June 2018 by Natural Awakenings Magazine

E HEALTHY LIVING E FR

Therapeutic Hypnosis Inner Wisdom Creates Positive Patterns

HEALTHY

PLANET

Eat Right to Sleep Well!

Paths to Holistic Recovery

Empowering Options Abound

Natural Skincare Matters

What’s In Your Products? June 2018 | Fairﬁeld County/Housatonic Valley Edition | eNaturalAwakenings.com June 2018

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EDUCATION TO FIT EVERY FAMILY Diverse and Inclusive Community Full-Day Drop-Off Flexible Homeschooling Acton Academy AP-Based College Prep STEM Programs with Labs Humanities Visual & Performing Arts Entrepreneurial Programs Makerspace

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Live Your Soul's Purpose | Attain Deep Peace Have Balance Around Giving and Receiving Have Loving, Supportive Relationships Have the Career that Sings to Your Soul 13th Octave LaHoChi Training

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June 21-24 Sharing the ight holistic Center, Avon, CT Investment

July 21 & 22 Ed Cleveland Sound Studio Manchester, CT includes all materials

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

Contents THE WISDOM OF THE SUBCONSCIOUS Hypnosis Changes Habits for Good

SHIFTING NEGATIVE BELIEF PATTERNS Simple Strategies Make Lasting Change

SUPPORTING RECOVERY

It Takes a Community

HEALTHY AND EMPOWERED RECOVERY

Holistic Approaches for Individual Paths

NATURAL SKINCARE MATTERS

Consumer Beware; You’re On Your Own

EAT RIGHT TO SLEEP WELL 10 Foods Help Us Relax and Rest

ECO-UPGRADES FOR AMERICA’S LANDMARKS

Monuments and Parks Adopt Sustainable Practices

PETS WELCOME HERE Happy Places to Live and Travel Together

DEPARTMENTS 7 news briefs 16 health briefs 18 global briefs 19 mastering yoga 24 therapy spotlight 25 practitioner profiles 40 healing ways 42 inspired table

eNaturalAwakenings.com

45 conscious 54 58 59 63 64 70 70

eating naturally healthy pet pet resource guide calendar classifieds resource guide cosmic rhythms 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.

in Na a o tion o o a a N d Na a a o Whole Body and Family From treating disease conditions to preventive healthcare, Dr. a uel believes in addressing the underlying cause of disease to resolve health issues.

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

Ingels Family Health

Fairﬁeld lace Fairﬁeld, CT www.ingelsfamilyhealth.com

Special Care ia

Dr. a uel oﬀers specialty care for autoimmune diseases and chronic immune dysfunction, yme disease, asthma and allergy, and childhood disorders.

Call for your F minute Consultation

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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. June 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 Ariana Rawls Fine Joy Herbst Brooke Adams Law Mary Oquendo Michael Rosenbaum SALES & MARKETING Alexa Ferrucci Nicole Miale 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 ART DIRECTOR Josh Pope 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

letter from publisher

e are all creatures of habit. Some are created intentionally, as in “I wear these kind of socks each day because they’re very comfortable,” and some are wholly unconscious, perhaps needing to be pointed out by others in our life because they are below the level of our awareness. Breaking bad habits is a necessary skill when it comes to self-improvement, but anyone who has tried to change a deeply ingrained pattern knows it isn’t easy. On the flip side, there’s no denying the deep sense of relief and even joy that can come with the breaking of an unhealthy habit and creation of a new, supportive one. It brings to mind something my dad used to say, “The thing about hitting Nicole Miale yourself in the head with a hammer is that it feels great when you stop.” How many of you can relate to that? I know I can! Bad habits taken to extreme become addictions. Sadly, it is likely we have all been confronted by the reality of addiction, whether in ourselves, a loved one or in our community. It is a sobering fact that addictive behaviors—whether alcohol, drugs, food, or technology (to name a few of the most prevalent)—are huge problems in our country. Over the years, many types of treatments have been used to treat those with addiction, but research demonstrates that addicts experience a high rate of treatment failure and relapse rates remain above 50%. Not good. But here’s the good news: holistic and nonconventional approaches are proving to support longer-lasting change and recovery for those struggling with addictive behaviors. Techniques such as hypnosis, yoga, mindfulness meditation, sound healing, and others are becoming critically important tools for individual recovery and success. In this issue our contributors discuss various techniques and ideas for creating positive patterns—with a spotlight on therapeutic hypnosis—and supporting recovery from addiction. The goal is to lead individuals and communities out of the mire and into a more harmonious existence, for the greater good of all. We hope the information presented provides information, insight and perhaps hope for anyone who has been affected previously or is currently seeking to make positive behavior changes in their life. I’m right there with you… and I’m putting down my hammer today. I’m ready to feel the joy and relief that comes from creating patterns that support my whole self and make it possible to rise above the worries of daily life without self-soothing through unhealthy means (in my case, food). I wish for you the strength, courage and support to do the same, in whatever ways make sense for you. With love and light,

© 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.

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

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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news briefs

Codependency and Personal Power Workshop

n June 23 from 11am to 3pm, certified life coach and bestselling author Lisa A. Romano will be discussing childhood programming, codependency, narcissistic abuse and what you can do to help reclaim your personal power. Lisa A. Romano Participants in the event in Trumbull will learn about shame and why children from abusive and neglectful homes struggle to live authentic lives. Romano will speak about codependency, why so many adults struggle with not feeling good enough and the 1-2-3 Process. Light refreshments will be served. Seats are limited. Limited hotel rooms are available at a discounted rate at the Marriott Hotel. If reserving a room, inform them you will be there for Lisa A. Romano’s event on June 23. Romano is an expert in the fields of codependency and narcissistic abuse recovery. To register, visit tinyurl.com/LisaARomano623. For more information, visit Lisa-A-Romano.MyKajabi.com. Location: Trumbull Marriott Merritt Parkway, 180 Hawley Ln, Trumbull.

New Sauna and Wellnes Center Opens in Stamford

aute Healing Oasis is Fairfield County’s new luxury wellness spa, featuring infrared sauna therapy, chromotherapy, aromatherapy, sound frequency therapy, massage therapy and BEMER electromagnetic therapy. Owners Jessica and Peter Chichester have created a respite from the outside world where guests can come relax, unwind and recharge. Infrared technology is a non-invasive form of light therapy that penetrates the body as much as three inches. This process heats muscle tissue and internal organs without heating the surrounding air. It has been shown to lower lactic acid levels, stimulate endorphins, kill pathogenic microorganisms and strengthen the immune system. Massage services at the spa range from traditional, Swedish and deep tissue to specialized prenatal, cancer, SOMA therapy and ELDOA methods. BEMER therapy can help improve microcirculation and promote blood flow in the smallest blood vessels, the microcapillaries. For more information, call 203-595-5304, email Info@HauteSauna.com or visit HauteHealingOasis.com. Location: 792 Pacific St, Stamford. See ad, page 28.

This Medicine of the Future is Here Now! PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) Treatments & Adult Stem Cell Therapy Advances in Regenerative Medicine allow Dr. Henry Sobo to offer these cutting edge technologies.

PRP - Platelet Rich Plasma

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A natural and safe, non-surgical method for healing: • PRP for Hair Restoration • PRP for Arthritis/Joints • PRP for Erectile Dysfunction

• Arthritis/joint problems–avoid steroids and surgeries. • Stem cells for your joints are being used by leading doctors and institutions around the country. • Stem cells are being applied for an expanding list of many other conditions.

Call for your FREE CONSULTATION with Henry C. Sobo, M.D. to see if these new, safe, and natural therapies are for you.

203-348-8805 Optimal Health Medical, LLC | 111 High Ridge Rd. Stamford, CT 06905 | www.drsobo.com June 2018

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New Festival to Rock Out in June

iverfront Music Revival has announced its inaugural music lineup, which offers a combination of music from Indie pop to New Orleans funk, reggae to bluegrass, and R&B to Americana Roots. Created by directors Derek Signore and Nicole Heriot-Mikula— who also helm Shelton’s Soupstock Festival—the June 9 and 10 festival will also feature local food trucks, craft beer from New Belgium Brewery and handcrafted drinks by Tito’s Vodka. Headlining performers include Ripe, Mates of State, Gangstagrass, and Brother Joscephus & the Love Revolution. Local and regional favorites coming to the stage are The Alpaca Gnomes, Creamery Station, Fattie Roots, Kat Wright, The Southern Belles, The Big Takeover and Nardy Boy. The Emerging Artists stage will be highlighting budding bands. The Vendor Village will be comprised of over 50 handmade artisans and nonprofit organizations, a Piece of Mind: Poetry & Words performance tent and more. And a large Family Fun Zone will cater to children 12 and under with a festival-wide Puppet Parade, Kids Hour and activities. Children 12 and under are free. The Rejuvenate & Relaxation Wellness Area, included in the ticket price and open from 11am-6pm, will feature providers such as Walnut Beach Wellness, Phoenix Yoga, Birth Partners of CT, Journey to Wellness, Young Living Essential Oils, Southern CT Chiropractic, EarthShip Studios and Common Bond Market. Event sponsors include: Hocon Gas, Liberty Bank, Talalay Global, Tuttle Insurance, One Way Limo, Tito’s Vodka and 99.1 PLR. The festival has partnered with End Hunger Connecticut! (EndHungerCT.org) in an effort to raise funds and awareness for the nonprofit organization; it is dedicated to ending hunger in the state by promoting access to good nutrition through federal nutrition assistance programs as well as advocating change for local, state and national programs. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit RiverfrontMusicRevival.com, Facebook.com/RiverfrontMusicRevival or Instagram.com/RiverfrontMusicRevival. Location: Veteran’s Memorial Park, 38 Canal St East, Shelton.

Family Fun at a Barn Dance

ome and celebrate the spring with Two Coyotes Wilderness School on June 3. Join for a fun family day of community dancing, feasting and welcoming in the warm days of summer. The 3-6pm event is for all ages and experience levels. Enjoy live music with Two Coyotes’s staff and bring a potluck dish to share. The suggested donation for the afternoon event is $10 for an individual or $20 for a family. Founded in 2000, Two Coyotes is a non-profit nature mentoring organization dedicated to creating a healthier, more connected future through connecting people to nature, community and their personal empowerment. They have programs in Granby, Newtown and Killingworth. For more information, visit Facebook.com/events/184233259071677. Location: Sticks and Stones Farm, 201 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown. 8

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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Ranger Ready Repellents Gets EPA Seal of Approval

HOLISTIC COUNSELING COACHING & HEALING

he PiC20 Group announced that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved its registration of Ranger Ready Repellents. Invented by co-founders Chris L. Fuentes and Ted Kesten, Ranger Ready is available just in time for the spring 2018 tick and mosquito season. “Ranger Ready is a new DEET-Free repellent that is highly effective against tick and insect bites. We took Picaridin, an alternative to DEET derived from piperidine found in pepper plants that has been widely used in Europe for 20 years. Our fragrance experts then created sophisticated scents such as Ranger Orange, that encourage consumers to wear repellents versus being put-off by how they feel and smell,” says CEO Fuentes. “We’re pleased that Ranger Ready will be blended in small batches, bottled and distributed directly from South Norwalk, CT,” adds Kesten. Ranger Ready Repellents’ brand and packaging were produced in collaboration with the Fairfield-based Product Ventures industrial design firm. The PiC20 Group, LLC is a privately held company that exclusively utilizes the active ingredient Picaridin to invent, manufacture and distribute DEET-Free tick and insect repellents.

Enhanced Reiki Healing One hour sessions

Coaching & Enhanced Reiki Healing One-and-a-half hour sessions

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Channeled Messages for the Soul with Roland Comtois

oland Comtois returns to The Liphe Balance Center for an evening of spiritual messages for everyday living. He will host an intimate group of eight on June 18 from 6:30 to 9pm to receive channeled messages from spirit. Come ready to receive spiritually charged energy and messages that will bring you closer to the journey you hope and pray for in your life. With an open heart, and a connection Roland Comtois to your angels, messages will be delivered to inspire your life. From the road you travel to the journey ahead, it will be a night of enlightened awareness. Due to the intimate group size, the cost is $250 for the evening. As a spiritual teacher and author of And Then There Was Heaven, A Journey of Hope and Love, Roland Comtois (BlessingsbyRoland.com) is a best-selling inspirational speaker at spiritual wellness centers, bookstores, entertainment venues, theatres, and integrative health fairs throughout the Northeast and Europe. For more information and to reserve a spot, call 203-912-2791 or visit LipheBalance.com/Events. Location: The LIPHE Balance Center, 36 Michaels Way, Weston.

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

Robin Ordan, L 203-561-8535

www.robinordanlcsw.com Located on the Old Greenwich/Stamford Border June 2018

news briefs

Save the Planet; Donate to Patients with Lyme

he Recycle For Lyme program is a combined effort of the Ticked Off Foundation and TerraCycle (Terracycle.com/en-US). Participants (individuals, Lyme groups, clubs or companies) collect specific materials/containers, ordinarily destined for the landfill or incinerators that are not considered traditional recyclable material. Once the shippable amount has been accumulated, participants request a prepaid UPS label and simply drop off the full boxes to ship to TerraCycle. Every piece of packaging TerraCycle receives will be converted into a $0.02 donation to the Ticked Off Foundation patient fund. TerraCycle will recycle the packaging into cool, new products, keeping these materials out of our landfills. The more recycling sent to them, the higher the donations. Collect at least two pounds of only glass and plastic vitamin and supplement bottles as well as their bottle lids and flexible packaging. For personal care packaging, collect at least 11 pounds of hair care, skin care and cosmetic packaging from any brand manufacturer. Note that any personal care packaging that is not plastic is not accepted. Accepted oral care and deodorant packaging include at least five pounds of only mouthwash and deodorant bottles/caps, toothpaste tubes/caps, soap packaging, floss containers, and toothbrushes from any brand manufacturer. With this new influx of donations, the foundation can bestow grants to the growing list of Lyme patients currently in crisis and reaching out to us. Not only will these efforts help save the environment by recycling material not ordinarily handled by traditional recycling plants—and therefore destined for the landfill or incinerators—but each piece will save a Lyme disease patient in need. The organization’s mission is to provide financial assistance and support to Lyme and tick-borne disease patients over the age of 25 who are in crisis. They do this through grants and counseling in an effort to stem the tide of Lyme-related suicides. For more information, visit TickedOffFoundation.org/Recycle-for-Lyme.

You Have a Choice!

We oﬀer non-medication alternatives for healing, including: Neurofeedback and Biofeedback , Counseling, Hypnosis, EFT/Tapping and our 360° Reboot® Program

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Chinese Medicine in China: A Pictorial Journey

oin Dr. Kenneth Hoffman, medical director for SOPHIA Natural Health Center, and Jessica Crofts, SOPHIA’s acupuncture resident and doctoral candidate, for a fun and informative view of Kenneth Hoffman their time studying medicine in China. The free Chinese Medicine in China: A Travelogue & Pictorial Journey 2018 presentation will take place on June 7 from 7-8pm in Brookfield. Dr. Hoffman will share tales of his most recent trip to Beijing and Shanghai where he participated in a two-week residency program at Shanghai University Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Crofts participated in a similar program in 2014. In addition to sharing lots of pictures and stories, refreshments will be served. To reserve a spot, call 203-740-9300. For more information, visit INM.center. Location: SOPHIA Natural Health Center, 31 Old Rte 7, Brookfield. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 66.

We treat the following conditions: ADHD / ADD / Executive Functioning Anxiety & Anxiety-Related Disorders Autism Behavioral & Social Issues Chronic Pain / Fibromyalgia Concussion / TBI Depression / Mood Issues Learning Disability / Dyslexia Lyme, PANDAS/PANS Chronic Health Conditions PTSD / Trauma Seizures Sleep Problems

More than #MeToo Event at Grace Farms

n June 15 from 7:30 to 9pm, join Grace Farms Foundation and Jane Doe No More for a free, powerful discussion about sexual assault, victim support and the importance of accurate police reporting. Grace Farms’ monthly Community Dinner will be held before the program from 6 to 7:30pm. The evening will feature guest panelists Donna Palomba, a survivor of sexual assault and the president/founder of Jane Doe No More, along with Mayor Neil O’Leary of Waterbury and the former Waterbury police chief involved in the investigation of Palomba’s assault. Additional panelists include Dylan Farrow, who will speak about the 1993 investigation of her sexual assault allegations against her adoptive father, actor and director Woody Allen. She will be joined by Hadar Lubin, MD, co-director of the Post Traumatic Stress Center in New Haven and assistant clinical professor in the Department of Psychiatry at Yale University School of Medicine. The panel discussion will be moderated by Rod Khattabi, director of safety and justice initiative advisor at Grace Farms Foundation, and a former federal agent who has investigated a variety of federal criminal violations. The price for the community dinner is $11 for adults and $6 for children. For more information on the event, visit GraceFarms.org/Events/ More-Than-MeToo. To find out more about the organization, visit JaneDoeNoMore.org. Location: Grace Farms Foundation, 365 Lukes Wood Rd, New Canaan.

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6 Green Hill Rd., Washington Depot CT Design with care by Right Brain Group. Photo by John Kane.

Run/Walk for Nature Sanctuary

landers Nature Center & Land Trust’s 4th Annual Field & Forest 5K will take place on June 8 at 6pm. It is an all-age walk/run through the woods and fields of Flanders, officially timed by Fast Track Timing. Enjoy picturesque nature sanctuary and a post-race celebration with local food trucks, craft beer, and live entertainment with the rock band, Root Six. Registration includes two food items and, for those over 21, a complimentary craft beer. For registrants over 12 years old, registration is $35 through May 31, $40 from June 1-7 and $45 on race day. For children 12 years old and under, it is $30 through June 7 and $35 on race day. All proceeds from the Field & Forest 5K will benefit Flanders Nature Center & Land Trust. This event is rain or shine; however, Flanders reserves the right to cancel in the event of lightening. Due to the terrain, this event cannot accommodate strollers or pets on the course. For more information and to register, visit FlandersNatureCenter.org/5k or LightboxReg.com/Flanders-Field-Forest-Trail-5k-Run_2018. Location: Sugar House on the Van Vleck Farm Sanctuary, Church Hill Rd, Woodbury.

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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 June 2018

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news briefs

Therapeutic Writing Class for Higher Creativity and Greater Intuition

anielle Sullo, a Therapeutic Writing Facilitator with a master’s in English Education, will be offering a therapeutic writing class from 6 Danielle Sullo to 8pm, June 20, at New Morning Market in Woodbury. Therapeutic writing is an ancient practice that invites us to explore thoughts and feelings through words and images. Writing can illuminate deeper beliefs, elucidate problematic thinking patterns and foster confidence. At the class, you will learn how to access your inner wisdom through journaling. No prior writing experience is necessary—this is not a formal writing class. After a short meditation and body-awakening activity, we will cycle through the senses as we experience aromatherapy journaling, stream of consciousness journaling, transcendentalist journaling, aesthetic journaling and reflective journaling. You will leave with the tools to create a daily journaling ritual that will promote awareness and openness to the messages within. Feel free to bring a favorite meditation pillow, yoga mat, journal and writing utensil to personalize your experience. The cost for the class is $15. Sullo is a graduate of Yale Center for British Art Visual Literacy Teacher Summer Institute and member of the Connecticut Writing Project-Fairfield Chapter. Her therapeutic writing class has been previously presented as a series at Safe Haven of Greater Waterbury. For more information, visit NewMorn.com. Location: 129 Main St N, Woodbury.

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Family-Oriented Nudist Resort Opens for the Season

Lessons Learned through Lyme Disease

he Gratitude Curve – Using the Lessons of Chronic Illness to Reach Personal Empowerment, written by local Connecticut author Gregg Kirk, is a new book now available on Kindle and Amazon.com. Not simply a memoir of one person’s conquest over a life-threatening affliction, the book focuses on the attitudes and hidden lessons that changed the trajectory of the author’s life for the better. Shining a spotlight on the pandemic of Lyme disease, Kirk dives into the unsettling details of his own symptoms, varied treatments and knowledge gained from his experiences. The storyline makes a dramatic departure from the expected focus on physical treatments to the uncharted realms of spirituality and mystical healing, and their very real impact on patients of chronic diseases. Taking this further, Kirk meticulously details his experiences in Brazil with the world-famous healer John of God. In his accounts, the author describes not only his own healing miracles, but those he witnessed of patients deemed terminal by their doctors and literally given up for dead. Since recovering from Lyme disease, the author has focused his efforts on helping patients with Lyme disease through organizations he has founded including Ticked Off Music Fest, Ticked Off Foundation non-profit patient fund, Lyme Recovery Clinic in Darien and LymeKnowledge.com. For more information, visit tinyurl.com/TheGratCurve.

ow open for visitors through late October, Solair Recreation League in Woodstock is a family-oriented resort and campground where people of all ages can relax and discover the freedom of recreation without clothing. Nudists (also known as naturists) have long held that nudism offers significant psychological benefits, such as improved body acceptance and confidence. Now a scientific study in the Journal of Happiness Studies has measurably demonstrated that, “individuals do experience increases in positive body-image, self-esteem and life satisfaction after participating in real naturist activities.” The key, it was found, is getting naked around strangers—that is, social nudity. Located on 360 secluded acres in Woodstock, Solair has been continuously owned and run by its members since 1934. Facilities include a solar-heated pool, pond with sandy beach, café, pickleball and volleyball courts, a pavilion and community center with activities every weekend, children’s events and more. Accommodations include rental cottages, tenting and RV sites. Solair is an inclusive community of people from all walks of life, and of all shapes and sizes. In its safe, non-judgmental and wholesome environment, all are welcome to visit and experience clothing-free relaxation and recreation. First-time visitors are encouraged to come on weekends, if possible. All visitors must provide picture identification, and agree to sexual and criminal background checks. For more information and rates, call 860-928-9174, email Info@ SolairRL.com or visit SolairRL.com. Location: 65 Ide Perrin Rd., Woodstock. See ad, page 40.

Universal Intelligence, LLC

Transform Your Life. Use Your Most Powerful Resource Your MIND lthea

Healer, Founder, irector Universal Intelligence, LLC Registered Certified Consulting Hypnotist Certified Relationship Coach Certified Bereavement Coach Certified Professional Coach Mental Fitness Coach EFT Practitioner cupressure of the Body Meridians Certified Reiki Practitioner Past Life Regressionist

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June 2018

news briefs

Midsummer’s Night Drum and Healing Circle

Fourth Annual Butterfly Party in Newtown

eana Paqua of Embody the Sacred is hosting an evening of drumming, healing and practices to connect us with the energy of the Summer Solstice. On June 21 from 7 to 9pm, the drum will escort you through spiritual and drumming practices to honor this sacred time of year where you welcome the warmth, inspiration and the first harvest. By taking time to honor the change of seasons and gather as a group in community, we can enhance our own health, vitality and connection with each other, Mother Earth Deana Paqua and the Divine in all beings. Eleven percent of the proceeds from this event will be donated to Green Chimneys school in Brewster, New York. The cost for the event, which takes place at Turning Point Healing Arts & Education Center in Ridgefield, is $22 per person. To register, contact Deana Paqua at Deana.Paqua@gmail.com. For more information, visit EmbodytheSacred.net. Location: Turning Point Healing Arts, LLC, 100 Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. See ad, page 9.

he 4th annual Catherine’s Butterfly Party will be held on June 9 from noon to 4pm in Newtown. Every year, Catherine Hubbard asked for a birthday party that would bring all of her favorite animals together; Catherine’s Butterfly Party is that wish fulfilled. This free, family-focused festival and pet adoption event features fun activities for adults and kids alike, including face painting, games, crafts, vendors, food trucks and live music. Sanctuary Book Worms will welcome a special guest, acclaimed author Elana K. Arnold, who will be signing her book, A Boy Called Bat. This story of first friendship will be the summer read for the Sanctuary Book Worms. The book can be ordered from Byrd’s Books at ByrdsBooks.com/Catherine-Violet-HubbardFoundation; they will have it for you at the Butterfly Party to be signed. Be sure to stop by and meet the author. For more information, visit CVHFoundation.org/4th-AnnualCatherines-Butterfly-Party. Location: Fairfield Hills Campus, 3 Primrose St, Newtown.

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cover artist

Tai Chi & Chi Gong

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Finding Her Treasure Holly Kallie

Expressing her world on paper and canvas has been the basis of Holly Kallie’s life for as long as she can remember. “Crayons and paints were an important part of my world at a very young age,” she recalls, “and the desire to paint or draw the people around me, using the lakes and beaches that I love as a setting, continues to be a driving force in my life.” Kallie developed this close affinity with water early in life during summers spent at her parents’ tiny cottage on a lake. Today, living in her own little lakeside retreat, the Wisconsin artist’s fascination is captured anew by the mercurial colors, reflections and mystery below the surface of the ever-changing waters. “For me, water carries the same essence or spirit of the women and children that I paint: flowing, changing, playful and elusive,” she advises. Achieving a soulful realism through the use of multiple layers of paint and glazes, Kallie continually refines her self-taught technique. “With my art, I seek to bring a sense of joy, love, peace and connection with our natural surroundings,” she says. “I hope my paintings take the viewer there.” View the artist’s portfolio at HollyKallie.com. June 2018

Preterm Births Down After Coal Plant Shutdown

When we’re feeling angry, stressed or overexcited, just 15 minutes of being alone without a device can put us into a more peaceful state, reports a University of Rochester study. Young adults, sitting in a comfortable chair away from their devices, were given something to read, told to think about something specific or not given any instruction. Some were asked to sit alone for 15 minutes a day for a week and keep a diary. In all cases, such solo time away from devices helped reduce intense emotions afterward.

After a polluting coal-fired power plant in Pennsylvania was shut down in 2014 by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulatory action, the chances of women living 30 miles downwind having a preterm birth fell by about 28 percent, report Lehigh University researchers. While the plant was operating, women in affluent New Jersey communities downwind had a 17 percent greater risk of having babies of very low birth weights—less than 5.5 pounds—than did women in other similar affluent areas.

Positive & Nature Based Psychology

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More than half of teens and young adults that have slaked their thirst with energy drinks report consequently suffering negative health consequences, reports a new study from Canada’s University of Waterloo. Of 2,055 Canadian participants between ages 12 and 24, 55.4 percent said they had negative health events afterwards. Of these, 26.5 percent trembled and felt jittery, 24.7 percent had faster heartbeats and 22.5 percent noted “jolt and crash” episodes—a spell of alertness followed by a sudden drop in energy. Another 5.1 percent experienced nausea or diarrhea and 0.2 percent, seizures. Most respondents said they drank only one or two energy drinks at a time.

Seek 15 Minutes of Device-Free Time

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Energy Drinks Hurt Youth Health

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health briefs

Supporting Addiction Recovery with Neurofeedback

Expanding Possibility Through Vision h

ubstance abuse is an ongoing community problem with alcohol, marijuana and opioid use being some of the most common substances of choice in the Northeast. Over the years, many types of treatments have been used to treat those with addiction, but research demonstrates that addicts experience a high rate of treatment failure. Relapse rates remain high, typically over 70 percent. Addiction is a complex issue with many experiencing a high rate of comorbid conditions (PTSD, ADHD, LD, etc.) that further complicate treatment. For example, unresolved trauma or impulsive behaviors can derail treatment. Thus, while treatment often involves offering supports to increase abstinence, it also needs to address other conditions. Practitioners have sought clinically valid treatments with a high rate of long-term treatment success for addiction. Neurofeedback, a type of brain-based therapy, has a proven track record of increasing abstinence rates since the 1970s. In the late 1980s, Drs. Peniston and Kulkosky developed a therapeutic EEG alpha-theta neurofeedback protocol for addiction. These pioneers in Neurofeedback for addiction not only conducted numerous research studies, but refined the protocols that are still successfully used more than 25 years later. Peniston and associates demonstrated significantly higher abstinence rates among alcoholics when they incorporated EEG biofeedback into the treatment protocol. Their series of research studies worked with a population of Vietnam War veterans diagnosed with comorbid alcohol abuse and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Eighty percent of subjects in these experiments were abstinent one-year post-treatment. Current research reflects similar findings with reports of approximately 50% to 80% success inpatient and 70% success outpatient. The alpha-theta neurofeedback protocol for addicts arises from these individuals’ deficiency in alpha waves (which are calming waves) which triggers substance use, especially alcohol, to increase alpha waves. Addicts are often hyper-aroused and find it hard to maintain a state of relaxed focus. Thus, their brains and nervous systems experience dysregulation. Neurofeedback trains the brain to modulate its activity level adjusting the arousal state according to individual needs thus learning self-regulation. With Neurofeedback, people can learn to control their brain states from within by increasing alpha and theta waves, which reduces their cravings, ultimately breaking the failure cycle. Neurofeedback is a clinically valid and highly research-based therapy for those struggling with addiction. When integrated into a program that combines psychotherapy and behavioral support, research from Peniston today demonstrates higher success rates and lower relapse rates than the same program without the benefit of Neurofeedback. It is a safe and accessible treatment that should be part of a therapeutic plan when an individual is addressing addiction. Submitted by Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge. Dr. Roseann CapannaHodge & Associates offers non-medication alternatives for healing mental health conditions. Connect at 203-438-4848, Info@DrRoseann. com and DrRoseann.com. See ad, page 10.

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June 2018

A new Ukrainian homebuilding startup called PassivDom uses a 3-D printing robot to produce parts for tiny houses. The machine can print the walls, roof and floor of the company’s 380-square-foot model in about eight hours. The windows, doors and self-contained plumbing, sewage and self-electrical systems are then added by a human worker. Solar energy is stored in a battery. Filtered water collects from humidity in the air. Prices start at $64,000 per house (PassivDom). M.A.DI., in Italy, produces prefabricated A-frame houses in five sizes that can be set up anywhere. The basic model is rated an energy class B, but can be upgraded with an option of adding solar panels to make the structures energyindependent. Homes made by Lifehaus blend low-cost, off-grid appeal with holistic living and luxurious details. The Lebanon company is pioneering energy-neutral dwellings made from locally sourced and recycled materials. Green home dwellers will also be able to generate electricity and grow their own food.

Lower Overhead

Green Energy Reduces Utility Costs

Cincinnati has contracted with the energy company Dynegy to purchase 100 percent renewable energy to operate most of its municipal facilities through at least 2021. The green energy will power police and fire stations, health clinics, recreation centers and most administrative buildings, including city hall. The city’s greenhouse gas emissions will be cut by more than 9 percent and its utility rates by more than $100,000 annually. The deal will bring the city closer to its goal of running on 100 percent renewable energy by 2035.

All That Glitters Sparkly Microbeads Face Ban

Scientists have called for glitter to be prohibited due to the threat it poses to wildlife. The glistening, decorative, plastic microbead powder may seem harmless, but environmental researchers report it’s a dangerous pollutant, particularly in oceans. Trisia Farrelly, Ph.D., of New Zealand’s Massey University, notes, “Their diminutive size and sparkling appearance make them appealing to animals, which will eat them.” Seven U.S. states now restrict the use and sale of products with microbeads; California was the first in 2015. The British government will ban rinse-off microbeads—plastics of less than one millimeter in length—found in exfoliating scrubs, shower gels, toothpaste and even on greeting cards. Plastics are found in a third of all fish caught in Great Britain, according to a study by Richard Thompson, Ph.D., professor of marine biology at Plymouth University. He says of shower gel with glitter particles, “That stuff is going to escape down the plughole and potentially enter the environment.”

Holistic Psychotherapy

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photo courtesy of passivdom.com

Simple Eco-Houses on the Upswing

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Quick Quarters

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global briefs

Mastering Yoga

The yoga community in Fairfield County and the Housatonic Valley has never been more vibrant! This section provides connections to studios and teachers in the area, as well as helpful editorial to support your efforts to improve your practice.

yoga briefs

International Yoga Day Events in Stratford

oin in celebrating the sun, the summer solstice, yoga and community with the Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC) in Stratford. It will hold its 4th Annual International Yoga Day weekend events on June 23 and 24. 108 Sun Salutations, led by HCC’s yoga instructors, takes place from 9 to 11am on Saturday, and is followed by a healthy, vegetarian luncheon. All levels are welcome. Participants do not have to complete all 108 sun salutations. Modifications will be demonstrated; there will be time for short meditation and contemplation. On June 24 from 9am to 3pm, HCC will celebrate 4th Annual International Yoga Day. Participants may sample yoga, pranayama and meditation classes; chant Sanskrit mantras; move energy through qigong; and learn about yoga’s sister science, Ayurveda. A healthy vegetarian luncheon will be served. Bring a yoga mat and bottle of water to any of these events. A donation of $10 per day is requested and accepted on behalf of HCC. HCC also holds gentle yoga and pranayama classes on Wednesday and Thursday at 6:30pm, and Saturday and Sunday at 9:30am.

YO 2O GA

Yoga 203 3 Wall Street,2nd Floor Norwalk, CT 06850

203-918-6757 www.yoga203.com info@yoga203.com @yoga203norwalk

FREE 2 hour parking at 20 Main Street before 6pm

To register for both of these upcoming dates, contact Kamal Pandya at 203-685-1358, or Wendy Simmons-Taylor at 203-521-0359 or HCC.Yoga.Wendy@gmail.com. For more information, visit HCCYoga.org or Facebook.com/HCCYoga9. Location: Hindu Cultural Center of CT, 96 Chapel St, Stratford. See ad, page 21.

Black Rock Welcomes New Yoga Studio

new yoga studio is opening in early June in the heart of Bridgeport’s historic Black Rock neighborhood. The studio will offer a wide range of classes to students of all skill levels. The Rock basics class will focus on the fundamentals of the postures

and their optimal alignment on Sundays at noon. All are welcome at Grit and Grace, an open mixed-level vinyasa flow class that is heated on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. LSD—or Long, Still, Deep—is a passive but challenging yin practice that targets the fascial connective soft tissues of the hips, pelvis and lower spine. The majority of work is done sitting or lying down and holding poses for a long duration of 3-7 minutes. The Allow, Soften, Surrender class is meant to restore, renew and relax the central nervous system with gentle, soothing and longheld yoga postures. Heated on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturday, Big Kahuna class is a faster-paced intermediate class with some inversions and arm balances. Buddha Groove, a fun, evening, intermediate/advanced-level vinyasa flow class accompanied by live acoustic guitar, offers

some advanced asanas but all are welcome as modifications will be given. Enrollment is limited for this class. SOB—or Stiff, Old, Broken—is a slow and meditative practice with gentle, more instructive flow, breaking down vinyasa concepts, using props for sun salutations and modification details. New students and drop-ins are welcome. The studio has mats and props that you can borrow for free, and a filtered water cooler for use with refillable bottles. One of Black Rock Yoga’s first partnerships is with the local juice bar, Replenish, which will take your favorite juice order before class and have it ready to go at the studio once your class is completed. For more information, call 203-355-9888 or visit BlackRockYogaCT.com. Location: Black Rock Yoga, 3064 Fairfield Ave, 1st Fl, Bridgeport. June 2018

What Samsara Teaches Us Altering the Subtle Cycles in Our Daily Lives

by Berta Prevosti

amsara is the never-ending cycle of life, death and re-birth. Are we here on earth to break that cycle and reach enlightenment? We dive into prayer, yoga, meditation, and an endless array of energy and spiritually awakening activities. While these are inspiring and noble endeavors, the question still remains if we are returning and not breaking the cycle to reach “pure freedom”. Life is said to be about suffering, and

that we will continue to suffer until we can clean up our karma and reach enlightenment. But we need to ask ourselves what that even means. We all have to muddle our way through our daily lives with work, bringing up children, cooking, chores and more; there isn’t much time left to concentrate on our “spiritual journey”. How are we ever going to become enlightened and find ultimate freedom? View things in life as if they were illu-

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sions, detach with compassion from all living and material possessions, meditate for hours a day, become a vegan, do yoga, and walk away from all things you desire. Sounds a little too much, no? Where do we start? The majority of us are not ready to become the next Buddha—maybe in our next life. However, it doesn’t mean we are lost either to this perpetually never-ending life. There are many places to break the cycle when we first understand that everything is a cycle. We need to identify the smaller cycles which then will ultimately change our lives. They can bring freedom from the reccurring dramas and sufferings of our everyday lives, from the too-common worries of money, illness, sadness, depression and so on. Let’s look at these smaller cycles; without recognizing them and understanding that they need to be broken first, we will get no further. These smaller cycles are prevalent in our lives and influence us more than we can imagine. Breaking the negative cycle of our thoughts is paramount. For a moment, contemplate the thoughts we have in a day, or broken down further into minute to minute. Did we think a negative thought about our day this morning when we woke up or looked in the mirror? We haven’t

Berta Prevosti, a certified Reiki master and yoga teacher, is the owner of The Jiiva Center. The center offers yoga classes, yoga teacher training, a school of Reiki, private Reiki and massage treatments, meditation classes, workshops, and retreats. Connect at JiivaCenter.com. See ad, page 20.

4th Annual HCC

even gotten started with our day, and yet we can’t get past the thoughts that may seem fleeting only because another one has taken its place. Add in thoughts about the weather, a commute or getting the children ready for school…the scenarios are endless. Be aware of thoughts and how many are negative or positive. For instance, we may have a negative thought on the way to work while stuck in traffic. We may go into autopilot, our mind reaching for the most habitual reaction, which may include some expletive. Next time this happens and you react negatively, take a breath, put on some music, and say that the situation is completely out of your control. The outcome will be the same; you will arrive at your destination but the journey will be a more positive one. Another example is when we open the front door and it’s raining, snowy, cloudy or humid; instead of thinking about what a lousy day it will be, embrace the change of seasons we have and dress appropriately. Don’t “throw” the day away. A simple practice to begin is when someone says a greeting and asks how you are, reply “great!” Even if something is going on in our lives that is bothering us, we are trying to change the negative chatter. These negative thoughts and actions should not be judged as harmful. They are normal and there so we can choose better and elevate our positive vibration to begin changing ourselves and our lives. They help us grow. Look at them as bad habits and opportunities to turn our lives around. We will feel so much better with more energy and joy by the end of a positive thinking day. It really is that simple. The concept of Samsara in Buddhism teaches that human beings have the ultimate control over themselves. If our daily lives are characterized by negative thoughts and actions, they will be dominant in our lives and we will experience suffering. If, on the other hand, we strengthen our positive and useful behavior, our daily happiness and joy will increase and become the prevailing experience. This starts the journey to accepting others and to eventual enlightenment. Only then will the cycle of Samsara be broken.

YOGA Festival 2018

saturday, June 23 9 am -11 am sunday, June 24 9 am -3 pm Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC) 96 Chapel Street, Stratford | www.HCCYoga.com

Saturday, June 23 • 9 -11 am • 108 Sun Salutations • Vegetarian Luncheon • All levels welcome. Please join us in celebrating the Sun, the Summer Solstice, Yoga, & Community! You don’t have to complete all 108 Sun Salutations.

Sunday, June 24 • 9 am - 3 pm • Sample 6 Yoga Classes • Chant Sanskrit Mantras • Practice Pranayama • Try Peaceful Meditation • Move Energy ~ QiGong • Vegetarian Luncheon • Graceful Aging ~ Ayurveda

Please bring a bottle of water and yoga mat. RSVP to hold your spot. Kamal Pandya (203) 685-1358 Wendy Simmons-Taylor (203) 521-0359 hcc.yoga.wendy@gmail.com $10 Donation per day accepted on behalf of HCC

Registered Tax-Exempt Non-Profit Religious & Cultural Organization

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. June 2018

OolaLife

by Kelly Martinsen

ola (originating from the word “oo-la-la”) is a lifestyle based on the international bestselling book, Oola: Find Balance in an Unbalanced World.

Oo-la (noun): That state of awesomeness. It is when your life is balanced and growing in the seven key areas of life—“the 7 F’s of Oola”—fitness, finance, family, field (career), faith, friends and fun. Have you seen the bus of dreams— a 1970 Volkswagen surf bus covered in 22

stickers where people have written their dreams? The bus is now 19 sticker layers deep and traveling around the country with two men, fondly known as the OolaGuys, “Dr. Dave” Braun and “Dr. Troy” Amdahl, both doctors of chiropractic. They are on a mission to change the world with a word (#Oola) by collecting one-million dreams in the form of handwritten stickers on the side of a vintage bus. The reason? Because they believe that the way people can achieve their dreams is to first find balance within the seven key areas of life they refer to as the 7 F’s. The OolaGuys operate on the principle that all of us are “designed for greatness,” and as such, they have made it their mission to help people achieve

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balance in these seven areas so that they can attain an OolaLife. The OolaGuys are co-authors of the international bestselling Oola book series that started with Oola: Find Balance in an Unbalanced World. Dr. Dave (the OolaSeeker) and Dr. Troy (the OolaGuru) are renowned experts in teaching a proper work-life balance and are committed to changing the world with their simple yet life-changing message. These gentlemen began this journey in 1997 when Dr. Troy was working at his clinic in Las Vegas, Nevada. The two of them, along with some friends, met at a hotel to sit around and plan the areas of their life. For each area (each F), they asked, “Where are you, where do you want to go, and how do you want to get there?” The focus is on balance between these seven areas of your life. Once you lose balance—yup, you guessed it—you lose Oola. But not everyone is unbalanced; not everyone is an OolaSeeker. There are some that are OolaGurus. Back in 1997, Dr. Troy seemed to have it all together while Dr. Dave found himself at his lowest point. He had a failed marriage and was living in a low rent motel, having lost most of his wealth. Dr. Dave reached out to Dr. Troy to see how two men who started out with the same ideas and ideals found themselves at such opposite ends of Oola. It didn’t take long for Dr. Dave to realize that what Dr. Troy, the OolaGuru, was sharing with him and their friends—balance and growth in the 7 F’s—at this 1997 get-together was a profound concept that could help the masses. OolaLife is what is attained when a person focuses on and puts forth the effort to have a balanced life, maybe even an inspired one. The OolaGuys believe that “we are all designed by God for greatness and purpose,” and that Oola is just discovering that purpose and utilizing these seven areas as a guide. While no “F” is more important than another, it is worth emphasizing the importance of family, field and finance, “given that 55 percent of marriages end in divorce, 53 percent of Americans hate their jobs, and 33 percent of the U.S. population has debt,” says Dr. Dave. “That means many of us are spending 12 hours a day

at a job doing what we hate and coming home to an unhappy household. That has to change. That is not inspired living.” The men still say that all areas are equally important and that once one outof-balance area is identified and focused on, the other areas will be helped inadvertently. For instance, if you start with finance and pull yourself out of debt, you will find an improvement in your relationship with your significant other because you will be under less pressure. Or, if you focus on family and improve your relationships, you discover that family members can help you figure out how to balance other areas of your life, including rediscovering a cherished dream. Many of the people the OolaGuys meet on the road tell them, “I haven’t had a dream in 30 years.” It’s true that these “dreamless folks” have lost Oola, but it’s never too late to find it. Visit OolaLife.com and try their free OolaLife tools to discover where you stand in each area. Are you an OolaGuru in the areas of finance and field but lacking in family and faith? Then those are the areas

you do?” That is the start. Ask yourself this question, take the online quiz to determine your balance, and then begin the process of attaining an OolaLife.

“Dr. Troy” Amdahl and “Dr. Dave” Braun you need to pay more attention to. Are fitness and fun areas that are no longer strong as you age and become increasingly busy? Then take advice from the OolaGuys and make time for both as they will power you through the aging process. In the end when it comes to dreams, the guys ask the question: “If you knew it would be a raging success, what would

Oola is a lifestyle brand with a book series (HCI Books); a tour; a motivational event called OolaPalooza; a partnership with Young Living where they have developed Oola oils; and most recently, their attempt to share and give back with their own line of tea, which supports their newest mission to feed one-million people (every bag of tea sold buys a meal for a child in need). For more information, visit OolaLife.com. To order Oola: Find Balance in an Unbalanced World, visit amzn.to/2EC5Pfq; and to order Oola for Women, visit amzn. to/2qobnWB. Kelly Martinsen is publisher of Natural Awakenings Long Island and author of A Year of Inspired Living (HCI Books), which is available at AYearOfInspiredLiving.com and Amazon.com.

June 2018

therapy spotlight

The Wisdom of the Subconscious

Hypnosis Changes Habits for Good by Thea Litsios

ur subconscious minds are more powerful than we think. Most people have an impression of hypnotism that comes from watching stage shows or how it is portrayed on television and in movies. In fact, we can’t be hypnotized against our will, nor can we do anything we don’t wish to do while hypnotized. That being said, our subconscious mind is more powerful than most people realize. When we are seeking change in our lives, hypnotism can sometimes be an ideal modality to help us facilitate that change. We have all heard the phrase, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks,” but

the medical and scientific community has begun to change this long-standing belief about the ability of the brain as we get older. Until a few decades ago, it was believed that our brains did not change after childhood, that it was hardwired and fixed by the time we were adults. Recent research has shown that, in fact, our brains do have the capacity to change, and we also have the ability to continue to learn until the end of our lives. This ability of our brains to change and adapt is called neuroplasticity. What can this mean for those of us trying to create positive change in our

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lives? It can mean a lot. Take, for instance, weight loss. Losing weight has become a national pastime. It seems there is a new book about the latest diet published each week. Despite all this, many of us have a hard time changing the way we eat and adopting different patterns of eating. The conventional belief is that all we need is more willpower. We start the new diet with enthusiasm and hope, but soon find ourselves back to our old habits and more discouraged than ever. What if willpower is not actually the key to creating positive change in our lives? What if we could harness the power of our subconscious mind to help facilitate the creation of different eating habits? It is possible through hypnosis. All habits were once new behavior, but it was the repetition of that thought and the behavior connected to it that formed a habit. When a thought and action are repeated, a neural pathway is created in our brain. The more that behavior is repeated, the stronger that neural pathway becomes; the habit is formed until it becomes, “just who we are and what we do.” Using hypnotism to help create new habits is not a quick fix. It took some time and repetition to create the habit in the first place so it will take some time to replace it. Just knowing that change is possible if we use the potential of our own mind is empowering. Changing for the better is no longer just about more “willpower”; it is about tapping into the brain’s own ability to change through the subconscious mind and the power of repetition. Knowing that habits long ingrained in our brains can be changed opens up a world of new possibilities. This is not just with weight loss but with smoking cessation, overcoming a fear of public speaking, and improving sports performance, just to name a few. Tapping into the power of our subconscious minds and creating new habits can allow us to recreate our lives the way we want them to be. Thea Litsios is a certified consulting hypnotist, teacher of Active Dreaming and founder of Healing Tree Wisdom, LLC. Connect at 203-693-1493 and HealingTreeWisdom. com. See ad, page 15.

practitioner profiles

Universal Intelligence, LLC Redding • 203-451-3383 Support@UniversalIntelligence.info UniversalIntelligence.info

Practice summary and services offered: My name is Althea, which means healer. I work collaboratively with clients to release them from where they are “stuck” to where they would like to be by using the modalities of hypnosis, coaching, emotional freedom techniques and others in a safe, tranquil environment. What drew you to coaching/counseling as a profession? Discovering the true, authentic person inside each of us. Many people become stuck and dissatisfied with their present situations. Together, we are able to explore their subconscious mind through hypnosis and bring about the change they want. What training and/or certifications do you have? I am a Connecticut-registered consulting hypnotist, certified relationship coach, certified bereavement coach, professional life coach, veterans’ stress project coach, Emotional Freedom practitioner, Reiki practitioner and mental fitness coach. What should a client expect from a session or series of sessions with you? To release them from unwanted thoughts and behaviors—and achieve their desired goals—by utilizing the subconscious mind, which has the answers to recognize and achieve what you want and need. For example, healing relationships, losing weight, removing fears, releasing physical and emotional pain, stress reduction, self-esteem, and dealing with a blockage or imbalance. Regressions are also very revealing and enlightening. What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? The mind, body and spirit are powerfully aligned to guide and heal our wounds. By becoming aware of our essence—of who we really are, not who we think we are—we are able to overcome obstacles that limit our growth. We explore and listen to our bodies and intuitions with the powerful tools we already have to achieve where we want to be as our subconscious will tell us. I achieve extraordinary outcomes, often after only a short period, for many who have for years dealt with frustrations, disappointments and not sustainable results.

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 and 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.

June 2018

SOUL SYNERGY WELLNESS Formerly 7e Fit Spa

A Slice of SEDONA in Stamford, CT

Infrared Sauna with Color Therapy Non-invasive Body Contouring: Cavi-Lipo, Torc, VibraFit Transformative treatments to support your lifelong physical, O ygen mental, Facials, Anti aging, and Microdermabrasion, emotional spiritual health. Myoli Massage Therapy • e e ology Aromatherapy aindrop Techni ue motional elease with ssential Oils sychic Medium • Clairvoyant • Tarot • Intuitive Reiki • Angelic and endulum eadings Crystal Healing • Life Coach • Intuitive eadings Meditation • Sound Therapy • Teeth Whitening

practitioner profiles

Healing Tree Wisdom Thea Litsios, CHy Offices in Stratford and Norwalk 203-693-1493 Thea@HealingTreeWisdom.com HealingTreeWisdom.com

Practice summary and services offered: At Healing Tree Wisdom, I use hypnotism and Active Dream Work to help you create the life you desire from the inside out. Help with weight loss, stress reduction, smoking cessation, fears and much more. I also offer Past Life Review, which can be informative, powerful and healing.

Every Tuesday in June from 6:45 - 8:30 pm GROUP

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

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

What first drew you to health and wellness as a profession? After many years in the profession of photography, I was ready for a change and my interest in dreams, personal growth and healing—plus my passion for helping others—led me to this work. How long have you been practicing? I have been a teacher of Active Dream Work for 10 years and a Certified Consulting Hypnotist for two years. What training and/or certifications do you have? I am a Certified Consulting Hypnotist and a teacher of Active Dream Work as taught by Robert Moss, an author and teacher. What is your particular specialty or niche? I am particularly interested in Past Life Review. This is a powerful way to create healing and change in your life through avenues that we, in Western society, often disregard. What should a client expect from session(s) with you? Hypnotism is a gentle, yet powerful way to create lasting change in one’s life. Unlike how hypnotism is portrayed in movies and TV, the client is never “unconscious” or out of control. Your input helps create the perfect session for you. You will have a recording from each hypnotic session which you can use as often as it is useful for you. What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about your work? All the experience over my lifetime has brought me to the point of doing work that I am very passionate about. Helping people live a life that they desire gives me great joy. I love teaching, and will be offering classes in Self-Hypnotism, Tools for Enhancing Creativity and Active Dream Work. I will also be offering a monthly Dream group. Please send me an email if you would like to be informed of these upcoming events.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Shifting Negative Belief Patterns Simple Strategies Make Lasting Change by Michael Rosenbaum

o understand how we can make critical behavior changes ourselves, we should understand the different parts of the mind and how to work with them. The mind has been identified as having four major parts: conscious mind, subconscious, unconscious and superconscious. The first is the logical and rational mind, while the latter three—or inner mind—are where all behaviors (negative and positive), habits and emotional triggers are stored.

There are several “laws” that apply.

We can’t change the inner mind with the conscious mind. That’s because it is where all our emotions are. Using logic with an emotional issue rarely works. Instead, we have to undergo an innermind process to effectively change those habits, beliefs and negative emotional reactions. The inner mind defaults to the strongest impression, whether it is “good” or “bad”. This is apparent on those occasions when we walk into a room, something happens, and we suddenly feel annoyed, afraid or even sad. Try as our conscious mind may want to, it can’t shake that feeling. We have been “triggered”; our inner mind is defaulting to an old impression that may have been created when we were a child, or even in another lifetime. Phobias and most disagreements with family, spouses and

friends are really triggers for old, innermind impressions. How do we make an inner mind change? There are some simple things we can do that are effective in helping our inner mind release negative reactions and reinforce positive ones. Energy follows thought. Whatever we focus or ruminate on gets stronger. If we are negatively triggered, we should acknowledge it as a trigger and then focus our attention on something we like for at least 15 minutes; that should be enough

time for the negative impulse to move on. We should be mindful of what we tell ourselves all day long as those thoughts become the basis for how we feel overall. A good practice at the end of the day is to write down three specific things we are grateful for or that went well during the day. This begins to orient our brain to see the glass as half full. By doing so, we begin to focus on what is working instead of what is not. Making small changes creates longlasting changes. To establish a change, take a 30-day challenge—it takes 30 days to establish a new habit—by asking how something can be done even only a few percentage points better. Make it something really simple that is accomplishable. Every 30 days, look to make another small change. After six months, look back and things will be noticeably different. Our mind can change at any age. We are not stuck with what we have. The key is to find ways to make inner mind changes and reprogram ourselves. Sometimes we need the help of others to shift strong negative patterns. Finding practitioners that specialize in working with the inner mind can help. Michael Rosenbaum, ACHT, MP, has been practicing mind/body medicine, hypnotherapy and regression therapy for over 18 years. He has offices in Danbury, CT, and Katonah and Mt. Kisco, NY. Connect at 914-218-9000, 914-589-3601 or AlternativeChoices.org.

Lose Weight w ith Hypnosis O ur V irtua l Ga stric B a nd p ro g ra m is th e p ro v en, na tura l, rela x ing , a nd enj o y a b le w a y to lo se w eig h t!

Re G suet lts

Thou g ht Fiel d Therap yTM and Hyp nos is are the k eys to ou r s u c c es s f u l s ol u tion to l os e w eig ht w ithou t dep riv ation or dang erou s s u rg ery! Diane Bahr-Groth CHy, TFTdx

N o d ieting , p ills o r sp ec ia l fo o d s! Mind-Body Transformation Hypnosis Center

Lipo-Light Body Sculpting • Stress • Smoking • Sleep • Fear

1177 High Ridge Road, Stamford, CT Mindbodytransformation.com 203-595-0110

June 2018

SUPPORTING RECOVERY

It Takes a Community by Orna Rawls and Ariana Rawls Fine

upport for those facing addiction can come in many forms, whether it is someone walking with them to a group meeting, prescribing medication, offering spiritual support or focusing on trauma work in therapy. No matter what form the addictive behavior may be, it often takes the proverbial village to show up and support the person desiring to change. These days, there are many options urging people toward healing, which can raise

some questions. What are the various roles of coaches, therapists, spiritual healers and others who may be involved? Whether a person is in crisis can determine those they should turn to on an immediate basis, explains Elizabeth Jorgensen, LPC, CADC, a therapist and the director of Ridgefield-based Insight Counseling (InsightCounselingLLC.com). Since they often see the same people to provide a circle of care, spiritual healers,

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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coaches, wellness providers and others defer to licensed practitioners when a crisis is happening. This is, in part, due to the experience gained with a high number of supervised clinical hours—Jorgensen did over 3,000 supervised work hours in the field after her master’s—and having a governing board to ensure continued training and background checks. A licensed clinical psychologist, such as Insight Counseling’s Dr. Mary Murphy, PhD, can also perform standard testing as well as basic genetic testing to investigate the possible presence of bipolar, borderline personality or psychotic disorders. She can evaluate the need for medications. Assessing the congruence of mental health issues is a key component in the addiction recovery process, says Margo Friedman, LPC, LADC, a psychotherapist, and licensed alcohol and drug counselor with a private practice in Westport. Some addictive behaviors originate as selfmedicating coping mechanisms due to an unidentified co-occurring disorder. Joe Benner, MS, LADC, implements a full-circle approach in his licensed substance abuse counseling practice with CT Wellness (CTCounselors.com) in Sandy Hook. “I had volunteered in detox and 28day centers but was concerned with why the patients kept coming back. It became obvious that there were gaps between getting sober and staying sober,” he states. Benner and Daniel Mosner, BS, a certified addictions counselor at CT Wellness, tailor their client’s recovery and support, bringing in holistic care strategies, taking on the role of counselor and life coach. For clients with severe mental illness and

underlying issues, this could mean doing interventions on behalf of patients with departments of mental health, emergency rooms or psychiatric units. “It goes beyond sitting in therapy in an office,” Benner explains. “They are creating a ‘new’ reality as they face their addiction. We delve into who the person needs to be in their lives, what has kept them from surviving in the past, their fear of change and other aspects that can hold them back from long-term recovery.” When clients struggle with gaining assistance, financial stability, vocational training and life skills, coaches can go with them in the community to provide the support they need to maintain their sobriety. Benner points out that licensed clinicians, on the other hand, are usually bound by insurance and other constraints to see their clients in their offices. Clinicians can work on underlying mental issues, life adjustments and solutions that can be implemented, and inter- and intra-personal relationship understandings. Coaches can act as the emotional, humanistic, logistical support bridge to individuals’ lives in the community. Elizabeth Modugno, LCSW, LADC, a licensed clinical social worker and addiction counselor with a private practice in Westport, and the clinical director at Clearpoint (ClearpointRecovery.com), agrees that coaches, 12-step AA sponsors, spiritual healers and others can offer the “circle of help” needed, especially in early recovery. She does caution, however, the need to research and seek those with specific training and experience with addiction. Since there is an epidemic of addiction sweeping the country, there may be some seeking to capitalize on that for personal monetary gain without having the proper training. Comprehensive programs that are qualified and look at underlying mental symptoms and pathologies can offer wider family support as well. In her work at Clearpoint, an alcohol and drug addiction treatment center, Modugno incorporates therapeutic methods, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness and eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR). In addition to intensive outpatient programs, sober living, interventions and family support, the

center offers acupuncture, guided imagery, spiritual care, therapeutic massage and yoga to provide clients with de-stressing, self-reflection and healthier coping tools. Denise Lamoureux, a spiritual healer at Clearpoint, provides more of that full-circle care with energy healing, Reiki, Theta Healing and Ignite Your Spirit therapy to guide clients in creating new, positive patterns and beliefs. The wraparound services should also include working with the client’s family, says Friedman. Treating the family—the client’s significant other, children and parents—enables them to learn how they can most appropriately help with recovery and communicate their needs to each other. In addition to therapy, utilizing the knowledge and skills of coaches, AL-ANON support groups, spiritual advisors and holistic practitioners may help the whole family on their road to healing. Insight Counseling incorporates healing modalities into their support services; Rosa Esposito, a yoga teacher, offers yoga, meditation, aromatherapy and healing classes for healers and

caregivers as well as clients. “For addiction, or life in general, we end up banging our heads on the ‘brick wall’ with the same behaviors. If we, as practitioners, are all not working in tandem, it is hard to be effective and get our clients appropriate care,” says Jorgensen. “We need to do whatever it takes to implement change, support it and ‘plug the gaps’, whether it is by a coach, a spiritual healer, a therapist or a peer supporter. Our clients need to learn how to live life anew.” Orna Rawls, LMFT, a licensed marriage and family therapist, has been practicing psychotherapy for over 40 years. In addition to traditional training, she applies various effective modalities in her practice, including NLP, EFT, CBT and EMDR, to name a few. Connect at 203-375-6457. Ariana Rawls Fine is the editor of Natural Awakenings Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley, CT and New Haven/Middlesex Counties, CT. She resides in Stratford with her family.

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June 2018

Healthy and Empowered Recovery Holistic Approaches for Individual Paths

by Joy Herbst

any women are seeking paths to holistic health and sobriety. Every person needs to find their own unique mix when creating any wellness plan, whether that is seeking and maintaining sobriety, weight loss, or implementing elemental self-care practices of exercise and meditation. To achieve the desired success, we must utilize channels

that draw from a wholistic perspective. There are many sources of inspiration and wellness advice, which is hugely beneficial because what one woman seeks and finds useful may not be for the woman standing next to her. Many people begin their recovery journey with the well-known and classic Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), but searches

Metaphysical Shop & Healing Space

on Google reveal newer groups such as Women for Sobriety and Yoga of Recovery, offering different options and approaches to holistic recovery. Ayurveda teaches us that individuation is a necessary strength, while functional nutrition and integrative medicine school us in how to further support ourselves through nutrition and stress reduction and mindfulness techniques. It’s true, the toolbox is overflowing with the many supportive measures that can be used. For many, these include diet, meditation, replenishing supplements, amino acids and herbs, spiritual practices, yoga/ asana, mindful movement and dance, and time spent honoring nature. Although any individual’s rituals and regularity may not be “perfect”, what matters is an individual’s devotion to the practices that hold true health on the rainbow spectrum of vitality. Here are some suggestions for those seeking supports on their recovery path. Sangha – This Sanskrit word means a devoted community of like-minded seekers. Whether it is a 12-Step or Women for Sobriety meeting, your meditation club, a hiking group, or your Moon Circle sisters, these all serve us, as we serve the group. We may find companionship, personal meaning, empathy, strength and support in these groups. This has never been more critical, as we live in a time where we all too often hide behind devices or desks for fear of judgment and self-comparison. Find your tribe and let your innate beauty shine. Sadhana – Here’s another Sanskrit term for you. Yogi Bhajan says, “Sadhana

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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is a personal process in which you bring out your best.” In other words, it is your daily spiritual practice. Obviously, this does not provide a specific outline for practice, but instead resonates with the idea of forming your own unique rainbow of meaning. For example, you may find great spiritual significance through your yoga and meditation practice, religious observances, pranayama, journaling, and/or prayer, or something else entirely. Sustenance – The best, whole foods are a variety that are rich in nourishing proteins, fats and nutrients, and minimally processed and sustainably sourced. Keep it simple, feed yourself in the manner that your divine being requests. Sun – Get some sun, fresh air and lots of forest bathing. Studies show that just 90 minutes spent walking in nature decreases rumination, a recurrent factor known in depression. Another study concluded that, “forest environments promote lower concentrations of cortisol, lower pulse rate, lower blood pressure, greater parasympathetic nerve activity, and lower sympathetic nerve activity than do city environments.” Supplement – When needed. Supplementation may not be needed as a general rule of thumb, but it is a fact that many foods grown today provide drastically less calcium, iron, and Vitamins A and C than they did 50 years ago due to modern industrial farming practices. We are subjected daily to many toxins that our bodies struggle to contend with and remove. While we may do the best we can to reduce our toxic loads through living more mindfully, it is likely we can all benefit from supplements that help boost immunity and offset inflammation. These include such things as omega 3s, a broad spectrum probiotic featuring 20 million of more CFU, and a great daily multivitamin. It’s amazing what this power trio can do for those who struggle with depression, anxiety, pain and more. Joy Herbst RN, MSN, APRN is a holistic nurse practitioner, empowered recovery guide, dancer, Ayurveda counselor and mother of 2 young boys. She works privately with those who struggle with depression, anxiety and substance use disorder, providing integrative mental health care and recovery support. Joy also offers weekly Yoga of Recovery classes and Women for Sobriety meetings. She celebrates a grateful life of empowered sobriety since 2013. Connect at JoyHerbst.com.

NATIONAL RECOVERY RESOURCES Support for those with addictions: AA.org A Buddhist Path to Recovering from Addiction: Refuge Recovery: RefugeRecovery.org Local meetings take place in Fairfield, Monroe, Redding and Westport Support for the families/friends of those with alcohol addiction: AL-ANON Family Groups: Al-Anon.org Support for the families/friends of those with narcotics addictions, including groups for teens in home affected by drug addiction: Nar-Anon.org Womens Behavioral Health: Womensconsortium.org Women for Sobriety: WomenforSobriety.org Yogic retreats, workshops and trainings supporting those in recovery: Yoga of Recovery: YogaofRecovery.com

LOCAL RECOVERY RESOURCES Clearpoint Recovery • Westport 203-293-1723 • ClearpointRecovery.com Connecticut Community for Addiction Recovery (CCAR) Hartford • 866-205-9770 • CCAR.us CCAR has three Recovery Community Centers (RCCs) located in Connecticut: Hartford, Bridgeport and Windham Each RCC offers a variety of recovery support services: All-Recovery Meetings (ARM); Recovery Training Series; Family Support Groups; Recovery Coaching; Recovery Social Events; Telephone Recovery Support. The Bridgeport RCC 9 Cannon St, Courtyard Rear Bridgeport • 203-332-3303 CT Al-Anon/Alateen Groups • CTAlanon.org CT Wellness • Sandy Hook • 203-270-9888 CTCounselors.com Insight Counseling, LLC • Ridgefield • 203-431-9726 InsightCounseling.com The Recovery Village • Fairfield • 888-262-9745 TheRecoveryVillage.com

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Ann C. Reeves, PsyD, Licensed Psychologist

practitioner profiles

Antoinette Lampert/ ®The Joy of Avatar

3 Hollyhock Ln, Wilton 203-451-6208 • ACReeves@optonline.net

New Canaan 203-247-9335 • Lamperta111@gmail.com TheAvatarCourse.com • InternationalAvatarCourse.com

Practice summary and services offered: I provide personal guidance and consultation to those who feel they have lost their way, perhaps undergoing undue anxiety, depression, significant life transitions, parenting questions, chronic pain or other life challenges.

nce, and peace?

Practice summary and services offered: I am an Avatar Master and teach the Avatar Course. It is a set of foundational tools and techniques that enables people to change repeated patterns and transform the way they live. It can transform your view and heighten your awareness of self, others and the world.

Antoinette Lampert, Avatar® Master 203-247-9335 What drew you to health and wellness as a profession? I have always been interested and explored alternative remedies, Lamperta111@gmail.com

self-help avenues and spirituality. I came to a point in my life where felt I had a good life, family, marriage and business…but I er, author ofI the Avatar® materials did not feel complete. Through life circumstances, I became aware eserved. of the power of foods, natural remedies, spirituality, awakening and awareness. I found the Avatar Course and took the two-day ReSurfacing weekend. I knew I had to complete the entire course and found a part of myself that I did not know existed. What training and certifications do you have? I have been a realtor and worked with people and families for over 20 years. I now have an Avatar Master license and I have been delivering the course for five years, along with other masters from around the world. What is your particular specialty or niche? I enjoy working with people, connecting and supporting them in their evolvement to higher awareness. I enjoy seeing their faces light up when they experience a moment of insight or realization that they feel at the core of their essential self. What should a client expect from a session or a series of sessions with you? There are many options you can choose from. You will explore the power of your attention, the relationship between your beliefs and your reality, your own consciousness and the blueprint by which you live your life, and so much more. What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about your work? The techniques and tools learned on the Avatar Course with my guidance and support are all about you learning about you as you gain clarity, energy, purpose and peace of mind. It is transformational, heartfelt, pure, and insightful. Changing perspective, releasing judgments and opening the heart to who we truly are can change your life. 32

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

What drew you to health and wellness as a profession? My fascination with the clinical stories in my big brother’s college psychology textbook led to wanting to learn more about human behavior and to marvel at people’s ability to overcome their struggles with living. How long have you been in practice? For 38 years, I’ve done psychological consultation, assessment and psychotherapy with children and adults, initially working as a school psychologist. Now I have 26 years as a licensed psychologist in private practice. What training and/or certifications do you have? A doctorate in psychology from NYU (PsyD); certification in applied positive psychology (CAPP); training in mindfulnessbased stress reduction, OASIS in the Overwhelm, EMDR and the Myers-Briggs Type Inventory; and Celtic shamanism. Volunteer work as a hospital chaplain, 26 years in prison ministry; and extensive work in AIDS/HIV. What is your particular specialty or niche? Positive psychology strategies are a transformative route to creating change. They encourage positivity, engagement with the world, relationships, a meaningful life, feelings of accomplishment and wellness. I also use mindfulness-based stress reduction, meditation, visualization, guided imagery and EMDR. What should a client expect from a session or series of sessions with you? The therapeutic process is a highly personal journey and a sacred trust between us to discover your best self. Within a warm and comfortable environment, I will listen to you; together, we will identify your strengths. Then, with an emphasis on “what’s right” as we identify “what’s wrong”, we will tease apart the particulars of your difficulty. I will teach you strategies that will help you thrive even in the midst of life’s challenges. What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about your work? I value the role of intuition, experience, spirituality, creativity, humor, being in nature and the body’s wisdom as people search for their own “one wild and precious life” as Mary Oliver said.

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Being Centered: Psychological Services, PLLC Anna Huff, PhD Teresa Reyes Castillo, PhD 111 Reef Rd, Fairfield 203-614-1089 Info@Being-Centered.com Being-Centered.com

How long have you been practicing? Dr. Huff began her clinical work in 2011 and graduated with a PhD in 2015. Dr. Reyes Castillo began her clinical work in 2012 and graduated with a PhD in 2016. What training and/or certifications do you have? We both have PhDs in Clinical Forensic Psychology. Dr. Huff also has a concentration in Victimology and an MA in Organizational Behavior.

Practice summary and services offered: Being Centered offers psychology for the soul, through individual therapy, couple’s therapy and therapy for relationships. Our work focuses on soul alignment and the journey of the soul(s).

What is your particular specialty or niche? We specialize in relationships with the soul, whether it is your relationship with yourself or your relationship with another. We use psychology principles and energy-based meditations in our work.

What first drew you to health and wellness as a profession? We were drawn to the original principles of psychology, and we have developed an approach that transforms those principles to meet modern day needs, using a soul-based approach. Now we are trying to transform it to accommodate the movement of today with a forward focus.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about your work? Society is expanding into a new dawn that expands beyond the individual and embraces the divine relationship we have with one another, our collective existence. Being Centered’s work contributes to this movement.

What should a client expect from session(s) with you? A safe and transformative space for rapid growth and healing! Our sessions are usually 45 minutes and each session includes an energy-based meditation.

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practitioner profiles

Coaching Connections, LLC

Milford • 203-530-5810 Alexa.Ferrucci@gmail.com Linkedin.com/in/Alexa-Ferrucci-MBA-3a322820 Practice summary and services offered: I coach executives and corporations that want to achieve long- and short-term goals, whether in the health care space or other disciplines. I enjoy coaching them to, “color outside the lines,” and to help them realize their potential. What drew you to health and wellness as a profession? A lifelong quest for finding solutions to today’s challenges, especially in the healthcare arena. I use coaching techniques and strategies to navigate and integrate healthcare practices for personal and organizational enrichment. How long have you been in practice? Twenty years in the coaching space in the formal tradition, but it has really been a lifetime of learning and coaching for me, and learning how to impart those skills to other individuals. Like many other people, I started with my own learning and want to share my experiences and strategies for healthier living. Coaching provides that structure, continuity and, ultimately, joy. What training and/or certifications do you have? I hold executive/managerial/corporate coaching certification from Coach U, a coaching certification from Corporate Coach U and an MBA from George Washington University. What is your particular specialty or niche? I specialize in helping companies and individuals in organizational, managerial and executive coaching. I have trained over 5,000 physicians, sales representatives and managers. I write training manuals, original content and curriculum for organizations that utilize coaching techniques and strategies to build leaders and strong management teams. I help coach boards of directors as well as assist organizations in identifying and cultivating the ideal board member. What should a client expect from a session or series of sessions with you? My services are performed on the phone, via email and in person (groups or individually). My first session is complimentary. You can expect me to listen and ask probing questions, be present with you, make requests, and provide perspectives and honesty. What comes from coaching is subjective, but many clients discover positive patterns and joy, and realize goals. What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about your work? I am committed to you having a positive coaching experience through an atmosphere of openness, honesty and trust. 34

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

Joy Herbst, RN, APRN, MSN, CPC, CYT 500

Holistic Nurse Practitioner 85 Mill Plain Rd, in Barefoot Living Arts, Fairfield 203-640-0530 • Joy@JoyHerbst.com • JoyHerbst.com Practice summary and services offered: Integrative mental health care and sober support. What first drew you to health and wellness as a profession? I knew at a young age that I wanted to help people feel better, and as a child thought I might become a psychologist someday. My passion in healthcare took me into women’s health, as a labor and delivery and birth center registered nurse. I became an advanced practice nurse so I could greater serve women in need. My own journey in mental health and alcohol abuse started quite young and my experience of becoming sober, stopping antidepressants after years of resistant depression and anxiety, and navigating both holistically has led me to help other women do the same. How long have you been practicing? I became a RN in 2002, and an advanced practice nurse/nurse practitioner in 2008. What training and/or certifications do you have? I am a registered nurse and a certified family nurse practitioner/APRN. I completed my first yoga teacher training in 2010 and have completed additional trainings since. I have studied Ayurveda lifestyle counseling, Heart Based Meditation and mental health nutrition coaching; I am a certified professional coach through Fowler International Academy, and my functional medicine training is ongoing through Kresser ADAPT Academy and Functional Medicine University. What is your particular specialty or niche? I work with women who are struggling with mental health and/or problem drinking. What should a client expect from session(s) with you? When a woman schedules an initial appointment, they are sent a comprehensive intake questionnaire to get a focused view of their overall health. Mental health and recovery must be addressed very holistically, and patients can expect a balance of compassionate and honest talk, coaching, and a protocol that is co-created that may include recommendations in nutrition, nutrient supplementation, stress management and more. The subsequent sessions serve to support the client with supportive and realistic goal setting and celebrations of steps toward their goal(s). Lab testing may be ordered if indicated. What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about your work? Everyone is recovering from something, and no, your brain is not broken. You can impact your mental health and recover! I know explicitly how emotional stress as a working mother can lead to self-medicating with alcohol and food, and therefore lead to illness and dis-ease. I am passionate about empowering my patients with co-created wellness plans that guide and reconnect them to their inner healer. You’re not alone.

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Holistic Psychotherapy

Sherry Minniti D’Elia, LCSW, Founder 30 Old Kings Highway South, Darien 203-655-4854 SherryMDElia@gmail.com HolisticPsychotherapyCT.com Practice summary and services offered: Holistic Psychotherapy offers a combination of traditional and holistic healing methods. We provide individual, family and couples therapy to children, adolescents and adults. What first drew you to this profession? I knew I wanted to be a therapist since I was 13. I would say it is a calling. I believe we are all meant to live in joy, and spread light and love in our own unique ways. I was so excited last year when I brought on fellow therapist Mary Frank to my practice to aid in growing this endeavor. How long have you been in practice? Having practiced for almost 30 years, I am continually learning more and evolving. I love what I do every day. It is wonderful to witness Mary express the same love I have for helping people to heal.

What training and certifications do you have? I am a licensed clinical social worker and a certified flower essence practitioner with a wealth of advanced training through the years. Currently, I am in the process of becoming certified in The Emotion Code and The Body Code. Mary is a licensed professional counselor who has been practicing for five years following a seasoned career as a teacher in Fairfield and Westchester Counties. What is your particular specialty or niche? Our specialty is that we help people to heal at the root of their problem. We believe it is of utmost importance to align the body, mind and spirit for optimal mental and physical health. What should a client expect from a session or series of sessions with you? We help clients to develop a sense of well-being as they come to understand how they relate to their environment and learn tools so that they can break negative patterns and release trapped emotions in their body. What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about your work? Our belief is that people have a natural tendency to heal; healing begins to take place by establishing a trusting therapeutic relationship and learning to trust and believe in oneself. Call today for a free phone consultation.

Personal Development

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.

203-856-9566 www.203TLC.com

25+ Years Experience Energy Healing, Meditation, Tarot Private sessions, Workshops, Events In-person or by phone 203-856-9566 www.bethleas.com

Energy Healing Soul Healing Journey, LLC Eilis Philpott Fairfield 203-767-5954 Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com SoulHealingJourney.com

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

Transformative Healing

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

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

June 2018

What is one thing I would do differently?

Pillow Self-Talk Three Questions to Ponder Before Sleeping by Krista O’Reilly Davi-Digui

sking ourself three purposeful questions before retiring each night can help us rest content knowing that although we may not have lived our day perfectly, we did live it well.

What are three things I am grateful for?

It’s possible to live with eyes and heart wide open to the amazing beauty of each day, to receive it as a gift, rather than a guarantee. By looking, we can find gifts even amid uncertainty, struggle, pain or loss. In those times when we find ourselves fighting for gratitude, know that the grace found in thankfulness for even tiny blessings sustains us and builds

resilience to walk through the storm and emerge intact. Reading One Thousand Gifts, by Ann Voskamp, or A Simple Act of Gratitude, by John Kralik, may help inspire us to get started. With practice, expressing gratitude will come easily, like breathing or laughing with children.

What are two things I did well today?

Speaking words of life about ourselves, noticing what we do well and where we shine, may meet internal resistance. It seems second nature, especially for women, to see our own struggles or shortcomings, but not our beauty or all the ways we show up to serve others and use our strengths.

Some nights we may find that given the chance, we wouldn’t have done one thing differently that day. More often we can identify something: a word spoken in impatience, spending too much time on the phone, being distracted from what’s important to us, procrastinating out of fear, or even forgetting to properly nourish ourselves. Instead of criticizing, the goal is to notice how we could better live fully aligned to our bigger goals and established values. Moment by moment, we can choose a growth mindset. We can learn to be as gentle with ourselves, as compassionate and forgiving, as we are with our children or spouse. We become aware that we get to choose who and how we want to be and that tomorrow is a new gift, a brand-new opportunity to more fully be our best self. Asking and answering these three purposeful questions may take five to 20 minutes. If we’re tempted to rush through it, remember that the resulting clarity and peace is worth the time invested. Krista O’Reilly Davi-Digui is a holistic nutrition and joyful living educator. She writes at ALifeInProgress.ca, from which this was adapted.

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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Deepening the roots of self-awareness and self-compassion that permit us to accept that we are good enough enables us to step out in calm confidence.

inspiration

Avoiding Toxic Beauty Overload

by Michele Maestri-Murphy

eople are becoming more aware of toxic overload and how taxing it is on our systems. Daily toxins cause fatigue, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, skin irritations and even terrible autoimmune responses. But what is the answer? Often the first step to purification is a physical cleanse or detox. Regimens consist of routines that eliminate sugar, flour and grains, alcohol, and coffee. Juicing is a current trend, as is fasting. People are advised to drink plenty of purified water, especially distilled water. Then there is the mental element. Individuals are encouraged to create balance between work and home life. During a detox or cleanse, it is suggested that individuals engage in relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation. It is also a good time to indulge in a lymphatic massage, take a bath in soothing epsom salt or chill out in an infrared sauna. Despite all this, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re forgetting something. While key in the detoxification process, somehow what we put on our bodies every day is often overlooked. Our skin is our largest organ. Yet many smear on creams and serums made with toxic oils, synthetic fragrances and fillers, and inject substances such as Botox and Juvaderm. All too often people are applying hair color laden with ammonia, PPD, resorcinol, gluten and more. Many shampoos, conditioners and body washes contain chemical preservatives, perfumes, parabens and phalates. Hair-smoothing treatments where a technician has to wear a gas mask while applying does not seem to faze even many health-conscience clients. Some makeup lines contain mineral oils, silicones, lead, synthetics, artificial colors and chemical preservatives known to be toxic. So where is the balance? We want to feel attractive as well as trust detoxification and beauty processes that are supportive of our health. Part of the answer is to find more natural-minded salons with beautifying and youth-preserving products and services that do not compromise our health. Michele Maestri-Murphy is the owner of Eco Chic Salon and Blow Dry Bar and a veteran Fairfield County stylist. Connect at 203-966-6555 or EcoChicSalonCT.com. See ad, page 4.

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Natural Skincare Matters Consumer Beware; You’re On Your Own

by Brooke Adams Law

In the U.S., the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) can regulate cosmetic chemicals. However, it only steps in if it has “reliable information” that a chemical could be toxic or harmful. “The result is that several chemicals with realistic chances of causing toxic effects can be found in everything from shampoo to toothpaste,” according to Scientific American. Where the European Union has banned more than 1,300 chemicals from personal care products, the U.S. has banned only 11. We haven’t passed a major federal law to regulate the safety of ingredients used in personal care products since 1938. And yet thousands of new chemicals have been developed and used in new products since then without being tested or regulated. When petitions are brought to the FDA, such as a recent one protesting the use of lead acetate in hair dye, it still may take years for the FDA to deliberate and take action. In the meantime, U.S. law does not require those personal care products, including cosmetics, be approved by the FDA or any other governing body. Likewise, the law requires no specific tests before a new product or ingredient is brought to market. 38

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

Chemicals banned in the EU but still legal in the U.S. include: CHEMICAL

USED IN...

POTENTIAL HARMFUL EFFECTS

Formaldehyde

Hair-straightening treatments, nail polish, eyelash glue

Known carcinogen

Hydroquinone

Facial skin care

Very high doses may lead to cancer

Lead acetate

Hair dye

Possible carcinogen

Petroleum products Mineral oil used in May contain contaminants that (also known as mineral bath oils, hair care could be harmful to health as well oil, paraffin and petrolatum) products and cosmetics as clog pores, causing breakouts Triclosan

commitment to natural, healthy living for many of us includes eating cleanly, moving our bodies regularly, devoting time to spiritual practices, and tuning up through bodywork like chiropractic care, acupuncture and massage. Another foundational building block to living healthfully is the products we use on our bodies every day. Many personal care products—even those labeled “natural” and “organic”—may be hiding chemicals that could be potentially harmful to our health. “Skin is our largest organ,” says Holly Arrindell, owner of Medicinal Skin in Ridgefield. “It absorbs products, so we want them to be safe.”

What’s the Harm in Conventional Personal Care Products?

“When I first began researching this topic, it opened my eyes to how profoundly inept our culture is at protecting the consumer in the area of personal care products,” says Siobhan McKinley, founder of Organachs Farm to Skin in Westport. As consumers of personal care products, we are our own best advocates; some effort is required if we want to reduce our exposure to unwanted chemicals. For some, the prospect of researching safer alternatives for everyday personal care products—such as skincare, sunscreen and makeup—may feel overwhelming.

Banned from the U.S. in hand soaps, but still allowed in other products including toothpaste

Can interfere with a receptor important for cell development, according to research out of the Biodesign Institute at Arizona State University

Do Natural Products Really Work?

McKinley hears this question from her customers all the time. Before starting Organachs, she worked in the beauty industry for 14 years. She notes that one problem with conventional skincare is that, “synthetic products sit on top of your skin. In contrast, your skin will synergistically recognize the botanicals and natural oils used in natural products.” Since making the switch to natural skincare herself, McKinley notes that her skin has never looked better. “I used to use cosmoceutical brands from doctors,” she says. “But since I switched [to natural products], my skin glows. Once you start going organic, you don’t go back! Your skin looks better, brighter, more hydrated, and more supple.” McKinley also notes that some people have doubts about the performance of natural products, especially cosmetics. “I carry a few makeup lines that were created by celebrity makeup artists,” she says. “The makeup I sell is high-performing, and it looks amazing on camera.” Connecticut mother Jennifer Zenke developed dry, red patches under her eyes and around her mouth after the birth of her son. “I tried everything to fix it,” she says. She tried hydrating, using more moisturizer and having her blood levels checked for vitamin deficiencies. She saw a dermatologist, who told her everything was fine. She tried all different products, but nothing worked. A friend who sold products from Beautycounter—a leading multi-level marketing agency devoted to safer skincare—offered to let her try some samples for a few days. “Before I even returned the products three days later, my eczema was 90 percent gone,” Zenke said. “That was the ‘aha’ moment that the eczema was obviously due to whatever I had been putting on my face before.”

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Making the Switch

Skincare is very individualized. When making the shift to natural products, be prepared to do some homework and then test different products to find what works best. “It can feel kind of daunting when you think of switching over; you don’t even know where to begin,” says Zenke, who has become a consultant for Beautycounter. “Beautycounter does their own research [on their products], and they’re concerned about ingredients and longterm effects. The fact that they’re making it easier to switch is so great.” McKinley recommends starting the swap with the one or two products you use the most frequently, and that sit the longest on your skin, including moisturizer and sunscreen. One place to start researching is with the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) Healthy Living app. Consumers can download the app, type in the product they’re using and view its safety rating and list of chemicals with possible health effects. Choose one or two that have a poor rating, and start by replacing those products with more natural alternatives. When choosing new products, remember that the FDA does not regulate the terms “natural” or “organic” in personal care products. “The word ‘natural’ doesn’t mean anything on skincare labels,” says Sherrylee Dickinson, a Fairfield County-based consultant with NYR Organic, a British natural skincare company founded in 1981. “It’s just a buzzword. There’s a lot of greenwashing that happens on these types of products.” Looking closely at ingredient lists and finding trustworthy brands is the safest way to ensure that products are truly safe and natural. Experts also note that when switching from conventional to natural skincare products, skin may react with breakouts at first. “Your skin is purging chemicals,” says McKinley. Experts say such reactions may last a few weeks before clearing up. Treating our skin to products that will protect our health in the long-term is one more thing we can do to live a natural, healthy lifestyle. Brooke Adams Law is a freelance health and parenting writer based in Stratford. Connect at BrookeAdamsLaw.com.

Product Recommendations from Local Experts

kincare needs are highly individual from person to person, but here is a sampling of products recommended by the local experts interviewed for this article. Beautycounter No. 3 Balancing Facial Oil: “I was nervous about this at first because I hear oil and I think breakouts,” says Zenke, “but it’s made from natural botanical oils and your skin absorbs it. This one balances your skin, reducing blotchy red spots; you can use it as a spot treatment for breakouts.” Dr. Alkaitis Organic Eye Crème: McKinley uses this eye cream, which can be used daily even on sensitive skin. May Lindstrom Problem Solver Warming Correcting Masque: McKinley loves this mask, which blends raw cacao, activated bamboo charcoal and exotic spices to brighten the complexion, heal inflammation, fade spots and treat breakouts. NYR Organics Wild Rose Beauty Balm: “It’s antioxidant-rich with organic rosehip oil and organic geranium, rich in vitamins A and E, and super nourishing to the skin,” says Arrindell. Alchimie Forever Kantic Calming Cream: “This cream is rich in natural antioxidants that help calm the skin from everyday environmental pollution and stress,” says Arrindell. “It’s great for rosacea-affected skin and sensitive skin types. It’s lightweight, but hydrating and repairing to the skin.” NYR Organic Beauty Sleep Concentrate: “This moisturizer is very light and it’s great for a humid summer. It’s designed to relax you—not necessarily to put you to sleep,” says Dickinson. For sunscreen, a conventional product many find difficult to replace, McKinley carries products from Suntegrity and Eir at Organachs.

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June 2018

All-Natural Beauty

Health Concerns Revolutionize the Cosmetics Industry

by Marlaina Donato

rom red carpets to Teen Vogue magazine, the natural beauty trend has taken the industry by storm. Consumer whims may have sparked its beginnings more than a decade ago, but demand is now spiking profits into the billions. “Consumer need is influencing retailers to offer cleaner formulas reflecting firm ecovalues,” says Karen Behnke, the pioneering entrepreneur who founded Juice Beauty, in San Rafael, California. Behnke aimed to create meaningful change in the industry when she assembled her dream team 13 years ago. The company now owns a trailblazing patent and sets the standard for clinical organics. “We’re excited that traditional department stores such as Bloomingdale’s, Neiman Marcus and Holt Renfrew are adding our

products to their beauty departments,” says Behnke, who attributes Juice Beauty’s tremendous growth in recent years to a surge of interest in chemical-free, luxury alternatives.

Natural Replaces Toxic A recent Green Beauty Barometer online survey revealed that more than half of women want their skincare products to be all-natural, a result likely driven by the scientific information age (see KariGran.com/ pages/greenbeauty for details). Reputable scientific studies revealing parabens in breast cancer biopsies have demonstrated that everything applied to the skin also enters the bloodstream, hence the effectiveness of dermal nicotine and birth control patches. Thus, it can be alarming to realize

Pack E n j o y e r o M S S LE

that the average woman will unknowingly consume seven pounds of lipstick containing petroleum-based emollients, synthetic preservatives and artificial dyes during a lifetime, undoubtedly another reason consumers are switching to natural options. Katey Denno, a Los Angeles makeup artist to the stars, noticed cosmetic red flags early in her career. “The first time I turned over a palette that most makeup artists carry and saw specific colors that couldn’t be used on eyes or lips, I was confused; if something isn’t safe for lips or eyes, how can it be good for any part of us?” queries Denno, who switched from social work to makeup artistry 11 years ago. “The change in the industry has been substantial. Now green is mainstream, and most artists have included some green beauty brands in their kits.” Millennials continue to drive consumer demand for higher standards. “Retailers understand that the skincare/makeup landscape is changing,” advises Behnke. “Traditional brands are no longer attracting younger consumers that are demanding organic, clinically validated products.” Denno concurs, stating, “The spotlight on clean products comes from the growing acknowledgement that we can and must do all we can to lower our overall toxic load.”

Demand Escalates Women are fueling the natural beauty movement, yet more men than ever are also seeking healthy alternatives. Grooming products with unisex packaging and fragrances are among top sellers. Informed teen and 20-something buyers are inclined to choose people- and eco-friendly brands that are also cruelty-free.

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healing ways

A wide selection of aluminum-free, natural, personal care products including underarm deodorants are showing up in supermarkets. Women are ditching toxic hair dyes and going silver to avoid thinning hair and allergies, and unwittingly, creating a new fashion statement. Plus, there’s growing interest in DIY cosmetics using everyday goodfor-you ingredients found in the kitchen. Artisan perfumes are gaining popularity among women that want the mystery and allure of fragrance without the side effects of manmade, chemical-based brands. “Some new customers are frustrated by commercial products giving them headaches, while others say that they just don’t like perfume, when what they actually don’t like is synthetic fragrance chemicals,” says Ananda Wilson, a botanical perfumer and owner of Gather Perfume, in South Hadley, Massachusetts. “It’s inspiring when they smell real plant scents and see how their world lights up! The molecules in natural perfumes are active and interact with personal chemistry, so they unfold differently on each wearer, creating a unique signature and experience.” Wilson ventured into botanical blends when both awareness and supplies of appropriate ingredients were scarce. “Perfume history is largely rooted in natural materials, but until recently, there was a mass blackout of this precious lineage. When I started, there was barely anything available, and only through a handful of aromatherapy companies,” she explains. Now, Wilson bases her products on botanical infusions from plants she’s grown or collected, including wild beach roses, clover and spring poplar buds. It only takes a whiff to dispel the myth that natural perfumes lack sophistication or tenacity. “Naturals have a breadth of possibilities—opulent white florals, fresh and clean, or dirty and smoky,” expounds Wilson. Eco-beauty is emerging from conscious lifestyle choices and creating the next era of cosmetics. “It’s fun to be called a pioneer in organic beauty,” muses Behnke. “Our products, employees and happy customers comprise an encouraging accomplishment.” Marlaina Donato is a freelance writer, author and multimedia artist. Connect at MarlainaDonato.com.

Essential Oils by the Label

s with other personal care products, presently there is no oversight of essential oil production or marketing in the United States. This has led in recent years to a proliferation of claims and counter-claims from the various manufacturers and their many wellness advocates. These companies and individuals are seeking to empower people to take charge of their health by using essential oils, which can be very safe and effective tools when quality oils are used as recommended. There are, however, many questions about the relative quality of oils currently available on the open market. What is marketing hype and what is a real distinction? Here’s a brief guide to help you decode labels if you’re considering adding essential oils to your healing toolkit:

USDA Certified Organic Essential Oils. Oils with this seal are the only essential oils that have had regulatory oversight and have met environmental standards in terms of the quality of the ingredients. This seal addresses everything from the way the soil was prepared, planting, growing and harvesting, all the way through distilling, manufacturing and bottling. Organic Essential Oils. In food products, a product must contain at least 95% organic products to be labelled “organic.” However, there are no such requirements for personal care products; any personal care product can legally use the label “organic” without regard to standard or regulation. The legal standard in the U.S. for the term organic generally refers to produce grown without harmful chemicals and pesticides. Therapeutic Essential Oils. There is no regulatory oversight or protocol for labelling a product as therapeutic compared to other terms like natural, pure or organic. This term is purely a marketing label as by definition all essential oils are inherently therapeutic when used correctly. Products labelled this way may or may not include ingredients that were sprayed or treated with fertilizers, pesticides or other harmful chemicals. Natural and Pure Oils. There is no standard for the words natural or pure; there is no independent third-party testing that can attest to their quality. These oils are the most commonly sold and are often found in retail stores, grocery stores and for online purchase. It is not uncommon for these oils to be diluted or adulterated; they may actually contain very little essential oil. Synthetic/Fragrance Oils. These oils are created in a laboratory and are of the lowest quality. These have no beneficial properties and may even be harmful. Information provided by N8 Essentials, based in Kansas City, MO. For more information, visit N8Essentials.com.

Find a guide to toxic personal care products at Tinyurl.com/CosmeticIngredientsGuide. ~Vibrant Wellness Journal

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Mangoes Carry Health Benefits Sergio33/Shutterstock.com

Mangoes contain potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties that may prove useful in treating gastrointestinal disease, cognitive decline and diabetes, report scientists at the University of Palermo, in Italy. Also, Texas A&M researchers have found that 300 people with Crohn’s disease that ate 200 to 400 grams of commercially available frozen mangoes daily for eight weeks had fewer digestive symptoms, improved inflammation biomarkers and less colon cancer-linked molecules in their digestive tracts.

New Healthy Coffee Alternative

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

203-885-4674 42

Success by Health (SBH), a new, re-branded company in the healthy lifestyle industry with its Reishi Mushroom-infused coffee products, now offers two healthy coffee products—Café Noir and Café Latte—in the natural beverage niche market for sales affiliates. They are formulated with the Reishi (Ganoderma) Mushroom, to help eliminate unhealthy caffeine in coffee, and with it, the unpleasant metabolic crashes associated with conventional coffee products. They smooth out the traditional highs, lows, jitters and resulting negative pH levels in the body. SBH is the latest direct marketing company started by Jay Noland, a former professional baseball player well-known in the direct selling industry. His business model eliminates the retail middleman through individual, independent sales affiliates. Each affiliate purchases a packet of Café Noir, the standard black coffee, for 68 cents a cup, and asks others they know and meet, “Do you drink coffee?” It’s an easy way to initiate a dialogue about the latest in healthy coffee. SBH founding members and independent affiliates are Dr. James Marinakis, an internationally recognized alternative medicine practitioner, in Boca Raton, Florida, and Jo Dee Baer, an age-group record-setting triathlete and health coach in Central Florida. To join the SBH team as an affiliate and improve health while increasing wealth, call 800-681-4926 or email 68CentsACup@gmail.com. See ad, page 44.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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[healthful] beverages taste good when your child is active, so encourage their drinking more of them,” she says. According to the National Alliance for Youth Sports, the recommended beverage contents for active kids during sports and other activities should contain at least 100 milligrams (mg) of sodium and at least 28 mg of potassium per eight ounces. It should be noncarbonated. We asked two moms keen on nutrition how they include these elements in drinks that kids will like.

Mom Picks

HEALTHY SUMMER HYDRATION Kids Love These Homemade Drinks

by Judith Fertig

t day camp or the pool, on the playing field or in the backyard, kids can get really thirsty, especially as temperatures climb. Although filtered water is always a good choice, sugary, carbonated, artificially colored and flavored beverages can be tempting. Having homemade options ready can entice kids to stay hydrated in a healthy way.

Clued-in Professionals “As a sports nutritionist and mother of active kids, I know there’s a lot of misinformation out there, and I get all kinds of questions from parents about what drinks are best for kids,” says Jackie Berning, Ph.D., a registered dietitian, sports nutrition consultant and professor of health science at the University of Colorado, in Colorado Springs. “Parents need to know that all beverages are not created equal when it comes to hydrating them. The best

Michele Olivier, the mother of daughters Elliette and Parker, views herself as both a lover of food and a control freak. The Denver, Colorado, recipe blogger started off making food for her baby and toddler. As her kids grew and their nutritional needs changed, she created new recipes, including healthy sports drinks that both balance electrolytes and hydrate. While Elliette loves water and has no trouble staying hydrated, Parker loves juice, so Mom had to “make something that looks like juice, but is healthy,” says Olivier. Four main ingredients are a little frozen fruit left over from breakfast smoothies, a bit of honey for sweetening, a dash of Himalayan sea salt and water, or herbal tea or coconut water. She might also add fresh mint, ginger or other natural flavorings (BabyFoode.com). Heather Dessinger, a mom of three and blogger of recipes and natural mothering tips from Santa Fe, Tennessee, makes a drink based on coconut water with lime juice, raw honey and sea salt for older kids that play soccer or other warm-weather sports. Dessinger describes herself as a researcher and healthy living DIY fan (Mommypotamus.com). With homemade drinks, we know exactly what is—and what isn’t—in them. They can be made in batches and kept in the refrigerator. Dessinger relates, “I’ve found that when I make a batch with honey, which is naturally antimicrobial, and store it in the coldest part of the fridge, my homemade sports drink lasts for at least a week.” Judith Fertig writes cookbooks plus foodie fiction from Overland Park, KS (JudithFertig.com).

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HEALTHY HYDRATING RECIPES Coconut & Lime Sports Drink

Blackberry + Lemon + Mint Electrolyte Drink

Yields: about 4½ cups of bolder taste for older kids

Yields: 4 cups photos by Stephen Blancett

4 blackberries, fresh or frozen ½ lemon, juiced 1 mint leaf 1 Tbsp honey ⅛ tsp Himalayan pink salt 4 cups water, herbal iced tea or coconut water Place all ingredients in a blender and set on high for 45 to 60 seconds or until fruit is completely puréed. Add ice to a water bottle and pour electrolyte water on top to serve. Popsicle Option: Follow the same instructions, but add an additional tablespoon of honey, and then pour the electrolyte drink into popsicle molds and freeze overnight. Courtesy of Michele Olivier, Tinyurl.com/4SportsDrinks4Kids.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

3 cups coconut water 1 cup water or more, based on preference in strength of flavor) ½ cup freshly squeezed lime juice (lemon is also delicious) ¼ tsp Celtic sea salt or other unrefined sea salt with trace minerals 2 Tbsp raw honey or maple syrup (or more to taste) Few drops of Concentrace mineral drops (optional) Mix all ingredients together and store in a sealed glass container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Adapted from a recipe courtesy of Heather Dessinger, Tinyurl.com/MoreSportsDrinks4Kids. Natural Awakenings recommends using organic, non-GMO (genetically modified) and non-bromated ingredients whenever possible.

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Kiwi. Full of vitamins C and E, serotonin and folate, kiwi can help us sleep longer. In a study at Taipei Medical University, in Taiwan, researchers had participants eat two kiwifruits one hour before bedtime for four weeks. Total sleep time improved by 13.4 percent.

conscious eating

EAT RIGHT TO 2 SLEEP WELL

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Soy. In a Japanese study published in the Nutrition Journal, researchers surveyed 1,076 participants between 20 and 78 on how often they ate soy products, which are rich in sleep-enhancing isoflavones. Those that ate the most soy foods enjoyed deeper, more sustained sleep. Researchers concluded that soy’s isoflavones help regulate the sleep/wake cycle.

10 Foods Help Us Relax and Rest

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by Judith Fertig

etting enough sleep—or not—has a trickle-down effect. A study in the Journal of Obesity shows that good quality shut-eye helps us reduce stress, lose weight and function better. Research also shows that most Americans would be healthier, happier and safer going about their daily activities if they slept 60 to 90 more minutes each night, according to the American Psychological Association. A consistent sleep routine helps enable a good night’s rest, with activities like going to bed at the same time whenever possible; shutting down the Internet, email and text messaging at least an hour before bedtime; and limiting intake of caffeine and alcohol. Another best practice is eating foods that help us relax, fall and stay asleep. Four primary sleep-promoting vitamins and minerals naturally found in foods are tryptophan, magnesium, calcium and vitamin B6. Some of these help the body produce melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating the body’s sleep/wake patterns called circadian rhythms. Others enhance serotonin, which carries nerve signals and relays messages in the brain related to mood and sleep.

Some foods are naturally packed with these essential vitamins and minerals, and eating certain foods at certain times can help us tip the scale towards a successful night of restful sleep.

Tart cherry juice. A study by the University of Rochester, in New York, found that older adults drinking two, eight-ounce servings of tart red cherry juice daily, one in the morning and one at night for two weeks, enjoyed moderate sleep improvement, comparable to taking the herb valerian and melatonin.

Fish. Salmon, halibut, mackerel and tuna help boost the production of vitamin B6, which helps make melatonin. A recent study from the University of Pennsylvania published in Scientific Reports found that eating more fish led both to better sleep and improved cognitive function in children.

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Fiber-rich foods. Choices such as chia seeds, nuts and whole grains help promote restorative “slow-wave” sleep, according to the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine.

Calcium-fortified yogurt. According to Dr. William Sears, a pediatrician in Pasadena, California, and author of The Baby Sleep Book: The Complete Guide to a Good Night’s Rest for the Whole Family, “Calcium helps the brain use the amino acid tryptophan to manufacture the sleep-inducing substance melatonin. This explains why dairy products, which contain both tryptophan and calcium, are some of the top sleep-inducing foods.”

7 Shutterstock.com

Bananas. Rich in potassium, magnesium, tryptophan and vitamin B6, which are used to make melatonin, bananas help promote good sleep. A study in the Journal of Pineal Research found that men that ate two bananas at a time for a week had a rise in melatonin that reached a peak two hours later; pineapple juice and orange juice also raised those levels.

Walnuts. Eating a handful of walnuts an hour before bedtime provides fibersupporting, restorative, slow-wave sleep, concluded a study in the journal Nutrition. Plus, walnuts are a good source of tryptophan, which helps make serotonin and melatonin;

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

University of Texas researchers also found that walnuts contain their own source of melatonin.

Dark leafy greens. Kale, spinach and collard greens are among the magnesium-rich greens that can help us de-stress and go to sleep, says Dr. Raj Dasgupta, a professor of pulmonary and sleep medicine at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles.

Almonds and dates. Nerina Ramlakhan, Ph.D., a London sleep therapist and author of Fast Asleep but Wide Awake: Discover the Secrets of Restorative Sleep and Vibrant Energy, counsels her clients to start at breakfast by eating eight almonds and two dates. These two fiber-rich foods are able to slowly help produce melatonin for later in the day. Judith Fertig writes cookbooks and foodie fiction from Overland Park, KS (JudithFertig.com).

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KELLY NOONAN-GORES ON HOW WE SHAPE OUR HEALTH by April Thompson

fter Los Angeles native Kelly Noonan-Gores spent 20 years in front of the camera as an actress, she turned her talents to producing awardwinningfilms like Tooken, Beneath and Take a Seat. She considers her latest, the documentary HEAL (HealDocumentary. com),to be her ultimate achievement. “I included as many inspiring stories of healing change as possible to expand viewers’ beliefs in what’s possible, to alter the narrative around mystery illnesses being incurable or cancer equaling death,” says NoonanGores. When she was prescribed Prilosec for acid reflux at age 28, Noonan-Gores decided she was too young and otherwise healthy to become dependent on it. By taking an integrative nutrition course, she realized the possibilities of alternative healing methods, catalyzing an ongoing explora-

tion into optimizing life and health through the powers of mind, body and spirit. “We are not the passive victims of faulty genes; our lifestyle choices, thoughts, and beliefs shape our health,” says Noonan-Gores, a longtime practitioner of yoga and meditation. HEAL features uplifting interviews with the scientists, visionaries and healers that inspired her, including Deepak Chopra, Bruce Lipton, Marianne Williamson and patients diagnosed with diverse ailments that sought different healing modalities to take their health into their own hands.

What are some common elements in the stories of patients featured in HEAL? One common thread revolves around our subconscious programming. From the time we’re

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born, we are downloading “programs” or belief systems from society, parents, teachers and whoever and whatever else is in our environment. Many have learned through their own healing journeys of negative belief systems running their lives; each one had to become aware of these beliefs in order to change. Another is that when events are too painful, we consciously suppress or unconsciously repress them, and that trauma stays in our cells and might manifest in disease. To move that stuck energy, we must heal that emotional trauma to allow physical ailments to transform. A third theme is understanding how stress affects our lives and immune systems, and doing things to manage or mitigate it through tools like meditation or breath work. Some of the patients worked with spiritual psychologists using Emotional Freedom Techniques to release past stress held in their body, shifting beliefs to a trusting, non-victim place. Dietary shifts also made a difference. In acute healing, we realize the effect of different foods which can reduce or exacerbate inflammation.

Which messages in how the body and mind collaborate to promote healing are audiences keying in on? Visualization is a powerful and widespread tool in healing; we can use imagination to reframe and tell a different story. Research has shown that visualizations can affect brain chemistry and lessen side effects. The mind is conditioned to go to the worst-case scenario; we can instead retrain

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How do emotions influence health and healing? Gregg Braden and Joe Dispenza, interviewed in HEAL, discuss how rage, jealousy, trauma and fear put the body in a stress response and create inflammation and other detrimental effects. But love, kindness, joy, gratitude and compassion release healing hormones and neurochemicals like oxytocin, serotonin and dopamine. It’s empowering to know that when negative emotions arise, you can become aware of and release them, then pivot to focus on gratitude or do something that cultivates joy. It’s a moment-bymoment choice.

Healthy people require a healthy planet; how can we apply these same principles to bring our world back into balance? The more conscious we become, the more we treat ourselves, others and our Earth with compassion. As more people awaken and demand a different response, the paradigm will shift. Health care will have to change as we apply the power in our hearts and minds. Our bodies are a microcosm of the universe; the planet can heal itself and thrive as we remove the toxins and become fully aware of what we are putting in the air, water and soil. Connect with April Thompson, in Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com.

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HEALTHY AND SUSTAINABLE?

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YOU BET Eco-Upgrades for America’s Landmarks Monuments and Parks Adopt Sustainable Practices by Avery Mack

ore U.S. landmarks are now highlighting eco-friendly practices, demonstrating that history can be preserved while incorporating sustainability.

Space Needle, Seattle

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Built in 1962, the Space Needle is undergoing a $100 million makeover. The observation deck will soon feature improved views through glass instead of cage-like barriers. Restaurant patrons will enjoy a first-of-its-kind rotating glass floor. Other eco-updates and upgrades include improved accessibility, internal systems, materials, elevators, paint, and seismic protection along its legs. Because the flame at the needle’s top consumed enough gas to heat 125 homes, it was replaced in 2000 with a flagpole mast, a beacon for aviators. When the rehab is completed in June, the structure will qualify for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver Certification.

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Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Alcatraz Island, California A pioneer in hybrid ferries, Alcatraz Cruises combines solar, wind and diesel power to transport visitors. Captured rain freshens park gardens and salt water flushes toilets. In 2013, solar energy produced what would have otherwise necessitated 31,900 gallons of fossil fuel and 325 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions.

Iolani Palace, Honolulu Updated lighting units with a life expectancy of 25 years enhance the Iolani Palace facade and provide a 77 percent energy savings, partly through an “instant on” feature instead of power-up lights.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona New buildings are LEED certified and shuttle buses are fueled by compressed

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natural gas. In 2010, a Climate Action Plan introduced green office practices, conversion to solar water heaters in National Park Service residences and increased composting to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from internal operations by 30 percent by 2020. The park is unique in its composting program for mule waste.

the soil without damaging historic relics, radishes were planted throughout the park, allowing rainwater to seep deeper,” he explains. “As radishes decay, nutrients are added to the soil.”

Walking Mountains Science Center, Avon, Colorado

Liberty Bell, Philadelphia, and Ground Zero Museum, New York City

Using both passive and active solar energy, ground-source heat pumps, vegetated roofs and sustainable building materials, Walking Mountains is the first science center in Colorado to achieve LEED Platinum Certification, exceeding requirements. Collectively, three of its buildings use half the energy of an average school building. Straw bale construction in some building walls provides sound-deadening insulation suited to a dry climate.

Gateway Arch National Park, St. Louis St. Louis’ CityArchRiver initiative raised a mile-long waterfront by 30 inches to reduce flood days by 67 percent without causing flooding downstream. “Spent grain donated by the neighboring AnheuserBusch Brewery fertilizes our 4,200 trees,” says Eric Moraczewski, executive director of the Gateway Arch National Park Foundation. In another innovation, “To aerate

researchers in Ithaca, New York. All 6,514 windows were refurbished to be four times more energy efficient than before, reusing 96 percent of the original glass and frames.

“The area housing the Liberty Bell is limited. We installed our ActivePure technology that reduces 99 percent of surface microorganisms and 90 percent of airborne microorganisms,” says Kevin Hickey, president of Aerus, LLC, in Dallas. “It keeps germs from spreading in crowded situations.” ActivePure is also in place at the Ground Zero Museum. “The nature of the artifacts often caused itchy eyes and coughs,” Hickey recalls. “We donated freestanding units and saw improved air quality the next day.”

Empire State Building, New York City The iconic historic structure is the tallest LEED-certified building in the U.S. It’s also the most photographed building in the world, according to Cornell University

Statue of Liberty, New York City Cooking oils are repurposed as bio-diesel fuel here, annually diverting an average of 10 tons of waste from landfills. More than 6,000 pounds of coffee grounds from serving visitors and staff are composted. Lady Liberty has been 100 percent carbon neutral for 12 years.

South Carolina Aquarium, Charleston Since 2001, the Aquarium has recycled everything from cardboard and paper to wine corks and ink cartridges. Charleston Harbor water fills the saltwater fish tanks, and landscaping using less-thirsty native plants reduces freshwater use. While enjoying visits to America’s landmarks, it’s gratifying to realize so many are adopting eco-friendly measures. Connect with the freelance writer via AveryMack@mindspring.com.

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RUNNING WITH THE KIDS Strengthens Body, Mind and Family Spirit

by Marlaina Donato

ombining regular exercise with quality family time can be an enjoyable and fun way to realize a healthier lifestyle. Running together in fresh air, preferably in natural settings, allows children as young as 5 to safely join in.

Physical and Emotional Perks

Families and coaches agree that running benefits both body and psyche. “Running as a family is an incredibly bonding experience, putting aside some of the usual conflicts and perceived hierarchies

and just coming together,” says William Pullen, a London, England, psychotherapist and author of Running with Mindfulness: Dynamic Running Therapy (DRT) to Improve Low-mood, Anxiety, Stress, and Depression. “Running also gives us a place where we can develop skills like building confidence and competency.” Marc Bloom, of Princeton, New Jersey, author of Young Runners: The Complete Guide to Healthy Running for Kids From 5 to 18 and The Runner’s Bible, concurs, stating, “Running as a family can give parents the opportunity to be good role models by instilling values of health, fitness and togetherness.” Experts emphasize the fun factor. Pullen encourages both parents and kids to get out of their heads and into their bodies. “Concentrating on breath, posture, sensation and location all help make running mindful,” he suggests. “The important thing is to show up. It’s about participation, not breaking personal bests,” Pullen continues. Kids can play a game while running, such as silently counting steps, trees or other runners.” Mindfulness can also include sharing how it feels to run and meeting challenges along the way. Bloom suggests tuning in to nature. “Being in beautiful surroundings or watching for animals can promote mindfulness,” he says. “It can be spiritual.”

Safe Start

For beginners, experts recommend approaching running as a desirable pastime and adopting a slow, easy pace. “Always make running fun, not a chore,” encourages Bloom. “Frame it as being outside, playing and sharing with friends and family. Make a game of it as much as possible.” Whether a family chooses to run in the park or in a community race, experts stress the importance of not setting goals. “Make it pleasurable. Don’t worry about time and distance. Start with short distances, maybe a block or two for novice runners or very young children,” advises running coach Jeremy Sanders, from Winchester, Virginia. “Be patient. Some days, the kids will get cramps. They may whine or get moody. Other days, they will be happy and content. Don’t let one bad run ruin the opportunity to try again another time.” Running coaches and seasoned runners agree that it is wise to tailor runs according to age and fitness levels. “Kids can begin at

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RELIGION - SPIRITUAL

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TURN YOUR LIFE

from a constant state of lacking what

TO ONE OF HAVING IT ALL.

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Finding inspiration as a family can include running for worthy causes; most communities host charity runs. “This can become a focal point for getting in shape, raising money and running for the greater good, not just yourself,” says Bloom. Mindful running presents regular opportunities to explore new places, focus on details that often go unnoticed and make exercise an active meditation for all involved. “Show kids how to notice what is going on around them when they run,” suggests Pullen. “You can read up and educate yourselves on trees, geology or the change of seasons so they feel a powerful sense of connection and freedom.” Whether running as a family is motivated by a desire to stay fit, get someplace or simply share more quality time, being in the present moment is most important. “Life is not about striving all the time,” exhorts Pullen. “Take the kids out. Keep it fun and make it into an adventure.”

Life Change Your Change a Letter, the on interpreting is a new twist that ion, which states law of attract the you put out is whatever energy the back. By using energy you get book provided in this information in the few alterations and making a turn can you and act, way you think nt state of consta a your life from need you want and lacking what it all. to one of having

R LIFE

trapped that keeps you the locked door in that can open an ultimate goal That magic key for change, having actually is having a desire in your old life goal before you can reach that . believing you g before seeing mind, and then entire book: believin this of the theme see it. That is lf to get yourse begin, you have gful change can se to Before any meanin expect the univer belief. You can’t there is of complete believe mode a into you can totally the g different until at crap, then show you anythin looking on insist is nt to see. If you because that something differe g you more crap to keep showin universe is going attraction. your point of

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based a PennsylvaniaD.L. KLINE is ordinary lived a fairly author who at the c awakening life until a psychi r. ed things foreve age of 60 chang of books series a He is now writing y to help journe al spiritu about his In their own paths. along others about offers advice this book, he ion al Law of Attract using the univers into al abundance to bring spiritu

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school age, 5 or 6; but start them with a few minutes and then add more, up to 15 minutes to a half an hour or so a few days a week. Always mix in sprints for short attention spans. Keep it simple. No fancy running shoes are needed when starting, just regular sneakers,” advises Bloom. “For teens, 30 to 45 minutes at a time a few times a week is fine, provided that they have bona fide running shoes.”

you want and need

A Matter of and

Death

Life

What really happens when our bodies cease to function? How can we plan our lives to make the most of our time on Earth? After an unexpected awakening, D. L. Kline writes about his own spiritual journey to help others find their own paths. written by D.L. KLINE, a Pennsylvania-based author

That magic key that can open the locked door that keeps

in your old life is having aNOW. desire for change, having an ul Both books are available mind, and then believing you can reach that goal before Order your copy at: Amazon.com see it. That is the theme of this entire book: believing b or DaveNJasper.com Marlaina Donato is a freelance writer, author and multimedia artist. D.L. KLINEBalboaPress.com is a Pennsylvania-based

Connect at MarlainaDonato.com.

author who lived a fairly ordinary life until a psychic awakening at the age of 60 changed things forever.

Breathing While Running William Pullen: “Mindful breathing is simply making the observation of one’s breath being the priority over thoughts. Each time the mind interrupts, gently return to the breath. Learning how to do that gently is what it’s all about—it means letting go of forcing, wishing and striving—and just gently doing.” Marc Bloom: “I’m not a fan of instructing young kids how to breathe while running because thinking about a must-do task can spoil the fun, and also seem like homework. Runners breathe naturally through their mouths, with an occasional deep breath through the nose. You can get technical with this, but not for kids. Be aware if breathing gets labored. If kids feel out of breath they’re probably running too fast. Kids love to start off fast, often too fast. Also, normal breathing might feel ‘out of breath’ and wrong to them because they’re not accustomed to it. Explain this to newbies beforehand by telling them what to expect.” Jeremy Sanders: “Everyone is different. Your breathing changes with effort and the more you run, the more you learn what works for you. You can experiment by breathing through only your nose or only your mouth, or in combination, in through the nose and out through the mouth. You can also alter the number of steps between each breath to get a comfortable rhythm going.”

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naturally healthy pet

Pasture-to-Pet Food Company Offers Subscription Plan

The Monthly Naturally Healthy Pet Section Starts Here!

ew Milford’s Paul’s Custom Pet Food (PCPF) is now offering clients their signature, locally sourced, handmade, human-food-for-pets through a subscription plan that makes purchasing simple and seamless. The service is for those living in Litchfield or Fairfield Counties in Connecticut, and Manhattan or Westchester County in New York. The door-to-door delivery is free. Paul Gallant and Lynn Felici-Gallant founded Paul’s Custom Pet Food in 2014 after witnessing the healing power that fresh food and herbal medicine had on their own dog, a Golden Retriever named Hunter. Ever since, the couple have wanted to offer a subscription service that is convenient and helps pet parents save money. They spent the last year upgrading their website in order to do so. “We believe the idea of knowing where your food comes from should extend to our furry family members,” said Felici-Gallant. “We’ve spent the past four years developing relationships with farmers, local merchants, veterinarians and animal nutritionists so we can tell people exactly what they are feeding their dog or cat, how it’s made, and the reasons it is healthful and beneficial. We’re totally transparent, as all pet food makers should be.” For more information or to order a subscription, call 603-706-0739, email Lynn@PaulsCustomPetFood.com or visit PaulsCustomPetFood.com.

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Tucson—50 welcoming restaurants and sunny weather San Diego—200 restaurants, plus a dogs-welcome beach Denver—posted solid scores in all categories Las Vegas—dog parks favored by dry, sunny weather New York City—high on walkability, especially in good weather Sacramento—affordable housing and lots of green space Phoenix—friendly restaurants and shops, plus sunny days Chicago—great walking; bundle up against lake breezes Top 10 list by SmartAsset.com. Find a different, 100 best list at Wallethub.com/edu/ most-pet-friendly-cities/5562.

or email NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

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hole. This person could have past trauma in their life, personality disorders, paranoia or depression, or a combination of related factors. In other cases, it is a result of predatory and selfish behaviors where animals are at their mercy. In both scenarios, the collected animals are likely to suffer.

The Dark Side of Animal Rescue Animal Hoarding is Real

by Mary Oquendo

ow does someone go from helping pets out of high-kill shelters and dangerous living conditions to being brought up on charges of animal cruelty? A dark and unfortunate reality of rescue is that one-quarter of all animal hoarding cases involve rescued animals. And many of these cases also include registered 501(c)3 nonprofits. Before we continue, it’s important to take a moment to recognize and acknowledge the majority of pet rescuers. The number of pets euthanized at shelters has been drastically reduced through their efforts, including education, fostering, and transferring animals from high-kill shelters to forever homes. It was estimated that over 20 million pets were euthanized every year at shelters in the 1970s. By 2008, that number was reduced to 3.7 million, and each year it gets smaller. That’s over an 80 percent reduction! So, great thanks are due to all those who have provided a rescue with a happy home. Naturally, animal cruelty cases garner media attention; they tend to be high profile

due to the sheer number of animals involved, and even more so when a pet rescuer is involved. The reality is that most people involved in rescues are only concerned with the well-being of the animal, while a hoarder cannot relate to the needs of a pet. And there’s where the key difference lies.

What is Animal Hoarding?

According to the American Psychiatric Association: “People with hoarding disorder excessively save items that others may view as worthless. They have persistent difficulty getting rid of or parting with possessions, leading to clutter that disrupts their ability to use their living or work spaces.” In the case of animal hoarders, they are trying to save the lives of as many animals as they can without concerning themselves about the well-being of the pet. For them it becomes all about the numbers, not the care. How does this happen? Often, it starts out as a well-intentioned rescuer becomes overwhelmed and, rather than seeking assistance, plunges further down the rabbit

Pat Bradley certified equine massage therapist

“For the Good of the Horse” Equine Massage Myo-Fascial Release R i i a in o a tition

203-609-1255

How do you recognize an animal hoarding situation? This person may: 1. Have more than the average number of pets. 2. Not meet minimum standards of nutrition, sanitation or even sheltering of these pets. 3. Be in denial of any problem. 4. Have a home that is deteriorating and smells of ammonia or feces. 5. Have pets that are lethargic or thin. 6. Become isolated from the community. 7. Not allow people to come see/drop off/ pick up animals at their home.

What Can You Do To Help?

Contact social services and humane law enforcement. They are equipped to handle hoarding situations. It can be hard for even the average person who is bombarded with “Time Is Almost Up For This Pet” ads and social media posts about animals being added to euthanasia lists at shelters. If someone has a personality disorder, such posts can become a nightmare waiting to happen. Being able to recognize and intervene in an actual or potential hoarding situation will help save more pets as well as the people who don’t know how to part with them. Mary Oquendo is a Reiki Master, advanced crystal master and certified master tech pet first aid instructor. She is the owner of Pawsitive Education and Spirited Dog Productions. She can be reached at PawsitiveEd. com. See ad, page 57.

Final Journey,

LLC

( Pet Euthanasia Service )

Kristen Klie, D.V. M. and Associates

( 203 ) 645-5570 www.finaljourneyllc.com

pbradley4horses@gmail.com June 2018

Pets Welcome Here Happy Places to Live and Travel Together by Sandra Murphy

s of last year, 90 million dogs lived in American homes. Including cats, birds, fish, small animals and reptiles, the grand total is 393 million, reports the American Pet Products Association. Pets are considered family members by 95 percent of their people. Accordingly, pets are a key consideration in choosing a friendly place to live or visit. The personal finance website WalletHub analyzed the most pet-friendly U.S. cities encompassing criteria inclusive of access to veterinarians and cost, pet insurance rates, pet-friendly restaurants, pet-centric businesses, dog parks and animal shelters. SmartAsset, a personal finance technology company, ranked cities by dog parks, pet-friendly restaurants and stores, walkability, weather and housing costs. Unsurprisingly, many high picks are in warmer climates.

What to Seek

“First, look for pet-friendly landlords. Space to play, socialize and exercise animals is next on my list, followed by 56

breweries and restaurants that allow dogs on their patios,” says Alexandra Bassett, a professional dog trainer and owner of Dog Savvy Los Angeles. “I hike off-leash in Runyon Canyon and we visit the Pawbar at Pussy & Pooch, a pet lifestyle boutique, to mingle and sample treats. Food is the fastest way to make a dog comfortable in just about any setting.” Irvine and Carlsbad, California, and Portland, Maine, are among the first cities to ban use of toxic pesticides in public areas and homes, following pressure from local groups. Being closer to the ground and smaller in size, pets suffer adverse reactions faster than humans. Contact local environmental groups to help ban harmful insecticides and herbicides in public areas. In Pasco County, Florida, Epperson Community homes exemplify eco- and pet-friendly planning, with open spaces and solar power-lit trails for jogging and walking. Birdhouses throughout the property welcome wild feathered friends. A centerpiece lagoon enhances scenic walks and uses less water and energy than a tra-

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

ditional pool or golf course. Separate paths allocated for bikes and driverless cars keep dog walkers safe. Colony Cove, in Ellenton, Florida, is a 55-plus retirement community that allows multiple pets, including some breeds banned elsewhere. It maintains a large dog park, and at summer’s end, dogs are welcome to take a dip in the pool. Further, the association offers mobile groomers, photos with Santa and costume contests. All species are welcome at Rose Villa Senior Living, in Portland, Oregon, where residents’ request for an off-leash dog park play area was granted. One resident owns two dogs, two cats and an African gray parrot. The largest-ever Canadian residential project to earn Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design platinum certification, Calgary’s University District, embraces ecological conservation, habitat restoration and long-term conservation management principles. Designed for residents to age in place with their families, recreational fitness amenities include on- and off-leash dog parks, a pet-friendly activity space and paths leading to parks.

Favorite Activities

Sara Nick, chief content officer at Sidewalk Dog Media, in Minneapolis, suggests experiencing unique adventures. Dog paddling takes on new meaning via stand-up paddleboarding with a pooch at Minnesota’s Split Rock Lighthouse and Tettegouche state parks. Whatever the weather, equine-friendly pups can ride along in a horse-drawn carriage from Doubletree Carriage Company, in Spring Valley. Dogs are welcome to watch or snooze through film showings at the Long Drive-In, in Long Prairie. Birgit and Jim Walker, authors of Keep Your Paws on the Road: A Practical Guide to Traveling with Dogs, travel by RV in summer with their three dogs to favorite stops like Tombstone, Arizona. “Some tourist areas don’t welcome dogs, but in Tombstone,dogs can go for stage-

sirtravelalot/Shutterstock.com

Find amenable lodging at PetsWelcome.com.

natural pet

InBetweentheBlinks/Shutterstock.com

coach rides and down into a mine with you,” she says. Kim Salerno, president and founder of TripsWithPets.com, in Wake Forest, North Carolina, recommends Kimpton or Aloft hotels. “Kimpton accepts any pet, any size, weight, breed or species. Amenities include a bed, treats, a water bowl and toys with no additional pet fee,” she says. Salerno continues, “In Asheville, dogs are allowed on the grounds of the Biltmore Estate. The Ernest Hemingway House, in Key West, Florida, allows small, cat-friendly dogs. Boutiques, feed stores, wineries and art galleries may say yes to pets. Ask first and make sure your pet is well-behaved.” Whether at home or traveling, families can enjoy many opportunities to share new experiences with pets. Just be sure they mind their manners to have a good time. Connect with freelance writer Sandra Murphy at StLouisFreelanceWriter@ mindspring.com.

Toxins in the Grass

ogs eat grass, roll in it and walk on it. Pesticides on feet and fur walk into the house. One of the top three pesticides sold in the U.S., known as 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, or 2,4-D, is used for golf courses, landscaping and public areas. Popular products containing 2,4-D include: n Bayer Advanced All-in-One Lawn Weed and Crabgrass Killer n Ortho Weed-B-Gon Max n Scotts Liquid Turf Builder n Scotts Snap Pac Weed & Feed n Sta-Green Phosphorus-Free Weed & Feed Source: HealthyPets.Mercola.com

June 2018

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

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

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

PET PROTECTORS

BULLY BREED RESCUE

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

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

RIDGEFIELD OPERATION FOR ANIMAL RESCUE (ROAR)

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

45 South St, Ridgefield 203-438-0158 ROAR-Ridgefield.org

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

TAILS OF COURAGE 1 Pembroke Rd, Danbury 877-63-(TAILS) TailsOfCourage.org

WESTPORT ANIMAL SHELTER ADVOCATES (WASA) 1 Tower Ridge, Westport 203-557-0361 WestportWASA.org

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

UNLEASH YOUR EARNING POTENTIAL Fetch new customers by advertising in Natural Awakenings’ Naturally Healthy Pet monthly section 58

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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 57.

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.

calendar of events

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 13

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.

FRIDAY, JUNE 1 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.

SATURDAY, JUNE 2 Reiki 1st Degree Workshop – 9:30am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki Master (21 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. 2 manuals and certificate. $125. Angelic Healing Center for Reiki, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@ snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com. Spiritual, Psychic & Healing Fair – 11am-4pm. Mediums, Psychics, Healers, Tarot and Angel Card Readers . Free Admission; $35+ readings. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 845-709-4089. KathleenJames Medium@gmail.com. AlbertsonChurch.org. Demystifying the Bandhas – 1:30-3:30pm. With Karen Pierce. Learn the proper use of the powerful yogic locks Mula, Uddiyana and Jalandhara Bandha. Being conscious of Bandhas throughout yoga class can help you deepen your practice, contain your energy and provide newfound benefits. $39. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-7309642. Info@YogaSpace-CT.com. Yogaspace-CT. com/Events. Farm Pollinator Dinner and Soirée – 6:30-9pm. Join us for an exclusive dinner party, hosted by Chef Jennifer Balin, where we celebrate bees, butterflies and local organic farmers who provide pollinator habitat on their farms. Dinner followed by a “Pollinator Party” with dancing into the late evening. $150/per person. Sugar and Olives, 21 Lois St, Norwalk. 203-308-2584. Tinyurl.com/ CTNOFA060218. Evening of Community Kirtan – 7-8:30pm. With Kristen Ambrosi and Jagadisha Petrovic. This transformative call-and-response practice is joyful, healing and beautiful. No vocal experience or yoga mats needed. All welcome. $25/in advance; $30/ at door. The Jiiva Center, 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford. 203-345-7747. Support@JiivaCenter. com. JiivaCenter.com.

SUNDAY, JUNE 3 Sunday Afternoon Clinic Open House – 11am4:30pm. Interested in hearing about a different approach to health and feeling your absolute best? Great! Swing by for light refreshments and social interactions with Dr. Noori to better understand her specialty and how she may be able to help you. Shalva Clinic, 8 Lincoln St, Westport. 203-9164600. ShalvaClinic.org. Introduction to Spiritual Philosophy, Healing and Unfoldment – 1-3pm. $5/suggested donation. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave,

Old Greenwich. 845-709-4089. KathleenJamesMedium@gmail.com. AlbertsonChurch.org.

TUESDAY, JUNE 5 Yoga with Music - Special Guest Kevin Paris – 6-7pm. Join Heather for an all-levels vinyasa class with live music from special guest singer-songwriter, Kevin Paris. $25/advance; $30/drop-in. Sanctuary Power Yoga, 23 Franklin St, Torrington. 860-496-1500. Hmrems@yahoo.com. SanctuaryPowerYoga.com. Rewiring the Brain: What is Neurofeedback? – 7-8:30pm. With Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, EdD, BCN, LPC, board certified in neurofeedback. Neurofeedback therapy is a powerful, safe, non-medication 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.

FRIDAY, JUNE 8 Samsara and Cycles of Life with Berta Prevosti – 7-9pm. The endless cycles of life, death and rebirth are commonly known but we also cycle through many other samsara cycles of behavior and emotional learning. Learn to decipher what your cycle may be and how to break it. $30. The Jiiva Center, 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford. 203-345-7747. Support@JiivaCenter.com. JiivaCenter.com.

SUNDAY, JUNE 10 Creative Writing Workshop – 1-3pm. Learn practical tips and strategies to make your dream of writing that fiction novel a reality. Engage in fun and interesting writing exercises designed to improve your writing. $30. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 845-709-4089. KathleenJamesMedium@gmail. com. AlbertsonChurch.org.

markyourcalendar 4TH ANNUAL HCC INTERNATIONAL YOGA FESTIVAL 2018 Saturday, June 23 • 9-11am Sunday, June 24 • 9am-3pm Please join us in celebrating the sun, the Summer Solstice, Yoga and the community! Vegetarian luncheon provided both days. Bring a bottle of water and yoga mat. $10 Donation per day Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC) 96 Chapel St, Stratford RSVP to hold your spot: Kamal Pandya 203-685-1358 Wendy Simmons-Taylor 203-521-0359 HCC.Yoga.Wendy@gmail.com HCCYoga.com

Laughter as Medicine: A Laughter Yoga Gathering – 7-8:30pm. With Francine Shore. Laughter Yoga is a stress-relief program that’s been scientifically proven to cultivate positivity in our daily lives, flooding our bodies with positive hormones and easing our daily challenges. $20/advance; $25/day of. Enjoy Community Wellness, 980 Hope St, Stamford. 203-969-6363. Robyn@EnjoyCommunityWellness. com. EnjoyCommunityWellness.com.

FRIDAY, JUNE 15 Ice Cream Social – 4-7pm. Join New Morning for an Ice Cream Social to benefit Safe Haven. Enjoy an ice cream sundae (vegan/dairy-free options too) while giving back to the community. We will also be grilling burgers, hot dogs and vegetarian options. Come hungry. Donation to Safe Haven. New Morning Market, 129 Main St North, Woodbury. 203-263-4868. Living the Sutras: Taking Yoga Wisdom Beyond the Mat – 7:30-9:15pm. With Amy Pearce-Hayden. Journey into the ancient theory of classical yoga as codified by Patanjali and his Yoga Sutras. Begin with an introduction to the eight limbed path, followed by an asana practice designed to cultivate a deeper connection to the innate wisdom each of us carry that will be put to paper after. $25/ advance; $30/day of. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@YogaSpace-CT.com. Yogaspace-CT.com/Events.

markyourcalendar ALBERTSON MEMORIAL CHURCH UPCOMING EVENTS: Spiritual/Psychic Fair Saturday, June 2 and July 7 • 11am-4pm • $35+ Introduction to Spiritual Philosophy, HealingAnd Unfoldment with Rev. Greg Askildsen and Kathleen James Sunday, June 3 • 1-3pm • $5 Donation Creative Writing Workshop with RC Robbin Sunday, June 10 • 1-3pm • $30 Message Circle with Verline Eldridge Sunday, June 17 • 1-3pm • $20 Community Drum Healing Circle with Oscar Recalde Saturday, June 23 • 4-6pm • $15

ONGOING EVENTS: Sunday Service •11am-12:30pm Beginner Psychic & Mediumship Class with Bobby Kitsios Wednesdays • 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 June 2018

CONNECT WITH OUR READERS! THREE-MONTH EDITORIAL PLANNING CALENDAR

J U L Y A U G S E P T

Autoimmune Autopilot plus: Inflammatory Triggers

calendar of events SATURDAY, JUNE 16 Yoga in the Hills – 9am-noon. Join Sanctuary Power Yoga for a Summer Solstice celebration. An all-levels vinyasa class, vendors, food and fun. $15/ suggested donation. Ski Sundown, 126 Ratlum Rd, New Hartford. 860-496-1500. Hmrems@yahoo. com. SanctuaryPowerYoga.com.

SUNDAY, JUNE 17 Message Circle – 1-3pm. With Verline Eldridge. All participants will receive a message. She works directly through and with spirit; her teachings and workshops are spontaneous, inspired and always delivered with wit and humor. $20. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 845-709-4089. KathleenJamesMedium@gmail.com. AlbertsonChurch.org.

TUESDAY, JUNE 19

Soulful Parenting plus: Generational Healing

Expressive Arts & Movement plus: Livable Communities

Balancing your Gut Microbiome – 6-7pm. Dr. Boyd, board-certified Naturopathic Physician, will be discussing the gut microbiome and how to bring it back into balance. Come learn how he identifies imbalances through testing and uses this to address the root cause of your health concerns. Free. Shalva Clinic, 8 Lincoln St, Westport.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 20 Womansafe: A Self Defense Workshop For Women Of All Ages-Are You Ready? Are You Prepared? What If? – 7-9pm. Learn how to avoid being a target, how to handle a confrontation, the power of body language and non-verbal cues. $25. Mention this listing for $5 discount; $30/day of. Enjoy Community Wellness, 980 Hope St, Stamford. 203-969-6363. Robyn@EnjoyCommunityWellness.com. EnjoyCommunityWellness.com.

SATURDAY, JUNE 23 Goodbye Anxiety, Hello Freedom – 2-4pm. With Stephanie Dalfonzo, yoga teacher and anxiety expert. Learn simple yoga poses and many more skills and techniques to help you manage anxiety. $30/advance; $35/day of. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@YogaSpace-CT.com. Yogaspace-CT.com/Events. Community Drumming Circle – 4-6pm. Come experience the sound and healing power of the Drum. No experience necessary. $15. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 845-709-4089. KathleenJamesMedium@gmail.com. AlbertsonChurch.org.

FRIDAY, JUNE 29

203-885-4674 eNaturalAwakenings.com

Reiki Second Degree – 10am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher (21 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.

SATURDAY, JUNE 30 Reiki Second Degree Workshop – 9:30am5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher (21 years). Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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. Yoga and Shamanism – 1:30-3:30pm. With Karen Pierce. Learn how Indigenous teachings can bring direct awareness of energy moving through the body. Like yoga, Shamanism has been practiced around the globe for hundreds of thousands of years. $39. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-7309642. Info@YogaSpace-CT.com. Yogaspace-CT. com/Events. Celebrating Life with Tao Porchon-Lynch – 1:304:30pm. With Tao Porchon-Lynch. Rare opportunity to experience Tao’s unique and accessible teachings firsthand. Includes yoga practice, Tao’s signature yoga talk and an early celebration of her 100th birthday. $45/YTA members; $65/non-members ($55/$75 at the door). Yoga Studio at Club Fit, 584 North State Rd, Briarcliff Manor, NY. 914-5827816. YTAPresident@gmail.com. YTAYoga.com.

markyourcalendar UPCOMING ADVENTURES AT THE FARM! Saturday, June 9 • 10am-noon Join us for a lovely visit at the farm where you can learn about wild edibles, taste something delicious made by a student, share in a cup of delicious tea and more. You always learn something new when you head out on an adventure! Free Holcomb Farm 113 Simsbury Rd, West Granby RSVP: 860-764-9070

markyourcalendar HONORING THE PEQUOTS Friday, July 13 • 7:30-10pm Please join us for this sacred shamanic ceremony to honor the local Pequot Tribe, and join in a circle of healing for all ancestral ties of all the victims, perpetrators, and land spirits, connected to this war. All welcome to attend, no experience necessary. The first part of this ceremony will begin at Hunter Healing Hands, and continues to various land locations connected to the Pequot War. Disclaimer: This event is not associated with or sponsored by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation or any of its affiliates.

Exchange: $40 with pre-registration. All of the proceeds will be donated to the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation. Space is limited. For those aged 18 and up. Registration: Contact Jessica at 203-916-8381 or e-mail at HunterHealingHands@hotmail.com. HunterHealingHands.com

ongoing events

sunday Tal Fusion: Sunday Sweat – 9:15-10am. With Tal Fagin. Get your heart pumping and blood flowing with this eclectic, spirited, high energy class. Class is 50 minutes in length, so get ready to get in high gear. $18/class; $16/senior. Valley Spirit Cooperative & Wellness Center, 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot. 860-619-2788. Info@ValleySpiritCoop.com. ValleySpiritCoop.com. 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 music. 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.

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. 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. Karma Community Yoga – 5:30-6:30pm. Fourth Sunday. Our monthly donation-based class. Bring a non-perishable food donation, and enjoy an hour for your mind, body and spirit. The Ruby Tree, Sherman Village, 670 Main St S, Woodbury. 203-586-1655. Christina@TheRubyTreeCT.com. TheRubyTreeCT.com.

monday Releasing The Heart Qigong – 9:15-10:15am. Monday and Friday. Practicing Releasing the Heart has the power to bring about peace by removing distinctions between people, and reducing conflicts and quarrels. It is a uniquely carefree and vigorous form. $25. Barefoot Living Arts, 85 Mill Plain Rd, Bldg V, Fairfield. BarefootLivingArts.org.

Yoga All Levels – 10-11am. With Caroline. Class given according to whatever level of student happens to show up. All levels welcome. The class is hatha flow based with elements of relaxation, meditation, breath work, strength and flow. $18/ class; $16/senior. Valley Spirit Cooperative & Wellness Center, 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot. 860-619-2788. Info@ValleySpiritCoop.com. ValleySpiritCoop.com. Mid-day Meditation – 2-2:45pm. Monday-Friday. Come re-center in a group setting and cultivate peace during your busy day. Every weekday at 2pm, join us for a free meditation session. Stay as long as you are able, the option to leave as needed is always available. Free. Barefoot Living Arts, 85 Mill Plain Rd, Sportsplex at Fairfield Building V, Fairfield. BarefootLivingArts.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. 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 Slow Yoga – 10-11am. With Lella Ilyinsky. Class is set to a slower pace, and may include elements of restorative yoga, yin yoga and foundational flow sequences, depending on the needs of the class. Beginners welcome. $18/class; $16/senior. Valley Spirit Cooperative & Wellness Center, 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot. 860-619-2788. Info@ ValleySpiritCoop.com. ValleySpiritCoop.com. 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.

caring,

Without a sense of there can be no sense of

community. ~Anthony J. D’Angelo

Sunday Albertson Memorial Church Service –

June 2018

ongoing events 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. Yoga of Recovery – 6:30-8pm. For anyone in recovery, or looking to overcome self-destructive or self-medicating tendencies. Family members of those with substance use disorder, yoga teachers, therapists and counselors will also find this course helpful. $25/per class; $120/6-class card. Barefoot Living Arts, 85 Mill Plain Rd, 3rd Fl, Fairfield. 203640-0530. Joy@JoyHerbst.com. JoyHerbst.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 Mat Pilates – 9-10am. With Suzette Caldwell. Classic mat Pilates work out, vigorous class but open to all levels. You set the challenge bar for your workout. $18/class; $16/senior. Valley Spirit Cooperative & Wellness Center, 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot. 860-619-2788. Info@ValleySpiritCoop.com. ValleySpiritCoop.com. Midweek Retreat – 3-4:30pm. With Dr. Tanvi Gandhi. This sacred time will consist of intention setting with a small tea ceremony, followed by breath work, and a combination of acupuncture and meditation. You will leave with insight on your experience and a self-care tip for the week. $30/drop-in; $150/series. Barefoot Living Arts, 85 Mill Plain Rd, Bldg V, Fairfield. BarefootLivingArts.org. 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. 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. 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 education for women in the process of, or recently divorced. $20, $150/10-session card. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center, 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointShare.com.

thursday 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. Healing Gong – 10:30-11:30am. Healing Gong, a form of Sheng Zhen, is a restorative medical qigong that blends an ancient tradition with gentle, meditative movements performed seated on a chair. Healing Gong is an integration of healing traditions, using the power of nature to heal oneself. $25. Barefoot Living Arts, 85 Mill Plain Rd, Bldg V, Fairfield. BarefootLivingArts.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

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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. Mindful Movie Nights – 7:15-9:30pm. Fourth Thursday. Inspiring movies, documentaries, Ted Talks, new ideas, conversation and more. $9. Yoga Space, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-809-4409. VeronicaMarr4@gmail.com. YogaSpace-CT.com/ Events.

friday Releasing The Heart Qigong – 9:15-10:15am. Monday and Friday. Practicing Releasing the Heart has the power to bring about peace by removing distinctions between people, and reducing conflicts and quarrels. It is a uniquely carefree and vigorous form. $25. Barefoot Living Arts, 85 Mill Plain Rd, Bldg V, Fairfield. BarefootLivingArts.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 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. The Monroe Farmers’ Market – 3-6pm. Shop at a seasonal farmers’ market that offers fresh, Connecticut Grown produce, baked goods, prepared foods, seafood, eggs and more. Free weekly entertainment and activities for children and families. Free. Monroe Town Green, 7 Fan Hill Rd, Monroe. 203-452-2800. Info@MonroeFarmersMarket.org. MonroeFarmersMarket.org. 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 Find Your Edge Yoga – 9-10am. With Pauline Koinis. For yoga practitioners. A chance for yoginis and yogis alike to get a Saturday morning groove on; where laughter, challenge and heart all meet on the mat. $18/class; $16/senior. Valley Spirit Cooperative & Wellness Center, 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot. 860-619-2788. Info@ValleySpiritCoop.com. ValleySpiritCoop.com. 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. Spiritual, Psychic and Healing Fair – 11am-4pm. First Saturday. Would you like a second opinion on your life issues, or a personal message from a departed loved one? Are you curious about your purpose in this life, or seeking a bit more direction and focus? Come join us. Please check website for monthly updates. $35+. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-637-4615. Info@AlbertsonChurch.org. AlbertsonChurch.org. Yoga Advanced Studies 2018 with Karen Pierce – 1:30-3:30pm. First Saturday. Ongoing training for students who want to expand their practice. Different topic each month. $39/single session; $339/10 sessions. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@YogaSpace-CT.com. YogasSpace-CT.com/Events.

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. Evening of Community Kirtan – 7-8:30pm. First Saturday. With Kristen Ambrosi and Jagadisha Petrovic. An evening of community Kirtan. Special musical experience of singing our hearts open. This transformative call-and-response practice is joyful, healing and beautiful. $25/advance; $30/ at door. The Jiiva Center, 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford. 203-345-7747. Support@JiivaCenter. com. JiivaCenter.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.

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

HELP WANTED DISTRIBUTORS WANTED for monthly deliveries of Natural Awakenings and other local publications. Perfect for a retired person or stay-at-home mom looking to earn some extra income and connect with their local community. Honesty and dependability are the most important characteristics of our distributors if you don’t have it in spades, please do not apply! Thomas@ManInMotionLLC.com. DO YOU LOVE NATURAL AWAKENINGS? Help us spread the word! We’re looking for Community Street Team Members to work with us at upcoming spring/summer events all over CT. Please send an email (subject line: COMMUNITY) and resume to NicoleM@ NaturalAwakeningsmag.com.

SIBO? Leaky Gut? IBS?

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Order online at MyNaturesRite.com or call 800-991-7088. June 2018

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

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 48.

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

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 49.

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 11.

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

Modern-day apothecary offering tinctures, teas, essential oils, and CMYK 1, 99, 1, 0 professional supplements. Services include custom herbal CMYK compounding. Our 58, 79, 0, 0 wellness boutique features items for wellness, beauty and home, as well as artisanal items including jewelry, healing crystals and ceremonial Aleo – Bold items for sacred ritual. CMYK: 72, 66, 65, 79 P R O X I M A N O VA – S E M I B O L D

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ADAM BREINER, ND

The NeuroEdge Brain Performance Center Full Color Division of Whole-Body MedicineOne Color 501 Kings Hwy E, Ste 108, Fairfield 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 10.

BREAST THERMOGRAPHY ALBA THERMAL IMAGING LLC Safe, painless early detection 71 East Ave, Ste D, Norwalk 203-856-1421 AlbaThermalImaging.com

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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.

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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.

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 Knockout White (For Darktraining Backgrounds)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 31.

COLONICS COLONICS

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

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE LLC

501 Kings Hwy E, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 WholeBodyMed.com 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.

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY/ ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE 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.

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.

ENERGY HEALING 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 35.

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 4.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

HEALTH COACH MARY GILBERTSON WELLNESS Mary Gilbertson, MS, BSN, CHHC Licensed RN, Nutritionist and Certified Health Coach 500 Purdy Hill Rd, Ste 2, 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.

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 30.

HEALTHY EATING CHEF ELIANA GRUBEL, CHC

Licensed and Insured In-home Cooking Services 203-559-8946 • CleanFood4UrType.com As a Board-Certified Health Coach by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners and member of the Unites States Personal Chef Association, Eliana’s passion is her clients’ success. She has been serving CT for over 15 years, and is now offering new services including short-term detoxes, meals to freeze, dinner parties, cooking classes, personalized coaching programs and seminars. See ad, page 16.

HOLISTIC DENTIST DAVID L LERNER, DDS, CAC, FIND Yorktown Heights, NY 914-214-9678 • HolisticDentist.com

We offer a unique approach to the health care of the mouth based on a holistic understanding of the whole body. I invite you to explore our website to learn how we can serve your needs. See ad, page 23.

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.

June 2018

HYPNOSIS

INTEGRATIVE NATURAL MEDICINE

HEALING TREE WISDOM

Thea Litsios, CHy Locations in Norwalk and Stratford 203-693-1493 • HealingTreeWisdom.com 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 15.

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 27 and 49.

UNIVERSAL INTELLIGENCE, LLC Redding 203-451-3383 Support@UniversalIntelligence.info UniversalIntelligence.info

My name is Althea, which means healer. I work collaboratively with clients to release where they are “stuck” and get to where they would like to be. I use the modalities of hypnosis, coaching, emotional freedom techniques, among others, in a safe, tranquil environment. See ad, page 13.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PHYSICIAN HENRY C. SOBO, MD

Optimal Health Medical LLC 111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-348-8805 • DrSobo.com Advances in Regenerative Medicine allow Dr. Sobo to offer cutting-edge technologies such as PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) treatments and adult stem cell therapy. Dr. Sobo’s integrative approach addresses a variety of conditions such as: food allergies, Alzheimer’s/ dementia, chronic fatigue syndrome, weight loss, hormonal health, fibromyalgia, anti-aging medicine, and MTHFR-Genetic Mutation. See ad, page 7.

SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER

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

INTEGRATIVE NATURAL MEDICINE 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.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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 15.

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 17.

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 20.

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 48.

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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 11.

MIND BODY CONSULTING 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 29.

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.

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 ad, page 5.

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 37.

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 33.

SHALVA CLINIC LLC

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

CMYK: 72, 66, 65, 79

NEUROFEEDBACK

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.

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 10.

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 ad, page 26.

June 2018

ORGANIC SALON

PSYCHOTHERAPY

RELATIONSHIP COACH

ECO CHIC SALON SPA & BLOW DRY BAR

NANCY SCHERLONG, LCSW

UNIVERSAL INTELLIGENCE, LLC

Eco Chic Salon Spa & Blow Dry Bar is committed to the healthy way of life so many people strive for each and every day. Mindful stylists are dedicated to the use of environmentally friendly products, including Eco Chic branded products, and alternative hair services with less toxic variations from the typical salon experience. Be well. Be beautiful. See ad, page 4.

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.

16 Center St, Wilton 203-286-9632 EcoChicSalonCT.com

Coaching/Psychotherapy/Consulting Offices in Danbury and Ridgefield 914-572-3167 WellnessMetaphors.com

PSYCHOLOGIST BEING CENTERED: PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES, PLLC Fairfield 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.

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 10.

ROBIN ORDAN, LCSW

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.

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 20.

TURNING POINT REIKI LLC

JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield 203-438-3050 TurningPointReiki.com TurningPointShare.com

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 9.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Redding 203-451-3383 Support@UniversalIntelligence.info UniversalIntelligence.info

SHAMANIC PRACTITIONER HUNTER HEALING HANDS

Jessica C. Hunter 203-916-8381 HunterHealingHands@hotmail.com HunterHealingHands.com Healing sessions in shamanic healing, Melody crystal healing, Reiki, shamanic intuitive readings. Accredited and certification training programs in Reiki, crystal healing and shamanic healing. See ad, page 51.

TAI CHI/QIGONG MINDFUL HEART TAI CHI Linda Dohanos Linda@mhtaichi.com MHTaiChi.com

With more than 20 years of experience teaching tai chi and qigong, I have developed a gentle, therapeutic exercise program for homebound seniors and seniors in rehabilitation. I teach to all levels and ages in a class setting as well. I also offer Reiki sessions. See ad, page 15.

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 11.

d Thermal Imaging (DITI) THERMOGRAPHY DA approved full body east screening. WHOLE HEALTH ive • No Radiation THERMOGRAPHY LLC 8 years earlier breast Rachel Mazzarelli, MS, CCT Locations throughout Fairfield County, ction vs mammogram Southbury, New Haven, Milford and New York ging for detecting and 203-257-3785 a number of diseases WHThermography@gmail.com hysical injuries. WholeHealthThermography.com

Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging (DITI) is an FDAapproved, noninvasive, -3785 no-radiation screening for the whole body. It offers possible ughout earlier detection of breast disease , Southbury, and can aid in diagnosis and Milford, improved prognosis of many health conditions York and injuries.

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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.

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 9.

WELLNESS CENTER 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.

HAUTE HEALING OASIS

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 35.

SARAH ROTELLA

Enlightenment Center, Integrative Wellness Therapies 100 Danbury Rd, Ste 102, Ridgefield Additional location in Greenwich 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.

792 Pacific St, Stamford 203-595-5304 Info@HauteSauna.com HauteHealingOasis.com

Haute Healing Oasis is Fairfield County’s premiere wellness spa. Featuring luxurious, private infrared sauna spa rooms, Young Living aromatherapy, chromo light therapy, BEMER physical vascular therapy, elite massage services as well as other holistic, safe, noninvasive healing modalities. Come and experience the HAUTE difference in health and wellness today. See ad, page 28.

JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER

Berta Prevosti, Usui and Karuna Reiki Master 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 • JiivaCenter.com Jiiva is in the business of building a community for yoga and healing. We offer yoga classes, a school of Reiki, private Reiki treatments, traditional massage therapy, Thai massage, meditation classes, workshops and community events. See ad, page 20.

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 41.

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 5.

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.

SOUL SYNERGY WELLNESS

1492 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-356-5822 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 8 and 26.

June 2018

COSMIC RHYTHMS Celebrate the Summer Solstice with Light

by Michele Leigh

nce again, the planets are pretty peaceful for the first part of the month, and then things start kicking into gear as we rev up for the Summer Solstice. This month is brewing with the energy of Cancer with both Mercury and the Sun moving into this introspective, nurturing water sign. Mercury enters Cancer on June 12, kickstarting the waterdominant energy. This triggers our planet of communication to be cognizant of other people’s feelings. Water signs prioritize emotions above all else. Before we speak up, we need to ask ourselves three questions about what we want to say: is it necessary, useful and kind. On June 13 at 3:45pm (EST), the Sun and Moon meet in the sky, and we have a curious New Moon in the chatty sign of Gemini. This airy energy is a good time to set an intention for a new 28-day cycle. Gemini is represented by duality and connected to siblings, especially twins. This is the time of year when we are encouraged to let our inner lioness roar. Our planet of relationships, Venus, enters the dramatic, creative sign of Leo on June 13. This fiery sign will encourage us to take action and let our hair down in the area of relationships. The Summer Solstice arrives this year on June 21 at 6:07am (EST). Solstice comes from the Latin words “sol”, meaning “sun”, and “sister”, meaning “to stand still”. At the Summer Solstice, the Sun reaches its northernmost position and comes to a stop at the Tropic of Cancer. Honor the longest day of the year by spending time outdoors under the sky. When night does arrive, light a bonfire or put candles in the window. Ancient men celebrated the Solstice with light to encourage the Sun to continue providing its life force. We end the month with an ambitious Full Moon in Capricorn on June 28 at 12:53am (EST). The determined goat represents Capricorn; this energy can be used to implement structure in our lives. A Full Moon is a good time to clean house and remove any obstacles standing in your way, specifically in the area of career. Michele Leigh is an astrologer, author and yoga teacher. A practitioner of ancient techniques, she is an active member of OPA (Organization for Professional Astrology). Connect at DarkMoonAstrology@gmail.com. 70

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June 2018

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