Natural Awakenings Fairfield County March 2016 by Natural Awakenings Magazine

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Special Issue

Healing Chronic Pain Naturally Conscious Landscape Design

Permaculture Brings Mindful Rewards

Fighting for What’s Right The Evolution of Health Advocacy

March 2016 | Fairfield County Edition | eNaturalAwakenings.com

The Natural Choice – The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center

Optimize Your Smile and Your Health! Whole-Body Dentistry® provides comprehensive oral health care using traditional and holistic approaches. We understand the “mouth-body connection.” Mark A. Breiner, DDS

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

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

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

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

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March 2016

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22 COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: 26 CT NOFA WINTER CONFERENCE by Nicole Miale

26 HEALING

CHRONIC PAIN Natural Protocols Offer More than Symptomatic Relief

by Angela Pascopella

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HEAL CHRONIC PAIN Reduce Inflammation, Increase Quality of Life

by Jessica Moon

38 PERMACULTURE

HELPS YOU AND YOUR GARDEN GROW Conscious Landscape Design

Brings Mindful Rewards

by Quinlan Mitchell

44 MINDFUL MINUTES FOR LITTLE ONES

Yoga Helps Kids Focus and Relax by Julianne Hale

48 WEEDS: NATURE’S PHARMACY by Jody Eisemann

52 FIGHTING FOR

WHAT’S RIGHT Evolving Paradigm Gives

Health Advocates A New Role

by Sheri Hatfield

57 WELL-MANNERED CATS

Simple Ways to Get Kitty to Behave by Sandra Murphy

7 newsbriefs 18 healthbriefs 20 globalbriefs 21 actionalert 32 fitbody 33 practitionerprofiles 32 39 productmarketplace 40 greenliving 46 inspiredtable 50 consciouseating YOU SHOULDN’T HAVE TO WORRY YOU SHOULDN’T HAVE TO WORRY 55 inspiration ABOUT MATTRESS ABOUTWHAT’S WHAT’SIN IN YOUR YOUR MATTRESS 56 naturallyhealthypet EVERY NIGHT WHEN YOU GO TO BED. EVERY NIGHT WHEN YOU GO TO BED. 57 naturalpet petresourceguide Did mattresses Did you you know know regular regular mattresses 55 60 6 1 calendar containtoxic toxicflame flame retardants retardants that contain thatare are 65 classifieds knowncarcinogens? carcinogens? You You should. known should.Our Our 65 resourceguide mattresses are are made made with mattresses with organic organic 70 displayadindex cotton, wool, all-natural rubber. cotton, wool, all-natural rubber. No No PBDEs. No petrochemicals. We have advertising & submissions PBDEs. No petrochemicals. We have the certifications to prove it. the certifications to prove it.

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March 2016

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contact us Publisher/Executive Editor Nicole Miale Editor Ariana Rawls Fine Design & Production Kathleen Fellows Erica Mills Contributing Writers Sheri Hatfield, Kelly McCaffrey, Quinlan Mitchell, Mary Oquendo, Angela Pascopella Community Street Team Leslie McLean Sales & Marketing Alexa Ferrucci Nicole Miale Operations Shelley Hawkos & Matt Zeccola Distribution Man in Motion LLC Natural Awakenings Fairfield County 54 Danbury Rd, Ste 323 Ridgefield, CT 06877 Phone: 203-885-4674 Fax: 203-516-2392 NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com eNaturalAwakenings.com NAWebstore.com NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com © 2016 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

t seems impossible to watch network television these days without being bombarded by pharmaceutical advertising. That in itself is not a new phenomenon; however, I couldn’t help but notice recently how many of those ads relate to autoimmune conditions and associated chronic pain. I found it astounding and saddening how much money is being devoted to create and market pharmaceutical drugs to manage chronic pain. It got me thinking about the way we live today, the chronic stress we all seem to be under, how our bodies react with tension and increasing pain. What else we might do to help ourselves besides better living through pharmacy? As is my habit when an idea sparks, I asked Nicole Miale some local experts for their thoughts. Was healing chronic pain naturally possible? Was pain management through natural means another form of symptomatic treatment or was it actual healing? What I heard in response was an emphatic and consistent message: it is not only possible to heal chronic pain naturally, it happens all the time! It is possible because the natural protocols address the underlying cause of the condition and/or the pain. In fact, some of the experts had their own personal experiences— journeys through and beyond illness and pain—which they were eager to share. This special issue about healing chronic pain naturally includes a look at a plethora of techniques and tools readily available in our community. The availability of so many options raised another question for me. How does one navigate the increasingly complex array of possibilities for treatment? Whether facing your own illness or assisting a loved one in dealing with theirs, there is a confusion that arises from too many choices! In recognition of this, a new profession is growing to fill the need; there are educated and passionate individuals acting as and teaching us to become health advocates. We spoke with some fabulous people in Fairfield County about their experiences and what it means to advocate for your own health. I hope you find this information useful and inspirational, whether for yourself or someone you may be helping through a difficult time. Since March is usually the start of the planting season—or at least the planning to plant season—it is fitting that in this issue we should spotlight the Connecticut chapter of the Northeast Organic Farming Association (CT NOFA). CT NOFA has been holding the standard high for organic farming and gardening practices for decades and plays a pivotal leadership role in our area. Their 34th Annual Winter Conference will take place in Danbury on March 12 and 13. If you have an interest in gardening, organic land care and food, or creating a healthier environment, you will not want to miss this event. They will be unveiling some exciting new initiatives; you get a sneak peek in our spotlight. Wishing you pain-free, verdantly green days during the month of March and beyond… With love and light,

SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available by sending $30 (for 12 issues) to the above address. Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soy-based ink.

Fairfield County Edition

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

newsbriefs The Truth About Cancer Airing in Norwalk

reeFilmsCT. com is introducing the first of its free programs focused on the movie series, The Truth About Cancer: A Global Quest. Episodes two through nine will be shown in March and April on Wednesdays at 7pm at the offices of AcupunctureHealingCT.com in Norwalk. In the documentary series, viewers follow Ty Bollinger, who lost his mother, father and five other family members to cancer, as he sits down with doctors, researchers, experts and survivors to find out their proven methods for preventing and treating cancer. The episodes to be shown by FreeFilmsCT.com include: • March 2: Cancer Facts and Fictions, Breast Cancer, Hormones, Skin Cancer & Essential Oils • March 9: Cancer-Killing Viruses, Cancer Stem Cells, GMOs, Juicing & Eating the Rainbow • March 16: Excitotoxins that Fuel Cancer, Nature’s Pharmacy and Healing Cancer with Sound & Light • March 23: Cancer Causing Blind Spots, Toxic Vac- cines, Homeopathy & The Power of Emotions • March 30: The NOCEBO Effect, Healing Vaccines, Advanced Detoxing & Going Inside A German Cancer Clinic • April 6: Heal Cancer with Clean Electricity, Unique Water, Natural Sunlight & Combining Superfoods • April 13: Episode 8: Cannabis, Nature’s Epigenetic Switches, Peptides & Healing with Micronutrient Therapy • April 20: Cancer Conquerors & Their Powerful Stories of Victory Seating and parking is limited for these free screenings but additional parking is available in the Interstate 95 commuter lot located off of Exit 16’s southbound exit. For reservations, email JEisemann2@gmail.com or text 203-216-2548. Walk-in attendees are welcome depending on space. For more information on the series, visit CancerTutor.com/Global-Cancer-Documentary. Location: AcupunctureHealingCT.com, 166 East Ave, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. See ad, page 28.

Life is 10 percent what happens to you and 90 percent how you react to it. ~Charles R. Swindoll

Integrative Medicine and Wellness Services at New Milford Hospital 21 Elm Street, New Milford, CT

Reflexology and Massage Therapy

Gabrielle Cronin, LMT Reflexology $25/30 mins. Massage $45/45 mins. 860-210-5349

Strong Women Strong Bones™

Lisa Marie Lee, Certified Instructor $85/7 week session 860-614-1737

Hypnotherapy

Alexandra Chalif, MS, MP $40/30 minutes 203-910-7878

Stress Reduction and Relaxation Training

Veronica Kleeman $60/75 minute session One-on-one or group 860-567-4384

(Pay by cash or check at class)

Therapeutic Touch, Reiki Marcia Engle, QTTP $22/30 mins. 203-376-2703

Please call in credit card payment to 860-210-5349 or pay in person at the NMH Gift Shop at least 24 hours in advance.

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March 2016

newsbriefs The Center for Natural Medicine

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

• Men’s Health • Erectile Dysfunction • Prostate Disorders • Anxiety and Depression • Autoimmune Disease • Weight Loss

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

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

Dr. Ellen Lewis

Medical Director

p 203.916.4600 f 203.916.4601

www.ShalvaClinic.org Info@ShalvaClinic.org

Naturopathic Medicine • Massage Therapy Classes & Workshops

Dr. Guerin introduces...

The Acu-Thin program Hunger Stops, Weight Drops, Almost Magic The Acu - Thin program is a system of weight loss based on the principle of auriculotherapy (ear acupuncture) used to decrease the desire for food. It can be done with needles “I can now fit into or without needles.

those clothes that I was keeping in the back of my closet & feel more confident because I know I look better as a thinner me! Thank you for this program.” Janice B.

New Vitamin Line Launched By Norwalk Practitioner

ssociates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care’s Mark Joachim, a chiropractor with 26 years of experience, has developed a new line of vitamins called Key Essential Nutrients. All of the vitamins are sourced, tested and approved by Joachim and his team of researchers. They are being offered to Joachim’s patients and will not be sold in retail locations or through online stores. “There have been numerous news stories about problems with supplements particularly with the quantity and quality of ingredients used in the manufacturing process. As you can imagine through my 26 years of being in practice, I have seen and used many different nutritional products; some good, some not so good, some cheap and some very expensive. This was always of great concern to me and this is what led me on my quest to develop a line which I know and trust because I have seen the quality control reports of the ingredients being used,” explains Joachim. Key Essential Nutrients all natural supplements are free of gluten and dairy and have undergone comprehensive testing for toxins and contaminants. They are manufactured in an FDA-inspected facility and are Good Manufacturing Practice-certified supplements. Joachim now offers the “2nd Opinion Consultation”. In this 40-minute consultation, you will discuss your health history and concerns, review your most recent blood work results along with the vitamins you are currently taking, and make any necessary recommendations to improve your health. To schedule the consultation, call 203-838-1555. For more information on Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care, visit CTChiropractic.com. Location: 156 East Ave, Norwalk. See ad, page 13.

First Treatment only $49 Offer expires 5/31/16

For a confidential appointment call our office

Dr. Patrick J. Guerin D.C., F.I.A.M.A. 256 Post Road East, Wesport, CT 06880 203-227-4474 • www.acuthin.com

Fairfield County Edition

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Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, “What are you doing for others?” ~Martin Luther King, Jr.

Parent-Child Classes at Nature School

Kindred Spirits

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

A Center for the Mind, Body, & Soul

203-938-3690 N. Lalor Photography

www.kindredspiritscenter.com 59 Ledgewood Road, Redding, CT 06896

estbrook Nature School’s Spring Parent-Child Classes will begin on March 16 and 17. The parent-toddler groups are for parents and caregivers with children from birth to three years of age. The groups meet once a week for two hours, providing socialization and acclimating children to the school in preparation for preschool and kindergarten experiences. It also gives parents an opportunity to meet other parents in the area and discuss parenting issues. Children engage in free play in either outdoor or indoor spaces while parents and caregivers have the option to make a seasonal craft. The class includes a teacher-led circle time with movement, songs and finger plays as well as organic snacks and a nature walk. Westbrook Nature School provides an early childhood, nature-based curriculum set on six acres featuring trails, streams, meadows, an organic garden and natural playscapes. The school also offers parent-child classes, mixed-age kindergarten, playdays and seasonal events, in addition to adult workshops on parenting, nutrition, arts/crafts and nature. On May 1 from 11am to 1pm, Westbrook will host its annual May Fair & Spring Open House. For more information, visit WestbrookNatureSchool.org, email Info@WestbrookNatureSchool.org or call 203-664-1554. Location: Westbrook Nature School, 7 Long Ridge Rd, West Redding. See ad, page 29.

Westport Rolfing®

Ageless Posture, Freedom of Movement Improving body alignment and function through soft tissue manipulation and movement education. • Decrease chronic pain, muscle tension and stress. • Create overall ease and balance throughout the entire body. Offices in Westport and Fairfield, CT • www.westportrolfing.com Sachi Nakayama Certified Advanced Rolfer 203-216-9720 sachi@westportrolfing.com

Mikel Bensend Certified Advanced Rolfer 203-216-9770 mikel@westportrolfing.com

The flower in the vase smiles, but no longer laughs. ~Malcolm de Chazal

eNaturalAwakenings.com

March 2016

Jill Badyrka, MFT & Reiki Master Marriage & Family Therapy for Families, Children, Couples, and Individuals Specializing in Trauma, Parent-Child Relationships, Divorce, Life-Coaching

In-Home, Holistic and Strength-Based In-Home Services Inspire Healing Balanced with Client Well-Being and Comfort Now Accepting Saturday Appointments for Therapy and Reiki Phone: 203-218-0194

Email: jbadyrkamft@gmail.com

Salt Therapy and Wellness Center

Getting to the Core of Natural Recovery 787 Main Street South • Woodbury 203.586.1172 • www.NaturalSaltHealing.com

Calling All Farmers, Gardeners, Landscapers & Foodies!

Creating an Organic CT Since 1982

2016

2016 Winter Conference March 12 & 13 Western Connecticut State University Danbury, Connecticut

Keynote: Travis Marcotte

newsbriefs The Clean Bedroom Improves Online Shopping Experience

n response to an ever-changing marketplace, The Clean Bedroom unveiled in February a newly revamped website. The fresh, clean looking site (TheCleanBedroom. com) is a responsive design to attract mobile shoppers, and includes a financing program to break purchases up into smaller, easier-to-afford installments. Additionally, the shopping cart will be managed via Magento, an e-commerce platform. Also on tap for The Clean Bedroom in 2016: shorter lead times on top selling mattresses; a Staff Picks program, whereby staff favorites are highlighted; and scouting new locations for the newest showroom. The Clean Bedroom currently has sleep showrooms in Kittery and Portland, Maine; Wellesley, Massachusetts; Greenwich, Connecticut; and Manhattan, New York, where customers can test-drive (or test-nap) a clean, nontoxic, natural mattress. The company researches each mattress brand they recommend; in most cases, owners Chris Chamberlin and Ted Duquette have visited the factories to ensure the product meets or exceeds their high standards. Online, on the phone, and in each showroom, the company’s trained mattress specialists help match customers with their ideal natural mattress. For more information, visit TheCleanBedroom.com. Greenwich showroom location: 79 East Putnam Ave, Greenwich. 203-292-9275. See ad, page 5.

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SATURDAY: Enjoy 60+ Workshops, Vendors, Keynote Speaker, Raffle, and a Gourmet Lunch SUNDAY: In-depth Classes on Getting Started in Organic Farming, Intensive Veggie Growing & Much More!

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Crystal Visions

For a World of Peace & Blessings Spiritual Counseling & Novelties

860-210-9897

www.CrystalVisionsCT.com

New Reiki Practitioner Joins Monroe Center

he Center for Natural Healing in Monroe welcomes Reiki practitioner Suzanne Vick to their team of healing practitioners. A musician by trade, she has been teaching voice and performance to children and adults for the past 12 years and expanded upon her desire to help others through energy healing. Vick is a certified Reiki master teacher and has been practicing Reiki for more than Suzanne Vick two years. Under the direction of Tina Zigo, ND, and Joseph Gariepy, ND, The Center of Natural Healing offers a variety of holistic and alternative healing therapies including acupuncture, homeopathy, botanical medicine, nutrition and lifestyle counseling, Reiki and medical diagnostics. Holistic pediatrics is also available. Conveniently located on Route 25 in Monroe, The Center is open daily except Wednesdays and Sundays and is currently accepting new patients. For more information, visit CtrNaturalHealing.com or call 203-268-1336. Location: The Center of Natural Healing, 188 Main St, Ste E, Monroe.

Crystal Healing Training in Bridgeport

unter Healing Hands will be hosting group class dates for the Crystal Healing Intensive Practitioner Certification program in April in Bridgeport. In addition to group training dates, this program is also available individually by private appointment. This World Metaphysical Association-accredited program is for those drawn to learn and work with crystals and crystal healing Jessica Hunter for self-practice or professional use. The four-day intensive program includes a set of healing crystals and certification upon completion of the $1200 program. It offers a variety of crystal healing teachings as to how crystals work, how to connect with them, cleanse them, work with them as healing tools, and use them in complete healing sessions. The Crystal Healing Intensive Practitioner Certification program was founded by Jessica Hunter, who has 25 years experience in crystals and crystal healing. For more information, visit HunterHealingHands.com, email HunterHealingHands@hotmail.com or call 203-916-8381. Location: Hunter Healing Hands, 215 Harbor Ave, Bridgeport. See ad, page 20.

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March 2016

newsbriefs 7eFit Spa OpenSachs HouseSpeaks Author Robert in Weston Stamford in

obert Sachs, authortamford of The has a Ecology of Oneness,new will option speak for those about beckoning a spiritual seeking translook and feel formation of globaltomagnitude their best during on April 5 at 7pm ™ at The Liphe the holiday seaBalance Center of Weston. Sachs son and beyond. 7eFit Spa has opened on High Ridge Road, is a practitioner of Tibetan Budoffering a variety of aesthetic services and non-invasive techdhism, but his book is informed by niques to support mind and body wellness. An open house teachings from renowned masters is scheduled for November from 22 from noon and to 7pm. all faiths traditions. In The The regular service offerings—which will be Sachs available as Ecology of Oneness, speaks Relax while our sessions technology brief demonstration during the open house—include awakening in a free world . about does the work anti-aging and oxygen facials with oxygen therapy, Plus bioRobert Sachs beyond religious, racialTorc or social Noelectric surgery or invasive stimulation for procedures. targeted muscle activation (also available differences. Infrared Sauna therapy) • Micro-dermabrasion oxygen and weight loss, infrared sauna for detoxifi with“We live in a melting pot world where competing Myolift • Torc • the Body Waxing personal weight loss program. cation, Reiki and DietMaster worldviews and paradigms contribute to and are also the Diet Master • Oxygen Bar • Reiki The Plus has been FDA-cleared and is known to be victim ofTorc collapsing social and political infrastructures. Add Dermalogica Facials • Oxygen Facialstoning, cellulite reduction effective for muscle tightening, to this undeniable climate change and the result is global Whitening and inchTeeth loss. turbulence manifesting as environmental degradation, Save Tracey Now with Scalzi, a long-time Stamford resident wars,Founder terrorism, growing fundamentalisms, pandemics, and Introductory Prices! and business owner, decided to open 7eFitSpa because increasing levels of despair and anxiety. Yet, there is alsoshe Call 203-356-5822 wanted a what new business dedicated to helping people look emerging could best be described as a growing tribe of and feel their best. The spa had a soft opening in Juneofbut conscious, individuals united in recognition the 1092 High engaged Ridge Road | Stamford, CT 06905 was fully operational equipment services avail7efitspact1@gmail.com | all www.7efitspa.com interdependency of allwith sentient life and a and vision of sustainable inrooted mid-September. ability in eco-sensitivity,” says Sachs. The fee for the event is $15 per person. For more information, visit 7eLLC.com and visit the Stamford emailLipheBalance@gmail.com 7eFitSpaCT1@gmail.com or or call call To reservelocation, a spot, email 203-356-5822. Location: 1092 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-912-2791. Location: The Liphe Balance Center of (inside Salon Cheveaux). ad, page 15. Weston, 36 Michaels Way,See Weston.

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New Coaching Practice Offers Shamanic Healing Retreat Spiritual Guidance in Redding

bove and oin shamanic practitioners and Below Guidteachers Deana Paqua and Jessica ance, launched Hunter for a day of shamanic healing in January by for gratitude, transformation, abunSandy Bonola dance, discovery and enlightenment. and Aaron This all-day healing retreat is open Saramak, ofto anyone and all levels who wish fers a blend of to learn more about shamanism and life coaching shamanic healing practices and techand spiritual guidance to provide into guidance on everyday niques that can be incorporated Deana Paqua life challenges and growth opportunities. daily life for transformation and posi- The practice also offers a specialThe focus on relationship to improve tive changes. event will be held coaching at existing relationships or create Center a fulfilling relationship. The the sanctuary at The Redding spiritual guidance focus discovering your sacred for Meditation on services November 14on from contract—which 10am to 5pm. allows you to manage and define your life purpose and make better choices. Bonola and Saramak’s A variety of techniques and teachspiritual exploration focuses on developing a ings willdirection be incorporated throughout spiritual intuitivejourney skill set as well as guidance on the day, practice includingand shamanic managing light and dark energy experiences. work, shamanic ceremonies, crystal healing, Upcoming and Below Guidance workshops variousAbove spirit medicine healing include Spiritual Experiences. Have for you ever had an experiteachings and shamanic techniques Jessica Hunter ence of the realm” and feared being told you are clearing and“other manifestation practices. crazy? Do you question these experiences and Paqua and Hunter bring what a unique and informativemean combinahow doshamanic you gain healing an understanding of them? Taking place tion of and teachings to their gatherings. on March at 7pm, this 90-minute will discuss Paqua24 specializes in Andean andworkshop South American shathese in detail as well as help gain clearer manicexperiences traditions, while Hunter focuses on you North American understanding of suchTogether, experiences. It will beeducational held at Dragshamanic traditions. they provide and onfly Healingshamanic Arts, located at 8 Wickett Street, Newa Hartinspirational gatherings that encompass variety ford. The workshop fee is $15 per person. of teachings and a global connection of a variety of Shamanic Healing practices. For more information, visit AboveandBelowGuidance.com, email AboveandBelowGuidance@gmail.com or call For more information, visit EmbodytheSacred.net and 860-707-6586. HunterHealingHands.com. See ads, pages 10 and 20.

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CT School of Herbal & Energetic Studies Announces Programs; New Apothecary Hours

n March 13 from 1-4pm, Introduction to Ayurveda with Ilana Sobo will explore the ancient healing practice of Ayurveda. In this introductory class, you will become familiar with the working language of Ayurveda and the doshas, and learn simple techniques to help you balance your constitution naturally. Ayurveda uses herbs, diet, yoga, meditation, lifestyle practices and more to help achieve optimal wellness through simple daily practices. Email TwinstarHerbInfo@gmail.com to register for the $65 class. The Flower Essence Emersion Program with Ruth Greenberg will meet twice a month beginning March 7 from 6 to 8:30pm. The six-month program will deepen knowledge of flower essences by working with one flower essence each month. Topics will include an overview of each essence, a guided flower essence meditation, personal affirmations, experience discussions, chakra and flower essence connections, and more. This class will be taught by Ruth Greenberg, who received her flower essence practitioner certification from Twin Star Herbals in January. The dates, topics, flower essences and chakras are as follows: • March 7 and 21: Anxiety reduction, mimulus, root chakra • April 4 and 18: Manifestation, cayenne, sacral chakra • May 2 and 16: Self-love, sunflower, solar plexus chakra • June 6 and 20: Grief and loss, borage, heart chakra • July 11 and 25: Development of hope, gorse, throat chakra • August 1 and 15: Connection to sprit, angelica, third eye and crown chakras Connecticut’s School of Herbal & Energetic Studies has also launched new apothecary hours. Drop in on Fridays between 11am and 4pm at 65 Bank Street, New Milford (across from the coffee shop) to shop a variety of items from bulk herbs to tinctures and more. Staff will be on hand to blend flower essences and teas to your liking. For more information, visit TwinStarHerbal.com. Location: Connecticut’s School of Herbal & Energetic Studies, 65 Bank St, New Milford.

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New Practitioner Joins Circle for Life Midwifery

ircle for Life Your Partners in Midwifery has Health and Wellness. added a new certified Your Partners in

Health and in Wellness. Your Partners and Wellness. The UB Clinics, located on the campus of theHealth University of Bridgeport, are staffed by some of the brightest and most talented healthcare professionals of the future. Open to The UBthe Clinics, located on theaffordable, campus of the University of Bridgeport, are staffed the public, UB Clinics offer high quality care at a fraction of theby cost of some of and most talented professionals of thearefuture. to Thethe UBbrightest Clinics, located on the campushealthcare of the University of Bridgeport, staffedOpen by comparable treatments elsewhere. some of brightest mostaffordable, talented healthcare professionals future. of Open the public, thetheUB Clinicsand offer high quality care atofathe fraction thetocost of the public, the UB Clinics offer affordable, high quality care at a fraction of the cost of comparable treatments elsewhere.

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nurse midwife to its practice. Jemine L. Wayman, CNM, DNP, comes to the Shelton midwifery office with more than nine years of experience. “I have decided to relocate to Connecticut to allow me the opportunity to be closer to family while sharing my expertise and experience with women in a community that I have been a part of since childhood,” says Wayman, a native of Bridgeport and a nurse midwifery graduate of University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. Circle for Life Midwifery offers midwifery services, natural childbirth, well woman care and holistic gynecology to woman of all ages. Nutritional, homeopathic, herbal and lifestyle recommendations are an element of the patient consultation. The practice was founded by Sarah Najamy, CNM, and Paula Cate, CNM—with their decades of experience both in obstetrics and well women gynecology—to provide the clinical direction for the new St. Vincent’s Medical Centers Natural Child Birth Center, located in Bridgeport. It incorporates one-on-one care by the certified nurse midwives, water birth and a private home-like center with early discharge also an option. In alignment with Circle for Life Midwifery’s mission, Wayman believes “in empowering women, by providing them with education, guidance and the necessary tools that will enable them to make appropriate decisions conducive to their lifestyles.”

annreevespsych@optonline.net • www.annreevespsychology.com Offices in Newtown & Wilton, CT natural awakenings

Nurse Practitioner Offers Concierge IM Services

argaret Romero, NP-C, an Ivy League-trained, board certified nurse practitioner, is bringing concierge or boutique medicine to the homes and offices of Fairfield County residents. Her expertise in integrative/functional medicine enables her to offer services such as plant-based, bio-identical hormone therapy or weight loss counseling. IV vitamin Margaret Romero therapy will be coming soon as well. Romero uses testing to identify conditions and nutritional deficiencies that may have never been previously discovered. Once identified, those issues can be addressed using a host of modalities and options. Romero has a medical practice in New York City and teaches integrative medicine at Columbia University. Areas available for her concierge service are Fairfield, Westport, Darien, New Canaan and Norwalk. Contact the office for a complimentary 15-minute session. A free 60-minute webinar, Learn the One Thing That is Keeping You from Overcoming Your Autoimmune Disorder, will be offered on March 22 at 8pm. More details are available at MargaretRomero.com. For more information, visit MargaretRomero.com. To schedule a complimentary session or an appointment, call 347948-8810 or email Info@MargaretRomero.com.

Monthly Meditations Hosted in New Milford

n the fourth Monday of each month from 7 to 8pm, a Global Healing Meditations class will be held by Ancient Luna Healing’s Alexandra Catchpole at Enchanted Realms in New Milford. Global Healing Meditations focus on sending healing energy to those who need it around the globe. Each class will focus on one particular cause that will generally be related to a prominent issue in the news. The goal is to help raise the energy and help those in need heal on a deeper, spiritual level. These meditations provide a way for those who wish to help, with an alternative, meaningful outlet in which they can do so. Past meditations have focused on the ocean, those who have been negatively impacted by improper gun use in America, Paris and the Syrian crisis. A donation of $5 is suggested. Alexandra Catchpole, a Reiki master and shamanic practitioner, is the owner of Ancient Luna Healing and director of the Housatonic Natural Wellness Fair. For more information, visit Facebook.com/Ancient LunaHealing and AncientLunaHealing.com, email Info@AncientLunaHealing.com or call 860-350-3898. Location: Enchanted Realms, 285 Litchfield Rd (Rte 202), New Milford.

Photos by Phyllis Meredith Photography

Two Coyotes Wilderness School offers extraordinary Summer Camps and year round Wilderness Programs for kids 1-14 years old. Kids will learn how to: • • • •

Build fires Make shelters & forts Create nature art Gather wild edibles

• Perform in wild theater • Connect more meaningfully to people & nature

Two Coyotes also offers… • • • • • •

Homeschool, afterschool & weekend programs Adult & family programs Coyote Pups (parent & child program for ages 1-4 & their guardian) Birthday parties & family events Two Coyotes Wilderness School field trips and in school programs Scholarships and tuition assistance for families in need

Learn more! Email info@TwoCoyotes.org or visit www.TwoCoyotes.org.

DON’T MISS OUR FREE FAMILY FUN DAY “OPEN HOUSE” EVENT IN NEWTOWN! Saturday, April 16th from 1-4 pm Sticks and Stones Farm 201 Huntingtown Road, Newtown, CT

Family Nature Activities, Arts & Crafts, Games, Live Music & Food Camp staff and alumni will be on hand to answer any questions.

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March 2016

newsbriefs Save the Date for Coalition of Co-Creators Event

on and Victoria Friedman, co-founders of Vistar Foundation, initiated The Coalition of Co-Creators in 2015, bringing together a diverse group of individuals and organizations from Connecticut, New York and New Jersey who are dediVictoria & Ron Friedman cated to promoting intercommunity holistic culture. The group’s mission is co-creating events, promoting community messages, and collaborating with the global movement for a shift in consciousness. The Coalition of Co-Creators launch event will take place on May 14 from 10:45am-5pm in Stamford (location TBA). “More than ever, we are convinced about humanity's capacity for real change that will end violence, suffering and injustice. Even at our most skeptical moments, we still long for a world that works for everyone,” the Friedmans say about the coalition and the Change-Changing-Changed launch event. The event is cosponsored by Total Life Care Center and Natural Awakenings Fairfield County. Vistar Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to collective consciousness and educating the public about the many conscious and holistic approaches available for improving well-being and connection. For more information or to get involved with the coalition and the launch event, visit Coalition of Co-Creators on Facebook or contact Victoria Friedman at Info@VistarFoundation.org or 203-322-8974.

Integrative Medicine Physician Establishes Consultative Service

s a primary care physician for more than 14 years, Yufang Lin, M.D., has seen the deep impact of chronic illness on many people’s lives. Lin transitioned from primary care and last fall she established WCMG Integrative Medicine as a consultation service in New Canaan and New Fairfield for patients twoyears old and up. She continues to participate in most insurance plans. Yufang Lin “Most people have lived feeling poorly for so long, they have forgotten how it feels to be well,” says Lin. “You are not your disease,” she says. “You have the power to heal yourself by making some simple but profound changes.” Lin is board certified in internal medicine and pediatrics, and with the American Board of Holistic and Integrative Medicine. She is trained in integrative medicine and functional medicine, as well as herbal medicine, homeopathy, mind and body, Reiki and qigong healing. Her diverse training allows her to integrate different healing modalities into a personalized plan for her clients, which may include lifestyle and nutritional modification, stress management, herbs and supplements, homeopathy, exercise recommendations and more. She has seen great improvements in conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, foggy brain, metabolic syndrome, chronic fatigue syndrome, ADHD and anxiety, to name a few. “The earlier we intervene in the disease process, the better the outcome,” says Lin. For more information, visit WCMGIntegrativeMedicine.org or call 203-920-1633. Locations: 173 East Ave, New Canaan, and 96 Rte 37, New Fairfield.

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Combating Nature Deficit Disorder

Nature Schools Collaborate to Create Connections

by Melissa Lopata

oday, many children and adults suffer from what nature-focused author Richard Louv calls “nature-deficit disorder”—a reduced awareness and diminished ability to find meaning in the life around us. Nature connection leaders are poised to be societal game changers as the importance of the nature connection for families becomes more crucial now more than ever. At the end of January, a three-day gathering of Northeast wilderness and nature connection school leaders occurred, spearheaded by David Brownstein, co-founder and executive director of Wild Earth (WildEarth.org) in New Paltz, New York. There is a reawakening in society to the importance of nature as a tool for education, for human connection to self and others, and for psychological health. Brownstein’s goal in organizing the event was to collaborate with other local nature organizations to help strengthen this mutual mission and create a regenerative culture bound by deep nature connection; one where human needs are interwoven with the rhythms and needs of the natural place in which they live. Other key nature school executive directors in the region were invited to help forge this vision of a conference that would lead to ongoing collaboration among nature organizations. These included: Angella Gibbons, founder and director of EarthWalk Vermont in Plainfield, Vermont (EarthWalkVermont.org); Justin Pegnataro, executive director of Two Coyotes Wilderness School in Newtown, Connecticut (TwoCoyotes.org); and Saskia Vanderhoop, founding director of Sassafras Earth Ed. in Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts (SassafrasMVy.org).

Together, these leaders produced and hosted the three-day gathering in New York’s Hudson Valley. Forty-three leaders from 19 nature connection schools attended to support growing nature connection visions into successful, economically viable and regenerative businesses. The schools represented were: Wild Earth, White Pine Programs, Two Coyotes Wilderness School, Numina, Wolf Tree Programs, Primitive Pursuits, Earth Living Skills, EarthWalk Vermont, Children of the Earth, Vermont Wilderness School, Earth Arts, Full Moon Girls, Crow’s Path Inc, Wildhood, Vermont Art of Mentoring, Sassafras Earth Ed, Carp Ridge EcoWellness and Merrohawke. The nature connection leaders that attended this first conference left inspired and with a renewed commitment to be catalysts in their communities. They re-energized themselves by sharing inspiring stories and uplifting songs, brainstorming together, meditating, and wandering the foothills of the Shawangunk Ridge. As a group, they took time

to remember and rekindle the original visions for their schools, and reflect on their triumphs and challenges. A few weeks after the event, the schools continued to honor the transparency and shared values that were cultivated during the gathering. A shared open source database and a social media forum have been created to continue to share knowledge and data, and to strengthen the connection of these schools. Shortly after the event, Brownstein reached out to each school/ organization that attended the gathering. He asked that each consider reaching out toward another one and arranging a staff visit. “This can be program staff visiting another school’s program staff or administrative staff visiting with another school’s administrative staff. Or, it can be both,” Brownstein told them. The hope is to help all nature connection organizations identify and re-vision core parts of their curriculum or marketing/business development plans. Their shared philosophy around nature connection is very aligned with this collaborative model in which questions become journeys of awareness and explorations of interrelationship. For more information, email Info@ TwoCoyotes.org or visit TwoCoyotes.org. Two Coyotes Wilderness School will host a free Family Fun Day Open House on Saturday, April 16 from 1-4pm. To RSVP for the event, visit TwoCoyotesNewtownFamilyFun. eventbrite.com. Location: Sticks and Stones Farm, 201 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown. Melissa Lopata is marketing director of Two Coyotes Wilderness School. Connect with her at Info@TwoCoyotes.org. See ad, page 15.

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The MELT Method Improves Chronic Pain and Tension

he original painting on the front cover, titled “Channeling Georgia”, was created by Greer Jonas with acrylic paint on wood canvas (24 “ h. x 20”w). It is inspired by Georgia O’Keefe as her muse. The painting emerged from a beautiful garden scene and transformed on canvas into a heartfelt and sensual experience for painter and viewer. Greer is a numerologist, painter, sculptor and teacher living in New York City. Her paintings vary between abstracts and landscapes using acrylic or oil paints and mixed media. Her works have shown in various shows, galleries and private collections in New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts and California. Greer teaches classes in numerology and creativity at the Lotus Wellness Center. She is also available for numerology readings.

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ue Hitzmann, MS, CST, NMT, was healthy and at the height of her fitness career when she began experiencing chronic pain. Only in her twenties, she learned the hard way that exercise, muscular strength and diet are not the foundation of a pain-free body. Even the most prominent doctors and physical therapists could not find a solution to relieving her pain. With her career and quality of life in decline, Hitzmann was determined to find a solution so she could continue living an active, pain-free life. Through her personal exploration in her personal practice with fascia (connective tissue) and its ability to be adaptable and renewable, Hitzmann created and developed The MELT Method (MELT). It’s a simple self-treatment technique based on the principles that a balanced nervous system and healthy connective tissue work together to provide the body with architectural support and optimal mind-body communication. As seen on The Dr. Oz Show, Rachael Ray and Nightline, MELT is a simple self-treatment technique that reduces chronic pain and helps you stay healthy, youthful and active. Using specialized techniques, a soft body roller and four different small balls, MELT rehydrates the connective tissue, rebalances the nervous system and restores space to compressed joints. Ten minutes of MELT is recommended three times a week to reduce the effects of accumulated tension and stress caused by daily living. The method can help improve ailments such as chronic pain, joint compression, posture, digestion, sleep problems, stress and anxiety. Hitzmann, author of the The MELT Method: A Breakthrough Self-Treatment System to Eliminate Chronic Pain, Erase the Signs of Aging, and Feel Fantastic in Just 10 Minutes a Day!, is a New York City-based educator, manual therapist, connective tissue specialist, exercise physiologist, and founding member of the Fascial Research Society. For more information, visit MELTMethod.com. Kristen Hallett Rzasa of InterPlay Health, LLC is a MELT facilitator in Fairfield County. Connect with her at Interplayhealth.com or 203-554-5924.

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Do Children and Synthetic Turf Mix?

by Ellen Weininger ntensive sports programs at schools and in local communities are driving the demand for sports fields, and many communities are considering artificial turf installations. Today’s synthetic turf field is typically filled with crumb rubber from more than 40,000 tires. This recycled rubber contains high levels of toxic substances that prohibit its disposal in landfills and oceans. Recent studies conducted in Connecticut and New York have confirmed the presence of hazardous materials on existing fields, including arsenic, cadmium, chromium, cobalt, lead, acetone, ethylbenzene, tetrachloroethene, toluene, xylene and phthalates. The volatility of some of these chemicals can be significantly increased by high temperatures recorded at field level. The potential health effects of exposure to these chemicals—including endocrine disruption, neurological impairment and cancer—can take years to develop. Without longterm field testing, no one is in a position to say the exposure is harmless, particularly for children, a uniquely vulnerable population. Recently there have been reports of higher-thanusual cases of lymphoma and leukemia among athletes using synthetic turf fields, especially soccer goalies. To date there have been no studies to confirm a link, but shouldn’t common sense and the precautionary principle prevail? There are other problems that also require consideration. For example, cleaning synthetic turf can require strong chemicals, and body fluid spills are especially challenging. There are no practical solutions for the disposal of artificial turf fields, and their installation means the loss of environmentally beneficial natural grass fields, which sequester carbon dioxide and reduce global warming. Ellen Weininger is the director of educational outreach for Grassroots Environmental Education. For more information about that organization and its mission, visit GrassrootsInfo.org.

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March 2016

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

Corporate Conscience

Unilever Reduces its Carbon Footprint

Colleges and universities are changing how they purchase and prepare food in their dining halls to provide students healthy, sustainable meal options, with many of them working to source food locally. American University, in Washington, D.C., purchases more than a third of the food served in its cafeterias within 250 miles of its campus. McGill University, in Montreal, spends 47 percent of its food budget on produce from its own campus farm and growers within 300 miles. Middlebury College, in Vermont, partners with seasonal local vendors, including those operating its own organic farm. Taking it a step further, Boston University cafeterias serve meal options that include organic, fair trade, free-range, vegetarian-fed, hormone- and antibioticfree, sustainably harvested food items to students. Cornell University composts about 850 tons of food waste from its dining halls each year. At Duke University, surplus food is donated to food banks, and both pre- and post-consumer scraps are composted. Other steps include the University of California, Berkeley’s new Global Food Initiative to address food security in a way that’s both nutritious and sustainable, and efforts at the University of Illinois to recycle cooking oil for biodiesel production.

Consumer goods giant Unilever has pledged to eliminate coal from its energy usage within five years and derive all of its energy worldwide solely from renewable sources by 2030. The company will become carbon-positive through the use of renewable resources and by investing in generating more renewable energy than it needs, selling the surplus and making it available to local communities in areas where it operates. About 40 percent of the company’s energy use currently comes from green sources. Paul Polman, company chairman, says the goal is “really doable.” He cites a new factory in China powered by wind and solar energy and a Paris office building that already contributes green electricity to the power grid.

Source: EcoWatch.com

Source: The Guardian

Food Fight

College Cafeterias Lead the Way in Sustainable Eating

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he Connecticut law governing the practice of naturopathic medicine was passed 90 years ago and has not kept pace with advances made by other states. The Naturopathic Practice Act Modernization 2016 seeks to update the Scope of Practice definition to be consistent with standards already legislated in other states that license naturopathic physicians. Specifically, the act would allow naturopathic physicians (NDs) the same prescriptive authority consistent with many other states that license NDs. The prescriptive authority language submitted to the Public Health Committee (PHC) is currently being reviewed and a public hearing should be scheduled in March for the bill. Those in favor of NDs being able to prescribe, please reach out to your town’s legislators—especially if they are on the PHC—and ask them to not only support the bill, but vote yes to get it passed out of the committee. Updating the Connecticut Naturopathic Practice Act enables NDs to serve their Connecticut patients’ primary care needs consistent with their ND training and education. The Act would also serve to retain vitally needed primary care doctors. This expansion would enhance the ability of NDs and MDs to develop integrated practices, an approach that is common in other states with modernized scope of practice laws. These integrated practices are attractive to patients because they combine both the acute interventions of allopathic medicine with the longerterm restorative strategies of naturopathic medicine and holistic medicine. Consistent with other states, the act includes refresher pharmacology training and examinations to ensure consistency of knowledge, dosing and safe prescribing for the pharmaceutical component of this scope of practice change.

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For links to supportive documents about how to connect with your legislators, go to CNPAonline.org/2015/01/how-why-tospeak-with-your-legislator/. eNaturalAwakenings.com

March 2016

communityspotlight

Covered’ campaign highlights the power for this one principle of organic farming—keeping the soil covered—to both combat climate change and improve the health of the soil.” Keeping it covered explains how farmers can make relatively simple changes in the way they work their fields. By adding cover crops after the harvest, more moisture is retained, the biodiversity of the soil is improved, and the carbon content of the soil increases dramatically. Increasing the carbon content of soil is a key, but often overlooked, component of soil fertility. Carbon-rich soil feeds critical microbes and helps retain moisture, allowing everything to grow much better, and ultimately creating more nutrient-dense foods. “Increasing soil carbon by 1 percent would allow a farmer to retain 16,000 more gallons of water per acre than typical farming practices make possible,” Cordulack explains. “The benefits of this for all farmers are obvious. We are very excited about reaching out to the 4,000 plus farms in Connecticut and helping them to adopt similar practices that will have a huge impact on their success as a farmer and health of the world.” It may sound grandiose, but research shows he’s not overstating the importance of the soil carbon restoration process. All agricultural production begins with plant photosynthesis, using sunshine to combine carbon dioxide (CO2) from the air with water and minerals from the soil to produce plant material, above and below the ground. Common agricultural practices, which include frequent plowing, result in the loss by Nicole Miale of carbon from the soil, interruption of the natural biosystem and return of CO2 to the air. It is estimated that one third of the he Northeast Farming Association (NOFA) was founded in excess CO2 in the atmosphere driving climate change today 1982 as a nonprofit organization dedicated to promotingGREAT stems from land management practices. Raising awareness NICE PEOPLE MUSIC UPLIFITING EXPERIENCE healthy food, organic farming practices and a clean enabout this connection and educating farmers about alternative, INSPIRATIONAL MESSAGE POSSIBILITIES vironment. The Connecticut chapter, known as CT NOFA, has healthier farmingLIMITLESS practices is Cordulack’s passion. taken an active leadership role in the community for decades “If all agricultural practices were switched to organic, we through comprehensive educational and certification programs could reverse climate change within five years,” Cordulack says. NICE PEOPLE GREAT MUSIC for farmers, gardeners and land care professionals along with “Organic agriculture is one of the best tools we have available to UPLIFITING EXPERIENCE conferences and workshops for the greater organic community. reverse the damage that’s been done and prevent further damage INSPIRATIONAL MESSAGE CT NOFA’s new Executive Director, Jeffrey Cordulack, is excitto the environment. Adopting organic approaches would have LIMITLESS POSSIBILITIES ed to have the opportunity to further the organization’s mission an immediate impact on reversing climate change and chemical Our to insecurity.” continually discover, demon with a new “Keep it Covered” carbon farming campaign to exposure, as wellmission as relievingisfood th be unveiled at CT NOFA’s 34 Annual Winter Conference in Jack Kittredge, policy director at NOFA MASS, and educate that our source of author Goodofis God w Danbury on March 12 and 13. He explains, “Our new ‘Keep it The Natural Farmer newspaper, farmer and soil carbon seques-

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tration expert, will present a workshop on Soil Carbon Restoration at the CT NOFA Winter Conference on March 12. Kittredge has written an extensive white paper on the subject that is available for download on the CTNOFA website’s Carbon Farming page. Released in August 2015, the white paper has already been translated into multiple languages and is being studied all over the world. Cordulack believes this information is a game-changer, for farmers and for the world. “Organic agriculture and organic land care provide the solutions we’ve been looking for and I’m so excited to be a part of championing this message in Connecticut and beyond,” he says. To connect with CT NOFA, visit CTNOFA.org, email CTNOFA@ CTNOFA.org or call 203-308-2584. CT NOFA’s 34th Annual Winter Conference takes place at Western CT State University’s Midtown Campus at 181 White St, Danbury, on March 12 from 8:30am to 5pm and March 13 from 9am to 3:30pm. See ad, page 10.

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up symptoms rather than removing the cause. But there are natural solutions that can help reverse many of these debilitating problems,” says Ed Markowitz, a chiropractor in Danbury who runs an integrated medical center with chiropractors, medical doctors, a massage therapist, an acupuncturist, a nutrition consultant and a personal trainer. Traditional Western medicine, including surgery and medications, can help alleviate some of the symptoms but many drugs have side effects, stop working or can cause dependence, says Markowitz, clinical director of Physical Health and Injury Center. “With the right treatment and tools, the human body can heal itself,” he explains. “At our center, we use a variety of treatments customized for each patient.”

Personal stories of pain and relief

HEALING CHRONIC PAIN Natural Protocols Offer More than Symptomatic Relief by Angela Pascopella

iabetes, heart disease and cancer affect tens of millions of Americans and are referred to as epidemics in our country. However, as a condition, chronic pain affects more people than all three of the other diseases combined. With nearly 100 million Americans affected by chronic pain alone, the associated annual economic cost is staggering at an estimated $560-$635 billion in 2010, according a 2011 report from the Institute of Medicine of The National Academies. Affecting everything from ability to perform daily activities to sleep to overall quality of life, chronic pain often accompanies autoimmune conditions which are resistant

Fairfield County Edition

to conventional pharmacotherapeutic interventions. The statistics are bleak, but there is good news. Relief from, and even elimination of, chronic pain or illness is possible—with a limited need for medication or surgery in many cases. It requires expertise and experience with alternative natural solutions as well as persistence to find the right protocol for each individual. “Our country is suffering from an epidemic of chronic pain and disease, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, obesity and some cancers—due to our stressful lifestyles, inactivity, poor diet and standard medical treatment aimed at covering

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At the Shalva Clinic in Westport, naturopathic physician Andrew Cummins knows from personal experience how to treat and heal chronic pain. He began feeling the symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis when he was 18. The chronic inflammatory disease can result in extreme pain—especially of the spine—and can affect any organ of the body including the heart, lungs, eyes and gastrointestinal tract. He was first treated with steroids, painkillers and NSAIDs, but after about seven years they stopped working and to increase the dosage might have affected his liver. With that, Cummins searched for answers. He learned that he “didn’t understand” his body and found that “nothing happens in isolation.” There was a direct link between his pain and inflammation in his joints and gut. So if he eliminated inflammatory-creating foods—such as sugars, starches and grains—from his diet, he could starve the bacteria that thrived in his gut and caused the inflammation. His change of diet immediately showed results. “I kept experimenting,” he says. “After I cut out the foods that were part of the cause of the inflammation, I began to experience less pain and more mobility. I was extremely motivated to keep moving. Constant movement is important with this condition.”

Cummins is no longer on prescription medication and has virtually no pain. Then there is Khristee Rich, a Chakradance facilitator who has practices in Fairfield County and California. Chakradance is a free-form dance that balances chakras or vital energy pathways. Rich suddenly became ill in her 20s; she was later diagnosed with high levels of heavy metals, including mercury and lead, in her body. Her doctors said she should have suffered brain damage or been paralyzed because her levels were high. Doctors prescribed weekly chelation therapy with colonics, enemas and vitamin replacements, she recalls. Chelation therapy is a chemical process in which a synthetic solution-EDTA (ethylenediaminetetracetic acid) is injected into the bloodstream to remove heavy metals and/or minerals from the body. It was painful, costly and possibly had harmful side effects, so Rich set out to heal herself. She found natural foods and supplements to naturally chelate to heavy metals, and then draw them out of her body. She meditated daily for 20 minutes, twice a day, and walked with her dogs. At the end of a month, her levels were down to zero. “My primary care doctor told me I would never get better. If people knew how powerful our minds are and how much we can do on our own to heal and repair our hearts, minds and spirits, people would

be amazed,” Rich says. “I truly believe it was my positivity and how I trained my mind to believe I would be well that healed me.”

Combining old and new techniques

“A lot of people are experiencing chronic pain, but they are only covering up the symptoms with conventional treatment,” Cummins explains. “The cause of the inflammation and pain is never addressed so the process and damage continues whether you feel it or not. This is why we see so many other issues arise. My goal is to take the body from a place of dysfunction and to restore normal function at the cellular level. Each individual is unique in their biochemical makeup and finding the right combination of foods, nutrients and exercise depends on their metabolism, specific deficiencies, digestion, absorption, history, environment and specific condition.” When he starts working with patients, Cummins does a full assessment and uses lab tests depending on the patient and the specific condition. He might check for vitamin and mineral depletion, a detailed cardiovascular panel, heavy metals such as mercury, food sensitivities and gastrointestinal problems. “A lot of people with an autoimmune disease will have a vitamin D deficiency,” Cummins says. Vitamin D has an anti-inflammatory effect on cells and helps regulate the immune system

and diminish auto-immune reactions. Cummins analyzes stool samples of patients. “How is their digestive function? Do they have poor digestion?” he says. “Do they need pancreatic enzymes and probiotics, which can help reduce inflammation?” Foundation training is another technique for chronic pain. It’s a series of 18 exercises that strengthen the muscles of the back and hips that support the spine and reduce inflammation and/or spasms, Cummins states. Patients typically do that three times a week for 30 minutes at the clinic and see results within a few weeks to a few months. Cummins says damaged and dysfunctional mitochondria lead to inflammation. Mitochondria are often referred to as the powerhouses of our bodies’ cells; they generate the energy cells need to do their jobs. There are some micronutrients required for mitochondria to function correctly, to help control inflammation and pain— such as CoQ10, magnesium, D-ribose, alpha-lipoic acid, and the reduced form of CoQ10 ubiquinol. The services at Markowitz’s center fuse some old techniques with new ones. These include acupuncture, rehabilitative exercise, nutritional counseling and manual therapy—such as chiropractic care and therapeutic massage, including the Graston technique, which erases scars and remnants of old injuries. Trigger point injection is another service that is fairly new to the

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March 2016

field; medical doctors inject a natural plant-based, anti-inflammatory product into muscles, tendons or joints as an alternative to cortisone injections. Markowitz also uses decompression or inversion therapy to remove pressure on joints and nerves caused by arthritis and herniated discs. The experts agree that healthy diet and nutrition are key to any course of therapy to treat pain. There will be variation in the optimal diet, however, as Cummins points out that every patient is different. For example, one patient might respond better to steaming vegetables over eating raw vegetables. But increasing certain vegetables, like cauliflower and dandelion greens, certainly help the liver, and juicing a combination of celery, spinach, chard, kale, cucumber, parsley and lemon help reduce inflammation and pain, Cummins says, because they are detoxifying foods.

The role of stress reduction

Stress—whether physical, chemical or mental—is a known cause of physical pain so any mindfulness techniques or modalities which reduce stress will also likely reduce pain. Meditation techniques such as Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and conscious breathing—as in yoga—are well documented to have an overall calming effect on overtaxed and overstimulated body systems.

Some newer techniques in the United States including Vibrosaun— a heat/vibration therapy—have now also been shown in studies to reduce pain and problems associated with fibromyalgia and Lyme disease, among other conditions. Kure Spa in Norwalk offers one of the first Vibrosauns available in the United States; the machine was created in Australia and has been used for decades in Europe. “It looks like a NASA space bubble,” says Greg Lew, Kure Spa’s co-owner. A patient lies down on padded vibrating plates for 30 to 45 minutes, with the head sticking out of the bubble. Motors inside generate vibration, which helps alleviate pain in those with musculoskeletal injuries, while the interior of the Vibrosaun heats to sauna-like temperatures. The heat relaxes tension while vibrations stimulate the lymphatic system, cleaning out cellular waste from the body. “I would say this is the best non-invasive treatment for people experiencing chronic pain,” Lew says. iFloat in Westport and PuREST in Trumbull offer relief to pain sufferers in the form of floating—an hour suspended in a warm solution of water and Epsom salt so dense that patients float effortlessly. In the gravity-free environment, the body balances and heals internally as senses are rested. It is, in effect, a “reboot” for the entire nervous system, which is on perpetual high alert during chronic pain. Another modality long practiced in other countries

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around the world, but newer to the U.S., research shows floating reduces blood pressure and heart rate while lowering the amount of stress-related chemicals in the body. It helps with blood circulation and produces slower brain-waves patterns—known as theta waves—which can create creative thoughts and inspirations or feelings of peace and joy, induced by the release of endorphins.

A sample protocol

For Patrick Moore, a natural health educator and a part-time practitioner of naturopathy who teaches holistic nutrition to nurses at Yale-New Haven Hospital, three underlying conditions usually lurk in patients with chronic pain and autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and Crohn’s disease. Three common factors include: • A vitamin D deficiency, as Cummins mentioned. • An infection that creates an inflammatory reaction, such as an inner bacterium that affects the gut, mouth or lungs. Probiotics are often recommended to bring more “good bacteria” to the gut and counter auto-immune reactions. One of his recent Health Buzz TV shows was titled The Microbiome: Probiotics and Lifespan (Youtube.com/watch?v=VrCry2XrpSk). • An emotional autoimmune reaction, such as a traumatic or stressful experience. Moore quoted Deepak Chopra, saying “the immune system is always eaves- dropping on your thoughts.” When Moore began treating Mario Scrimenti of Ansonia—who was suffering from rheumatoid arthritis—he started by boosting his immune system with nutritious supplements and foods mixed with smoothies. Moore used a method of giving high levels of nutrients, as developed by the late Dr. Linus Pauling, who also created the concept of orthomolecular therapy. “Some would find that scary, that it’s too much, but it really does work,” Moore says. “You want to get D level up quickly to a therapeutic level, and not wait over six months to a year to

achieve that goal.” Scrimenti’s smoothies included various minerals and supplements including MSM, which is an antiinflammatory supplement; fish oil; aloe vera, which erases inflammation and diminishes joint and muscle pain; protein supplements, such as L-glutamine; chamomile; ginger; and black cherry concentrate, which is a powerful antioxidant. The combined smoothie ingredients helped to stabilize blood sugar in the body, which in itself is anti-inflammatory. He tracked Scrimenti’s pain levels, his mobility and, of course, his energy and morale. “Cayenne is my favorite herb—it diminishes pain over time,” Moore says. In tincture form, he had Scrimenti take drops of cayenne in water several times a day, which helped enhance circulation and curb his pain. After six weeks, Scrimenti’s swelling and pain were practically gone. “Pain for Mario dropped from a high level of 10 to one,” Moore says. “You need to build confidence in the patient in a way that will optimize compliance using a natural-nutrient protocol.” Cummins adds there is always hope. “I’ve been on this journey for 18 years; I’m on no prescription medications, and I’m in the least amount of pain as I’ve ever been,” Cummins says. “I love to look patients in the eye and say, ‘I understand. There is hope and you can make progress. Naturally.’ ” Ed Markowitz of Danbury offers anyone who attends his lectures or reads Natural Awakenings magazine, a free consultation and evaluation. Call 203-798-WELL and/or visit the site at PhysiciansHealth.net. Patrick Moore of New Haven will be a presenter at the upcoming A Modern Tea 2016 event, which will be held at the Omni Hotel in New Haven in April. Moore’s topic will be Medicinal Mushrooms and the Microbiome. Andrew Cummins practices at Shalva Clinic in Westport. See ad, page 8. Angela Pascopella is a freelance writer and works full-time as managing editor at a national trade publication.

Living Healthy with Chronic Pain by Kelly McCaffrey, LMT

here are many reasons people have chronic pain, including car accidents, repetitive stress injuries, illness, poor posture habits and more. Many people live day in and day out trying to ignore the nagging tension in their neck or the ache in their low back. Massage can help. To understand pain in the body, it is important to seek the answers to several questions. What caused the pain—an injury, trauma or illness? When did the pain begin and how long have you felt it? Does the pain radiate? Is the pain confined to a local area? What makes the pain better or worse? Now consider how the body functions. The main goal of our body is to maintain a level of homeostasis or a state of equilibrium. Our body wants to run like a tight ship, engine humming, all the gears oiled, and it’s full steam ahead. When our nervous system receives a message of pain, we begin to slow the ship and look to the malfunction. The body will begin to tense its muscles in the surrounding area of pain, guarding and bracing the area in a defense mechanism. At first, pain is a positive warning; something isn’t functioning efficiently and we need to look at why. However, many of us tend to ignore the warning and, before you know it, you can’t turn your neck or stand up straight. Now your body has gotten your attention. But what do you do now? Massage therapy is one of the leading therapies that will help with chronic pain or tension in the body. Massage therapy calms the nervous system by increasing circulation of blood, decreasing muscles spasms, and helping with circulation of the lymphatic system. Another benefit is increasing the body-mind connection, becoming aware of areas of tension, and practicing on letting those areas release and let go of stress or tension. Therapeutic massage can be in the form of a 90-minute massage session or as little as a 10-minute chair massage. There are many types of therapeutic massage, including Swedish, deep tissue, orthopedic massage, acupressure and others. Finding the type of massage that works for you and the length of time needed is a discussion to have with a licensed massage therapist. Developing a routine for receiving massage therapy on a regular basis will help keep chronic pain and tension at bay. This way you can keep your body in ship shape and ready for your daily journey in life. Kelly McCaffrey has been working as a licensed massage therapist for over 20 years and teaching at Ridley-Lowell Business & Technical Institute’s massage program for six years. McCaffrey specializes in relaxation and mind-body connection massage therapy. Call 203-797-0551 for an appointment in the Ridley-Lowell student clinic. Location: 44 Shelter Rock Rd, Danbury.

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March 2016

Food to Manage and Heal Chronic Pain Reduce Inflammation, Increase Quality of Life by Jessica Moon

hen we are living with chronic pain or illness, energy and resources can be very limited. While we would probably do just about anything to heal, the very act of getting out of bed can be all consuming. It is easy to see how considering the role of food in the management of chronic pain and illness

can fall down on the list of priorities. In some cases, though, food and diet could literally end up being the most effective medicine. Using specific diets to manage chronic conditions is not new. Traditional cultures relied on food as medicine and within the past 100 years, more modern science has seen

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effective diet protocols developed to treat ailments such as epilepsy, schizophrenia and autoimmune conditions, to name a few. For example, the ketogenic diet was introduced in 1921 by Russel Wilder of the Mayo Clinic as a dietary treatment for managing epilepsy. While indeed restrictive, the diet alone has been shown to reduce number of seizures by 50-90 percent in patients. The GAPS (gut and psychology syndrome) diet and SCD (specific carbohydrate diet) are two protocols developed by Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride and Elaine Gottschall, respectively. These diets target the role of gut health in the prevention, management and recovery of conditions such as autism spectrum disorders, psychiatric disorders, allergies, asthma and Crohn’s disease. They have had much success to date. As it pertains to autoimmune conditions that are often intensely painful, former medical researcher Sarah Ballantyne, Ph.D., developed the Paleo autoimmune (AI) protocol diet. While perhaps not yet widely recognized by the conventional medical community, there are numerous anecdotes and testimonies in her book, The Paleo Approach. Her protocol is gaining more of a mainstream following likely because an increasing number of people are finding relief. Based on the Paleo diet— no grains, legumes, dairy, refined sugar or processed food allowed—this AI protocol takes it a step further and eliminates food groups that tend to cause a bad reaction in autoimmune patients.

Inflammation at the Root

While the specifics of various diets differ depending on the condition or symptoms they are meant to manage, they share an important commonality: they all assume that inflammation is the culprit in the onset and progression of disease. Anyone that suffers from arthritis can tell you about inflammation. What is less acknowledged, however, is the role of inflammation in most other chronic illnesses including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, mental illness, epilepsy and autoimmune conditions. “More diseases have inflammation at their root than we think. Inflammation, as it turns out, is the culprit

behind many of the life-threatening conditions we thought were closed cases…Even conditions that that aren’t strictly categorized as inflammatory diseases frequently have a significant inflammatory component, which is often the root of chronic pain and deforming tissue damage,” according to Floyd H. Chilton, Ph.D., the author of Inflammation Nation. Understanding the role that food can play in helping to manage and even heal a chronic condition can be daunting at first. With “information overload”, it is sometimes hard to know where to start. An important first step is to commit to the process. When getting started, it’s necessary to realize that it may take some time to identify where the dietary adjustments need to be made. There will be breakthroughs and setbacks and, at times, it may seem like a futile effort. While palliative medications may be helpful and necessary, true healing can only begin when the underlying cause of the disease is identified and addressed. Next, try to identify any food allergies or sensitivities. Seek the help of a nutritionist, conventional doctor, naturopath or all of the above. There is a great deal of divergent opinion on the validity and value of allergy tests, as well as how to interpret and apply the results. The process of identifying “offending foods” is far from a perfect science and it’s best to get different perspectives. The effort could be well worth it. By eliminating foods that cause the body to react, the underlying inflammation can begin to cool and the body can begin to heal to the best of its ability. Whether or not allergies or sensitivities have been iden-

tified, there are some dietary habits that are generally health promoting for most. For those with chronic pain and illness, it is especially important to make sure the diet is extremely rich in nutrients. For many reasons—such as physical and mental stress, effects on cellular metabolism and the inability to shop or cook—people with chronic pain and illness are at a higher risk of vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Focusing on very nutrient-dense foods like high-quality vegetables, bone broth, fruit and meat is essential. Avoid foods that are considered “inflammatory”, such as sugar, alcohol, processed foods, refined carbohydrates, and anything that causes a bad reaction. Luckily, there are lots of resources available now to help you on your journey of healing through food. Fascinating new culinary techniques are making even the most restrictive diets interesting and delicious. Cookbooks, consultants, online groups, magazines and meal delivery services are making it easier than ever for people to enjoy a diet that, at one time, may have seemed unrealistic. As Thomas Edison said, “The doctor of the future will no longer treat the human frame with drugs, but rather will cure and prevent disease with nutrition.” Jessica Moon, MS, is a clinical nutritionist practicing in Stamford and specializing in helping individuals and families manage food allergies/intolerances and special dietary needs. Connect with her at Jessica@NutritionRescue.net or 203-979-6181. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 68.

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March 2016

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ROLLING FOR FITNESS

DIY Rollers Ease Pain and Aid Flexibility by Randy Kambic

oore amateur and serious athletes, seniors and people wanting to ease stiffness due to sedentary work are enjoying a new DIY way to massage out the kinks at home that’s becoming recognized for its benefits by experts worldwide. For the first time, flexibility and mobility rolling ranks in the top 20 of the American College of Sports Medicine’s annual Worldwide Survey of Fitness Trends. Made predominantly of foam and hard rubber, the rollers can “massage, relieve muscle tightness and muscle spasms, increase circulation, ease muscular discomfort and assist in the return to normal activity,” according to the organization’s Health & Fitness Journal, which notes a growing market for the devices. Dr. Walter Thompson, professor of kinesiology and health with Georgia State University, in Atlanta, was the lead author of the survey. He says, “Personal trainers have found that it works for their clients. We’ve also

Fairfield County Edition

seen an increase in popularity in gyms and fitness clubs.” The trend is partly spawned by their use in Pilates. Thompson adds, “Tech devices, now central to our daily lives, have changed the way we plan and manage our workouts.” Yet, as with other such equipment, users must be educated on how to employ the rollers on their own. Most rollers are available in smooth or ribbed textures in different sizes and densities. Sets include one for deep tissue rolling, self-myofascial release and trigger point relief, designed to aid muscles related to the back, hips, arms, glutes and hamstrings. Dr. Spencer H. Baron, president of NeuroSport Elite, in Davie, Florida, was the 2010 National Sports Chiropractor of the Year and served as a chiropractic physician for the Miami Dolphins football team for 19 years. He starts patients out with rollers during office appointments, especially those with sports injuries. “It empowers them to take

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charge of their fitness,” he says. “Those standing or sitting all day at work may need it even more than athletes do to improve circulation and stimulate the nervous system.” While rollers can be administered to hamstrings and quadriceps by hand, he attests that the back is the most commonly targeted region, and suggests two corresponding maneuvers: Lie down with a foam roller under the neck at home. Gently roll it across to each shoulder blade, and then center it and roll it down to the buttocks; even to the hamstrings. Next, assume a squatting position against a wall and place a roller between the center of the back and the wall, gently rise up, and then sink down. It’s also possible do this at work in private. Baron and his colleagues believe that rollers are beneficial to use on the shoulders and arms of tennis players and baseball pitchers. “I like the metaphor of a chef rolling dough in the kitchen. With a similar motion, you’re kneading muscles and tendons, improving blood flow and circulation to sore areas,” he says. Jason Karp, Ph.D., the 2011 Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Personal Trainer of the Year and creator of his company’s Run-Fit certification program, has seen the popularity of the devices on the rise with runners. “People like gadgets” that can help them, he notes. “Runners get tight from running, and rollers can help alleviate that tightness. I know a lot of runners that swear by them.” Karp, a California author of six books, including Running for Women and his upcoming The Inner Runner, feels that rollers are especially wellsuited for post-workout use. “The rollers are basically a form of selfmyofascial release, which helps relax muscles by putting pressure on tight areas to cause the muscle to relax via its reflex to tension,” he explains. It looks like this universally applicable and simple fitness tool will keep on rolling through this year and beyond. Randy Kambic, in Estero, Florida, is a freelance editor and writer for Natural Awakenings and other magazines.

practitionerprofiles Kure Spa / Kure Bar

PuREST Float Center

430 Main Ave, 2nd Fl, Norwalk 203-857-1500 KureSpaSG@gmail.com Kure-Spa.com

35 Corporate Dr, Trumbull 203-445-6918 Info@PuRESTFloat.com PuRESTFloat.com

Business summary & services: We are a holistic wellness center offering Vibrosaun, massage, chiropractic care, Reiki, cranial sacral therapy and an organic juice bar. The center’s philosophy adheres to holistic components for healthy living: detoxification, relaxation and re-nourishment. What first drew you to this profession? Living in a stress-filled, fast-paced society that taxes our mental, emotional and physical energies, it is no wonder that many Americans are getting sicker. At Kure Spa, we want to provide an affordable, holistic center for people to learn and practice healthier lifestyle habits to reverse this trend. What should a client expect from a visit? Everyone who comes to our wellness spa will recognize the importance of changing unhealthy habits with ones that promote self-awareness and mindfulness to balance our vital life energies. After regular Vibrosaun sessions, fresh organic juices and other holistic services, our clients report being less stressed, sleeping better, having more energy and less aches and pains over time. What do you want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you? As one client commented, we are a wellness center disguised as a beautiful spa. Many devoted clients come regularly to de-stress and unwind, while others with chronic pain visit to treat their condition with a holistic approach. We’ve created Kure Spa to be an affordable sanctuary for people to stop by on a regular basis so they may live a healthier and more vibrant lifestyle.

Business summary & services: Floatation Therapy (Sensory Deprivation): You float in a light/sound-proof room on top of 10 inches of water, saturated with 1000 lbs of Epsom salt. Your body and mind enter into a deep, relaxed and meditative state with all external stimuli shut off. What first drew you to this profession? When I started getting physical and mental issues brought on by my stressful corporate job, I knew I needed to find something to help relieve the stress. Floating was the most effective form of stress relief I had ever tried. It is better than any drug. What should a client expect from a visit? You should expect to receive amazing customer service, and the perfect environment for float therapy. Our post-float relaxation room is one of a kind and is a great, relaxing area to continue your experience post-float. What are you planning in 2016? The biggest initiative in 2016 is to work more in corporate America. Work-related stress not only affects your work, but your physical well-being and family life as well. This is a win-win for companies to start offering this to their employees as an added benefit. What do you want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you? That relief from stress, anxiety, fatigue and chronic pain is not always a pill. Float therapy is a very powerful tool that can be leveraged to help with all the above and much more in an all-natural way.

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March 2016

practitionerprofiles Worden Wellness Center Thomas Worden, DC 41 Kenosia Ave, Danbury 203-748-8093 DocWorden@WordenWellnessCenter.com WordenWellnessCenter.com Business summary & services: We offer chiropractic, nutrition, massage and acupuncture services. Through education and awareness, our approach is to provide safe, drug-free, non-invasive therapies with programs such as proper diet and exercise, transformational weight loss, nutritional detox and hormone balancing. Tom Worden Areas of specialty and/or certifications? Dr. Worden graduated from the New York Chiropractic College as a doctor of chiropractic in 1981 and has been practicing in Danbury since 1982. He is also licensed to practice in NY. Dr. Worden continued his education at Northwestern College of Chiropractic and Texas Chiropractic College. He received his certificate in acupuncture and oriental medicine from New Mexico’s Fellow of Complementary and Alternative Institute in 2007. What should a client expect from working with you? We assist in helping patients make choices that will eliminate health conditions and symptoms such as allergies, weight gain, hormone imbalance, fatigue, insomnia, stressrelated symptoms, low sex drive and menstrual/menopause symptoms. Each patient is evaluated using many different techniques, including chiropractic muscle testing, bio-identical hormone testing, and standard blood, urine and stool testing. We also analyze for heavy metal toxicity, stomach pathogens and neurotransmitter imbalances to precisely diagnose the cause of your specific health issue. What are you planning in 2016? Claudia Larsson, LMT, recently joined our practice and offers massage therapy services such as Swedish massage, therapeutic massage, myofascial release, craniosacral therapy and Reiki. What do you want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you? We will assist you in reaching your maximum health potential by enhancing your own body’s natural ability to heal.

Fairfield County Edition

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ArthroWell Naturopathic, LLC 57 Plains Rd, Ste 3C, Milford 203-806-5138 ArthrowellNaturopathic@gmail.com ArthrowellNaturopathic.com Facebook.com/DrKimSandersND Twitter.com/_DrKimSanders Business summary & services: We are the naturopathic rheumatology specialists of Milford, using non-toxic, drugfree therapies to treat arthritis Kimberly Sanders and Frank LaRosa and autoimmune diseases. Our mission is to identify the underlying cause of disease, while improving your quality of life naturally. What first drew you to this profession? Both Dr. LaRosa and Dr. Sanders have had a passion for health since childhood. Now, we carry this passion into the office each day to help our patients on the path to pain-free health. ArthroWell Naturopathic was founded in 2013. Our two specialist NDs, Dr. Frank LaRosa and Dr. Kimberly Sanders, have been in practice for three years and six years, respectively. Areas of specialty and/or certifications? We specialize in all autoimmune diseases, including RA and arthritis, Hashimoto’s, PANDAS, JIA and chronic Lyme. Dr. Frank LaRosa specializes in acupuncture for autoimmune and pain conditions, and he also performs massage and weight loss counseling for these patients. What should a client expect from working with you? As autoimmune and arthritis specialists, Dr. LaRosa and Dr. Sanders will identify the underlying cause of your autoimmune disease through extensive testing, and we will help you reduce your pain and improve your energy with lifestyle changes, herbal medicine, acupuncture, bodywork and nutritional supplements. What are you planning in 2016? Our clinic is offering more therapies for fast-acting pain relief than ever before. Dr. Frank LaRosa performs massage, acupuncture, laser therapy, cupping and sauna specifically designed for the autoimmune and/or arthritis patient to have you walk out of the office pain-free! All covered by insurance! What do you want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you? ArthroWell Naturopathic is the autoimmune and arthritis specialty clinic of Southern Connecticut. We are specialists in using naturopathic modalities to restore balance to the immune system, while addressing your pain with insurancecovered, fast-acting treatments in the office.

Westport Rolfing, LLC 150 Harvester Rd, Fairfield Kaia Yoga Center, 1200 Post Rd E, Westport Sachi: 203-216-9720 • Mikel: 203-216-9770 Sachi@WestportRolfing.com • Mikel@WestportRolfing.com WestportRolfing.com Facebook.com/Westport-Rolfing-114120118606625 Business summary & services: Sachi and Mikel maintain offices in Westport and North Fairfield. Our specialties are reducing chronic pain from injury and repetitive stress, increasing integrated movement/ athletic performance, and addressing the physical manifestations of a stressful lifestyle experienced by so many in Fairfield County. Sachi & Mikel What first drew you to this profession? Sachi started to explore Rolfing as a way to work more deeply and create lasting change in her massage practice. She began her bodywork practice in 1999. Mikel’s attraction to this work was to address chronic pain from a lifestyle of extreme physical stresses. He began his bodywork practice in 1995. We have been Rolfers since 2005, practicing in Fairfield County since 2009.

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Areas of specialty and/or certifications? Sachi and Mikel received their advanced Rolfer certification in 2012 and 2011, respectively, with further trainings in cranial sacral therapy, visceral manipulation, functional biomechanics, neural-dermal modulation and traditional Thai massage. What should a client expect from working with you? Improved body awareness with the ability to understand your habitual patterns and explore new options; relief from chronic physical pain; more integrated and fluid movement with less effort. Movement integration homework is usually given between sessions to help the body hold the changes. What are you planning in 2016? We are settling into our practices and our new house in Fairfield. With our young daughter now in school, we’ll be able to pursue selective trainings again to increase our knowledge and skill set and make our work more effective. What do you want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you? In Rolfing, we work with the connective tissue, or fascia. Our goal is to balance the tensional relationships and unlock compensation patterns throughout the body. These relationships and patterns are created by successive trauma in our lives and lead to chronic pain. Our “wholistic” approach allows for energy and resources which have been focused on maintaining these dysfunctional patterns to be directed towards the causes.

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March 2016

practitionerprofiles Connecticut Headache and Migraine Relief Center

iFloat David Conneely 163 Main St, Westport • 203-226-7378 Info@iFloatCT.com • IFloatCT.com

Thomas Anzalone, DDS 235 Glenville Rd, Greenwich 203-531-5688 Office@CtHeadacheRelief.com CTHeadacheRelief.com

Business summary & services: Natural therapy-based, non-invasive treatment providing relief from chronic headache, migraine and TMD symptoms. Over 90 percent of patients experience a significant reduction and/or complete relief of pain symptoms within 90 days.

David Conneely

Business summary & services: iFloat is a center for stress reduction and mind enhancement.We offer floatation services and seminars in the mental arts. Floating is the process of being suspended in a warm, Epsom salt bath with no light or sound. The reduction of stimulation of light, sound, changes in temperature and gravity helps people reduce stress, reduce pain and enhance creativity.

What first drew you to this profession? I became involved in floating through the Mental Arts Network, which offers seminars to help people take on different points of view and other tools to solve problems and enhance communication. The seminars are largely based on John C. Lilly’s work, the inventor of floating. After completing my first seminar, I wanted to learn more. My facilitators sugWhat first drew you to this profession? gested I float to slow my mind and explore what was going For me, discovering this revolutionary therapy meant that on in me. I quickly found floating essential to my mental and how to effectively treat chronic pain patients were experiencing with TMD and headaches finally made sense. Want- physical wellness and eventually made floating and facilitating Mental Arts seminars my profession. ing to help people get relief from years of suffering and knowing that it’s not “all in their head” is what drove me to Areas of specialty and/or certifications? open the center. Certified Facilitator, Mental Arts Network. MA, Science Education, Columbia University BA, Biology, Pomona College. Areas of specialty and/or certifications? Thirty years practicing, advanced training in occlusal, muscular, nervous relationships and corrective therapy techniques. What should a client expect from working with you? Individualized, personalized care. Symptom and pain relief within 90 days. A partner in your health, well-being and comfort. What do you want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you? No needles, no medications, no pain is our outcome. Therapy and treatment is about balancing your body systems in the head and neck, skeletal, muscular and nervous to work in harmony.

What should a client expect from a visit? iFloat’s facility evokes a relaxed state of mind. Our staff is trained to talk to people about their experiences in order for them to get the most out of their sessions. We are very community oriented and we consider clients our friends and family. What are you planning in 2016? We are looking to bring in new staff and offer more Mental Arts Network seminars. Anyone working for us must complete our seminars starting with our two day introductory seminar. My consulting practice, iConsult, will also increase this year. I go into businesses to audit what is happening among the staff in order to assess and help them make changes so they are in alignment with the business or company’s objective. What do you want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you? I believe people want to enhance their relationships and make the most out of their life. However, they can’t do it along. They need tools. iFloat’s floatation and seminar services are powerful tools for people to slow down, relax, and improve their personal and professional lives.

Fairfield County Edition

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March 2016

Go Beyond Relaxation Floating Can Help ≈ Alleviate stress, anxiety and depression ≈ Improve immune system function

Permaculture Helps You AND Your Garden Grow Conscious Landscape Design Brings Mindful Rewards

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by Quinlan Mitchell

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203-445-6918 35 Corporate Drive, Trumbull, CT 06611 PuRESTfloat.com 38

Fairfield County Edition

elen Loughrey spent most of her life in Maryland before relocating three years ago to Greenwich. In the front yard of her old house, Loughrey designed and worked a garden full of edible flowers, ornamental cabbages and other greenery depending on the season. Planting in the soil brought her a joy she struggled to describe. “I forgot about all my problems,” Loughrey says. “Once I started working on putting those things in, it was wonderful.” Loughrey is the owner of Deep Heart Permaculture Design in Greenwich. It’s a landscape design company that transitions suburban properties into green spaces for food, resiliency and productivity. The principles of the permaculture design method form the backbone of the company’s core values.

Permaculture Design

Created by a pair of Australian ecologists in the 1970s, co-creator David Holmgren describes permaculture as a system of “consciously designed landscapes which mimic the patterns

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and relationships found in nature, while yielding an abundance of food, fiber, and energy.” The system operates on 12 basic principles, guiding the permaculturist’s actions and ethics in the garden. They’re holistic principles, such as “accept feedback, produce no waste”, and “value diversity”, to name just a few. Together, they help to nurture sustainable and productive green environments—no matter if it’s in a suburban backyard, on an urban rooftop or in a small windowbox. But incorporating the permaculture principles in the garden does more than just grow plants. Permaculture can also help spark personal growth. After all, “Everything is connected,” says Loughrey.

“Everything Is Connected”

To apply permaculture in the garden, it’s important to start thinking like a permaculture designer. Would another shape for that garden bed allow us to grow more and different kinds of plants? Could a climbing plant on the house help hold in heat in winter?

A permaculture mindset is about thinking of the whole system, and fully utilizing everything in the garden. Here’s one handy rule of thumb for the beginning permaculturist: think of at least three separate uses for each individual plant or object you intend to put outdoors. As a concrete example, in order to grow elderberry, plunking down a bush in a dry location may not be the best choice, even if your garden is mostly dry zones. That’s according to the owner of CT Edible Ecosystems, Sven Pihl. His Guilford-based business provides permaculture design solutions for residential and commercial landscapes. Pihl says either working on a natural slope in the garden or grading one by hand will create a natural “wet spot” as rainwater runs downhill. In that kind of environment, elderberry will grow much more verdantly and prolifically. And, as a bonus, the rainwater caught at the bottom of the slope can feed other plants that love moist environments, too. It’s this process of stopping and observing that is at the heart of permaculture. Understanding where, when and why things happen in the landscape creates win-win environments for plants and for people. But not everyone is looking to build an environment that’s sustainable over the long haul. Pihl says one of the challenges of working in Connecticut is meeting resistance from clients who may not want to modify their designs “I meet a lot of ‘just do it’ types,” says Pihl. But he knows from personal experience that nature gives greater rewards over the long term. During the economic crisis in 2008, Pihl turned to urban homesteading and permaculture to help provide necessities during rough times. “I was living in New Britain and began urban homesteading,” he explains. Over the course of three years, his homesteading project grew significantly. “That led me to grow my own food and work with my community, and grow food for my community—people in need—primarily people on my street,” he says. Growing food holistically helped Pihl to serve his neighborhood. For Loughrey, a former licensed social worker, the benefits of those community ties can’t be overlooked.

“I think a lot of mental health problems are basically about isolation,” she says.

Moving into Presence

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Over the past 40 years, Tim Currier transformed his 60 acres of land in Newtown, known as Sticks and Stones Farm, into a productive, organic garden and moss farm—a farm that attracts nature seekers from all around New England. Developing the land’s natural potential has been Currier’s dream since a two-year stay in Malaysia, working with the Peace Corps. Echoing both Loughrey and Pihl, Currier finds that systems like permaculture allow people to get back in touch with the world and, crucially, with themselves. “Living out in nature is a source of inner peace—and if you’re just running, running, running on concrete all the time, it’s a lot harder to slow down and be present,” Currier says. But the permaculture principles for Currier aren’t just a template to run a farm or plant a garden. They’ve also provided a map for living his life and influenced his decision to spend a part of each year in a rural zone of the Hawaiian islands. “What I’ve gotten out of it has helped contribute to how I live today: living very simply and trying to live very present. And working land is a gift to you to be able to do that. It’s working soil. And anybody that does it will tell you that it’s a prerequisite to being happy.” To incorporate permaculture principles in the garden this spring, start by stepping back and observing what’s actually happening. Next, focus on how to generate the most productive use of resources in all your outdoor endeavors. And remember that ultimately, everything is connected. “A permaculture lifestyle is really a happy lifestyle. You’re being very proactive and you’re not abusing anything. You want it to sustain itself and you want it to go on. That is a source of happiness. I’m a very happy guy,” says Currier.

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Quinlan Mitchell is a freelance writer living and working in New England. Connect with him at QcMitchell@gmail. com or visit him on LinkedIn.

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March 2016

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Developing Gardens Instead of Golf Courses Agrihoods Use On-Site Farms to Draw Residents by April Thompson

or thousands of homeowners in “agrihoods” across the U.S., homegrown is a way of life. Planned developments incorporating neighborhood agriculture are sprouting up in record numbers, according to Ed McMahon, a senior resident fellow specializing in sustainability with the Urban Land Institute. He estimates there are a few hundred agrihoods nationwide, in all regions and at all price points. “The trend is the convergence of several things, including a growing interest in local business, local food, healthy lifestyles and the foodie culture,” says McMahon. He adds, “Today’s developers have to differentiate their properties to survive, and farms have become the new golf course of real estate development.” Agriculture is a far lower-cost amenity that can even return a modest

Fairfield County Edition

profit by selling its harvest to the community. Beyond food, agrihoods help grow community, a huge draw for those living in isolated suburban areas. In 2014, Abby and Michael Wheatfill moved their family to Agritopia, a planned community in Gilbert, Arizona, near Phoenix. Billed as an urban farm, the central feature of Agritopia’s 166 acres, knitting together commercial, agricultural and open space with 450 residential homes, is a working farm, with roving pigs, lambs and chickens, a citrus grove and rows of heirloom vegetables. Farm, family and community life are interwoven. The Wheatfills lease a plot in an on-site community garden. Other residents buy shares in the community supported agriculture project or purchase produce or eggs from the

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community farm on the honor system. “We especially love the narrow, tree-lined streets and wide porches, and that we can walk or bike to fun, locally sourced restaurants,” says Michael, a technology consultant. Private backyards are small in favor of community space, nudging residents to meet each other, Abby says. The Cannery, in Davis, California, is one of the newest agrihoods and also one of the few that redeveloped an industrial tract. This 100-acre development, still under construction, will feature 547 new homes on the former site of a tomato processing facility, in addition to affordable rentals for low-income families. Its heart and soul is a working farm that will feed the community’s households and supply its restaurants. The Cannery is a pioneer in clean green energy, with solar-powered homes, connections for electric cars, and many other energyconserving features. Thirsty homeowner lawns are prohibited in most of The Cannery’s mini-neighborhoods, but no home is more than 300 feet from public green space. Samrina and Mylon Marshall, both physicians in their mid-50s, will be among the first residents to move in this spring. “We like that it’s a green energy community featuring multigenerational living. We’re also big on eating locally and seasonally, so the urban farm was a key draw,” says Mylon. North Atlanta family Gil and Jeny Mathis and their two daughters, 12 and 14 years old, discovered Serenbe, a planned community in Chattahoochee Hills, Georgia, two years ago. Now it’s literally their second home. “It provides a different life for our children on weekends they couldn’t otherwise have. The community aspect has penetrated our lives in a way that we couldn’t have predicted,” says Gil. Both girls love it, and the younger sibling is lobbying to relocate there full time. The family likes the people Serenbe draws and the opportunities to engage with them, the consistent access to natural and organic food and its artist-in-residence program. Serenbe was the inspiration for the Olivette Riverside Community

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

Victoria F. Shaw, PhD, LPC

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

Intuitive Psychotherapist & Consultant Combining the best of traditional

psychotherapy with intuitive guidance in Combining the best of traditional psychotherapy with working with children, teens and adults. intuitive guidance in working with children, teens and adults. Offices in Wilton, Westport and Fairfield. Offices in Wilton, Westport and Fairfield. www.victoriashawpsychotherapy.com

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There is Nothing Common About It

and Farm, a 346-acre, back-to-theland project near Asheville, North Carolina. Its owners are transforming a failed high-end gated community and adjacent historic farm along the French Broad River into an agri-centered development featuring a blueberry orchard, community gardens, vegetable farm and greenhouse. “It’s vital that we re-localize our food supply,” says Olivette co-owner Tama Dickerson. “One of the first things we did was to incorporate this farm and see what areas we could preserve, because what you keep is just as important as what you develop.” Future plans include hiking trails, artist live-work spaces, tiny houses, little free libraries and a K-8 school. Agrihoods aren’t solely for agriburbs. Creative public housing developers are bringing agriculture to high-density neighborhoods. The smoke-free Healthy High-Rise Arbor House, a 124-unit, low-income apartment in the Bronx, in New York City, features a 10,000-square-foot hydroponic greenhouse and a living lobby wall that grows organic vegetables for the community year-round. Residents can obtain a discounted share from the farm using SNAP benefits (food stamps) and take free classes in cooking fresh. Arbor House also allocates 40 percent of its rooftop crop harvests for the larger community. Agrihoods can take many forms, including those involving gardens cropping up in schools, parks and hospitals nationwide, as well as informal, guerilla gardens in vacant lots. Many cities, including Falls Church, Virginia, and Takoma Park, Maryland, have even changed local zoning laws so residents can keep chickens and bees in their backyards for eggs and honey, according to McMahon. “The era of the 2,000-mile Caesar salad has come to an end,” says McMahon, citing high transportation costs that make locally sourced food good for businesses and consumers alike. “The trend of growing food closer to home—in some cases at home—is here to stay.”

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March 2016

yogabriefs

COMING IN APRIL

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Yoga is the fountain of youth. You’re only as young as your spine is flexible. ~Bob Harper

oga Culture is offering a 200-hour, Yoga Alliance-registered program for aspiring teachers or students who wish to deepen their yoga practice. The yoga teacher training will take place every other weekend from April 16 through August 27 with adjustments for holidays. In teacher training, you will learn the bones of yoga: asana (physical practice), philosophy, anatomy, Sanskrit, history, class sequencing and more. Discover tools to grow, create a home practice, lead a class, and learn proper alignment of the asanas (poses), while being supported by new friends and experienced teachers. The training is led by Yoga Culture owner Jenny Schuck and studio manager Allison Schleck, both certified yoga teachers with strong backgrounds in Vinyasa yoga. They continue to study with nationally-recognized teachers Rodney Yee, Natasha Rizopoulis, Jason Crandell, Carrie Owerko and Jason Brown, among others. For the first six weekends, the program will be held 10am-4:30pm on Saturdays and 9:30am-4pm on Sundays. Following that, Fridays from 6-9pm will be added as well. Sign up by March 16 to save $200 on the training program fee. For more information or to register, visit WeAreYogaCulture.com or call 203-730-0250. Location: Yoga Culture, 105 Mill Plain Rd, Danbury.

Jiiva Yoga Opens Doors in Stratford

ocated in Stratford, Jiiva Yoga & Wellness is a new center offering a variety of yoga classes, massage, private Reiki sessions and a Reiki school with the traN ditional Usui method in Reiki I, Reiki II and masters. 1F Berta Prevosti, Jiiva Yoga’s owner and a Reiki master and teacher, has practiced in the holistic field for more than 20 years. In addition to meditation, yoga classes include restorative, mommy & me, all level vinyasa, tiny tots and more. “Our goal is to create a center in the community where people can join together for an enriching, educational, healing experience,” says Prevosti. To that end, a host of events are planned for the coming month. Upcoming workshops include Yoga for Anxiety on March 5 from 12:30 to 3p ($35 per person or $45 at the door). A Reiki I class will be held March 12 from 11am to 5pm. Participants can learn the ancient art of hands-on healing through a series of attunements to align the upper four chakras. The workshop is $150 (early bird price $125). No prerequisite is necessary. Yin and Yang Yoga will be offered on March 13 from 1-3pm ($25 per person, $30 at the door). The class will include warming the muscles and fascia using vinyasa yoga followed by holding poses longer and settling into restorative poses. A Couples Thai Yoga Massage workshop will take place on March 19 from 1-3pm at $50 per couple. Learn how you and a partner can ease each other’s tensions, cleanse and attune your pranamaya kosha (energy body) and practice metta (loving kindness) with each other. This type of massage helps increase flexJiiva Yoga - 2900 Main ibility, relieve stress and give greater awareness of body and mind.

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Step into Yoga Together

Mindful Minutes for Little Ones Yoga Helps Kids Focus and Relax by Julianne Hale

merican kids’ school, after-school and weekend schedules now rival the hectic pace of their multitasking parents. Like their adult counterparts, youngsters need time to decompress from the pressures of life and be present in their own skin, and yoga provides the tools to accomplish this. Most adults take to their yoga mat to create harmony in their body and mind, increase flexibility and balance, build muscle tone and strength, and because it makes them feel great. These same benefits apply to children as their developing bodies and minds respond to yoga on a deep level, both on and off the mat.

lives going forward,” says Gates. In the classroom, it transfers to learning skills benefited by the ability to focus. From toddlers to teens, children can have a difficult time processing and controlling their emotions, which are vital life skills. Carla Tantillo, founder of Mindful Practices, a Chicago-area wellness organization, has found that yoga and the practice of mindfulness help children express themselves in constructive ways. She observes, “In any situation, especially in communities where reactivity, impulsiveness and violent solutions are modeled, yoga empowers children to pause and take a breath so they can own what’s happened, move through it and Start with Watching Breath move on.” “Breathing and mindfulness practices are “I like yoga because it makes me important for children,” explains Mariam feel like there is calm all around me,” Gates, the Santa Cruz, California, creator says 8-year-old Biko Cooper. of the Kid Power Yoga Program and Dee Marie, the Boulder, Colorado, author of Good Morning Yoga and the founder and executive director of Calmupcoming Good Night Yoga. “There is so ing Kids, a nonprofit program that intemuch that children are not in control of grates yoga into the classroom to foster in their everyday lives; to give them a way a nonviolent atmosphere, says, “When to physically process their experience, a child learns through yoga how to feel to self-soothe and find their own internal a sense of themselves and begins to source of strength, is crucial.” understand their self-worth and stand tall “Having kids experience simply pay- in their power, they can begin to regulate ing attention to their breath as it comes their breath and their emotions.” all the way in and moves all the way out These invaluable skills stay with can serve them well in every area of their children through adulthood. 44

Fairfield County Edition

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Educators are starting to take notice of yoga’s benefits for children, including those with attention deficit disorders or autism, but yoga practice is still rare among school-age children. As encouragement, “Make it fun,” advises Gates. “It’s essential to create experiences that feel accessible and enjoyable for kids. They must feel empowered to do it themselves and take over the experience.” Six-year-old Carmen Wheeler likes doing yoga with her dad. “Yoga gets me feeling strong and it really calms me down,” she says. Music can help children relax and focus during their practice. Soothing basic instrumentals are good to start; an Internet search for yoga music for kids reveals many options. Parents can assist by incorporating yoga into a child’s daily bedtime ritual. “Do whatever they are willing to do with them,” counsels Marie. “Start by lying on the bedroom floor, doing stretches and focusing on breathing. Then move to the bed and teach some relaxation and visualization techniques.” Marie cautions parents against insisting that their child’s yoga practice mirror their own. “We have to meet children where they are.” Adults think that yoga has to look a certain way, but sometimes children don’t necessarily want to do the postures we’re familiar with. The best teaching reaches each individual child in a way that resonates with them because yoga is a lifestyle, not an exercise regimen,” she says. Yoga novices and parents that prefer specific guidance can take advantage of local studio classes for children and families or use DVDs, online streaming services and instruction books. Kevin Day, age 5, regularly starts his days with a Boat pose. “I like it because you can do it with a friend,” he says. Lisa Flynn, the Dover, New Hampshire, founder and chief executive officer of ChildLight Yoga and Yoga 4 Classrooms, is optimistic about the future. “In 10 years, I envision social and emotional learning, yoga, and mindfulness integrated at every school and mandated by educational policy,” she says. In addition to improved physical, social, emotional and cognitive health and wellness of the students, teachers and parents, she foresees “a positive shift in the overall school climate.” Julianne Hale is a freelance writer and Natural Awakenings franchise magazine editor in Cleveland, TN.

A Few Drops of Detoxified Iodine Can Change Your Life Give Your Body the Natural Boost it Needs Causes of Iodine Deficiency The Hidden Deficiency { The Best I Ever Felt }

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Iodine-Depleted Soil Poor farming techniques have led to declined levels of iodine in soil

Having the proper amount of iodine in our system at all times is critical to overall health, yet the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition finds that iodine deficiency is increasing drastically in light of an increasingly anemic national diet of unpronounceable additives and secret, unlabeled ingredients. This deficit now affects nearly three-quarters of the population.A Growing Epidemic

A Growing Epidemic

Symptoms range from extreme fatigue and weight gain to depression, carpal tunnel syndrome, high blood pressure, fibrocystic breasts and skin and hair problems. This lack of essential iodine can also cause infertility, joint pain, heart disease and stroke. Low iodine levels also have been associated with breast and thyroid cancers; and in children, intellectual disability, deafness, attention deficient hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and impaired growth, according to studies by Boston University and the French National Academy of Medicine.

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inspiredtable Recruiting Volunteers to Fight Food Insecurity

ommunity Plates is running its annual volunteer recruitment drive in all locations in March, including Fairfield County and New Haven in Connecticut. In Fairfield County, the organization will be working closely with its community partner bgood and developing some fun events for the whole family. While Fairfield County is one of the wealthiest counties in America, there are over 100,000 people—including 38,000 children—that are classified as food insecure. Fairfield County is the home base and the launch market for Community Plates, an organization committed to ending American food insecurity by directly transferring fresh, usable food that would have otherwise been thrown away from restaurants, markets and other food industry sources to food-insecure families throughout the U.S. Volunteers have rescued more than 1.5 million pounds of food nationally since the organization first began. For more information, visit CommunityPlates.org or call 800-280-3298.

CT-NOFA Conference Celebrates Organics

T NOFA’s 34th Annual Winter Conference will take place on Saturday, March 12 from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm and Sunday, March 13 from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm at Western CT State University in Danbury. The public is invited to join the Northeast Organic Farming JOINland OUR EV Association of CT (CT NOFA) for a day of learning about organic gardening, care, homesteading/farming and DIY foods, including kombucha, ginger beer, Soils, Compost & Mulching wine and fermented vegetables. Saturday, March 22,sys2014 Saturday admission includes a keynote address about community food Ground High School, New tems by Travis Marcotte, executive director of theCommon Intervale Center in Vermont; a choice of more than 60 workshops to attend; access to 80 exhibitors and venGreenhouse Workshop dors; and a complimentary tasting of locally-roasted, organic coffee from conferSaturday, March 22, 2014 ence sponsor Shearwater Coffee Roasters. Organic Farm, Admission for non-CT NOFA members is $60Urban and $8Oaks for lunch includes a New Brit variety of dishes prepared by sponsors such as Barcelona, Whelk, Kawa Ni,Care C NOFA The Organic Lawn Sugar & Olives, Wave Hill Breads, New Morning Market and Sodexo.

Thursday, March 27, 2014

Connecticut College, New London, C

For more information and to register, visit CTNOFA.org/WinterConference/index. html. Location: Western CT State University’s Midtown Campus at 181Care White For St, Organic Land Danbury. See ad, page 10. Thursday, April 3, 2014

Hom

Audubon Greenwich, Greenwich, CT

Crop and Gardening Planni Start by doing what’s necessary; Saturday, May 10, 2014, Tim then do what’s possible; Massaro Community Farm, Woodbr and suddenly, you are doing the impossible. Raising Chickens on a Dive ~Francis of Assisi Saturday, June 14, 2014, 1pm Millstone Farm, Wilton, CT

Fairfield County Edition

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To register or get more inform

ctnofa.org or call 2

grow nearly all the vegetables they’ll use for the year in the resulting backyard garden, noting that New Hampshire ranks number three for locavore support according to the national StrollingOfTheHeifers.com/locavoreindex. She recommends, “Start small, with a plant or two, and then make one change a week toward greater self-sustainable living.”

Success Tips

Greenhouse Magic

Eat Homegrown Organic Veggies Year-Round by Avery Mack

uch of America’s supermarket produce is expected to ripen in trucks, stores or at home after traveling many hundreds of miles from field to table. During the past six years, as Americans’ hunger for fresher, better-tasting food has deepened, the number of home gardens has risen by 8 percent, to 113 million. That’s more than one for every three people. Organic gardeners and others find that adding a greenhouse provides just-picked fruit and vegetables at their natural peak of ripeness and significantly extends the growing season. Pre-planted seeds and seedlings flourish in the protected environment and provide robust plants for an outdoor garden. Many vegetables, especially greens, can provide multiple harvests in the greenhouse well into the colder months.

Explore Fresh Horizons

“Greenhouse gardens are a constant experiment,” says Roger Marshall, author of The Greenhouse Gardener’s Manual, in Jamestown, Rhode Island. “I grew olive trees from seed, but they were sterile, so I had to buy propagated trees. Like my fig tree, everything will eventually outgrow the space allotted for it.” The plants get nothing unless you provide it, adds Marshall. His two, 300-square-foot greenhouses use 100 gallons of water every three days, some collected in 55-gallon rain barrels. During winters, the unheated greenhouse protects leafy greens and root crops. Hydroponic lettuce and herbs share the propane-heated greenhouse with figs, lemon grass, ginger, galangal and nine citrus trees. He opines there’s nothing like fresh Key lime pie in January. In Alstead, New Hampshire, Celeste Longacre, author of Celeste’s Garden Delights, uses her home greenhouse to give seedlings a head start on spring. She and her husband, Bob,

A greenhouse that creates a warm environment for plants during cold weather may also overheat. “Air circulation is vital; vents and fans are necessary to maintain the right temperature,” advises Longacre, explaining that plants can’t breathe in a damp house. She suggests, “Water only when absolutely necessary and at the soil line, not on the leaves. In hot climates, use shade cloth on the top and sides of the greenhouse.” There are destructive insects and beneficial insects, Longacre says. “Aphids will kill a crop. Ladybugs can eat 50 aphids a day, plus mites and larva. After the aphids are gone, ladybugs like parsley, dill and geraniums for lunch. That will keep them around in case aphids return.” Ladybugs can be ordered online; stick to local species. Some plants, like tomatoes, eggplant or winter fruits, need pollination that can be applied by hand, but it’s time-consuming. An easier solution is to use vibrating trays to shake pollen loose and fans that distribute it from plant-to-plant.

Southern Climes, Too

Even in warmer climates, a greenhouse has benefits. In Orlando, Florida, sisters Katherine and Jessica Grandey make good use of a 200-square-foot greenhouse of vertical aeroponic towers. No soil or additional watering is used because plant roots receive a nutrient solution. The small space provides the same amount of greens as a one-acre plot of land while using a tenth of the water, maturing from seed to table-ready produce in five to seven weeks. The siblings donate a portion of their chemical-free crop to GrowGreen4Women, a nonprofit group that supports cancer patients.

Benefits Beyond Veggies In Norwalk, Iowa, Master Gardener Richard Schreiber, membership director for the Hobby Greenhouse Association, collects succulents and cacti. He keeps his 500-square-foot greenhouse at 50 degrees during chilly months. “After experiments and mistakes, hobbyists find what works best for them. The resultant mix often includes both flowering and fruiting plants,” says Master Gardener Tom Karasek, the association’s president, in Longview, Washington. “All greenhouses have microclimates for more or less light or humidity and cooler or warmer temperatures.” For added value, greenhouse gardens act as insulation when situated on a rooftop to reduce heating and cooling costs, plus divert rainwater from drainage systems; the latter being especially valuable in urban zones. Whatever its size or scope, greenhouse gardening also shelters a sense of community. As gardeners trade vegetables for a fisherman’s excess catch or as a thank-you for the loan of tools, they share both lively fare and their love of discovery. Connect with the freelance writer via AveryMack@mindspring.com. eNaturalAwakenings.com

March 2016

seed husks are used in Metamucil and other natural bulk-forming laxatives that soak up water in the intestines, making for easier bowel movements. New young plantain leaves are a tasty addition to a salad and plantain oil or spray can be an excellent remedy for diaper rash. A word of caution, people who are using any kind of insulin should know that plantain seeds can lower blood sugar and therefore should not be taken internally.

Jewelweed

WEEDS: NATURE’S PHARMACY by Jody Eisemann

here they were once the basis of any healer’s medical remedies, weeds—otherwise known as wild plants—have become useless, unwanted invasives with no economic value since the creation of the modern suburban lawn. Millions of dollars are spent each year to poison and destroy them. However, with some investigation and a different perspective, weeds can be viewed as nature’s free gift to heal, clothe and feed us; improve our health; and even repair our damaged soils. The Northeast’s wet winters, rainy springs and hot summers help weeds to grow abundantly. Information on the many utilitarian, medicinal and culinary uses of weeds are all over the Internet and in numerous books. Here is a small sampling of some of our most common local weeds and their uses.

Plantain

In the United States, the medicinal use of weeds was once popular and commonplace. In earlier times, every child playing outside 48

Fairfield County Edition

with a minor scrape, cut or bug bite knew to chew the leaf of the plantain weed into a paste and put it on the wound for instant pain relief—and, as it turns out, its inherent antiseptic properties. But plantain has many other uses; its leaves can be used to make tea that can help reduce hay fever symptoms, or be used as a soothing wash for sunburn, windburn, rashes and wounds. Scientific studies in Germany show plantain to be beneficial for reducing pain and heat from inflammation as well as effective for treating coughs, phlegm and colds as it is especially beneficial for weak lungs. To make plantain tea, add a small handful of fresh or dried leaves to two cups of water, bring to a gentle boil, turn off the heat, cover and steep for 10-15 minutes, then pour off and enjoy the tea. Add a little honey for lung congestion such as with bronchitis and asthma. Leaves can also be frozen or sun dried in the summer and saved in a cool and dry location for winter use. The common plantain (broad leaf) and English plantain (slim leaf) are both from the same plant family as the South American plantain; the latter’s psyllium

natural awakenings

The dreaded effects of poison ivy can be mitigated by the delicate jewelweed, which is often found growing right alongside. Liquid from the jewelweed contains chemicals that neutralize the poison ivy’s components causing the skin-irritating effects. To treat exposure, immediately open up the jewelweed’s juicy stems, crush them a bit to release the liquid and rub directly onto the skin. Such quick action may be enough to prevent any irritation or, at the very least, provide significant symptom relief.

Dandelion

The versatile dandelion has so many benefits that it is an exhaustive list. It is believed that the dandelion is one of the richest herbal sources of vitamin K—which helps build bone mass—and is considered a general tonic for blood, skin and digestion. It’s high in vitamin A, B, C and D, and minerals such as iron, potassium and zinc. Its dried roots can be used as a coffee substitute and were once used to make a dark red dye. Dandelion flowers are still used to make wine. The best dandelions to use grow in rich, moist soil and have broad leaves and large long roots. Young dandelion leaves can be used to add flavor to salads, sandwiches and teas. Bitter foods and herbs have been

Homemade Poison Ivy Spray 1. Clean the jewelweed by pulling off the leaves and roughly chopping the stalks. Place the plant material in a bowl of cool water and swish it around to clean. 2. Remove the plant material and pat dry. 3. Put the chopped jewelweed in a jar, use a spoon or pestle to crush it further (most of the juice is in the lower part of the stalk). Then pour witch hazel over it to cover all the plant material. 4. Seal the jar and let it sit in a dark place for 12-24 hours. 5. Strain the liquid into a dark- colored spray bottle to prevent light from breaking down the plant material. 6. Keep on hand as needed. Use topically only. • You can also put chopped jewelweed in boiling water to produce an infusion, let it cool, strain it and place the liquid in a dark bottle, refrigerate and it will last for 3 or 4 days. This liquid could also be frozen into ice cubes and can be rubbed directly onto skin rashes for healing relief. used for centuries around the world as digestive aids and stimulants. Medicinally dandelion is classified as a bitter food. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a balanced diet should contain sweet, salty, sour and bitter foods. Unlike the Asian diet, the U.S. diet has few bitter tastes besides coffee, wine and beer. Most Americans stopped using our forbearers’ practice of using digestive bitters, which may account for the high incidence of digestive problems here in the West compared to Asian cultures. In TCM, the dandelion has been used to treat stomach problems and appendicitis. TCM uses it to “clear heat”— especially liver heat—indicated by red, swollen and painful eyes. It also can reduce abscesses and nodules, especially in the breast and intestines. Dandelion promotes lactation and can treat “damp

heat” conditions like jaundice and painful urinary tract problems. Dandelion’s relationship with sugar can be helpful for insulin dependent type 2 diabetics. Dandelion root and leaf combined together can support and stabilize blood sugar. Native Americans boiled dandelions in water to treat kidney disease, swellings, skin problems, heartburn and digestive problems. In Europe, dandelion concoctions were used for fever, boils, eye problems, diabetes and diarrhea. Dandelion’s other uses include indigestion, hemorrhoids, gout and high blood pressure. It can also be used as a mild diuretic for edema associated with heart conditions. Because of its high potassium content, unlike pharmaceutical diuretics, it can replace the potassium lost in normal urination. When placed in a paper bag with unripe fruit, dandelion flowers and leaves will release ethylene gas that will ripen the fruit faster. Dandelion root and leaves can also be made into a spray liquid plant food because of its high mineral content. Environmentally, the dandelion is critical for bees, especially in the spring as it flowers before many other flowers do. Its long taproot can help break up and aerate impacted soils. Dandelions can also “detoxify” chemically treated soils by concentrating toxic chemicals in its plant parts. There are many other local weeds

with innumerable health benefits, including stinging nettle, red raspberry leaf and red clover to help treat women’s fertility and gynecological issues. Japanese knotweed tinctures can help treat Lyme disease while clean and dried seaweed can be used as fertilizer for the garden. Sheep sorrel and lamb’s quarters are spinach substitutes and the regal great mullein—renowned for its curative properties for all kinds of bronchial conditions and treating ear pain—can be helpful to avoid antibiotics or ear tubes for children. As weeds return this spring, think of them as the gifts from Mother Nature, freely given to us each year just for the taking. *This article is solely for informational purposes, it is not intended to provide medical advice. **A note of caution: Weeds should only be harvested from safe un-sprayed areas, never from roadsides or ditches that are often sprayed with herbicides. ***Pregnant and breastfeeding women should always consult their doctor before taking any kind of herbal remedy. Jody Eisemann, a licensed acupuncturist with over 24 years of experience, has offices in Norwalk, Trumbull and Southport. She loves both gardening AND weeds. Connect with her at AffordableAcupunctureCT.com. See ad, page 28.

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March 2016

consciouseating

Eating a rich variety of plant-based foods is fast, easy and satisfying. ~LeAnne Campbell term, we should eat what tastes good, not what we think is good for us. Some days, we crave the sweetness of carrots; other days, the bitterness of artichokes or the heat of hot peppers. Our bodies can tell us what we need.”

Taste the Rainbow, Expand Your Palate with New Colorful Veggies by Judith Fertig

mericans’ vegetable habits are in a rut. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, nearly 50 percent of the vegetables and legumes available in this country in 2013 were either tomatoes or potatoes. Lettuce came in third, according to new data released in 2015, advises Tracie McMillan, author of The American Way of Eating. Further, 87 percent of U.S. adults did not meet basic vegetable serving recommendations from 2007 through

2010, a fact cited in the most recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention survey. Yet, urban supermarkets overflow with a wealth of common and exotic vegetables, often displayed side-by-side: broccoli and broccolini, green bell and Japanese shishito peppers, and iceberg lettuce and leafy mâche, or lamb’s lettuce. Trying one new vegetable dish a week is a great way to increase our vegetable literacy, says functional medicine expert Terri Evans, a doctor of Oriental medicine in Naples, Florida. “Our diet should be 60 percent produce—40 percent vegetables and 20 percent fruit,” she says. “To keep this sustainable for the long

Nature’s Temptations

Your HealTHY FooD MarKeT

Keep Expanding Choices

Going Green. Dark green and slightly peppery arugula is good with a little olive oil and lemon juice. Finely shredded Brussels sprouts bulk up a mixed salad, while adding the benefits of a cancer-fighting cruciferous vegetable. Instead of mineral-rich baby spinach, try baby Swiss chard, suggests Matthew Kadey, a registered dietician in Waterloo, Ontario. He also suggests microgreens, the tiny shoots of radishes, cabbage, broccoli and kale, all rich in vitamins C and E. Squash It. Varieties of summer and winter squash add color, body and flavor to one-dish meals, with the added benefits of B vitamins, magnesium and fiber. LeAnne Campbell, Ph.D., author of The China Study Cookbook, simmers a mix of fresh chopped vegetables including yellow summer squash or zucchini, and flavors with coconut and curry powder. Vegan Chef Douglas McNish, of Toronto, makes an okra and squash gumbo in the slow cooker.

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Sneak in a Smoothie. Change up a smoothie routine by swapping out the usual baby spinach for a blend of cucumber, apple and fresh mint, or else sweet potato and carrot, suggests Sidney Fry, a registered dietitian and Cooking Light editor, in Birmingham, Alabama. Snack Attack. An array of colorful vegetables served with dips and spreads can be an easy way to experiment with veggies. Carrots in deep red, vibrant yellow, purple and orange are delicious raw and supply beta-carotene, promoting eye health. Leaves from pale green Belgian endive spears are tender and crunchy. Orange or “cheddar” cauliflower has a more creamy and sweet flavor than its pale cousin. “Colors equal health, and the more colors we eat, the better our overall health,” says Susan Bowerman, a registered dietitian, lecturer in food science and nutrition at California State Polytechnic Institute, San Luis Obispo, and co-author of What Color Is Your Diet? “We also have to be willing to try new foods or new varieties of foods, or maybe to prepare unfamiliar foods in a way that will make them taste good, so that we will be willing to add more plant foods to our diet.” Judith Fertig blogs at AlfrescoFoodAndLifestyle. blogspot.com from Overland Park, KS.

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LAYERED VEGETABLE ENCHILADAS (Serves 4)

This recipe easily doubles to serve a crowd. Better yet, it reheats perfectly in the oven, so you won’t be disappointed if you happen to have leftovers on hand.

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups fresh or thawed, frozen corn 1 cup fresh or thawed, frozen bell pepper strips 3 tablespoons lime juice (from 1 or 2 limes), divided, plus lime wedges for serving 1 tablespoon and 1 1/2 teaspoons salt-free chili powder, divided 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added pinto or black beans, drained and rinsed 4 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, divided 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes 8 ounces frozen leafy greens, thawed 8 corn tortillas 3/4 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese (optional) • Preheat the oven to 400ºF. In a large pot, combine corn, bell peppers, 2 tablespoons of the lime juice, 1 tablespoon of the chili powder, tomatoes and greens and cook over medium-high heat until liquid is almost evaporated, about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, mash beans with 2 tablespoons of the cilantro, and remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder and 1 tablespoon lime juice. • Arrange four tortillas on a large parchment paperlined baking sheet. Spread bean mixture evenly on tortillas. Top each with about 1/2 cup of the vegetable mixture and some cheese. Top with remaining tortillas, vegetables and cheese and bake until hot throughout and cheese is melted, about 15 minutes. Transfer to plates, garnish with remaining cilantro and lime wedges and serve. eNaturalAwakenings.com

March 2016

FIGHTING FOR WHAT’S RIGHT Evolving Paradigm Gives Health Advocates A New Role by Sheri Hatfield

he advocating stories are often similar, such as a mother of a child with special needs, or a daughter whose father has serious health issues. They start where most people start, with traditional resources such as medical doctors, teachers, administrators and insurance companies. That is where the path may diverge, however. When their gut instinct tells them there is more that can or should be done, they begin researching options to find the solutions that work for their family. Debbie Morgan, owner of Integrated Health Services based in Sherman, was working in the health promotion and corporate wellness field and knew there was a need for integrative and holistic health awareness. That need came into sharp focus when her father was diagnosed with stage-four lung cancer at age 59. Since at the time of her father’s diagnosis there were no integrative health advocates to turn to, she took matters into her own hands and began researching not only conventional treatments, but natural or complementary 52

Fairfield County Edition

alternative options as well. “When you get a diagnosis like this—or any other really—you go along with what the traditional doctors are telling you because you’re a part of the herd,” Morgan said regarding her experiences with traditional medicine. After the loss of her father, she wanted to increase her knowledge of integrative health and pursued a master’s degree in integrative health and healing. Morgan calls the experience and education transformative. She moved on to training in emotional freedom technique (EFT), craniosacral therapy and somatic emotional release. After realizing she wanted to better understand thoughts and how they contribute to healing, Morgan attended a 12-month certificate program in positive psychology. Today, she helps others by teaching them to be their own advocate when dealing with illess, understanding integrative health options while taking control of their overall health and best interests. “I don’t want to be

natural awakenings

part of the herd. I want to help people beyond their dis-ease. I want to inspire health and happiness,” says Morgan. The notion that traditional medicine is offering only a part of the solution is a major theme for health, wellness and education advocates. It takes considerable resources of time, energy and even finances to find the right solution for each individual. Mimi Lagana, a certified life coach based in Greenwich, began her life as a health and education advocate when her child was diagnosed on the autism spectrum. She began by starting a MeetUp group for parents and children on the spectrum. In those conversations, she began to wonder why so many of the children were on pharmaceuticals, and if there were alternate options. She knew she didn’t want to drug her child and began researching autism, its causes and treatment options with a goal of keeping her son off of pharmaceutical drugs and helping him to prepare for life ahead. “We’re often looking for one magic bullet that is going to help; in reality, everyone’s bodies are different, so we need to try different things,” Lagana said. She tried a mixture of applied behavior analysis therapy, music and sound therapy, diet, homeopathy and naturopathic medicine. “Everything we tried had a positive impact, but there wasn’t that one silver bullet. So we kept trying.” Her son is currently 17-years old, and mainstreamed in a school with 2,600 students. When she started her journey, she didn’t have the luxury of the Internet and social media; she explains that she had to self-educate “like never before”. As they tried alternate health treatments through diet and other naturopathic and homeopathic remedies, Lagana saw a need to get more involved in the education aspect. She began to advocate for her child there as well. While she was working to find the best integrative wellness and education options available for her child, Lagana went back to school to get her master’s degree in psychology. Like Morgan, she says it is important for people to advocate for their own or their loved one’s health and well-being. She has found that typical medical doctors

don’t always provide alternative options; it is up to the individual to seek them out. She also says that typical doctors aren’t always preventative, but instead treat the problem once it becomes a problem. For most advocates, the typical journey starts with a diagnosis or problem of some kind, be it a physical health or neurological issue, behavioral issue identified at home or school or a learning disability or special need discovered upon entering the school system. Upon the diagnosis or discovery, most turn to their inner circle for advice, reaching out to trusted confidants for advice on where to turn next. Then the journey leads to consideration of traditional treatment options or alternative considerations. And, in the case of children with special needs, a meeting with school officials to help ensure the best education. Debbie Giblin started her journey in a similar way. Her husband had passed away, her child was acting out at home, and she needed advice on what to do. As a single mom she looked for outside points of view from adults who could help her find a solution. “You don’t know what you don’t know until you need to know it,” Giblin stated. “It’s scary as a parent.” In navigating her child’s unique concerns, Giblin sought out advice from medical doctors, naturopaths, school psychologists and counselors; she still spent a considerable amount of time researching options on her own. She learned about education plans, what resources the schools currently provided, what they were required to provide, what insurance paid for and what it did not cover. She learned what worked for her and her family mostly through trial and error and dogged determination. Along the way she met Occupational Therapist Amy Philosoph, and the two struck up a friendship. Philosoph has three children of her own—two with special needs— and plenty of experience advocating for their health and education needs. Philosoph started her career as an occupational therapist in New York City hospitals and at an early childhood development center in Harlem working in the Birth-to-Three program. She then moved to Virginia, where she practiced with one of the first women to open a practice in sensory integration. Unbeknownst to her, she would need all of this experience, and more, to help her own children. “I knew the system and still couldn’t get help,” said Philosoph. “I assumed it was my problem because it was my child.” The truth is, it’s not. Philosoph spent untold time and financial resources to advocate for the right schools for her children. She learned exactly what the school district was required to provide; she also learned that most pharmaceutical companies provide coupons for medications for people who can’t afford them. She found psychologists, naturopaths and psychiatrists who would take insurance and state-funded programs that could help families find relief. All the while she thought about why it was so complicated and wished someone could come to her home to help her. So when Giblin approached her one morning about an idea of creating a resource to help parents with special needs children, the idea fit what she’d been pondering. The two cre-

145 Grassy Plain St. Bethel, CT

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eNaturalAwakenings.com

March 2016

Tips for Advocating for Yourself or a Loved One Self-education is key.

Internet research, support groups, websites and social media pages are valuable resources for asking questions and investigating your options.

Don’t be afraid to try different things.

What worked for one person may not work for another; it is all part of putting together the puzzle. Discovering what doesn’t work can be just as valuable as discovering what does.

It’s OK to say no to what is recommended by an expert. We’re raised to listen to highlytrained experts and do what we’re told. In the new healthcare paradigm, you might have to say no to one expert and yes to another form of care. Listen to your gut and trust your own path.

Explore the limits of institutions’ policies.

Find out what insurance covers, what schools are required to cover, and more. When doing so, do not accept the first answer given. Keep asking questions.

ated Resource Road, a referral agency that specializes in connecting families to local special needs resources. “We help people by saying here are the rocks that no one is going to tell you about, here’s how to turn them over, and here’s the order for turning them,” Giblin explained. “It’s about knowing what questions to ask, when and where to get help and solutions.” One of the places where families with special needs children can turn in Fairfield County is Susan Jacoby, a psychiatric nurse practitioner and owner of Neuropsychology Consultants. She specializes in and advocates for parents and siblings of special needs children. When her special needs child was born 20 years ago, Jacoby discovered that there was no support for families going through her experiences. She realized she could put her psychiatric nursing skills to use making a living by providing a much-needed resource. “Families with special needs children have a unique and complex dynamic,” Jacoby said. “They are often balancing illusion with reality, the child they dreamed of and the child they have. That can be daunting and has affects on the typical children in the house.” The dream of seeing her two children playing together was what spurred her to create Devon’s Place, an all-abilities access playground in Norwalk. She wanted a place where her typical child could play with her

special needs child, and she could play with them both. She raised $750,000 to fund Devon’s Place in Norwalk, designed the playground, and acted as site manager during the building process. Now, Devon’s Place is an 85 percent accessible playground for all children. Jacoby now advocates for the families of children with special needs and speaks about the experience of parenting a child with special needs around the area. She notes that support is woefully unavailable and needs attention. She has joined a parent’s advocacy group that meets with state officials to get additional support. All agree that an advocate can help in getting the best care and education for yourself or a family member. If your family is faced with a daunting diagnosis or chronic illness situation to manage, find an advocate, or a series of advocates, to help you navigate the waters. While insurance may not pay for their services, they may be able to help save your family money, and find benefits, services and alternate treatments based on their experiences and expertise. Sheri Hatfield is a freelance writer and co-founder of an emerging children’s museum in Shelton. Connect with her at Sheri@DayDreamerConsulting.com.

Local Resources Integrative Health Advocacy LLC

Debbie Morgan 203-948-5372 IntegrativeHealthAdvocacy@gmail.com

Mimi Lagana

203-990-0568 MMLagana@gmail.com

Neuropsychology Consultants LLC

Susan Jacoby, APRN, BC 203-895-4559 Susan.Jacoby@icloud.com

Resource Road

203-893-4040 ResourceRoad.com 54

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

inspiration

relax • unwind • destress

COLOR ME CALM Grownups De-Stress with Adult Coloring Books

by Avery Mack

oloring books are no longer solely the domain of children. Immersion in this fun, creative pastime by adults even for just 30 minutes can constitute a focused meditation that relieves stress. Doctor of Psychology Nikki Martinez, in Chicago, says that famed psychotherapist Carl Jung believed coloring helps patients release anxiety. “It uses both sides of the brain and improves organizational and fine motor skills,” says Martinez. “After I underwent a major surgery, I was on bed rest for eight weeks, and adult coloring books were a lifesaver. They passed the time, were pretty and kept me in a constant state of calm. I devoured them.” Publishers Weekly reported combined 2015 sales of 1.75 million copies for the 10 bestselling adult coloring books through November. This trend was years in the making, originating when parents colored with their kids and sometimes on their own. Adults around the world now join coloring book clubs, hold related parties and take coloring breaks at work. Last fall, Barnes & Noble hosted the one-day AllAmerican Art Unwind, where customers colored and uploaded their results to Instagram and Twitter. Hallmark sent a crew of artists and calligraphers to select locations to help customers color their greeting cards. “We scheduled a coloring session for a 55-plus community workshop,” relates h Kessler, a licensed clinical social

worker with the Sparks of Genius Brain Optimization Center, in Boca Raton, Florida. “People had so much fun they wouldn’t leave. It’s creative, portable and inexpensive. You never face blank paper because the lines are there; you just pick the colors. There’s no stress about possibly making mistakes.” “Animals, jungle or floral themes, and Zen-inspired mandalas are popular. Customers like realistic, intricate drawings,” explains Idalia Farrajota, a Dallas executive with Michaels craft stores, which offers free, in-store coloring sessions and provides supplies. (Download a free sample book at Tinyurl.com/ BotanicalColoringPages.) Johanna Basford, a renowned illustrator from Aberdeenshire, Scotland, is a hit with colorists, catering to their penchant for nature with Secret Garden, Enchanted Forest and her latest, Lost Ocean. “My daughter wanted to color her life, not do generic drawings,” says Dieter Marlovics, prompting him to establish ReallyColor.com, in Chicago. “Really-Color converts photos into coloring book pages to make individually tailored pages.” Try these eco-tips: Sprout pencils, made with sustainable wood and fruitand-vegetable-based dyed clay instead of lead, are topped by non-GMO seeds that can be planted when the pencil becomes short. Inktense’s water-soluble brightly colored pencils mimic pen and ink; add water for translucency. Select recycled paper books, soy crayons, watercolor paints and non-toxic markers.

March is Color Therapy Month

YOU’RE THE

ARTIST

eNaturalAwakenings.com

March 2016

petbriefs Choice Pet Now Delivers in Stamford

C The Monthly Naturally Healthy Pet Section Starts Here!

hoice Pet, with nine Connecticut locations, has begun offering home delivery to its Stamford customers. Specializing in natural, organic and holistic foods for dogs, cats, companion birds, small animals, fish and reptiles, the store has a highly trained staff to provide customers with information to help keep pets healthy and happy. In addition to the Stamford location, Choice Pet also has stores in Danbury, Fairfield, Greenwich, Monroe, North Haven, Norwalk and Westport. To arrange delivery of Choice Pet premium pet food and supplies, call 203-7437555, extension 100. For more information, visit ChoicePet.com. The Stamford store is located at 949 High Ridge Rd, Stamford.

Countdown to Giving Day 2016

he 3rd Annual Giving Day is 24 hours of online giving by individuals, families and companies to support their favorite local charities. Hosted by Fairfield County’s Community Foundation, with lead sponsor Bank of America, donations will be accepted through FCGives.org on March 10. The minimum donation is $10, and there is no maximum. Danbury Animal Welfare Society (DAWS) is participating in the giving day at FCGives.org/ #npo/Danbury-Animal-Welfare-Society. The goal of Giving Day is to inspire and empower donors in Fairfield County to support local nonprofits. You can come together with other donors in the region and make a powerful, collective impact by supporting your local nonprofits. DAWS goal for the day of giving is to raise $10,000, which will be used for program expenses to feed, house and heal over 500 abused and abandoned animals each year.

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

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

Fairfield County Edition

To learn more about Giving Day, visit FCGives.org.

New Guidance for Pets Exposed to Rabies

epeat booster shots for rabies has been a subject of some debate as scientific evidence seems to supports that many, if not all, animals receive more boosters than needed to confer and maintain immunity. Finally there is evidence that conventional protocol may shift. New guidance in the latest issue of the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association advises that cats and dogs exposed to rabies and overdue for a vaccine can now have a booster shot followed by an observation period rather than be subject to quarantine or euthanasia. The recommendation appears in the 2016 edition of the Compendium of Animal Rabies Prevention and Control from the National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians, along with additional updates to the 2011 edition. Catherine M. Brown, co-chair of the compendium committee, described the compendium as a series of best practices that jurisdictions can choose to follow. The compendium also advises reducing the quarantine period from six months to four for unvaccinated cats and dogs exposed to rabies. The compendium committee based the guidance on unpublished data from various states. “In humans, we utilize titers,” Michael C. Moore, lead author of the study said. “In humans, if they’re pre-exposure vaccinated and exposed to rabies, we booster them with great success, and they don’t develop disease.” The Rabies Laboratory at the Kansas State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory receives several calls every month regarding cats and dogs exposed to rabies and overdue for a vaccine. Moore said the only recourse has been euthanasia or a six-month quarantine at a cost of thousands of dollars. “We are very excited that people might have an additional option if their cat or dog is out-of-date and exposed to rabies,” he said.

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naturalpet

WELL-MANNERED

CATS

Simple Ways to Get Kitty to Behave by Sandra Murphy

hree million cats end up in shelters every year, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Owners cite landlord restrictions or allergies in the family as leading reasons. Often, the animal is blamed for an easily fixed behavior problem; the Wake County Animal Center, in Raleigh, North Carolina, interprets rationales such as, “Kitty has a sensitive stomach [throws up] or pees under the bed [likely a urinary tract infection].” “I prefer to call such things issues, not problems. They’re often evidence of natural instincts that need to be redirected,” says Anne Moss, owner of TheCatSite. com, from Tel Aviv, Israel. “A vet visit will rule out physical concerns so you can move on to behavioral issues.” Once a cat’s adapted to living with humans, life becomes more pleasant for everyone. Cats can be trained. Dallas cat owner Bettina Bennett of WhichBoxMedia.com advises, “Start early, attach rewards and be consistent. Our four cats don’t scratch the furniture, come when called and know when it’s bedtime.” Clicker training works

well, adds Becky Morrow, a doctor of veterinarian medicine who teaches at Duquesne University, in Pittsburgh. “I have 13 cats living in my home and a sanctuary housing 65 more. They’ve learned to walk on a leash and obey commands.” Dr. Jeff Werber, a Los Angeles veterinarian, has found that scratching furniture, biting people, nocturnal activity, throwing up and ignoring the litter box are the five most common complaints. Scratching lets Kitty leave her scent, stretch and shed old claws. He suggests, “Get a scratching post, but don’t put it in an-out-of-the-way location. Cats like to be where we are. Start with it in the center of the room and gradually move it to the corner.” Measure how tall a cat is when standing on her hind legs with front legs fully extended. Get a post that is half again as tall so she can really stretch. Gently rub her paws on the post first, and then dab on a bit of catnip as added enticement. Cats don’t like unfamiliar textures, so avoidance training

tools can include laying aluminum foil or backing-side-up carpet runners over furniture arms and cushions plus double-sided sticky tape at the corners to preserve upholstery. When humans become a target for a cat’s pounces, use toys as decoys. A short play session will satisfy their desire to hunt. Leave curtains open so she can see outside, clear shelves for climbing and have a cat tree or window shelf for optimum viewing. A nearby bird feeder will hold a feline’s attention for hours. Werber advises, “For undisturbed household sleep, get the cat toys out about an hour before your bedtime. Fifteen minutes of play will tire a pet. Let him calm down and then feed him. A full cat is a sleepy cat.” Some cats nibble, while others gulp food and then throw up. The recommended antidote is to feed smaller amounts several times a day. Cats should eat both dry and wet food to get carbohydrates and meat, Werber advises. Throwing up can be a sign of hairballs, even if unseen. Put the cat on a natural hairball remedy once a day for four days, then two times a week, until the vomiting stops. A touch of non-petroleum jelly on the cat’s nose or a bit of fish oil or pumpkin in her food will work. When cats ignore the litter box, note what’s changed—the type of litter, location of the box, a lurking stray cat or the pet’s health. Arthritic cats find it hard to climb into a tall-sided box. Felines feel vulnerable when using the box, and like to know what’s around them—a lidless box makes them feel safer says Werber. The rule is to have one more litter box than there are cats. If the house is more than one story tall, food, water, beds and litter should be available on every level. “All cats should be kept indoors, microchipped and wearing a colorful collar and tags,” says Werber. Colors give birds fair warning if a cat ever goes outside. With time and attention, any cat can become an active, well-behaved family member. Connect with Sandra Murphy at StLouisFreelanceWriter@mindspring.com.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

March 2016

This is a two-sided coin. Animals living in positive environments can thrive. On the other hand, they can absorb and react to stress and illnesses in their people. While avoiding life’s challenges is not an option, we can be mindful of the overall environment we provide for our pets. There are two ways to approach applying good energetic practices for your pets. The first is through energetic practitioners and the second is making conscious changes to your household.

While avoiding life’s challenges is not an option, we can be mindful of the overall environment we provide for our pets. Energetic Practitioners

Animals and Energetics Providing a Positive Environment for Pets by Mary Oquendo

ave you ever wondered if animals respond to the energy that surrounds them? It isn’t if, but how. Animals are more in tune to the world around them than people are because they have not used their minds to put up walls of disbelief. You will not find a cow standing on a soapbox denigrating energetic work. Animals know instinctively what they feel and respond accordingly.

Any “laying of hands” on a pet’s body and working within their aura constitutes energy work. This includes, but is not limited to: • Acupressure - Gentle pressure with fingertips or crystal wands is exerted along specific points along the meridians. A meridian is the pathway through which energy flows within a body. • Crystal therapy - Crystals are placed in a geometric arrangement around the body or in a grid nearby. Crystals emit a stable energetic wave that is similar to human and animal energetic patterns. Through the Principle of Wave Interference, crystals are able to influence the inherent instability of energetic configurations of living beings. A grid is a geometric display that utilizes sacred geometry. Sacred geometric patterns are found in all living beings and throughout the universe. A grid boosts the properties of crystals. • Integrated energy therapy (IET) - Trained therapists remove energetic blocks on a cellular level. • Massage - Manual manipulation by hands on soft tissue, connective tissue, ligaments, muscles and tendons to release tension in those areas. • Reiki - An ancient Japanese technique that clears energetic blockages anywhere in the body by channeling universal life force energy. • Therapeutic Touch - Circular patterns of touch on specific areas on a pet’s body that influences well-being and emotions. Crystal therapy, Reiki and IET can be performed remotely as well as in person.

Household Changes

Final Journey,

LLC

( Pet Euthanasia Service )

Kristen Klie, D.V. M. and Associates

( 203 ) 645-5570 www.finaljourneyllc.com

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

• Aromatherapy - An essential oils is a hydrophobic liquid that contains the volatile oils distilled from the bark, berries, flowers, leaves, peels, resin, rhizomes, seeds, stems or wood of living plants. Essential oils are diluted in carrier oils such as almond, apricot kernel, citrus or grape seed. Diffuse calming essential oils—such as lavender, geranium or chamomile—into the air by means of a water diffuser. Hot plate diffusers will denature the essential oil, which may pose a health risk. Essentials oils may be diffused safely around cats providing the cat has no respiratory issues and should not be used around birds.

• Crystals - Blue lace Animals living in posi- The easiest way to agate, lepidolite and do this is with sound tive environments can or space clearamethyst have calming properties, while ing sprays. Sound thrive. On the other red jasper, mookaite physically moves hand, they can absorb the energy so that and hematite are grounding. Place raw and react to stress and it breaks up. Sugchunks out of reach gestions include illnesses in their people. tingsha bells, drums, of your pets around your home as they rattles, chanting, may pose a choking hazard. crystal bowls and uplifting music. • Denning - A den is a place of refuge Space clearing sprays use essential oils, or security. It’s a place to retreat to crystal essences and intent to dissipate when life has become overwhelming congested energy. Usually a couple or stressful. Cats generally create one of pumps of these sprays on a daily by finding a spot in a closet, but dogs basis not only adds serenity, but smells need to have one provided for them. wonderful as well. Set up a crate in a quiet place and cover all but the opening with a sheet Being mindful of how energetics affect or blanket. your pets not only benefits the animals, • Music - Pets have far more sensitive but the humans in the household as hearing than we do. Music in either well. the lower or higher frequencies can agitate rather than calm a pet. There is Mary Oquendo is a Reiki master, music designed specifically for soothadvanced crystal master and certified ing a stressed pet. master pet tech pet first aid instruc• Space clearing - A space clearing tor. She is the co-owner of Hands and removes built up negative energy that Paws-Reiki for All. She can be reached accumulates from daily living and at HandsandPawsReiki.com. See ad, replaces it with fresh, positive energy. page 60.

Smile, it’s

free therapy. ~Douglas Horton

eNaturalAwakenings.com

March 2016

petresourceguide ADOPTION/RESCUE ANIMALS IN DISTRESS INC. 238 Danbury Rd, Wilton 203-762-2006 • Animals-In-Distress.com BRIDGEPORT ANIMAL CONTROL 236 Evergreen St, Bridgeport 203-576-7727 BULLY BREED RESCUE PO Box 953, New Canaan BBRCT@yahoo.com BullyBreedRescueInc.org COMMUNITY CATS PO Box 4380, Stamford CommunityCatsCT@yahoo.com CommunityCatsCT.org DANBURY ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY (DAWS) 147 Grassy Plain St, Bethel 203-744-3297 FRIENDS OF FELINES, INC. PO Box 8147, Stamford 203-363-0220 Cats@AdoptAPet.org • AdoptAPet.org NFSAW 223 State Rt 37, New Fairfield 203-746-2925 • NFSAW.org PET ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY INC. (PAWS) 504 Main Ave, Norwalk 203-750-9572 • PAWSCT.org PET PROTECTORS 2490 Black Rock Tpke, #453, Fairfield 203-330-0255 • PetProtectorsRescue.org

PET NUTRITION

RIDGEFIELD OPERATION FOR ANIMAL RESCUE (ROAR) 45 South St, Ridgefield 203-438-0158 • ROAR-Ridgefield.org STRAYS AND OTHERS PO Box 473, New Canaan 203-966-6556 StraysAndOthers@hotmail.com TAILS OF COURAGE 1 Pembroke Rd, Danbury 877-63-TAILS • TailsOfCourage.org WESTPORT ANIMAL SHELTER ADVOCATES (WASA) 1 Tower Ridge, Westport 203-557-0361 • WestportWASA.org

HOLISTIC MOBILE GROOMING MARY OQUENDO

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

PAUL’S CUSTOM PET FOOD LLC PO Box 794, New Milford 603-706-0739 Paul@PaulsCustomPetFood.com PaulsCustomPetFood.com

Nutrition is your pet’s best friend. We create handmade, personalized pet food and treats with ingredients that are organic, free of GMOs, synthetic chemicals, added growth hormones, unnecessary antibiotics, and preservatives. Food is handmade in small batches. See website for details about ordering or customizing for your pet’s special needs.

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 only 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 an even more reduced rate, and the clinic offers spay/neuter and vaccine discounts for feral cats. See ad, page 59.

Wellness At Your Fingertips *Reduce Stress *Recharge Energy Reiki, Crystals, and Bio Mat Therapy Relax At Home Or In Our Mobile Spa Private Sessions For People & Pets With A Caring and Knowledgeable Energetic Practitioner

Call Mary @

203-994-5308 HandsAndPawsReiki.com 60

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

calendarofevents

markyourcalendar

Magazine calendar events must be received by March 12 (for April issue) and adhere to our guidelines. All calendar submissions must be entered online at eNaturalAwakenings.com: click on “submit calendar” at the very top of the page. TUESDAY, MARCH 1 Herbal First Aid Kit Class – 6-9pm. Learn how to naturally treat cuts, bumps, bruises, tummy aches, itchy skin and more. You will go home with a fully stocked herbal first aid kit including salves, washes, tinctures and more. $75. Twin Star Herbal Education, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 203-313-7883. TwinStarHerbInfo@gmail.com. TwinStarHerbal.com.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2 Naam Yoga Healing Circle – 8-8:45pm. Join a guided mantra and breath meditation class to promote healing. Come pray for yourself and/or others. $5. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.

THURSDAY, MARCH 3 Tao Yin and Stress Reduction Techniques – 7-8:30pm. Exercise and self-massage intended to revitalize a person’s internal energy. Encourages flexibility and strength. Free for patients. Non-Patients/$20 donation. Free if you bring a guest. SOPHIA Natural Health Center, 31 Old Rte 7, Brookfield. 203-740-9300. LKHoffman@ SophiaNaturalHealth.com. INM.Center/Events.

FRIDAY, MARCH 4 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. Monthly Shamanic Healing Drum Circle – 7:30-9:30pm. Enhance your connection to energy, spirit and Mother Earth for guidance and healing through Native American methods. Drums and rattles provided. $20/pre-registration. Hunter

Healing Hands, 215 Harbor Ave, Bridgeport. 203916-8381. HunterHealingHands@hotmail.com. HunterHealingHands.com.

SATURDAY, MARCH 5 Reiki 1st Degree Workshop – 9:30am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki master (20 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. 2 manuals and certificate. $125. Angelic Healing Center for Reiki, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@ snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com. Spiritual Psychic and Healing Fair – Noon5pm. Readings with gifted and caring intuitives approximately 25 minutes. Tarot cards, mediumship, psychic readings available. Reiki healing sessions available. $45+/readings, $30+/healing. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. My10Cats@ optonline.net. AlbertsonChurch.org. Soul Dance with Irene Genovese – 2:30-4pm. Full range of movement, awaken creativity and self-expression and experience being fully alive and present in this exhilarating, energizing and transformative workshop! $35 (register by 3/2 and save $10). LifePath Yoga & Wellness, 430 Main Ave, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-354-7070. NAntolino@aol. com. LifePathYoga.net.

SUNDAY, MARCH 6 Health and Wellness Fair with the New Haven Chapter of the Holistic Chamber of Commerce – 11:30am-4:30pm. $5 admission. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. NewHaven@ HolisticChamberOfCommerce.com. Learn.edu/Events. Women’s Meditation and Writing Afternoon Retreat – 1-5pm. Discover new facets of yourself. Get unstuck from the muck of your daily life and connect with the blooming lotus of your creative nature. Write, listen to yourself, and be heard, perhaps for the very first time. Led by Beth Leas.

Become a Professional Certified Crystal Healing Practitioner!

Hunter Healing Hands Crystal Healing Intenstive

An Accredited Certification Training Program Part 1 Saturday April 2 Sunday, April 3 9am to 5pm Part 2 Saturday, April 30 Sunday, May 1 9am to 5pm Includes a full set of healing crystals. A certificate is issued upon completion of Part 2. Contact Jessica at 203-916-8381 or email HunterHealingHands@hotmail.com. Visit HunterHealingHands.com for more program information.

$75. Redding Meditation Center, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-856-9566. TLCCenter@ aol.com. BethLeas.com.

MONDAY, MARCH 7 Health and Wellness Council Meeting – 8-9:30am. Group of incredible health and wellness professionals who are members of the Ridgefield Chamber of Commerce. Meetings are held monthly. Please RSVP. First two meetings are free. Lyme Connection, Town Hall Annex, 66 Prospect St, Ridgefield. 203-438-5992. JMulhern@RidgefieldChamber.org. RidgefieldChamber.org .

TUESDAY, MARCH 8

The 13th Munay Ki Rite: A Sacred Shamanic Ceremony for Women – 7-9pm. Sacred shamanic ceremony to receive the 13th Munay Ki Rite for Womb healing and empowerment. Shamanic, ceremonial and crystal healing incorporated. Drums and rattles provided. $40/pre-registration. Hunter Healing Hands, 215 Harbor Ave, Black Rock. 203916-8381. HunterHealingHands@hotmail.com. HunterHealingHands.com.

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

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

Moss Mountain at

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

Robin Ordan, LCSW 203-561-8535

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

sticksandstonesfarm.com or call 203 270 8820 eNaturalAwakenings.com

March 2016

calendarofevents markyourcalendar Yoga Culture Teacher Training 2016 Yoga Culture of Danbury is offering Yoga Teacher Training. This is a 200-Hour Yoga Alliance Registered Program for aspiring teachers or students who wish to deepen their practice. Sign up by March 16th to save $200! Visit: WeAreYogaCulture.com Teacher Training for more information.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9

Peace of Me – 7-9:30pm. An herbal, historic and paying-it-forward to other women menstrual/ menopause workshop. Discuss menstruation throughout history in an entertainingly-informative presentation. There is an array of herbal alternatives to taking Midol the Pill. Learn alternatives, make herbal tea and create your own menstrual pads. $25. Grounded Holistic Wellness, LLC, Woodbury. 860-354-4881. GroundedHolisticWellness@yahoo. com. GroundedHolisticWellness.com.

THURSDAY, MARCH 10

Way of the Tea: The Tea Culture of China – 7-8:30pm. With Dr. Bruce. Introduction to the Chinese Tea Culture and various teas and their healing/medicinal properties. Free for patients. Non-Patients: $20 donation. Free if you bring a guest. SOPHIA Natural Health Center, 31 Old Rte 7, Brookfield. 203-740-9300. Info@INM.Center. INM.Center/Events. Homemade Body Scrubs – 7-9pm. Create your own Cinnamon Coffee Body Scrub or Lemon Sugar Scrub. The ancient Egyptians are recognized as being the first to use exfoliating treatments. Historical/ Medicinal overview plus workshop. $20/materials included. Grounded Holistic Wellness, LLC, Woodbury. 860-354-4881. ColonialGoodWife@gmail. com. GroundedHolisticWellness.com.

FRIDAY, MARCH 11

Weekend Retreat – March 11-13. Opportunity to deepen your meditation practice by allowing you to cultivate self-awareness for an extended period of time without distraction. Private interview period with Achan Da. Register by March 4. $60/weekend, $30/one day. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. Info@ ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org.

SATURDAY, MARCH 12

Biodanza, The Dance of Life – 2-4:30pm. With Michelle Dubreuil Macek, Maryland-based Biodanza Didact Facilitator. Come open to life and embrace your potential with authentic movement, music and heartfelt emotion. $40. Basil Yoga Center, 31 Bailey Ave, Ridgefield. 410-736-9311. BiodanzaEastCoast@gmail.com. BiodanzaUSA.com.

Fairfield County Edition

SUNDAY, MARCH 13

Yin Yoga with Robert Ortner – 12:30-2:30pm. Yin Yoga is the perfect complement to the more dynamic Yang styles of yoga as well as everyday stress, and will enhance the overall progress and safety of everyone’s yoga/life journey. $45 ($35/ early registration by March 10). LifePath Yoga & Wellness, 430 Main Ave, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203354-7070. NAntolino@aol.com. LifePathYoga.net.

SUNDAY, MARCH 20

Introduction to Universal Kabbalah – 3-5pm. An introduction to the science of Divine Spiritual Wisdom. Receive knowledge and practical techniques to apply on a daily basis to expand your consciousness, enhance your life, and help others. Bring a notebook. $35. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@ NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.

THURSDAY, MARCH 24 The Graduate Institute Information Session – 6:30-7:30pm. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. 203-874-4252. Info@Learn.edu. Learn.edu/Events.

The Basics of QiGong – 7-8:30pm. 5,000 year old Chinese health method that combines slow graceful movements with mental concentration and breathing. Free for patients. Non-Patients: $20 donation. Free if you bring a guest. SOPHIA Natural Health Center, 31 Old Rte 7, Brookfield. 203-740-9300. Info@INM.Center. INM.Center/Events.

FRIDAY, MARCH 25

Reiki Second Degree Workshop – 10am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher (20 years). Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. 2 powerful energy connections from my short Japanese/Usa Linage. Two manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki. com.

SATURDAY, MARCH 26

Reiki Second Degree – 9:30am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher (20 years). Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. 2 powerful energy connections from my short Japanese/Usa Linage. Two manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki. com.

TUESDAY, MARCH 29

Multidimensional Healing With Essential OIls – 7-8:30pm. Using essential oils for healing physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. Free class to introduce you to a whole new world of wellness using ‘beyond organic’ Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade essential oils. Free. Sticks & Stones Farm, 197 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown. 203-364-6262. CarlaBarzetti@me.com. BrilliantSoul.com.

natural awakenings

markyourcalendar Biodanza With Michelle Dubreuil Macek Saturday, March 12 2-5pm A dance experience that offers all participants happiness, tenderness and strength. Biodanza awakens our potential to live life fully. $40 Visit BasilYoga.com to register Basil Yoga, 31 Bailey Ave, Ridgefield 203-403-2280

THURSDAY, MARCH 31

New Workshop: Home Care Exercises – 7-8:30pm. With Dr. Chris. Simple exercises to increase your strength, balance and flexibility. Designed for you to practice at home to benefit your overall health. Free for patients. Non-Patients: $20 donation. Free if you bring a guest. SOPHIA Natural Health Center, 31 Old Rte 7, Brookfield. 203-740-9300. Info@INM.Center. INM.center. Bow Wow Wow! – 7-9pm. Make your own Calming Passionflower Dog Treats + a Flower Essence for your dog. $20/materials included. Grounded Holistic Wellness, LLC, Woodbury. 860-354-4881. ColonialGoodWife@gmail.com. GroundedHolisticWellness.com. Crystal Energy Chakra Meditation and Messages with Mary Beth Canty – 7-9pm. Harness the vitality of Spring renewal and energize a crystal to support you with this guided imagery and crystal energy supported full chakra meditation. Channeled messages provided. $45. Mother Earth Gallery, 449 Danbury Rd, New Milford. 203775-6272. MotherEarthBrookfield@gmail.com. MotherEarthCrystals.com.

Melody Sun Medicine Circle: A Group Intiutive, Shamanic and Crystal Healing Experience – 7-9pm. This Melody healing array focuses on healing andenhancing open-ness, higher self, expression, self-esteem, renewal and rejuvenation. Intimate group setting for enhanced connections. Registration required. $40. Hunter Healing Hands, 215 Harbor Ave, Black Rock. 203916-8381. HunterHealingHands@hotmail.com. HunterHealingHands.com.

Guided Healing Meditation: Complete SelfAcceptance – 7:30-8:30pm. With the Archangels and quartz chakra healing bowls. Receive a gentle but powerful energy healing as you connect to your soul, bringing your power and soul fragments back to yourself. $15. Sticks & Stones Farm, 197 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown. 203-364-6262. CarlaBarzetti@me.com. BrilliantSoul.com.

ongoingcalendar sunday New Beginnings in Community Sunday Service – 10am. Join this group of spiritually-minded people embracing and honoring all world religions, belief systems, cultures and traditions. Come together to share thoughts, experiences and wisdom in a supportive environment. Free. Mystics By The Sea, 394 New Haven Ave, Milford. 203-980-6272. NewBeginningsInCommunity.Weebly.com. Family Program (Kids and Teens) – 10-11:30am. First and third Sunday. Introducing kids to meditation, metta, yoga, art practice, a discussion of ness in everyday life, generosity, compassion, letting go of negative mind states and other basic Parents can meditate in the main building. Contact Matt Keeler at MmKeeler@gmail.com. ReddingMeditation.org. Mahasati Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Celebration Service – 10:30am-noon. With Rev. Shawn Moninger Inspiring message supports your spiritual unfoldment with thought provoking, soul healing topics and uplifting music. By donation. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@UnityCenterNorwalk. org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org. Albertson Church Service – 11am-12:30pm. Includes an inspirational talk from caring ministers, guided meditation, time to receive healing energy and spirit messages from those we continue to love. Free. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-637-4615.

monday Monday Morning Meditation – 11:30am-12:30pm. With Beth Leas. Practical approach supports you as you develop a solid life skill. Whether you’ve never meditated or you’re a sage meditator - this class is for you. Explore different meditation techniques each week. $30. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com. Intro to Mindfulness Meditation, with Dr. Paul Epstein, ND – 12:30-1:30pm. Develop greater clarity, focus and overall well-being. Learn practical tools to establish your own home practice. $99/4week series ($30 drop-in per class). LifePath Yoga & Wellness, 430 Main Ave, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203354-7070. NAntolino@aol.com. LifePathYoga.net. Kids Relaxation and Meditation: Yoga Style – 5-5:30pm. Children are encouraged to play yoga and experience how their breath and body move together in a fun-filled way. Program promotes inner-strength, confidence and self-esteem and love for one’s self, inside and out. $10. 3 Rt 39, Unit #5, New Fairfield. 203-885-0577. WholeFitNF@gmail. com. EarthFITnf.com/Whole-Fit.

Intro to Yoga 4-Week Series with Leslie Santiana – 5:45-6:45pm. Learn healthy alignment of basic yoga poses that establish the foundation of a safe yoga practice. $99/4-week series (includes one month of unlimited beginner yoga classes). LifePath Yoga & Wellness, 430 Main Ave, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-3547070. NAntolino@aol.com. LifePathYoga.net. Mahasati 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. Vinyasa Yoga – 7:30-8:30pm. With Raffaela, certified yoga instructor. Begin your exploration of connecting the breath with movement as you develop strength, endurance, flexibility and optimal body alignment. $15, first class free. Class cards available. The Recharging Station, 241 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-241-1497. Yoga.For.Me241@gmail.com. Monday Meditation for Everyone – 7:30-9pm. This is Meditation Guided Imagery for relaxation and stress reduction. It also helps you move forward on your spiritual path. No experience necessary. $20. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plain St, Bethel. 203-570-3868. Reiki Share – 7:30-9:30pm. Fourth Monday. With JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT. Practice Reiki in a small group setting. Share experiences and help each other develop in a safe, fun environment while providing a wonderful, relaxing, rejuvenating experience. $20. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center, 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointReiki.com.

tuesday TLC Monthly Networking Breakfast – 8:3010am. First Tuesday. Looking for a community of healthy living professionals? Relaxed supportive group of professionals. Grab a friend, your biz cards and join us for a fun morning of connecting. Free. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. TLCCenter.com. Yoga Therapeutics – 9-10:15am. With Dr. Kathy Sward. Designed for those with chronic pain, health conditions, prevention and other health concerns. Traditional poses are expertly modified to allow the mind to calm, joints to align and muscles lengthen and strengthen. $15. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-207-1613. Dr.KathySward@gmail.com. DrKathySward.com. Healing Flow – 9:30-10:30am. Series of stretches, moves and poses; concentrating on breath. Improve flexibility and core strength while reducing stress. Create a lasting sense of calm. $14. 3 Rt 39, Unit #5, New Fairfield. 203-885-0577. WholeFitNF@ gmail.com. EarthFITnf.com/Whole-Fit. Toastmasters – Noon. Interested in public speaking? Monroe-Trumbull Toastmasters is a chartered club of Toastmasters International dedicated to improving members’ communication and leadership skills. Meets alternate Tuesdays. Body Smart, Crescent Village, 115 Main St, Unit 11, Monroe. 203-459-6773. Franny. Hannigan@charter.com. ToastMastersClubs.org.

Tai Chi Classes – Noon-1pm & 6-7pm. With Tai Chi Master Rich. For all levels of fitness. Known to reduce stress, increase focus and balance. Focus is on purposeful work to improve well-being and self. $25/drop-in, $85/1 class per week-month. $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690.. Mahasati Insight Meditation – 12:30-2pm. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Kung Fu Classes – 1-2pm & 7-8pm. With Sensei Rich. The ancient of art of Kung Fu is known for its ability to increase mental focus, strength, flexibility and balance and for its self defense moves. $25/ drop-in, $85/1 class per week-month. $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690. Meditating Holistically – 6:30-8pm. With Urgyan, a Western Buddhist lama sharing a rich practice of traditional meditation guidance directed toward holistic integration. Group meditation and discussion, devoted to our mutual innermost truths. $15. Location: ah Yoga, 168 New Milford Tpke (Rt 202), New Preston. 860-868-6707 or Danbury Area Vajrayana Buddhist Meditation on Meetup.com. Angelic Healing Group – 7-9pm. First Tuesday. Experience the healing energy of the Angelic Realm. Your energy body will be infused with the love and light of the Divine through meditation and hands-on touch. $20. Stevens Memorial Church, 8 Shady Ln, South Salem, NY. 203-438-4893. Yoga Class or Yoga/Float – Yoga: 7-8pm. or Yoga/ Float package: 7-9pm. Enjoy the benefits of yoga in the beautiful PuREST relaxation room. $15/yoga only. $65/yoga & float package. PuREST Float Center, 35 Corporate Dr, Trumbull. PuRESTFloat.com. Reiki Shares – 7:30-10:15pm. First and third Tuesdays. Gigi Benanti Usui/Karuna Reiki Master/ Teacher. For Reiki practitioners only. Exchange ongoing since 1996. Instructions included. $20. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. Pre-register: 203-852-1150.

wednesday Understanding Brain Wave Training – 10:3011:30am. First & third Wednesday. Discuss how conditions such as ADD, anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain and others have unique, abnormal brainwave patterns that can be improved using BrainCore Neurofeedback Therapy. Free. Halo Studios - Club Room, 45 Grove St, upstairs in tennis center, New Canaan. 203-316-8212. Info@ NorwalkBrainCore.com. NorwalkBrainCore.com. Vinyasa Yoga – 6:15pm. In Vinyasa yoga, your movements are synchronized to the breath. This style is sometimes also called flow yoga, because of the smooth way that the poses run together and become like a dance. $14 or co-op rate. 3 Rt 39, Unit #5, New Fairfield. 203-885-0577. WholeFitNF@ gmail.com. EarthFITnf.com/Whole-Fit. Reiki Share – 6:30-8:30pm. First Wednesday. With June and Tracy. Come join our circle of practitioners for sharing and caring and healing. All levels of prac-

eNaturalAwakenings.com

March 2016

ongoingcalendar titioners are welcome. Please RSVP. $15. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690.

Using Smart Body (Kinesiology) for Everyday – 7-9pm. Third Wednesday. Learn how to sense the energy of foods, supplements, books, places and more. Sense what you cannot see and therefore make better choices. Learn how to change energy. Presentation and discussion. $20. Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West St, Newtown. 203-377-6162. Bruce.Zboray@yahoo.com. TrinityProduction.org. Holistic Moms Network Fairfield County, CT Chapter – 7:30pm. Second Wednesday. Associates in Family Chiropractic & Natural Health Care, 156 East Ave, Norwalk. Home.Homewebs.com/ HMNFairfieldCtyCT. 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.

self. $25/drop-in, $85/1 class per week-month. $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690. Kung Fu Classes – 1-2pm & 7-8pm. With Sensei Rich. The ancient of art of Kung Fu is known for its ability to increase mental focus, strength, flexibility and balance and for its self defense moves. $25/ drop-in, $85/1 class per week-month. $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690. Zumba – 6-7pm. Designed to bring people together to sweat it out. Mix of low- and high-intensity moves for an interval-style, calorie-burning dance fitness party. Workout combining all elements of fitness; cardio, muscle conditioning, balance and flexibility. $14. 3 Rt 39, Unit #5, New Fairfield. 203-885-0577. WholeFitNF@gmail.com. EarthFITnf.com/Whole-Fit. CHADD/ADHD Parent Support Group – 7-8:30pm. 3rd and 4th Thursdays. Monthly discussion on parenting child(ren) with an ADD/ADHD diagnosis. Form connections with other parents and gain skills and education to support your child(ren). Free. The Offices of Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-438-4848. DrRoseannInfo@att.net. DrRoseann.com. EFT Tapping Circle Meetup – 7-8:30pm. Second and fourth Thursdays. Come learn about your energy body. Every month will be a different topic or exercise. No experience needed, all are welcome. $15. Location given with RSVP. 203-247-1318.Robin@ RobinFriedman.net. EnergyToolsForDailyLiving.com. Meditating Holistically – 7-8:30pm. With Urgyan, a Western Buddhist lama sharing a rich practice of traditional meditation guidance directed toward holistic integration. Group meditation and discussion, devoted to our mutual innermost truths. $15. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-YOGA or Danbury Area Vajrayana Buddhist Meditation on Meetup.com. Reiki Healing Circle – 7-9pm. Second Thursday. All welcome. Non-Reiki & Reiki practitioners share and experience Reiki. See details on Unity website. Hosted by Gigi Benanti Reiki master/teacher. $20. Unity Center for Practical Spirituality, 3 Main St, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGiGiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com, UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

thursday

friday

Tea and Meditation – 9:30-11am. Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faiths develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way. By donation. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. Info@ ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Thursday Morning Meditation for Moms – 9:3011am. Come and unwind with a Guided Meditative Journey geared to release stress and a healthful more positive understanding of self. $20. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plain St, Bethel. 203-570-3868. Tai Chi Classes – Noon-1pm & 6-7pm. With Tai Chi Master Rich. For all levels of fitness. Known to reduce stress, increase focus and balance. Focus is on purposeful work to improve well-being and

Fire Your Core: Form of Pilates – 8:30-9:30am. Perform core exercises that work both lower and upper abs as well as the obliques, for a complete core workout that will help with stability and balance. $14 or coop rate. 3 Route 39, Unit #5, New Fairfield. 203-885-0577. WholeFitNF@gmail.com. EarthFITnf.com/Whole-Fit. Reiki Share – 9:30-11:30am. First Friday. With JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT. Practice Reiki in a small group setting. Share experiences and help each other develop in a safe, fun environment while providing a wonderful, relaxing, rejuvenating experience. $20. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointReiki.com. Free Mommy & Me Yoga – 10am. With Brooke de Weaver. We supply water and mats - just bring your-

Meditation – 7-8pm. Transform you by healing the chakras through the release of long-held negative thoughts and beliefs, stagnant emotions, and discordant vibrations. Active-style meditation. All faiths and cultures welcomed. Perfect for all levels. By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St (Rt 25), Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@ gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com. Mahasati Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Stamford Positive Living Forum – 7-8:30pm. Second Wednesday. Meetings feature inspirational speakers who aim to introduce you yo happiness boosters and techniques to lead to emotional and physical well-being, happiness and an overall sense of positivity. Free. Innovation Center of Stamford, Old Town Hall, 175 Atlantic St, Stamford. 203-962-1062. Donna.M.Vella@gmail.com. HappinessClub.com.

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

self and your kids. Free. Yogasmoga Townhouse, 68 Greenwich Ave, Greenwich. Student Massage Clinic – 11am-1pm. Relax and enjoy a full-body massage at the Danbury Campus public Student Massage Therapy Clinic. Wednesday evenings or Friday mornings available. $30/50 minutes. RidleyLowell Business & Technical Institute, 24 Shelter Rock Rd, Danbury. Call for appt: 203-748-0052. Intro to Yoga 4-week series with Shannon Aleksa – 12:30-1:30pm. Learn healthy alignment of basic yoga poses that establish the foundation of a safe yoga practice. $99/4-week series (includes one month of unlimited beginner yoga classes). LifePath Yoga & Wellness, 430 Main Ave, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-354-7070. NAntolino@aol.com. LifePathYoga.net. Teen Meditation – 5-6pm. This is an enjoyable approach to the understanding of self and how you fit into the world in which you can grow with confidence. Come and explore a guided meditative journey that helps to melt away stress and anxiety. For teens and up. $15. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plains St, Bethel. 203-570-3868. Intro to Mindfulness Meditation Happy Hour, with Dr. Paul Epstein, ND – 5:45-6:45pm. Develop greater clarity, focus and overall well-being. Learn practical tools to establish your own home practice. $99/4-week series ($30 drop-in per class). LifePath Yoga & Wellness, 430 Main Ave, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-354-7070. NAntolino@aol.com. LifePathYoga.net. Exploring the Chakras – 6-7:30pm. Awaken the 7 chakras using yoga postures, breathing practices, and meditation. Each week will focus on a different chakra, creating inner and outer balance, igniting our spiritual fire, and connecting us to our highest selves. $120/7-class series, $25/individual class. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com. Discussion with Spirit – 7:30pm. Last Friday. Bring questions, receive channeled information to help understand who you are, why you’ve come to the earth plane and empower yourself with messages from Spirit and loved ones. $35. Private residence, Monroe. Information/RSVP: 203-268-3262. Circle of Life – 7:30-9:30pm. Third Friday. Explore topics such as love, trust, permission and forgiveness as tools in navigating through life’s opportunities, losses and changes. Learn how to bring love, life and happiness. Notetaking welcome and encouraged. $40. Bridgeport location given with registration: 203-268-3262. TrinityProduction.org.

saturday Angelic Reiki Meditation with Essential Oils – 8-9am. Receive short, hands-on Angelic Reiki, experience powerful techniques to reduce stress and relax. $10. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave (in the back, downstairs), Norwalk. Pre-register: 203-852-1150. Love Yourself Fit Meetings – 8:30am. Support for your sacred journey of real weight loss. Meetings offer you a place to be accountable to your highest vision for your healthiest self. $15. Insights Wellness Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe. 203-260-9353. ChrisGuerrera@me.com. InsightsWellnessCenter.com. Reiki Mastership Certification – 9am-2pm. Fourth

Saturday. Increase your awareness of Reiki as a spiritual practice. Gain a deeper experience of the extraordinary healing and transformative powers of Reiki. Taught by Beth Leas, Reiki Master, teacher, practitioner with over 25 years experience. Call to discuss. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203856-9566. TLCCenter@aol.com. BethLeas.com. Mahasati 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, Dr. Cummins understands what living with chronic pain and limited mobility is all about. Group provides education, empowerment, understanding and support. Free. Shalva Clinic, 8 Lincoln St, 1st Fl, Westport. 203-916-4600. DrCummins@ShalvaClinic.org. ShalvaClinic.org. Buddhist Teachings & Practice Discussion Group – 11:45am-1:30pm. Second and fourth Saturday. Join a relaxed group, in a tranquil environment, and explore some of the core principles of Buddhist practice. By donation. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 914-763-4639. Jexel@att.net. ReddingMeditation.org. Yoga for Recovery – 6-7:15pm. Join Christy Doyle on Saturday nights for a Yoga for Recovery class, Beginning March 12. $10 donation. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@ NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.

classifieds To place a Classified Listing: $1 per word. $25 minimum. Magazine deadline: 12th of month prior to publication. Email copy to NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com. FOR RENT BEAUTIFUL FT OFFICE AVAILABLE ON 3/1/16 IN MONROE. Very large bright room. Quiet space with waiting room with other professionals in suite with private bathroom and kitchen area. Includes heat, AC, electric and wifi. Call 203-445-8966 or email Msisi@aol.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. LIVING HEALTHIER, INSIDE & OUT. Looking for people searching for a holistic solution to lessen or eliminate the need for pharmaceuticals. No nasty side effects... Only side benefit...free samples! Modonnell.myqivana. com/FreeSample or call 860-382-6698.

communityresourceguide 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 (CRG) in print and online email FFCadvertising@ NaturalAwakeningsMag.com to request our advertising rates. ACUPUNCTURE

BREAST THERMOGRAPHY

ACUPUNCTURE BY JIM FITZPATRICK 3 Hollyhock Ln, Wilton &

Community Health Associates of Newtown, 153 South Main St, Newtown 203-257-4377 JimFitz@AcuJimFitz.com • AcuJimFitz.com I bring years of experience and study to my patients to create a relationship that emphasizes clear communication, responsiveness to a patient’s needs and expectations, and effective care with the totality that TCM has to offer: Acupuncture, Herbs, Adjunctive Therapies.

ALBA THERMAL IMAGING LLC

Safe, painless early detection 71 East Ave, Ste D, Norwalk 203-856-1421 • AlbaThermalImaging.com Thermography can detect breast disease at its earliest stages and monitor and assess pain in any part of the body. Safe, painless, non-invasive, FDA registered.

CHIROPRACTIC PETER BRAGLIA, DC

INGRI BOE-WIEGAARD, LAc

True Health Family Chiropractic 7365 Main St, Stratford 203-923-8633 TrueHealthCT.com

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

Ingri treatments help alleviate Pain, Depression, Neck & Back, Anxiety, Headaches, Stress, Allergies, Asthma, Arthritis, Digestive, Menstrual, Infertility and Smoking & Weight Loss Issues. See ad, page 30.

JODY EISEMANN, LAc

Offices in Norwalk, Southport and Trumbull 203-216-2548 AcupunctureHealingCT.com High quality acupuncture for all. Benefit from the centuries-old and highly effective science of acupuncture and TCM. 25+ years of experience; acupuncture offered in private sessions as well as affordable group settings. Specializing in treating all kinds of pain and general health issues. See ad, page 28.

PATRICIA SINGER, MS, LAc 544 Riverside Ave, Westport 203-226-8897 PatSinger.com

As a Spiritual Alchemist, I use a customized one-on-one approach to connect on many levels to assist in the healing process. Modalities: acupuncture, shiatsu, aromatherapy, dietary therapy, sound and energy healing, ceremony and spiritual counseling. See ad, page 24.

As a member of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association, Dr. Braglia has received advanced training in Pediatric Adjusting and Prenatal Care, including the Webster Technique. We are proud to serve patients from all over Fairfield and New Haven County with our unique and gentle approach to health care.

CHIROPRACTIC RISA SLOVES, DC

Associates in Family Chiropractic & Natural Health Care 156 East Ave, Norwalk 203-838-1555 • CTChiropractic.com Dr. Risa Sloves is 1 of 12 Chiropractic Physicians in Connecticut with Board Certification in Maternity and Pediatric Care including Webster and Bagnell Tu r n i n g Te c h n i q u e s . A l s o provided: acupuncture, BioSET Allergy Elimination Technique and the DRX9000 Spinal Decompression. See ad, page 13.

COLONICS COLONICS

914-921-LIFE (5433) LifelineHygienics.com

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Experience and personalized service you can trust. The finest in colonic irrigation and personal care. Serving the tri-state area since 1993.

March 2016

FLOATATION THERAPY

COLONICS WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC

501 Kings Highway East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com Ready to start feeling healthier? Take your first step with this gentle cleansing procedure. Watch our colonic and detoxification videos on our new video website located at WholeBodyMed.com. Call for Free CD on detoxification. See ad, page 2.

MARY GILBERTSON, MS, BSN,CHHC

iFLOAT

163 Main St, Westport 203-226-7378 iFloatSpa.net Experience this superior form of body/mind relaxation as you float effortlessly in warm water with high concent-rations of Epsom salt. Relieve stress, chronic pain and more. See ad, page 24.

PUREST FLOAT CENTER

CRYSTALS MOTHER EARTH GALLERY

449 Danbury Rd, New Milford 203-775-6272 • MotherEarthCrystals.com The area’s finest crystal shop for natural, polished and tumbled gemstones for healing or collecting. Handcrafted gemstone jewelry, candles, chimes, books as well as a showcase for local artisans. See ad, page 19.

35 Corporate Dr, Trumbull 203-445-6918 PurestFloat.com

Float for stress and pain relief, relaxation and mental calmness. At PuREST we provide a relaxing environment from pre-float to post float. After your float, stay for complimentary tea and come back to earth in our oversize, inviting post float area. See ad, page 38.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

EDUCATION

KURT WAPLES, DC

HOUSATONIC VALLEY WALDORF SCHOOL

40 Dodgingtown Rd, Newtown 203-364-1113 • WaldorfCT.org We develop each child’s unique capacity to engage meaningfully in the world by integrating experiential and artistic learning, academic excellence, respect for diversity and reverence for nature. See ad, page 41.

WESTBROOK NATURE SCHOOL 7 Long Ridge Rd, West Redding 203-664-1554 Info@WestbrookNatureSchool.org WestbrookNatureSchool.org

Bluestone Health Group 47 Oak St, Ste 250, Stamford 203-220-6488 BluestoneHealthGroup.com Specializing in clinical detoxification, fat loss, nutritional medicine, applied kinesiology and neurological-based chiropractic care. Stateof-the-art body composition analysis and physical assessment. Call today to experience the power of natural medicine.

HEADACHE / PAIN RELIEF

Anature-based educ-ation on six acres of trails, streams, and meadows, with an organic garden and natural playscapes. Our curriculum builds physical and emotional resilience, moral awareness and the foundation required for intellectual growth. See ad, page 29.

EXPRESSIVE ARTS SOUL COLLAGE

Zelie Pforzheimer PforzSoulCollage.com • PforzSoul@gmail.com Where Creativity Combining Meditation and Creand Meditation meet ativity leads to clarity in life’s Introduction to SoulCollage® daily issues in a fun and fulfilling way while reprograming your brain for success. SoulCollage uses images found in magazines and books to create small collaged cards to be used as tools for self-inquiry. See ad, page 23.

CONNECTICUT HEADACHE & MIGRAINE RELIEF CENTER/ TOM ANZALONE, DDS

235 Glenville Rd, Ste 2B, Greenwich 203-531-5688 • CTHeadacheRelief.com Connecticut Headache and Migraine Rel i e f C e n t e r ’s (CHMRC) approach to head-ache pain relief actually addresses and treats the sources of the problem. Using techniques that have been proven effective in sports medicine, the CHMRC system targets improper muscle forces in the head, neck, and jaw area that cause painful conditions. See ad, back cover.

Classes held in Wilton CT. $35/class.

Monday, October 5, 10:30 am-1:00 pm Tuesday, October 6, 1:00-3:00 pm Wednesday, October 21, 7:30-9:30 pm All supplies are provided, but bringing a personal journal is suggested.

Zelie Pforzheimer

Certified SoulCollage® Facilitator

To register, visit: www.pforzsoulcollage.com

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

Fairfield County Edition

HEALTH COACH

natural awakenings

Licensed RN, Nutritionist & Certified Health Coach 500 Monroe Tpke, Monroe • 203-521-4733 GilbertsonMary@yahoo.com Prescription4Wellness.com Working 1:1 in groups and corporations to develop customized healthy lifestyle plans. You receive tools to optimize your health through nutrition, disease management, exercise, weight loss & stress reduction. 28 years of experience supporting teens & adults in healthy lifestyle. Available for speaking engagements and health events.!

HOLISTIC DENTIST MARK A. BREINER, DDS, FIAOMT

501 Kings Highway East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-0300 WholeBodyDentistry.com Dr. Mark A. Breiner is a pioneer and recognized authority in the field of holistic dentistry. With over 30 years of experience, he is a sought after speaker and lecturer. His popular consumer book, Whole-Body Dentistry, has been sold world-wide. See ad, page 2.

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

Fast, effective methods for weight, stress, fear, pain, smoking, etc.   Certified Hypnotherapist, Thought Field Therapy, Time Line Therapy, NLP and Complementary Medical Hypnosis, since 1989. See ad, pages 3 & 18.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PHYSICIAN HENRY C. SOBO, MD

Optimal Health Medical, LLC 111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-348-8805 DrSobo.com Dr. Sobo provides Natural Horm-one t h e r a p y, We i g h t R e d u c t i o n programs, IV Vitamin/Minerals treatments, Allergy evaluation and treatment, Fibromyalgia care, and treatment for a wide variety of problems utilizing an Integrative Medicine approach.

INTEGRATIVE NATURAL MEDICINE SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER Ken Hoffman, DAc, (RI), LAc, CCH, Medical Director Bruce Roff, LAc, LMT, Senior Associate Craig Pannone, ND 31 Old Rt 7, Brookfield 203-740-9300 • INM.center

Using naturopathic and Chinese medical principles, we get to the source of your health concerns. Diagnostic methods include functional testing such as advanced bloodwork analysis, cardiovascular testing, hormone evaluation and thermography. Our customized treatment program includes acupuncture, herbal and nutritional medicine, diet and lifestyle counseling and more. Most insurance accepted.

INTEGRATIVE OPTOMETRY EYECARE ASSOCIATES, PC

Randy Schulman, MS, OD, FCOVD, Stephen Carr, OD, Narvan Bakhtiari, OD, Brian Rodrigues, OD, Jason Rutherford, OD Locations: 6515 Main St, Trumbull • 203-374-2020 444 Westport Ave, Norwalk • 203-840-1991 2600 Post Rd, Southport • 203-255-4005 CTEyeCareAssociates.com We offer behavioral optometry, comprehensive vision exams, contact lenses and vision therapy. See ad, page 17.

INTUITIVE CONSULTANT KIMBERLY TAYLOR

Crystal Visions, Inc. 1 Rt 37 East, Ste 2, Sherman 860-210-9897 CrystalVisionsCT.com Kimberly is a psychic medium and intuitive. Readings consist of childhood experiences, present personal and professional relationship paths and future outcomes of major life decisions. Kimberly can also be a conduit for lost loved ones. See ad, page 10.

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

MOBILE FITNESS & WELLNESS BRAMASOLÉ FITNESS AND WELLNESS CENTER

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 19.

MASSAGE SCHOOL

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

Bramasolé is a unique mobile fitness and wellness unit. Can’t get to the gym or yoga studio? I come to you! Services include yoga, meditation training, Reiki, massage, Tai Chi and personal fitness. Studio hours also available.

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN

FINGER LAKES SCHOOL OF MASSAGE

NATURAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER

272 N Bedford Rd, Mount Kisco, NY 914-241-7363 FLSM.com Join us for a transformative experience as you develop your intuitive and scientific abilities to heal through therapeutic touch. Classes taught to auditory, visual and kinesthetic learners. Financial aid available for full and part-time programs.

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

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, allnatural healing modalities and treatment options to treat acute and chronic conditions, restore balance and treat the mind, body and spirit. Specialists in endocrine disorders, digestive issues, pain management and chronic fatigue. We offer comprehensive solutions to prevent illness and maintain optimal health for body, mind and spirit.

MARVIN P. SCHWEITZER, ND

We t e a c h a n d p r a c t i c e 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.

Wellness Institute 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203-847-2788 DrMarvinSchweitzer.com

Family Health Care using all natural therapies for 25 years. Acupuncture, Bio-Identical Hormones, Homeopathy, Chinese/Western Herbs, Allergy/Toxin Testing, Oxygen T h e r a p y, M e r i d i a n S t r e s s Assessment, Nutrition/Enzyme Therapies. See ad, page 11.

SHALVA CLINIC, LLC

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

eNaturalAwakenings.com

March 2016

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN

ORGANIC MATTRESSES & BEDDING

DR. MARINA YANOVER, ND, LAC 1720 Post Rd East, Ste 213, Westport 203-255-5005 BigAppleHealth.com

THE CLEAN BEDROOM

Naturopathic Medicine, Acupuncture, Craniosacral Therapy, Natural Face Lift using microcurrent therapy. Specialties include Family Medicine, Women’s Health, Endocrinology, Gastroenterology, Pain Man-agement, Skin Care. Insurance accepted.

79 East Putnam Ave, Greenwich 203-292-9275 • 866-380-5892 TheCleanBedroom.com The Clean Bedroom is an organic and all-natural mattress and bedding resource with seven showrooms, including its new location in Greenwich. Through its showrooms and web site, eco-minded shoppers gain insight to create a healthier sleep environment. See ad, page 5.

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC

Adam Breiner, ND, Director Elena Sokolova, MD, ND David Brady, ND, CCN, DACBN 501 Kings Highway East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com Using state-of-the-art science combined with centuries-old healing modalities, our caring naturopathic doctors correct underlying imbalances and address issues which may interfere with the body’s ability to heal itself. Treatment protocols or therapies include: Abdominal Manual Therapy, Acupuncture, Allergy Desensitization, Chinese Medicine, Colonics and other Detoxification Protocols, Electro-Dermal Screening, Energy Medicine, FDA-cleared P h o t o t h e r a p y, F u n c t i o n a l Medicine, Herbal Medicine, H o m e o p a t h y, H o r m o n a l Balancing, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Metabolic Typing, Nutritional Assessment, RealTime EEG Neurofeedback and other therapies. See ad, page 2.

NUTRITIONAL COUNSELING NUTRITION RESCUE

Jessica Moon, MS 66 Glenbrook Rd, Ste 300, Stamford 203-979-6181 • Jessica@NutritionRescue.net NutritionRescue.net Facebook.com/NutritionRescueCT Jessica uses a comprehensive approach for working with individuals and families. Specializing in dietary management of food sensitivities/allergies and providing support with elimination diets, menu development, and minimizing the impact of food restrictions.

Fairfield County Edition

PSYCHOTHERAPY

JILL BADYRKA, MFT & REIKI MASTER In-Home Marriage & Family Therapy For Families, Children, Couples, and Individuals 203-218-0194 JBadyrkaMFT@gmail.com

In-home services inspire healing, balanced with client well-being and comfort. Specializing in trauma, parent-child relationships, divorce, life-coaching, selfempowerment and inner peace. Holistic and strength-based. Now accepting Saturday appointments for therapy and Reiki. See ad, page 10.

MARIA C. CASTILLO, MSW, LCSW 238 Monroe Tpke, Ste B, Monroe 203-445-8966 Msisi@aol.com LifeBetweenLivesTherapy.com

Past Life Regression, trained by Brian Weiss, MD. Life Between Lives Hypnotherapy, trained by TNI and Michael Newton, PhD. Traditional psychotherapy with a spiritual approach; Reiki. Connect with your soul self and let your inner wisdom guide you.

CHRISTINE GUERRERA, LMFT

PsychoSpiritual Therapy & Coaching InsightsWellnessCenter.com 203-260-9353 • ChrisGuerrera@me.com Non-traditional holistic sessions to free and empower yourself on your path of healing and awakening with a blend of psycho-spiritual therapy, energetics and universal wisdom.

natural awakenings

HARMONY OF THE MIND, BODY, & SOUL, LLC

Anasta Kydes, MA, NCC, LPC, ACSM, CPT (Licensed Psychotherapist and Certified Personal Trainer) 91 East Ave, Norwalk 203-318-4514 • AnastaKydes@yahoo.com A client centered approach is taken in a supportive, non-judgmental, empathetic, and compassionate environment. I teach coping skills to help manage life’s challenges and incorporate exercise and meditation upon your request to help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress. See ad, page 53.

ROBIN ORDAN, LCSW

Family, Child, Individual & Couples Therapy Old Greenwich/Stamford 203-561-8535 • RobinOrdanLCSW.com Robin has more than 18 years of experience working with families and children. Specializing in Divorce, Parent/ Child Conflict, Grief, Attachment/Bonding, Child Development and Parenting. See ad, page 61.

DENI WEBER, MA, LPC, D-CEP

Holistic Psychotherapist Comprehensive Energy Psychology Fairfield County 203-544-6094 • DeniWeber.com Within a supportive, empathic relationship Deni guides individuals on their journey of selfdiscovery integrating psychology, Eastern medicine and spirituality to heal suffering from traumatic stress related to chronic illness, disabilities, abuse & PTSD.

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

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

TURNING POINT REIKI, LLC

SHAMANIC PRACTITIONER

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

HUNTER HEALING HANDS

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.

RIVER’S EDGE REIKI

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

ESSENCE HOLISTIC CENTER

Kimberly Joyner 246 Federal Rd, Ste C 23B, Brookfield 203-733-0595 EssenceHolisticCenter@yahoo.com Mind, body and spirit are the focus of all of our treatments. We believe in individual treatment options based on a client’s personal needs. We offer many forms of holistic care from massage to Reiki to cleansing as well as Thai stretch, hypnosis and herbal treatments.

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 20.

KURE SPA

Lori Haggerty Usui Reiki Master Bethel • 203-994-8978 RiversEdgeReiki.com

430 Main Ave, 2nd Flr, Norwalk (Wilton Line) 203-857-1500 Kure-Spa.com

TRANSFORMATIVE HEALING

Feeling the negative effects of a high stress life? Illness, unhappiness, exhaustion? Experience the power of Reiki and how it can restore you physically, emotionally and spiritually. Sessions for adults, children and senior citizens (geriatrics is my specialty!). Reiki training classes offered for all levels. See ad, page 39.

BETH LEAS

Transformative Healing • Tarot Offices in Norwalk & Ridgefield 203-856-9566 BethLeas.com • TLCTarot.com If not now, when? Inspire change on all levels - greater physical ease, emotional freedom, peace of mind and spiritual connection. 20 years intuitive healing experience with adults and children of all ages. Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tarot. See ad, page 25.

ROLFING/STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION WESTPORT ROLFING

Kaia Yoga Studio, Westport and Fairfield near Merritt exit 46 Sachi: 203-216-9720 Sachi@WestportRolfing.com Mikel: 203-216-9770 Mikel@WestportRolfing.com

Kure Spa rovides a place for people to rely on as part of their weekly routine to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Experience our 4-Pillars of Health for 30-days and we’ll transform your life to one of Health, Healing & Vitality! Offering Vibrosaun, massage, and an organic juice bar. See ad, page 3.

NATURAL BEAUTY SPA

4154 Madison Ave, Trumbull 203-502-8503 Natural.BeautySpa@hotmail.com CTNaturalBeauty.com We specialize in today’s latest skin rejuvenation. Anti-aging and acne treatment, massage, facials, hair removal, acupuncture, lymphatic drainage, VelaShape for cellulite treatment and more.

BRILLIANT SOUL Carla Barzetti Newtown 203-364-6262 BrilliantSoul.com

Providing Rolfing Structural Integration to Fairfield County. We provide soft tissue manipulation and movement reeducation for postural, functional and chronic pain issues with offices in Westport and Fairfield. See ad, page 9.

Your brilliant soul heals you physically/mentally /emotionally/spiritually through my CranioSacral Therapy/SomatoEmotional Release, Ki/Pranic/ Reiki Energy, channeling, soul contract info/clearing, pure essential oils & Crystal chakra bowls!

WELLNESS CENTER

CODY SMOLIK, LLC

Offices in Fairfield County; Park Slope, Brooklyn, NY; Greenville, SC Cody.Smolik@gmail.com Cody-Smolik-Rolf-SI.com • 917-544-4412

7EFIT SPA

Advanced Rolf Practitioner/ Structural Integrator – align and transform the body via the fas-cial system. Ease pain, chronic injury, scar tissue (burns); gain resilience, flexibility, improve balance and movement. Structural Integration offers long lasting results.

1492 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-356-5822 7eFitSpaCT1@gmail.com 7eFitSpa.com 7eFit Spa offers a variety of aesthetic services and non-invasive 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 ad, page 7.

SALTANA CAVE

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

SALT OF THE EARTH THERAPEUTIC SPA

Fit 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 transformations, healing and grounding for Mind, Body and Spirit. See ad, page 10.

A new way to looking and feeling good.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Relax while our technology

March 2016

COSMIC RHYTHMS by Alethea Hunt

hemes of health and illness permeate March with a plethora of Pisces planets opposing Jupiter and the North Node in Virgo. Health issues become magnified and possibly distorted; could something “healthy” actually do more harm than good or veer overboard into a form of addiction? There is a hazard of taking healthrelated information out of context now and winding up sick(er) because of it; keep a proper wellness perspective so you can see the forest for the trees. A little misapplied information can be problematic, so be cautious about partaking of something that is theoretically good for you but might not be right for your specific body or application. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to wellness; what’s beneficial for one may not work with another’s constitution. Introspective reflection about what is—and more importantly, what isn’t—working on the health front is generally favored over seeking out a “guru”. Keep immune systems healthy too as this could be a bad end to flu season; incorporate good quality sleep as well since rest and relaxation are equally important components of well-being. A solar eclipse on March 8 in prophetic Pisces says keep both feet on the ground if utilizing intuitive faculties with Jupiter and Saturn’s involvement. Beliefs can either support or hinder and there may be some hazards to “magical thinking”; if you’re wishing for something, put a plan in place as well to see it realized. Nothing wrong with daydreaming, but stay anchored with tangible efforts to avoid being carried downriver now. Overall, it’s a “God helps those who help themselves” vibe so remember to put the work in. Fantasies may also be checked via some hard truths, especially from a feasibility standpoint. Avoid denial, because the ensuing troubleshooting can actually shore up any structural weakness in that vision. And remember that sometimes a firm and repeated spiritual “no” in response to prayers just might be for your own good. There are “tests of faith” overtones at work, so can you still trust the infinite wisdom of the Universe—even if you don’t get exactly what you hoped for. Jupiter and Pluto make contact all month (exact March 16); look for opportunities for positive, large-scale transformation, whether they are health, wealth, or work-related. It may not be one huge thing but many small parts that coalesce into something bigger; start with the minor, mundane, logistical stuff as this energy is more akin to a gigantic yet gradual systematic renovation or overhaul. It may even be more about taking away versus adding something to your diet, budget or something else. Mid-month, Saturn and Uranus interact. The key is taking responsibility for our own growth and happiness by self-initiating change. Saturn also squares Jupiter throughout the month (exact March 23), potentially blocking expansion, limiting opportunity or presenting via some hard lessons—growth comes primarily through discernment now. This is especially evident circa March 20-25 when Venus mixes in. Love and money matters require extra caution then since judgment can be “off”. A lunar eclipse in Libra on March 23 brings relationships and our feelings about them to the fore. This is a very action-oriented moon, so feelings may push you to do something about a union around this time. Whatever move is made regarding a union, being motivated by “the grand scheme of things” and a desire for growth should be the compass. A practitioner of Western Tropical astrology, Alethea Hunt has been practicing for more than 17 years. Connect with her at 203-9176312, Alethea@EmpoweredDestiny.com or EmpoweredDestiny.com.

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Sunday, March 6th 2016 @ 11:30am

HEALTH AND WELLNESS FAIR Get a Fresh Start on Spring!

The Health and Wellness Fair will feature many wonderful holistic therapies, vendors, workshops and readings. General Admission is $5 and the Workshops are $8. LOCATION: The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Road, Bethany CT For more information go to: www.bit.ly/FairNHHCC

Thursday, March 24th 2016 @ 6:30pm

Learn about The Graduate Institute's Master's, Certiicates and Coach Training Programs at this Information Session. TGI is exible and aďŹ&#x20AC;ordable for adult professionals seeking to make an impact and live the life they always promised themselves. Location: The Graduate Intitute, 171 Amity Road, Bethany CT

To learn more and Register Visit www.learn.edu/events

To learn more and Register Visit www.learn.edu

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