Natural Awakenings Fairfield County April 2011 by Natural Awakenings Magazine

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Listening to Your Inner Wisdom Maria Castillo, MSW, LCSW Holistic Psychotherapist and Hypnotherapist Maria Castillo is recognized as a leading authority in the fields of spiritual psychotherapy, hypnosis and past life regression. Drawing on the wisdom of many spiritual teachers and techniques for more than 25 years, Maria will help you connect with your Higher Self — your eternal Soul. Explore mindfulness, meditation, positive thinking, self hypnosis, past lives & more! LifeBetweenLivesTherapy.com.

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contents 16

7 newsbriefs 16 ecobriefs 22 wisewords 24 fairfieldgreen 28 globalbriefs 44 healthbriefs 47 fitbody 50 greenliving 54 consciouseating 58 healthykids 59 calendar 66 classified 67 resourceguide

advertising & submissions how to advertise To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 203.885.4674 or email FFCadvertising@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com. Deadline for ads: the 12th of the month. Editorial submissions Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com - click on “Submit Editorial” at the top of the page. Deadline for News Briefs: the 5th of the month. calendar submissions Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com - click on “Submit Calendar” at the top of the page. Deadline for magazine calendar listings: the 5th of the month. Website calendar listings may be entered at any time. regional markets Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 203.885.4674. For franchising opportunities call 239.530.1377.

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

22 Environmental &

Community Call to Action A Conversation with Dan Levinson

24 Feeney Farm:

A New Local Model to Address Hunger & Health for Those In Need

30 Energy Medicine

Conquering Allergies:

No Shots, No Drugs, Non Invasive Allergy Testing by Mark Joachim

34 Ed Begley, Jr.’s

Green Home Makeover Saving Energy and Cutting Waste is a Family Affair

by Brita Belli

38 Sustainable Land Care Insight & Advice from Chris Baliko

42 “Health Starts Here” at Whole Foods Market by Jennifer L. Nelson

47 Eco-Workout

Easy Green Tweaks Save Money by Linda LaRue

48 Natural Treatments

For ADD/ADHD by Michael E. Doyle

54 Salad Lovers’ Salads Signature Dishes from the Garden or Farmers’ Market by Judith Fertig

63 A Billion Acts of Green Celebrating Earth Day 2011

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58 April 2011

letterfrompublisher

contact us Publisher/Managing Editor Carolyn Aversano Editors Patricia Horan Linda Sechrist Cris Ann Mulreed Design & Production Erica M. Mills Sales & Marketing Carolyn Aversano Joseph Pacelli Leana Cipolla Natural Awakenings Fairfield County Phone: 203.885.4674 Fax: 203.516.2392 Carolyn@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

Welcome to our Green Homes & Gardens issue. As the weather turns beautiful many of us turn our attention to Spring home renovation, gardening and landscaping projects and inside this issue you’ll find great inspiration and resources to get you started. This month we also celebrate the planet with Earth Day events happening all throughout Fairfield County – see our Earth Day events calendar on page 63. It’s great to Carolyn Aversano see this list growing every year! This month’s Natural Connections Night on April 20 will be an Earth Celebration hosted by Beach Recovery Café in Norwalk, where local green businesses and organizations will be on hand to offer advice and exhibit the latest earth-friendly options. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with the people of Japan. I had an interesting experience as we were just finalizing production of this issue. One of our readers emailed in, asking if we would support Socks for Japan, a start up operation with the mission of providing socks to those in need. I have to admit, my first reaction was to decline, and I began typing out that response, feeling that we’re supporting Red Cross efforts because in a crisis of this scale we felt that they are best equipped to execute support in Japan. Our production of this issue really was 99.9% finalized, and I will also admit that the thought did pop into my mind, “With all that’s going on there…socks??” But as I was typing, something made me click on the web link, SocksForJapan.com, and it really touched me. Such a small act, and if this group can get aid directly to the people along with a personal note just letting them know they are cared about by people far across the world, that could be a priceless gift during this time of great uncertainty. The site makes it clear that this effort is not advocated in lieu of efforts such as the Red Cross, it’s just a specific need that has been cited by local officials. I’m told that the Japanese people are known to treasure personal letters, especially from foreigners. Yet I think the reason I was so touched by this effort is that the opportunity to send a personal note is as much a gift as receiving the note – it fills a deep need that many of us are feeling, to connect in our shared humanity with the people of Japan in their time of need. Check out SocksForJapan.com - you might be surprised by your own reaction as well.

eNaturalAwakenings.com © 2011 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.

Natural Awakenings is printed on post-consumer recycled paper with soy-based ink.

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newsbriefs Lecture Offers Hope for Fibromayalgia and Chronic Pain Sufferers

n Thursday, April 21 Dr. Scott Bender is presenting a lecture about a highly effective treatment for Fibromyalgia and chronic pain. Participants will learn more about the causes of these chronic conditions, and the new research that has shed light on how to diagnose and treat patients with Fibromyalgia and chronic pain syndromes. Dr. Bender will focus on a gentle, drugfree, and natural approach Scott Bender called Atlas Orthogonal which has helped thousands of patients regain their health. “Patients are often not diagnosed properly, or early enough, leading to an increase in pain, and dependence on medications to manage their lives. If you, or someone you care about has Fibromyalgia, or is suffering ongoing pain in the head, neck, or lower back, don’t miss this lecture. It will change your life!,” Bender states. Dr. Bender is a Board Certified Atlas Orthogonal Chiropractor, and has been in private practice for 16 years. He is the director of Connecticut Spine and Health Center in Stamford, and he is Vice President of the Trauma Imaging Foundation, an interdisciplinary group of physicians dedicated to proper diagnosis and treatment of conditions arising from injury to the spine. This April 21 dinner lecture will be held at Madonia Restaurant,

1297 Long Ridge Road, Stamford. Limited seating - to reserve your space call 203.967.8888. For more information about Dr. Bender and his practice, visit ConnecticutSpineAndHealth.com. See ad pg 71.

Free Intro to Detox Program

he Naturopathic Health Center, LLC, with locations in Shelton and Sandy Hook/ Newtown, is hosting a free one-hour seminar introduction to their Ten-day Metabolic Detoxification Program on Tuesday, April 26, announce naturopaths Dr. Alice Bell and Dr. Carolyn Graham. Learn how the body eliminates Drs. Alice Bell and Carolyn Graham toxins, how to improve the liver’s ability to detoxify and the benefits of detoxification. The detox program is scientifically designed and includes targeted nutrition, a modified elimination diet, simple exercise, and basic recommendations for stress management. Research suggests that many health problems may be associated with daily exposure to the chemicals found everywhere these days. Over time, the buildup of toxins in the body can be sickening. Detoxification, or cleansing, is the most exciting tool in natural medicine for its simplicity, low cost and superior therapeutic results, says the Center. “It’s actually fun and you feel an increase in energy and fewer bothersome symptoms almost immediately on this ten-day Program,” say the Center’s naturopaths. While we may have limited control over our environment, we have a

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April 2011

Onus Tribus ~ Onus Domus

A Holistic Healing & Education Center

Weight management and Detox programs, Infra Red Sauna treatments, Ionic Foot Bath, Lymphatic Drainage Massage, Acupuncture, Voice Mapping. Meditation, Breath Work and Movement. Groups & Individual Classes. Eastern & Shamanic Energy Healing, Reiki, Cranial Sacral, Flower Essence. Sundays: Free meditation class and movie for our ONE TRIBE ~ ONE HOME movement towards our divine light .....& love.

great deal of control over our own bodies. By taking action now, we can start to feel re-energized soon. The first eight participants will receive 25% off the Ten-day Metabolic Detoxification Program (a $110 value for $82.50). Discount expires April 15. Seminar will be held at 415 Howe Avenue, Ste. 307, Shelton, at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday April 26. To reserve, call the Naturopathic Health Center, LLC at 203..922.0029. NaturoHealthCenter.com. See ad pg 17.

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une Fagan and Tracy Mignone, owners of Kindred Spirits, have moved to a new location in Redding, and are celebrating by offering $25 off all healing sessions for the month of April. The change in location has provided them with the opportunity to expand their horizons throughout Fairfield County, and they are now able to provide services to individuals and groups in a multitude of settings. In addition to offering programs through other Holistic Centers, Community Centers, and so on, they can provide in-home sessions and workshops. Fagan and Mignone are practitioners as well as teachers of many healing modalities, including Reiki, Rising Star, Prema Birthing, Mahatma Infusion Therapy, Light Language, Intuitive Readings, Buddhist Chanting, among others. They have had the privilege of training with and becoming certified by Master Spiritual Teachers and Healers Roland Comtois (USA), Brook Still (USA) and Derek Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neill (IRE). Kindred Spirits is now located at 59 Ledgewood Road, Redding. For more information on Kindred Spirits and its upcoming events, phone 203.938.3690 or visit KindredSpiritsCenter.com. See ad pg 12.

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Conference Calls, Business Meetings…and Massage?

just be the wave of the future. It is a win-win situation.

our calendar shows a full agenda for your day at the office—conference calls, meetings, massage. Yes….massage. A specially designed portable chair allows Massage Works to offer on-site chair massage to local Fairfield County businesses and private events. Participants are fully clothed, and usually receive a tento-fifteen-minute session. In this economic market, companies are looking for low-cost ways to reduce health care costs and to improve employee performance, thinking outside the box to find innovative, creative ways to save time, money and offer something new and fun. Massage therapy is a low-tech, lowcost and highly effective solution. The National Institutes for Health conducted a study on fifteen-minute chair massages in the workplace that showed massage increased productivity and mental alertness, boosted morale, lowered stress levels and reduced work-related injuries and absenteeism. All of this adds up to a cost-effective wellness program. Local facilities that are embracing the benefits of chair massage run the spectrum, from large corporations such as Goodrich and Cartus, to nursing homes, small companies and private events. The sessions can be set up as a regularly scheduled program or as a one-time “perk” at a special event or wellness fair. Chair massage may

Call Massage Works at 203.894.1714 or visit MassageWorksLLC.com. See ad pg 20.

The Swing’s the Thing at Nu~Yoga This Spring!

olf is a mind/body sport and yoga is a mind/body practice. Nu~Yoga in Norwalk knows that yoga is the ideal way to prepare the body, mind, and golf swing for this coming season. It’s that simple! Sally Grillo, RYT, has a long history in golf. She grew up playing and knows that golf is an inner and outer sport. “Proper alignment and a positive mindset are crucial for golfers and yoga is the way to connect to both.” She designed a complete mind/body program that supports golfers in every way. Through her own yoga practice, Sally discovered how her mind traveled far from the present moment. “Many times these thoughts aren’t true, she says. They create tension and they inhibit our movement. These thoughts keep us from swinging the club freely.” The Yoga for Golf program at Nu~Yoga offers skillful yoga align-

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April 2011

ment and techniques that apply to the golf swing. Sally guides her students to ‘recognize and feel’ tension in the body, and to release it, to enable the golf swing to flow naturally. The Yoga for Golf series begins on April 14 at Nu~Yoga Studio. The last class is held at Oak Hills Golf Course as a golf lesson on the course with Sally’s husband, PGA professional, Vincent Grillo. Contact Sally to sign up: 203.854.6744. For more information visit Nu-Yoga.com. See ad pg 15.

World T’ai Chi & Qigong Day April 30

n Saturday, April 30 practitioners of T’ai Chi and Qigong will gather on the Milford Green to celebrate the 12th Annual World T’ai Chi & Qigong Day. Teachers and students from schools throughout Fairfield and New Haven counties will join with others in 50 states and 65 nations on 6 continents to form a wave of healing breath around the world. The public is invited to discover a variety of T’ai Chi and Qigong forms from 10 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and experience the power of “qi” (energy). Some of the schools offering demonstrations are Aiping Cheng T’ai Chi & Qigong School of Orange; Char Marie, L.Ac., Acupuncture and Qigong Healing of Milford; Qi & Tea of Milford; The Flowing Motion of Fairfield and Bridgeport; Qigong for Health of Fairfield; and Wudang T’ai Chi of Stamford.

“World T’ai Chi & Qigong Day provides a unique opportunity to share the beauty and healing power of a variety of styles of ancient Chinese healing and martial art practices,” stated Lamont Thomas, a member of the committee organizing the local festivities. “There will be everything from traditional T’ai Chi Chuan, Integral Qigong and T’ai Chi for Kids to lesser known forms of Qigong, ancient practices that promote health, mental focus and vitality.” Come enjoy the day’s good energy! The event is free and open to the public. For more information on World T’ai Chi & Qigong Day around the world visit WorldTaiChiDay.org. For local information call 203.843.1595.

The Natural Choice – The Breiner Whole-Body Health Centre Caring naturopathic physicians offering the best in holistic healing Our integrative approach treats a wide range of conditions including: ADD/ADHD Allergies Anxiety & Depression Autism Brain Injuries Candidiasis Chronic Fatigue (or Fatigue Concerns) Difficulty Concentrating Female Concerns Fibromaylgia

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

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

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

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Mashed Potatoes to Cure Pain?

aybe you are the one who cannot start the day without painkillers. Or you are the one who collapses in pain every night. Many pain sufferers get their blissful life back with the help of Yan Ting and her mashed potatoes. Yan Ting, Doctor of Acupuncture, is not an ordinary acupuncturist who depends solely on the needles to make patients feel better. She uses different “secret” physical medicine recipes, involving mashed potatoes, to bring a faster Yan Ting result and a long recovery to her patients. “Potatoes can remove stagnation in the perspective of Chinese Medicine and, when combined with the right herbs, potatoes are more than just food,” says Yan. Being raised in a family that integrates Chinese Medicine principles into its everyday living, Yan is the only one in the U.S. who holds the secret of how to turn the potatoes from merely a hearty food into a healing tool. If you are bothered by pain and are afraid of needles, this is certainly great news for you. In addition to her healing talents and her think-outside-theneedles approach, Yan’s passion, confidence, sense of humor, and empathy have touched a lot of patients, leading them to walk out of Yan’s office with a big smile. Yan has two offices located in Westport and Danbury. Find out more at 2003Watts.com or contact Yan at 203.558.6169. See ad pg 39.

Melanie Barnum’s New Teleclasses

Melanie Barnum

or those looking to blossom on their own schedules this spring, Melanie Barnum, Certified Hypnotist, Intuitive Counselor and Life Coach, is now offering teleclasses. She notes that hypnosis is widely accepted for weight loss, and her new Hypnosis Weight Loss Teleclasses utilize a combination of healing modalities, coaching techniques and intuitive guidance to help transform body, mind and spirit. “These teleclasses offer an embarrassment-free

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option,” Melanie says of the new weight loss program. “The best part is you can call in on your schedule to retrieve the hypnosis session. There is no obligation to be on the actual phone call at the designated time.” Other new teleclasses include “Manifest Your True Desires” and “Psychic SymbolsWhat Do They Mean?” Both are based on the premise that you have everything you need to propel yourself forward in life. They will incorporate hypnosis, intuition and exercises from her upcoming The Book of Psychic Symbols: How to Interpret and Apply Messages From the Other Side. For more information about her holistic services, teleclasses and new easy pay options, visit MelanieBarnum.com or call 203.451.0914. Melanie Barnum, CH, is located at 77 Danbury Road, Ridgefield. See ad pg 39.

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Kindred Spirits A Center for the Mind, Body & Soul NEW LOCATION in REDDING, CT JTKindredspirit@aol.com

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Peter Yarrow at Friends of Autistic Benefit

riends of Autistic People (FAP) will hold a “Help Us Build the Farm” event on May 4 with Peter Yarrow of Peter, Paul and Mary fame. The event will raise funds for a prototype Green Farm Academy for adult children with autism. It will be a living and learning innovative teaching facility, where adults with autism can live, enjoy nature-based education, work alongside peers and mentors, and thrive. The Farm is planned as an organic farm that will include animal-assisted therapy programs with rescue Peter Yarrow horses. Friends of Autistic People is dedicated to bringing about an environment where adults with autism can be assured of receiving high-quality care and assurance after they turn twenty-one. The event will take place on May 4 at a Greenwich waterfront home, with food by Thomas Henkelmann, and will include silent and live auctions. For information and RSVP, please phone 203.661.8510 or email FAP.Autism@gmail.com. Visit AutisticAdults.com.

Natural Connections Night on April 20 in Norwalk

oin our growing community committed to holistic wellbeing and ecofriendly living by attending Natural Awakenings Natural Connections Night, hosted monthly by a local business. Meet area practitioners and green experts. Learn about services and products geared toward living a healthy, balanced lifestyle, and make like-minded personal and professional connections. This month it’s an Earth Celebration at Beach Recovery Café in Norwalk on Wednesday, April 20. The Café is an eclectic mix of the laid back vibes of a beachside home with the vibrant energy of a Chelsea art gallery – complete with massive paintings from NYC artists, an Adirondack-style firepit, and eco-accessories for sale - all within the cozy confines of a SoHo inspired coffee nook. The Café supports the efforts of Beach Recovery, LLC, a sustainable development company that specializes in reversing coastal erosion and uses profits to fund other organizations and efforts aimed at protecting the planet. The Earth Celebration will feature photographer Samantha Brustin, who will speak about her newest exhibit, Human Nature, and Beach Recovery’s latest efforts to keep our shores safe and beautiful. Local green businesses and organizations will on hand to offer advice and exhibit the latest in earth-friendly products and services. Refreshments will be served in the café.

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e x t m o n t h ’s Natural Connections Night will be hosted by the Stamford Museum & Nature Center on Wednesday, May 18 from 6 to 8 p.m. Join us for a Vegetable Gardening workshop led by Will Kies. As Director of Education at SMNC, Kies is in charge of the Nature Center and Heckscher Farm, where over 50 varieties of fruits and vegetables are planted in their organic garden. This workshop offers the beginner or advanced gardener a wonderful opportunity to learn from this local expert, while also experiencing the beautiful working grounds of Heckscher Farm. These events are free. The April 20 event is from 7 to 9 p.m. at Beach Recovery Café, located at 542 Westport Avenue, next to Bow Tie Cinemas in Norwalk. To RSVP for either of these events, call 203.885.4674. Space is limited. See ad pg 33.

Have news to share? Email submissions to: FFCeditor@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

by April 5

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How to Create a Healthy Home

n their newly released b o o k , Th e H e a l t hy Home: Simple Truths to Protect Your Family from Hidden Household Dangers, co-authors Dave Wentz and his microbiologist father, Dr. Myron Wentz, uncover the health hazards lurking in the average home and offer simple, effective ways to create a healthier place to live. Studies by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency indicate that indoor air is often two to five times more polluted than outdoor air. “Every second of every day, we face an onslaught of unnecessary dangers—toxic chemicals, negative energies and unforeseen side effects,” advises Dave Wentz. Culprits include chemicals in carpets, paints and common cleaning products, as well as radiation from Wi-Fi, cell phones and other electronic gadgets. The Healthy Home walks readers room-by-room through a typical house, pointing out hazards—many of them surprising and counterintuitive—and offering easy-to-implement fixes. The book blends science with practical tools and explanations in layman’s terms. Each chapter begins with a quiz that enables readers to assess their current lifestyle; the more points they accrue, the more toxic their home is. Every chapter concludes with a series of simple solutions, including point values that make improvements easy to achieve and measure.

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Join authors Dr. Myron Wentz and Dave Wentz on April 11, 2011 at Lincoln Center’s, Alice Tully Hall, 1941 Broadway, NYC. Book Signing 6 to 7 p.m. and Performance 7:30 to 9 p.m. The Healthy Home is available at bookstores and online; for information visit MyHealthyHome.com. See ad pg 32.

April’s Awaken Wellness Fair Is “Best Yet”

he Awaken Wellness Fair returns to Ta r r y t ow n o n April 16, and organizer Paula C a ra c a p p a o f PPC Group, LLC, says this year’s event promises to be the best yet, with more than 100 exhibitors and speakers on hand to introduce alternative ways to get and stay healthy. “My mission is to educate the public about the many effective and varied wellness practices that are available beyond the old-fashioned attitude of ‘take a pill’ or ‘cut it off,’” Caracappa says. Among the exhibitors at Awaken Wellness Fair will be Merrill Black, who will discuss the benefits of hypnosis and lead a group hypnosis session with audience members, and certified

life coach Diane Ingram, who will explain the concept and practice of living a purposeful life. Other exhibitors will include Bonnie’s Herbals and Chanson Water, with information on how alkaline water hydrates the body, increases energy, eliminates “brain fog,” and boosts overall wellness; painter Linda Richichi, presenting her channeled Soul Portraits, which reveal an image of the subject’s higher self; and Sound Shore Ayurveda, who will share information about the 5,000-year-old system of Indian medicine, determine doshic balance, and answer health-related questions. The Awaken Wellness Fair will take place 10 a.m to 6 p.m. at the Doubletree Hotel in Tarrytown, NY. For more information, visit AwakenFair.com. See ad pg 21.

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he 2nd annual Body Mind Beauty Expo© returns on Thursday, May 5 at Midtown Loft and Terrace in NYC. Sponsors include Whole Foods Market and Bare Escentuals Cosmetics. Some of the exciting highlights include 40 + exhibits on natural health products and services, goodie bags, henna tattoo, facials, massages, a free interactive demonstration area, healthy food and snacks and much more.   Body Mind Beauty Expo© is a national organization that aims to provide like-minded women an opportunity to unwind, have fun and get educated about health, wellness and beauty. “I am honored and excited to produce the Body Mind Beauty Expo and look forward to a wonderful evening with friends and meeting new ones,” says Julia Lopez-Motherway, producer. Tickets are available for free at BodyMindBeautyExpo.com or $5.00 at the door. This event is sponsored by Natural Awakenings magazine. For more info about Body Mind Beauty Expo, call 516.431.1934 or visit BodyMindBeautyExpo.com. The Expo will be held on Thursday May 5 at Midtown Loft and Terrace, 267 Fifth Avenue (corner of 29th St) from 3 to 10 p.m.

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Women’s Leadership for a Green Economy Earth Day Network’s new campaign, Women and Green Economy (WAGE), is engaging female executives in business, government and nongovernmental organizations to take leadership of the emerging global green economy. “Currently, women are not present in very many top international negotiations on climate change and the green economy,” says Earth Day Network President Kathleen Rogers. “We aim to change that equation.” Women such as Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Christiana Figueres, executive secretary of the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change, are among those now leading key efforts in the climate and renewable energy discussion. “It is essential that our most talented and driven women come together to fast-forward the green economy,” says Rogers. With the world’s women making 85 percent of all consumer choices, they are in a commanding position to lead the way to a sustainable world. WAGE creates a road map for women to aggregate their power and promote their leadership in such issues. Earth Day Network’s supporting goals are to help prompt national and international initiatives that will promote the green economy, secure education and job training opportunities for women and channel green investment to benefit women. Learn more and join in via the Programs menu at EarthDay.org.

Paint America Green

New Program Certifies Green Painters New Living, of Houston, has launched the country’s first training program to educate painters about workplace health, environmentally sensitive industry practices and long-term protection of indoor air quality for consumers. “Painting has been one of the most toxic and polluting sectors of the construction industry,” says Daniel Wurm, with the nonprofit GreenPainters Australia, which is partnering with New Living to green the industry. “Not only has it led to contamination of water after cleaning up and off-gassing into the atmosphere of poisonous and unhealthy chemicals, but it has also contributed to health issues.” It all starts with consumer demand for the use of lowVOC (volatile organic compound) paints and heat-reflective coatings in homes and offices. Find a local certified green painter at GreenPainters.us or email GetGreen@NewLiving.net.

Fairfield County Edition

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America’s 10 largest publicly traded homebuilders have started to improve their environmental policies and practices, but much progress remains to be achieved, according to the latest Survey of Sustainable Practices by the Homebuilding Industry, by Calvert Asset Management Co. KB Home, based in Los Angeles, and Pulte Homes, of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, were ranked as the top industry firms. Calvert reports that out of 42 possible green data points, the average total score was just over six points, or 15 percent. Without the top two companies in the mix, the average overall score would have been less than 6 percent. Green building represents a major industry opportunity. “Whereas two years ago, the industry had not yet begun to embrace sustainability as a core part of building design and construction, companies today have taken many meaningful steps toward developing greener and cleaner homes,” says Rebecca Henson, a sustainability analyst at Calvert and co-author of the report. “However, given the environmental impact that homebuilding has, the industry has significantly more progress to make.” Companies are most active in energy efficiency and conservation, paying more attention to sustainability issues that can offer short-term financial benefits to operating costs and customers, such as building material recycling and energy and water efficiency measures. Issues with long-term benefits, such as climate change, are not well addressed.

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The Green Music Group, an international coalition of musicians, industry leaders and fans, is leveraging its collective power to bring about widespread environmental change within the music industry and around the globe. Primary goals include reducing the music community’s environmental footprint and magnifying support for environmental nonprofits. Founded by Guster band member Adam Gardner and environmentalist Lauren Sullivan, it’s a project of Reverb, an organization that has spread its eco-friendly message on 80 major music tours, to reach 10 million fans in its first six years. Founding members include the Dave Matthews Band, Maroon 5, The Roots, Sheryl Crow, Bonnie Raitt and Willie Nelson. Get with the program at GreenMusicGroup.org.

Cashing In

College Students Annually Repeat Recycling Bonanza When Lisa Heller Boragine discovered that college students moving out of their dorms dump tons of perfectly good stuff that wind up in landfills, she organized her nonprofit Dump & Run. Now, schools across the country are corralling leftover belongings and getting them into the hands of people who will give them a second life. She recently helped Brandeis University, in Waltham, Massachusetts, organize a collection drive and sale that netted more than six tons of items from departing students. Clothing, food and bedding went to local charities. Mini-fridges, desk lamps and plastic storage containers were sold to incoming students, with proceeds benefiting on-campus sustainability efforts. Boston College’s Cleansweep program makes it even easier; students simply leave their excess stuff in their rooms, to be collected by volunteers. Bowdoin College, in Brunswick, Maine, prefers to focus on generating cash for charity via massive yard sales, one of which recently yielded $40,000. “It’s a win-win-win,” remarks Keisha Payson, Bowdoin’s sustainability coordinator. “The housekeepers like it because there is less stuff to deal with; the community likes the great bargains; and students like it because they feel bad about putting stuff in the dumpster.” For information, visit DumpAndRun.org or call 508.579.7188. Source: The Christian Science Monitor

Fairfield County Edition

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ecotip Natural Awakenings Celebrates Earth Day Every Day

$ave Earth

Eco-Driving Pays Big Subtle changes in driving habits can produce significant benefits, saving money at the gas pump and reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Practicing moderate levels of eco-driving typically reduces fuel use by an average of 15 percent. (Maintaining properly inflated tires adds 3 percent more.) Here are best practices for green driving in honor of Earth Day, April 22. Avoid Rapid Starts and Stops – Jackrabbit starts and stops use more fuel. Gentle acceleration and smooth braking, especially around corners, can save $1 per gallon, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), improving fuel economy by up to 33 percent. Keep on Rolling – Slow-and-go is always better than stop-and-go, because maintaining a constant speed in congestion increases fuel economy; it can take 20 percent more fuel to accelerate from a full stop than from 5 miles per hour. Anticipate stops and coast when possible. Ride the Green Wave – Traffic lights are often synchronized so that a motorist driving at a specific speed will pass through many without needing to stop, delivering better fuel efficiency. Limit Air Conditioning – Air conditioning can reduce mileage by as much as 20 percent. When driving below 40 mph, opening windows is best. At over 40 mph, closing windows and using A/C is better, because it avoids aerodynamic drag on the vehicle. Also use the “recycle inside air” feature to capitalize on already cooled air. Maintain Optimum Highway Speed – The EPA estimates that in highway driving, every 5 miles over 60 mph is equivalent to paying 20 cents per gallon extra for gas. Staying below 60 mph can improve mileage by 7 to 23 percent.

Use Cruise Control – Tests conducted by Edmunds.com found that using cruise control to maintain a steady speed during flat highway driving can provide an average of 7 percent in fuel savings (less in hilly terrain). Navigate to Reduce Carbon Dioxide – Planning driving trips, including errands, saves time and increases motor vehicle efficiency. Electronic navigation helps find the shortest route to an unknown destination. Avoid Idling, Even to Warm Up the Engine – According to the Environmental Defense Fund, autos may burn 20 to 70 percent of a gallon of fuel for every hour spent in curbside idling (the equivalent of 0 mpg). For trucks, it’s a full gallon. Unless quickly dropping off or picking up someone, turn the engine off when waiting for more than 10 seconds. It won’t harm the starter. Even on the coldest mornings, engines warm up more effectively during actual driving (but avoid quick acceleration). Don’t step on the gas pedal before starting the car. Keep Your Cool – The interior of a vehicle can reach 120 to 130° F in 10 minutes in summer. Use a heat reflector or window shades to shield the interior from UV rays. Always roll down the windows to release hot air. It’s best to park in a garage or available shade. Obey the Check Engine Light – Today’s sophisticated onboard diagnostics systems continually monitor vehicle operation. When the alert light comes on, it may indicate that emissions have increased and fuel economy is going down, so always check it out. Source: Adapted from EcoDriving USA.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

April 2011

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wellness fair DoubleTree Hotel, Tarrytown NY • April 16, 2011 from 10 am to 6 pm

It’s tIme to trade WInter for Wellness… Relax, Refresh and Rejuvenate! Attracting people from all over the Tri-State area, the Awaken Wellness Fair is Westchester County’s most exciting, longest running and best-loved wellness event! One day can make all the difference — as you activate your mind body and spirit in a setting designed to help you get in touch and stay in flow. Meet dynamic speakers, exhibitors and holistic practitioners who specialize in health, healing, relationships, higher consciousness, and sustainable living. Explore modalities from reflexology, massage, and past life regression to aroma therapy, psychic

readings and soft laser treatments. For yourself, your family and your friends, you will also find invaluable, healthy, spiritually fulfilling, and environmentally sustainable products to help you on your journey of healing, growth and green living.

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April 2011

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Environmental & Community Call to Action A Conversation with Dan Levinson of Green Village Initiative

an Levinson is the leader and financial benefactor of Green Village Initative, which he funds through his private equity firm, Main Street Resources. He co-founded the organization in 2008 to provide funding and support to individuals and organizations passionate about creating local environmental and community change in Fairfield County. It’s an ever expanding work in progress, but by all accounts he is succeeding in that mission and the results are impressive. Yet it’s the personal rewards that have gone far beyond anything he or his members could have imagined, that make this organization so compelling – and effective.

garded. My mom took their success and spent her life helping others – she had us marching on everything in NYC in the 60s. Two of my siblings, older than me, had a rough time in the 60s and my dad, a psychiatrist, did his best to hold it all together. I went to an experimental school in NYC thru 8th grade that was highly integrated based on the teachings of Martin Luther King, Jr. and it had a farm in the Catskills where I spent 3 to 4 weeks a year. Somehow I always knew I would spend the first half of my life living up to my grandparents and the second doing something that really matters. It feels soooooo good to be doing what I’m doing now.

What were the major influences in your life that led up to establishing Green Village Initiative (GVI)?

Why Fairfield County, and how has GVI evolved since its inception?

I was lucky to have several powerful influences when younger – it just took me 40+ years to integrate them! My grandfather was an immigrant businessman and my grandmother was a creative philanthropist – both extremely successful, self-made and highly re22

Fairfield County Edition

The formation of GVI was inspired by the September 2008 Westport Bag Ban, a local ordinance, which overnight caused us to think that maybe this area might be getting back to its historical liberal leadership roots and might become a model. Central to our model is local action, which I learned a lot about

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from Susan Witt, Director of the E. F. Schumacher Society in the Berkshires (now called New Economics Institute). Since inception, we have been on fire – gaining members, completing projects and including other towns at a rate far in excess of what anyone expected.

GVI has produced great results to date. How do you account for that? There are several things core to our strategy that I think have contributed: (1) we are a good mix of business resources and skills, and literally “saints”, who have been doing nonprofit work in this region for decades; (2) we are project and action-oriented, which attracts great people who want to cause real change; (3) we focus on community-building across many issues rather than just one (such as water protection or energy reduction or local food) which brings more people to the process; (4) we are consensus-builders and problem-solvers here for the long term and treat everyone with respect and appreciation; and (5) we are a real community and people who spend time with us become friends and family and learn and grow from the experience – and many people are hungry for that.

What criteria do you use in selecting your projects? We like to take on local, tangible, specific projects related to environmental and community building. The key is for projects to start with a knowledgeable, passionate project leader. It’s easy to get a great idea – but it takes real commitment to accomplish things. We value these project leaders above all else – because they bring the energy and personal commitment - and the whole organization rallies around them bringing whatever help and support we can to them and each project.

What are GVI’s key projects currently underway? • We started Wakeman Town Farm & Sustainability Center about a year ago. After renovating the buildings and bringing in Mike Aitkendhead, Staples High School Environmental Teacher who now lives on and oversees the farm, we are launching programming next month including homesteading classes, and CSA/RSA offerings. • We have brought together the many water protection organizations in the region and have launched a huge ten-year project to clean up Westport harbor. Eco-Fest occurs annually in the Spring which features 5+ high school bands at the Levitt Pavilion to raise environmental awareness. • We will employ 30+ interns this summer between the farm and Sherwood Island Nature Center for quality job/ study opportunities. • We have an ongoing educational film and lecture series (we’re bringing Anna Lappe, founder of Small Planet Institute, to Westport to speak in April) and are helping to create a summer program at the Westport Art Center entitled The

GVI Speaks Out ogether we have built a community “T garden in one of the worst sections of Bridgeport, an edible school garden

Artist and His Environment plus a show at the Westport Historical Society on farming called Back to Our Roots. On and on – too many to mention here - our website GoGVI.org has a complete and ever growing list.

What are you doing in Bridgeport? I’m glad you asked that. Our model calls for “activating” a few wealthy, creative towns and then turning their awesome people and resources on a neighboring, more needy town – in this case bringing Westport, Weston, Ridgefield, Fairfield, etc. – to focus on Bridgeport. We have committed to installing edible gardens in each of the 30 public schools in Bridgeport and we hope to do the first half in the next two to three months. Meanwhile we are assembling a group of local CEOs with the goal of starting and supporting worker and community-owned businesses. Our efforts have been led by Karen Sussman who brings incredible local knowledge, energy, tremendous humor and a no BS approach. We have found working in Bridgeport to be faster and easier than expected – and we are thrilled to be doing something that might help there. For more information visit GoGVI.org.

where 75 members of the school community showed up to help on the day of the garden construction, and we are in the final stages of building a replica of the Michelle Obama garden at the main branch of the Bridgeport Public Library. I wish I could say that my only motivation for the work that we are doing in Bridgeport is to enrich the lives of the people there, but in truth, my motivations are at times very selfish, as I am the one that has been most enriched by this experience.” ~ Karen, Fairfield VI has banded together an incred“G ibly talented group of people around the idea that simply doing your

best is all that is required - with an emphasis on doing! No judgment. No competition. No town borders. All heart.” ~ Claire, Ridgefield ’d spent the past 10 years educating “I people about the effects of chemicals on children’s health, and trying to make

people more aware of reducing their global CO2 footprint. The years had been frustrating and I felt like the proverbial “lone voice in the wilderness”. Then I met Dan Levinson and joined GVI. Not only have I been brought together with caring, energetic and brilliant people concerned with the environment, but because of the tremendous generosity and guidance of Dan I am now making a significant difference in improving both the environment and people’s lives. I hope to continue working with Dan and GVI for the rest of my life. ~ Marty, Westport he difference with GVI is that we “T just act, spurring each other on to stay the course in the direction dictated

by the whole. We find out what needs to be done and we do it. That’s all.” ~ Monique, Westport aving cleared out my car to drop it “H off for service at the gas station, I had a pile of my GVI compost series post-

ers in my arms. A young guy that works there started asking me what the poster was for and it became quite obvious he knew more than I did on the subject. Then another customer walks in and joins the conversation. And another and another! One was a hardware store owner, one a mechanic, another a landscaper. Each one offered to take a poster and put it up in their store. I was sitting in this wonderful, greasy, forgotten little corner of my world exchanging ideas about permaculture, edible gardens, methane recapture systems and composting methods with complete strangers! So amazing how passion for a cause cuts across not just town borders but all borders and reduces us all to the important values we share.” ~ Claire, Ridgefield

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April 2011

fairfieldgreen Be the solution. Get involved. Support your local, eco-friendly businesses.

Feeney Farm: A New Local Model to Address Hunger & Health for Those In Need We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give. ~Winston Churchill

or anyone who has ever wondered if they can make a difference in the world, Fairfield County resident Margaret Feeney exemplifies the positive impact and possibilities of one individual choosing to take action. Though news stories tell of millions of people around the world unable to afford food, and how malnutrition is on the rise, we often see this problem as one of other nations not affecting our region. Yet, according to Margaret, local statistics show “Hunger and food insecurity are more prevalent than we realize in Connecticut. One out of seven of our neighbors do not know where their next meal is coming from.” These numbers include those

Fairfield County Edition

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affected by such strains as unemployment, underemployment, and poverty. Seeking to diminish this statewide problem, Margaret founded Feeney Farm, a 501(c)(3) organization whose vision is “to create a consistent supply of healthy food for Connecticut families in need, alleviating hunger and decreasing the occurrence of chronic diseases linked to food insecurity.” By working with local farms, schools and corporations to create a system that increases supplies at food banks and community programs, Feeney Farm addresses and reduces food insecurity in this region. “Food insecurity” refers to limited or uncertain access to the nutritious provisions necessary for a healthy

lifestyle. Occupants in households that are food-insecure may live in hunger or fear of starvation. The mental and physical changes that accompany stress and inadequate nutrition can have harmful effects on development, productivity, physical and psychological health, and family life. Factors such as inconsistent eating patterns (e.g.: starvation-binge cycles), inability to obtain nutrient-dense foods (such as fruits and vegetables), and the need to resort to inexpensive, calorie-laden cuisine as the only affordable source for fighting hunger can cause

One out of seven of our neighbors do not know where their next meal is coming from. severe problems. Among these is that food insecurity increases a person’s risk for substantial and chronic health problems like heart disease, obesity, diabetes and cancer. Additionally, those living in poverty tend to have difficulty securing quality health care. Without altering this increasing pattern of food insecurity, the future of the nation’s health care system would likely be compromised, with rising costs for everyone. So how did Margaret, as one individual, find her way to addressing this crisis and making a difference? After losing her father to pancreatic cancer in 2006, she began learning more details about the essential nature of a healthy diet for preventing disease. To honor her father’s life, last spring she began harvesting fruits and vegetables in her mother’s back yard and donating the produce to local cancer survivors.

That way, they were assured access to nutrient-dense foods that could help enhance their well-being. Because her yield was small, Margaret negotiated with local grocers to have them donate their excess produce to her mission. Upon learning how widespread the problem of food insecurity is in Connecticut, she began partnering with local growers to procure their extra yield, and scheduled more regular pick-ups from the grocers, as well. As often happens when someone pursues their passion, one door opened to another. What had started as a small personal family tribute expanded into a larger philanthropic endeavor. In the inevitable interweaving of personal, local and global, this growth necessitated the involvement and unity of the broader population. Feeney Farm’s effect on the sense of community in the area (and vice versa) is seen in multiple ways, with people “coming out of the woodwork” to offer support. Margaret continues to work with local growers and sellers willing to donate surplus produce, and also organizes school and office food drives, all of which benefit local food assistance agencies. Though all types of food donations are welcome at these drives, the focus is on acquiring healthy nonperishable items, such as whole grain rice, peanut butter, canned vegetables and fruits, tuna, and beans. Feeney Farm also provides nutritional information (including health benefits and simple recipes for typical food distribution items) that can be easily disseminated among those served by the local food banks and pantries. Death can give a clear picture of the reality that life is short. Motivated by her personal grief, Margaret utilized

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April 2011

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Saturday, April 30th, 2011, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Fairfield Ward High School, Fairfield, CT

FREE admission This year’s Earth Day event will feature an array of exhibitors from local residents and organizations to businesses that are leading and supporting green initiatives which are laying the ground work and creating a green infrastructure in Fairfield.

Join Us at Fairfield’s Earth Day Celebration For: • Local Green Initiatives • Great Food, Music & Magic • Activities for Kids

• Eco-Friendly Transportation Exhibit • Green Products & Services

Fairfield's Earth Day Celebration Features: • Open Space Acquisition • Energy Management • Water Pollution Control Improvements • Wetlands Management • Comprehensive Recycling • Resource Recovery • Alternative Fuel Vehicles

• Local Electric Generation • Solar Powared Initiatives • Energy Education Programs • Saco Creek Watershed Restoration • Tree City Designation • Local Green Initiative

new awareness acquired from her experiences and chose to make a difference by giving to others. She speaks with tremendous gratitude for those who offer assistance with this venture and have enabled its expansion. These combined efforts help ensure that thousands of Connecticut residents have a more consistent supply of nutritious fare so they can become food-secure and decrease their risk of chronic illness. Inspiration often leads to creativity and innovation. Margaret has been moved and influenced by others who help people in their immediate communities to stay fed and healthy, such as City Harvest in New York. In turn, she hopes the processes of Feeney Farm will be replicated by others, or help motivate action toward a greater good. There is a quote along the lines of “Nobody can do everything, but everyone can do something.” Margaret’s advice about the first step for any individual wanting to get started? Simply follow your heart. Feeney Farm is now fundraising for its 2011 operations and will be holding a series of food drives to increase food availability to Fairfield County citizens in need. If you, your school, company or organization are interested in hosting a drive, making a donation, or volunteering for upcoming projects, email Margaret at info@feeneyfarm.org, or visit FeeneyFarm.org.

2011 Wild & Scenic Environmental Film Festival in Norwalk

fairfieldearthday.org 26

Fairfield County Edition

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iverse films from around the world that focus on protecting natural resources and wild places will be featured during the 2011 Wild & Scenic Environmental Film Festival On Tour, hosted by the Norwalk Seaport Association on Friday, April 15. This year’s event includes an after-school screening from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. plus an evening screening from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. During both screenings, attendees will view films with humor, adventure, extraordinary scenery, inspiration and more. Films that will appeal to students have been selected for the after-school screening. They range in length from 1-15 minutes. The $10.00 after-school admission fee includes a special film festival membership in the Norwalk Seaport Association. Refreshments will be served at the evening screening. The admission fee of $25.00 for individuals and $40.00 for couples includes door prize tickets and a special NSA film festival membership. All films were selected from the 2011 Wild & Scenic Environ-

mental Film Festival. The festival is produced by the South Yuba River Citizens League and held each January in Nevada City, CA.

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The Film Festival will be held at the Dolce Norwalk Center. Reservations can be made on-line at Seaport.org or by calling 203.838.9444. Directions and a description of all of the films are on the web site.

Learn Dangers of GMOs at Healthy Habit

atch A Healthy Habit Cafe and Pro Mindful, Inc. will feature Jeffrey Smith, the leading speaker in the world on the topic of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) on Thursday, April 28. Jeffrey Smith has Jeffrey Smith convinced more people to avoid GM foods than anyone in the world, and his Institute for Responsible Technology has launched a national network of NonGMO Action Groups designed to stop GMOs. The American Academy of Environmental Medicine now urges all doctors to prescribe diets without any genetically modified foods. Find out about the serious health dangers of GMOs, and how scientists who discovered the dangers were fired, gagged and threatened. Learn how to avoid GMOs and, most important, find out how we can eliminate GMOs from our food supply quickly. Get up to date with this unprecedented threat, and consider taking steps that will protect you and all future generations. Catch A Healthy Habit, Fairfield County’s only raw food café, is committed to bringing cutting edge information to their customers through documentary screenings, hosting speakers who are leaders in their fields, raw-food prep classes with the best chefs in the country, as well as building community through potluck dinners and special events such as chocolate parties, live music and more. This event will be held on Thursday April 28 at 7 p.m. at the Community Film Institute, 1424 Post Road in Fairfield. Fee is $20. Contact Glen at Catch A Healthy Habit Cafe at 203.292.8190. Visit CatchAHealthyHabit.com. See ad pg 28.

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April April 2011 2011

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

Relax...and discover the direction of your inner compass. We have created the ideal space and location to help you take a much deserved break from the “doing” and practice “being.”

Clinical Massage Therapy Acupuncture • Hypnosis Yoga • Chi Fit • Qi-Gong Tai Chi Easy • Health Workshops

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Compact, walkable communities, the opYoga • Chi Fit • Qi-Gong posite of poorly planned sprawl, are the Tai Chi Easy solution to some of our biggest shared Acupuncture • Hypnosis challenges, from childhood obesity to Health Workshops social isolation; vehicle crash deaths to disappearing farmland; and costly fuel to the architectural blight of strip development. The concept is also a powerful weapon against climate change, because people naturally replace driving with Relax...And discover the walking when their basic needs are direction of your inner compass. close to their front door. Such cities also We have created the ideal space are fun, lively and memorable places of and location to help you take a human interaction and inspiration. much deserved break from the WalkScore.com ranks the largest 40 U.S. cities and supplies a walkability “doing” and practice “being.” score for any U.S. residential address, based on density, mixed use, transit, short blocks, public spaces and pedestrian-friendly 635 design. Most important is the numDanbury Road, Ridgefield, CT ber and kinds of destinations (including schools, workplaces, amenities) 208.403.2522 near each address, which are the strongest indicators of whether people walk. Fortunately, www.move2wellness.com even the least walkable cities generally have some walkable spaces. Visit WalkScore.com to score any home address and pull up a map of what’s within walking distance.

To dwell is to garden.

Easter Eggs

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Don’t Pay More for Fraudulent Labels

39 Unquowa Rd Fairﬁeld 203 292 8190

ORGANIC & RAW FOOD Gluten & Dairy Free Thur. 4/14 free screening 6:30 “The World According to Monsanto” THUR. APRIL 28th “Donʼt Put that in your Mouth” Jeffrey Smith “GMO” Expert For Hours & to view the menu visit www.catchahealthyhabit.com

“Unlike beef, chicken and other dairy labels that must be approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, egg labels fall through the cracks,” reports Richard Wood, executive director of Food Animal Concerns Trust (FACT). “This loophole enables egg producers to freely use any language they choose to describe their products, regardless of accuracy.” The resulting consumer confusion is producing healthy, possibly fraudulent, profits, via steep markups. FACT recommends that people know the farmer that supplies their eggs and inquire about hen care. At the grocery, only trust the USDA Certified Organic seal or labels approved by the American Humane Association, Humane Farm Animal Care or Animal Welfare Institute. “Vegetarian fed,” “grass-fed or pastured” and “omega-3 enriched,” while positive, don’t guarantee the quality of animals’ living conditions. According to FACT, terms such as “free-range,” “cage-free” and “natural” may be loosely interpreted and offset by other inhumane practices, unless one knows the producer. Source: FoodAnimalConcerns.org

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Safety Tips for Reusable Bags

While using reusable cloth shopping bags is good for the environment, taking sensible precautions will ensure it is also good for our health. Health

Canada (hc-sc.gc.ca) states that with more consumers choosing to carry reusable shopping totes, it is important to employ food safety practices to avoid the risk of cross-contamination and food-borne illness caused by dirty bags. Foods like raw meat, poultry and fish, as well as fresh produce, can contain or carry bacteria, viruses or parasites that cause illnesses. Be sure to wrap fresh or frozen raw meat, poultry or fish in a clear plastic bag first, and then carry them in a sepa-

rate shopping bag, away from the rest of the family groceries. When reusing cloth or plastic bags, the Canadian agency recommends that we wash them frequently with natural soap and hot water, especially after carrying fresh produce or meats. After cleaning the bag, allow it to dry completely before storing it. This prevents mold from growing inside the bag. Finally, if a bag gets too soiled or stains cannot be removed, it’s better to part with it than risk getting sick from using it again.

Psychic

Intuition

Psychics have been part of the world culture and history for as far back as Nostradamus. Janet Lee has been doing readings in Connecticut for over 20 years and she has had many stories written up about her and her work in Connecticut and was featured on the front page of the Greenwich Times and the NY Times and the NY Post. Janet Lee is a part of most local charities and non-profits in Greenwich. So if you’re looking for answers in love, marriage, business, health or if you’re just lost and need a look ahead, Janet can guide you through all of life’s difficulties. If you’re looking for fun – then Janet is not the intuitionist for you. All readings are private and confidential.

“I take great pride in what I do and my job here on earth is to guide people to their path and with my wisdom and knowledge I’ve met and helped wonderful people.”

Call today for your reading and experience what the power of knowledge can do for you in your journey through the vision of Janet Lee.

Janet Lee (203) 629-0155 eNaturalAwakenings.com

April 2011

Clinics Your Partners in Health and Wellness

The UB Clinics, located on the campus of the University of Bridgeport, are staffed by some of the brightest and most talented healthcare professionals of the future. Open to the public, the UB Clinics offer affordable, high-quality care at a fraction of the cost of comparable treatments elsewhere. • Naturopathic Medicine • Dental Hygiene • Chiropractic • Acupuncture Call our UB Clinics at 203-576-4349 to take advantage of this unique healthcare opportunity located in your own backyard. Or visit www.ubclinics.org

Energy Medicine Conquering Allergies:

Health Sciences Center, 60 Lafayette Street, Bridgeport, CT 06604

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4/6/10 4:58 PM

No Shots, No Drugs, Non Invasive Allergy Testing by Mark Joachim

o you or someone you know suffer with ‘allergy’ symptoms? Have you been told your tests were normal and yet, you still suffer? And even if you know your allergies, are you tired of relying on shots or drugs? What if I told you there is a non invasive computerized testing and treatment method based on traditional Chinese medicine which has the capability of discovering your allergies and neutralizing their effect? Discovering blockages in your energy system can allow you to return to being allergy free. Welcome to the world of bio-energy medicine and electrodermal testing. Everyone is familiar with allergies, or hypersensitivity to a substance as documented by medical testing. However, some sensitivities are not easily recognized or detectable. Have you heard of an electromagnetic allergy? Since 1982, Cyril W. Smith, M.D. studied the effect of electromagnetic fields on humans and how our internal regulatory systems can be set into chaos by minute quantities of chemicals or energy fields. According to Dr. Smith “the pattern of allergic responses is the same whether the trigger is chemical, environmental, nutritional or electrical.” Electrical, you may ask? As stated by one Dr. Hartman, ND, PhD, DHM, “Everything that exists is a form of energy – you, the neighbor’s dog, a tree, a rock, a table…[on a microscopic 30

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

level] the underlying structure of all life is in constant motion…What essentially distinguishes us from a table or a rock in the garden is our energy’s rate of vibration.” Electrodermal screening diagnoses disease by measuring electrical resistance on the skin. It detects energy/electrical shifts or imbalances at the points or channels of the body known to acupuncturists as meridians. Imagine every cell moving at a certain rate or frequency. All the cells vibrate at their own rate and then combine to form molecules of varying frequencies. Ultimately, the rate at which a cell vibrates is the sum of its components. As these cells combine they form different components of your body. When electromagnetic vibrations are disturbed in any part of the body, (e.g. organs like the heart, lungs, stomach, or systems such as immune, digestive, or respiratory) the result is dis-order or dis-ease which causes dis-function. Scientific terminology for this phenomenon is “incompatibility of frequencies.” Over time, the dis-function will cause your body to express different types of signs and symptoms. Immune system disturbance affects your body’s ability to combat the environment and disruption of the digestive tract predisposes you to food sensitivities or allergies. Therefore, being able to detect any energetic disorder is of extreme importance. In the 1940’s one of the pioneers in this area was Dr. Reinhold Voll from Germany. He was interested in combining the principles of Quantum Physics and traditions of Chinese Medicine. Throughout years of research, Dr. Voll made numerous discoveries. He learned that when an organ’s function or structure changes, the performance of the related me-

ridian on the skin surface also shifts, and this electrical action could be measured with a specific device. After discerning the body’s ability to conduct energy, he further observed that the device’s readings of healthy patients fell within a certain range that was different than those who had conventionally diagnosed diseases. Disturbance in any tissues and organs showed in the corresponding meridian points being tested. Dr. Voll also noticed that when a patient held a sample of a certain remedy in their hand and was tested again the readings indicating an energy imbalance could improve. Current researchers continue this work. In 1985, S.G. Sullivan and her UCLA School of Medicine colleagues reported in the American Journal of Acupuncture that patients with lung disease, confirmed by chest x-ray, had 30% lower electrical conductivity skin surface readings at corresponding lung meridian points. Research showing organized electromagnetic fields (or bio-fields) extend from our body and intelligently interact with the environment has been performed worldwide by scientists such as German biophysicist Fritz Popp, Ph.D., William Tiller, Ph.D. (Stanford), Valerie Hunt, Ph.D. (UCLA) and former NIH adviser and founder of Temple University’s Center for Frontier Sciences, Beverly Rubik, Ph.D. What occurs with electrodermal screening? Assessment of the body’s energy meridians is performed while you sit at a desk with a computer. You hold a small metal bar “connecting” you to the computer. The other hand is used for the actual testing. A pen-like stylus (not a needle) is utilized as an energy receiver and, when gently applied to different acupuncture points on the hand, will record the electrical

eNaturalAwakenings.com

April 2011

energy readings and any change in dynamics between the points being tested. Through these skin-level measurements, it is possible to analyze the bio-energy and information produced by your internal organs and systems. Findings are recorded and examined on the computer. Results indicate if there is an imbalance or disruption of energy in the body, which may suggest sensitivities or intolerances to certain food components, foods or environmental items. It can tell: • The functional status of meridians and their related organs, systems, or functions, whether they are stressed, balanced, or weakened, and by how much. • Which specific nutritional products will rebalance meridians. • If a product you have in hand will bring you to balance. • If you have specific sensitivities to foods, molds pollens, etc. • If you have spinal misalignments interfering with your meridian energy flow, and, if so, their location. Initial testing, which can also be performed on children, lasts up to one hour and follow up sessions are approximately twenty minutes. What amazes patients is that this method of discovering and addressing allergies occurs without the use of shots, needles or medications.

Healthy Home Healthy Body with Dr. Christiane Northrup Dr. Christiane Northrup, New York Times bestselling author, women’s wellness pioneer and one of the world’s most respected authorities on women’s health invites you to join her for

Creating Health and Prosperity with Team Northrup.

FREE ADMISSION RSVP at www.teamnorthrupNYC.com.

Fairfield County Edition

Enter to win books and door prizes

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Dr. Mark Joachim has used this technology for over a decade to determine food and environmental sensitivities. He offers a free consultation and works with BioSet allergy elimination technique when results show an imbalance. Dr. Joachim is located at 156 East Avenue in Norwalk. Call 203.838.1555 or visit AllergyEliminationNorwalk.com (free ebook download available), or EliminateMy-Allergies.com. See ad pg 13. References used in this article: What Is Energy Medicine and How Can It Benefit Me? BioSET Newsletter, March 2002 Dr. Ellen Cutler. Energy Medicine: The Scientific Basis. Oxford, England: Churchill Livingston, 2000. James Oschman. Jane Hartman, ND, PhD DHM. Radionics & Radiesthesia. Placitas,NM. Aqurian Systems, 1999. Tom Klaber, High Technology Meets Ancient Medicine, Alternative Medicine, March 2002. 92-106.

You’re Invited Natural Awakenings Magazine FREE Natural Connections Night This month:

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 20 • 7 - 9 p.m.

at Beach Recovery Cafe • 542 Westport Avenue, Norwalk • BeachRecovery.com This month it’s an Earth Celebration featuring photographer Samantha Brustin, who will speak about her newest exhibit, Human Nature, and Beach Recovery’s efforts to keep our shores beautiful and safe. Local green businesses & organizations will be on hand to showcase the latest earth-friendly options. Refreshments will be served in the café.

Each month you will have a new opportunity to: • learn about a variety of healing modalities and eco-friendly options • meet holistic practitioners and green experts • share wisdom and gain more insight into local options for wellness and life balance • engage in an opportunity to market yourself or business, ask questions and share information • be part of a growing community of individuals dedicated to wellness and greener living

Next Month: WEDNESDAY, MAY 18 • 6 - 8 p.m. Stamford Museum & Nature Center hosts us for a Vegetable Gardening workshop at Heckscher Farm, where over 50 varieties of fruits and vegetables are planted in their organic garden. All gardener levels welcome. Learn from the experts and experience the beautiful working grounds of Heckscher Farm. StamfordMuseum.org.

To RSVP or for more info call 203.885.4674

eNaturalAwakenings.com

April 2011

Ed Begley, Jr.’s

GREEN HOME

MAKEOVER Saving Energy and Cutting Waste is a Family Affair

by Brita Belli

d Begley, Jr., widely regarded as America’s most environmentally aware actor—the one by which other green celebrities are measured— has never tired of the years of effort he and his family have made in making their home as green as possible. But this past year, his wife, Rachelle Carson-Begley, had had enough. She isn’t fed up with turning off lights or relying on solar power—she’s just grown weary of the home’s tiny closets and sharing one small bathroom between two adults and a soon-to-beteenage daughter, 11-year-old Hayden. While Rachelle played the disgruntled foil to the over-achieving eco-cop Ed on their former television show, Living with Ed—which aired for three seasons, first on HGTV and then on Planet Green— her problems with their modest 1936 34

Fairfield County Edition

home in Studio City, California, are those to which most homeowners can relate. For example, cramped rooms make entertaining difficult. The home’s 1,600 square feet of main living space (plus an additional 600-square-foot room above the garage) does not easily accommodate the fundraisers the Begleys regularly host; not to mention the camera crews that routinely invaded the family’s day-to-day lives to capture the couple’s good-natured squabbles over everything from composting to conserving water and energy. For seven years, the family even ran a nontoxic cleaning business—Begley’s Best—out of their garage, adding to the mêlée. “Even if it were designed differently, it would be better,” Rachelle explains. “It’s just that it’s a 1936 house. Yes, it’s

natural awakenings

efficient, but it would be great to be able to incorporate everything that’s going on now in eco building and be a recipient of all the latest benefits—why not?” So, the Begleys are moving. After years of documenting how to retrofit an older house to maximize use of solar energy for electricity, heating, cooling and hot water, family recycling and rainwater catchment, they are planning to sell their modest abode and build a modern, 3,000-square-foot home a mile away. Ed emphasizes that the move is a major concession on his part. “I made it crystal clear when Rachelle and I were dating: ‘This is the home I plan to be buried in. I will never move.’ And I said it repeatedly from 1993 until about a year and a half ago; now I’m going against that.”

Although the Begleys are trading up, they will continue to set an example by building their new home to green building standards that few homeowners have achieved. They’re going for the platinum; that is, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum standards, the highest rating possible for buildings certified by the U.S. Green Building Council (usgbc.org). This premier LEED designation requires an incredible environmental commitment in every aspect of the building process, from responsible site development, reduced water use and renewable energy utilities to the use of recycled and local materials and indoor air quality control. Of the more than 130 LEED Platinum building projects in California—the state that boasts the most such projects—only about 30 are private homes. Despite his initial protestations, Ed admits that he’s excited about the prospect. If there’s one thing he relishes, it’s a green challenge.

Life with Ed

It’s not easy to live up to Ed’s 30-yearstrong waste-nothing ethos. Although he first made a name for himself as an actor, initially as Dr. Victor Ehrlich on the 1980s TV show St. Elsewhere, followed by his recurring roles in the hit TV series Six Feet Under and Arrested Development, as well as a co-starring role in Woody Allen’s 2009 film Whatever Works, lately he’s become best known as Hollywood’s green guru. He’s the people’s go-to expert on green building and saving energy, authoring the how-to books, Living Like Ed and Ed Begley, Jr.’s Guide to Sustainable Living. Ed is often spotted around Hollywood riding his bike, his preferred mode of travel; on weekdays, he and his daughter ride together to her school, pedaling two miles each way. This down-to-earth, affable man is perhaps eco-conscious to a fault. The success of the show Living with Ed relied in great part on the watchdog antics of Ed catching his wife stuffing vegetable peelings down the garbage disposal, instead of in the compost bin, timing her long showers or opening a running dryer to discover Rachelle’s lone tank top inside.

In each case, the chastised Rachelle vowed to be more eco-conscious, with a raised eyebrow aimed at the camera. “I felt vindicated,” Rachelle says of her reality show adventures. “They [the viewers] were going to side with me.” If there’s any question that Ed’s needling occurs only when the cameras are on, his family members put those doubts to rest. Rachelle describes how her husband insists on keeping the temperature uncomfortably low on cold nights for the sake of saving energy; of turning off her curling iron while it’s warming up if she leaves the room; or switching off the TV if she’s listening to it while getting dressed down the hall. Daughter Hayden’s biggest gripe has to do with TV time. “I love to watch TV for hours on end,” she says. “My dad is very cautious about using power and we have to turn off several different things when we use the TV, like the DVR and its power switch.” But Ed insists that all these little energy-saving strategies add up. While he was willing to recently trade his obsolete 1992 TV set for an HDTV, he knows it’s a major energy hog—and not only when someone’s watching it. “The phantom power can be as high as 100 watts per hour,” he says—that’s the power the TV consumes simply by being plugged in. “But,” he notes, “ if you have put power strips everywhere in the house and you just walk around and click off a few of them, all of that phan-

tom power is turned off. Then, you can enjoy an appliance like that without using a tremendous amount of energy.” The sun may be an unlimited source of energy, but the solar power stored in their home’s batteries has limitations— and Ed is a vigilant watchdog. With rooftop solar panels providing most of the home’s power, the Begleys remain blissfully unaware when there’s a power outage in the neighborhood. “I only find out about it when I walk to the post office and see the signal flashing to show that power has been restored,” Ed comments. Ed manually switches over to the municipal power grid only when he senses that the stored power capacity in the home’s solar batteries is running low. He foresees that eventually that system will be automated, but for now, he’s happy to keep track. The solar power generated onsite is enough to operate the house and professional TV cameras; it also charges an electric car in the garage—an all-electric 2002 Toyota RAV4 that’s clocked 85,000 miles. For hot water, the family comfortably relies mostly on a simple solar thermal setup—a 4-by-10-foot panel on the roof of black anodized tubing behind a piece of glass. A pump activates when a sensor in the panel senses that it’s hotter than the temperature in the tank. Ed observes: “If you keep things simple, they work well.” Simplicity also keeps maintenance issues at bay. The upkeep required for his solar electric system is minor; he’s committed only to adding water to the batteries every nine months and occasionally getting up to the roof to clean the panels with a brush and a little water.

Embracing the Great Outdoors

One of Ed’s first acts when he purchased his current house in 1988 was to rip up the existing lawn and replace it with native California plants and a fruit and vegetable garden. Unless raising cows or running a golf course, he can’t imagine why anyone would need high-maintenance, water-wasting grass outside their home. But, as with many of Ed’s improvements, energy saving

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April 2011

tends to trump aesthetics. That’s where Rachelle comes in. “A few years after Rachelle had moved in here, she was telling a friend to meet her at the house,” Ed recalls, “and she said ‘It’s the one on the corner that looks like the Addams Family yard.’ I thought: ‘Oooh, maybe that garden isn’t quite as nice-looking as it used to be.’ It was very drought-tolerant, but it didn’t look good.” With Rachelle’s help, a new landscaper joined the effort of turning the formerly bleak-looking yard into an attractive mix of native plants that includes fragrant rosemary and purpleflowering sage along with broccoli, artichoke, corn and lettuce. Plans for the new family home will allow Ed an expanded capability to harvest rainwater through a large catchment system with an underground tank, so that he can irrigate the gardens without drawing from the municipal water supply— which he characterizes as having, “… our straw dipped into someone else’s drink”—namely, Northern California’s water. “If you’re going to take water from someone else,” Ed advises, “the least you can do is to use it responsibly and not waste it on non-native species.”

Meeting in the Middle

Bringing Rachelle’s aesthetic influence to bear has entailed replacing outdated 36

Fairfield County Edition

living room curtains with attractive and energy-efficient wooden shutters, and finding ways to recycle without having large bins in plain sight. She’s orchestrating the design and layout of the new house—allowing for both entertaining space and larger closets—while Ed focuses on its renewable energy systems—including more unshaded rooftop panels and orienting the building to make the most of natural light. “If we don’t go LEED Platinum, then who will?” Rachelle queries. “That alone is not easy; still, I want to make it look like other houses in the neighborhood. I don’t want a Jetsons’ house; super modern has never been my style. I‘d like to show people that you can have it all, and I’m praying that it’s true.” The Begleys got off to a good start in March by tearing down an existing home on the property they recently purchased—96 percent of which, from cabinets to pipes, will be recycled or reused through Habitat for Humanity. By March 2012, the new house should be finished. They want their LEED Platinum home to serve as a model for people who are building new residences, to show what is possible in achieving real energy efficiency and waste reduction without sacrificing style or comfort. Ed’s aim is to ensure the place produces more energy than it uses.

natural awakenings

As before, the whole process will be documented. “I hope that I’ve shown what you can do with a retrofit,” Ed says. “Now I want to show people what you can do from the ground up in 2011 and beyond.” The family’s ongoing focus on green living has made a major impact on Hayden, who accepts environmental consciousness as the norm. “I learned everything from my dad, from composting to solar panels,” Hayden says. “I always teach my friends to turn off the lights more often, take shorter showers, stuff like that.” Her green awareness gives this tween maturity beyond her years. As Rachelle says, “She thinks about things outside of herself. She’s always been conscientious. She’s also really concerned about the planet and very compassionate.” Hayden is proof that a family’s day-to-day environmental commitments can leave a lasting impact that reaches far beyond the immediate family. Brita Belli is the editor of E-The Environmental Magazine and the author of The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Renewable Energy for Your Home. Her next book, due out this fall, explores the relationship of environmental toxins and autism.

Step Two: The Middle Road n Install a programmable thermostat. n Get a Cool-N-Save attachment for household air conditioners—a valve and mister system that activates when the A/C is on to drop temperatures around each unit by as much as 30 degrees (not recommended for mineralized well water). n Add insulation to drafty walls, ceilings, basements and even foundations. n Install new double- or triple-paned windows. n Add blinds or other window treat ments to help retain heat in winter and block it in the summer. n Purchase a new, energy-efficient dishwasher, refrigerator and other appliances.

STEPPING UP HOME ENERGY SAVINGS

n Replace the lawn with drought tolerant grasses or native plants and vegetable/fruit/herb gardens or even an artificial lawn made of recycled rubber and plastic. Step Three: Major Commitments

by Brita Belli

reen guru Ed Begley, Jr. likes to break down saving energy and reducing waste at home into doable steps that help us get the most out of our homes, so that we not only learn to live efficiently, but learn to love doing so. The how-to advice in his books comes packed with personal anecdotes and insights; it’s like a friend explaining the basics, as opposed to a know-it-all. Almost any energy-saving journey, Begley notes, begins with a green home audit. The one he had conducted for his home cost $1,000 because it was very thorough; basic audits cost $100 to $175 per hour. But, he’s convinced it was well worth it, because the auditor found many places where Begley could make simple minor adjustments to potentially save hundreds of dollars a year. What’s more, he advises, “A good

green home audit will help you prioritize bigger changes, so you spend your money wisely.” Here’s how to move up the energysaving ladder, one step at a time. Step One: The Low-Hanging Fruit n Switch from incandescent light bulbs to compact fluorescent models. n Turn off lights and fans when leaving a room. n Change air filters. n Take shorter showers.

n Purchase and install a solar hot water system or tankless water heater; at minimum, install a timer to avoid wasteful heating of water 24/7 (a thermal blanket can help, too). n When updating a standard HVAC system, consider the value of switching to a heat pump model. n If building a new residence or looking to upgrade an outdated heating/cooling system (particularly for larger homes), opt for a geother mal heat pump, which uses 25 to 50 percent less energy than a traditional heating and cooling system.

n Turn off the faucet while shaving and brushing teeth.

n Evaluate the home’s solar potential and install solar photovoltaic panels on the roof.

n Plug in power strips and use them to fully turn off electronics when not in use.

n Consider a home’s wind energy potential and install a home wind turbine.

n Recycle everything possible and compost all organic matter, from vegetable cuttings to coffee grounds.

Primary Source: Ed Begley, Jr.’s Guide to Sustainable Living

eNaturalAwakenings.com

April 2011

communityspotlight

Sustainable Land Care Insight & Advice from

Chris Baliko of Growing Solutions, LLC

rowing Solutions, LLC is a full service landscape company serving Fairfield County. The company provides design/build, maintenance, large tree care, and masonry services. It specializes in organic land care which includes sustainable landscape design/build, lawn care, and tick control services.

What motivated you to focus on organic, rather than conventional chemical-based services? Growing Solutions has been in business since 2002 and we have been accredited through the Northeast Organic Farming Association (NOFA) since 2006. We were motivated to focus on organics because we were concerned with how synthetic products degrade the environment and how they affect our health, the health of our employees, our clients and their families.

A Spiritual Boutique

Native American Art – Jewelry – Angels – Semiprecious Stones – Books – Goddesses

Enjoy Friday Evenings from 7:00-8:30 pm at

Touch of Sedona’s Monthly Gatherings First Fridays: Drumming Circle Second Fridays: Chanting/Kirtan Third Fridays: Course in Miracles Fourth Fridays: Varies—call for details No need to RSVP—just come by! $ 10 suggested donation

OPEN 7 DAYS 11:00am - 5:30pm 452 Main Street Ridgefield, CT

203-438-7146

TouchOfSedonaRidgefield.com

Fairfield County Edition

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What is the most common reason that your customers are switching to organic lawn care? The most common reason customers are converting to organics is that they are concerned with the health of their families and pets. Many clients are on well water and realize that the chemicals applied to their lawns can end up in the water they drink, cook with, and bathe in. An organic program may not be for everyone. Customers have to accept that their landscapes will have imperfections and that a lawn maintained organically could contain 5 to 10% weeds.

When beginning the transition from chemical-based lawn care to organic, what should the customer expect? When converting from a synthetic program to an organic program customers must realize that this is a long term investment. The transition time is usually three to five years depending on the condition of the soil. The focus is not just on applying organic fertilizers and weed controls, but also on building a healthy soil and soil food web. Comprehensive soil tests should be done every two or three years to determine what may be needed in amending the soil. Cultural practices such as topdressing with compost, aeration, overseeding,

and compost tea applications are also important parts of an organic program.

What is Growing Solutions’ approach to sustainable landscaping? First we build a healthy soil in which the plants can thrive. Next, we must consider the optimal conditions for each plant and make sure that we place the right plant in the right place with regard to soil pH, texture, moisture, and sun exposure. We prefer to use plants that are native to the Northeast - once established they require less maintenance and fewer inputs such as fertilizer and water.

From your point of view, what sustainable trends do you see happening within Fairfield County? The biggest trend we have seen over the last two years is the creation of vegetable gardens and edible landscapes. We continually have requests to install raised beds for gardens and to install fruit trees, raspberry, blackberry, and blueberry bushes. Another big trend is composting. It is free and is easy to get started. The average American throws away about five pounds of garbage each day, much of which can be composted. By composting we can reduce the materials that end up in our waste stream thereby lessening the affect on the earth, and making our own free compost for our lawns and gardens.

Tick-control is a big concern for Connecticut residents. What organic options do you recommend?

Whole Foods Market is bringing you natural & organic foods at premium quality, not premium prices. Westport 399 Post Road West, CT 203.227.6858 Greenwich 90 E. Putnam Avenue, CT 203.661.0631 Darien 150 Ledge Road, CT 203.662.0577

 

     

  

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 

     

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There are many organic products available to control ticks. The two we prefer to use are composed of wintergreen and peppermint oils, and the other is the oil extracted from the chrysanthemum plant. In addition to our applications we advise our clients to install and maintain a three to four foot perimeter of wood chips around their yards and remove leaf litter which discourages ticks. We also recommend that they maintain their stone walls, use deer resistant plantings, and install deer fencing. Growing Solutions serves the Fairfield County region and can be reached at 866.476.9765. Visit GrowSo.com for more information. See Back Cover ad.

Yan Ting, Doctor of Acupuncture 

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April 2011

greenspotlights Arbonne Discover the Arbonne Difference: A Pure Approach to looking & feeling great with Premium Skin Care Products. Arbonne premium skin care products are formulated in Switzerland at the Arbonne Institute of Research and Development (AIRD) and made in the U.S.A. Our proprietary skin care products are: • Botanically based • pH correct • Hypoallergenic • Dermatologist tested • Never tested on animals • Formulated without animal products or by-products • Formulated without mineral oil • Formulated without dyes or chemical fragrances Scientifically Advanced Weightloss & Nutrition products Based on similar principals of our skincare, Arbonne expanded into total body care with Arbonne Essentials. Developed for every stage of life, these nutrition, weight loss, fitness, life enhancement products are convenient, safe & backed by the latest scientific research & formulated:

• Using the finest botanical ingredients • Using standardized botanicals & herbs Also, all of Arbonne’s dietary supplements are formulated: • Without colors, starch, added caffeine, preservatives or salt • To provide maximum absorption with highly bio-available ingredients

Heidi Sojka, Independent Consultant 203.231.4004 cell 203.380.9181 office HeidiSojka.MyArbonne.com See ad pg 43

Camilla Landscape Design, LLC A new company, born of the merger of Camilla Worden Garden Design of Danbury, CT, and GP Masonry and Landscape of Mt. Kisco, NY. The company, headquartered in Brookfield, CT, operates out of its new enclosed facility in Brewster, NY. This convenient location, right off of Exit 8 on I-684, allows the company to provide excellent service to its customers in nearby Fairfield and Westchester counties.   “Both John and I have always favored working with indigenous materials - John with stone and I with native plants - so this seemed like a “natural”, says co-owner, Camilla Worden. “Creating beautiful outdoor spaces that fit well into the site and taking care of them in non-toxic ways is what we’re all about.” Camilla Landscape Design will continue to offer ecologi40

Fairfield County Edition

cally-friendly landscape planning and building and provide environmentallyfriendly maintenance services for lawns and landscapes to keep them looking their best. Services Offered: • organic lawncare • tick control • natural landscaping & stonework • transplanting and maintenance services • plant health care

Camilla Landscape Design CamillaLandscapeDesign.com 203.790.9809 or 914.666.6500 See ad pg 9

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Country Green We’re a family owned local business, and our employees care about our customers and their properties. We ask whether or not you have children or pets, and we keep this in mind while visiting your home. We’re environmentally conscious, and we always choose the products safest for you, your family, your pets, and the Earth. Everyone wants a thick green lawn, but not everyone likes the idea of applying pesticides. That’s why Country Green offers you a choice of three programs: 1) Completely Natural Organic program – 100% organic, no chemicals. 2) Proven program – using only balanced products safe for children and pets. 3) Transitional program – if you are currently using chemicals on your property, this program gradually eliminates chemical use without adverse affects to the appearance of your property. In addition to lawncare, we also offer these services: • Tick control - We offer a safe program to keep your property – and children and pets – free of ticks. • Mosquito treatment - Country Green is one of the few Connecticut companies certified by the Department of Environmental Protection to treat for mosquitoes. • Deer repellent - We offer a non– poisonous all–natural clear repellent. • Tree care - Country Green can prune and care for your trees, and protect your hemlocks and shrubs from both insects and disease.

Country Green, Inc. CountryGreenOrganic.com 203.268.2922 or 203.353.9576 See ad pg 24

Green Maid, Inc. Green Maid, Inc., provides easy online home shopping for natural, organic and eco-friendly home and personal care products. We are a small and honest company that cares about personal health and the environment. Our focus is on creating 100% natural, useful and affordable products for everyday life. At Green Maid Inc., we are passionate about creating beautiful quality products that are good for your body and good for the earth. We take pride in using the finest plant-derived ingredients and essential oils, known for their therapeutic and medicinal properties. Most of our products are handmade in small batches to guarantee the highest quality and used within our own household. We never test any of our products on animals and guarantee no harsh chemicals or fumes; just simple ingredients from Mother Earth. We believe that’s the way it should be, pure, simple and 100% natural. We hope you enjoy our products and take an active part in changes for the future of our children’s health and our planet. Visit us today at: GreenMaidOrganics.com We also provide ‘GREEN’ Residential Cleaning Services! Call for a FREE home consultation.

Green Maid, Inc. GreenMaidOrganics.com 203.558.2662 Chantal & Halvor Gaasrud Founders/Owners See ad pg 11

Growing Solutions, LLC Growing Solutions, LLC is a full service landscape company serving Fairfield County. We provide design/build, maintenance, large tree care, and masonry services. Our specialty is organic land care which includes sustainable landscape design/build, lawn care, and tick control services. We were established in 2002 in Ridgefield. As we grew we quickly realized there are better ways to maintain landscapes than with the use of chemicals and synthetic products. In 2006, we became Accredited Organic Land Care Professionals through the Northeast Organic Farming Association (NOFA). Our goals are to design, build, and maintain landscapes using sustainable landscape practices. We focus on building a healthy soil structure and food web. Soil testing and amending the soil with compost are a large part

of our business. With the results of your soil test, we can customize a lawn care program to fit your specific needs. When you have a healthy and balanced soil you increase the chances of having healthy turf and plants. Using organic methods will allow your turf and plants to be less stressed, become established quicker, require less water and fertilizer, and less susceptible to insect and disease infestations, thereby reducing expense to maintain your landscape.

Growing Solutions, LLC Serving Fairfield County 866.476.9765 GrowSo.com See Back Cover ad

Tony Antolics Independent Shaklee Distributor Tony Antolics BSN, BA, RN is an independent Shaklee distributor. Shaklee started making green cleaning products over 50 years ago…long before the current rage and popular demand. We did it because it was the right thing to do. We believe that the small act of scouring the sink can be part of the giant act of changing the world. Get Clean™ offers you nontoxic and natural cleaning choices that are SAFE, POWERFUL, GREEN and SMART. Go to your cupboard right now. Pick a cleaner, any cleaner. Does it contain sodium hydroxide, phenol, ammonia or formaldehyde? These–and more–may be toxic. Toxic as in dangerous, as in hurtful, as in not very clean at all. Home is no place for stuff like that. So start by getting rid of those troublemakers. Responsibly, of course. Then call in Get Clean™. Get Clean™ products use biodegradable cleaning agents, which means they break down easily instead of

hanging out in the ground for hundreds of years. They also have no phosphates, borates, nitrates, or other stuff the planet doesn’t appreciate. And by making them superconcentrated, we leave you to add water so we can subtract waste. This has tons of implications. Literally. Less weight to ship. Less product to use. Less packaging to throw away. So you can get that clean feeling about your house, knowing you’re keeping the planet clean, too.

GREEN CLEANING PRODUCTS Tony Antolics BSN, BA, RN Independent Shaklee Distributor TheNutritionNurse.com See ad pg 27

eNaturalAwakenings.com

April 2011

The best thing about our products is what we leave out!

“Health Starts Here” at Whole Foods Market

No Ammonia No Parabens No Scalp Staining No Scalp Discomfort Just beautiful colors which last longer

WITHOUT using harsh chemicals!

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15 Square Acre Dr. Stamford

203.461.9543

Mon & Wed 9-7p, Thu 9-2p, Sat 9-5p

All is connected... no one thing can change by itself. ~Paul Hawken

Fairfield County Edition

by Jennifer L. Nelson he sheer number of choices in a supermarket can be overwhelming, and consumers are often hard-pressed to resist quick and easy convenience foods and frozen meals. Add to the mix the fact that many Americans are unclear about exactly what they should be eating — and how much — for proper nutrition, and you really have a recipe for trouble. That’s why Whole Foods Market rolled out its Health Starts Here program. With eight locations scattered throughout Connecticut, the natural and organic chain has always been committed to high quality standards

natural awakenings

and sustainable agriculture. But now the company has taken on its biggest mission yet: helping customers achieve lifelong health. “Whole Foods started 30 years ago when people did a lot of cooking, and we want to help our customers go back to basics,” explains Mark Wilkins, Health Starts Here associate coordinator for Whole Foods Market-Northeast Region. With the help of healthy eating specialists, Whole Foods is offering customers nutritional guidance and lifestyle support in the form of seasonal cooking classes; educational lectures; product recommendations and personal

shopper services; store tours; customized eating plans; and tastings of Health Starts Here recipes. Its calendar of events also includes book club gatherings and supper clubs, and customers always have access to hundreds of on-line recipes and other educational resources. “Instead of sitting down to a cooked meal at home, many Americans grab a meal on the go…and [that’s why] this is the first generation that may not outlive their parents,” says Ronna Corlin, healthy eating specialist for Whole Foods Market in Darien, who notes that obesity rates are four times higher than they were 40 years ago. “A program like Health Starts Here offers a prescription for optimal nutrition that can turn around addictive patterns and poor eating — and, because this is a free resource, customers also discover that there’s no charge for taking control of their health!” Countless studies prove that a diet rich in vegetables, beans, fruits, whole grains, nuts and seeds promotes good health and reduces the risk of chronic disease. However, according to the US Department of Health and Human Services’ Healthy People 2010 data, around 38 percent of Americans eat enough fruit, and just six percent of men and four percent of women consume an adequate amount of vegetables. Health Starts Here makes the research digestible with a program revolving around just four key pillars of healthy eating: choosing whole, natural, and organic foods; maintaining a plant-based diet including legumes, nuts, and seeds; consuming healthy fats from plant sources like nuts and avocados; and opting for nutrient-dense foods that are low in calories but high in micronutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. “Customers learn that we have the ability to make healthier choices minute to minute, meal to meal, and season to season,” Corlin says. “This healthy eating initiative empowers them to move the needle on their day and, in many cases, to reverse and prevent disease by making smarter decisions about what to buy, how to cook it, and how to define healthy eating.” To help consumers get even more bang for their nutrition buck, the company partnered with Eat Right America to label many foods sold in the market according to an Aggregate Nutrient Density Index (ANDI) score, which indicates the food’s nutrient density on a scale of 1 to 1000; dark leafy greens like kale earn the highest score, while soda scores a one. “We’re all about demystifying the journey back to healthy eating,” says Debera Prosek, healthy eating specialist at Whole Foods Market in Westport. “Health Starts Here is vital to today’s consumer because there’s a clear link between food and health — and we’re here to assist shoppers in making every bite count.” Visit Whole Foods Market at 399 Post Road West in Westport, 150 Ledge Road in Darien, and 90 E. Putnam Avenue in Greenwich. WholeFoods.com. See ad pg 39. Jennifer L. Nelson is a freelance writer specializing in health, parenting, and lifestyle. Visit her on-line at JenniferLNelson.com.

MISO-GINGER WILD RICE with Carrots and Cabbage (serves 4)

Barley miso is a darker variety that gives a rich flavor to this wild rice mixture. 1 1/4 cups uncooked wild rice 4 tablespoons rice vinegar 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped 3 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds 1 tablespoon finely chopped ginger 1 tablespoon barley miso 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper 1 cup shredded red cabbage 1 medium carrot, shredded (about 1/3 cup) 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions, 1 tablespoon reserved for garnish • Bring 3 cups water to a boil in a medium pot. Add rice and return to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, until liquid is absorbed and rice is cooked through, about 50 minutes. • Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk together vinegar, garlic, sesame seeds, ginger, miso and crushed red pepper until blended. When rice is cooked, drain and add to bowl with vinegar mixture. Stir in cabbage, carrot and green onion until combined and garnish with remaining green onion.

Personal Computer Training & Troubleshooting

The Computer Fairy: • teaches you to send emails & use the internet • speeds up your computer & backs up your precious files • fixes your wireless connections & more

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Aliza Wolfe (203) 554-5975 eNaturalAwakenings.com

April 2011

Two Coyotes Wilderness School

Living Earth Summer Camps

healthbriefs

Pomegranate Juice May Inhibit the Spread of Cancer

Day-camp dates Wilderness I June 27-July 1, August 1-5 Nature and the Arts July 11-15, August 15-19 Wildwood Rangers August 29-September 2nd Teen Wilderness Adventure July 18-22 Bow Making Camp

August 22-26

he exotic red fruit known as pomegranate is making headlines again. Researchers at the University of California, Riverside, have identified components in pomegranate juice that inhibit the movement of cancer cells and the metastasis of prostate cancer to the bone. The researchers attribute this effect to four key ingredients in the pomegranate: phenylpropanoids, hydrobenzoic acids, flavones and conjugated [types of polyunsaturated] fatty acids. “Having identified them, we can now modify cancer-inhibiting components in pomegranate juice to improve their functions and make them more effective in preventing prostate cancer metastasis, leading to more effective drug therapies,” says Manuela Martins-Green, a professor of cell biology at the university. She adds: “Because the genes and proteins involved in the movement of prostate cancer cells are essentially the same as those involved in the movement of other types of cancer cells, the same modified components of the juice could have a much broader impact in cancer treatment.”

Traveling? Pack Probiotics

Camps are held at Sticks and Stones Farm in Newtown, CT for children ages 5-16. Small class sizes and experienced adult staff ensure a rich experience.

www.TwoCoyotes.org

illions of people contract diarrheal diseases every year, and with the summer travel season just around the corner, it’s good to know that probiotics given as therapies for diarrhea can bring fast relief. After reviewing the findings of 63 trials involving a total of 8,014 patients, researchers with the School of Medicine at Swansea University, UK, concluded that taking such probiotics, or “good bacteria,” decisively helps. Results showed that using the probiotics reduced the duration of the illness and lessened the frequency of episodes continuing for more than four days.

for more info and to register

Earth Day 1970 was irrefutable evidence that the American people understood the environmental threat and wanted action to resolve it. ~Barry Commoner

Fairfield County Edition

Air Quality Contributes to Diabetes We have yet another reason to demand cleaner air: A national, large-scale, population-based epidemiologic study conducted by researchers at Children’s Hospital Boston, published in Diabetes Care, is among the first to link adult diabetes and air pollution, after adjustment for other risk factors such as obesity and ethnicity. The relationship was observed even at exposure levels below those currently deemed safe by the Environmental Protection Agency.

natural awakenings

Toxic Food Wrappers

hen we buy a packaged prepared meal, we might, be ingesting harmful chemicals leached from the wrapper into our food. University of Toronto scientists have found that chemicals used to coat paper and cardboard food packaging to repel oil, grease and water are capable of migrating into food and contributing to chemical contamination in people’s blood. The researchers focused on perfluorinated carboxylic acids (PFCA), the breakdown products of chemicals used to achieve the nonstick and water- and stain-repellent properties of items that range from food packaging and kitchen pans to clothing. “We suspect that a major source of human PFCA exposure may be the consumption and metabolism of polyfluoroalkyl phosphate esters, or PAPs,” explains Jessica D’eon, a graduate student in the university’s chemistry department. “PAPs are applied as grease-proofing agents to paper food contact packaging such as fast food wrappers and microwave popcorn bags.” PAPs are a source of potential personal chemical contamination that we can easily limit or avoid altogether.

B12 –The Brain Vitamin

new study from the Karolinska Institutet, in Stockholm, Sweden, shows that vitamin B12 may protect against Alzheimer’s disease, adding more evidence to the scientific debate about whether the vitamin is effective in reducing the risk of memory loss. Having too much homocysteine in the blood, the scientists report, has been linked to negative effects on the brain, such as stroke. Now they suggest that higher levels of vitamin B12 can lower homocysteine levels. Source: American Academy of Neurology

GET YOUR HEALTH BACK IN BALANCE...

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Free Download Dr. Doyle’s Health Tips at GoToDrDoyle.com

MICHAEL E. DOYLE, MD restoring health by restoring healthy metabolism

Are you tired of being tired, unable to sleep, distressed by your dry skin or hair loss — unable to lose weight, irritable, depressed or anxious, experiencing muscle pain? You may have an undetected nutritional or hormonal imbalance.

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203-324-4747 – GoToDrDoyle.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

April 2011

What Hair Reveals About the Heart

Second-Hand Lead Alert

esearchers at the University of Western Ontario are the first to use a biological marker in human hair to provide direct evidence that chronic stress plays an important role in causing heart attacks. In the past, chronic stressors such as job, marital and financial problems, have all been linked to an increased risk for developing cardiovascular disease and heart attack, but until now there hasn’t been a biological marker to measure the major risk factors. “Intuitively, we know stress is not good for you, but it’s not easy to measure,” explains Dr. Gideon Koren, who holds the Ivey Chair in Molecular Toxicology at Western’s Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry. “We know that on average, hair grows one centimeter a month, so if we take a hair sample six centimeters long, we can determine stress levels for six months by measuring the cortisol level in the hair.” Cortisol is widely considered to be the main stress hormone, because stress activates its secretion. Traditionally, it’s been measured in blood serum, urine and saliva, but that only monitors stress at the time of measurement, not over longer periods of time. In the study, hair samples three centimeters long, corresponding to about three months of hair growth, were collected from hospitalized patients who had suffered a heart attack, and then compared with hair samples from other patients. The heart attack patients were found to have significantly higher levels of cortisol in their hair, compared to the control group. This finding provides a new, noninvasive way of testing a patient’s risk.

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

he sale of used items in the United States is not regulated by any federal agency and consumers should be aware that they might be bringing lead poisoning hazards of past generations back into their homes. When Oregon State University researchers purchased a collection of used items from junk shops and secondhand and antique stores in several states around the country, they found that many of the items contained lead. Representative pieces included salvaged construction elements, antique toys, common drinking glasses and other dishware, jewelry and collectibles.

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blends and recycled polyester active wear for men and women that can be form-flattering, comfortable and enduring; trend watchers have even spotted a biodegradable athletic running shoe. Try shopping upscale thrift shops. The best days to find great clothes are Mondays and Tuesdays, after folks have dropped off their clothing over the weekend. Thrift shops are a hit-andmiss proposition—you may need to visit them more than once.

ECO-WORKOUT Easy Green Tweaks Save Money by Linda LaRue

e all agree that we need to do a better job of conserving our planet’s limited resources, so why not try these simple suggestions to green your workout routine? These eco-friendly tweaks to what you already may do take little effort and save both time and cash. Curb consumerism. Buy less brandname active wear, expensive running shoes and faddish workout gizmos, which are not quick fixes for proper exercise and diet. Recycle water/sports bottles. Buy a reusable water bottle, which is far better for the Earth than any plastic, single-use beverage container (even if you recycle it). Outrageously overpriced sports drinks are unnecessary because you can obtain all the vitamins and minerals you need by eating a sensible diet and taking a daily multivitamin. Use biodegradable body products. Buy biodegradable body wash, shampoo, lotion and laundry detergent in large sizes to save money and decrease material use. Then, use them to fill smaller, travel-size, reusable bottles.

Patronize a workout center that’s within walking distance. You’ll not only boost your workouts, you’ll be supporting the local economy while reducing car emissions and potential parking fees. If the weather is fine, walk outside—it’s free. Did you know that of all motorized fitness equipment, treadmills use the most energy? Use towels made from organic cotton, bamboo or reclaimed fabric. Discount retailers often sell eco-friendly towels made from such natural materials. Bamboo towels are particularly soft, luxuriant and absorbent. Watch for store coupons. Buy recycled and/or natural fitness products. Fitness product manufacturers are beginning to make and promote items using recycled materials. Choose eco-friendly organic and/ or recycled active wear. Today, there seems to be an overabundance of green materials being made into clothing. Time will tell what materials consumers like best, due to price, performance, look and feel. Options include organic cotton and soy fiber blends, seaweed

Buy used workout DVDs. Great quality, popular, used, home workout DVDs are available online and at some thrift facilities and used book stores, often for half-price or less. Core performance guru Linda LaRue is a registered nurse, athletic trainer and creator of Crunchless Abs, and the ecofriendly Core Transformer low-impact, 360° resistance workout. Visit  LindaLaRue.com.

Do You Experience

Chronic Pain?

Heal the Source... Not Just the Symptoms Thomas G. Lemens has over 30 years of experience as a Certified Teacher of the Alexander Technique, specializing in • Chronic pain • Lower back syndrome • Repetitive stress injuries • Post-surgical recovery • Equestrians & other athletes Discover this highly effective approach, which can help alleviate discomfort, restore balance, and dramatically improve coordination and vitality. Offices in North Salem and Manhattan. Call 914-485-1288 now to arrange an initial consultation.

THE CENTER FOR APPLIED POSTURE 2 Keeler Lane North Salem, NY 10560 Phone: 914-485-1288 thomas@bestweb.net CenterForAppliedPosture.com

eNaturalAwakenings.com

April 2011

Natural Treatments For ADD/ ADHD by Michael E. Doyle, MD

s your son unable to pay attention to details or easily distracted? Does he fidget and squirm, or seem hyperactive? Does your daughter have difficulty following through with instructions in school or at home? Perhaps she seems not to listen even when spoken to? Do you know an adult with these symptoms? These problems can occur in any healthy person, but they can also be symptoms of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). If these problems become troubling enough, a doctor or teacher may recommend that your child (self, or spouse…) get medically evaluated and treated. Once the diagnosis of ADHD (previously known

only as ADD, or Attention Deficit Disorder) is made, stimulant medications are usually prescribed to help the patient focus. While stimulant medications can aid in controlling symptoms, they have many potential side effects. According to WebMD.com, one of the most common stimulant medications for ADHD has the following potential side effects: loss of appetite, weight loss, dry mouth, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, diarrhea, fever, agitation, mood swings, depression, abnormal thoughts, outbursts of words/sounds, chest pain, fainting, irregular heartbeat, seizures, extreme tiredness, blurred vision,

Unity Center

slurred speech, confusion, and allergic reactions leading to rash, itching, swelling, and trouble breathing. Pretty scary. There are also “non-stimulating” drugs for ADHD, but they don’t appear to be much safer. WebMD.com’s list of side effects includes: vomiting, constipation, fatigue, dizziness, insomnia, mood changes, weight loss, fast or irregular heartbeat, fainting, heart attack, stroke and more. Fortunately, most children do not suffer severe side effects from ADHD medications. Some even do fairly well and are able to function better at home and school. But are these medicines the best way to treat ADHD? No one is certain, but sincerely I doubt it. I believe that the best way to address most medical conditions is to look for and treat the underlying causes of the problem. In the case of ADHD, I am certain that this condition is not caused by a deficiency of prescription drugs – stimulant or otherwise. According to MayoClinic. com, ADHD may be caused by several factors including: altered brain function; genetics; past exposure to environmental toxins, tobacco or drugs; or, food additives. Unfortunately, except for food additives, most of these potential causes are not reversible and these theories have not lead to new treatment breakthroughs. At the same time, we are ignoring two common and treatable medical conditions that may be significant con-

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Our mission is to continually discover, demonstrate, and educate that our source of Good is God within. - Weekly Events

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tributors to ADHD: low iron and hypothyroidism (low thyroid). In fact, several recent studies have shown a strong correlation between low iron levels and ADHD. For example, researchers in India studying children with newly diagnosed ADHD concluded, “Serum ferritin (a measure of iron levels) was found to be significantly lower in children with ADHD.” Another study published in the Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine concluded, “…low iron stores contribute to ADHD and that ADHD children may benefit from iron supplementation…” Other studies have had similar findings, verifying a strong tendency for children with ADHD to have diminished iron levels. It appears very likely that low iron contributes to at least some cases of ADHD. Although evidence connecting ADHD to hypothyroidism is not as strong as that linking ADHD to low iron, it is still compelling. At first glance this connection may seem unlikely since low thyroid is well known to cause sluggishness and low energy. However, some of history’s top thyroid experts were able to see through this paradox and recognize that hypothyroidism can also cause hyperactivity. Back in 1915, the “father of endocrinology,” Eugene Hertoghe, MD, stated that in certain hypothyroid children, “there is an extreme turbulence, with (a tendency) to throw down and break everything” (The Practitioner Jan. 1915). Hertoghe’s “turbulence” certainly sounds like today’s hyperactivity. Dr. Borda Barnes, who had a Ph.D. in thyroid physiology as well as an MD, was even more explicit in describing what he called “paradoxical” effects of mild thyroid deficiencies on children. In his book, “Hypothyroidism: the Unsuspected Illness,” Barnes described two boys who were “hyperactive and restless” until their thyroid deficiencies were treated. Recent science has begun to corroborate the insights of these thyroid pioneers. In 2007, a study in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology reported that low thyroid levels in blood tests were associated with ADHD symptoms. Even more recently, research published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found a connection between ADHD-related conditions and mild hypothyroidism. Based on medical history and emerging science, I believe that before giving potentially toxic medications to patients who show signs of ADHD, doctors should carefully screen them for iron deficiency and hypothyroidism. These conditions are common, important, and highly treatable and they may play a major role in ADHD. It is usually safer and more effective to treat the underlying causes of health problems instead of just treating the symptoms, so please make sure that your child or loved one with ADHD is carefully checked for low iron and hypothyroidism — and treated when necessary.

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Michael E. Doyle, MD is a Board Certified Family Physician whose practice combines conventional and alternative medicine, including nutrition and natural hormones. Dr. Doyle has a practice in Stamford and can be reached at 203.324.4747 or through his website at GoToDrDoyle.com. See ad pg 45. References used in this article: Archives of Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine 2004 Dec; 158(12):1113-5; Indian Pediatrics 2010 Nov 7;47(11):955-8. Epub 2010 Mar 15; Journal of Clinical Endicronology (Oxf) 2007. June:66(6):890-8; Journal of Affective Disorders 2010 Feb; 121(1-2):184-8; Epub 2009 Jun 28

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April 2011

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Self-Sufficient Systems

Place-Based Living

THE POWER OF PERMACULTURE Care for People, Sustain the Planet, Share the Surplus by John D. Ivanko

Permaculture is often considered a societal revolution disguised as gardening. It shows up in urban hamlets, suburban neighborhoods and rural farmyards. Be they large or small, the diverse flora and fauna in these Gardens of Eden gush with life.

he ethics of permaculture are simple: Everything revolves around caring for people and the planet, while sharing the surplus. A term coined by Bill Mollison and David Holmgren in the 1970s, permaculture melds the needs of human habitation and horticulture, creating viable integrated designs based on natural ecological systems, in which what’s produced by one element of the system becomes the input for another. “It’s about design and relationships,” explains Bill Wilson, co-founder of Midwest Permaculture, with his wife Becky. “Permaculture is larger than gardening. It’s a creative and artful way of living where people and nature are both 50

Fairfield County Edition

Permaculture is widely adaptable to suit local climates, soils and geographies, and can scale to any size location that can sustain life. Because nature fosters no waste, permaculture-inspired gardens recycle or reuse all nutrients and energy sources; this approach regenerates natural systems, while boosting the

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Courtesy of John D. Ivanko

preserved and enhanced by thoughtful planning and the careful use of resources. Practices mimic patterns found in nature. Principles reflect a respectful approach to life. Embraced, these attributes create an environment of diversity, stability and resilience, where all may thrive for untold generations.”

self-sufficiency of human settlements and reducing the need for industrial production systems that rely on polluting energy sources. Plants are selected and planted according to the way they help one another. Animals also play key roles in garden sustainability. Free-range chickens, for example, can help fertilize and work up the soil and control insect pests, while providing nutrient-packed eggs; humans, meanwhile, provide shelter, security, a water source and supplemental food. Surplus produced in these gardens is freely shared. “Many permaculturists are concerned about their relationships with others—all others—and the planet,” continues Wilson. “We believe that it is possible to redesign our lives to provide an abundance of food, fiber, energy and shelter for every person on this planet, while dramatically improving overall quality of life.” He notes that only 20 percent of the permaculture process is about growing food. “Permaculture is the big picture,” agrees Heather Lanier, who has developed a plan for Hill of the Hawk Farm, in Big Sur, California. “It’s about how relationships are built and how these relationships help care for one another in the circle of life.” At her farm, the staff are transforming abandoned chicken coops into living spaces and artist studios, and planting a forest garden that will provide shade and fresh fruit, while attracting beneficial insects. Chickens and ducks meander around a series of ponds that collect water in preparation for the region’s long dry season. Just down the road, the Esalen Institute offers educational workshops, which Lanier’s staff have attended. An instructor there also helped complete the permaculture plan for Lanier’s property.

Permaculture is equally appropriate for the urban and suburban areas where most Americans now live, says Wilson. “It’s for any size property, including an apartment, and for any climate... any place.” He and other permaculture enthusiasts maintain that, “With more and

Courtesy of John D. Ivanko

Permaculture is for any size property, including an apartment, and for any climate... any place. larger settings, together we can have a great positive effect on the total environment.” When it comes to the potential for rural areas, “We can harvest a far greater amount of resources than we do now—water, sun, carbon dioxide and wind—and greatly improve productivity, while improving the overall quality of the region.” However, he quickly clarifies: “One can be very successful in small spaces, too.” John D. Ivanko is the co-author of Rural Renaissance, describing Inn Serendipity’s journey toward sustainability (InnSerendipity.com), based in part on permaculture and onsite generation of wind and solar power.

GO-TO PERMACULTURE EXPERTS General Education

Permaculture Activist, PermacultureActivist.net Urban Permaculture Guild, UrbanPermacultureGuild.org

Regional Workshops Esalen Institute, Esalen.org

Glacial Lakes Permaculture, GlacialLakesPermaculture.org Midwest Permaculture, MidwestPermaculture.com eNaturalAwakenings.com Untitled-4 1

April 2011

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bitter, and can be cooked without losing its flavor. For low-salt diets, it serves as a welcome flavoring substitute, often used in fruit salads, candies, jams and jellies, vegetable salads and dishes, stuffing and cottage cheese; it goes well with meat and poultry. Lemon verbena also makes a delicious tea. In northern winters, the semi-tropical plant must be brought indoors to keep it alive.

Essential Culinary Herbs

s any good cook knows, herbs are often the essential ingredients that coax the finest flavors out of any meal. In most cases, fresher is better, and even the smallest garden can provide a selection of pot-to-pan varieties. Here is a short list of must-haves.

taste of onion in a milder form. When cooking, add fresh or freeze-dried chives at the end to preserve the flavor. Bright, dark-green chives grow in clumps and have slender, grass-like leaves. They produce purple, lavender or pink globe-shaped flowers.

Basil, Sweet (Ocimum basilicum) Basil comes in several varieties, but sweet basil is the most common. The leaf tastes sweet and spicy, overlaid with a clove-like perfume, and is used most often with tomato dishes, pizzas, salads and vegetables, often in combination with garlic. Fresh is far superior to dried. The sweet basil plants vary in size, as well as leaf size and color. Many cooks like to grow green-leafed and red-leafed basil side-by-side.

Cilantro/Coriander (Coriandrum sativum) Cilantro is the leaf of the coriander plant. It is best used fresh, and people either love or hate its citrusy-peppery flavor. Cilantro goes well in tacos, soups, stews, chicken dishes, rice, salads and tomato dishes and sauces. Leaves or whole plants are harvested young, because they lose their flavor when the plants grow tall and bloom. Cilantro produces small, white flower clusters. Fertilized flowers eventually mature into nutty coriander seeds.

Bay (Laurus nobilis) This aromatic herb is widely used to flavor fish, stew, rice, stuffing, curry and soup. It also is a favorite among those on low-salt diets. Bay is most often used as whole, dried leaves that are removed before dishes are served. The leaves are shiny and dark green. This evergreen shrub can grow to the height of a tree in semi-tropical climates, but most northern gardeners grow bay in pots that they bring indoors in winter. Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) Chives can be used fresh, frozen and freeze-dried, but fresh chives have the best flavor. Use snipped, chopped chives anytime you want to add the 52

Fairfield County Edition

Dill (Anethum graveolens) Dill has a bright, grassy flavor with a savory bite. Young leaves offer a light version with a faint undertone of licorice, with dill seeds carrying a stronger flavor punch. Leaves taste best fresh, but seeds are fine when dried. Dill adds to soups, omelets, seafood dishes, potato salads, dips, breads and pickles. The dill plant grows light green, threadlike leaves and parasol-like clusters of small, yellow flowers. Fertilized flowers mature into dill seeds. Lemon Verbena (Aloysia triphylla) Lemon verbena’s lemony taste is not

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Marjoram (Origanum majorana) Marjoram—also known as sweet, knotted, pot or winter marjoram—is a mild, sweet-flavored herb that tastes like a lighter, sweeter version of oregano. It can be used fresh or dried, with the whole dried leaves offering much better flavor than the ground version. Fresh marjoram leaves are excellent with potato, pasta or chopped salads; they work well with pork and veal and in stuffing for poultry. Marjoram’s small, oval, slightly furry leaves are light green on top and graygreen underneath. The tiny flowers cling to green balls the size of pearls that grow on marjoram’s wandering stems. Mint (Mentha) Mints come in endless variations, and all are spreading plants that will take over a garden. Grown in pots, they make well-behaved subjects that produce an abundance of stems that can be used fresh or dried, whole or chopped. Mint makes a great accent herb in condiments and is a perfect touch brewed into winter and summer teas or chopped into fruit or grain salads. Leftover stems from purchased bunches will root readily in water. Most strains of peppermint are heavily blushed with red; spearmint is usually bright green. Oregano (Origanum vulgare) Oregano can be used fresh or dried. It has a warm aroma and robust flavor that is popular in Italian, Greek, Spanish and Mexican dishes. It is frequently added to vegetables, (especially peppers and tomatoes), soups, stews, meat pies, pasta sauces, shellfish dishes, stuffings, dumplings, herb scones and breads, as well as fish, roast beef, lamb, chicken and pork. Parsley (Petroselinum species) There are two main varieties of parsley: curly-leaf and Italian or flat-leaf. Both

are best fresh, and have a celery-like flavor. Curly parsley often looks best on the plate, although flat-leafed types typically have a deeper, more rounded flavor that stands up to cooking. Parsley is especially good in omelets and other egg dishes, mashed potatoes, soups, pasta sauces, vegetable dishes, salads and tabouli. It also enlivens sauces. Parsley grows as a circular rosette of stems and mature plants produce rounded clusters of white flowers. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) The aromatic evergreen rosemary has a pine-like, slightly lemony flavor and aroma. It blends well with other herbs and spices, especially garlic and thyme, and can be used as a seasoning for soups, stews, eggs, tomato sauces, vegetables, roasts, fish, poultry dishes and marinades. It makes a delicious tea, hot or iced. Rosemary plants grow gray-green, needle-like leaves that remain evergreen in mild winter climates. Rosemary flowers present in pale blue or pink. Sage (Salvia officinalis) Sage lends its smoky flavor to many dishes and can be used fresh or dried, with leaves that are whole, crumbled or rubbed. Sage, along with garlic and cracked pepper, makes a good seasoning rub for meats and complements seafood, sausages and beans. It also is useful for flavoring sauces, dressings, stuffings and savory breads. The sage plant grows long, narrow, oval, gray-green leaves with a pebbly texture; showy blue sage flowers grow on upright spikes.

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Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) Fragrant thyme can be used fresh or dried and has a slight lemony-mint aroma and taste. Thyme is often used in soups, chowders, stews, sauces and stuffings. It also goes well with lima beans, potatoes, squash, tomatoes, eggs and croquettes, as well as a variety of meats, poultry and fish. Thyme is a small, stiff plant with oval, grayish-green leaves; its lilac flowers grow in small clusters. Sources: The New Food Lover’s Companion; The World of Herbs and Spices; CulinaryHerbGuide.com; GardenHerbs.org eNaturalAwakenings.com

April 2011

consciouseating

Salad Lovers’

SALADS Signature Dishes from the Garden or Farmers’ Market by Judith Fertig

oing green—at least on our plates—has never been easier. Every season, it seems that more varieties of fresh greens are available at farmers’ markets and in selections of nursery plants or seeds for home gardeners. Not so long ago, Americans generally thought of salad as pale iceberg lettuce with high-fat bottled dressing or some mixture of veggies, bound together with mayonnaise. These days, we can choose from among a bounty of tender lettuces and exotic greens, topped with extra virgin olive oils and splashed with colorful creative counterpoints that add zest and yum. Salads today provide a culinary canvas for both the cook and the gardener. A signature salad generally comprises several key ingredients: cool, crisp, fresh and nutritious greens; a fresh-tasting, low-calorie dressing; and bite-sized fruits, nuts, vegetables or cheeses that add flavor, texture and interest. For the greens, tender leaf or Bibb lettuce, crisp Romaine or cabbage, sliced or finely chopped, make the besttasting salads. For the best-tasting dressings, cooks whisk ingredients together in a bowl minutes before serving. We can drizzle them over each salad, serve them in a small pitcher on the side or place the salad in a large bowl, and then toss to incorporate the dressing. Added accents have expanded to include everything from soft fruits such as strawberries and oranges; savory and salty crumbled feta or blue cheeses; or something crunchy, like toasted almonds or walnuts, in addition to ubiquitous garden-fresh vegetables, such as scallions or tomatoes. Adding a healthy hot or cold protein makes a salad even more of a main course. Altogether, in ever-evolving combinations, today’s wide-ranging healthful ingredients can work edible magic. Judith Fertig is a freelance writer in Overland Park, KS; see AlfrescoFoodAndLifestyle.blogspot.com. 54

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Nitty Gritty Dirt Farm’s Slaw

When Minnesota’s Nitty Gritty Dirt Farm employees gather for a summer lunch, this crunchy cabbage-based slaw often graces their table. Serves 6 Slaw ½ lb Napa cabbage, cored ½ lb green cabbage, cored 1 bunch red radishes (about 12 medium to large), trimmed ½ lb broccoli, florets separated from stalks ½ bunch green onions, pale and green parts, sliced ¼-inch thick ½ lb green beans, ends trimmed, sliced ¼-inch thick Dressing 1 /3 cup extra virgin olive oil 2-½ Tbsp cider vinegar or more to taste 1 Tbsp honey ¼ tsp ground ginger Kosher or sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 1. Chop cabbages, radishes and broccoli florets into very small pieces. With a knife or vegetable peeler, pare the tough outer layer of the broccoli stalks to reveal the pale core. Chop the cores the same size as the other vegetables. 2. Put all the chopped vegetables in a large bowl and add the green onions and green beans. Toss to mix. 3. For the dressing, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, honey, ginger, and salt and pepper in a bowl, according to

taste. Add the dressing to the slaw, using just enough to coat the vegetables nicely. Toss well. Let rest at room temperature for about an hour before serving, or cover and refrigerate. The slaw will remain crunchy for at least eight hours. Source: Adapted from Eating Local: The Cookbook Inspired by America’s Farmers, by Sur La Table and Janet Fletcher (AndrewsMcMeel.com).

Strawberry and Feta Salad with Honey-Yogurt Dressing

Gardening blogger Barbara Pleasant counts this as her favorite salad, one that changes with the season. In the spring, strawberries go well with feta. In the fall, pears pair with blue cheese. Serves 2 Honey-Yogurt Dressing 2 Tbsp plain yogurt 2 Tbsp mayonnaise or veggie mayo 1 tsp honey 1 tsp rice vinegar Salt and pepper to taste Salad 2 cups fresh salad greens 1 cup fresh sliced strawberries ½ cup crumbled feta cheese ¼ cup chopped, toasted almonds or walnuts 1. For the dressing, mix the yogurt, mayo, honey and rice vinegar together in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 2. Arrange the greens on two salad plates and top with strawberries and feta. Drizzle with the dressing, sprinkle with chopped nuts and serve. Award-winning garden writer Barbara Pleasant blogs about growing and eating organic food at BarbaraPleasant.com.

Simple, Super-Fast Citrus Salad

When horticulture author Barbara Pleasant’s garden is at its peak, she doesn’t like to slow down. She goes from garden to table in minutes, remarking, “I love this simple and super-fast salad.” Serves 2 Citrus Vinaigrette Dressing 2 Tbsp sesame oil 2 Tbsp orange juice Salt and pepper to taste Salad 2 cups fresh salad greens 1 cup fresh orange, peeled and chopped, or canned mandarin oranges, rinsed and drained ½ cup chopped green onions, including some of the green 1. For the vinaigrette, whisk the sesame oil and orange juice together in a bowl. Season to taste. 2. Arrange the greens on two salad plates and top with orange and scallion. Drizzle with vinaigrette and serve. Award-winning garden writer Barbara Pleasant blogs about growing and eating organic food at BarbaraPleasant.com.

Spinach and Avocado Salad

This fresh-tasting salad features a variety of colors, flavors and textures. Serves 4 1 large ripe avocado, diced 1 Tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice 4 cups baby spinach leaves ½ cup chopped green onions 1 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in halves 1 cup sliced radishes ½ cup bottled low-calorie Italian vinaigrette 1. In a small bowl, coat avocado with lime juice. Set aside. 2. In a large bowl, toss together spinach, green onions, tomatoes, radishes and vinaigrette. Divide evenly onto four plates. Top with avocado pieces. Source: Adapted from 350 Best Salads & Dressings, by George Geary © 2010 Robert Rose Inc. (RobertRose.ca). Excerpted with permission; all rights reserved.

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April 2011

Salad Lovers’

GARDEN TIPS by Barbara Pleasant

f you really love salad, you owe it to yourself to try growing your own garden-fresh ingredients. Lettuce is fast and easy to grow, with beautiful colors and textures worthy of a flower garden. Most salad staples grow best in cool weather; so don’t wait for summer to get started. Here are eight tips for a successful salad garden season. Make several small sowings. Lettuce and other salad greens grow quickly and must be picked before they get too old, so try planting about two square feet of space every three weeks, starting in early spring. Take a break during summer’s heat, and then plant more salad greens when the weather cools in late summer. In tropical areas, grow lettuce as a winter crop. Try Bibbs, butterheads and other beauties. Seed racks offer packets of tempting varieties, and all except iceberg types are easy to grow in a garden. Buttercrunch and other Bibb varieties always do well, as do butterheads and leaf lettuces. Choose a mixture of varieties or buy three packets with different leaf colors and textures. Mark boundaries with radishes or scallions. Plant fast-sprouting radish seed or green onions from the store to mark the locations of newly sown seeds. The onions will quickly grow new roots and tops; simply pull them as needed in the kitchen. Mix in some spinach. Boost the nutrient content of salads by including spinach in the salad garden. Spinach grows best in rich, fertile soil.

Add water. All leafy greens crave water, and dry conditions can cause lettuce to become bitter. Keep a watering can near the salad bed and water as often as needed to keep the soil constantly moist, but not muddy. Eat thinnings. Lettuce seedlings often appear close together, and a good gardener will pull out excess seedlings to give the plants room to grow. After thinning seedlings to two inches apart, start eating the pulled plants as baby greens. Pick in the morning. Lettuce and other leafy greens are at their best in the morning, after they have had all night to recover from the stresses of the previous day. If it’s not possible to gather greens in the morning, pop a cardboard box over the bed for the day. Protected from hot sun, a salad patch can keep its morning freshness until evening. Grow more when temperatures cool. Salad crops struggle in hot weather, but often thrive in cooler months. In the north, gardeners can use leftover seeds to start up a second delicious salad season in late summer; in the south, they can get an early start on the long winter growing season as soon as summer temperatures abate. Barbara Pleasant is the author of numerous gardening books, including Starter Vegetable Gardens: 24 No-Fail Plans for Small Organic Gardens. Visit BarbaraPleasant.com.

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April 2011

healthykids (worm tea) from the compost and dilute it with water to sprinkle any garden with an extra dose of natural fertilizer. Both will promote strong, healthy plants that are resistant to disease. Our family has maintained a fourlevel worm bin just outside our kitchen door for five years, and for me, the hardest part of getting started was opening the box of wigglers. Now, we have more worm castings and worm tea than I can use, so I routinely pack up the castings into resealable plastic bags, pour the tea into bottles, and use both as muchwelcomed gifts.

KIDS DIG

WORM COMPOSTING Red Wigglers Turn Kitchen Scraps into Gardening Gold by Jessica Iclisoy

our family loves to shop at area farmers’ markets, investigating greens and other veggies to make meals bursting with vitamins and minerals. Yet, it’s not always easy raising children who love to eat the fruits, veggies and salad makings you tote home. So consider mixing in a strategic science lesson—all you need are a few thousand wiggly worm friends to gobble up kitchen scraps; waste that would normally go into the trash and municipal landfill. For kids, worm composting gives food preparation a special mission: The worms must be fed! Worm composting, also known as vermiculture, produces nutrient-rich worm castings. In kid parlance, that’s “worm poop.” This organic matter provides the perfect soil conditioner and organic food for plants, indoors and out. It’s also easy to harvest the liquid 58

Fairfield County Edition

A well-designed worm composter is opaque and has a secure lid and ventilation holes. Peaceful Valley Farm & Garden Supply, in Grass Valley, California, offers both a deluxe bin and inexpensive do-it-yourself worm bin kit at GrowOrganic.com. Or, find step-by-step instructions to build your own at the educational website, RedWormComposting.com, which also lists reputable sources for worms (the pictures alone are enough to juice kids’ interest). Keep these tips in mind for successful composting, indoors or out: n The best worms for composting are red wigglers. According to the Peaceful Valley company, one or two pounds of mature red worms can convert 3.5 to 7 pounds of food scraps into castings in one week.

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n Newspaper provides cover. Shred or tear old newspapers into strips and place a fluffy layer on top to cover food scraps and discourage flies. Also use paper on the bottom to provide bedding for the worms. n Keep the worm bin moist. Periodic spritzing with a spray bottle or fine mist from the hose will keep wigglers moisturized and on the move. n Worms prefer a vegetarian diet; so don’t add cheese or meat scraps to the compost pile. Do feel free to toss in cereal, grains and rinsed, crushed eggshells. If possible, chop up all vegetable waste prior to adding it to your bin to speed up the composting process. Jessica Iclisoy, the founder of California Baby natural baby care products, writes about natural living and backyard organic gardening in Beverly Hills, CA. She also maintains two worm bins and three composters. Connect at Jessica@ CaliforniaBaby.com.

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FRIDAY, APRIL 1 How To Make Your Golden Years Golden 6:308:30pm. Maria Castillo, LCSW will provide tools to make one’s Golden Years Golden. $25. Kindred Spirits. 59 Ledgewood Rd. Redding. 203.938.3690.

SATURDAY, APRIL 2 Restorative Yoga 1-3pm. Helps lower blood pressure, nervous system calms and a peaceful state of deep relaxation is achieved. $25 preregister required. 777 Federal Rd. Brookfield. 203.775.6220. Early Evening Hike 5-6:45pm. Circle Mead Lake in search of colorful tree buds, early flowers and any early emerging turtles, frogs, snakes, and insects, and returning wetland and water birds. All ages. Greenwich Audubon. RSVP: 203.869.5272x221. Become a yoga teacher – Meet & Greet 5:306:30pm. Tour the studio, ask questions, meet the faculty director, Lara Azzarito Ward and ask questions about becoming a yoga teacher. Free. Graceful Planet. 7 Berkshire Rd. Sandy Hook. 860.354.6241.

SUNDAY, APRIL 3 April Autism Awareness Month Sensory Friendly Film Program presents: Ice Age 3, Dawn of the Dinosaurs 11am. The Ridgefield Playhouse will be hosting a different film on each of the following dates: 4/10, 4/17, 4/23. $6. 203.438.5795.

MONDAY, APRIL 4 Massage Therapy, Medical Assisting and Medical Billing and Coding programs begin; Monday-Friday 8am-1pm. Ridley-Lowell Business & Technical Institute. 24 Shelter Rock Rd. Danbury. 203.797.0551.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR “Help Us Build The Farm” Benefit Gala for Friends of Autistic People (FAP)

May 4th

w/Peter Yarrow (of Peter, Paul & Mary fame) to help raise funds for a prototype “green” farm academy for adult children with autism that will be a living & learning teaching facility with animal assisted therapy programs with rescue horses.

For information and RSVP, please contact: 203.661.8510 • AutisticAdults.com

MARK YOUR CALENDAR Father and Son Adventure Weekend April 30-May 1 Do you enjoy shooting bows and arrows, tending fires and going on adventures? Have you been looking for an opportunity to spend time with your boys in nature? $185. Program held at

Sticks and Stones Farm, Newtown www.TwoCoyotes.org for more info Play & Tea 1-2pm. Sip tea & learn about the Mixed-Age Kindergarten 3-6 year olds; Growing Together program for moms, dads & children 2 months - 3 years. The Clover Hill School. Christ Episcopal Church. Norwalk. 203.661.6484. Introduction to Mindfulness 7-9 pm w/ Joy LeVine Abrams. Experience of meditation, gentle yoga, body awareness and mindful eating. Free. Fairfield Woods Library. 1147 Fairfield Woods Rd. Fairfield. Joy: 203.255.8815. Monthly EFT Class 7:30-9:30pm w/ Roberta Russell, LMT. 1st Tuesday monthly. Combining body-mind medicine with self-acupressure. $25. Move2wellness. 635 Danbury Rd. Ridgefield. 203.403.2522.

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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6 Community Drum Circle 7pm. Share uplifting rhythms with facilitator Randy Brody. No experience necessary. Relieve stress, have fun. Drums provided. $15. Talent Education Suzuki School. 3 Quincy St. Norwalk. Info: 203.544.7085. Manifesting Your Heart’s Desire 7pm. Also held 4/13, 4/20, 4/27. The world’s big xerox machine. Join in manifesting what one really wants. Tanya Murphy. Love offering. Unity Center. 3 Main St. Norwalk. 203.855.7922. Natural Solutions to Anxiety 7pm w/Dr. Deb Bossio. Natural therapies to relieve anxiety and how to address underlying causes such as nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, food sensitivities, blood sugar dysregulation, and neurotransmitter imbalances. Move2Wellness. Ridgefield. 203.403.2522. Reiki Healing Circle for Practitioners 7:309pm. Tracy Mignone and June Fagan facilitate this event. Practitioners are able to share experiences and practice the healing modality. $10 donation. Kindred Spirits. 59 Ledgewood Rd. Redding. 203.938.3690.

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April 2011

MARK YOUR CALENDAR Tree Whispering®: Holistic Partnership June 3 – 5 Omega Institute • Rhinebeck, NY Tune up abilities to sense, feel, ask, listen, love. Journey into tree/plant’s world. Intuitively receive their messages. Sacred & practical: learn chores in cooperative partnership. Use touch & permission-based, holistic energy-healing methods. $300 plus room & meals. Register & Directions: www.Eomega.org www.TreeWhispering.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 7

Finally! Your Healthy Living, Healthy Planet DISCOUNT Network! Attention, Providers of Healthy Products and Services: Natural Awakenings invites you to join our discount network focusing on natural health and a healthy, sustainable lifestyle. As a Natural Awakenings Network Provider, You Can:

• Expand your customer base while increasing your income

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Teen Zombie Night 7pm. Think one has what it takes to survive a Zombie Apocalypse? It’s mind over mind-eaters, participate in a zombiethemed role-playing game (RPG). Middle School & up. Westport Library. McManus Room. Free. 203.291.4809.

FRIDAY, APRIL 8 Hear Our Voice Auction: 7pm & Performance: 8pm.. $25 General admission. Call about Premium Tickets. Norwalk Concert Hall. City Hall. 125 East Ave. Norwalk. 203.866.7004.

SATURDAY, APRIL 9 Clinical Orthopedic Massage Techniques for the Neck 10am-6pm. Hands-on experience covering body mechanics for effective deep tissue work, stretching techniques and joint mobilization. 16 CE credits. Ridley-Lowell. 24 Shelter Rock Rd. Danbury. RSVP & Price: 203.797.0551. Sampler Class 10:30am-12pm. Experience the warmth of the Waldorf setting & rhythm of MixedAge Kindergarten morning for 3-6 year olds. Meet teachers and enrolled parents. The Clover Hill School. Christ Episcopal Church. Norwalk. 203.661.6484.

SUNDAY, APRIL 10 Third Annual Walk/Run for Lyme’s Disease Registration: 9:30am. Rain or shine. The event

MARK YOUR CALENDAR Fibromyalgia & CHRONIC PAIN LECTURE THURSDAY, APRIL 21 • 7 PM

We are NOW building our Connecticut Provider Network. To become a NAN Provider,call 203.885.4674 60

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Dinner lecture presented by Dr. Scott Bender, who will speak about a highly effective treatment – a gentle, drug-free, and natural approach called Atlas Orthogonal which has helped thousands of patients regain their health. Madonia Restaurant, 1297 Long Ridge Rd, Stamford.

Call to reserve your space: 203.967.8888. Limited seating. ConnecticutSpineAndHealth.com

MONDAY, APRIL 11

MARK YOUR CALENDAR Two Coyotes Wilderness School Spring 2011 Programs Wilderness After-school Program April 6 - May 20 $325 Nature Skills for Kids April 2, May 7, June 18 $175 Wildwood Rangers April 3, May 8, June 19 $175

Community Drum Circle 7:30pm. Share uplifting rhythms with facilitator Randy Brody. No experience necessary. Relieve stress, have fun. Drums provided. $15/$5 seniors and kids under 12. Norfield Grange. 12 Good Hill Rd. Weston. Info: 203.544.7085. Signs From Our Angels 7:30-9pm. Receive messages from one’s angels and explore the messages given through numbers. Guided Meditation included. $10. Jane Russo’s Wellness Room. 65 Clinton Ave. Stratford. Reservation: 203.377.7984.

Programs held at

Sticks and Stones Farm, Newtown www.TwoCoyotes.org for more info will include a 5K and 10K run, and a 1 1/2 mile and 3 mile walk within the park, raffles, vendors, music, food and more. Sherwood Island State Park. Westport. Contact Orna Grand: 203.454.4024. Absolute Beginners Workshop 11:15am12:15pm w/ Jen Irwin. For beginners or those returning to practice after a time away. Class prepares one to feel comfortable dropping into any level. Dew Yoga. 923 High Ridge Rd. Stamford. 415.302.9932. Awakening the Spiritual Parent 1-3pm. An interactive workshop for parents, grandparents, and caregivers who want to learn what it means to be spiritually gifted and how to use this information to assist their children fulfill their life’s purpose. $40. Move2Wellness. Ridgefield. 203.403.2522.

TIMELY TOPICS IN NATURAL MEDICINE with Henry C. Sobo, MD April 27th • 7 PM A free lecture series. This month: “Body Detoxification & Acid Alkaline Balance”. Dr. Sobo will discuss the importance of nutritional cleansing for health and longevity. Q&A following – an opportunity to get to know you and answer your questions.

111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford. RSVP, limited seating: 203.348.8805. DrSobo.com

AWAKEN FAIR SATURDAY, APRIL 16 Doubletree Hotel Tarrytown, NY 10591 Our 10th fantastic year! The area’s biggest body-mind-spirit wellness fair www.AwakenFair.com

Sponsors • Exhibitors • Speakers: www.ThePractitioners.com

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 13 Animé Night 6:30pm. An evening of animé bring ideas for content, share items from one’s personal collection, & browse the Library has to offer. Middle-school age & up. Westport Library. McManus Room. Free. 203.291.4809. A Beginners Guide to Chakras 7-9pm. Learn basic principles and simple techniques to reveal positive changes in one’s life using pendulums; and tuning forks to clear and invigorate these energy centers. $25. Stamford Adult Ed. 203.977.4209.

THURSDAY, APRIL 14 Open House 6-8pm. Find out about a new career in Massage Therapy, Medical Assisting or Medical Billing & Coding. Tour the campus, meet faculty, speak with financial aid. Free. Ridley-Lowell Business & Technical Institute. 24 Shelter Rock Rd Danbury. 203.797.0551. Thomas Berry, Dreamer of the Earth 7pm. Free lecture and book signing with Dr. Allan Combs. The Graduate Institute. 171 Amity Rd. Bethany. 203.874.4252.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

FRIDAY, APRIL 15 Questions & Answers about Reiki 7-9:30pm w/ Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher. Talk about Reiki w/ Q & A’s. Non-Reiki: 7-8:15pm. $5. Talk w/ Q & A for Reiki practitioners: 8:15-9:30pm. $10. Angelic Healing Center. Norwalk. Preregister: 203.852.1150. Órla Fallon, solo artist from Celtic Woman 8pm. $50 Gold Circle with meet & greet, $40. Ridgefield Playhouse. 80 East Ridge. Ridgefield. 203.438.5795.

SATURDAY, APRIL 16 Workshop: Migration & Early Spring Migrants 9:30am-12pm. Learn about migration, recent bird research, and the many early spring migrants in our area. Adults & youth. $12/adult. Free/youth. RSVP required. Ted: 203.869.5272x230. Soul Collage Workshop 1-4:30pm w/ Dana Michie. Soul Collage cards are beautiful, fun to make, and brings surprisingly useful insights about one’s self. Anyone can do this. Dew Yoga. 923 High Ridge Rd. Stamford. 415.302.9932. Hanuman’s Birthday Celebration 7:30-9pm. Sharada Wen leads The Chalisa and shares stories from the Ramayana, setting every soul aflame into its true, limitless potential. $25 pre-register. 777 Federal Rd. Brookfield. 203.775.6220.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR Natural Awakenings NATURAL CONNECTIONS Night Wednesday, April 20 7-9pm Join us for an Earth Celebration at Beach Recovery Café. Art gallery tour. local green businesses & organizations on hand to offer advice & exhibit the latest eco-friendly options. Free. 542 Westport Ave, Norwalk. Limited space. RSVP: 203.885.4674

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April 2011

COMING IN MAY

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 20 Earth Day Children Fair 3:15-5:30pm. Animal Embassy is coming, and there will be some exciting, new outdoor activities, plus old-fashioned fun and games. Free. White Barn Campus. 440 Newtown Ave. Norwalk. 203.762.9860. Awakening the Hidden Storyteller 6pm. Join Storyteller of the Year Robin Moore for a free workshop to unleash your inner creativity! The Graduate Institute. 171 Amity Rd. Bethany. 203.874.4252. Natural Awakenings Natural Connections Night 7-9pm. Hosted by Beach Recovery Café. Join us for an Earth celebration, guest artist speaker, art gallery tour, local green exhibitors and refreshments. Free. 542 Westport Ave. Norwalk. RSVP: 203.885.4674.

THURSDAY, APRIL 21 Free Dinner Lecture for Fibromayalgia & Chronic Pain Sufferers 7pm. Dr. Scott Bender will present a highly effective, painless and nonsurgical solution. Limited to only those who are Fibromayalgia and chronic pain sufferers. Madonia Restaurant, 1297 Long Ridge Rd. Stamford. Limited seating. RSVP: 203.967.8888.

WOMEN’S WELLNESS

SATURDAY, APRIL 23 Eco Kid Bash! 1-4pm. Rain or shine. Families will meet eco-conscious vendors. Children will have entertainment, get their face painted, and make crafts from recycled materials. Free. Inside the Arcade Mall. 1001 Main St. Bridgeport. Info: 800.385.6080.

MONDAY, APRIL 25

SPECIAL EDITION Feel good both inside and out Express your natural beauty Celebrate feminine power

Play & Tea 1-2pm. Sip tea & learn about the Mixed-Age Kindergarten 3-6 year olds; Growing Together program for moms, dads & children 2 months - 3 years. The Clover Hill School. Christ Episcopal Church. Norwalk. 203.661.6484. Film: The Science of Miracles with Gregg Braden 7pm. Scientists confirmed the existence of a field of energy that connects us with everything in this world. Free. Tully Health Center. Stamford. 877.233.9355.

203.885.4674 62

Fairfield County Edition

Manifest Your Desired Reality through Meta-Consciousness Journeys Wed. April 13, 27, May 4, 11 6-8 PM Rosario Mazer Life Coach & Meta-Consciousness Guide Includes: Coaching and transmission of “Divine Energy”. Fee: $185 102 River West, Greenwich Register: 203.253.6733 & 646.383.7918 or   info@lifecoachingtransformation.com or LifeCoachingTransformation.com/oneness-meta-consciousness

prevention. Free. 111 High Ridge Rd. Stamford. 203.348.8805.

THURSDAY, APRIL 28 Intuitive/Psychic Development 7:30pm. Experience connecting with one intuition. Develop one’s psychic ability with a friendly, and casual group. $10. Jane Russo’s Wellness Room. 65 Clinton Ave. Stratford. Reservation: 203.377.7984.

SATURDAY, APRIL 30 Healing Into Balance: A Body, Mind, Spirit Approach to Daily Calm 9:30am-3:30pm. Cathleen O’Connor Ph.D, Metaphysical Counseling; Techniques to connect with inner peace. $45. Albertson Memorial Church. 293 Sound Beach Ave. Old Greenwich. 203.629.2669. Free Classes with Graduating Yoga Students 9:30am-5:30pm. Graceful Planet. 7 Berkshire Rd. Sandy Hook. 860.354.6241. World Tai Chi & Qi Gong Day 10am-1pm. The public is invited to discover a variety of T’ai Chi & Qigong forms and experience the power of “qi” (energy). Free. Milford Green. 203.843.1595. Withinsight’s Triple Spiral Energies ~ The Spirit of Mirth 2-5 pm. Come and rediscover the playfulness of the Maiden, revitalize the Maiden’s passions with joyful new practices. Withinsight Temple Home. Monroe. Fee: $50. Reservations: 203.259.1561.

TUESDAY, APRIL 26 Angel Card Reading for your self 7-9:30pm w/ Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher. Introduction: Learn techniques to help one to connect with one’s angels. $28. Angelic Healing Center. 7 Morgan Ave. Norwalk. Must pre-register: 203.852.1150.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 27

For more information about advertising and how you can participate, call

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Open House at The Graduate Institute 5pm. Discover Masters degree programs for lifelong transformation. 171 Amity Rd. Bethany. 203.874.4252. Timely Topics in Natural Medicine - 1st in the Monthly lecture series 7pm w/ Henry C. Sobo, MD. Learn a self directed program for detoxification, a healthier lifestyle and disease

natural awakenings

MARK YOUR CALENDAR A Celebration of Spirit

60th Anniversary of Wainwright House

Saturday, May 14, 2-7 PM Details coming Soon! Wainwright House 260 Stuyvesant Avenue Rye, NY 10580 www.Wainwright.org

A BILLION ACTS OF GREEN: CELEBRATING EARTH DAY 2011

o you believe in the power of the individual to change the world? Earth Day Network’s A Billion Acts of Green campaign aims to harness the power of millions of individuals, businesses and other organizations through pledges to live and act sustainably in specific ways. Acts range from riding a bike instead of driving to retrofitting a workspace to use renewable energy, as well as organizing or participating in an Earth Day event. In all, more than 45 million acts have already been pledged, including large-scale initiatives such as community beach cleanups, greening schools and tree planting in 16 countries. The goal is to prompt 1 billion large and small acts by the start of the global 2012 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro. When millions of individuals and groups join in local Earth Day events and vow to follow through on their own pledges to better their environment, the impact can be huge.

Here’s a sampling of Fairfield County events… FRIDAY, APRIL 15 Greenwich Land Trust’s (GLT) Earth Day Nature Preserve Clean Up 203.629.2151 jacinta@GLTrust.org GLTrust.org An afternoon of service at several GLT properties. Get outside with friends, family, neighbors and give back to your community. Bring gloves. Wear sturdy shoes. Rain or shine.

TUESDAY-THURSDAY, APRIL 19-21 Stamford Museum & Nature Center’s “Take a Hike” Week 39 Scofieldtown Rd., Stamford 203.322.1646 StamfordMuseum.org Free/members. Gate admission for nonmembers.Hands-on activities including a variety of guided hikes and an educational scavenger hunt.

WEDNESDAY APRIL 20 Earth Day Children’s Fair White Barn Campus 440 Newtown Ave., Norwalk 3:15 to 5:30 p.m. 203.762.9860

THURSDAY, APRIL 28 Bill McKibben, Author Talk on Eaarth Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Rd., Wilton 7 to 9 p.m. 203.762.3952 RaceForTheEarth.com Renowned environmental author Bill McKibben discusses his latest book, “Eaarth, Making a Life on a Tough New Planet.” Registration recommended.

THROUGH SATURDAY, APRIL 30 Recycle Your Old Sneakers Collection at Greenwich High School 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. 203.629.2876 DaviesAlly@aol.com GreenwichCT.org

Animal Embassy is coming, and there will be some exciting, new outdoor activities, plus oldfashioned fun and games. Free.

Recycle your old sneakers into playground and athletic surfaces. Bring old sneakers to a drop-off site, such as The Bruce Museum, or collect old sneakers and bring them April 30. Sneakers must be dry. No cleats or street shoes.

Natural Awakenings Natural Connections Night Beach Recovery Café 542 Westport Ave., Norwalk. 7 to 9p.m. RSVP: 203.885.4674

SATURDAY, APRIL 30

Join us for an Earth celebration, guest artist speaker, art gallery tour, local green exhibitors and refreshments. Free.

Habitat for Humanity ReStore’s Green Fair 1785 Stratford Ave., Stratford. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m 203.383.4358 FairfieldCountyRestore.org HabitatCFC.org/Calendar.htm Green business vendors and a special appearance by A&E’s Flip This House.

SATURDAY, APRIL 23 Earth Day Celebration at Stepping Stones Museum Mathews Park, 303 West Avenue, Norwalk 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 203.899.0606 SteppingStonesmuseum.org Event includes Norwalk author Jill Dunn reading from her book “I Want to go Green but What Does That Mean?”

Eco Kid Bash! Arcade Mall, 1001 Main St., Bridgeport 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Info: 800.385.6080 Rain or shine. Families will meet ecoconscious vendors. Children will have entertainment, get their face painted, and make crafts from recycled materials. Free.

All ages. Theme: How Green is our Town?” Local leaders/supportApril 30th, 2011, ers ofSaturday, green initiatives, eco-friendly services and 10:00 am – 4:00 pm products, family entertainment, Fairfield Ward High School, Fairfield, CT music.

FREE admission Green Earth Fair Held in Westport This year’s Earth Day event will feature an array Earthplace, 10local Woodside of exhibitors from residents and Lane, Westport to businesses that are leading 11 organizations a.m. to 4 p.m. and supporting green initiatives which are 203.227.7253 laying the ground workEarthplace.org and creating a green infrastructure in Fairfield.

$5. All Joinages. Hands-on Us at Fairfield’s Earth earth-friendly Day Celebration For: demonstrations, marine animal touch tank, music, • Local Green Initiatives • Eco-Friendly crafts, healthy local food choices, hybrid cars, • Great Food, Music Transportation Exhibit & Magic • Green Products organic lawn care, and more. Rain or shine. • Activities for Kids & Services Fairfield's Earth Day Celebration Features:

SUNDAY, MAY 1

April 27, 30 & MAY 1 “Rotting Right in Ridgefield” Composting Lecture Series Practically Green, 23 Catoonah St., Ridgefield 203.431.3000 gogvi.org GoPracticallyGreen.com. 3-part series about backyard composting and which system best fits your lifestyle. Limited space available. Advanced registration required.

Fairfield’s Earth Day Celebration Fairfield Ward High School 755 Melville Ave., Fairfield. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 203.256.3010 FairfieldEarthDay.WordPress.com

• Open Space Acquisition • Energy Management • Water Pollution Control Improvements • Wetlands Management • Comprehensive Recycling • Resource Recovery • Alternative Fuel Vehicles

• Local Electric Generation • Solar Powared Initiatives • Energy Education Programs • Saco Creek Watershed Restoration • Tree City Designation • Local Green Initiative

Wilton Go Green Festival! Wilton Library and the Wilton Town Green 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. WiltonGoGreen.org RaceForTheEarth.com Exhibits, demonstrations, workshops, information on making better use of energy, money and resources, plus fun family activities.

fairfieldearthday.org

eNaturalAwakenings.com

April 2011

ongoingevents

sunday Sunday Worship 11am-12:15pm. Doors open at 10:30am for Silent Prayer and Meditation. Worship service integrates music, prayer, healing, meditation, inspiration and Spirit Communication. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism. 293 Sound Beach Ave. Old Greenwich. 203.637.4615. New Eckankar Class: The Call of Soul 11am12:30pm. 3rd Sunday monthly. Book discussion. Learn to go inside oneself because this is the source of all Truth. Newtown. Register: 203.417.8434. Meditation 7pm. Led by rotating practitioners. Free. Move2wellness. 635 Danbury Rd. Ridgefield. 203.403.2522.

monday Pilates Mat Class 9am w/ Megan Bascom, Instructor. Basic level class focused on the principles of Pilates including alignment, breath, and core strengthening. A great place to start or strengthen technique. $20. Black Rock Pilates. 2889 Fairfield Ave. RSVP: 203.335.1987. Be Strong, Stretched & Center Yoga 9-10:15am w/ Lara Ward. Also held Fridays. Class brings health and tones the body while finding the calm within. Jewish Community Center. 9 Rte 39 So. Sherman. 10 classes/$130. Drop-in $17. 860.354.6241. Group Cycling Classes 9:15am. Also on Saturday & Sunday. Various times thru-out the week. Enjoy different instructors for each class. All levels welcome. No-Limit Health & Fitness. 1120 Federal Rd. Brookfield. Call for complete scheduling: 203.775.8548. Svaroopa® Stress Relief Yoga 9:30am, 11am & 5:45pm w/ Mazie. Rejuvenating and bliss-filled (yin & yang) asana and pranayama practice unravels tension, increase circulation, flexibility, energy, enhancing immune system. $20. $150/10 classes. Catch Your Breath. Fairfield. 203.255.9111. Children’s Expression Sessions 4:15-5:15 p.m. Playful, creative arts workshops enhance self image and esteem. Ages 8-12. $35/session. Allison Spitzer 203.261.7615. The EDGE Learning System 5 & 6pm. Ages 6-12. Groups enhance the child’s motor, speech, reading, math, social and visual skills improving grades, performance and self esteem. $50. Total Learning and Therapy Center. Trumbull. 203.268.8852. Family Karate Night 5:30-6:30pm. June Fagan teaches Kempo Karate to families. No experience required. $20 each or $60 for a family of 4 or more. Kindred Spirits. 59 Ledgewood Rd. Redding. Please call: 203.938.3690. Intermediate Yoga Class at Nu~Yoga Studio 6-7:30pm w/ Sally Grillo. Also on Wednesdays. Welcome to a yoga class created for intermediate level students. Connect to inner calm and emerge refreshed and renewed.$20. 32-34 Main St. Ste. 6. Norwalk. 203.854.6744.

Fairfield County Edition

The Thought Exchange 7pm w/ David Friedman. A support group based on having new thoughts. What if what one’s life just mirrors one’s thoughts? Cost: Love Offering. Unity Center for Practical Spirituality. 3 Main St. Norwalk. 203.855.7922. Intro to Yoga w/ Barbara 7pm. Learn basic postures to help strengthen the body and relax the mind. 6 classes/$96. Santosha Center for Yoga & Health. 27 Hawleyville Rd. Newtown. 203.364.0851. Belly Dance Fusion 7-8:30pm w/ Naima Provo, LMT, RMT. No experience necessary! Learn movements focusing on muscle isolation, core strength, and correct posture. Drills and stretches to music cardio style. Move2wellness. 635 Danbury Rd. Ridgefield. 203.403.2522. Gentle/Intermediate Yoga 7:30pm. Kripalu/ Vinyasa Style. $12/class or 8 classes/$80. Jazzercise Fitness Studio. 633 Hope St. Stamford. 203.845.8856. Group Therapy for Men and Women 8-9:30pm w/ Sandra Eagle, LCSW. Begins 2/28. Combines techniques from meditative and psychotherapeutic traditions promoting healing and expanding consciousness. 8 sessions. Ongoing sessions available. 34 E Putnam Ave. Greenwich. Info/fees: 203.550.2111.

tuesday Intro to Feldenkrais® classes 7 & 8:15am. 1 hour. Through 1/18. A gentle tune-up for mind and body. Special focus on improving balance and breathing. $21.50/class. The Ananda Center.16 Forest St. New Canaan. 203.274.5085. Women’s Karate Class 9:30-10:30pm. June Fagan teaches Kempo Karate to women of all ages. No experience required. $20. Kindred Spirits. 59 Ledgewood Rd. Redding. 203.938.3690. Pilates Plus w/ Sally Grillo 9:30-10:30am. Pilates exercises enhance health, strengthen muscles and create length throughout the body. For all levels with modifications for injuries and limitations. $20. Nu-Yoga Studio. 32-34 Main St. Suite 6 Norwalk. 203.854.6744. Iyengar Style Yoga 9:30-10:45am w/ David Schoenberg. Beginners Class (does not mean easy, but accommodating with use of props). Practice asanas and pranayama: develop strength, balance, poise. $15. Redding Meditation Center. 9 Picketts Ridge. Redding. 203.544.1090. Feldenkrais® classes 5:45-6:45pm. Lisa Shufro, certified instructor, leads this gentle tune-up for mind and body. Great for flexibility, better posture, and stress relief. $20. Dew Yoga. Stamford. 203.274.5085. Gentle Hatha Yoga w/ Letty 5:45-7pm. All ages & abilities. $20/class. Classes ongoing. Greenwich Senior & Arts Center. 2nd Fl. Meeting Room. 299 Greenwich Ave. 203.862.6750. Beginners Yoga class at Nu-Yoga Studio 6-7:30pm w/ Sally Grillo. Uplifting class to learn about yoga, reduce stress and clearing the mind.

natural awakenings

This class includes postures, breathing techniques and relaxation. Sign up is on-going. $20. Norwalk. Sally: 203.854.6744. Qi Gong and Tai Ji Quan (Tai Chi) Class 6:30pm w/ Cliff Martin. Integrated Healthcare Associates. 992 High Ridge Rd. 3rd Fl. Stamford. Info: 203.750.0731. Yoga at First Presbyterian Church 6-7pm. All levels & drop-ins welcome. Hatha Vinyasa Yoga. Wear exercise clothes. $10. Fish Church Lounge. 1101 Bedford St. Stamford. Info: 203.550.8811. Green Drinks Bridgeport 6-8pm. 4th Tuesday monthly. A casual gathering of green-minded people who get together and share ideas about living sustainable lifestyles. Free. Bridgeport. Call for Location: 203.536.4695. Green Drinks Fairfield 6-8pm. 1st Tuesday monthly. A casual gathering of green-minded people who get together and share ideas about living sustainable lifestyles. Free. The Shack. 2070 Post Rd. Fairfield. 203.536.4695. HEAL Support Circle 6:30-8pm. 3rd Tuesday monthly. A peer-support group led by trained cofacilitators is for victims/survivors of emotional abuse or any violence or trauma, the group meets monthly. Brookfield Town Hall. For info call 203.305.2137. Qi Gong/Reiki Meetup 6:30-8:30pm. Study alternative healing modalities, concentrating on Reiki, chi gung, meditation and mantra w/ Andy Sinn. $15. The Ananda Center. 16 Forest St. New Canaan. 203.273.8364. A Course in Miracles 7pm. Also Wednesday at 10am. Facilitated by Joan Goss. Cost: Love Offering. Unity Center for Practical Spirituality. 3 Main St. (above Ford dealership). Norwalk. Info: 203.855.7922. HIV/AIDS Education Support Group 7-8:15pm w/ Rodney Mailloux, MS LADC. For those affected and infected, and any related substance abuse and lifestyle issues. Free. APGD. 30 West St. Danbury. 203.778.2437. Lyme Disease Support Group 7-8:30pm. 3rd Tues monthly. Informational, emotional and experiential support to cope with the mind-body distress of chronic illness. Free. Weston Library, 56 Norfield Rd. Register with Deni Weber: 203.544.6094. Acupuncture, Health & Greening The Environment 7-8:30pm weekly talks with acupuncturist Ingri Boe-Wiegaard. Free. Location varies; Wilton, Bethel & Fairfield. Call Ingri for info: 203.259.0166. MMA Classes (Standup Fighting & Grappling) 7:15-8:30pm. Also on Thursdays. Sensei Robert Neal, ranked #1 Masters Level, National Title Holder. $10 per class. No-Limit Health & Fitness. 1120 Federal Rd. Brookfield. 203.775.8548. Back Yard Beekeepers 7:30pm. Last Tuesday monthly January-June and September-November. BYBA’s provides its membership with practical info on how to’s of beekeeping. 6:30pm for new beekeepers. Free. Norfield Church. Community Rm. 64 Norfield Rd. Weston. Exchange Reiki/Healing Circle 7:30pm. 1st & 3rd Tuesdays w/Gigi Benanti, Usui/Karuna Reiki

Master/Teacher. Reiki circle for all levels of Reiki Practitioners only. Percentage is given to Charity. $10. Angelic Healing Center. Norwalk. Please preregister: 203.852.1150. Psychic Circle 7:30-9pm. 3rd Tuesday monthly. Come play in the psychic world. Enjoy tapping into intuition; connect to guides and deceased loved ones. No experience necessary; everyone can play. $25. Info: Melanie Barnum, CH. 203.451.0914. Therapy group for Recovering Alcoholics 8-9:30pm w/ Sandra Eagle, LCSW. Begins 2/8. Teaching grounding techniques, used to selfregulate e.g. anxiety, depression, volatility, cravings. 8 sessions. Ongoing sessions available. 34 E Putnam Ave. Greenwich. Info/fees: 203.550.2111.

wednesday Early MornYoga 8-9am w/ Carol Shwidock MA, OTR, RTY. Start the day with this motivating Kripalu style class. Mixed level class. Drop-Ins encouraged. Harmony Yoga Studio. 48 Union St. Stamford. 203.962.4672. Creative Kvetching: Expressive Arts Therapy 9 and 11 a.m. Let it out, get it out! Somatic tools for healing, growth, change. Small group sessions, women only. $25. Allison Spitzer 203.261.7615. Kripalu Yoga 9:30am. Relax, refresh and renew w/ Kat Barton, 500 hour Kripalu Professional Level Yoga Teacher. $10 w/class card, $16.99 walk-ins. The Graceful Planet. Newtown. 203.426.8215. Yoga for 50 to Infinity 10:45am. Cost is only $1. Bethel Senior Center. Municipal Center. 1 School St. Bethel. 203.792.3048. Gentle Chair Yoga for Every-Body Class 121pm w/ Deb Del Vecchio-Scully, CIYT. Gentle yoga increases relaxation while decreasing pain and stress. $18 drop-in/$80 for 5 classes. Associated Neurologists of Southern CT. Fairfield. Registration required: 203.333.1133 ext. 152. Weekly Back School 1:30pm w/Dr. Christopher Mascetta. Free. Ridgefield Chiropractic and Wellness Center, 10 South St., Ste. 205, Ridgefield. RSVP – seating limited: 203.431.1688. Meditation, Yoga & Shivasana 5:30-6:45pm. A class devoted to opening the mind as well as the body. Explore movement, energy, focus and relaxation. $21.50/class. The Ananda Center. 16 Forest St. New Canaan. 203.274.5085. Mindfulness Meditation and Stress Reduction 5:30-7pm w/ Paul Epstein, ND. Practice, teachings, integration with life. 4/sessions $95. Drop in $25. Shamatha Yoga Studio. Stamford. 203.722.2358. Green Drinks Greenwich 5:30-7:30pm. Greenwich is joining the vibrant Green Drinks movement! Every 2nd Wednesday of the month. Locations vary, call 203.661.4774. Green Drinks Norwalk 6pm. 1st Wednesday monthly. A casual gathering of green-minded people who get together and share ideas about living sustainable lifestyles. Free. Locations vary, call 203.536.4695. Middle Eastern Belly Dance 6-7:30pm. Advanced Level. Instructor: Riskallah Riyad. First class free. A Common Ground. 346 Main St. Danbury. 203.267.1677.

Green Drinks Stamford 6-8pm. 4th Wednesday monthly. A casual gathering of green-minded people who get together and share ideas about living sustainable lifestyles. Free. Locations vary, call 203.536.4695. Journey within, Do you feel stuck? 7pm. 1st Wednesday monthly. Need support trying to begin something new? Support, intuitive insight, wisdom. Facilitator: Cindy Miller, intuitive. $20. Newtown Congregational Church. 14 West St. Newtown. Call: 203.426.9448. Reiki Share/Circle 7pm. 2nd Wednesday monthly w/ Hilda Swaby. Reiki for stress reduction and healing, supports changes in one’s world, balances the mind, body & spirit. Bring family and friends. Love Offering. Stamford. Call for directions: 203.554.1238. Kundalini Yoga and Meditation w/ Leesa 7:30pm. A blend of postures, kriyas, pranayama & meditation, which teaches the art of relaxation & self-healing. $17/class. Santosha Center for Yoga & Health. 27 Hawleyville Rd. Newtown. 203.364.0851.

thursday Hatha Yoga Class 9:30-11am. Flowing with grace. This class takes a close look at aligning postures therapeutically to serve individual needs. $20. Nu~Yoga Studio. 32-34 Main St. Ste 6. Norwalk. Contact: Sally Grillo: 203.854.6744. Bellydance creative healing workshop 6-10pm w/ Maria Fiora. Use dance and dance stretches to energize, be creative and relax the mind. Mention Natural Awakenings to receive a free class with the program. 201 Summer St. Stamford. 203.353.4363. Yoga at First Presbyterian Church 6:157:15pm. Meditation, stretching, twists, inversions to gentle music in candlelight. Great for the stressed

professional or mom. First Presbyterian Church, Lounge. 1101 Bedford St. Stamford. Questions: 203.550.8811. Qi Gong and Tai Ji Quan (Tai Chi) Class 6:30pm w/ Cliff Martin. Integrated Healthcare Associates. 992 High Ridge Rd. 3rd Fl. Stamford. Info: 203.750.0731. Reiki 7pm. 1st Thursday monthly. Unity Center. 3 Main St. Norwalk. For more information: 203.855.7922. Buddhist Chanting 7-8pm. Hosted by June Fagan. All welcome. Free. Kindred Spirits. 59 Ledgewood Rd. Redding. Please call: 203-938-3690. Kundalini Yoga & Meditation 7-8:30pm. A sacred technology that awakens the spirit, energizes the body and relaxes the mind. All ages & fitness levels. 10/$170. $20 drop in. Move2wellness. 635 Danbury Rd. Ridgefield. 203.403.2522. HEAL Support Circle 7-8:45pm. 2nd Thursday monthly. A peer-support group led by trained cofacilitators is for victims/survivors of emotional abuse or any violence or trauma, the group meets monthly. Norwalk Library. For info call 203.305.2137. Awakening Joy... Happiness through Meditation 7:15-8:45pm w/ Paul Epstein, ND. Practice, teachings, integration with life. $25 drop-in. Pymander Books. Main St. Norwalk. 203. 722.2358. Energywork Healing Circle at Daya Healing Arts 7:30-9:30pm. Michelle Lambert (Usui Reiki, Ama Deus Shamanic Healing Master) facilitates a guided meditation and group healing. New comers and practitioners of energy work invited. $12. Monroe. 203.820.6261. Night Out, Night Off, Cranky Couples ReConnect 8-9pm. Re-charge, renew & refresh your relationship. Engaging, creative activities and dialogue. $40/couple. Allison Spitzer 203.261.7615.

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Fairfield County Edition

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April 2011

friday

saturday

Nutritional Evaluation Visits 10am w/ Debi Greco, MD. Free. 31 Hawleyville Rd. Hawleyville/ Newtown. Call to schedule appointment: 203.798.8114.

Monthly Angelic Teleconferences: One hour with the Angels 1st Saturday of the month. First bi-lingual program w/ Ana Mercedes Rueda, facilitator. $20. Info: 203.426.9448.

Gentle Yoga w/ Sally Grillo at Nu~Yoga Studio 10:15-11:30am. A gentler, slower paced yoga class emphasizing correct alignment, breath awareness and energy flow. All proceeds go to charity! $20. Nu~Yoga, 32-34 Main St. suite 6, Norwalk. 203.854.6744.

Yoga & Pilates Fusion 8:30am w/ Kat Barton. Class utilizes weights, bands and balls. $10 w/ class card, $16.99 walk-ins. The Graceful Planet. Newtown. 203.426.8215.

Middle Eastern Belly Dance 11:45am-12:45pm. Beginner Level. Instructor: Riskallah Riyad. First class free. A Common Ground. 346 Main St. Danbury. 203.267.1677. Drumming Circle 7-8:30pm. 1st Fridays. Drums available or bring one. Suggested Donation $10. Touch of Sedona. 452 Main St. Ridgefield. 203.438.7146. Kirtan 7-9pm. 2nd Friday of every month. Satya Franche and Ma Kirtan. Call and reponse chanting. Suggested donation $10. Kids free. Touch of Sedona. 452 Main St. Ridgefield. 203.438.7146. Reiki Circle 7:30pm. 1st Fridays. w/ Luciana Walker Reiki Master. Experience Universal Reiki energy in an evening of Reiki’s healing effect. Release all stress and tension, relax muscles and mind and renew soul and spirit. $15. Easton. 203.767.6453. Reiki Drumming Circle 7:30pm. 3rd Fridays. w/ Luciana Walker Reiki Master. An evening of integrating sound with Reiki. Sound especially drumming is a wonderful way to promote inner peace while having fun. $15. TLC of Fairfield. 203.767.6453. Healing and Meditation Circle 7:30pm w/ Raffaello MiDeglio, karmic healer. 2nd Friday monthly. Come for a wonderful evening of meditation, prayer, healing and receive a message. $15. Newtown Congregational Church. 14 West St. Newtown. 203.426.9448.

Pilates Mat mixed level 8:30am. A combination of a traditional Pilates mat class and core challenging exercises using physio-ball. Great for anyone from athletes to someone who wants to tone. $20. Black Rock Pilates. 2889 Fairfield Ave. Call: 203.335.1987. Therapeutic Yoga 8:30-9:45am w/ Carol Shwidock. Carol combines Occupational Therapy knowledge with a passion for yoga in this healing Kripalu style class. All levels welcome. $20 or $180/10 classes. Harmony Yoga. 48 Union St. Stamford. 203.962.4672. Dharma Yoga w/ Yogi Brian 8:30-10:30am. The Ananda Center. 16 Forest St. New Canaan. 203.273.8364. Reiki Classes all levels 9am-6pm. Also Sundays. Winter Classes: RI/II, ART/Master. Info: ReikiOvertones students review free. ReikiOvertones call Jim or Jeannette: 203.254.3958. Santosha Yoga w/ Julie 9am. Santosha’s signature yoga class takes place outside on landscaped grounds next to a pond. $17/class. Santosha Center for Yoga & Health. 27 Hawleyville Rd. Newtown. 203.364.0851. Latin dance for relaxation from the week 10am w/ Maria Fiora. Fun workshop to get your weekend going. 201 Summer St. Downtown Stamford. 203.353.4363. Pre-Natal Yoga at Nu~Yoga Studio w/ Sally Grillo 10-11:30am. Yoga emphasizes breathing, relaxation, posture, and body awareness, help’s build strength, increases endurance, improves alignment, and reduces aches and pains. $20. NuYoga. Norwalk. 203.854.6744. Experience Karuna Reiki® (ICRT registered tm) 11am-1pm. 3rd Sat/monthly at Bloodroot Vegetarian. Restaurant. Tap into unlimited healing energy. $10. Make private appointment now! Info for ReikiOvertones call Jim or Jeannette: 203.254.3958. Reiki Workshop-Intro and Application for everyone 1-3pm Also Thursdays 7-9pm. $25 (applied towards future class). ReikiOvertones. Jim or Jeannette: 203.254.3958.

Within 10 years it will be impossible to travel to the North Pole by dog team. There will be too much open water.

Wine Tasting 12:30-8pm. Come to the Saturday Wine Tastings. A variety of organic wines always in stock. Free. New England Wine & Spirits. 590 Danbury Rd. Ridgefield. 203.438.6331. Recovery is for Everyone 2-3pm w/ Paul Bender & Dwight Tate. A consumer led recovery from mental illness support group. Share the recovery experience. Fairfield Library. Conference room D. Call Dwight or Paul: 203.218.7233.

~Will Steger 66

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

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

BUSINESS Opportunities CURRENTLY PUBLISHING NATURAL AWAKENINGS MAGAZINES – For sale in Birmingham, AL; Lexington, KY; Manhattan, NY; North Central, FL; Tulsa, OK; Southwest VA and Volusia/Flagler, FL. Call for details 239.530.1377. NATURAL AWAKENINGS MAGAZINE FRANCHISES: for sale in prime locations. Natural Awakenings now in 60+ cities. Call 877.530.1377.

FOR RENT Integrated Medical Practice in Norwalk looking for a new team member. Lab, tranquil exercise studio, office space on site, perfect for naturopath, yoga instructor or massage therapist. Contact Rory at rdoyle0213@yahoo.com or call 914.564.1982 Office space for rent in quiet Old Greenwich setting. Zoned Medical, 2 treatment rooms and reception. All health practitioners inquire. Contact Craig Swan 203.698.2965. Professional office//treatment room in Stamford wellness center. Beautiful space for consultation/therapy/bodywork. Flexible terms call Eileen 203-353-8811

HELP WANTED Colon Hydrotherapist for thriving practice in Stamford. See web: Internal-Hygiene.com. Gravity Method Trained. Great pay. Full and/or Part Time. Flexible Hours. If not Certified and still interested, please contact anyway. Email to: InternalHygiene@gmail.com. Home based business opportunity. Individuals desired for the largest wellness company in the world. You create your own income level! Contact Jean Dunphy 203.984.8999, JeanDunphy@gmail.com. Marketing/sales person needed for a wholesale green products company in Fairfield, Wilton, and Bethel. Call Ingri: 203.259.1660. Massage Therapist Position Newton, CT- Chiropractic/Acupuncture Office is looking for a massage therapist PT/FT. Open possibilities as an independent or employee. Please email JMPDC@AOL.COM so we can set a time to meet. Art & Music teachers wanted at The Little Red School of Art & Music. 2979 Main Street, Stratford. Piano and vocal instructors. 203.375.0692. Carolyn West, Owner.

OPPORTUNITIES WOMEN’S WISDOM RETREAT, JUNE 11-12. Includes Life Coaching and Inner Wisdom workshops, crystal bowl healing concert, yoga, meditation & lots of inspiration. Beautiful, relaxed setting at the Guest House in Chester, CT (less than an hour away). $249/$299. Sign-up w/ a friend by 4/5 and both get $25 off. Register & info: 203.885.4674.

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 Ingri Boe-Wiegaard, LAc  Fairfield, Wilton, Bethel 203.259.1660 CTacupuncture.com 25 year full time practice

Ingri treatments help alleviate Pain, Depression, Neck & Back, Anxiety, Headaches, Stress, Allergies, Asthma, Arthritis, Digestive, Menstrual, Infertility, and Smoking & Weight Loss Issues. See ad pg 32.

SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER Kenneth Hoffman, DAc, LAc 499 Federal Rd, Brookfield CT 203.740.9300 SophiaNaturalHealth.com

Combining Chinese Medicine with modern science, we restore health by identifying imbalances that cause illness. Acupuncture, Allergy Elimination, Chronic Pain Relief, Hormone Balancing, Thermography, Detoxification.

ALLERGIES BioSET Allergy Elimination Program

Dr. Mark Joachim Advanced Certified Practitioner 156 East Avenue, Norwalk 203.838.1555 Allergy-Cure-CT.com BioSET can eliminate all food and environmental allergies related to behavioral issues, asthma, eczema, headaches, fibromyalgia, sinus conditions, gastric disorders and chronic health conditions. Safe for all ages, without drugs, shots or side effects! See ad pg 13.

AROMATHERAPY YOUNG LIVING ESSENTAIL OILS

Cris Ann Mulreed 203.216.8413 pathfollowers@gmail.com Young Living is uniting ancient traditions and modern science to promote health and longevity. Through extensive research and commitment to quality, we are growing, distilling and manufacturing the highestquality organic essential oils and oil-enhanced products in the world.

BIO-FEEDBACK TECHNOLOGY JH Wellness, LLC

BREAST THERMOGRAPHY SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER

Bio-Feedback Technology Nutritional & Weight Loss Counseling JHWellness.com 203.716.1727

499 Federal Rd, Brookfield CT 203.740.9300 SophiaNaturalHealth.com

Experience our break through state-of-the art bio-communication technology. By removing the guesswork, this powerful and effective tool will assist in a lifetime of wellness. See ad pg 49.

BOOKSTORE

As the hormone experts, we specialize in women’s health, natural hormone balancing, breast cancer prevention and thermography utilizing the highest definition camera in the area with interpretations from MD specialists in the field. Thermogram results include a free 15-minute phone consultation.

X TO RAYS.COM

Pymander LLC

37 Wall Street, Norwalk, CT 06850 203.854.5596; Pymander95@Yahoo.com PymanderBooks.com Our center for positive energy is an oasis for wellbeing, inspiration and transformation. Come to our events and browse our spiritual and holistic health books, meditation CDs, jewelry, singing bowls, rocks, crystals, incense, chimes, Christian, Buddhist, Hindu and Native American sacred items.

BREAST THERMOGRAPHY Breastimage.net

John M. Popowich, DC Board Certified in Infrared Imaging 87 South Main St., #3, Newtown 203.300.4922 Celebrating 11 years in service, we offer High Resolution Computerized Digital Infrared Imaging for Breast Health. Scans start at $125.

Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging Suzanne Pyle, MS, CCT 866.XtoRAYS SuzannePyle@Prodigy.net Get peace of mind with safe (no radiation), FDA-approved breast cancer screening. 8 years earlier detection vs. mammography. Certified DITI thermographer. Conveniently located throughout Fairfield.

CHIROPRACTIC Brian K. Nathanson, DC 161 East Ave., Suite 102 Norwalk also Newtown location 203.313.3844 NEphysical.com

Specializing in the repair and rehabilitation of soft tissue injuries and post masectomy rehabilitation, utilizing acupuncture and the “non-thrust” Graston® techniques. Newtown appointments available as well.

COLONICS COLONICS AT LIFELINE HYGIENICS Rejuvenation Center Since 1993, Rye, NY 914.921.LIFE (5433)

Now offering personalized cleanse programs, lymphatic drainage massage, as well as our personalized colonics, since 1993. Rejuvenation at its best! See ad pg 14.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

April 2011

COLONICS

FAMILY SERVICES

GREENWICH COLON HYDROTHERAPY Kelly McCoy Located at Natural Medicine & Wellness Center Old Greenwich 203.698.9088

Allison B. Spitzer, MA

Expressive Therapeutic Coaching 203.261.7615 PeriwinkleHealth.com Children, teens, adults

Experience relief

Practical, ongoing support while handling issues such as ADD, depression, difficult parenting, obesity or loneliness. Traditional and creative sessions to help you manage life more comfortably and joyously. See ad pg 15.

Greenwich Colon from congestion and Hydrotherapy discover a greater sense

est. 1996 of well being. Colon Hydrotherapy helps to regain a deeper flow and creates balance in a world with pressure and toxicity. Relaxing treatments aid in achieving personal awareness to internal harmony. See ad pg 30.

Healing Steps

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC

Tracy King LCSW-R Early childhood thru adolescent counseling 914.589.6755 TracyAKing14@msn.com

Fairfield/Trumbull town line 203.371.8258 WholeBodyMed.com

Ready to star t 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 pg 10.

Supporting children and parents with expert knowledge in the field of mental health and psychiatry. Specialized in treating preschool age through adolescence with behavioral/emotional issues such as abuse, trauma, divorce, separation anxiety. See ad pg 38.

GREEN LIVING

EDUCATION Housatonic Valley Waldorf School

GET GREEN CLEAN

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 pg 17.

Shaklee is the 1st company in the world to be certified Climate Neutral. Start making your home cleaner for your family and the planet with the safe alternative to traditional household cleaning products. See ad pg 27, 41.

Tony Antolics, BSN, BA, RN Independent Shaklee Distributor 203.435.4476 TheNutritionNurse.com

40 Dodgingtown Road, Newtown 203.364.1113 WaldorfCT.org

eeg neurofeedback Adam Breiner, ND, Director Fairfield/Trumbull town line 203.371.8258 WholeBodyMed.com Improve Brain Function with RealTime EEG Neurofeedback. Learn about about this amazing technology, watch patients tell their own stories of improved focus, concentration, help in recovery from traumatic brain injuries on our video website at WholeBodyMed.com. See ad pg 10.

Fairfield County Edition

Leonard Kundel, DMD

1250 Summer Street, Stamford 203.487.6020 StamfordDentist.com The Way Dentistry should be! Discover the relationship of mouth and body. Learn what 96% of dentists won’t tell you. Find out how your mouth can help you sleep better, walk straighter and have improved relationships in your life.

MARK A. BREINER, DDS, FIAOMT

5520 Park Ave, Ste 301, Ffld Town Line Merritt Pkwy, Exit 47 203.371.0300 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 pg 17.

INTEGRATIVE OPTOMETRY DR. RANDY SCHULMAN, MS, OD, FCOVD Behavioral Optometrist Norwalk, CT 203.840.1991 vtotworks.com Visionworksvt@aol.com

Dr. Schulman specializes in vision therapy, pediatrics, learning disabilities, developmental delays, autism, TBI/stroke, and preventative and alternative vision care. She also practices Iridology, the study of the iris. Gain insights into your physical, emotional and spiritual being through this unique reading.

Green Maid, Inc.

All Natural & Organic Products Buy online at GreenMaidOrganics.com 203.558.2662

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC

HOLISTIC DENTIST

Green Maid, Inc. provides online home shopping for natural, organic and eco-friendly home and personal care products. Also providing Green residential cleaning services in select areas. See ad pg 11, 41.

natural awakenings

INTERFAITH MINISTRY REV. KAREN S. JUDD, LCSW

Counselor • USUI Reiki Master ReverendKarenSJudd.com Office: Bethel, CT 203.545.3664 Creates and performs Weddings, Union Ceremonies, Memorial Services and Baby Blessings. Life transitions - bereavement counseling; facilitating a deeper connection with yourself, others and the Divine.

MASSAGE & BODYWORK Robin Ordan, LMT, LCSW, CICMI Licensed Massage Therapist & Reiki Practitioner Old Greenwich/Stamford 203.561.8535; RobinOrdanLMT.com

Robin has been providing massage and Reiki for over 15 years. Specializing in Swedish, Pregnancy, Trigger Point, Injuries and Infant/Child Massage Instruction. Sessions are individualized to meet your needs. See ad pg 42.

MEDICAL DOCTOR HENRY C. SOBO, MD

Optimal Health Medical, LLC 203.348.8805 DrSobo.com Medical doctor practicing holistic/ alternative medicine & weight reduction in Stamford, CT. Nutrition, Allergy Desensitization, Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement for men and women. See ad pg 53.

Michael E. Doyle, MD

Conventional & Alternative Medicine 22 5th St Suite 201 Stamford, CT 06905. 203.324.4747 Specializing in Natural and Alternative approaches to restoring health. Focusing on underlying causes of illness. Hypothyroidism, hormonal imbalances, nutrition and much more. See ad pg 45.

RIVERSIDE OB/GYN

Russell Turk, MD Karen Zino, MD 1200 East Putnam Avenue Riverside, CT 06878 203.637.3337 Riverside Obstetrics & G y n e c o l og y i s a f u l l service medical practice incorporating traditional and holistic approaches to women’s health. The practice includes two OB/GYN’s and a naturopathic physician. See ad pg 31.

Natural Healthcare

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN Debra Gibson, ND

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC

158 Danbury Road, Suite 8 Ridgefield, CT 06877 203.431.4443 Natural family healthcare using nutrition and biochemistry; herbal, homeopathic, and energetic medicine; lifestyle transformation and detoxification, to promote well-being of body, mind and spirit. See ad pg 14.

Gary S. Gruber, ND

Family and Environmental Medicine 68 Old Stamford Road New Canaan, CT 06840 203.966.6360 ScienceMeetsNature.com “Where science meets nature with compassion.” Do you struggle with allergies, pain, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart or circulatory problems? Difficulty losing weight? Have you been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease or cancer? I have effective therapies for patients just like you. Family and Environmental Medicine for men, women, and children.

Dr. Marina Yanover, ND, LAc

Adam Breiner, ND, Director Elena Sokolova, MD, ND David Brady, ND, CCN, DACBN Fairfield/Trumbull town line 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 D e t ox i f i c a t i o n P r o t o c o l s , Electro-Der mal Screening, Energy Medicine, FDA-cleared P h o t o t h e r a py, 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 pg 10.

Nutrition

1300 Post Road East, Westport 203.255.5005 BigAppleHealth.com

Naturopathic Medicine, Acupuncture, Craniosacral Therapy, Natural Face Lift using microcurrent therapy. Specialties i n c l u d e Fa m i ly M e d i c i n e , Women’s Health, Endocrinology, G a s t r o e n t e r o l o g y, P a i n Management, Skin Care. Insurance accepted.

Naturopathic Health Center, LLC

2 locations: Shelton and Sandy Hook/Newtown 203.922.0029 NaturoHealthCenter.com Dr. Carolyn Graham, RN, ND Dr. Alice Bell, MS, ND We work with patients having a variety of illnesses from Lyme disease to cardiovascular disease, and autoimmune diseases to the common cold. Our specialties include environmental medicine, detoxification, nutritional therapy, FirstLine Therapy® and preventative medicine. See ad pg 17.

FixEat Nutrition and Health Services LLC

Riverside 203.940.1948 Info@FixEat.com FixEat.com At FixEat, we provide expert nutrition counseling tailored to your needs. General health, weight management, chronic disease, childhood, pregnancy, PCOS and more. Visit FixEat.com.

Mindy Kannon, CHHC Wilton, CT 203.210.7462 ChewYourRope.com

Achieve digestive health and your ideal weight with nutritional coaching. Offering cooking classes, personal chef services and health seminars for businesses. See ad pg 16.

WELLNESS INSTITUTE

WORDEN WELLNESS CENTER

Marvin P. Schweitzer, ND 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203.847.2788 DrMarvinSchweitzer.com

Combining natural health treatments, chiropractic, acupuncture, and nutrition to relieve pain and restore the body to optimal health and balance. See ad pg 8.

Family Health Care using all natural therapies for 25 years. Acupuncture, Bio-Identical Hormones, Homeopathy, Chinese/ Western Herbs, Allergy/Toxin Testing, Oxygen Therapy, Meridian Stress Assessment, Nutrition/ Enzyme Therapies. See ad pg 7.

41 Kenosia Ave, Danbury 203.748.8093 Healing the Whole Person

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN

eNaturalAwakenings.com

April 2011

OSTEOPATHIC PHYSICIAN

PSYCHOTHERAPY

Osteopathic Wellness Center, LLC

Maria C. Castillo, MSW, LCSW

Gentle, Natural, Handson Osteopathic Medical Care for Infants, Children & Adults. Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Health and Development, Birth Trauma, M u s c u l o s ke l e t a l Pa i n a n d Injuries, Nutrition and Wellness Counseling, Stress Reduction, Immune Support, Allergies. Most Major Insurances Accepted.

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.

David L Johnston, DO Lisa Preston, DO 158 Danbury Road, Ridgefield, CT 203.438.9915 OsteopathicWellness.net

238 Monroe Tpke. Suite B Monroe, CT 06468 203.445.8966 LifeBetweenLivesTherapy.com Msisi@AOL.com

Robin Ordan, LCSW

PSYCHOTHERAPY CAROLINE J. TEMPLE, MSW, LCSW Offices in Fairfield and Norwalk 203.866.9333; CTemple38@Yahoo.com MyWiseWoman.com

A Holistic Psychotherapist, Caroline offers a safe, supportive partnership for inner healing and change, tending to the emotional, spiritual and psychological needs of women through therapy, coaching, Reiki, and energy psychology.

DENI WEBER, MA, LPC, D-CEP Holistic Psychotherapist Comprehensive Energy Psychology Fairfield County DeniWeber.com 203.544.6094

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.

Family, Child, Individual & Couples Therapy Old Greenwich/Stamford, CT 203.561.8535; RobinOrdanLCSW.com Robin has over 18 years o f e x p e r i e n c e wo r k i n g with families and children. Specializing in Divorce, Parent/Child Conflict, Grief, Attachment /Bonding, Child Development and Parenting. See ad pg 38.

STACY RAYMOND, Psy.D

Clinical Psychologist for men and women Ridgefield, CT 203.438.4080 DrStacyRaymond.com Dr. Raymond offers traditional and alternative approaches to depression, anxiety and recovery from trauma. Energy psychology techniques (EMDR, HeartMath(R), EFT). Mind-body-spirit perspective of physical and/or emotional illness. Discover self-acceptance and begin to heal.

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REIKI GIGI BENANTI USUI REIKI MASTER Angelic Healing Center 7 Morgan Ave. Norwalk, CT 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.

HEALING HANDS

Jessica C. Hunter ~ Usui Reiki Practitioner 203.522.2673 Fairfield, CT HunterHealingHands.com Your well-being is my spiritual goal! Contact me to experience a personal Reiki session in your own home - I will travel to you! Certified & insured.

TURNING POINT REIKI, LLC

JoAnn Duncan, MS, RMT Reiki Master Ridgefield, CT 203.438.3050 TurningPointReiki.com JoAnn uses intuition, experience and a deep spiritual connection in her Reiki and IET sessions. Specializing in care for individuals with Cancer, Lyme disease and Back Pain. All Reiki levels taught.

TAROT Tarot Readings with Ava

Transformative Tarot, Westport, CT 203.454.9939 TransformativeTarot@Earthlink.net Expert phone or in-person readings with Tarot elucidate decisions, career, relationships, new possibilities, lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s path. Masterful, transformative. Shamanic energy healing available. Credit cards, Paypal.

WELLNESS PROMINDFUL, INC. Stamford, CT, USA ProMindful.org 203.274.6024

ProMindful is a non-prof it organization offering integrative practices including yoga, meditation, and holistic nutrition services. We work in collaboration with existing teachers and organizations to provide scholarships, lectures, classes, workshops, publications, recordings, and broadcasts.

You Are Invited

Free dinner lecture for Fibromyalgia & Chronic Pain sufferers

Thursday, April 21 at 7pm Madonia Restaurant, 1297 Long Ridge Road, Stamford

Dr.

Bender will be hosting a free dinner lecture introducing a highly effective, painless and non-surgical solution for Fibromyalgia, and Chronic Pain. Dr. Bender will be discussing the recently published research paper in the Journal Brain Injury, and upcoming research by the Trauma Research Foundation. In his research, he discusses a little known chiropractic procedure called Atlas Orthogonal which can give the promise of hope, and healing to chronic pain sufferers. Dr. Bender first discovered the amazing healing potential of the Atlas Orthogonal procedure as a patient while attending Chiropractic College in Atlanta. While in school, Dr. Bender suffered a serious injury. He tried every available traditional chiropractic procedure available, but still suffered with horrible neck, and lower back pain. After a year of constant, and severe pain, Dr. Bender met a doctor who changed his life. This doctor specialized in an advanced spinal correction procedure called AO. Immediately after the first

For reservations please call

203.967.8888

visit, Dr. Bender began to feel the amazing results under Atlas Orthogonal care. His body began to “heal itself” and the relentless pain that plagued him now quickly left his body. At that moment, Dr. Bender realized he had found his Life Purpose. Upon graduation, Dr. Bender trained as an intern with several of the most respected AO doctors in the country. Two years later, he moved to Connecticut, and in 1997, opened his own Atlas Orthogonal office in Stamford. Almost 14 years later, CT Spine and Health Center has become the busiest AO office in the northeast, attracting patients from all over the world. Dr. Bender’s office is a state of the art facility with all of the most advanced diagnostic equipment available necessary to perform the AO procedure. In the last 14 years, Dr. Bender has successfully treated hundreds of patients with Fibromyalgia, and Severe Chronic Pain. The AO procedure is completely painless, and with no side-effects. This free dinner and lecture is limited to only those people that are Fibromyalgia, and Chronic Pain sufferers. If you qualify, please call 203.967.8888 to reserve a seat, and learn more about how to regain your health, naturally. Seating is limited.

Connecticut Spine and Health Center Upper Cervical healthcare

Dr. Scott Bender

111 High Ridge Rd. Stamford, CT 06905 • 203.967.8888 eNaturalAwakenings.com www.ConnecticutSpineAndHealth.com

April 2011

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