patients. See ad, page 11.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Ingels Family Health

22 Fairfield Pl, Fairfield • 203-254-9957 • Info@DarinIngelsND.com • IngelsFamilyHealth.com Darin Ingels, ND, FAAEM • Jaquel Patterson, ND, MBA • Mark Sanders, ND Nina Manipon, ND • Jill C. Kenney, ND • Cindy Wechsler, APRN Practice summary/ services offered: Ingels Family Health is an integrative health center with five naturopathic doctors (NDs) and an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), each with their own areas of expertise. We specialize in Lyme disease, ADD/ADHD, PANDAS/ PANS, autism spectrum disorders, thyroid disorders, cardiovascular health and chronic immune dysfunction disorders (including allergies, asthma, autoimmune and other inflammatory conditions). Additional areas of focus include women’s health, bone/joint health, gastrointestinal conditions (ulcerative colitis, IBS, celiac disease, Crohn’s disease) and weight loss. Mental health areas include anxiety, depression, concussions and traumatic brain injuries.We offer well and acute pediatric visits; sports physicals; lactation consultations; nutrition and weight-loss counseling; management of constipation, eczema and fatigue; women’s health; and vaccine counseling.

How does your work differ from that of others in your profession? Our doctors are well-rounded in various natural treatment modalities. We offer thorough diagnostic testing and treatment using homeopathy, herbs, pharmaceutical-grade supplements, nutrition, acupuncture, cranial sacral therapy, low-dose immunotherapy and sublingual immunotherapy. What should a client or patient expect from working with you? Our patients (infants to adults) can expect a comprehensive evaluation and an individualized treatment plan and ongoing support for a full range of acute and chronic conditions. What changes do you plan in 2018? We are offering monthly talks on topics such as Lyme disease, autism, nutrition, weight loss, specific diseases (cardiovascular, migraines, chronic pain and others) and healthy lifestyles. We also offer hydrotherapy, craniosacral therapy and acupuncture, and soon will be adding healthy cooking classes. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? Our team has grown this past year. We are a diverse group of practitioners offering a patient-centered approach to your health. Our aim is to provide the least invasive, most effective form of treatment for you and your family. See ad, page 15.

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wellness profiles

Workspace Education

Roseann Capanna-Hodge & Associates

16 Trowbridge Dr, Bethel 203-409-2028 WorkspaceEducation.org

Practice summary/ services offered: Workspace Education is a vibrant and caring educational community of parents, students, educators and professionals. Families come to Workspace for truly custom educations for children in grades K-12. It has a culture that encourages students to find their voice and the freedom to design learning opportunities that are interdisciplinary and agile. Workspace delivers not only on the foundational literacies, but also enables children to pursue their passions and take on enormous projects. What drew you to this profession? The question we asked ourselves was if we were starting from scratch—designing the ultimate way to educate our kids—what would it look like? How does your work differ from others in your profession? Workspace was unbound in designing its innovative model for education. Fairfield County families now have access to education that applies the best of what the global learning revolution has to offer. Students acquire skills in communication, collaboration, creativity and critical thinking through project-based learning and real-world problem solving. What should a client expect from working with you? With a 32,000-square-foot, fully tech-enabled facility surrounded by 600 acres of green space, Workspace is a creative sandbox for students. Children develop an entrepreneurial mindset. With an affordable membership pricing model, a family of four pays $5,890 per year. What changes do you plan in 2018? Workspace is a community on a steady path of expansion and exploration. This year, the Community Growth project was launched to develop on-site sustainable farming. Plus, a culinary arts program with a commercial kitchen is in the planning stages. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? We regularly welcome new families to come in for a tour of our learning spaces. See ad, page 3.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

Roseann Capanna-Hodge, EdD, LPC, BCN, LLC Psychologist and Board-Certified Neurofeedback Practitioner 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ste 6, Ridgefield Satellite location in Newtown 203-438-4848 Info@DrRoseann.com • DrRoseann.com Practice summary/services offered: We work with children, adolescents, teens, adults and families around a variety of issues with nonmedication therapies. We provide brain-based treatments like neurofeedback, biofeedback, advanced bio-regulation therapy, hypnosis and EFT. What drew you to this profession? Becoming a psychologist has truly been my calling. Even as a very young child, I knew that was what I wanted to do. I love helping individuals and families with brain-based therapies that offer an alternative to medication. How does your work differ from others in your profession? I have been working in mental health for 25 years and in private practice for 16 years. Currently, we have a team of 14 professionals that support individuals and families with therapies that are bridged to neuroscience. I am a trained psychologist with three graduate degrees, including a doctorate in educational psychology. I am a certified school psychologist, a licensed professional counselor and am board-certified in neurofeedback. What should a client expect from working with you? We offer integrative, brain-based mental health support, which is different than traditional psychotherapy. The mental health system in our country is broken and medication is the primary tool in treatment. We help people achieve wellness with researchbased and effective therapies. We combine psycho-education and direct coaching, and couple it with highly effective, research-based tools and techniques that help relieve symptoms. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? Through constant training and following the latest research, our expert team is ahead of most of the therapy practices in the country. We support clients from all over the U.S., we provide the highest level of care that helps our clients get and stay better. See ad, page 33.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

FAIRFIELD COUNTY/HOUSATONIC VALLEY

2018 EDITORIAL CALENDAR

JAN

Vibrational Healing Chiropractic Care

Practitioner Profiles • Local Guide Available

Natural Living Directory

FEB

Health & Wellness Issue Natural Stress Relief

Special listings and Practitioner Profiles available

Healthy Food Issue

MAR APR

' MAY

In Your Backyard Super Spices & Ethnic Cuisine Nature’s Matrix Animal Wisdom

Women s Health Issue Natural Care First Life-Balance

Practitioner Profiles • Local Guide Available

JUNE

Creating Positive Patterns Natural Beauty

Practitioner Profiles Available

Nutrition Issue

JULY

Autoimmune Autopilot Inflammatory Triggers

Practitioner Profiles • Local Guide Available

AUG

Soulful Parenting Generational Healing

Body Movement Issue

SEPT

Expressive Arts & Movement Livable Communities

Practitioner Profiles

OCT

Chronic Pain Guide Joint Health

Practitioner Profiles • Local Guide Available

Health Defense Issue

NOV

Proactive Wellness Healthy Home

Practitioner Profiles Available

CONTACT Nicole Miale, Publisher NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com eNaturalAwakenings.com ph 203-885-4674 • fx 203-516-2392

DEC

Spirit of Community Reflection & Intention

Practitioner Profiles Available

IN EVERY ISSUE...

PLUS...

NATURALLY HEALTHY PET | INSPIRED TABLE | MASTERING YOGA Natural Living Directory 2018

NATURAL LIVING CMYK 1, 99, 1, 0

DIRECTORY 2018 CMYK 58, 79, 0, 0

Aleo – Bold CMYK: 72, 66, 65, 79

ACUPUNCTURE KURT BEIL, ND, LAC, MPH

72 North St, Ste 100A, Danbury 914-362-8315 DrKurt@earthlink.net HudsonValleyNaturalHealth.com Naturopathic and Chinese medicine for acute and chronic disease, including acupuncture, botanical medicine, cupping, moxa, homeopathy, nutritional and lifestyle counseling, mind-body medicine, ecotherapy and functional lab testing. Helpful for muscle/ joint pain and headaches, autoimmune disease, digestive disorders, mental health; boosting immune function; balancing hormones; tobacco addiction; and stress reduction. See ad, page 13.

INGRI BOE-WIEGAARD, LAC  Fairfield, Wilton, Bethel 203-259-1660 CTAcupuncture.com 25-year full-time practice

JAMPA STEWART, MSOM, LAC  Board Certified Acupuncturist Valley Spirit Wellness 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot 860-619-2788 ValleySpiritCoop.com

Concierge care for those suffering from pain, internal disorders, menstrual issues and menopause, infertility, depression and anxiety, insomnia, addiction, fatigue, tune-ups and more. Facial rejuvenation/ cosmetic acupuncture also offered. See ad, page 23.

ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE VINCENT FRASER, CST, CAT, SEP Craniosacral Therapy, Alexander Technique, Somatic Experiencing Greenwich and Norwalk 203-570-2059 Vincent@VincentFraser.com

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

Ingri’s treatments help alleviate pain, depression, neck and back, anxiety, headaches, stress, allergies, asthma, arthritis, digestive, menstrual, infertility, smoking and weight-loss issues. See ad, page 79.

KARA ACUPUNCTURE & WELLNESS Laura Shahinian Kara, MS, LAc Dipl 268 Greenwood Ave, Bethel 8 Lincoln St, Westport 203-470-7072 LauraKara@AcuLaura.com AcuLaura.com

Kara Acupuncture & Wellness specializes in Japanese acupuncture, sports medicine acupuncture and acupuncture physical medicine, which is an acupuncture style that combines elements from both classical acupuncture and Western physical medicine. See ad, page 24.

APOTHECARY CENTRE FOR NATURAL HEALING 35 Wall St, Norwalk 203-857-0202 CentreHealingCT.com

Modern-day apothecary offering tinctures, teas, essential oils, and professional supplements. Services include custom herbal compounding. Our wellness boutique features items for wellness, beauty, and home, as well as artisanal items including jewelry, healing crystals, and ceremonial items for sacred ritual.

BIOFEEDBACK

P R O X I M A N O VA – S E M I B O L D CMYK: 72, 66, 65, 79

ADAM BREINER, ND

The NeuroEdge Brain Performance Center Division of Whole-Body Medicine Full ColorHwy E, Ste 108, Fairfield One Color 501 Kings 203-371-8258 TheNeuroEdge.com The NeuroEdge is dedicated to keeping your brain sharp and high-functioning. We treat head injuries and brain traumas—such as concussion and stroke—as well as help athletes, students and businesspeople improve their performance. Learn and view our cutting-edge neurotherapies at TheNeuroEdge.com. See ad, page 2.

ROSEANN CAPANNA-HODGE, EDD, LPC, BCN, LLC 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield Offices in Ridgefield and Newtown 203-438-4848 Info@DrRoseann.com DrRoseann.com

Advanced Bio-Regulation (BRT) is a unique approach to health and wellness that uses Biofeedback and PEMF-based Electromagnetic Technology to help the body better self-regulate, adapt and heal naturally. It is used for chronic pain, depression, anxiety, hormonal issues, Lyme, etc. See ad, page 33.

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, non-invasive, FDA registered. See ad, page 29.

Meditation makes the entire nervous system go into a field of coherence. ~Deepak Chopra 62

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE LLC

501 Kings Hwy E, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 WholeBodyMed.com Breast cancer screening with medical-grade thermography is safe and noninvasive. We are pleased to have ThermaScan, the world’s premier source for the analysis and reporting of medical thermology, available at our health center. Early detection matters. See ad, page 2.

CANCER COACH JULIE JOHNS, MS, CHES, ICF/ACC Cancer Journey Certified Coach, Integrative Nutrition Health Coach 845-328-1779 JulieJ@TheCancerJourney.com TheCancerJourney.com/Julie-Johns

Julie’s coaching supports those affected by cancer (whether they have cancer, or are survivors or caregivers) by helping them to make profound changes in perspective so that they can live their lives with meaning and grace.

natural living glossary Acupressure: Based on the same system as acupuncture, but fingers and hands are used instead of stimulation with needles in order to restore the balanced flow of the body’s life energy (qi or chi, pronounced “chee”). This force moves through the body along 12 energy pathways, or meridians, which practitioners unblock and strengthen. Acupuncture: An ancient Oriental technique that stimulates the body’s ability to sustain and balance itself, based on the theory that an electromagnetic life-force (qi or chi, pronounced “chee”) is channeled in a continuous flow throughout the body via a network of meridians. Disease is understood as an imbalance in the meridian system. Diagnosis of an imbalance is made by “reading” the pulse, face, tongue and body energy. To correct it, a practitioner inserts acupuncture needles at specific points along the meridians to stimulate or disperse the flow of life-force.

CHIROPRACTIC PETER BRAGLIA, DC

True Health Family Chiropractic 7365 Main St, Stratford 203-923-8633 TrueHealthCT.com As a member of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association, Dr. Braglia has received advanced training in Pediatric Adjusting and Prenatal Care, including the Webster Technique. We are proud to serve patients from all over Fairfield and New Haven Counties with our unique and gentle approach to health care. See ad, page 20.

Alexander Technique: A system of re-educating the body and mind to support and facilitate proper posture and ease of movement. Through gentle manual guidance, accompanied by verbal directions, the Alexander teacher coaches the student to become aware of unnecessary tension and to unlearn long-standing patterns of movement. The Alexander technique is an established method for helping to improve chronic conditions, including: back, shoulder or neck pain; nervous tension; poor coordination; breathing problems; and vocal strain. It is frequently used by athletes and performing artists to improve performance level.

CORSELLO CLINIC OF CHIROPRACTIC

Aromatherapy: An ancient healing art that uses the essential oils of herbs and flowers to treat emotional disorders, such as stress, anxiety and a wide range of other ailments. Oils are massaged into the skin, inhaled or added to a water bath. Often used in conjunction with massage therapy, acupuncture, reflexology, herbology, chiropractic or other holistic treatments.

Offering specialized chiropractic services, including Atlas Orthogonal and advanced techniques to heal the spine and nervous system, as well as physical therapy, nutrition and weight loss. Our unique, holistic approach focuses on correcting the cause of your health concerns. See ad, page 11.

Art Therapy: Uses the creative process of making art to improve and enhance physical, mental and emotional well-being, and to deepen self-awareness. The therapist makes a diagnosis and determines treatment plans by encouraging a client to express his or her feelings and unconscious thoughts through the nonverbal creative process and by observing the forms and content created.

2021 Main St, Stratford 203-381-1800 CorselloClinic.com

Astrology: A system of traditions and beliefs that holds that the relative positions of celestial bodies either directly influence life on Earth or correspond to events experienced on a human scale. Modern astrologers define astrology as a symbolic language, art form and type of

divination that can provide information about personality and human affairs, aid in the interpretation of past and present events, and predict the future. Ayurveda: The oldest medical system known to man and a comprehensive spiritual teaching practiced in India for 4,000 years. It focuses on achieving and maintaining perfect health via the balance of the elements air, fire and water (illness is considered an excess of any element). A patient’s body type—determined according to ayurvedic principles—is the basis for individualized dietary regimens and other preventive therapeutic interventions. Bioenergetics: A psychotherapy that works through the body to engage the emotions. Performing specified postures and exercises causes the release of layers of chronic muscular tension and defensiveness, termed “body armor”. The unlocking of feelings creates the opportunity for understanding and integrating them. Biofeedback: A relaxation technique that monitors internal body states. It is used especially for stress-related conditions. Such as asthma, migraines, insomnia and high blood pressure. During biofeedback, patients monitor minute metabolic changes (e.g., temperature, heart rate and muscle tension) with the aid of sensitive machines. By consciously thinking, visualizing, moving and relaxing, they learn which activities produce desirable changes in the internal processes being monitored. Bodywork: Massage and the physical practices of yoga are perhaps the best-known types of bodywork; both have proven successful in relieving tension and stress, promoting blood flow, loosening stiff muscles, and stimulating the organs. Massage therapies encompass countless techniques, including Swedish massage, shiatsu and Rolfing. The same is true for yoga. Finding bodywork that improves mental and physical health is a highly individual process. Several types may be combined for the greatest benefit.

Chelation therapy: A safe, painless, nonsurgical medical procedure that improves metabolic and circulatory function by removing undesirable heavy metals—such as lead, mercury, cadmium and copper—from the body. A series of intravenous injections of the synthetic amino acid EDTA are administered, usually in an osteopathic or medical doctor’s office. Over time, injections may halt the progress of the underlying condition that triggers the development of various degenerative conditions, such as diabetes, arthritis, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s ‘dis-eases”, and cancer. Natural Living Directory 2018

CHIROPRACTIC RISA SLOVES, DC

Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care 156 East Ave, Norwalk 203-838-1555 CTChiropractic.com Dr. Risa Sloves is one of 12 Chiropractic Physicians in Connecticut with Board Certification in Maternity and Pediatric Care including Webster and Bagnell Turning Techniques. Also provided: acupuncture, BioSET Allergy Elimination Technique and the DRX9000 Spinal Decompression. See ad, page 25.

COLLABORATIVE SERVICES BEING CENTERED: PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES, PLLC Ridgefield 203-614-1089 Info@Being-Centered.com Being-Centered.com

Dr. Teresa Reyes Castillo and Dr. Anna Huff are two licensed psychologists who believe in the increased benefit gained from multiple treatment modalities. Their integrative practice includes psychotherapy in collaboration with intuitive healers. See ad, page 12.

CLAIRVOYANT THERESA

Past Life Regression/Hypnotherapy Advanced Energy Healing and Reiki Training Medium/Clairvoyant 3rd Generational Ridgefield Health and Wellness Center, 109 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-448-7818 TMGaluszka@gmail.com Theresa is a 3rd generational Healer and Seer Luminary. She is a gifted Medium and Past Life Regressionist. Theresa uses her Master Level Reiki, Reflexology and Shiatsu combined with her own gifts of ancient and contemporary practices.

COACHING CARRIE BRADY

Possibilities Farm, Wilton 203-210-7484 LifeYouveImagined@gmail.com PossibilitiesFarm.com You can live the life you’ve imagined! Rediscover magic and joy, build confidence, and learn to thrive as the horses help reveal your hidden strengths and gifts. Turn challenges into stepping stones, and provide fresh perspectives on any situation. There is no riding involved and no prior horse experience necessary.

COLONICS

VINCENT FRASER, CST, CAT, SEP Craniosacral Therapy, Alexander Technique, Somatic Experiencing Greenwich and Norwalk 203-570-2059 Vincent@VincentFraser.com

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

CRYSTALS MOTHER EARTH GALLERY

COLONICS

914-921-LIFE (5433) LifelineHygienics.com Experience and personalized service you can trust. The finest in colonic irrigation and personal care. Serving the tri-state area since 1993.

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE LLC

501 Kings Hwy E, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 WholeBodyMed.com Good health depends as much upon how well we eliminate wastes from our bodies as it does upon how well we eat. Our physiciansupervised colonics promote relief from a variety of disturbances by gently cleansing the colon and opening our body’s natural detoxification pathways. See ad, page 2.

CORPORATE TRAINING CARRIE BRADY

Possibilities Farm, Wilton 203-210-7484 LifeYouveImagined@gmail.com PossibilitiesFarm.com Harness the untapped potential of your organization or team at Possibilities Farm. Customdesigned half- or full-day workshops with horses stimulate innovative thinking, generate rapid breakthroughs, and produce powerful and longlasting results. There is no riding involved and no prior horse experience necessary.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY/ ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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

The area’s finest crystal shop for natural, polished and tumbled gemstones for healing or collecting. Handcrafted gemstone jewelry, candles, chimes and books as well as a showcase for local artisans. See ad, page 13.

DIVORCE SUPPORT TURNING POINT S.H.A.R.E. DIVORCE GROUP

JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield 203-438-3050 TurningPointShare.com Offering support, healing, advocacy, resources and education for women thinking about divorce, in the process of or recently divorced. Providing a safe, confidential, compassionate environment, information and guidance from highly qualified professionals, including legal, financial, therapeutic and spiritual counselors. Empowering women through this challenging experience and transition. See ad, page 28.

natural living glossary Chinese Medicine: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is one of the world’s oldest and most complete systems of holistic health care. It combines the use of medicinal herbs, acupuncture, food therapy, massage and therapeutic exercise, along with the recognition that wellness in mind, body and emotions depends on the harmonious flow of life-force energy (qi or chi, pronounced “chee”).

EDUCATION INSTITUTE FOR HOLISTIC HEALTH STUDIES

Western Connecticut State University Christel Autuori, RDH, RYT, MA, Director 181 White St, Danbury 203-837-8559 WCSU.edu/IHHS The mission of the IHHS is to provide the University and Greater Danbury area with an opportunity to engage in and explore different aspects of holistic and integrative health through programming and instruction. Programs include Wellness Wednesday lunchtime workshops, monthly meditation program, lecture series, health wellness and fitness fair.

WORKSPACE EDUCATION 16 Trowbridge Dr, Bethel 203-409-2028 WorkspaceEducation.org

Workspace Education is a vibrant community of parents, K-12 students, educators and professionals. With an authentic culture and the freedom to design custom educations, Workspace delivers not only on the foundational literacies, but also enables students to pursue their passions. See ad, page 3.

Chiropractic: Based on the premise that proper structural alignment permits free flow of nerve activity in the body. When spinal vertebrae are out of alignment, they put pressure on the spinal cord and the nerves radiating from it, potentially leading to diminished function and illness. Misalignment can be caused by physical trauma, poor posture and stress. Colon therapy: An internal bath that washes away old toxic waste accumulated along the walls of the colon. It is administered with pressurized water by a professional using special equipment. One colonic irrigation is the equivalent of approximately four to six enemas; it cleans out matter that collects in the pockets and kinks of the colon. The treatment is used as both a corrective process and for prevention of disease. Color therapy: Color therapists believe that the vibrations of color waves can directly affect the body’s cells and organs. Thus, different hues can treat illnesses, and improve physical, emotional and spiritual health. Many practitioners also claim that the body emits an aura—or energy field—with colors reflecting a person’s state of health. Color therapists apply colored lights or apply color mentally, through suggestion, to restore the body’s physical and psychic health. Another related sensory healing technique is light therapy, which attempts to restore wellbeing and can be successful in treating seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Counseling/Psychotherapy: These terms encompass a broad range of practitioners, from career counselors—who offer advice and information—to psychotherapists treating depression, stress, addiction and emotional issues. Formats can vary from individual counseling to group therapy. In addition to

verbal counseling techniques, some holistic therapists may use bodywork, ritual, energy healing and other alternative modalities as part of their practice. Craniosacral therapy (CST): A manual therapeutic procedure to remedy distortions in the structure and function of the craniosacral mechanism—the brain and spinal cord, the bones of the skull, the sacrum and interconnected membranes. Craniosacral work is based upon two major premises: that the bones of the skull can be manipulated—because they never completely fuse—and that the pulse of the cerebrospinal fluid can be balanced by a practitioner trained to detect variations in that pulse. CST is used to treat chronic pain, migraine headaches, temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), ear and eye problems, balance problems, learning difficulties, dyslexia, and hyperactivity. Crystal and gem therapy: Practitioners use quartz crystals and gemstones for therapeutic and healing purposes, asserting that the substances have recognizable energy frequencies and the capacity to amplify other frequencies in the body. They also absorb and store frequencies, and can essentially be programmed to help affect healing.

Dance/movement therapy: A method of expressing thoughts and feelings through movement, developed during the 1940s. Participants, guided by trained therapists, are encouraged to move freely, sometimes to music. Dance/movement therapy can be practiced by people of all ages to promote self-esteem and gain insight into their own emotional problems; it is also used to help those with serious mental and physical disabilities.

Transform your life —The Mind: your most powerful tool. Your subconscious mind has the answers to recognize and achieve what you want and need. ǊsĶ ǼÞŸŘǣÌÞƼǣʳʳʳɠÌ Ǽ _Ÿ Ý _Ÿ ŘŸɠʷ ɟsÞ¶ÌǼ ĶŸǣǣʳʳʳOĶÞsŘǼǣ ĶŸǣs ɠsÞ¶ÌǼ s ǣÞĶɴʳ ǢǼǋsǣǣ Ŏ Ř ¶sŎsŘǼʳʳʳÞŘ OŸŘǼǋŸĶʰ O ĶŎʳ rŎŸǼÞŸŘ Ķ Ǽǋ ȖŎ ʳʳʳǋsĶs ǣÞŘ¶ ǼÌs s¯¯sOǼǣ Ÿ¯ Ǽǋ ȖŎ ʳ EȖǣsʳʳʳǋsOŸ¶ŘÞʊsʰ ǣǼŸƼʰ ¶Ÿ ¯Ÿǋɠ ǋ_ʳ ƻ ÞŘ OŸŘǼǋŸĶʳʳʳƼÌɴǣÞO Ķʰ sŎŸǼÞŸŘ Ķʰ OÌǋŸŘÞOʰ OȖǼsʳ Ës ĶÞŘ¶ ŎsŎŸǋÞsǣʳʳʳĶsǼǼÞŘ¶ ¶Ÿʳ

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NsǋǼÞ¯Þs_ Ǌs¶ÞǣǼsǋs_ NŸŘǣȖĶǼÞŘ¶ ËɴƼŘŸǼÞǣǼ NsǋǼÞ¯Þs_ ƻǋŸ¯sǣǣÞŸŘ Ķ NŸ OÌ NsǋǼÞ¯Þs_ ǊsĶ ǼÞŸŘǣÌÞƼ NŸ OÌ NsǋǼÞ¯Þs_ Dsǋs ɚsŎsŘǼ NŸ OÌ r®ǻ ƻǋ OǼÞǼÞŸŘsǋ ● ǊsÞĨÞ ƻǋ OǼÞǼÞŸŘsǋ ōsŘǼ Ķ ®ÞǼŘsǣǣ NŸ OÌ Veterans’ Stress Project Coach

Althea Founder and director of Universal Intelligence, LLC 203.451.3383

Call today for a FREE consultation 203.451.3383 Redding CT. ● universalintelligence.info ● support@universalintelligence.info Natural Living Directory 2018

natural living glossary Decluttering: Based on the theory that clutter drains both physical and mental energy, decluttering involves two components. The first focuses on releasing things (clothing, papers, furniture, objects and ideas) that no longer serve a good purpose in one’s life. The second focuses on creating a simple system of personal organization that is easy to maintain and guards against accumulating things that are neither necessary nor nourishing. Dentistry (Holistic): Regards the mouth as a microcosm of the entire body. The oral structures and the whole body are seen as a unit. Holistic dentistry often incorporates such methods as homeopathy, biocompatibility testing and nutritional counseling. Most holistic dentists emphasize wellness and preventive care, while avoiding and often recommending the removal of silver-mercury fillings.

Detoxification: The practice of resting, cleansing and nourishing the body from the inside out. According to some holistic practitioners, accumulated toxins can drain the body of energy and make it more susceptible to disease. Detoxification techniques may include fasts, special diets, sauna sweats and colon cleansing. Doula (Birth): A woman who supports an expectant mother through pregnancy, labor, birth and the postpartum period. Studies indicate that support in labor has profound benefits, including shorter labor, less desire for pain medication, lower rate of cesarean section delivery, and more ease in initiation of breastfeeding. Doula (End-of-life): A person who works with a dying person and their family to create the end-of-life experience that best suits the patient and the family. Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT): A self-help procedure founded by Gary Craig that combines fingertip tapping of key acupuncture meridian points while focusing on an emotional issue or health challenge. Unresolved or “stuck” negative emotions, caused by a disruption in the body’s energy system, are seen as major contributors to most physical pains and diseases. EFT is easy to memorize and portable, so it can be done anywhere. Energy field work: The art and practice of realigning and re-attuning the body between the physical, and the etheric and auric fields to assist in natural healing processes. Working directly with the energy field in and around the body, the practitioner channels and directs energy into the cells, tissues and organs of the patient’s body to affect healing on physical and nonphysical levels simultaneously. Sessions may or may not involve the physical laying on of hands. 66

ENERGY HEALING Environmental medicine: Explores the role of dietary and environmental allergens in health and illness. Factors such as dust, mold, chemicals and certain foods may cause allergic reactions that can dramatically influence diseases, ranging from asthma and hay fever to headaches and depression. Enzyme therapy: Can be an important first step in restoring health and well-being by helping to remedy digestive problems. Plant and pancreatic enzymes are used in complementary ways to improve digestion and absorption of essential nutrients. Treatment includes enzyme supplements, coupled with a healthy diet that features whole foods. Feldenkrais method: Helps students straighten out what founder Moshe Feldenkrais calls, “kinks in the brain.” Kinks are learned movement patterns that may have been adopted to compensate for a physical injury or to accommodate individuality in the social world. Students unlearn unworkable movements and discover better, personalized ways to move, using mind-body principles of slowed action, breathing, awareness and thinking about their feelings. Feng shui: The ancient Chinese system of arranging man-made spaces and elements to create or facilitate harmonious qi or chi (pronounced “chee”)—or energy flow—by tempering or enhancing the energy where necessary. Feng shui consultants can be an asset to both personal and business spaces, either before or after the spaces are created. Flower remedies: Flower essences are recognized for their ability to improve wellbeing by eliminating negative emotions. In the 1930s, English physician Edward Bach concluded that negative emotions could lead to physical illness. His research also convinced him that flowers possessed healing properties that could be used to treat emotional problems. In the 1970s, Richard Katz completed Bach’s work and established the Flower Essence Society, which has registered some 100 essences from flowers in more than 50 countries.

JENNIFER L. HERNANDEZ, MAT Certified Energy Healer 203-583-1485 Me@JenniferLHernandez.com JenniferLHernandez.com

Jennifer is a certified energy healer and doctoral student specializing in metaphysical science. She provides the following modalities to help children and adults heal: EFT, Reiki, crystal healing, 13th Octave LaHoChi, chakra balancing, angel readings, life coaching and more.

BETH LEAS

Transformative Healing • Tarot 203-856-9566 BethLeas.com TLCTarot.com If not now, when? Inspire change on all levels—greater physical ease, emotional freedom, peace of mind and spiritual connection. 20 years intuitive healing experience with adults and children of all ages. Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tarot. See ad, page 71.

MYSTICAL ROOTS

Elaine Cirillo, RS, Teacher/Practitioner Rye, Larchmont, Scarsdale, NY 914-261-0108 MysticalRoots.org A Rising Star session works on one chakra a day for 21 days. It works by directing energy through the client’s chakra system—working on all levels and the 5 elements—so that your entire being can start to balance and heal.

RS HOLISTIC COUNSELING & HEALING

Rebecca Schoenewolf, LPC, LMHC, RMT 152 Deer Hill Ave, Ste 119, Danbury 203-826-2558 RSHolisticServices.com

Functional medicine: A personalized medicine that focuses on primary prevention and deals with underlying causes, instead of symptoms, for serious chronic diseases. Treatments are grounded in nutrition and improved lifestyle habits and may make use of medications. The discipline uses a holistic approach to analyze and treat interdependent systems of the body and to create the dynamic balance integral to good health.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Rebecca, a holistic LPC, LMHC and Usui/Holy Fire Master/ teacher, has been studying and practicing energy healing modalities for over 15 years. In sessions, clients receive healing through a unique combination of Reiki, crystals, meditation, pendulum, vibrational healing and more. In addition to individual healing sessions, she offers a 90-minute session combining energy healing with mental health counseling/coaching. See ad, page 24.

SOUL HEALING JOURNEY, LLC Eilis Philpott 40 Livingston St, Fairfield 203-767-5954 Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com SoulHealingJourney.com

Eilis is a certified Rebirther having completed Rebirthing and Advanced Rebirthing training. She is a certified Soul Language practitioner and is certified in Akashic Field therapy. She is a Reiki Master in Usui/Raku-kei Reiki and Angelic Reiki. She is an approved teacher for 13th Octave LaHoChi. A transformational healing session supports you in healing all aspects of your life. See ad, page 26.

FENG SHUI FENG SHUI FOR TODAY

Christine Persche, MLIS, LEED AP PO Box 386, Waccabuc, NY 914-671-7523 FlowFengShui.com Our living and working spaces profoundly affect the quality of our lives. Feng shui energizes your design choices to vitalize your health, wealth and well-being. On-site or online consultations offered.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE MARK JOACHIM, DC, FIAMA

Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care 156 East Ave, Norwalk 203-838-1555 CTNutritionCenter.com Dr. Joachim has been in private practice since 1990, specializing in nutrition, natural allergy elimination and functional medicine. Through specialized testing, he identifies subtle changes in individual physiology which may be at the root of troubling symptoms. Addressing the underlying dysfunction can help you feel better, for good. See ad, page 53.

TAMARA SACHS, MD

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

HEALING CENTER THE RUBY TREE

Metaphysical Shop and Healing Space Sherman Village, 670 Main St S, Woodbury 203-586-1655 TheRubyTreeCT.com Rocks and crystals, magical objects, singing bowls, herbal candles and more. Local artisans, an array of holistic practitioners, a monthly Mystical Market fair, regularly scheduled psychics/ mediums/intuitives, yoga, meditation, and workshops galore—all to enhance the health of your mind, body and spirit. See ad, page 82.

TURNING POINT HEALING ARTS & EDUCATION CENTER JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield 203-438-3050 TurningPointReiki.com

HEALTH AND WELLNESS JAMES LANDERS AND JEANNETTE STELLATO

ReikiOvertones LLC dba Jikiden Reiki Connecticut 95 Harris St, Fairfield 203-254-3958 ReikiOvertones@sbcglobal.net JikidenReiki@gmail.com ReikiOvertones.com Jim and Jeannette live in Fairfield, where they practice Jikiden Reiki exclusively. They offer training seminars and opportunities for students to practice and review. They organize events for guest lectures, staff and students. They also established volunteer Reiki programs in nursing/ health care facilities where students participate.

HEALTH COACH MARY GILBERTSON, WELLNESS Mary Gilbertson, MS, BSN, CHHC Licensed RN, Nutritionist and Certified Health Coach 238 Monroe Tpke, Monroe 203-521-4733 MaryGilbertsonWellness@gmail.com MaryGilbertsonWellness.co

Using the concept of “Food as Medicine” to create your customized nutrition and lifestyle plan for whole living. Working one-on-one, in groups and in corporations to develop customized healthy lifestyle plans. Works with patients on metabolism and weight loss, detoxification, gut health, cancers, inflammatory conditions and stress management. See ad, page 91.

TPHA&EC is a central resource for healthy living and wellness in Ridgefield, CT. This vibrant, serene, HEALING ARTS & EDUCATION CENTER energetically positive center is Heal. Enlighten. Renew. home to skilled practitioners and teachers offering holistic services and educational programs to empower and enhance both the individual and the community. See ad, page 28.

NA Fun Fact: Natural Awakenings is published in more than 85 U.S. markets, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. To advertise with us, call 203-885-4674.

Natural Living Directory 2018

natural living glossary Guided imagery and creative visualization: Uses positive thoughts, images and symbols to focus the mind on the workings of the body to accomplish a particular goal, desired outcome or physiological change, such as pain relief or healing of disease. This flow of thought can take many forms and, through the imagination, involve all the physical senses. Healing touch: A non-invasive, relaxing and nurturing energy therapy that helps to restore physical, emotional, mental and spiritual balance, and support self-healing. A gentle touch is used on or near the fully clothed client to influence the body’s inner energy centers and exterior energy fields. Healing touch is used to ease acute and chronic conditions, assist with pain management, encourage deep relaxation and accelerate wound healing. Herbal medicine: This oldest form of medicine uses natural plants in a wide variety of forms for their therapeutic value. Herbs produce and contain various chemical substances that act upon the body to strengthen its natural functions without the negative side effects of synthetic drugs. They may be taken internally or applied externally via teas, tinctures, extracts, oils, ointments, compresses and poultices.

Homeopathy: A therapy that uses small doses of specially prepared plants and minerals to stimulate the body’s defense mechanisms and healing processes in order to cure illness. Homeopathy, taken from the Greek words homeos, meaning “similar”, and pathos, meaning “suffering”, employs the concept that “like cures like”. A remedy is individually chosen for a person based on its capacity to cause, if given in an overdose, physical and psychological symptoms similar to those the patient is experiencing. Hydrotherapy: The use of water, ice, steam, and hot and cold temperatures to maintain and restore health. Treatments include fullbody immersion, steam baths, saunas, sitz baths, colonic irrigation, and the application of hot and/or cold compresses. Hydrotherapy is effective for treating a wide range of conditions and can easily be used at home as part of a selfcare program. Hypnotherapy: A range of hypnosis techniques that allow practitioners to bypass the conscious mind and access the subconscious. The altered state that occurs under hypnosis has been compared to a state of deep meditation or transcendence, in which the innate recuperative 68

HERBALISM abilities of the psyche are allowed to flow more freely. The subject can achieve greater clarity regarding his or her own wants and needs, explore other events or periods of life that require resolution, or generally develop a more positive attitude. Integrative medicine: This holistic approach combines conventional Western medicine with complementary alternative treatments in order to simultaneously treat mind, body and spirit. Geared to the promotion of health and the prevention of illness, it neither rejects conventional medicine nor accepts alternative therapies, without serious evaluation.

TWIN STAR HERBAL EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY APOTHECARY 57 Bank St, New Milford 860-350-0077 TwinStarHerbInfo@gmail.com TwinStarTribe.com

Twin Star Herbal Education and Community Apothecary offers a myriad of classes and trainings on herbalism and energy studies. Our most popular herbal training course, Foundations of Herbalism, begins in March. Twin Star Apothecary carries hundreds of organic herbs, natural remedies and specialty healing products. We also host a variety of practitioners including community herbalists, astrologers and tarot readers. In addition, we offer annual “plant healer tours” in both Central America and Europe.

HOLISTIC DENTIST Intuitive arts: A general term for various methods of divination, such as numerology, psychic reading and tarot reading. Individuals may consult practitioners to seek information about the future or insights into personal concerns or their personality. Numerology emphasizes the significance of numbers derived from the spelling of names, birth dates and other significant references; psychics may claim various abilities, from finding lost objects and persons to communicating with the spirits of the dead. Tarot readers interpret a deck of cards containing archetypal symbols. Iridology: Analysis of the delicate structure of the iris, the colored portion of the eye, to reveal information about conditions within the body. More than 90 specific zones on each iris—for a combined total of more than 180 zones— correspond to specific areas of the body. Because body weaknesses are often noticeable in the iris long before they are discernible through blood work or other laboratory analysis, iridology can be a useful tool for preventive self-care. Jin Shin (or Jin Shin Jyutsu): A gentle, noninvasive, energy-balancing art and philosophy that embodies a life of simplicity, calmness, patience and self-containment. Practitioners employ simple acupressure techniques, using their fingers and hands on a fully-clothed client to help eliminate stress, create emotional equilibrium, relieve pain, and alleviate acute or chronic conditions. Kinesiology/applied kinesiology: The study of muscles and their movement. Applied kinesiology tests the relative strength and weakness of selected muscles to identify decreased function in body organs and systems, as well as imbalances and restrictions in the body’s energy flow. Some tests use acupuncture meridians and others analyze interrelationships among muscles, organs, the brain and the body’s energy field. Applied kinesiology is also used to check the body’s response to treatments that are being considered.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

WHOLE BODY DENTISTRY

Mark A Breiner, DDS 501 Kings Hwy East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-0300 WholeBodyDentistry.com Mark Breiner, DDS, is a pioneer and recognized authority in the field of holistic dentistry. His patients have found solutions to baffling, unresolved and seemingly unrelated dentalrelated health problems. He is the author of the award-winning book, Whole-Body Dentistry. See ad, page 2.

HOLISTIC EDUCATION DEANA PAQUA, MA, LMT Embody the Sacred Ridgefield and New Milford 203-994-5045 EmbodyTheSacred.net

Heal yourself with holistic tools for pain, trauma and stress relief. Experience self-empowerment and self-healing through classes in Reiki, mind/body healing, Andean energy medicine, shamanic and cross-cultural healing. Get your health, energy and spirit back. See ad, page 41.

HYPNOSIS HEALING TREE WISDOM

Thea Litsios, CHy Locations in Norwalk and Stratford 203-693-1493 HealingTreeWisdom.com

HOLISTIC HEALING KATHERINE J. SCOVILLE, DO, PC 311 North Street, Ste 307 White Plains, NY 10605 914-358-9559

Osteopathic medicine harnesses the self-regulating and selfhealing power of the body, mind and spirit. Dr. Scoville provides holistic hands-on treatment for newborns, children and adults, helping to preserve and restore the patient’s own healing capacity.

HOLISTIC LIFE COACHING JENNIFER L. HERNANDEZ, MAT Certified Energy Healer 203-583-1485 Me@JenniferLHernandez.com JenniferLHernandez.com

Jennifer is a certified energy healer and doctoral student specializing in metaphysical science. She offers customized healing sessions and life/ academic coaching for children struggling academically, socially and emotionally. Additionally, she provides life/ career coaching for adults seeking spiritual and emotional guidance.

HOLISTIC NURSE PRACTITIONER JOY HERBST, RN, APRN, MSN, CPC, CYT 500 Barefoot Living Arts 85 Mill Plain Rd, Fairfield 203-640-0530 JoyHerbst.com

Joy Herbst is a holistic nurse practitioner and expert in empowered, integrative recovery. She blends the healing modalities of Ayurveda, functional medicine and yoga to help women find an optimal and unique blueprint for vibrant and sober living.

Use the power of your whole mind to transform your life: Hypnosis for weight loss, smoking cessation, stress relief, and past life review. Certified teacher of Active Dream work. Individual dream consultations available, as well as workshops and monthly Dream Groups. See ad, page 45.

LOVE, SEX, INTIMACY

Dr. Inessa Zaleski, DD, CMCH 203-708-7777 Dr.Inessa@Calmness.com Calmness.com/LSI SolveSexualIssues.com Dr. Inessa Zaleski is an author, self-improvement expert and a hypnotherapy instructor. She leads workshops and retreats in the field of Love, Sex and Intimacy: The Art of Touch for couples; Men’s and Women’s Self Mastery and more. Dr. Inessa offers practical guidance on utilizing our inherent sexuality to enrich our everyday lives. See ad, page 41.

MIND-BODY TRANSFORMATION Diane Bahr-Groth, CHy, TFTdx 1177 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-595-0110 MindBodyTransformation.com

Fast, effective methods for weight, stress, fear, pain, smoking, etc. Certified Hypnotherapist, Thought Field Therapy, Time Line Therapy, NLP and Complementary Medical Hypnosis, since 1989. See ads, pages 79 and 91.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PHYSICIAN DARIEN INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE

Michael E. Doyle, MD Conventional and Alternative Medicine 6 Thorndal Cir, #102, Darien 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 83.

HENRY C. SOBO, MD

Optimal Health Medical LLC 111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-348-8805 DrSobo.com Advances in Regenerative Medicine allow Dr. Sobo to offer cutting-edge technologies such as PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) treatments and adult stem cell therapy. Dr. Sobo’s integrative approach addresses a variety of conditions such as: Ffood allergies; Alzheimer’s/ dementia; chronic fatigue syndrome; weight loss; hormonal health; fibromyalgia; anti-aging medicine; and MTHFR-Genetic Mutation. See ad, page 27.

INTEGRATIVE NATURAL MEDICINE SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER

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

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE LLC Adam Breiner, ND, Director David Brady, ND, CCN, DACBN David Johnston, DO Elena Sokolova, MD, ND 203-371-8258 WholeBodyMed.com

Using state-of-the-art science combined with holistic medicine, our caring integrative physicians correct underlying imbalances and address issues which may interfere with the body’s ability to heal itself. We treat many conditions including Lyme disease, fibromyalgia, immune disorders, allergies, thyroid conditions, pain, neurological conditions, stroke, concussion, ADD/ADHD, depression, insomnia and more. We offer hyperbaric oxygen, neurofeedback and neurotherapies, osteopathic medicine, functional medicine, IV nutrient and chelation therapy, energetic medicine, homeopathy, Japanese Reiki, nutrition, colonics and detoxification, enhanced brain, athletic, scholastic performance, and more. See ad, page 2.

Natural Living Directory 2018

INSPIRATIONAL BOUTIQUE THE ANGEL COOPERATIVE

Purveyors of Positivity 51 Ethan Allen Hwy (Route 7), Ridgefield 203-431-2959 • TheAngelCoop.com A unique lifestyle boutique featuring the first Shungite room in the U.S., The Angel Cooperative has products and experiences designed to care for your body and soul while also offering beautiful and healing goods for the home. We offer a regular schedule of workshops, meditations, classes, and other holistic and spiritual events. See ad, page 21.

INTEGRATIVE OPTOMETRY EYECARE ASSOCIATES, PC

Dr. Randy Schulman, MS, OD, FCOVD Locations: 6515 Main St, Trumbull • 203-374-2020 444 Westport Ave, Norwalk • 203-840-1991 2600 Post Rd, Southport • 203-255-4005 1425 Bedford St, 1M, Stamford • 203-357-0204 CTEyeCareAssociates.com We offer behavioral optometry, comprehensive vision exams, contact lenses and vision therapy. See ad, page 24.

INTUITIVE CONSULTANT

JEWELRY PRECIOUSCHAKRA.COM

Beautiful Inspirational Jewelry 917-426-6645 Precious Chakra jewelry is an inspirational and meditative yoga jewelry line. Our beautiful jewelry includes necklaces, bracelets, earrings, charms, symbols and gemstones from around the world. Ancient and spiritual significance create this stunning and unique jewelry line.

JIKIDEN REIKI JAMES LANDERS AND JEANNETTE STELLATO

ReikiOvertones LLC dba Jikiden Reiki Connecticut 95 Harris St, Fairfield • 203-254-3958 ReikiOvertones@sbcglobal.net JikidenReiki@gmail.com ReikiOvertones.com Jim and Jeannette live in Fairfield where they practice Jikiden Reiki exclusively. They offer training seminars and opportunities for students to practice and review. They organize events for guest lectures, staff and students. They also established volunteer Reiki programs in nursing/ health care facilities where students participate.

JUICING

SARAH ROTELLA

Enlightenment Center, Integrative Wellness Therapies 100 Danbury Rd, Ste 102, Ridgefield Additional locations in Greenwich and Southbury • 203-525-5830 S.Light@mac.com • SenLightenment.com

COLD-PRESSED LIVING JUICE Holistic Spa and Yoga Studios 792 Route 35, Cross River, NY 914-763-6320 DrinkLivingJuice.com

As a spiritual and medical intuitive I can guide you on a path of awareness to help you to improved health, practical applications toward healing, more joy and heightened consciousness. The messages I receive are unique to the individual and are specific to that which serves you best. See ad, page 10.

Living Juice makes organic, cold-pressed fruit and vegetable juices with no water or sugar added. Visit our juicery and wellness center complete with yoga studios and holistic spa in Cross River, NY.

VICTORIA SHAW, PHD

ANDREA CANDEE, MH, MSC

Offices in Westport and Wilton 203-254-3403 • VictoriaShawIntuitive.com Drawing on both her intuitive abilities and training in psychology/counseling, Victoria can help you rediscover your life’s purpose, restore hope and improve the quality of life. Readings are always heartcentered and life-affirming. Common issues include life transitions, health and wellness, relationships, parenting, monetary and career issues, decision-making, self-improvement, and intuition development. See ad, page 83.

LYME & CO-INFECTIONS 20+ yrs successfully addressing Lyme 914-763-8889 AndreaCandee.com Antibiotic-resistant viruses cause chronic Lyme (brain fog, nerve disorders, headaches, joint/ muscle pain, fatigue). Neurological Strep affects children/adults causing tics, anxiety, OCD and more. Quantum Physics and 21st century science target and cancel pathogenic frequencies from body. Protocols are threepronged: vibrational frequencies, plus herbs, plus food guidance.

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MASSAGE AND BODYWORK JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER

2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 JiivaCenter.com We offer Traditional, Thai Massage and Prenatal massage. At Jiiva Massage, our goal is to provide our clients with a variety of experienced therapists and modalities to choose from. Our hope is to provide you with an assortment of different techniques so you can find what works best for your individual needs. See ad, page 31.

ROBIN ORDAN, LMT, LCSW, CICMI Licensed Massage Therapist and Reiki Practitioner Old Greenwich/Stamford 203-561-8535 RobinOrdanLMT.com

Robin has been providing massage and Reiki for over 15 years. Specializing in Swedish, pregnancy, trigger point, injuries and infant/child massage instruction. Sessions are individualized to meet your needs. See ad, page 13.

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

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

VALLEY SPIRIT WELLNESS

6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot 860-619-2788 ValleySpiritCoop.com Meditation can be easier to master than you think. Taoist, Buddhist and generic meditation. Beginners and experienced practitioners both welcome. See ad, page 23.

natural living glossary Magnetic field therapy: Electromagnetic energy and the human body have a vital and valid interrelationship, making it possible to use magnetic field therapy as an aid in diagnosing and treating physical and emotional disorders. This process is reported to relieve symptoms and may, in some cases, retard the cycle of new diseases. Magnets and electromagnetic therapy devices are now being used to eliminate pain, facilitate the healing of broken bones and counter the effects of stress. Massage therapy: A general term for the manipulation of soft tissue for therapeutic purposes. Massage therapy incorporates various disciplines and involves kneading, rubbing, brushing and tapping the muscles and connective tissues by hand or using mechanical devices. Its goal is to increase circulation and detoxification in order to reduce physical and emotional stress and increase overall wellness.

a higher power or the Universe. It can also help reduce stress and alleviate stress-related ailments, such as anxiety and high blood pressure. Mediumship: A medium professes to mentally see, hear and/or sense persons or entities in a spiritual dimension, and convey messages from them to people in the physical world. Readings focus on evidential messages from recognizable personalities in the spirit world. The messages are delivered as guidance for one’s “highest good”. Meditation: The intentional directing of attention to one’s inner self. Methods and practices to achieve a meditative state are based upon various principles using the body or mind; they may also employ control or letting-go mechanisms. Techniques include the use of imagery, mantras, observation and the control of breathing. Research has shown that regular meditation can contribute to psychological and physiological well-being. As a spiritual practice, meditation is used to facilitate a mystical sense of oneness with

Midwife: A birth attendant who assists a woman through the prenatal, labor, birth and postpartum stages of pregnancy. The mother is encouraged to be involved and to feel in control of her birthing experience. Midwives are knowledgeable about normal pregnancy, labor, birth and pain relief options. They respect the process of birth as an innate and familiar process. Certified nursemidwives are registered nurses who have received advanced training and passed a national certification exam. Nurse-midwives collaborate with physicians as needed, especially when problems arise during pregnancy. (Also see Doula.)

203-856-9566 • www.203TLC.com TLC Center was founded in 1997 by Beth Leas on the premise that a single candle burns brighter in a gathering. Today TLC is Fairﬁeld County’s largest holistic health network, with more than 90 independent members. TLC Members are dedicated to healthy living by oﬀering high quality private sessions, products, workshops and classes.

Energy Healing

Personal Development

soul Healing journey, llC Eilis Philpott Fairﬁeld 203-767-5954 Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com SoulHealingJourney.com

Meditation & Counseling meg reilly, ms, CH Meg Reilly 360 203-952-6272 MegReilly360.com Classes monthly in Norwalk Personalized service by appointment

Learning with Horses Carrie Brady Possibilities Farm Wilton 203-210-7484 LifeYouveImagined@gmail.com PossibilitiesFarm.com

Transformative Healing

Tesa Baum, CHT, RM Certified Hypnotherapy Practitioner, Usui/ Karuna Reiki Master, Shamanic Practitioner Ridgeﬁeld 203-364-4084 TesaBaum.com

25+ years experience Energy Healing, Meditati on, Tarot Private sessions, Workshops, Events In-person or by phone 203-856-9566 BethLeas.com

Natural Living Directory 2018

natural living glossary Naturopathy: A comprehensive and eclectic system whose philosophy is based upon working in harmony with the body’s natural healing abilities. Naturopathy incorporates a broad range of natural methods and substances aimed to promote health. Training may include the study of specific approaches, including massage, manipulation, acupuncture, acupressure, counseling, applied nutrition, herbal medicine, homeopathy and minor surgery, plus basic obstetrics for assistance with natural childbirth. Network chiropractic: Uses Network Spinal Analysis (NSA), a system of assessing and contributing to spinal and neural integrity, as well as health and wellness. Founded and developed by Donald Epstein. Practitioners employ gentle force to the spine to help the body eliminate mechanical tension in the neurological system. The body naturally develops strategies to dissipate stored tension/energy, thus enhancing self-regulation of tension and spinal interference. (Also see Chiropractic.)

MEDIUM JOAN CARRA

Psychic Medium 203-531-6387 PsychicJoanCarra.net Facebook.com/PsychicJoan.Carra Understand blocks in your life or reconnect with loved ones that have passed. Joan can guide you with gentle intuitive advice; card reading, numerology, palmistry and afterlife communications. She has 20 years of experience and is available via telephone or in person.

JEANNE STREET

Spiritual Medium, Healer, Author RMT, Certified Raw Food Specialist JeanneStreet.com 203-788-9338

Jeanne Street

Jeanne is an author, owner of Inspirit Healing Studio in Woodbury and creator of Goddess Youniversity, an online community to learn, grow and heal without having to leave the comfort of your own home. Her work focuses on embodying the Holy Spirit. See ad, page 25.

Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP): A systematic approach to changing the limiting patterns of thought, behavior and language. Through conversation, practitioners observe the client’s language, eye movements, posture, breathing and gestures in order to detect and help change unconscious patterns linked to the Connecting people to their loved ones in Heaven client’s emotional state.

Nutritional counseling: Embracing a wide range UNIVERSAL INTELLIGENCE, LLC of approaches, nutrition-based, complementary Redding therapies and counseling to seek to alleviate Don't go it alone...203-451-3383 loving guidance you can trust physical and psychological disorders through Support@UniversalIntelligence.info special diets and food supplements. These will UniversalIntelligence.info be either macronutrients (carbohydrates, fats, My name is Althea, which means proteins and fiber) or micronutrients (vitamins, healer. I work collaboratively minerals and trace elements that cannot with clients to release where they be manufactured in the body). Nutritional are “stuck” and get to where they therapy/counseling often uses dietary or would like to be. I use the food supplements, which can include tablets, modalities of hypnosis, coaching, capsules, powders or liquids. Osteopathy/osteopathic physicians: Uses generally accepted physical, pharmacological and surgical methods of diagnosis and therapy— with a strong emphasis on body mechanics and manipulative methods to detect and correct faulty structure and function—in order to restore the body’s natural healing capacities. Doctors of osteopathy are fully trained and licensed according to the same standards as medical doctors; they receive additional extensive training in the body’s structure and functions. Oxygen therapies: Alters the body’s chemistry to help overcome disease, promote repair and improve overall function. Properly applied, oxygen may be used to treat a wide variety of conditions, including infections, circulatory problems, chronic fatigue syndrome, arthritis, allergies, cancer and multiple sclerosis. The major types of oxygen therapy used to treat illness are hyperbaric oxygen and ozone. Hydrogen peroxide therapy (oral or intravenous) can be dangerous and should be avoided.

emotional freedom techniques, among others, in a safe, tranquil environment. See ads, pages 9 and 65.

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN ADAM BREINER, ND

Whole-Body Medicine LLC 501 Kings Hwy E, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 WholeBodyMed.com Dr. Adam Breiner has helped patients with a wide variety of neurological conditions—including stroke, concussions, TBIs, ADD/ADHD, depression and anxiety—as well as seeing patients for enhanced sports, scholastic and workplace performance. His center was the first facility in the country to offer the powerful combination of hyperbaric oxygen therapy and neurofeedback. Dr. Breiner also has natural and cutting-edge approaches for the treatment of Lyme disease. See ad, page 2.

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INGELS FAMILY HEALTH 22 Fairfield Pl, Fairfield 203-254-9957 Info@DarinIngelsND.com IngelsFamilyHealth.com

Ingels Family Health is an integrative health center with five naturopathic doctors (NDs) and an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN). We specialize in Lyme disease, ADD/ ADHD, PANDAS/PANS, autism spectrum disorders, thyroid disorders, cardiovascular health and chronic immune dysfunction disorders (including allergies, asthma, autoimmune and other inflammatory conditions). Our doctors are well-rounded in various natural treatment modalities. We offer thorough diagnostic testing and treatment using homeopathy, herbs, pharmaceutical-grade supplements, nutrition, acupuncture, cranial sacral therapy, low-dose immunotherapy and sublingual immunotherapy. See ad, page 15.

INGELS FAMILY HEALTH

Dr. Jaquel Patterson 22 Fairfield Pl, Fairfield 203-254-9957 • IngelsFamilyHealth.com Natural Care for the Whole Body and Family. From treating disease conditions for individuals to preventive healthcare, Dr. Jaquel believes in treating the underlying cause to prevent disease and resolve health issues. See ads, pages 5 and 15.

NATURAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER

Lisa Singley, ND, MS 2103 Main St, Ste 2, Stratford 203-874-4333 Info@NHAWC.com • NHAWC.com We use advanced diagnostic testing with safe, effective, all-natural healing modalities and treatment options to treat acute and chronic conditions, restore balance and treat the mind, body and spirit. Specialists in endocrine disorders, digestive issues, pain management and chronic fatigue. We offer comprehensive solutions to prevent illness and maintain optimal health for body, mind and spirit. See ad, page 49.

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

Family Health Care using all natural therapies for 25 years. Acupuncture, bioidentical hormones, homeopathy, Chinese/Western herbs, allergy/ toxin testing, oxygen therapy, Meridian stress assessment, nutrition/enzyme therapies. See ad, page 27.

SHALVA CLINIC LLC

Ellen M Lewis, ND, Director 8 Lincoln St, Westport 203-916-4600 ShalvaClinic.org Dr. Lewis offers comprehensive holistic care for women including well-women exams, fertility, thyroid and menopause CMYK support. also has a special 1, 99, 1, She 0 interest in pediatrics and utilizes a variety of natural modalities when working with patients with ADD/ADHD, CMYK 58, 79, 0, 0 autism, allergies, eczema and asthma. Treatments include herbal medicine, functional medicine, biotherapeutic drainage, homeopathy and more. See ad, back cover. Aleo – Bold CMYK: 72, 66, 65, 79

NEUROFEEDBACK

ROSEANN CAPANNA-HODGE, EDD, LPC, BCN, LLC 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield Offices in Ridgefield and Newtown 203-438-4848 Info@DrRoseann.com • DrRoseann.com We work with children, adolescents, teens, adults and families around a variety of issues with non-medication therapies. We provide brain-based treatments like neurofeedback, biofeedback, EFT, hypnosis, meditation, etc. Our staff provides non-judgmental support to help alleviate stress and promote wellness. See ad, page 33.

NUTRITION

P R O X I M A N O VA – S E M I B O L D CMYK: 72, 66, 65, 79

ADAM BREINER, ND

The NeuroEdge Brain Performance Center Division of Whole-Body Medicine Full ColorHighway E, Ste 108, Fairfield One Color 501 Kings 203-371-8258 TheNeuroEdge.com The NeuroEdge is dedicated to keeping your brain sharp and high-functioning. We treat head injuries and brain traumas such as concussion and stroke as well as help athletes, students and businesspeople improve their performance. Learn and view our cutting-edge neurotherapies at TheNeuroEdge.com. See ad, page 2.

DINA KHADER MS, RD, CDN

Premier Nutrition and Rejuvenation 4 Smith Ave, Mount Kisco, NY 914-242-0124 • DinaKhader.com Knockout White (For Dark Backgrounds)

As an integrative nutrition consultant in practice for more than 28 years, Dina Khader is skilled in both Eastern and Western approaches to health. Precise testing combined with her clinical training and experience provide clients with effective, customized protocols and cutting-edge nutritional guidance. Specialties include autoimmune, cancer, diabetes, digestive issues, heart disease, healthy aging, hormonal imbalances, Lyme and TBI. She is also a certified QRA practitioner following the Marshall Protocol.

OSTEOPATHIC PHYSICIAN DAVID L. JOHNSTON, DO 158 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-438-9915 OsteopathicWellness.net

Dr. Johnston has been providing gentle, holistic, hands-on osteopathic manual treatment and nutrition for over 20 years. Excellent for newborns, birth trauma, concussions, headaches, sports injuries, neck and back pain, digestive issues, brain support, stress, fibromyalgia, detoxification and weight loss, specialized bloodwork. See ads, pages 2 and 39.

KATHERINE J. SCOVILLE, DO, PC 311 North St, Ste 307, White Plains, NY 914-358-9559

Osteopathic manipulative medicine for newborns to adults. Individualized treatment is based on guiding the body’s systems into optimal balance to restore and maintain health. “Dr. Scoville’s approach is subtle, but the results are powerful—and healing,” says Marianne F. of Bedford Hills, NY.

Natural Living Directory 2018

PAIN RELIEF

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

KATHERINE J. SCOVILLE, DO, PC 311 North St, Ste 307, White Plains, NY 914-358-9559

CARRIE BRADY

A board-certified osteopathic physician specializing in osteopathic manipulative medicine, Dr. Scoville is uniquely qualified to manage patients with acute and chronic pain through gentle, hands-on treatment of impaired or altered function within the body.

PAST LIFE REGRESSION THERESA

PSYCHIC MINDBODY MASTERY Nicole Fevrier Davis 646-739-7879 MindBodyMastery.org

Nicole Fevrier Davis adeptly and professionally combines the science of wellness with the language of our souls to attain successful outcomes. Nicole’s personal training unlocks body wisdom and speaks to her clients’ needs on several levels. See ad, page 9.

Theresa is a 3rd generational Healer and Seer Luminary. She is a gifted Medium and Past Life Regressionist. Theresa uses her Master Level Reiki, Reflexology and Shiatsu combined with her own gifts of ancient and contemporary practices.

PERSONAL TRAINING

PSYCHOLOGIST

MINDBODY MASTERY

BEING CENTERED: PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES, PLLC

Nicole Fevrier Davis 646-739-7879 MindBodyMastery.org

Ridgefield 203-614-1089 Info@Being-Centered.com Being-Centered.com

Dr. Teresa Reyes Castillo and Dr. Anna Huff are two licensed psychologists aimed at helping others find their truth and the courage to follow their path. Their psychodynamic approach helps individuals to find a deeper meaning within their lives. See ad, page 12.

We all have a hand in creating the community where we want to live. It is the support of our wonderful advertisers that makes it possible to provide this resource to you each month. Please support the businesses that support us... and be sure to mention you saw them in Natural Awakenings. 74

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PSYCHOTHERAPY

ROSEANN CAPANNA-HODGE, EDD, LPC, BCN, LLC 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield Offices in Ridgefield and Newtown 203-438-4848 Info@DrRoseann.com DrRoseann.com

Our highly trained and experienced therapists utilize a variety of brain-based tools and techniques that allow the CNS to calm down so one can address their issues without heightened anxiety. We specialize in pediatrics, parenting and supporting individuals with chronic issues. See ad, page 33.

ROBIN ORDAN, LCSW Family, Child, Individual and 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 43.

RS HOLISTIC COUNSELING, COACHING AND HEALING

Rebecca Schoenewolf, LPC, LMHC, RMT 152 Deer Hill Ave, Ste 119, Danbury 203-826-2558 RSHolisticServices.com Rebecca is holistic LPC and LMHC, Reiki Master/teacher (Usui/Holy Fire) and healer. She has over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, and maintains a private practice in Danbury that emphasizes calm acceptance and safety. She is EMDR-certified, and has experience with working through many mental health issues. See ad, page 24.

NANCY SCHERLONG, LCSW

Coaching/Psychotherapy/Consulting Offices in Danbury and Ridgefield 914-572-3167 WellnessMetaphors.com Manage stress with relaxation techniques. Re-discover your creativity through writing and the expressive arts. Resolve trauma with EMDR, IFS or SE. Or book an experiential workshop! Nancy has over 20 years of experience with children, families, groups, adults and corporate wellness programs. See ad, page 53.

VICTORIA SHAW, PHD

Intuitive Psychotherapist Offices in Westport and Wilton 203-210-5700 VictoriaShawPsychotherapy.com I combine the best of traditional psychotherapy with intuitive guidance in my work with children, teens and adults. My goal is to connect clients with their own inner source of strength, wisdom and healing. See ad, page 83.

REBIRTHING SOUL HEALING JOURNEY, LLC Eilis Philpott 40 Livingston St, Fairfield 203-767-5954 Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com SoulHealingJourney.com

Rebirthing (Conscious Connected Breathing) is a gentle, profound healing experience that can release stress and rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit. Rebirthing can help you open your heart to more love in your life and your relationships, and free yourself to choose more deeply that which nurtures your soul. See ad, page 26.

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.

CARRIE BRADY, EQUINE-ASSISTED ENERGY WORK AND MEDITATION Possibilities Farm, Wilton 203-210-7484 LifeYouveImagined@gmail.com PossibilitiesFarm.com

Experience profound relaxation and rejuvenation along with child-like joy and wonder in private equine-assisted Reiki sessions or small group meditation circles. Become Reiki-certified and deepen your energetic awareness in professional workshops.

JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER

2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 JiivaCenter.com Berta Prevosti is a Usui and Karuna Reiki Master and has been practicing Reiki for over 20 years. We also have several experienced Reiki Masters and practitioners. We offer private Reiki sessions for physical and emotional pain. We also have ongoing Reiki classes that are taught in the traditional Usui method by Berta. See ad, page 31.

JOYFUL LIVING REIKI, LLC

Gail Christie, RMT Usui/Holy Fire II Reiki Master Teacher Offices in Stamford & Ridgefield 203-979-0918 JoyfulLivingReiki.com Experience the deep relaxation, balance and high vibrational healing energies of a Holy Fire II Reiki session. Gail brings a deep spiritual connection and a joy for life to all her sessions and classes. She teaches Reiki classes of all levels.

natural living glossary Past Life Regression: Past life and regression therapies operate on the assumption that many physical, mental and emotional challenges are extensions of unresolved problems from the past, either childhood traumas or experiences in previous lifetimes. The practitioner uses hypnosis or other altered states of consciousness and relaxation techniques to access the source of this “unfinished business”, and helps clients to analyze, integrate and release past traumas that are interfering with their current lives. Pilates: A structured system of small isolated movements that demands powerful focus on feeling every nuance of muscle action while working out on floor mats or machines. Emphasizes development of the torso’s abdominal power center, or core. More gentle than conventional exercises, Pilates—like yoga—yields long, lean, flexible muscles with gracefully balanced movements that readily translate into everyday activities like walking, sitting and bending. Can help in overcoming injuries.

JAMES LANDERS AND JEANNETTE STELLATO

ReikiOvertones LLC dba Jikiden Reiki Connecticut 95 Harris St, Fairfield 203-254-3958 ReikiOvertones@sbcglobal.net JikidenReiki@gmail.com ReikiOvertones.com Jim and Jeannette live in Fairfield where they practice Jikiden Reiki exclusively. They offer training seminars and opportunities for students to practice and review. They organize events for guest lectures, staff and students. They also established volunteer Reiki programs in nursing/ health care facilities where students participate.

MINDBODY MASTERY Nicole Fevrier Davis 646-739-7879 MindBodyMastery.org

Prolotherapy: A rejuvenating therapy that uses injections of natural substances to stimulate collagen growth in order to strengthen weak or damaged joints, tendons, ligaments or muscles. Often used as a natural alternative to drugs and/ or surgery to treat pain syndromes, including degenerative arthritis, lower back, neck and joint pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, migraine headaches, and torn ligaments and cartilage. Qigong and Tai chi: Qigong and tai chi combine movement, meditation and breathe regulation to enhance the flow of vital energy (qi or chi, pronounced “chee”) in the body, improve circulation and enhance immune function. Qigong traces its roots to traditional Chinese medicine. Tai chi was originally a selfdefense martial art descended from qigong and employed to promote inner peace and calm. Real Time EEG Neurofeedback: Involves direct training of brain function. Using computer processing to capture electrical activity in the brain, an individual can reward the brain with positive feedback, changing its activity to desired, more appropriate patterns. Gradually, the brain learns and remembers how to exhibit only the good patterns. Natural Living Directory 2018

REIKI DEANA PAQUA, MA, LMT Embody the Sacred Ridgefield and New Milford 203-994-5045 EmbodyTheSacred.net

TURNING POINT REIKI LLC

JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield 203-438-3050 TurningPointReiki.com TurningPointShare.com JoAnn uses intuition, experience and a deep spiritual connection in her Reiki, IET and Reconnective Healing sessions. Specializing in care for individuals with cancer, Lyme disease and back pain. All Reiki levels taught. See ad, page 28.

Integrating Reiki, energy medicine and shamanic healing for healers, empaths and spiritual seekers. Offering sessions and classes in Usui and Karuna Reiki. A nurturing, hands-on, spiritual approach to deep healing to transform trauma, pain and loss. See ad, page 41.

natural living glossary Reflexology: A natural healing art based upon the principle that there are reflexes in the feet and hands that correspond to every part of the body. Correctly stimulating and applying pressure to the feet or hands increases circulation and promotes specifically designated bodily and muscular functions. Reiki: Means “universal life-force energy”. A method of activating and balancing the life-force (qi or chi, pronounced “chee”). Practitioners use light hand placements to channel healing energies to organs and glands or to align the body’s chakras (energy centers). Various techniques can ease emotional and mental distress, heal chronic and acute physical problems, and achieve spiritual focus and clarity. Reiki can be a valuable addition to the work of chiropractors, massage therapists, nurses and others for whom the use of touch is essential and appropriate.

and journeying into the spirit world to regain personal power and to access the powers of nature and of teachers. Shamanic healing may be taken literally or employed symbolically; the tradition can be both self-empowering and self-healing. Shiatsu: The most widely known form of acupressure, shiatsu is a Japanese word meaning finger pressure. The technique applies varying degrees of pressure to balance the life energy that flows through specific pathways, or meridians, in the body. Used to release tension and strengthen weak areas in order to facilitate even circulation, cleanse cells and improve the function of vital organs. Sound healing: Employs vocal and instrumental tones, generated internally or externally. When sounds are produced with healing intent, they can create sympathetic resonance in the physical and energy bodies. Sound healing also is used to bring discordant energy into balance and harmony. Thermography (thermal imaging): A diagnostic technique that uses an infrared camera to measure temperature variations on the surface of the body, producing images that reveal sites of inflammation and abnormal tissue growth. Inflammation is recognized as the earliest stage of nearly all major health challenges.

Rolfing structural integration (Rolfing): A hands-on technique for deep tissue manipulation of the myofascial system—which is composed of the muscles and the connective tissue, or fascia—in order to restore the body’s natural alignment and sense of integration. The range and freedom of physical and emotional expression increases as the body is released from old patterns and postures. Rolfing can help ease pain and chronic stress, enhance neurological functioning, improve posture and re-store flexibility. Shamanism: An ancient healing tradition which believes that loss of power is the real source of illness and that all healing includes the spiritual dimension. Shamanic healing usually involves induction into an altered state of consciousness 76

Yoga: Practical application of the ancient Indian Vedic teachings. The word yoga is derived from the Sanskrit root yuj which means “union” or “to join”, and refers to the joining of man’s physical, mental and spiritual elements. Yoga focuses physical exercises called asanas (or postures), controlled breathing, relaxation, meditation, and diet and nutrition. Please note: The contents of this Health & Wellness Glossary are for informational purposes only. The information is not intended to be used in place of a visit or consultation with a healthcare professional. Always seek out a practitioner who is licensed, certified or otherwise professionally qualified to conduct a selected treatment, as appropriate. SOURCES: U.S. Department of Energy, U.S. Department of Agriculture.

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REIKI TRAINING THERESA

SHAMANIC PRACTITIONER HUNTER HEALING HANDS

Jessica C. Hunter 203-916-8381 HunterHealingHands@hotmail.com HunterHealingHands.co 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 8.

DEANA PAQUA, MA, LMT Embody the Sacred Ridgefield and New Milford 203-994-5045 EmbodyTheSacred.net

Specializing in shamanic and holistic health education for healers, empaths and spiritual seekers. Experience self-healing and self-empowerment through ancient and modern tools to transform trauma, pain and loss. Expand your gifts and make a difference. See ad, page 41.

SOMATIC EXPERIENCING VINCENT FRASER, CST, CAT, SEP Craniosacral Therapy, Alexander Technique, Somatic Experiencing Greenwich and Norwalk 203-570-2059 Vincent@VincentFraser.com

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

TAI CHI/QIGONG JAMPA STEWART, MSOM, LAc  Board Certified Acupuncturist Valley Spirit Wellness 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot 860-619-2788 ValleySpiritCoop.com

Develop physical and mental fitness and find a new harmony of the mind, body and spirit using ancient Chinese arts. Starting with basic movements, warm-up techniques and breathing exercises, you will learn a set of flowing natural movements done slowly with calmness, balance and awareness. Weekly classes, weekend workshops and retreats. See ad, page 23.

ermal Imaging (DITI) THERMOGRAPHY pproved full body screening. WHOLE HEALTH • No Radiati on THERMOGRAPHY LLC  ars earlier breast Rachel Mazzarelli, MS, CCT Locations throughout Fairfield County, n vs mammogram Southbury, New Haven, Milford and New York for detecti ng and 203-257-3785 mber of diseases WHThermography@gmail.com cal injuries. WholeHealthThermography.com

Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging (DITI) is an FDAapproved, noninvasive, 85 no-radiation screening for the whole body. It offers possible ut earlier detection of breast disease thbury, and can aid in diagnosis and ord, improved prognosis of many health conditions and injuries. See ad, page 12.

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TRANSFORMATIVE HEALING

ESSENTIAL HOLISTIC HEALING, LLC Jackie Karabin, Reiki Master, LMT Wilton 203-984-1491 Info@EssentialHolisticHealing.com EssentialHolisticHealing.com

Find balance and enhance the health and well-being of your body, mind and spirit through Reiki and massage therapy. Offering a holistic approach with tailored sessions to honor the specific needs and goals of the client.

HEALTHFUL DIRECTION

Alison Anderson, MS Westport and Distance Sessions 203-557-4192 (office landline) HealthfulDirection.com Transform today with Alison’s highly intuitive and collaborative coaching and healing style, which helps melt away limiting “roadblocks” around the areas of body image, allergies, phobias, stress and more. She uses high-speed mindset change processes (PSYCH-K, EFT, Healing from the Body Level Up) to restore balance and well-being to your mind, body and soul.

JENNIFER L. HERNANDEZ, MAT Certified Energy Healer 203-583-1485 Me@JenniferLHernandez.com JenniferLHernandez.com

BETH LEAS

Transformative Healing • Tarot 203-856-9566 BethLeas.com TLCTarot.com If not now, when? Inspire change on all levels—greater physical ease, emotional freedom, peace of mind and spiritual connection. 20 years of intuitive healing experience with adults and children of all ages. Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tarot. See ad, page 71.

NORA JAYA HEALING ARTS Fairfield, Stratford 203-998-5292 Jaya@NoraJaya.com Norajaya.com

Nora Jaya is an intuitive healer who specializes in hands-on healing, sound healing and spiritual counseling. She’s trained in both Western Reiki as a master and also Jikiden Reiki Shihan Kaku (teacher). She’s a certified yoga teacher, sound healer and Egyptian High Alchemist. See ad, page 53.

Your ad could be featured here Reach over 75,000 Natural Awakenings readers by placing your ad here. Call for more info. 203-885-4674

KHRISTEE RICH, SPIRITUAL MENTOR

The Dancing Curtain, Ridgefield Khristee@TheDancingCurtain.com TheDancingCurtain.com With 15 years of experience, Khristee offers reiki/shamanism services (in person and via distance healing), group healing workshops, public speaking and an e-course in Russian Shamanism. Heal chronic illness, pain and your emotions. Connect to your spirit and your joy. Empower yourself, transform, create your life and live courageously.

SARAH ROTELLA

Enlightenment Center, Integrative Wellness Therapies 100 Danbury Rd, Ste 102, Ridgefield Additional locations in Greenwich and Southbury 203-525-5830 S.Light@mac.com • SenLightenment.com Experiential knowing gives meaning to the words and insights we have and leads to trusting our intuition. A transformational session encompasses all the senses, aligning the whole body. This can lead to a higher thought awareness that creates potential for actions that change our reality. See ad, page 10.

RS HOLISTIC COUNSELING, COACHING AND HEALING

246 Federal Rd, Ste C23-A, Brookfield 203-826-2558 RSHolisticHealing@gmail.com RSHolisticServices.com RS Holistic Counseling, Coaching, and Healing offers Transformative Healing sessions in Brookfield. The sessions can be from one hour for pure healing sessions using a variety of methods including Reiki, guided meditations, crystals, essential oils specific to your needs. There is also a 1 1/2-hour session that consists of 45 minutes of coaching, and 45 minutes of transformative healing. See ad, page 24.

SOUL HEALING JOURNEY, LLC Eilis Philpott 40 Livingston St, Fairfield 203-767-5954 Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com SoulHealingJourney.com

Eilis, a certified Rebirther, has completed Rebirthing and Advanced Rebirthing training. She is a Reiki Master in Usui/Raku-kei Reiki and Angelic Reiki. She teaches 13th Octave LaHoChi, Angel Light Healing, chakra balancing and other healing techniques. A transformational healing session supports you in healing all aspects of your life. See ad, page 26.

Natural Living Directory 2018

WELLNESS CENTER

TRANSFORMATIVE HEALING SPIRITUAL ARTS LLC

Richard Wlodarski, RMT 2505 Main St, Ste 209B, Stratford 203-605-0773 Rich@SpiritualArts.info • SpritualArts.info Richard is a Reiki Master/ Teacher and intuitive reader. He specializes in home and property cleansings. Come and experience the healing attributes of Reiki and discover spiritual guidance and awareness, with over 30 years of experience.

VIBRATIONAL TECHNOLOGY SARAH ROTELLA

Enlightenment Center, Integrative Wellness Therapies 100 Danbury Rd, Ste 102, Ridgefield Additional locations in Greenwich and Southbury 203-525-5830 S.Light@mac.com SenLightenment.com Raising our energetic vibration leads to optimal health in mind, body and spirit. By raising our ability to increase our cellular energy currency, we elevate our overall health. Vibrational technology can help reset our brain and accelerate our healing and consciousness elevation. See ad, page 10.

7EFIT SPA/ SOUL SYNERGY WELLNESS

1492 High Ridge Rd, Stamford • 203-356-5822 515 West Ave, Norwalk • 203-814-1355 SoulSynergyWellness111@gmail.com SoulSynergyWellness.co Soul Synergy Wellness offers a variety of aesthetic services and noninvasive techniques to support mind-body wellness. Services include anti-aging and oxygen facials with aromatherapy, Torc Plus bioelectric stimulation for muscle activation and weight-loss, infrared sauna and the DietMaster weight-loss program. See ads, pages 4 and 26.

BAREFOOT LIVING ARTS

85 Mill Plain Rd, Fairfield 203-955-1955 BarefootMedicalArts@gmail.com BarefootLivingArts.org Barefoot Living Arts is a wellness center in downtown Fairfield that provides acupuncture, craniosacral therapy, massage, qigong, meditation, counseling, yoga and more. Our practice consists of two naturopathic doctors, a licensed massage therapist, a licensed clinical social worker and an advanced practice registered nurse. We strive to gently assist our patients to develop a deeper, more authentic connection with themselves.

JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER

Berta Prevosti, Usui and Karuna Reiki Master 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 JiivaCenter.com

Love yourself. It is important to stay positive because

beauty comes from the inside out. ~Jenn Proske

Jiiva is in the business of building a community for yoga and healing. We offer yoga classes, a school of Reiki, private Reiki treatments, traditional massage therapy, Thai massage, meditation classes, workshops and community events. See ad, page 31.

KURE SPA & WELLNESS CENTER 430 Main Ave, Second Level Norwalk 203-857-1500 KureSpa@Optimum.net Kure-Spa.com

Discover a profound sense of calm and healing with our innovative therapies and synergistic treatments. Whole body vibration plus sauna heat therapy, PEMF Therapy, massage, nutritional consulting, organic juice bar, diagnostic imaging and more. See ad, page 57.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

REMEDY BODYWORKS

36 Dyke Ln, Harbor Pt, Stamford RemedyBodyworks.com Remedy Bodyworks is a new health and wellness center focused on athletic recovery as well as stress and inflammation management. We provide holistic technology therapies for body recovery and maximizing body wellness and performance, including Cryotherapy, Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna, Red Light and PEMF. Our goal is support your wellness goals and help you feel energized every day.

SALTANA CAVE

590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-969-4327 SaltanaCave.com Fairfield County’s first and only therapeutic Himalayan salt cave provides relief from respiratory issues such as allergies, asthma, and side effects of smoking and pollution. Salt is naturally anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal. See ad, page 83.

SALT OF THE EARTH THERAPEUTIC SPA

787 Main St S, Woodbury 203-586-1172 NaturalSaltHealing.com Combining an array of natural therapies that have been used since ancient times with today’s technology, Salt of the Earth Spa provides a sanctuary for deep transformation, healing and grounding for mind, body and spirit. See ad, page 4.

SALT OF THE EARTH HEALING ARTS SANCTUARY/ATHENA HALL 346 Main St S, Woodbury 203-405-2241 203-586-1172

A space of calm and beauty, healing and restoration of the body and spirit, Salt of the Earth Healing Arts Sanctuary offers a tranquil place to refresh and renew in a house charged with the energy of old. Beautiful Athena Hall, inside the Sanctuary, can be rented to like-minded people for classes, workshops, lectures and special events. Heart and Home is a unique store in the sanctuary; a cozy place to shop, have tea, scoop and bag salts, purchase a variety of artisan goods.

SOMA SAMADHI YOGA AND DANCE

CT A�� C��

112 Main St, Norwalk 203-939-9642 Info@SomaSamadhi.com SomaSamadhi.com

Soma Samadhi offers adult fitness classes as well as dance, acting and performing arts classes for children. Wellness services include life coaching, acupuncture, Reiki, intuitive counseling and weight loss. Founder Alexa Lane has an extensive background in the performing arts and wellness industries.

WELLNESS PRODUCTS

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CRYSTAL BLUE WATER 860-995-4747 HeathermanHealth.org

A student dedicated to science and to find a better way to health. Crystal Blue Water is safe, convenient way to improve your water quality in your home or business. Well equipped to answer any questions and suggest recommendations for better tasting water. See ad, page 21.

HEMP*HEALTH*DIRECT

Sallie Pappas Fairfield 203 258-9851 Sallie@HempHealthDirect.com HempHealthDirect.com Pain management products made from industrial hemp and cannabidiol (CBD), a natural constituent of hemp oil. Other products include Cannabis Beauty skin-care line, tinctures, topicals, edibles and a medley of other products.

Lose Weight with Hypnosis Our Virtual Gastric Band program is the proven, natural, relaxing, and enjoyable way to lose weight!

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YOGA HIPHEATHER

Heather Reiners, E-RYT Private In-Home Yoga Sessions Fairfield County, and Westchester and Putnam Counties, NY 914-479-2594 Heather@Hipheather.com Experience the benefits of a personalized practice. Work oneon-one to receive a lesson for your specific needs. Tone muscles, decrease stress, increase flexibility and relax. No previous yoga experience required. Yoga parties also available.

Natural Living Directory 2018

Portal by Greer Jonas

Numerology Speaks: What is Our Personal Year in 2018?

2018 is the Year of the 11 Portal A Numerological Look at the Year Ahead by Greer Jonas

Opening a Portal The new doorway is the opportunity to step through our conceived failures, judgmental insecurities and “it’s too late” thought forms. It is a chance to be open to a new experience of potential beyond what 80

Personal Year Themes

The essence of 2018 numerology is that it is the global year of the Master 11 with 2+0+1+8 =11.

ccording to 2018 numerology, this global year is a new portal for all of us. The master 11 is the energy of divine inspiration, leadership and new beginnings. It is a time of tapping into the wisdom that comes from our intuition and the connection to our higher power, beyond our intellect. When we do this, we have a clear channel to discover truth and make a difference in our lives and the lives of others. Something new is happening. In mastery, an 11 vibration can shift what has been the norm because we are tapping into the universal collective of light and intelligence. We are connecting with the divine knowledge from the source of all things.

we have ever experienced. Of course, we have to do the work. It means we have to look at what we have been putting up with in our relationships, our careers and ourselves. Have we limited our full potential because of fear of how others will react? Have we limited our own power because of a belief system that we have taken on or have heard from others?

Are We Ready to Walk Through? What a wild ride we had during 2017. All levels were affected, whether it was our politics, environment, emotions or belief systems. 2017 was a time of looking at our shadow, of keeping our eyes wide open and aware. In 2018, we will have an even clearer view of this. This year promises to be a time to take action and make a difference in our lives, relationships and in the world. It is truly a time of letting go, speaking our truths and enjoying the ride.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

All of us have a specific personal year 2018 theme based on our birthdays. The global year of 2018 will influence our personal year in a very big way. By using the formula below, we can find the specific theme that we will experience during 2018. It is a perfect time to set new intentions and goals. To calculate, add the month and day of birth to the current year. So an April 1 birthday would be calculated as 4+1+2+0+1+8=16, and then 1+6=7. If the personal year calculates to a master number of 11 or 22, do not reduce with the second step. In this example, the April 1 birthday would mean a personal year of a 7. The seven year is an inner journey, a spiritual time of connecting inside of self in order to seek the truth. Perhaps it is exploring the unknown and embracing our nonconformity. With this theme, the 11 will help us push through shyness and explore something new in life.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Here are brief descriptions of the themes we will find in the 2018 personal years. How will we embrace life and lessons every day with a unique approach? Tap into intuition and let go of old patterns that are not working. What are we willing to let go of?

Year of new beginnings and innovative ideas, whether it is a new job, vibrant relationship or something else. • Challenge: fear of taking the next step.

Connecting in relationships of all forms, whether they are romantic, business, social and/or self. • Challenge: caring too much what others think.

Year of creativity and self-expression in every form, such as art, music, speaking and writing. • Challenge: fear of sharing our voice.

Year of the builder, the organizer, a great time to get something done. • Challenge: feeling bogged down by all the work we are doing or feeling overwhelmed.

Year of fun, increased social life, travel, energy and being out in the world with people. • Challenge: feeling a loss of freedom, overwhelm or too much on our plate.

Year of matters of the heart, such as dealing with family; loved ones; community; relationships; or a time of marriage, birth or rebirth. • Challenge: experiencing loss, feeling overburdened or taking on too much responsibility.

Year of spirituality and connection with inner self and a year of unique thoughts and actions. • Challenge: feeling unsociable or withdrawn, or fearing speaking our truth.

Year of abundance, leadership and manif-estation—a great time to achieve dreams. • Challenge: Being too self-consumed, feeling overburdened, or feeling oppressed or the victim instead of being the leader.

Year of transformation, transition, completion, and a time to examine life and see what new path to take. • Challenge: being able to see the lessons of what we have been putting up with and deciding to change direction.

11/2

Master year of inspired ideas and actions—which can influence and inspire others—and may deal with our relationships (2).

• Challenge: having many dreams but not acting on them—being in a master 11 personal year in the global year of 11 will be doubly powerful so try not to get too overwhelmed.

22/4

Year of mastery in relationships (2) and building (4), and a time to connect with others in a profound way and make difference. Also a great time to achieve a project with others. • Challenge: taking on a project without asking for help as well as taking it all on and caretaking for others. Greer Jonas is an artist, teacher and intuitive numerologist for over 30 years. She gives numerology readings through Skype, phone and in person in New York City and Connecticut. Connect at GreerDJonas@gmail.com, Numerology4YourSoul.com and GreerJonas.com.

Natural Living Directory 2018

Ganesh by Greer Jonas

Banishing Body-Image Blues

How Teens Can Learn to Love Their Looks by Amber Lanier Nagle

any young women don’t feel comfortable in their own skin. A 21st-century global study sponsored by Unilever’s Dove brand found that 90 percent of girls from 15 to 17 years old wanted to change at least one aspect of their physical appearance, especially their body weight. University of Minnesota research following adolescents for 10 years showed that about half of the female participants had dieted in the previous year, twice the number of males. Tracy Anderson, a mother of two and fitness expert, has spent the last 18 years working with women seeking balance in their bodies. In her recent book, Total Teen: Tracy Anderson’s Guide to Health, Happiness, and Ruling Your World, she observes, “Teens are depleted from comparing themselves to the shapes of others and from scolding themselves: ‘I should be thinner, I should be able to fit in those pants, I should be in better shape.’ But looking good on the outside must start with feeling good on the inside.”

Monitor Thoughts

Anderson believes we feel most happy and fulfilled and accomplish the most when our minds are calm, clear and alert. “If young women learn to connect with their mind, identify when their thoughts are anxious or stressed, and practice conscious breathing and meditating to regain a calm, centered state, they’ll be able to rebalance themselves for the rest of their lives,” she says. “By keeping a thought journal for a while and noticing when their thoughts have negative undertones, they can retrain their attitude.” Live a complaint-free day once each week. Every time a negative thought pops up, expel it and focus on a positive aspect of the idea or experience. Also invest

a few moments each day feeling thankful for successful aspects of life. “After a while, these exercises become habitual,” says Anderson. “Happy, high-achieving people fill their minds with positive, uplifting thoughts, affirmations and sincere gratitude. It’s widely proven to work.”

Eat Well

“Most teens can eat junk food all day long and still wake up the next morning ready to take on the world,” Anderson says. But such an unhealthy routine “shapes eating patterns for the rest of their lives, eventually catching up with them.” She strongly believes every young woman should routinely ask herself, “Is this real food?” “A potato is a real food, or whole food, but instant mashed potatoes are processed. A fresh ear of corn is a whole food; corn chips are processed. If you want to feel strong and healthy and look great, eat whole foods,” says Anderson. Also, note how the body responds to eating specific foods. Here again, a journal can help. “Jot down how a food

Lopolo/Shutterstock.com

healthy kids

meditation • massage • reiki for people & pets, sessions & classes • nutrition • psychotherapy The Ruby Tree Shop Hours Monthly Mystical Market 3rd Sunday of Every Month

Psychics, Readers, Vendors, Local Artisans, Holistic Practitioners, Light Refreshments. FREE Admission.

Quarterly Meet the Psychics Fair

Next date - Sunday, February 4, 2018

Revamped Yoga Schedule See calendar on website

Mon, Closed Tue, Wed, Fri 11am-6pm Thurs 10am-6pm Sat 10am-4pm Sun 11am -3pm*

*Closed Sundays from Christmas to Spring, except for events.

For more information:

Sherman Village 203-586-1655 Daily Psychics & Readers 670 Main St. S, Woodbury, CT See web for bios & schedules www.therubytreect.com yoga • crystal healing • psychic readers • aroma touch • rocks & crystals • events • workshops 82

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

made you feel after 15 minutes, an hour and two hours. Are you alert or sluggish? What signals are your stomach and brain sending? It’s useful information to make better ongoing food choices,” Anderson advises. She also advocates drinking plenty of water and eating organic foods when possible, and warns teens against skipping meals or snacks when their developing bodies feel the need for fuel.

Move More

For some teens, exercise movements don’t feel comfortable or natural, which hinders them from doing healthful exercise. “I’ve found that if a young woman practices exercises for a while privately, she’ll become more comfortable and confident over time,” says Anderson. “It’s like learning a foreign language, musical instrument or any skill. You master the basics first and build on them. With practice, you start feeling more at ease.” In her book, Anderson offers many step-by-step, illustrated workout moves designed to daily tone arms, legs and abs, and increase strength and flexibility. Many incorporate fun dance components that work well with music. “Regular exercise releases endorphins—the hormones that make us feel happier and better about ourselves,” she says. “For young women navigating the emotional ups and downs associated with menstrual cycles and puberty, exercise can be a lifesaver.” Whether it’s yoga, walking, martial arts, dancing, hiking, biking, horseback riding, climbing, skiing, gymnastics or tennis, teens need to find “some kind of movement and activity to become part of their everyday life.” A University of Wisconsin metaanalysis of 77 studies examining women’s body images suggests body dissatisfaction is a risk factor for eating disorders and a significant predictor of low self-esteem, depression and obesity. Helping young women build, strengthen or regain their positive body image and self-esteem works to empower a new generation and enables them to enjoy happier, healthier lives. Amber Lanier Nagle is a freelance writer in Northwest Georgia (AmberNagle.com).

327 4 9 6 m 203-9acave.co n salta

Saltana C ve & Spa

590 D an Ridgef bury Rd ield, C t

Salt therapy is: • known to significantly improve respiratory issues in children and adults, asthma, allergies, countering the side eﬀects of smoking and pollution, cystic fibrosis, acne • naturally anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal

Darien Integrative Medicine

Medical Director: Michael E. Doyle, MD

Board Certified. Georgetown Trained. Over 2 Decades of Clinical Experience

203-324-4747

6 Thorndal Cir #102, Darien, CT www.StamfordIntegrativeMedicine.com

“Combining the best of conventional and alternative medicine to provide the safest and most effective treatments for our patients.”

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 203-254-3403 •• vfshawphd@gmail.com vfshawphd@gmail.com Natural Living Directory 2018

INSPIRED

inspired table

TABLE

Sustainability Efforts Take Root in Connecticut Events Aim to Inspire and Showcase Best Practices

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

203-885-4674 84

by Ariana Rawls Fine

he increasing number of conferences focused on organic, holistic, farming, gardening, natural living and healthy food topics is proof of Connecticut’s growing commitment to sustainability. Upcoming examples of such events include Connecticut Northeast Farming Association’s (CT NOFA) 36th Annual Winter Conference, presented in cooperation with Western Connecticut State University and its Jane Goodall Center for Excellence in Environmental Studies, and the Grace Farms Foundation and Live Green Connecticut’s inaugural Regional Convening for Sustainable Development event. There will be more than 40 farm, garden, food and advocacy workshops offered at the Western Connecticut State University-hosted OrganiConn event. Farmers, landscapers, organic food vendors and connoisseurs, gardeners, advocates, families and community leaders will travel to Danbury on March 10 to learn more about the latest innovative organic food practices, share ideas and network with others who are working to have an organic impact locally and nationally. Dave Chapman, a founding member of the Vermont Organic Farmers and a greenhouse vegetable farmer specializing in tomatoes, will be the keynote speaker. Natural Awakenings is proud to be one of the sponsors for the event.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

“In the last 10 years, we have seen explosive growth in demand for organic food. Certified organic sales reached $50 billion in 2017. The very success of the National Organic Program has perhaps spelled its doom. We will try to understand what has happened to the National Organic Program,” says Chapman. “As healthy soil becomes ever more significant in our ability to heal a broken water cycle and a warming planet, the need for leadership from the organic movement becomes critical. We will look at the fraud, the protests, how to identify truly organic growers, and try to understand what to do next to protect organic,” he continues. The Winter Conference lunch menu, prepared by local restaurants and available as an add-on during registration, is carefully designed to include most dietary needs or preferences. Over 60 vendors and exhibitors will be showing their farm products, gifts, clothes, eco-friendly products and sustainable services as well. On February 7 from 9am to 4:30pm at Grace Farms in New Canaan, Grace Farms Foundation and Live Green Connecticut’s will hold the first Regional Convening for Sustainable Development events. Strategies for sustainable development, regional case studies, and other examples and best practices of community-driven sustain-

able development will be presented. The keynote addresses will be with Jeffrey Sachs and Catherine Smith, Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development. The event is intended to educate policy makers, NGOs and concerned individuals about global sustainability goals and how Connecticut and the region can contribute. Sachs is a professor of economics, leader in sustainable development, senior U.N. advisor, bestselling author and syndicated columnist whose monthly newspaper columns appear in more than 80 countries. Commissioner Smith heads up the lead state agency responsible for attracting and retaining businesses and jobs, revitalizing neighborhoods and communities, and fostering appropriate development in Connecticut’s towns and cities. Gatherings like these help us all learn how we can locally contribute to global sustainability efforts. For more information about Western Connecticut State University-hosted OrganiConn event, visit CTNOFA.org/ WinterConference. See ad, page 49. For more information about the Regional Convening for Sustainable Development event, visit LiveGreenCT.org or GraceFarms.org/Events/rcsd_2018. Ariana Rawls Fine is editor of Natural Awakenings Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley and Natural Awakenings New Haven/Middlesex Counties. She resides in Stratford with her family.

health brief

BIG BREAKFAST, LOWER BODY MASS

A study of more than 50,000 people in the Czech Republic by the Seventh-Day Adventist Loma Linda University, in California, found that those that made breakfast their largest meal of the day had lower body mass index (BMI) levels. Lunch as the largest daily meal showed the next best results. The researchers concluded that timing and frequency of meals play a role in predicting weight loss or gain. The two factors associated with higher BMI were eating more than three meals a day (snacks were counted as extra meals) and making dinner the day’s largest meal.

The Institute of Sustainable Nutrition

Nourishment From The Ground Up Offering a One-Year Certification in Sustainable Health & Nutrition Thousands of Years of Food Wisdom in Twelve Months Join our experienced staff one weekend a month as you use hands-on education to explore diverse aspects of how food and herbs enhance the health of your clients, family, yourself and the environment. Integrate the Science of Nutrition with: Practicing Sustainable Gardening Methods

Preparing Traditional Kitchen Medicine

Learning Kitchen Culinary Skills

Identifying Nutrient-rich Wild Plants

Embark on this life-altering journey and be part of the movement to change the paradigm of our food for future generations! Now accepting applications for 2018 | Call 860-764-9070 today! | West Granby, CT | www.tiosn.com Natural Living Directory 2018

widely known to treat atherosclerosis, normalize heart rhythms and help lower blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels, as well as significantly lower the risk of stroke.

Anna Hoychuk/Shutterstock.com

conscious eating

Foods Your Heart Will Love

Pumpkin seeds. High in mag-

Top 10 Heart Healthy Choices by Judith Fertig

“

ow do I love thee? Let me count the ways.” Elizabeth Barrett Browning once penned this unforgettable line to her husband and fellow poet, Robert Browning. Let us also count the ways to improve our loved ones’ heart health: Lower blood pressure. Modulate irregular heartbeats. Avoid plaque build-up in arteries. Improve blood flow to the heart. We can love our hearts with 10 superfoods that just might make perfect ingredients for a Valentine’s Day meal, starting with dark chocolate.

Cocoa powder. Cacao’s flavanols lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of stroke and act as antioxidants to prevent inflammation. Dr. JoAnn E. Manson, a physician, doctor of public health and professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School affiliate Brigham and Women’s Hospital, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, confirms, “Between 400 and 900 milligrams (mg) a day of cocoa flavanols may favorably affect several mechanisms and pathways related to cardiovascular disease prevention.” Not all chocolate is created equal. Manson recommends chocolate with cocoa or cacao as the first ingredient, not sugar. She and 86

her colleagues are currently conducting the Cocoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study, a large-scale, randomized study of 18,000 U.S. men and women testing the benefits of ingesting 600 mg per day of cocoa flavanols.

Raspberries.

Just one-half cup of berries a day can provide plenty of phytonutrients and antioxidants for decreasing inflammation and preventing heart disease, says Wendy Bazilian, a doctor of public health and registered dietitian in San Diego, and author of The SuperFoodsRx Diet: Lose Weight with the Power of SuperNutrients. “Whirl them into a breakfast smoothie, add them to a green salad or combine them with dark chocolate for a tasty, heart-healthy dessert,” she advises.

Avocados. Fresh avocados supply

magnesium, plus they’re a good source of potassium, another electrolyte the heart needs for optimum functioning. “You probably know bananas and citrus fruits are top sources of potassium, but I like avocados because they also supply healthy fats,” says Dr. Stephen T. Sinatra, a boardcertified cardiologist with the HeartMD Institute, in Manchester, Connecticut.

Salmon.

Full of omega-3 fatty acids, wild-caught salmon (about two six-ounce weekly servings) helps reduce systemic inflammation and risk of developing atherosclerosis, hypertension and stroke, according to Dr. Josh Axe, of Nashville, Tennessee. Beyond prevention, omega-3s in oily fish are also

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

nesium—about 764 mg per cup— roasted pumpkin seeds, or pepitas, top the list of heart-healthy nuts and seeds. Magnesium is an important electrolyte that helps the heart fire on all cylinders and not skip a beat. Improvements in lipid profiles can occur with a daily intake of 365 mg, or about a half-cup, of pepitas. Enjoy roasted pumpkin seeds as a snack or scatter them in a salad, bowl of chili or soup for a delicious crunch.

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Almonds. Sinatra recommends a handful of almonds a day to raise HDL, a form of “good” cholesterol he likens to a “lipid garbage truck” that picks up oxidized “bad” LDL in the bloodstream and carries it to the liver for processing.

Extra-Virgin Olive Oil. Coldpressed extra-virgin olive oil with a high phenol content can help lower blood pressure (via about two tablespoons daily), make more efficient and protective HDL cholesterol, and protect the inner lining of arteries.

Beet Juice.

A 2015 study in the journal Hypertension found that two daily eight-ounce glasses of beet juice can help reduce high blood pressure. Beets contain a natural dietary nitrate found in previous studies to lower high blood pressure. Enjoy beet juice in smoothies, as a tart drink known as a “shrub” (beet juice with raspberry vinegar) or in soups like borscht.

Garlic. Allicin, the sulfur compound that gives garlic its distinctive aroma, helps keep blood thin and flowing optimally, says Sinatra. The freshest chopped garlic offers the best benefits, according to a study from the University of Connecticut School of Medicine.

Pomegranate. Drinking

about one cup of pomegranate juice a day for three months can improve blood flow to the heart, reports a study in the American Journal of Cardiology.

Feed Your Soul n Revive a traditional weekly or monthly dinner with family or friends. n Whip up and enjoy a healthy dinner or dessert with someone not seen in a while. n Organize a healthy potluck using local ingredients and encourage invitees to bring someone that’s new to the group. n Choose a healthier version of a favorite meal and print out the recipe for everyone at the event. n Fill a basket with yummy and colorful edibles and drop it off at a local business or library to express appreciation. n Seek reconciliation by initiating a conversation with someone that may have been hurtful. n Explore ThePeoplesSupper.org to join or host a dinner to make new friends.

Offer Some Time n Offer to help clean up a friend’s yard or organize a closet or room in their house. n Host a children’s art party and donate their works to a local facility or shelter. n If in possession of a holistic, artful or practical skill, gift it. n Bring a pot of homemade soup to a friend or neighbor that’s under the weather. n Find ideas for random acts of kindness at Kindness.org.

The ultimate reason of all to keep our hearts in good working order was voiced by Helen Keller: “The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart.” Judith Fertig writes cookbooks and foodie fiction from Overland Park, KS (JudithFertig.com).

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Natural Living Directory 2018

SLEEP PEACEFULLY by Eliminating Allergens in the Bedroom by Brielle Bleeker

hemicals are everywhere and can be difficult to avoid, but when it comes to creating a toxin-free environment in the home, the bedroom is a great place to start. Surprisingly, there are far too many toxins taking up space in what should be the peaceful and relaxing haven of the home. A simple way to start is to replace pillows, pillowcases and sheets with those made of organic material. It is a common misconception that cotton is a better choice than synthetic materials; cotton farming uses more pesticides and insecticides than any other area of agricultural production. Organic cotton, hemp and wool are better options to search for when looking to purchase new bedding. Trying to overhaul the closet with an entirely new wardrobe made of organic materials can present quite a challenge. An easier option is to avoid buying clothing that is wrinkle-free and stain-resistant. Synthetic fabrics contain perfluorochemicals (PFC) which are absorbed through the skin and can be harsh to breathe in. It is also important to keep the inside of the 88

home shoe-less. Leaving shoes at the door can help keep dirt, pesticides, animal droppings and chemicals out of the home and bedroom. When it comes to decorating the bedroom, choose non-volatile organic compound (VOC) paint. VOC can cause breathing issues and headaches and contributes to air pollution. Wall-to-wall carpeting or area rugs can be a health hazard too. Dust and dirt can settle deep in the rug fibers and harbor allergens. Natural wood floors or tile are a better option with less risk of causing irritation and affecting allergies. Another area of the bedroom where dust and other allergens can be found is curtains and lampshades that collect dust and dirt and can be a hidden source responsible for breathing issues and skin irritation. While wooden blinds need to be dusted frequently, they do not hold the same amount of allergens as those made of fabric. Furniture made of particle board should be removed from the home. It contains formaldehyde, a known carcino-

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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gen that has been directly linked to several types of cancer and is known to cause nausea, headaches and allergies. Perhaps the largest change to create a healthier environment in the bedroom is purchasing a new organic mattress. According to celebrity naturopath Dr. Josh Axe, “Getting sufficient, high-quality sleep is one of the best things you can do for your health. Sleep allows the body to reset after a long day, balances hormones and helps control stress.” While this can also be the most costly step in creating a healthier environment in the bedroom, it can also be the most beneficial. Conventional mattresses are manufactured with harmful ingredients, including flame retardants, boric acid, formaldehyde, synthetic latex and more. Dave Spittal, owner of Healthy Choice Organic Mattress, says, “A healthy mattress is essential to your health and well-being. You spend one-third of your life on your mattress.” When sleeping on a traditional mattress, toxins and chemicals are consistently being absorbed through the skin and taken in through breathing night after night. In addition, these mattresses aren’t as comfortable as we would think, potentially leading to a lot of tossing and turning and restless sleeping. Not only can standard mattresses be harmful to our health, but they can also have a negative impact on the environment. Most mattresses are not biodegradable because of the chemicals they contain, and the addition of these mattresses to landfills every year increases pollution. Organic mattresses offer a healthier option to sleeping and maintaining a healthy bedroom. Free of chemicals and manufactured using high-quality, natural materials, they benefit not only our health, but the environment too. Lasting-longer than standard mattresses, organic mattresses offer a long-term solution to creating a healthier sleep environment. Healthy Choice Organic Mattress is located at 21 South Ave, New Canaan. For more information, call 203- 920-1244 or visit HCMattress.com. See ad, page 19. Brielle Bleeker is a writer for Natural Awakenings magazine.

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UNDERSTANDING NUTRACEUTICALS

How They Differ from Health Store Supplements by Linda Sechrist

Savvy consumers seeking products that might help them achieve and maintain good health may be noticing two new categories: medical food and nutraceuticals.

edicalized terminology is now being used to describe certain products we may already have been buying from brand-name dietary supplement companies and retailers, and they have a higher price tag. One common example: powdered protein meal-replacement shakes that can cost up to $16 more than a retail store brand, as nutraceutical and medical food purveyors want to differentiate their products as having clinical research and development behind them. This raises the bar on the quality of contents and assures consumers of third-party testing for proof of ingredients. Although both are regulated under the Dietary Supplement Health and Educa90

Federal Regulations tion Act (DSHEA) of 1994, there is no legal distinction between dietary supplements and nutraceuticals, yet each serves different purposes. Dietary supplements, comprising vitamins, minerals and/or herbs and botanicals, are intended to enhance wellness among healthy adults. Nutraceuticals encompass nutrients, foods or parts of foods used as medicine to provide health benefits beyond nutrition and combat chronic disease. Some of the most popular formulations involve botanicals like ginseng, ginkgo biloba, St. John’s wort and echinacea. “Medical foods, formulated for dietary management of a specific medical condition for which nutritional needs are unmet

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Medical foods and nutraceuticals, orally administered dietary products formulated to support the management of conditions such as compromised gut function, agerelated muscle loss, metabolic syndrome, Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, are subject to standard food and safety labeling requirements of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act. Although they may be used under medical supervision, patients don’t need a prescription. Many healthcare practitioners, including dietitians, currently recommend them under a physician’s direction. Unlike pharmaceuticals, which are accountable to the Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Drug Evaluation and

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by a normal diet, are regulated under the Orphan Drug Act of 1983,” explains Bill Shaddle, senior director of medical education at Metagenics, Inc. “Our nutraceuticals and medical foods are supported by verifiable science that provides solid evidence regarding the therapeutic benefits produced by ingredients in our products.” The word nutraceutical, blending nutrition and pharmaceutics, was coined in 1989 by Stephen L. DeFelice, the founder and chairman of the nonprofit Foundation for Innovation in Medicine, in Mountainside, New Jersey, which promotes clinical research and development of dietary supplements and foods specifically for their health benefits. Reputable companies that manufacture private-label nutraceuticals, such as Metagenics and Xymogen, among others, research and develop products for functional nutrition and quality. While such products are solely distributed through partnerships with healthcare professionals such as medical doctors, nutritionists and pharmacists, some of the evidence-based, professional-grade formulas are available through online physician websites. Metagenics and Xymogen collaborate with institutions such as the Cleveland Clinic, Bastyr University and National College of Natural Medicine in conducting clinical research that demonstrates how their formulas impact healthy aging, cognitive function and overall health.

Research, patent-protected and supported by expensive testing documentation, nutraceuticals are not. However, many manufacturers do choose to undergo costly testing. Like all dietary supplements, the majority of which do not undergo third-party testing, they are regulated by DSHEA, which defines and regulates labeling and claims of benefits related to classic nutrient-deficiency diseases.

Nutraceuticals encompass nutrients, foods or parts of foods used as medicine to provide health benefits beyond nutrition and combat chronic disease.

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Private Quality Control Xymogen is strictly a physician’s line of nutraceuticals, explains Cheryl Burdette, a doctor of naturopathy and director of clinical research and outreach for the company. “In our manufacturing process, to avoid contamination and validate ingredients, every batch is third-party assayed by an independent laboratory, whereas some companies only do this for every fifth or 20th lot. Xymogen’s validation extends to packaging and controlling the level of humidity because it affects how ingredients oxidize,” says Burdette. Gary Kracoff, a registered pharmacist and naturopathic doctor at Johnson Compounding & Wellness, in Waltham, Massachusetts, researches the nutraceuticals that he carries and recommends for his clients. “I like professional-grade nutraceuticals because their formulas are researched and science-based. They are excellent products for specific purposes. Individuals that take the medical foods come to appreciate their disease-modifying therapeutic results. While pricier, they include healthier sources of carbohydrates and fats, as well as natural, rather than synthetic nutrients to provide what the body needs to return to a state of balance,” says Kracoff. Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings who blogs at LindaSechrist.com.

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The Monthly Naturally Healthy Pet Section Starts Here!

Making Them Sick? How We Impact Our Pets’ Well-Being by Mary Oquendo

H 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

ow often do we see pet owners and their pets sharing the same illness and behaviors? Why is that? Is it coincidental genetic disposition, living in the same physical environment, or because of the ties that bind? It is most likely a combination of all three. We can’t alter genetic disposition. We can only take precautions if we are aware of possible issues. A talk with our primary physician and our pet’s veterinarian may offer valuable insight.

Two Ways We Impact Our Pets’ Health The first is because we live in the same space. Our homes, diet and exercise habits directly affect our pets. Toxins in the air settle to the lowest 18 inches of any environment. Our pets live in those 18 inches. Look at cleaning supplies, laundry detergent and rug cleaners. Are they all-natural products or ones loaded with chemicals? What is the energy level in the home? Is it chaotic or calm? Are family members fighting, obnoxious teenagers wreaking havoc or little kids just running amok?

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Provide a quiet place for pets to retreat to when they feel overwhelmed. It can be as simple as a covered crate in a quieter part of the home. Is the pet fed an appropriate highquality diet, or are they sharing our bad eating habits? There is no regulation in the pet industry regarding pet labeling and quality of ingredients. A Google search on how to read pet food labels will bring up many sites to enlighten us. Studies indicate that in any given household, pets and owners tend to be the same percentage overweight. When was the last time we went for a walk with our pets? There are numerous studies that indicate that stress is a leading cause of many chronic medical conditions. Our pets react to our moods so our being stressed and anxious about life affects them, whether it is because of a high-stress job, being overextended in payments, or holidays and gatherings. We impact our pet’s health and behaviors with our own. Etheric cords, sometimes called ethereal or energy cords, are what binds us on an energetic level to the people and animals around us. As animals are so giving,

they don’t necessarily put up boundaries to protect themselves from us. As a consequence, they can take on our burdens. In particular, they can take on our stress.

What Changes Can We Make? Many veterinary schools and research centers are now studying obesity, diabetes, heart disease, cancer and more in our pets and how they are common risk factors for both pets and owners. We can help our pets by: • making positive changes in our house- holds, from cleaners and diets to exercise and reducing chaos. • starting to take care of ourselves. It will trickle down to our pets. Meditations, yoga, energetic therapy, massage and better diets are ways to reduce stress and improve health. • grounding or “earthing” to have a better connection to the Earth with bare feet on the ground. The earth naturally neutralizes free radicals, which has been shown to improve health. Take pets for a walk and let their paws hit the earth as well.

• harnessing the power of crystals. Choose which one feels right. As they can be choking hazards for our pets, keep them out of reach. • soothing both the two- and four-legged “savage beast” with music, whether it is chakra-balancing music designed for animals or something else. • meditating as a family, Studies have shown that meditating 12 minutes a day has numerous medical and emotional benefits. It can bring the family and pets closer together. While we cannot control genetics, we can alter our pet’s experience. It’s a safe assumption to recognize and acknowledge that pets read and adapt to our moods, tribulations and environment; we can oftentimes mitigate the health consequences with knowledge and action. Mary Oquendo is a Reiki Master, advanced crystal master and certified master tech pet first aid instructor. She can be reached at Mary@PawsitivelyPretty.com or PawsitiveEd.com. See ad, this page.

Natural Living Directory 2018

Cats Hear Up to 64,000 Hz

natural pet

PETS ¤ MUSIC Each Species Grooves to Its Own Beat by Sandra Murphy Just as dogs’ and cats’ noses are more

efficient than ours, they also have better hearing, reacting to a broader and higher range of frequencies and vibrations. “We sense our world from where our ears are. Our plane is generally five to six feet high; animals closer to the ground hear things differently,” says Janet Marlow, founder and CEO of Pet Acoustics, in Washington Depot, Connecticut. The internationally renowned musician, composer and sound behaviorist has invented species-specific music based on her 30 years of research. Humans hear up to 23,000 Hertz (Hz), which differs substantially from that of many other creatures (lsu.edu/deafness/ HearingRange.html). A Hertz is a standard unit of frequency set at one cycle per second.

Makushin Alexey/Shutterstock.com

Horses Hear Up to 33,500 Hz Marlow found that horses prefer rhythmic pieces matching their natural movements. “When a Tennessee walking horse breeder played music during a birth, the foal and mother recovered faster than usual.” After that, “The horses ran to the barn upon hearing the same music.” Sally Morgan, a physical therapist and advanced certified Tellington TTouch practitioner 94

in Northampton, Massachusetts, who has enjoyed freestyle performance riding, says, “I liked to play our songs in the barn. Five CD players can keep horses relaxed most of the day. They don’t like country-western music; it’s often sad and in the wrong cadence. Classical music like Bach is calming. When I played Pachelbel’s Canon in D on my flute, my Morgan gelding, Ten Penny Moonshine, listened for hours.”

Rabbits Hear Up to 42,000 Hz “Rescued rabbits like long tones, common in music accompanying yoga or reiki,” Morgan relates. “Long tones hold a chord with layers of notes on top.”

Dogs Hear Up to 45,000 Hz “People hear in stereo, animals in mono,” says Marlow. It’s why dogs tilt their heads left to right—to allow more sound waves into their ears—collecting information from various angles. Sound frequency and intensity keeps an animal alive in nature; they learn to flee in another direction, not analyze. Separation anxiety is often due to a sound the dog doesn’t recognize, Marlow explains. Sound triggers behavior, whether good or bad, as dogs relax or are stressed. Music releases tension from their being ever-vigilant as seen in their posture. To understand what a dog hears, sit or crawl on the floor. Electronic speakers are usually positioned at heights conducive for our ears, not theirs. “For the holidays, my dogs and horses like We Three Kings, The Holly and the Ivy and especially Greensleeves for their baroque roots and repeating patterns,” notes Morgan.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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Marlow credits her cat, Osborn, with inspiring her interest in music for animals. When Osborn was injured, she visited the veterinary hospital and sang to him to keep him calm. Her home state’s Litchfield Veterinary Hospital became her initial testing ground for species-specific music. “We use Pet Acoustics music boxes in the cat ward, recovery rooms and exam rooms,” says Heather Florkowski, a certified technician at the facility. “In our experience, stress inhibits the healing process. Like people, animals are anxious when ill and visiting the doctor’s office. Music helps ease their stress. At home, when I move the music box to another room, my dog follows it.” “During a TTouch session, cats are completely relaxed when I play New Age music for them,” says Morgan. “Pick music that fits the cat’s personality. You can tell what they like from their body language; it’s not always what you’d expect.”

Aquarium Fish Hear Up to 3,000 Hz “Fish are frantic animals that must always anticipate their next meal,” says Sam Williamson, a former marine biologist in Edinburgh, Scotland. “When I started playing classical music at feeding time, I noticed my three betas became calmer. A piece by Benjamin Britten, started two minutes before feeding, led them to expect food only when the music played.”

Domesticated Birds Hear Up to 8,500 Hz In the wild, birds are part of a flock. At home, they’re often solitary. “Birds are the most musical and communicative of all animals,” remarks Marlow. “Without companionship, birds can get neurotic and pull their feathers out. Provide a sense of the outdoors by including nature sounds in played music.” “Animals need us to be aware of their hearing,” Marlow advises. “Holistic pet people have addressed improved diet and medical procedures. Understanding how music supports their well-being also enables us to better care for them.” Connect with Sandra Murphy at StLouisFreelanceWriter@mindspring.com.

pet resource guide ADOPTION/RESCUE ANIMALS IN DISTRESS INC 238 Danbury Rd, Wilton 203-762-2006 Animals-In-Distress.com

BRIDGEPORT ANIMAL CONTROL 236 Evergreen St, Bridgeport 203-576-7727

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

BULLY BREED RESCUE PO Box 953, New Canaan BBRCT@yahoo.com BullyBreedRescueInc.org

COMMUNITY CATS PO Box 4380, Stamford CommunityCatsCT@yahoo.com CommunityCatsCT.org

DANBURY ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY (DAWS) 147 Grassy Plain St, Bethel 203-744-3297

FRIENDS OF FELINES INC PO Box 8147, Stamford 203-363-0220 Cats@AdoptAPet.org AdoptAPet.org

LOOKING GLASS ANIMAL RESCUE Ridgefield LGARinc.org On Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

NFSAW 223 State Rt 37, New Fairfield 203-746-2925 NFSAW.org

PET ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY INC (PAWS) 504 Main Ave, Norwalk 203-750-9572 PAWSCT.org

PET PROTECTORS 2490 Black Rock Tpke, #453, Fairfield 203-330-0255 PetProtectorsRescue.org

RIDGEFIELD OPERATION FOR ANIMAL RESCUE (ROAR) 45 South St, Ridgefield 203-438-0158 ROAR-Ridgefield.org

STRAYS AND OTHERS PO Box 473, New Canaan 203-966-6556 StraysAndOthers@hotmail.com

ANIMAL COMMUNICATION/ PET SITTING GWEN GANGI

Fur to Feathers Pet Services Monroe • 203-610-2444 (call or text) FurToFeathersPets@gmail.com FurToFeathers.com Gwen Gangi has been an animal communicator all her life and has been doing consultations for the past 23 years. Practical for any situation, you enter into a 3-way conversation to get and give information needed. Consultations done over the phone or in person, including home visits. Workshops on animal communication available.

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VETERINARY SERVICES NUTMEG SPAY/NEUTER CLINIC 25 Charles St, Stratford 203-690-1550 • NutmegClinic.org

The Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic is a low-cost, high-volume facility for cats and dogs, the first such professional clinic in Fairfield County. The clinic offers other low-cost services during the spay/ neuter appointment. Nutmeg honors state spay/ neuter vouchers at face value from adopted shelter pets and qualified low-income families, and offers further low-cost incentives to nonprofit rescue groups. Pit bulls and mixes are welcome at an even more reduced rate, and the clinic offers spay/neuter and vaccine discounts for feral cats. See ad, page 93.

PET ASSISTANCE, INC

PO Box 2015, New Preston 860-355-PETS • GetaPet@gmail.com PetAssistanceInc.org Pet Assistance helps keep pets in their homes in times of financial and medical crises, providing emergency veterinary subsidies to pet owners in financial need. We only give grants for pets that have a good prognosis, unless the knowledge we gain from the treatment or surgery may help future animals in need.

MARY OQUENDO

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Natural Living Directory 2018

COSMIC RHYTHMS

2018

A YEAR OF TRANSITION by Michele Leigh

he planets are continuously moving around us; these everchanging energies are capable of influencing our moods. Knowledge is power and knowing about the planetary movements can help us plan for the next year ahead. Here is an overview of the main astrological events for 2018. The Sun is one of our luminaries. It represents our life force and what motivates us to get up in the morning. As it moves through each sign of the zodiac, it heats up the sky with a particular archetype. The Sun embodies each sign for about a month so we feel the energy of the entire zodiac each year. One major aspect of the Sun this year is a conjunction with Jupiter, our planet of expansion. When the Sun and Jupiter meet in the sky, there is a feeling that anything is possible. The day of this auspicious conjunction between Sun and Jupiter is November 26. Both planets will be in the sign of the centaur, Sagittarius. This fire energy could be used to do something inspirational on a grand scale. The Moon is our other luminary and the fastest moving planet in the sky. It represents our emotions. The Moon moves through each sign of the zodiac quickly, only staying for two to three days in each sign. It is important to pay particular attention to the new and full phases of the Moon and the sign of the zodiac it activates. The New Moon is for setting intentions for a 28-day cycle. They are a good time to start a new routine or habit. The Full Moon is for releasing those things that no longer serve us.

Let’s mark our calendars for these powerful Moon days: • • • • • • •

February 15 at 4:05pm: New Moon in Aquarius March 1 at 7:51pm: Full Moon in Virgo March 17 at 9:11am: New Moon in Pisces March 31 at 8:37am: Full Moon in Libra April 15 at 9:57pm: New Moon in Aries April 29 at 8:58pm: Full Moon in Scorpio May 15 at 7:48am: New Moon in Taurus

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

May 29 at 10:19am: Full Moon in Sagittarius June 13 at 3:43pm: New Moon in Gemini June 28 at 12:53am: Full Moon in Capricorn July 12 at 10:48pm: New Moon Cancer July 27 at 4:20pm: Full Moon Total Aquarius August 11 at 5:58am: New Moon in Leo August 26 at 7:56am: Full Moon in Pisces September 9 at 2:01pm: New Moon in Virgo September 24 at 10:52pm: Full Moon in Aries October 8 at 11:47pm: New Moon in Libra October 24 at 12:45pm: Full Moon in Taurus November 7 at 11:02am: New Moon in Scorpio November 23 at 12:39am: Full Moon in Gemini December 7 at 2:20am: New Moon in Sagittarius December 22 at 12:48pm: Full Moon in Cancer

Our planet of communication, Mercury, moves quickly and erratically. The energy is quick-minded and inquisitive. It moves through all signs of the zodiac with three retrograde periods where it appears to move backwards. Mercury turns retrograde more frequently than any other planet. This year, all three retrograde periods are in fire signs representing a potential for a lot of hot air. These are not times to try and push things forward or start something new. These periods are best used for re-organizing and reflecting. Mercury retrograde periods can be riddled with miscommunications so double-check the details and give yourself extra time during these Mercury retrograde periods: • March 22 to April 15 in the sign of Aries • July 26 to August 19 in the sign of Leo • November 16 to December 6 in the signs of Sagittarius Venus, the planet that governs our relationships, will move through all signs except Sagittarius this year. Venus has a retrograde from October 5 to November 16 in the sign of Scorpio. She goes into the retrograde in Scorpio, which is an uncomfortable sign for Aphrodite, who wants everything to be pleasant and agreeable. But Venus comes out of the retrograde in her governing sign of Libra, putting her in a harmonious mood. Former partners tend to appear during retrograde periods, completing a story or cycle. Venus retrograde periods are times when we re-assess what—and who—we value. Our inner warrior, Mars, represents the way we deal with confrontation. It moves a bit slower than the other personal planets, and this year he only embodies five zodiac signs. Our desire to take action will be flavored by the top half of the zodiac: Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces. Mars is in retrograde from June 26 to August 27 in the sign of Aquarius. When Mars is in its retrograde cycle, we are forced to re-assess our approach to getting what we want. Rather than directly asserting our desires, we should tend towards introspection. Jupiter is expansion as it magnifies everything it touches. Philosophy and higher education are themes of Jupiter. This generous, lucky planet will be in the deep waters of passionate Scorpio

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for most of the year, activating our need to probe and research. In November, Jupiter moves back into Sagittarius, its ruling sign. This year Jupiter is retrograde from March 8 to July 10 in the sign of Scorpio. During the retrograde period, we should take time to re-assess the root of our beliefs. Saturn, our planet of limits and boundaries, has returned home to its ruling sign of Capricorn. It takes almost thirty years for Saturn to make its way around the zodiac. This year, he returns to his rightful earthy throne and activates our urge to re-evaluate our structures, both on a physical and emotional level. Saturn will spend almost three years in this sign so use the slow but determined energy of the goat to rebuild our foundations. In addition to seeking advice from the experienced, study history and traditions during the Saturn retrograde from April 17 to September 6 in Capricorn. When the Nodes of the Moon get within 15 degrees of our luminaries, we have an eclipse. An eclipse represents a powerful time to pause and reflect. The emphasis of the eclipses in 2018 is on the Aquarius/Leo axis with a sneak peek at the North Node’s journey into Cancer. This year’s eclipses will be marked by a desire to find and embrace our authentic self. Use these eclipse dates to meditate in darkness and then light a white candle to welcome back the light. • Partial Solar Eclipse on February 15 in Aquarius • Partial Solar Eclipse on July 12 in Cancer • Total Lunar Eclipse on July 27 in Aquarius • Partial Solar Eclipse on August 11 in Leo

INSPIRED LIVING

Five Ways to Make the Year Sparkle

by Kelly Martinsen

nspiration may strike anywhere, at any time. The trick is nurturing the process to appear on demand when we need it most. Often, an inspiration is sparked when we perceive someone being selfless, courageous, physically extraordinary or deliciously creative. However, we don’t need to wait for outside stimulus when we can discover internal stirrings by invoking any of these self-inspiring tips. Just Do It – The Nike slogan has never been more appropriate. We all have something we’ve thought about doing or trying. Whether traveling to a new location, trying a different sport, joining a new-tous group or club, or making more friends, don’t put it off—just do it. Defeat allodoxaphobia – It’s the fear of others’ negative opinions. Everyone suffers from this to some extent, and it can hinder us from living our best life. Former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt remarked, “You wouldn’t worry so much about what others think of you if you realized how seldom they do.” Volunteer – A common excuse for not volunteering is, “I don’t have the time.” Next year, make the time. When researchers at the London School of Economics

examined the relationship between volunteering and happiness in a large group of American adults, they found that the more people volunteered, the happier they were. Journal – People often journal as a way to reflect upon their lives. This can be helpfully revealing, but rather than looking back, look forward, using a journal as a blueprint to manifest the most inspired year yet. Write out plans and dreams with the steps needed to achieve them. Gratitude – This is the big one. One way to be and stay inspired is by starting off each day in a state of gratitude. Every morning before getting out of bed, think of at least three things to be grateful for. By doing this, we recognize the blessings we have and greet the day in a positive frame of mind. It’s a perfect way to end each day, too. When someone routinely inquires, “How are you?” answer, “I am grateful.” Our time on Earth is not infinite. With only so many days promised, let’s vow to live them inspired. Kelly Martinsen is publisher of Natural Awakenings Long Island and author of the new book A Year of Inspired Living (Publisher@AwakeLI.com).

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The North Node will leave Leo and move into Cancer on November 7, ushering in an emotionally sensitive energy that will prevail until May of 2020. Michele Leigh is an astrologer, author and podcaster. A practitioner of ancient astrology and planetary magic, she is an active member of OPA, the Organization for Professional Astrology. Connect at DarkMoonAstrology.com. Natural Living Directory 2018

calendar of events

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9

All Calendar events must be received by the 10th of the month prior to publication and adhere to our guidelines. Calendar submissions must be entered online at eNaturalAwakenings.com: click on “submit calendar” at the very top of the page.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1 OLLI at UConn Spring 2018 Open House – 9:30am-12:30pm. Anyone interested in life-long learning at UConn Osher Institute, a non-credit learning program for adults age 50+, is invited to attend. Fun day of engaging presentations, refreshments and area lunch discounts. RSVP. Free. The University of Connecticut, 99 East Main St, Waterbury. 203-236-9924. Osher@UCONN.edu.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2 Reiki Level 1 Workshop – 10am-5:30pm.With Gigi Benanti. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki Master (20 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. 2 manuals and certificate. $125. Angelic Healing Center for Reiki, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

mark your calendar Albertson Memorial Church February Events: Spiritual/Psychic Fair Saturday, February 3 • 11am-4pm • $35+ Saturday, March 3 • 11am-4pm • $35+ Sound Healing & Tibetan Singing Bowls With Michele Clifton Saturday, February 3 • 5:30-7pm • $30/$35 RSVP: KathleenJamesMedium@gmail.com Ancestral Patterning With Laura Aversano Sunday, February 25 • 1-3pm • $40 RSVP: AmyJRecalde@gmail.com Manifestation Mandelas With Ruth Shillig Saturday, March 3 • 2-4pm • $25 Roland Comtois Guest Minister Sunday, March 11 • 11am-12:30pm

Ongoing Events: Sunday Service 11am-12:30pm • Donation Beginner Psychic & Mediumship Class Wednesday • 7-9pm • $20 Cancelled Services & Events will be posted on our website Albertson Memorial Church 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich 203-556-9521 Info@AlbertsonChurch.org AlbertsonChurch.org 98

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3 Reiki 1st Degree Workshop – 9:30am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki Master (20 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. 2 manuals and certificate. $125. Angelic Healing Center for Reiki, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@ snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com. Intimate Alien LIVE at SOUND – 2-4pm. Intimate Alien is an ET aspect of Rachel Archelaus. She lives on a planet with instant manifestation and holds no resistance to creating a life of true joy. You can ask her about purpose, manifesting, being multidimensional, how society works on her planet and anything else you can think of. $35. Sound Center Arts, 31 Hawleyville Rd, Newtown. 203-414-5694. Rachel@Sephyrus.com. Sephyrus.com. Wisdom of the Womb – 6-8pm. Find out how your time growing and developing in the womb impacts your life now. This 9-month period in the womb, and how your mom nurtured and cared for herself, dramatically impacts your growth and development. $20/beforehand, $25/at door. Heart Cave Studio, 78 Randall Dr, Trumbull. 203-767-5954. Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com. SoulHealingJourney.com.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 4 A Day of Diversified Healing – 12:30-4pm. Experience some of the myriad of services with the many gifted healers who are part of the Muktinath community. $40/two services; $80/four services; $100/ full event pass. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail. com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 5 Heal Your Mind, Heal Your Life: Lecture with Leesa Sklover, PhD, LPC – 7-8pm. Techniques in music therapy, yoga therapy, mindfulness and imagery to bring peace in challenging times. $25/donation appreciated. Madison Beach Hotel, Madison. Register: 917-860-0488. DrSklover@gmail.com.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 6 Heal Your Mind-Heal Your Life Workshop – 9:30am-1:30pm. Music Therapy/Yoga Therapy workshop. Kriyas, meditation and breathwork aimed at healing the mind and bringing awareness of our essence in difficult times. Aimed at all practitioners and anyone interested in yoga and music. $95. $20/lunch if desired. The Madison Beach Hotel, Madison. Register: 917-860-0488. DrSklover@gmail.com. Artistic Vision Boards – 7-9pm. Use your own artistic talent to create a personal vision board that inspires and motivates you to obtain your dreams. Standard art supplies provided. Pre-registration required. $30. The Sacred Spirit, 135 Clover Hill Dr, Stamford. 203-344-9311.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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Singing Bowls and Vocal Toning Worikshop – 7-8:30pm. With Eileen Byrne, Reiki Master. Learn to play singing bowls and use your voice to promote healing. No experience necessary. Call or email to register. $25. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center, 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-486-2142. Sullieb@sbcglobal.net.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10 Reiki 1 – 10am-5pm. Learn the techniques of self healing, using the universal energy. $160. $60 deposit required by 2/1.The Sacred Spirit, 135 Clover Hill Dr, Stamford. 203-344-9311.

markyourcalendar STEER YOUR SHIP THROUGH THE SEA OF LIFE … NO MATTER HOW ROUGH THE WATERS Saturday, March 31 • 10am-5pm Join Maria Corsaro-Hopko and Theresa Crisci for a day of self-discovery and true self-acceptance in an environment of genuine love and nurturing. Use of the Pathwork Lectures and 12 Powers will lead to understanding and empower change and divine expansion. Participants will be presented with tools for living a happy life. $125 per person Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, Norwalk For more information, call Theresa Crisci at 203-494-8846 Register online at UnityCenterNorwalk.org (Go to Workshops/Classes/Events or Calendar)

markyourcalendar 13TH OCTAVE/ LAHOCHI - LEVEL 1 with Dr. Eilis Philpott of Soul Healing Journey, LLC Saturday, March 10 and Sunday, March 11 Eilis is one of two teachers approved by Linda Dillon and the Council of Love to teach the 13th Octave LaHoChi. This magnificent gift is the anchoring of our divinity in physicality, as we move from the ascension process to the creation process. The 13th Octave LaHoChi is a quantum leap available now to the healers and people of Nova Earth. $250 including all materials $100 deposit required to register Payment plans available Registration required - 203-767-5954 Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com SoulHealingJourney.com/ 13th-octave-lahochi-level-1

Ayurveda and Yoga – 1:30-4:30pm. With Deirdre Breen. Learn how pranayama, asana and meditative practices affect the doshas kapha, pitta and vata, and the gunas. Individuals will gain an understanding of their prakriti and vrikriti doshas, and how yoga’s multi-limbed approach can re-establish balance whenever one is out of sorts. $45-$65. The Studio at Club Fit, 584 North State Rd, Briarcliff Manor, NY. 914-582-7816. YTAPresident@gmail.com. YTAYoga.com.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 20

Disarming Meltdowns: How to Manage Difficult Behaviors – 10-11:15am. With Kristie Liotta, MA, LPC. Does your child have meltdowns and tantrums that are hard to manage? Learn tools and techniques that will help you diffuse anger, anxiety, sensory overload and problematic behaviors. Free. The Offices of Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ste #6, Ridgefield. 203-438-4848. Info@DrRoseann.com. DrRoseann.com.

Healing the Sacral: Release Fear and Wounds – 2/13, 2/20 and 2/27. 6:30-8:30pm. Healing the Sacral is a series of three classes designed to open and activate your sacral chakra. Please join us for one week or all three. $25/per class for all three; $30/per class. Must pre-register. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 13

Angels of the Healing Field – 6:30-8:30pm. 4-week series: 2/15, 2/22, 3/1, 3/8. Learn to use an Angelic Heartlink to connect with each angel’s energy. Then, have the ideal opportunity to establish and strengthen your personal connection with each of the IET Healing Angels of the Energy Field. Must pre-register . $25/per class. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Monroe. 203-5185808. MuktinathHC@gmail.com. Muktinath HolisticCenter.com.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 23

Healing the Sacral: Open Creative Flow – 2/13, 2/20 and 2/27. 6:30-8:30pm. Healing the Sacral is a series of three classes designed to open and activate your sacral chakra. Please join us for one week or all three. $25/per class for all three; $30/per class. Must pre-register. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@ gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 14 Wellness Wednesday Workshop: Health Myths: Busted! – 12:30pm. The IHHS at WCSU presents the first in a series of workshops for the Spring semester. With Dr. Kenneth Hoffman of Sophia Natural Health Center. Free and open to the public. White Hall, Rm 127, Western Connecticut State University Midtown Campus, 181 White St, Danbury. 203-837-8559. AutuoriC@WCSU.edu. WCSU.edu/IHHS.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 16 Native American Teachings: Sacred Songs – 6:308:30pm. With Grandmother Nancy. Learn traditional, social and healing songs from several nations. Learn the sacred songs to call in the four directions for healing and prayer. Please pre-register. $20/suggested contribution. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@ gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

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Reiki Second Degree – 10am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/teacher (20 years). Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. Two 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. Healing Drum Circle – 6:30-7:30pm. Gathering of those who wish to experience the healing energy of the drum, the heartbeat of Mother Earth. Each Circle is directly guided by spirit, so the format tends to vary for each one. If you have a drum or rattle, please bring one with you. $25. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

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Natural Living Directory 2018

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 24 Reiki Second Degree Workshop – 9:30am-5pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/teacher (20 years). Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. Two powerful energy connections from my short Japanese/Usa Lineage. Two manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 27 Rewiring the Brain: What is Neurofeedback? – 10-11:30am. With Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, EdD, BCN, LPC, Board Certified in Neurofeedback. Neurofeedback therapy is a powerful, safe, nonmedication treatment for common childhood and adult issues and disorders. Free. The Offices of Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ste #6, Ridgefield. 203-438-4848. Info@DrRoseann. com. DrRoseann.com. Healing the Sacral: Activation and Power – 6:308:30pm. 2/13, 2/20 and 2/27. 6:30-8:30pm. Healing the Sacral is a series of three classes designed to open and activate your sacral chakra. Please join us for one week or all three. $25/per class for all three; $30/per class. Must pre-register. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail.com. MuktinathHolistic Center.com.

FRIDAY, MARCH 2 Full Moon Series: Native American with Grandmother Nancy – 6:30-8:30pm. Series will be offered at a full moon each month for the year. Explore a different culture, faith or tradition; their teachings on the moon and night skies; or their relationship to the particular moon of the month. Must preregister. $20. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail. com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

classifieds To place a Classified Listing: $1 per word. $25 minimum. Magazine deadline: 12th of month prior to publication. Email copy to NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

FOR RENT SOUTHBURY, CT. WELLNESS PRACTICE - private office available for rent. Single office in new suite, nicely decorated, quiet, shared waiting room. Great location. $525 monthly. 203-966-5509.

HELP WANTED DISTRIBUTORS WANTED for monthly deliveries of Natural Awakenings and other local publications. Perfect for a retired person or stay-at-home mom looking to earn some extra income and connect with their local community. Honesty and dependability are the most important characteristics of our distributors if you don’t have it in spades, please do not apply! Thomas@ManInMotionLLC.com.

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ongoing events

sunday Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 9:3010:45am. Relax, release and flow into wellness in beginner/level 1 yoga classes with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility and strength. Modifications suggested and props used when needed. $5/donation per class. Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. HCC.Yoga. Wendy@gmail.com. HCCYoga.org. Satsang Meditation – 9:30-11am. Satsangs are wonderful spiritual and community gatherings of like-minded people. Satsangs with Shanti Mission Healers are filled with music, mantra, meditation, spiritual instruction/discourse and spiritual blessings to help you reset, recharge and get ready for the week ahead. By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@ gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com. New Beginnings in Community Sunday Service – 10am. Join this group of spiritually-minded people embracing and honoring all world religions, belief systems, cultures and traditions. Come together to share thoughts, experiences and wisdom in a supportive environment. Free. Mystics By The Sea, 394 New Haven Ave, Milford. 203-980-6272. NewBeginningsInCommunity.Weebly.com. Family Meditation Program – 10-11:30am. Second and fourth Sunday. Ages 4-13. While the adults are meditating in the main building, young people can connect with others in their age-group, learn about mindfulness, compassion toward self and others. 203-244-3130. MMKeeler@gmail.com. ReddingMeditation.org. Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Celebration Service – 10:30am-noon. With Rev. Shawn Moninger. Inspiring message supports your spiritual unfoldment with thought provoking, soul -healing topics and uplifting mus-c. By donation. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org. Sunday Morning Meditation – 11-11:45am. Experience stillness and peace, establish a regular practice, reduce stress and tension, and enhance health and well-being. Meditation class for beginners and experienced meditators. $5/donation per class. Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. HCC.Yoga. Wendy@gmail.com. HCCYoga.org. Sunday Albertson Memorial Church Service – 11am-12:30pm. Join us for inspirational sermons, meditation, energy healing and messages from Spirit. By donation. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-637-4615. Info@AlbertsonChurch.org. AlbertsonChurch.org.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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Monthly Mystical Market – 11am-4pm. Third Sunday. Psychics, mediums, intuitives, CT artisans, vendors and holistic practitioners. Free admission, vendors prices vary. The Ruby Tree, 670 Main St S, Woodbury. 203-586-1655. Christina@ TheRubyTreeCT.com. TheRubyTreeCT.com. Ignite your Spirit Healing Clinic – 11:45am-2pm. Second Sunday. Muktinath healing clinics are a great way to try out or receive ongoing assistance with anything life throws your way. Must register in advance. $20/suggested contribution. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Monroe. 203-5185808. MuktinathHC@gmail.com. Muktinath HolisticCenter.com. Reiki Healing Clinic – 11:45am -2pm. First Sunday. Experience the beneficial effects of relaxation and feeling of peace from Reiki healing. Reiki strengthens and balances the body, mind and spirit. Must register in advance. $20/suggested contribution. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

monday Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness, simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. 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 Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 12:30-2pm. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness, simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Monthly Information Sessions at The Graduate Institute – 6:30-7:30pm. Join us for an info session every 2nd Tuesday of the month at The Graduate Institute. Please contact us to let us know that you’ll be attending. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. 203-874-4252. Night of Love and Light: Prayer Circle, A Course in Miracles. – 6:30-8pm. With Joan Goss. Prayers are answered. Join us in these open, ongoing and experiential classes designed to help you experience the lessons wisdom of A Course in Miracles. $20. Sacred Spirit, 135 Clover Hill Dr, Stamford. 203-344-9311. Piscese28@aol.com.

Kundalini Yoga – 7-8:15pm. Second and fourth Tuesday. With Gina Cassetta, KRI-certified teacher. Kundalini yoga can help withstand the stress in life and tune into the deep peace within. Modifications given. $15/class; $75/six classes. Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Danbury, 24 Clapboard Ridge Rd, Danbury. 203-788-2606. CassettaWoman@ hotmail.com. Reiki Share – 7-8:30pm. First Tuesday of the month. With June and Tracy. Come join our circle of practitioners for sharing and caring and healing. All levels of practitioners are welcome. Please RSVP. $20/drop-in. Kindred Spirits, 197 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-938-3690. Reiki Share – 7-9pm. Second Tuesday. Practice and enhance your Reiki healing and grow your intuition. All will receive healing time and practice time. You must have completed at minimum Reiki Level I in order to fully participate. $15/suggested contribution. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail. com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com. Reiki Healing Shares—7:30-9:30pm. First and third Tuesdays. With Gigi Benanti, Usui Reiki Master/ Teacher. For Reiki practitioners only. Includes short instruction and discussion. Must RSVP. $20. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

wednesday A Course In Miracles With Joan Goss – Noon1:15pm. We welcome you to join us in these open, ongoing and experiential classes designed to help you experience the lessons and wisdom of A Course in Miracles. $20. Sacred Spirit, 135 Clover Hill Dr, Stamford. 203-344-9311. Piscese28@aol.com. Tai Chi Classes – 6:30-7:30pm. With June Fagan, Tai Chi Instructor. A slow movement meditation for all levels of fitness. Known to reduce stress, increase focus and balance and improve self and well-being. $25/drop-in; $85/1 class per week; $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 1197 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-938-3690. Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 6:45-8pm. Relax, release and flow into wellness in beginner/ level 1 yoga classes with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility and strength. Modifications suggested and props used when needed. $5/donation per class. Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. HCC.Yoga.Wendy@ gmail.com. HCCYoga.org. Dream Group—7pm. 6 weeks: 1/24-3/7. Illuminate your New Year. Dream expert, Dr. Dianne Frost, will guide you in understanding dreams and using their energy and wisdom to actualize your heart’s desires. Bring dream journal, notebook, pen and imagination. $120/6 weeks. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org. Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org.

Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Active style meditation that often includes chanting, music and requires your active participation. All faiths and cultures are welcomed. By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@ gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com. Holistic Moms Network Fairfield County, CT Chapter – 7:30pm. Second Wednesday. Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care, 156 East Ave, Norwalk. Home.Homewebs.com/ HMNFairfieldCtyCT. Learn to Love Yourself – 7:30-9:30pm. Second Wednesday. With Ginny Brown and Ellen Kratka. Little-known spiritual truths applied to everyday life. Let go of negative judgment and unconditionally accept yourself. $40. By phone or internet. 203-263-2643. E.Kratka@sbcglobal.net. Results-BeyondBelief.com. Turning Point S.H.A.R.E. Divorce Group – 7:30-9:30pm. Third Wednesdays. Offering support, healing, advocacy, resources and educrcation for women in the process of, or recently divorced. $20, $150/10-session card. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center, 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointShare.com.

thursday Kundalini Yoga and Music Meditation – 9:3010:30am. With Leesa Sklover, PhD, C-IAYT, Certified Yoga Therapist, Kundalini Yoga Teacher. Experience the yoga of awareness weekly to heal your mind and your life. All welcome. Register for first class. $15 per class/monthly discount. Short Beach Union Church, 14 Pentacost St, Branford. 917-860-0488. DrSklover@gmail.com. LoveLifeProductions.net. Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 9:30-11am. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. Simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life. Discover the benefits of becoming more present. By donation. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 6:45-8pm. Relax, release and flow into wellness in beginner/ level 1 yoga classes with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility and strength. Modifications suggested and props used when needed. $5/donation per class. Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. HCC.Yoga.Wendy@ gmail.com. HCCYoga.org. Reiki Healing Circle —7-9pm. First Thursday. All welcome. Share and experience Reiki. Please join us while we enjoy a peaceful, powerful night of healing. Hosted by Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher. $20. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com, UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

friday

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. Discussion with The Higher Realms – 7-9:30pm. Last Friday. Bring your heartfelt questions and receive the wisdom of The Ascended Masters and The Divine Feminine specifically for you as channeled by Ginny Brown. $45. Address provided upon registration. HeartAndHealing@hotmail.com. GinnyBrown.net.

saturday Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 9:3010:45am. Relax, release and flow into wellness in beginner/level 1 yoga classes with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility and strength. Modifications suggested and props used when needed. $5/donation per class. Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. HCC.Yoga. Wendy@gmail.com. HCCYoga.org. Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness, simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. 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, 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. See Me As I Am: Meditation and Float Yoga Class (2-3pm) and Women’s Spiritual Wellness Collaboratory (3-4pm) – Experience deep peace in a gentle water-themed yoga and meditation class. Followed by a women’s group focusing on empowerment, spiritual fitness and creativity through techniques and discussion. Choose one or both. $15/ one session. $30/both. Short Beach Union Church, 14 Pentacost St, Branford. Monthly Healing Circle – 4-5:30pm. First Sunday. With Susan Gagliardo, LPN, RM. Whether you are in need of healing or a healer wishing to share your gifts for the highest good of others, this group is for you. Everyone is welcome but you must pre-register. Free; $10/suggested donation. Acupuncture Works, 132A St, Rte 37, New Fairfield. 845-494-0090. Reiki4Wellness@aol.com. AcupunctureFeelsGood.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. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@ UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

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

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