Natural Awakenings Fairfield County May 2012 by Natural Awakenings Magazine

H E A L T H Y

L I V I N G

H E A L T H Y

P L A N E T

feel good • live simply • laugh more

FREE Special Edition

Women’s Wellness Pregnancy & Childbirth

5 Common Myths

NATURAL BEAUTY

Anti-Aging Skincare Turns Back the Clock

PEDAL

POWER Find the Bike Built for You

May 2012 | Fairfield County Edition | eNaturalAwakenings.com

The Natural Choice – The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center

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

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

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

WholeBodyDentistry.com 203-371-0300

5520 Park Ave., Trumbull / Fairfield town line at Exit 47 off Merritt Pkwy

Doesn’t it make sense to see the authority?

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

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

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

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

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

From left to right:

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

WholeBodyMed.com 203-371-8258

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

FREE CDs on our Whole-Body approach to Lyme Disease. Call now for details.

Office located on the Fairfield/Trumbull line

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

Fairfield County Edition

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May 2012

Listening and Caring Wouldn’t you prefer a doctor who makes time for both?

Naturopathic Medicine Services Offered:

General Family Medicine Acupuncture Dr. Susan Rzucidlo, ND

Facial Rejuvenation– “The Natural Facelift” Pediatrics

Diet & Nutritional Counseling

Anthem, BC/BS, Oxford, Aetna insurance accepted

Botanical Medicine

Conditions Treated: Allergies Arthritis Diabetes Heart Disease PMS Chronic Pain Any many others…

The Center for Naturopathic Medicine, Inc. 3335 Main Street, Stratford • (203) 377-1525

GET YOUR HEALTH BACK IN BALANCE...

naturally.

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. Call 203-324-4747 for an appointment with a Board Certified, Georgetown trained MD who is inclined to treat you... Naturally. 22 FIFTH STREET• SUITE 201 • STAMFORD, CT • 06905

Michael E. Doyle, Md • 203-324-4747 • GoToDrDoyle.com 4

Fairfield County Edition

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Cut the weight—

Without the Surgeon’s Scalpel! The Virtual Gastric Band Program, introduced in Connecticut by Hypnotist Diane Bahr-Groth, CHy, TFTdx. • Hypnotherapy technique that replicates the effects, results and benefits of traditional gastric bypass without the risky surgery. • Average weight loss with this technique is 7 lbs. the first week and 1-2 lbs. weekly * • The program has shown a 95% success rate.

* Client results may vary.

Call (203) 595-0110 for a FREE Consultation

Thought Field Therapy • Hypnosis • NLP

1177 High Ridge Rd, Stamford • MindBodyTransformation.com

Weight • Fear • Stress • Pain Smoking • Success • Sleep • Anger

Diane Bahr-Groth, CHy, TFTdx, is one of the first U.S.–trained hypnotists

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May 2012

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How a new wellness drink helps fight the ‘secret killer’… The secret killer – revealed! Scientists believe that inflammation – the lifesaver that helps you fight off germs, bacteria and viruses – is the secret killer. Left alone, it can ravage your arteries, chew up nerve cells in your brain, and lead to all kinds of age-related ailments.

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NATURAL HEALTHCARE ALTERNATIVES FOR YOUR FAMILY Family-Based Chiropractic Care Specializing in infants, children & pre- and post-natal women During pregnancy, research shows chiropractic helps:

Parents Ask Holistic Dentist, Dr. Mark Breiner of Whole

28 The Hormone

Balancing Act Natural Strategies for Feeling Better by Kathleen Barnes

32 Five Common Myths

about Pregnancy and Childbirth by Russell Turk, MD • Ear infections • Asthma & allergies • Scoliosis • Colic • Reflux • ADHD • Sports injuries • Torticollis

1 of only 10 chiropractic physicians in Connecticut with Board Certification in Pediatric and Maternity Care Certified in the Webster and Bagnell breach turning techniques. Leader of Fairfield County chapter of Holistic Moms Network and Founder of WOWTM (Women of Wellness)

ASSOCIATES IN FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC & NATURAL HEALTH CARE, P.C. 156 East Avenue, Norwalk

www.ctChiropractic.com

(203) 838-1555 Fairfield County Edition

20 Frequent Questions

CALL DR. RISA M. SLOVES

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.

Body Dentistry

• Eliminate back & pelvic pain • Sciatica • Eliminate neck, shoulder & arm pain • Headaches • Carpal tunnel syndrome • Turn babies who are in breech into a better position for delivery • Reduce the incidence of C-Section

For children, research shows chiropractic helps:

contents

natural awakenings

34 Anti-Aging Skincare

Turn Back the Clock with New Treatments and Breakthroughs by Linda Sechrist

37 Moving Towards the First

Age of Conscious Evolution by Barbara Marx Hubbard

38 Liquid Taste Treats

Try These Healthy Green Drinks by Jason Manheim

42 Mom-To-Mom Wisdom

Calming Advice for More

‘Good Days’ with Fretful Kids by Beth Davis

44 You Dirty Dog! 48 Pedaling Pleasure

Tips for the Grooming Impaired by Avery Mack

Find a Bike that Fits Your Style by Randy Kambic

24 11 newsbriefs 20 communtyspotlight 22 fairfieldgreen 24 healthbriefs 26 globalbriefs 34 healingways 37/50 wisewords 38 consciouseating

42 healthykids 44 naturalpet 46 greenliving 48 fitbody 52 calendar 57 classified 58 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. Deadline for News Briefs: the 5th of the month. CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com. 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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May 2012

letterfrompublisher Putting this May issue together has boosted my spirits to the max. So much going on locally and beyond, as is so very apparent on these pages. I’m grateful to be living in this vibrant community at this point in time. The natural health movement is alive and growing in Fairfield County. Speaking of natural health movements, it’s great to see the growing presence of people out riding bikes throughout Fairfield County. May is National Bike Month, calling attention to the advantages bicycling offers -- fun, fitness and the opportunity to make good, sound, eco-friendly sense. Good stuff. The League of American Bicyclists (LAB) is one of several organizations advocating on behalf of a “bicycle-friendly America.” (See BikeLeague.org for local actions.) Carolyn Aversano

May Day (May 1) is a long-standing celebration of spring, human fertility and the renewal of nature. How appropriate that we also celebrate “Mothers Day” on the second Sunday of this month. Each year with this seasonal reminder, I find myself reflecting on the nurturing women in my own life. In this issue we pay tribute to our maternal nature, focusing especially on good health and wellbeing of the female half of our human equation.

Design & Production Erica M. Mills

In “The Hormone Balancing Act” (page 28), writer Kathleen Barnes offers insight on the crucial role hormones play in our lives, highlighting natural strategies for being more hormone-wise. For moms-to-be, don’t miss “Five Common Myths about Pregnancy and Childbirth” by Greenwich OBGYN, Dr. Russell Turk (page 32). My reaction after reading it? I so wish I had read this article 10 years ago knowing about Myth #3 could have lead to a much smoother transition into this world for my son, Jonathan, but I’m glad that moms-to-be can benefit from this important information.

Sales & Marketing Carolyn Aversano Leana Cipolla

Natural Awakenings Fairfield County Phone: 203.885.4674 Fax: 203.516.2392 Carolyn@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

eNaturalAwakenings.com NAwebstore.com

Be sure to check out our local News Briefs this month and our wide ranging calendar of events. As always, this issue is over flowing with cutting edge news on health and the multitude ways we all can achieve it…naturally. Read on!

© 2012 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

Michael E. Doyle, MD is a Board Certified medical doctor whose practice combines Conventional and Alternative Medicine, including Nutrition and Bio-identical Hormones. Dr. Doyle practices at 22 Fifth Street in Stamford, CT. Contact him at 203.324.4747 or visit GoToDrDoyle.com. See ad pg 4.

IV Nutritional Therapy Aids Chronic Conditions

ichael E. Doyle, MD continues to expand his practice in order to provide his patients with the safest and most effective medical care. The latest news is that Dr. Doyle will be offering IV nutritional therapies, led by a new addition to his staff, Dawn Murphy, RN. Dawn has an extensive background in acute care hospital medicine, and has over six years experience in providing IV nutritional therapies for patients in Connecticut. Dawn Michael E. Doyle also offers expertise in helping patients with weight management and nutritional supplementation. The IV Myers Cocktail is an intravenous nutrient treatment that has been used for over 25 years by many integrative and nutritionally oriented physicians. According to Alan Gaby, MD, a White House expert witness on Complementary and Alternative medicine, the Myers Cocktail often helps patients with chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, acute asthma attacks, acute migraines, muscle spasm, seasonal allergic rhinitis and more. According to chronic fatigue expert Jacob Teitelbaum, MD, the Myers Cocktail is among the most important treatments available for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia. The experience of these experts was supported by a placebo-controlled Yale study of Fibromyalgia in 2009 where the “consistency and magnitude of treatment effects was greater in the IVMT (IV Myers Therapy) group” than in the placebo group.

Discounts, Deals at Garden-Shops.com

arden-Shops.com, locally owned and operated by Paul Toms of Ridgefield since 1998, is offering a monthly newsletter that includes a discount coupon, news about the Deal of the Day, online coupons, loyalty points, garden tips and an affiliate program for nonprofit organizations. Along with up-to-date information on protecting your landscape from deer browsing and deer tick control, the site’s Garden Center offers over 10,000 home and garden items, including flower bulbs for spring and fall planting. The site’s Outdoor Living Section features outdoor kitchens, gas grills, furniture and more; Garden Décor section includes fountains, statuary, wind chimes, weathervanes and decorative containers, and bird food and feeders are found in Feathered Friends. A planned upgrade will add over 250 product catalogs to the site. Garden-Shops.com’s onsite consultations include yard, garden and basement inspection for mold. Home delivery and plant installations are available throughout most of Connecticut. For an appointment, call 203.422.9751. Have a gardening question? Email Info@Garden-Shops.com. See ad pg 11.

Your Online Garden Center

10, 000 Items and Growing Register for our e-newsletter for garden tips and weekly online specials.

Call Today for Landscape Consultation

Save 5% on your first purchase with promo code NAM5. Locally owned and operated by Paul Toms, 203-422-9751 eNaturalAwakenings.com

May 2012

Chef Ely Offers Healthy Meals At Home

HAYFEVER?

SPRING

ALLERGIES? FOOD INTOLERANCES?

Non-invasive testing and therapies D r M a r v i n S c h w e i t z e r. c o m • 2 0 3 . 8 4 7. 2 7 8 8 1 We s t p o r t A v e n u e , N o r w a l k , C T 0 6 8 5 1

ur contemporary U.S. eating habits have replaced locally grown, home-cooked meals with processed, refined foods in which most of the nutrition is stripped away and chemEliana Grubel icals are added to enhance flavor and sweetness, and to make us addicted to it. Eliana Grubel, “Chef Ely”, brings us back to the table and to the old times, when people used to have plenty of time to prepare nutritious and delicious home-cooked meals every day. Using the best and freshest ingredients available on the day of the service, a personalized menu is prepared at the privacy of her clients’ homes and food is packaged in labeled containers with easy-to follow re-heating instructions and neatly stored in fridge and freezer. This service is perfect for those who are interested in better nutrition but are strapped for time in the kitchen - professionals with hectic schedules, new moms, busy couples and families. It is also a great help to people with disabilities or those recovering from illness or injuries. Chef Ely brings her expertise and a joy for gourmet cooking to people on restricted or special diets (weight loss, food allergies such as gluten, dairy or soy, diabetics, low-fat/low-salt, Mediterranean, vegetarian and others).

HVWS_ec_4.75x2.25_NaturalAwakenings_08_11_HVS Opn House_NWT BEE 02_07 8/14/11 6:05 PM

playinspires learning Mixed-age classes where childhood is profoundly respected and valued. Serving children 3 thru 61/2 years old 3 and 5 day options; aftercare available

40 Dodgingtown Rd., Newtown, CT 06470 203.364.1113 • www.waldorfct.org

Accredited by CAIS and AWSNA

NOW ENROLLING 203.364.1113 12

Fairfield County Edition

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Eliana Grubel is Board Certified Health Counselor and Premier Member of the United States Personal Chef Association, licensed and insured for all the services she offers. For more information call Chef Ely at 203.559.8946 or visit PersonalChefServiceByElyGrubel.com. See ad pg 16.

n order to spur new clients to take an active part in their recoveries, and to celebrate its third year, Ridgefield’s Move2Wellness has set a new, lower introductory price of $65 for massage, intuitive readings and Reiki. Move2Wellness is Rob Young’s passionate vision that came to life in 2009. He had long wanted to create a wellness center based on integrating effective existing therapies with new discoveries. The result was “a comfortable place for people to discover their own answers, where all those seeking true health will find guidance.” Rob describes Move2Wellness as “a leader in providing a welcoming space and encouraging support for complementary therapies. I believe that we in the forward-thinking field of complementary work should support each other. There is no such thing as completion, only collaboration,” adds Rob. Move2Wellness is located at 635 Danbury Road, Ridgefield. Call 203.403.2522 or visit Move2Welllness.com for more information. See ad pg 34.

A Two-Day Teaching Circle facilitated by Jim and Sue Graywolf Petruzzi of Santa Fe, New Mexico and Sedona, Arizona

June 2nd & 3rd Sticks and Stones Farm, Newtown, CT

JUNE 2

Sanctuaries of the Earth Mother present:

Native American & Indigenous Spiritual Teachings (8am-5pm)

JUNE 3

Move2Wellness Celebrates with New Intro Sessions

Plant and Animal Medicine (8am–5pm)

• Hoop of many colors - Drum sessions • Introduction to the Medicine Wheel • Spiritual teachings from the Red Road • Setting sacred space with drums, rattles & flutes • Indigenous Prophecies and Meanings • Journeying in spirit (Lakota) • Sacred Pipe - Chanupa - Gratitude and Prayer Ceremony (7-9:30 pm - FREE) • Hoop of many colors - Drum sessions • Healing with plant energy (Mayan) • Animal totems: meaning & choice • Shape-shifting – myth, reality & practice • Purpose & meaning of medicine bags • Closing circle: talking stick and share learnings from the workshop $90 day / $150 2-day includes refreshments and lunch

To register: 505-757-3429 (sotem.org/event-circles) SticksAndStonesFarm.com

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welry • fairy st r je • painting atues e v s an & sil gifts d s gi ng rian cu l st

e or

This revolutionary book can be purchased at local and online bookstores for $21.95 or direct from WholeBodyDentistry.com. Dr. Breiner’s dental practice is located at 5520 Park Avenue, on the Trumbull/Fairfield line. See ad pg 2.

A Unique Boutique with Heartfelt Purpose

r. Mark Breiner’s new book, WholeBody Dentistry®: A Complete Guide to Understanding the Impact of Dentistry on Total Health was recently selected as a finalist in Foreword Reviews Book of the Year Awards (BOYA) in the Health category. Whole-Body Dentistry represents a shift away from the traditional “mouth-only” orientation of dentistry, focused on oral hygiene, fillings, and extractions, etc. The Mark Breiner author describes how many health problems have their origin in the mouth. Books are chosen for the BOYA by librarians, booksellers and reviewers. Their decisions are based on editorial excellence, professional production, originality of the narrative, author credentials relative to the book, and the value the book adds to its genre. Clearly written and an important source of hard-to-find information, Whole-Body Dentistry (ISBN: 978-0-9678443-1-2) enables readers to make more-informed oral health care decisions. This 496 page health reference is available at bookstores, libraries, amazon.com and elsewhere online including WholeBodyDentistry.com.

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Local Dentist, Author Honored for Holistic Dentistry Book Cel

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Gift Cards Available Intuitive Readings Every Weekend Wide Selection of Native American Gifts

203-438-7146

452 Main St, Ridgefield

Touch Of Sedona

touchofsedonaridgefield.com Open Every Day Until 5:30

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May 2012

2012 LADIES GOLF CLASSIC Monday, June 18 $175 per golfer

sponsor a team, program ad, tee sign or donate a raffle/ auction prize! Tournament Format Best Two Balls of Foursome

Richter Park Golf Course Danbury, CT

Net & Gross Individual Prizes Schedule 7:45 am Registration & Breakfast 9:00 am Shotgun Start Lunch At turn Awards Banquet

Proceeds to benefit Ann’s Place, The Home of I CAN 501(c)(3) non-profit agency

Questions? 203-790-6568 see website for sponsorship opportunities & registration forms.

www.annsplace.org

Ann’s Place provides free comfort and support to people living with cancer and to their loved ones.

Got FunGal nails? We Can Eliminate Unsightly Nails with K-Laser • Quick in-office procedure

Pre-Laser

sagenix is a health system utilizing advanced nutritional technology to cleanse the body of impurities, while replenishing with high-level nutrients in a program incorporating calorie reduction, healthy diet and exercise. Free samples of Isagenix products will be available at Stamford’s The Primping Place on Saturday, May 12. The Isagenix series of products contain high quality, well-proportioned natural botanicals, herbs, antioxidants, digestive enzymes, minerals and proteins. These nutrients have a two-fold aim: to perform an internal cleanse on the cellular level and to deliver the nutrition the body requires. Hundreds of thousands of people around the world are said to have benefited from Isagenix since its debut in 2002, some with life altering results. Isagenix addresses two often-neglected factors leading to excess weight and disease—environmental toxicity and nutritional deficiency. The theory is that a toxic environment is the missing link when it comes to weight loss. Lisa Primps, of Stamford’s The Primping Place, is an Isagenix Consultant offering readers the chance to sample the Isagenix products, learn more, and have their questions answered. Join her at The Primping Place on Saturday, May 12, from 1 to 4 p.m. for a Tasting Event featuring Isagenix products. Spa Gift Certificates for treatments, organic cosmetics and skin care will also be specially priced and Mother’s Day gifts with purchase will be offered. The Primping Place is located at 1747 Summer Street, Stamford. Phone 203.325.9565 or visit ThePrimpingPlace.com. See ad pg 16.

Symbols and Signs Demystified by Local Author

• Virtually painless procedure with no downtime from your regular activities

• Alternative to prescription medications

Dr. Joel S. Segalman, FACFAS, FACFAOM

Dr. Elle Riazatti Chase Parkway Podiatry Group, LLC 714 Chase Parkway, Suite 4, Waterbury

203-755-0489 Newtown Foot Care Group, LLC 87 South Main Street, Newtown

203-270-6724 Fairfield County Edition

6 Months Later!

• Safe & effective treatment

Sample Isagenix Health, Weight Products

natural awakenings

ver wonder why you’re drawn to a certain object, number or color? Melanie Barnum has created a new workshop to answer just that! Melanie, author of the upcoming book, The Book of Psychic Symbols: Interpreting Intuitive Messages says it’s very common to recognize symbols and signs. Symbols are part of a psychic language we can use to interpret messages we receive intuitively. Melanie Barnum “Often, we observe symbols without understanding what they really mean to us,” she says. “Dragonflies, for example, are noticed by many people as mystical.” However, Melanie believes it’s personal. We are drawn to specific symbols because they represent something to us on a deeper level. Melanie’s newest workshop,“Deciphering Your Personal Symbols” was created to help explore and interpret the

symbols specific to each person as an individual, including why the symbol stands out. “When we explore what we are curious about we expand our awareness into our spirit, and open our soul to a more purpose driven life.” Deciphering this symbolic language can be as challenging and as fun as you want it to be. “Everyone can learn the meaning to symbols; the joy comes upon discovering why they are significant to you!” Melanie Barnum is an Intuitive Counselor, Certified Hypnotist, Coach, Author, Teacher & Workshop Presenter. She is available for book signings, workshops, individual & group sessions, and is based in Ridgefield. Visit MelanieBarnum.com for more information and to order her book, The Book of Psychic Symbols: Interpreting Intuitive Messages (Llewellyn Worldwide Publishing), scheduled for June release, or call 203.451.0914.

Ridley-Lowell Teams Up with Whalers

n order to close the gap between theory and practice, and to offer an unprecedented quality of hands-on instruction to its students, RidleyLowell Business & Technical Institute in Danbury has formed a collaborative Sports Massage Program with the Danbury Whalers Hockey Team. The program had a logical evolution as Steve Tullino, who spearheaded the unique collaboration, considered a win-win situation from both educational and athletic perspectives, is the official massage therapist for the Whalers and a Ridley-Lowell instructor, and Ridley’s director, Lauren Weymouth, is a triathlon athlete. Because this program takes place in both classroom and sports arena, the level of enthusiasm is high for both student and athlete. Students who find textbook learning tedious can now correlate the contents of a chart to its location on the human body, while a professional athlete’s superior muscle definition becomes a learning tool when it comes to identifying muscles and their landmark characteristics. Sessions at the Whalers’ rink give students an opportunity to perform in an exciting environment as they acquire palpatory skills in the best of both worlds. Ridley-Lowell is an accredited institution offering skilled training in the following fields: Massage Therapy, Medical Assisting, Medical Administration Assisting, and Medical Billing and Coding. Day and evening classes, financial aid (if eligible), and free placement assistance are available. Ridley-Lowell is located at 44 Shelter Rock Road, Danbury. Call 203.797.0551 or visit Ridley.edu for more information. See ad pg 43.

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

Master’s in Nutrition Online

• Career changers can study to be a Nutritionist in less than two years • Healthcare providers can increase revenue possibilities by offering expanded wellness services to patients • Enjoy the convenience of learning online from your home or office, 24/7

• Curriculum focuses on the role of human nutrition as a preventative and complementary therapy from a functional medicine perspective • Graduates are eligible to sit for the Certified Clinical Nutritionists (CCN) and the Diplomate of the American Clinical Board of Nutrition (DACBN) exams

To learn more, call 1.800.EXCEL.UB or visit www.bridgeport.edu

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UBRIRE0684_Natural_Awakenings Ad.indd 1

May 2012

11/17/11 11:05 AM

Celebrating Twenty Years of Honoring Birds of Prey

Chef Ely Grübel

Qualified Food Operator (ServSafe) Board Certified Health Counselor

Fitting your budget and dietary requirements • menu planning • freezing • shopping • clean up • cooking

Premier Member, United States Personal Chef Association, Licensed - Insured

203 559 8946 • PersonalChefServiceByElyGrubel.com

203.966.5655 - SynergySalonNC.com 53 East Ave. New Canaan, CT

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

Fo Ladier s!

Aliza Wolfe (203) 554-5975

Ask Me How to Lose 9 Pounds in 9 Days! Lisa Primps Isagenix Consultant 203-325-9565 FREE Tasting May 12th 1-4 pm - Call to reserve your spot!

ThePrimpingPlace.com

Fairfield County Edition

Admission to the day is $15 for adults and $5 for seniors and children under 12. Family passes are available for $35 and children 2 and under enter for free. All proceeds benefit Green Chimneys, a non-profit organization. For more information call 845.279.2995, ext. 227 or visit GreenChimneys.org. Green Chimneys is located at 400 Doansburg Road in Brewster, NY. See ad pg 23.

2012 Pilates Conference Welcomes Instructors and Enthusiasts

Because Your Computer Wants You To Succeed!

n Sunday, June 3, Green Chimneys in Brewster, New York celebrates the twentieth anniversary of Birds of Prey Day. The event honors children, the environment and magnificent birds of prey from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and features more than 100 birds on display with falconers from across New York and Connecticut. Top wildlife and environmental experts will join special celebrity guests to honor 20 years of Green Chimneys’ wildlife conservation and birds of distinction. Birds of Prey Day offers families a chance to and get “up close and personal” with majestic eagles, hawks, owls and falcons. Highlights of the day will include free-flying raptors, live animal demonstrations and the ceremonial release of a rehabilitated bird. Visitors can also tour the Green Chimneys Farm & Wildlife Center and enjoy family activities for all ages.

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he Art of Control Studio in Purchase is pleased to announce the second annual Pilates Conference from May 31 through June 3. The conference will be held at Purchase College and is open to Pilates instructors and enthusiasts at all levels of ability and interest. “We welcome both those who have opened their own successful studios and those who simply desire to learn more about Pilates,” says Art of Control director Simona Cipriani. “This conference is a window into the world of Pilates, offering workshops, seminars and lectures to demonstrate skills and present knowledge about human anatomy and the most effective methods to control, stretch and strengthen the body.” Visitors to the 2012 conference will have the chance to work with Cipriani and other renowned Pilates teachers, including Kevin Bowen, Peter Fiasca, Brett Howard, Kathi Ross-Nash, Brooke Siler, Alycea Ungaro, Dorothee VandeWalle, MeJo Wiggin, and Mari Winsor. All classes will be available to a wide range of skill levels. The pre-conference series that begins May 31 includes Anatomy in Clay® classes and a Cadaver Lab presented by Dr.

Joseph Muscolino, a professor and author of several publications on anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology. Visit ArtOfControl. com/conference_2012.html to register for these special classes, learn about conference lodging and meal plan options, and watch videos from the 2011 conference. Vi s i t A r t O f C o n t r o l . c o m o r c a l l 914.251.7842. See ad pg 13.

Latest Lyme News at West Conn

ationally recognized experts Joseph Burrascano, MD and Eva Sapi, PhD, will present the latest updates in the fields of Lyme Disease treatment, prevention, and supportive theraJoseph pies at a free LymeBurrascano focused health fair at West Conn on Tuesday evening, May 22. Dr. Burrascano, a specialist with over 25 years of experience in the diagnosis and treatment of Lyme and its associated complex infectious diseases and chronic illnesses, is actively involved in the development of in vitro culturing methods of symbiotic Borrelia, a landmark achievement providing a new diagnostic standard. He has also created a Lyme patients’ registry. Dr. Sapi directs the University of New Haven’s Lyme Disease Research Program. Her team has identified an alarming increase in deer tick co-infection rates, and is studying Borrelia’s ability to hide from the immune system and from therapies, protecting itself with a biofilm rendering it resistant to antibiotics. Her group’s goal: to identify novel antibacterial agents that would be effective in killing all Borelia forms. This free community event will be held in the West Conn Westside Campus Student Center Ballroom, 43 Lake Avenue Extension, Danbury. The Lyme-focused Health Fair begins at 6 p.m. Speaker presentations will run from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. For further information, email RLDTF@comcast.net. For directions, go to WCSU.Edu/CampusTour/Directions.asp.

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May 2012

Gastric Reflux and Colic Respond Favorably to Pediatric Chiropractic Care

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visit to Dr. Risa Sloves and Dr. Mark Joachim’s office, Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care, P.C. in Norwalk, CT often looks more like a playgroup for pre- and post- natal moms and their children than a typical chiropractic office. “I can’t believe how many babies are here” is often a comment heard by some of the other adults and grandparents who are also patients at their office. That is because Dr. Sloves is 1 of 10 Chiropractic Physicians in CT who is Board Certified in Maternity and Pediatric Care and Dr. Joachim is the only physician in CT with Advanced Certification in the BioSET Allergy Elimination Technique. Together, the husband and wife team are going Risa Sloves into their 23rd year of practice and have helped thousands of families obtain more optimal health with natural and noninvasive approaches. Fortunately, one pediatric condition now seemingly at epidemic proportions that they have been able to help considerably is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Mothers often bring their babies into the doctors with a medical diagnosis of GERD with complaints including frequent and painful excessive gas, frequent vomiting/spitting up, excessive crying, interrupted sleep and difficulty breastfeeding. Many babies have already been prescribed medications such as Prevacid, Prilosec or Zantac by their MDs to help symptoms. Mark Joachim Recent research has shown that chiropractic care is extremely effective in helping these babies. In fact, one study in the Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health (May 9, 2009) documented the cases of 16 infants who were suffering with colic or acid reflux and got complete resolution of their symptoms with chiropractic care. Upon examination, upper cervical (neck) subluxations were determined to be present in all 16 cases, more than half of which was due to birth trauma. Dr. Sloves points out that positioning of a baby in-utero, births with C-Section or vacuum extraction, or even uncomplicated natural births can be traumatic for babies and can cause subluxations. These subluxations can irritate and compress the spinal cord and nerve structures in the neck or upper back that control the proper functioning of the gastro-intestinal tract. Correcting these misalignments with gentle chiropractic adjustments appears to eliminate the GERD and colic. “In addition, addressing the possibility of food allergies and sensitivities can also help tremendously”, states Dr. Joachim. “Many infants, whether breastfed or bottle fed with formula, are sensitive to what they are eating. Common sensitivities are dairy and soy which may be in formula, or even the breastfeeding mother may be eating these and other common foods such as wheat, egg, nuts, etc. that the infant is unable to tolerate. With BioSET, I am able to determine in a completely non-invasive manner with computerized testing, those foods causing the sensitivity and desensitize their system to eliminate the food allergy and improve digestive function. All of this is done painlessly without needles, medication or eliminating foods from the diet.” For additional information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sloves and/or Dr. Joachim call 203.838.1555 or visit ctchiropractic.com. See ad pg 8.

Have news to share? Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com to submit News Briefs. Deadline: May 5 18

Fairfield County Edition

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Sending Blessings Lori Portka A former counselor and educator, fine artist Lori Portka delights in the favorite things that inspire her: nature, traveling, animals, yoga and friends. She lets her art pour out in boldly rendered images that burst from each canvas via saturated pastels, paints, chalks and inks to forge a visceral connection between artist and viewer. “I make artwork that is a reflection of gratitude and joy in the world,” says Portka, whose expressive works fulfill her mission of spreading happiness through art. A personal loss led Portka to begin painting again at 30-something for the first time since the tenth grade, a process she says has opened her heart even more deeply. Inspired by Australian photographer and filmmaker Hailey Bartholomew’s documentary, 365 Grateful, about living on the sunny side of life, Portka embarked upon her own project, A Hundred Thank-Yous, creating and giving away 100 paintings to 100 people that have touched her life, she says, “in a beautiful way.” “I feel like I am on the right path, doing what I am supposed to do,” she explains. “Art feels like home to me.” View the artist’s portfolio and follow her blog at LoriPortka.com.

WHERE YOU DELIVER YOUR BABY CAN MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE. THESE WOMEN CHOSE STAMFORD HOSPITAL.

For some, it’s the security of knowing that we provide Fairfield County’s only 24/7 high-risk OB coverage with three full-time specialists, board-certified in maternal-fetal medicine. For others, it’s the availability of our Level III NICU should the need arise. Or our comprehensive education and on-going support programs for parents and siblings. And, of course, there are our beautifully appointed private labor/delivery rooms. Whatever the reason, when you visit the Whittingham Pavilion at Stamford Hospital, you’ll discover caring doctors and nurses committed to making your birth experience safe, comfortable and rewarding.

Join the conversation and connect with these Moms as they share their experiences of motherhood.

Visit mommyloguesCT.com

Affiliate Columbia University-College of Physicians & Surgeons Member New York-Presbyterian Healthcare System A Planetree Hospital

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May 2012

communityspotlight Frequent Questions Parents Ask Holistic Dentist,

Dr. Mark Breiner of Whole-Body Dentistry

rom the moment your baby’s first teeth erupt, they need to be cared for. At every stage of a child’s growth, good oral hygiene can and should be encouraged. However, given that children’s physical systems are more vital and reactive than those of adults, you need to be especially prudent about the dental decisions you make for them. The dental choices that you make for your child can have an impact for years to come. Dr. Mark Breiner has been seeing both children and their parents in his holistic dental practice for over 30 years. In his new book, Whole-Body Dentistry®: A Complete Guide to Understanding the Impact of Dentistry on Total Health, he stresses the importance of using the safest possible treatment approaches for both children and adults. Increasing numbers of parents are seeking holistic approaches for their children’s dental care. Below, Dr. Breiner responds to a number of questions that parents have repeatedly asked him.

My child’s first teeth are coming in decayed…why? When a baby falls asleep at the mother’s breast or with a bottle still in his or her mouth, the emerging baby teeth are being continuously bathed in the milk sugar and thus lead to decay. It has also been my observation that decay occurs more frequently in babies whose mother is a vegetarian and is breast20

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feeding. Last but not least, some children are just more susceptible to tooth decay; in such cases homeopathic treatment, which addresses the whole system, can be of significant benefit.

Since my child’s baby teeth are going to fall out, do I even have to be concerned about treating decay? Yes, the decay can progress to the point of producing a toothache and an abscess, conditions which may necessitate the extraction of a tooth. Under ideal circumstances your child’s front teeth will be in place until six to seven years of age, and these teeth are very important for proper speech development. The baby molars are normally retained until ten to thirteen years of age. If these are lost prematurely, the permanent molars will come in and move forward, blocking the space needed for the permanent teeth. This situation will necessitate orthodontics.

My child’s permanent front teeth are coming in with white spots. Why is this happening? White spots on permanent teeth are almost always the result of ingesting too much fluoride. Studies have shown that 30-40% of children today have this problem. These spots form because fluoride interferes with collagen production. Fluoride can have additional negative systemic ramifications.

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At what age should I start bringing my child to the dentist? A good time to bring your child to the dentist’s office is at three years of age. Your child can see the hygienist for tooth polishing; he or she may also ride in the chair and squirt the water, to make it a fun experience. Of course, if you suspect any problems prior to that time, you should immediately bring your child to the dentist.

How do I care for my toddler’s teeth? When the teeth first come in (usually at 6 to 9 months of age) wiping the teeth with a washcloth or gauze pad is sufficient. As the child gets older and permits it, use a small toothbrush with soft bristles and dental floss.

The dentist said my child will need braces. Should I wait until all the permanent teeth are in place? No. Often there is not enough room for permanent teeth or there is a structural problem in the way the lower jaw meets the upper jaw. It is best to begin to address these situations at an early age, when the first permanent molars have erupted. Consult with an orthodontist and let the orthodontist determine the ideal time to start treatment; that time is almost always before all the permanent teeth are in.

My child is highly allergic. Do I have to be concerned about the materials used in orthodontics? Yes. Often the orthodontic metals are nickel-based. Ten percent of the population is reactive to nickel. Today there are alternatives to using nickel. If your child has experienced more colds or a decline in health while wearing braces, he or she may be reactive to the dental materials used.

If your child has experienced more colds or a decline in health while wearing braces, he or she may be reactive to the dental materials used. My child has a cavity, should I be concerned about materials being used to restore the teeth? Yes. Never let a dentist place a “silver” filling in your child’s teeth. These fillings are half mercury, and mercury is dangerous. Ask your dentist to use a tooth-colored composite filling.

My dentist wants to take X-rays of my child’s teeth, is this a good idea? No one likes to have X-rays taken. As with everything in dentistry, one must evaluate the benefits and risks. The main reason for X-rays in young children is to check for decay between the teeth. Often transillumination with a bright light will reveal decay between the baby teeth and X-rays can be avoided. If one suspects decay, it is bet-

ter to take an X-ray than to end up with a toothache. When all the permanent teeth are in, transillumination does not work well on the back teeth; for those, X-rays are a good idea. In trying to limit radiation exposure in adults and youngsters, I base the frequency of taking X-rays upon the child’s previous history of decay. Digital X-rays keep radiation to a minimum.

My dentist wants to apply sealants to my child’s teeth, is this necessary? Because deep grooves in the molar teeth very often become decayed, filling these grooves will prevent this from happening. A dental sealant is a liquid composite that flows into the grooves and is then hardened with a high intensity light. Prior to applying a sealant, it is important to check for decay in the

2012 Pilates

grooves. There are electronic dental instruments that detect decay and should be used prior to placing the sealant. I think it is unnecessary to seal teeth that do not have deep grooves. I prefer placing tiny composite fillings in deep grooves, as sealants are often lost and begin to leak with time. These problems rarely occur when tiny composite restorations are used. When alternative holistic dental approaches are combined with solid traditional dentistry, the outcome is one that optimizes each patient’s health and wellbeing. It is a win-win formula! Dr. Breiner practices dentistry in Trumbull, CT. He is a Fellow of The International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology, and the Academy of General Dentistry, a Diplomate of the College of Dentistry, American Association of Integrative Medicine, and author of Whole-Body Dentistry®. Visit WholeBodyDentistry.com for information/free on-line newsletter. See ad pg 2.

Conference in the NYC Area

Join us! Featuring: Kevin Bowen Simona Cipriani Peter Fiasca Kathi Ross-Nash Brooke Siler Mari Winsor and more.....

Pre-Conference May 31, 2012 Main Conference: June 1 - June 3, 2012 The Art of Control® located at Purchase College Purchase NY Phone 914- 251-7842

for Pilates teachers, students, and friends open to all levels of ability and interest

SPECIAL PROMOTION 50% off For anyone attending all or part of the conference, we are offering 50% off all Mat classes for the month of June!

don’t miss this opportunity... register now...

www.artofcontrol.com The Art of Control® Teacher Certification Programs Group Classes & Private Sessions Pilates, Feldenkrais, Massage Therapy and more...

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May 2012

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

Beauty Detox Put Your Best Face Forward Safely

he Environmental Working Group (EWG) estimates that the average woman uses at least 12 personal care products—including soaps, shampoos, cosmetics and lotions—every day, many of which contain potentially toxic ingredients. The David Suzuki Foundation states, “U.S. researchers report that one in eight of the 82,000 ingredients used in personal care products are carcinogens, pesticides, reproductive toxins or hormone disruptors.” Stacy Malkan, of the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, advises, “Beware of bogus claims like ‘certified hypoallergenic’, meaningless marketing terms like ‘clean and simple’, and companies that do not list the product ingredients on their website.” One of the most troublesome additives is paraben, a chemical preservative found in numerous products that mimics estrogen and may disrupt normal hormone function. Others include diethanolamine (DEA) and triethanolamine (TEA), hormone disrupters that can form cancer-causing nitrates and are common ingredients of shampoos, shaving creams and body washes.

Various artificial fragrances are among the top five allergens around the world, and can also contain neurotoxins. Triclosan and triclocarban, antimicrobial pesticides used in liquid and solid soaps, are toxic to the aquatic environment and disrupt thyroid function and reproductive hormones. Sodium lauryl and laureth sulfate—detergents common in facial cleansers, shampoos and shower gels—may be contaminated with carcinogens and neurotoxins and can irritate the skin, eyes and respiratory tract. The EWG also suggests avoiding anti-aging creams with lactic, glycolic, AHA and BHA acids; hair dyes that contain ammonia, peroxide, p-phenylenediamine or diaminobenzene, and all dark, permanent hair dyes; nail polish and removers with formaldehyde; and skin lighteners containing hydroquinine. Forego sunscreen sprays and beware of oxybenzone; instead, use products containing at least 7 percent zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Children’s products are not immune, either. Steer clear of play makeup, including lipstick, nail polish and perfume; diaper cream that contains boric acid or sodium borate; baby wipes with Bronopol; and fluoridated toothpaste for youngsters under 2. The EWG’s Skin Deep database (ewg.org/skindeep) provides easy-to-navigate safety ratings for many personal care products and ingredients. Their Quick Tips for Safer Cosmetics wallet guide informs shoppers how to read personal care product labels and make smart choices. Sources: ewg.org; Environment.NationalGeographic.com; SafeCosmetics.org

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Breathe Easier Great Days for Clean Air

or nearly 100 years, discharges from two of Edison International’s coal plants have polluted the air over the city of Chicago, exposing area families to dangerous levels of chemicals while adding to the Earth’s greenhouse gases. But the people fought back and won, because the city has quit using coal. For more than 10 years, Chicago residents have been demanding their right to clean air and a safe climate. Now, the Fisk coal plant, in Pilsen, and the Crawford operation, in Little Village, will shut down in 2012 and 2014, respectively. Clean air activists in Ohio and Pennsylvania recently claimed similar victories. Utility provider GenOn will close seven coal plants in the two states, including one in Portland, Pennsylvania, which has been deemed responsible for more than 500 asthma attacks and 54 heart attacks. “These victories are not only for the people of Chicago, Ohio and Pennsylvania, but for local activists all over the country that are working to shut down dirty coal plants in their communities,” says Kelly Mitchell, of Greenpeace, in celebrating the announcement.

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healthbriefs

Eating Greens Can Change Genes

n international team of scientists led by researchers at McMaster and McGill universities, in Canada, were surprised to find that consuming generous amounts of fruit and raw vegetables modified a gene designated 9p21, the strongest marker for heart disease. In one of the largest gene-diet interaction studies ever conducted related to cardiovascular disease, the researchers analyzed more than 27,000 individuals from five ethnicities—Latin American, European, Chinese, South Asian and Arab—and the effect their diets had on the target gene. They discovered that men and women with the high-risk genotype that consumed a healthy diet with plenty of raw vegetables and fruits had a risk of heart attack similar to individuals carrying the low-risk genotype. “We know that 9p21 genetic variants increase the risk of heart disease for those that carry it,” says Genetic Epidemiologist Jamie Engert, joint principal investigator of the study, “but it was a surprise to find that a healthy diet could significantly weaken its effect.” Source: PLoS Medicine

CALCIUM SUPPLEMENTS INCREASE HEART RISK

alcium supplements, usually taken to improve bone health, may increase the risk of heart attack by as much as 30 percent, according to the findings of the Women’s Health Initiative, a 15-year research project established by the National Institutes of Health to address cardiovascular disease, cancer and osteoporosis. “If you take calcium supplements, you’ll build up excess calcium in your system that, coupled with mineral deficiencies and imbalances, can cause plaque in arteries, kidney stones, gallstones and more,” says Dr. Robert Thompson, co-author with Kathleen Barnes of The Calcium Lie: What Your Doctor Doesn’t Know Could Kill You. Instead, he recommends taking a trace mineral supplement, preferably in ionic form, whose electrical charge helps bond minerals with water, making the nutrients more easily absorbed. Such a supplement provides all needed minerals, including calcium, in the correct balance.

ARC Sacred Center

MEMORY AND THE PILL

esearchers from the University of California, Irvine (UCI) report that while birth control pills don’t damage memory, they can alter it. Women that were not taking birth control pills were better at remembering details than their peers on the pill. The difference makes sense, says UCI graduate researcher Shawn Nielsen, because contraceptives suppress sex hormones such as estrogen and progesterone to prevent pregnancy. These hormones were previously linked to women’s strong left-brain memory by a UCI research group led by Ph.D. Neurobiologist Larry Cahill.

NICOTINE: MOTHERS JUST SAY NO

xpectant moms using nicotine patches and gum to help kick a smoking habit are putting their unborn babies at risk, say researchers at the Loma Linda University School of Medicine, in California. In a study published in the British Journal of Pharmacology, they note that the fetus absorbs the addictive substance, which can damage the baby’s blood vessels and may lead to high blood pressure and heart problems later in life.

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a course in miracles study groups chants for spirit-chants for peace community silent meditation Women’s sacred circle spiritual Junkie movie night mommy & me class forming (age 1-3)

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sound offering for grounding & healing men's spirituality Workshop eat right, think right, live right comedy fundraising event

For additional information and a full list of events please visit our website or contact us

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ACUPUNCTURE CHEESE IS BETTER THAN BUTTER espite traditional cautions against eating animal fats to keep cholesterol in COOLS HOT FLASHES

check, Danish researchers have found that eating hard cheese is better for the arteries than consuming the equivalent number of calories in butter. According to their study, published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, when hard cheese accounted for 13 percent of participants’ daily calories, their LDL (bad cholesterol) did not increase. When the same individuals switched to consuming more butter, their LDL levels rose. The researchers were unsure what caused the results, but noted that cheese contains a lot of calcium, which can increase the amount of fat excreted by the digestive tract.

SOUR NEWS ABOUT SWEET DRINKS

small, yet intriguing study published in Acupuncture in Medicine found that traditional Chinese acupuncture curbed the severity of hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms. Fiftythree middle-aged, postmenopausal women were divided into two groups; one received such treatments twice weekly for 10 weeks, while the other experienced “sham” acupuncture with blunt needles that did not penetrate the skin. In both groups, levels of estrogen and other hormones were measured before the study began and before and after the last session. Menopausal symptoms—hot flashes, vaginal dryness, urinary tract infections and mood swings—were also measured before and after the treatments, using a fivepoint menopause rating scale (MRS) in order to assess their severity. At the end of the study, the women receiving Chinese acupuncture scored significantly lower on the MRS scale, with hot flashes seeing the sharpest decrease. The researchers explain that acupuncture boosts production of endorphins, which may stabilize the temperature control system of the body. They say that more investigation is needed because the study was small, but note that its results seem promising, suggesting that traditional Chinese acupuncture could be an alternative for women unable or unwilling to use hormone replacement therapy to relieve menopausal symptoms.

rinking sodas and other sugar-sweetened beverages may increase a woman’s risk of heart disease and diabetes, according to research presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2011. Middle-aged and older women that drank two or more such drinks per day were nearly four times as likely to develop high triglycerides and significantly more likely to develop impaired fasting glucose levels, plus increase their waist size. The study also noted that risk factors for heart disease and stroke developed even when the women didn’t gain weight.

Lose Weight Without Diet, Drugs or Exercise “Acu-Thin™ was/is a turning point in my life? I’ve lost 15 lbs so far – and it was easy. No more craving snacks between meals and I literally eat half of what I used to eat at mealtimes. I feel so much better, and the Acu-Thin™ program makes a significant difference in my success.” - Patrice B. (note: Patrice B. eventually lost 50 lbs!) BEFORE

The ACU-THIN program is a system of weight loss based on the principle of Auriculotherapy (ear acupuncture) used to decrease the desire for food. It is done with needles or done without needles. This program has been shown to be effective for several years in our office without increasing exercise or involving extreme changes in diet. Results are usually noticed quickly and loss of appetite can be immediate.

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May 2012

Achieve New Levels of Freedom from stress, trauma, old habits, the past...

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

Tiny Baubles

Plastic Pollution Flows from Washday to the Sea A study published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology warns that microscopic plastic debris from washing clothes made of synthetic materials like polyester, acrylic and nylon is accumulating in the marine environment and could be entering the food chain. Concentrations were greatest near coastal urban areas. Up to 1,900 tiny fibers per garment were released with each wash during the study. Earlier research has shown that plastic particles smaller than one millimeter comprise 80 percent of environmental plastic and are being eaten by animals and getting into the food chain. Mark Browne, Ph.D., an ecologist based at the University of California, Santa Barbara, and a member of the National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis, advises, “Once the plastics had been eaten, they transferred from the animals’ stomachs to their circulation system and actually accumulated in their cells.” The team took samples from 18 beaches around the globe, including sites in Australia, Britain, India, Japan, Oman, the Philippines, Portugal, Singapore, South Africa and the United States. They found no sample that did not contain pieces of the microplastic.

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203-938-3690 KindredSpiritsCenter.com 26

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The British government is setting up a Natural Capital Committee that will describe the country’s wealth in terms of the quality of its air, water, wildlife and other natural resources. Environment Secretary Caroline Spelman intends to propose that all countries begin “green accounting” to audit the state of their rivers, forests and other landscapes. The United Nations Rio+20 Conference in Brazil this June is expected to unite the participating nations in protecting the world’s environment. Sustainable development goals under consideration include ensuring that all agriculture is sustainable, protecting oceans, setting up an international court on environmental crime, and appointing an ombudsperson to speak on behalf of future generations. The summit, to be attended by 190 nations, will also look at cutting subsidies for fossil fuels and low carbon energy for all. Spelman observes that businesses in Great Britain are already measuring the impact they are having on the environment. She states, “In the same way, governments can start to take account of damage to the environment in order to sustain resources like fresh water for fisheries, forests for clean air and green spaces for tourism. We want our own government to take account of natural capital and our statisticians to calculate the state of the nation more widely.”

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Oldie Goldies

Honoring Eldersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Contributions to Community May spotlights Older Americans Month and the important role they play in sharing their experience, wisdom and understanding, and passing it all on to younger generations in meaningful ways. Youth that have significant relationships with a grandparent or another elder, for example, report that these relationships helped shape their values, goals and life choices, and gave them a sense of identity and roots. Many communities have increased their efforts to provide opportunities for older adults, many that remain physically and socially active through their 80s and beyond. Trends show that people over age 60 account for a growing percentage of participants in community service positions, faith-based organizations, online social networking groups, and arts and recreational activities. Lifelong participation in social, creative and physical activities has proven health benefits, including retention of mobility, increased muscle mass and improved cognitive abilities. The interactions of seniors with family, friends and neighbors across generations work to enrich the lives of all.

FLEXIBLE WORK PLACES BOOST WELL-BEING

Sources: Administration on Aging (aoa.gov) and ElderCare.gov

Mamma Mia

A New Demography for American Motherhood The state of motherhood in the United States has shifted strikingly in the past two decades, according to a Pew Research Center survey. Compared with mothers of newborns in 1990, todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mothers are older, better educated and less likely to be either white or married. The ideal number of children for a family is still two, as it has been since the 1970s. Pew projects that 82 percent of U.S. population growth through 2050 will be from immigrants that arrived after 2005 and their descendants. Sources: PewForum.org, National Center for Health Statistics, U.S. Census Bureau

etter sleep and feelings of health are among the benefits of a flexible workplace, according to a new study by University of Minnesota sociology professors that followed 608 office employees in a collaborating company. The initiation of a performance-focused work environment that redirected the focus of employees and managers towards measurable results and away from when and where work was completed, yielded positive markers. Employees that were allowed to routinely change when and where they worked, based upon their individual needs and job responsibilities, experienced improved sleep quality, higher energy levels, better self-reported health and a sense of personal mastery. Source: Journal of Health and Social Behavior

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May 2012

The Hormone Balancing Act Natural Strategies for Feeling Better by Kathleen Barnes

ormones rule our lives; it’s a simple fact of biochemistry. In their role as the body’s chemical messengers, hormones affect every human biological system. Without them, nothing works correctly. Women’s hormonal systems are as complex as men’s, although vastly different. They govern reproduction, plus every aspect of health—including metabolizing food, proper immune function, physical and emotional responses to stress and the aging of cells.

Teens and Early 20s

Puberty and the early reproductive years should be the physical peak of a young woman’s life; when she is physically active and full of energy and youthful health. It’s also the time when breasts develop, hips widen, pubic hair appears, menstruation begins, and she

becomes capable of pregnancy. The good news is that several studies by the National Cancer Institute and the University of California, Los Angeles, have shown that regular exercise undertaken at this age results in lower estrogen levels throughout a woman’s life, greatly reducing her risk of breast cancer and other hormonal cancers. Yet, C.W. Randolph, Jr., a leading bioidentical hormone physician and co-author of From Hormone Hell to Hormone Well, reports that the ideal hormonal balance is routinely upset today. Culprits are obesity among young American women and the everyday presence of toxic estrogenic chemicals in today’s dairy products and meat, personal care products, plastics, food containers, pesticides and herbicides, as well as car exhaust. “These compounds often have

Major Female Hormones d Estrogen is produced by the ovaries, adrenal glands and in several other parts of the female body. It is responsible for physical maturation, including development of breasts, regulation of the menstrual cycle and preparing the uterus to receive a fertilized embryo. d Progesterone prepares the uterus for pregnancy, maintains pregnancy and balances estrogen during cyclical fluctuations. 28

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d Luteinizing hormone governs the ovaries’ production of estrogen and progesterone. d Follicle-stimulating hormone works in synergy with the luteinizing hormone to control the menstrual cycle and ovarian egg production. d Testosterone is present in women, although in far lower levels than in men. It serves as a component of healthy sexual desire and in maintenance of healthy bones and muscles.

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chemical structure similar to estrogen and can act like estrogen when introduced into the body,” Randolph explains. “Over time, these substances can increase estrogen in the body, potentially causing problems.” Categorized as xenoestrogens, these hormone disruptors can cause rapid growth in breast tissue and have been blamed for the appearance of breast tissue and even milk production in girls as young as 18 months and the early onset of puberty, particularly among African-American girls. They are also suspected in the rising incidence of breast cancer in younger women today.

Reproductive Years

Women in their reproductive years often experience extreme stress in struggling to balance family, work, relationships and a need for personal growth, along with economic challenges. Women’s health expert Dr. Christiane Northrup, author of The Wisdom of Menopause, blames the stress of modern lifestyles for hormone disruptions in women in their childbearing years. “The stress hormones cortisol and epinephrine can have

Ways to Avoid Manmade Estrogens d Choose organic milk and dairy products. d Eat organic meats and wild-caught fish. d Avoid canned foods and plastic water and soda bottles. d Do not use lawn or garden chemical pesticides or herbicides. d Shed outdoor shoes before entering the house. d Avoid furniture made from medium-density fiberboard (MDF) and synthetic carpeting; these materials outgas toxic chemicals. d Use natural household-cleaning products, including baking soda and vinegar. d Choose natural personal care products, including shampoos, lotions and cosmetics.

problems of the reproductive years often go away when you get your blood sugar balanced, but—here’s the rub— you won’t get it rebalanced unless you are addressing the very real stressors in your life.” Due to the presence of xenoestrogens and Americans’ general fondness for processed comfort foods, women in their childbearing years are also increasingly afflicted by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a condition characterized by overproduction of testosterone and other male hormones. Insulite Laboratories, in Louisville, Colorado, reports that infertility and early onset Type 2 diabetes, another hormonal imbalance problem, are closely connected to PCOS. The first priority for every woman at any age, counsels Northrup, is to get blood sugar (glucose) under control. “Get a glucometer. You don’t need a prescription. If your blood sugar level isn’t between 80 and 90 in the morning, you need to look at your diet and lifestyle. Getting this under control will create hormonal balance in the vast majority of women. It’s so simple.”

long-term effects on all other hormones,” advises Northrup. Perimenopause Concurrently, many women sacriThe next hormonal shift overlaps with fice self-nurturance in order to nurture a woman’s reproductive years. Sympothers. The first result is often prementoms of perimenopause, or the start of strual syndrome (PMS), which Northrup menopause and the end of childbearing calls a “lifestyle disease.” “We know years, typically show up between the that this problem seems to worsen with early and late 30s. each subsequent child. That made the These range from hot flashes, night connection for me,” she adds, “that with sweats and insomnia to weight gain, growing families and responsibilities, fuzzy thinking and redistribution of hair women no longer take care of themon the body. Again, the presence of selves as well; no longer get the amount xenoestrogens and stress contribute. of exercise they once did. The body is Women of other cultures rarely quite forgiving in their 20s, much less so experience the intensity of perimenoin their 30s.” pausal symptoms Part of the To find a local compounding that Western women result is the attempt to reduce stress lev- pharmacy for customized, report. So does that make perimenoels by eating highfat and high-sugar bioidentical hormone blends, pause a lifestyle disease, as well? comfort foods. as prescribed by a medical Emphatically Weight gain, blood yes, says Holly Lusugar imbalances practitioner, visit iacprx.org. cille, a doctor of naand sex hormone turopathy, registered imbalances follow. “Excess blood sugar nurse and past president of the California changes the way estrogen, progesterNaturopathic Doctors Association. “Diet one and testosterone are metabolized,” and lifestyle are absolutely essential Northrup explains. “PMS and other

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Seven Steps to Address Perimenopausal Symptoms 1. Good diet that’s heavy on organic foods and low in saturated fats 2. Vitex, or chasteberry, to increase progesterone naturally and help balance excess estrogen 3. Black cohosh extract, like that found in Remifemin, to control hot flashes and night sweats 4. Blood sugar stability

to a healthy hormonal system,” which she explains in her book, Creating and Maintaining Balance: A Woman’s Guide to Safe, Natural, Hormone Health. “The biochemistry of the body is based on vitamins and minerals. If we compromise food and lifestyle choices, we are not getting the nutrients necessary to have a healthy endocrine system.” Weight gain is a particular concern during perimenopause. In their book, From Belly Fat to Belly Flat, Dr. Randolph and Genie James, co-founders of the Natural Hormone Institute, advocate a specific eating plan to override belly fat and related accumulating effects of excess estrogen. “In perimenopause, progesterone production usually declines rapidly, more than 120 times faster than estrogen or

5. Stress management, as well as adrenal support via an adrenal glandular supplement 6. Regular exercise 7. Bioidentical hormone replacement, if symptoms become too uncomfortable Source: Creating and Maintaining Balance: A Woman’s Guide to Safe, Natural, Hormone Health, by Dr. Holly Lucille testosterone production. That’s what aggravates the symptoms,” Randolph notes. “Because women in perimenopause are usually still menstruating, they think their hormones are okay.” “The more body fat you have, the more estrogen tips the hormonal imbalance,” says Lucille. “Those fat cells hold on to toxins and place more burden on the liver, making it unable to effectively metabolize those extra estrogens,” which are stored in body fat and brought into the body as xenoestrogens. “At the end of the day, estrogen is a messenger, and its message is to tell cells to grow and proliferate. That’s what we don’t want.” When estrogen becomes dominant, several things happen, including a more rapid release of insulin from the

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Foods to Reduce Estrogen Dominance d Cruciferous vegetables and green leafy vegetables with indole-3carbinol to decrease xenoestrogens, including broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, spinach, celery and kale; two to three servings a day d Any citrus fruits, which have dlimonene to promote estrogen detoxification; one serving a day d Insoluble fiber as an estrogen binder, such as oats, berries, dried beans and apples; two servings a day d Lignans as estrogen binders, such as flaxseed, sesame seeds and flaxseed oil; two to three tablespoons a day Source: From Belly Fat to Belly Flat, by Dr. C.W. Randolph, Jr., and Genie James pancreas, which triggers sugar cravings. “It’s not a willpower problem,” Randolph assures. “Too much estrogen causes you to pack on the pounds in the belly area, and belly fat produces more estrogen. It’s a vicious cycle.” Lucille considers perimenopause the opposite of puberty and counsels, “While we are dealing with these changes, bringing some hormones on board for a short time can be a valuable

tool.” However, she cautions, replacing anything isn’t the issue. “You have to look at the big picture,” she avers. “Putting hormones into a toxic body is like putting gas into a dirty gas tank. We have to restore function first.” Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) has been a boon for millions. Results of the Women’s Health Initiative, a national study of women’s health between 1991 and 2002, involving more than 160,000 postmenopausal women ages 50 to 79, sparked more widespread use early in the 21st century, when research began to show the dire consequences of synthetic hormone replacement. The Million Woman Study of British women also found that taking synthetic hormones at menopause doubled the risk of breast cancer for women. Northrup calls bioidenticals “nature’s ideal design,” due to the prescription of individually tailored doses, custommade by compounding pharmacies. Although these are rarely covered by insurance, estradiol-only patches may be; however, additional progesterone and testosterone may still be necessary, depending on test results, according to Northrup.

Menopause

If a woman has had no menstrual periods for 12 months, she is considered to be in menopause. However, Lucille asserts, “Menopause is not a disease.” Northrup touts menopause as the most creative and precious time of a woman’s life; it is often a time of spiritual awakening and self-fulfillment. “When the female brain passes menopause, the brain changes,” advises Northrup. “In a sense, we move from alternating current to direct current; I believe that this is the way the brain encodes wisdom.” “Yet there are women in their 60s that are still having hot flashes. What should they do?” queries Northrup. Natural alternatives exist that are safe and effective. “Many herbs have been used for millennia that have estrogen-like properties, but do not have estrogen’s side effects,” Northrup says. “There is huge confusion about this: Plant hormones have different structures than mammalian hormones and cannot act as growth hormones. If you have too much estrogen, these plant hormones can actually protect against excess stimulation.” Her favorite is pueraria mirifica, which has helped relieve perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms in 80 percent of her patients within days. (Because the method of harvesting and processing supports effectiveness, Northrup likes Solgar brand PhytoGen.) She also uses maca, from Peru, for its phytoestrogens, vitex, black cohosh and omega-3 fatty acids such as those found in salmon for ongoing hot flashes. “Some women go through these years and truly take their place as women of wisdom and power. They don’t need any additional hormone support; they have enough life energy coming,” comments Northrup. “Others may need to take some kind of hormone support their entire lives. Either way, no one should suffer.” Kathleen Barnes is a natural health advocate, author and publisher. User’s Guide to Natural Hormone Replacement is among her many books. Visit KathleenBarnes.com.

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May 2012

the chance of a bad outcome and subsequent lawsuit. Others pay lip service to the idea, or put so many restrictions on who will be allowed to have a trial of labor, that in the end, most of their patients end up having no choice other than a repeat C-section. If a woman is dead set against a VBAC, I do not pressure her into attempting it, but I do make sure all of my patients are educated and up to date about the pros and cons of VBACS -- and C-sections. First and foremost, the most serious risks of VBAC are uterine rupture possibly leading to fetal distress and or maternal hemorrhage. Uterine rupture is rare, occurring less than 1% of the time. Long-lasting effects from complications to mom or baby are even rarer. Keep in mind that a C-section is a major surgical procedure that involves a longer recovery time and has an overall higher risk of complications compared with vaginal delivery. Yet the C-section rate has skyrocketed in the past decade or so, and here in Connecticut, more than one-third (34.6%) of all deliveries are done via C-section -- slightly higher than the national average. Fewer VBAC trials have exacerbated this trend and has meant that women who have their first baby via C-section are far more likely to deliver subsequent babies the same way.

Myth #2: Pregnant women are eating for two.

Well, yes and no. Many women take this saying literally, and start increasing their calorie intake from the get go, often

Five Common Myths about Pregnancy and Childbirth by Russell Turk, MD

he amount of information - and misinformation available to pregnant women is overwhelming. As a result, many mothers-to-be have a hard time trying to separate fact from fiction when it comes time to have a baby. Below, Dr. Russell Turk, founder of Riverside Obstetrics and Gynecology in Greenwich, sets the record straight regarding common pregnancy and childbirth myths.

Myth #1: VBACs are fringe.

Many women remain under the impression that VBACs (vaginal birth after Cesarean-section) are an alternative, risky choice, but that is an outdated misconception. In fact, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) now encourages physicians to do more VBACs because they are considered safe and are often successful for select patients and in the appropriate setting (in a hospital where anesthesia is available immediately). However, many physicians have decided that the risks associated with the procedure, albeit very rare, are not worth 32

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putting on weight before even seeing their OBGYN for the first time. It is not uncommon to remind patients that the second person you are eating for weighs only a few ounces by the end of the first trimester and less than a pound until about the 24th week. It’s uncommon to see women who don’t gain enough weight in pregnancy. Obviously, this is not news women want to hear. But it’s simply not true that most pregnant women have to eat a lot of extra calories for the baby to grow. The average American diet contains more than enough calories to gain the appropriate amount of weight during pregnancy. This is important because excessive weight gain is clearly associated with increased risk of C-section, diabetes and other problems. If you begin the pregnancy in a healthy weight range, you should eat about 300 extra calories a day—less if you are overweight to start. Pregnancy is a time when you should eat the healthiest foods possible and try to incorporate whole grains, low fat protein, fruits and veggies into your diet, because the food you eat does pass through

to the baby. If the healthier foods you are eating are lower in calories, you can certainly eat more. In this case focusing on increasing protein is typically a good idea, especially in the third trimester.

Myth #3: It’s not a big deal to ask to be induced.

Many women believe that being induced has little impact on the birthing experience, and can appear a welcome convenience for both parents-to-be and doctors. The fact is, if your doctor induces you out of convenience or without a clear-cut medical indication, it may increase the likelihood of a much longer, complicated birthing experience. What’s more, studies show that voluntary (elective) inductions significantly increase the chances of having a C-section. Being induced, especially if your cervix isn’t ready to go into labor, may lead to a long, drawn out process involving prostaglandin gels and Pitocin. Patients hoping for a more natural birthing experience typically find themselves behind the 8 Ball in terms of reducing their ability to move and walk around in labor because once you are induced you have to be continuously monitored. In many cases that may mean being confined to bed. The majority of women hoping to go through labor without an epidural find this much harder to accomplish if they’ve been induced, although it’s not impossible. There are many valid medical reasons to induce labor. If it is recommended, I suggest asking why it is considered necessary at this time, and whether continued watchful waiting might not be an option. As an example, OBGYNs used to routinely wait until 42 weeks to induce patients. But nowadays, if a doctor senses a patient is antsy, they sometimes offer to induce them on or around their due date. Instead, closely monitoring the baby and waiting until somewhere between one to two weeks past the due date (provided all is otherwise well with mom and baby) will increase your chances of a vaginal delivery. Another common reason cited for induction is that the baby is getting too big. However, studies show that unless the baby is measuring extremely large relative to the woman’s size, your best chance for a vaginal delivery is to await spontaneous labor.

Myth #4: Most women have to tone down their exercise regimen in pregnancy.

When I became a physician 20 years ago, the conventional

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wisdom held that pregnant women should avoid vigorous exercise. But we now know that it’s perfectly fine for most women to continue their exercise programs in pregnancy. Over the past two decades the recommendations have switched from allowing exercising in pregnancy to encouraging exercise with relatively few restrictions. The biggest misperception nowadays is that you need to monitor your heart rate. Instead, women should exercise until they’re tired but not completely exhausted, and you need to listen to your body a bit more closely because of physical changes that can occur such as loosening of the joints from pregnancy hormones. Always discuss your specific exercise activities with your doctor, but many strength training and aerobic workouts can not only be continued throughout the pregnancy with minor adjustments but are clearly associated with appropriate weight gain, controlling blood sugar metabolism and lowering the risk of C-section.

Myth #5: The time to discuss a birth plan with your OBGYN is at the end of the pregnancy.

The time to discuss important issues about your birthing experience is early on, during one of your first prenatal visits. The desire for more natural, less interventional birthing experiences is increasingly popular, but some OBGYN practices may not be a good match for women interested in this kind of childbirth. Warning signs of a poor fit include rigid rules during labor and delivery, variation of the physicians’ opinions within the practice, and apparent disregard towards questions and ideas that are important to you and your partner. If you are interested in a VBAC trial of labor and only one of six doctors is agreeable to this, your chances of having that opportunity are small. And if your OBGYN responds the way my sister-in-law’s doctor did when asked about a birth plan (She said, “How would you like it if I told you how to do your job?”), you’ll still have plenty of time to find a more open-minded doctor. Russell Turk, MD is the founder of Riverside Obstetrics & Gynecology in Greenwich, CT. He is the former chief of service for Kaiser Permanente’s northern Virginia area, where he supervised 30 physicians and 15 midwives and nurse practitioners. His blog, Housecalls can be found at RiversideOBGYN.com/blog. See ad pg 5.

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Anti-Aging Skincare Turn Back the Clock with New Treatments and Breakthroughs by Linda Sechrist

With aging still a largely mysterious process, current seekers of perpetual youth and beauty are urging scientists to find ways to slow or even reverse it. New tools to fight lines, wrinkles and sagging skin excite the imagination.

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oday’s anti-aging toolbox is filled with promise. Tools range from at-home strengthening and refining creams to commercial treatment technologies such as cold laser, intense pulsed light (IPL), light-emitting diode (LED), microdermabrasion, photofacials, and skin tightening and rejuvenating ultrasound. Acupuncture facelifts make use of ancient Chinese techniques. Then there are the more invasive injectables, fillers and chemical peels. How do we know what is best for us? Whatever one’s chosen tools, Hema Sundaram, author of Face Value: The Truth about Beauty—and a GuiltFree Guide to Finding It, believes that women at any age have every right to pursue the outward expression of their inner beauty. The Washington, D.C.based medical doctor and board-certified dermatologist, who specializes in cosmetic surgery, supports a woman’s freedom to choose, without embarrass-

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ment or criticism. She emphasizes the positive effects of cosmetic procedures performed for the right reasons and notes, “Restoring the balance between a woman’s innerMassage and outerTherapy selves can Clinical transform her life.” Yoga • Chi Fit • Qi-Gong An at-home anti-aging regimen Tai Chi Easy aimed at retarding time’s telltales and Acupuncture enhancing beauty lays • theHypnosis foundation for an effective partnership with an esthetiHealth Workshops cian or dermatologist. Performed consistently, do-it-yourself treatments can help to maintain cosmetic work performed by skincare professionals. Popular, non-invasive techniques are explained here. Many take it a step further Relax...And discover thewith a meditation practice designed to develop direction of your inner compass. and project inner, spiritual beauty. We have created the ideal space Gua Sha. ThistoChinese technique and location help you take a (pronounced GWA SHA) uses a small much deserved break from the medicinal board gently massage, “doing” andtopractice “being.” manipulate and stimulate energy points 635 Danbury Road, Ridgefield, CT along the face. The objective is to 208.403.2522 promote a normal flow of energy, or qi www.move2wellness.com (pronounced KEE), and blood circu-

lation and to remove while restorGood genes, a impurities, toxins. It also supports, ing hydration. Adding lymph drainage. healthy lifestyle an organic, fruit-based Gua sha activates peel of alpha- and betainner vitality by stimulat- and skilled beauty hydroxy acids supplies ing both the superficial ideal boost that can enhancements an and deep muscles that result in an even brighter control facial expression. complexion and firmer can slow the Beauty benefits include looking skin. clock of aging. a brighter complexion Retinols. These natuand a reduction in the rally occurring forms of ~ Dr. Hema Sundaram, appearance of wrinkles, vitamin A are a gentler, owner, Sundaram dark under-eye circles over-the-counter verDermatology, Cosmetic and puffy eyes. It also sion of retinoids. They & Laser Surgery Center, lifts sagging at the neck likewise promote healthy Rockville, Maryland, and jaw. cell renewal and collaand Fairfax, Virginia. Hypnox. This gen production. 25-minute guided Gentle Microdermhypnotherapeutic audio recording is abrasion. At-home microdermabrasion touted as a natural alternative to the kits work to reduce the visibility of neurotoxin Botox. Instead of paralyzing pores and fine lines. Many come with targeted facial muscles, which inhibbattery-operated brushes, aluminumits natural facial expression, Hypnox free scrubs, balancing toners and targets and retrains the same muscles moisturizing serums; look for natural to stop habitual frowning, lip puckeringredients. ing and squinting. The process is said Microcurrent Facial Sculpting. to promote overall relaxation, allowing “Electrical stimulation forces facial wrinkles to fade away. muscles to do sit-ups,” says Charlene Facercize. Muscle resistance Handel, owner of Skin Fitness, Etc., in training helps tone and enliven the Carlsbad, California. Twenty years of 30 muscles of the face to render more experience with handheld commercial youthful-looking features. Muscle fibers products have convinced this certified literally smooth out, shorten and lift the holistic esthetician that if the current attached skin on the face and neck. can’t be felt, it isn’t doing the job. Enzyme Mask. A weekly exfoliat Trained by Elina Fedotova, CEO of ing fruit enzyme mask gently dissolves Elina Organics and founder of the Asdead surface cells and embedded sociation of Holistic Skin Care Practitio-

Facial Contouring Primer by Linda Sechrist

acial acupuncture uses 12 strategically placed needles in the scalp and neck at muscle attachment points to lift the face and neck. “Ten to 20 treatments refresh the face, regardless of your age,” advises Anna Baker, a doctor of Oriental medicine and owner of Faces by Dr. Anna, in Sarasota, Florida. Baker advises that the results of 50 treatments are frequently better than a facelift, from sculpting the jawline and neck profile to erasing lines and lifting droopy eyelids. “Cold lasers, IPL and LED use gentle energy from light waves to act on cells deep in the skin, helping them to grow back stronger,” says cosmetic chemist and esthetician Elina Fedotova, of Elina Organics, of Kalamazoo, Michigan, and Chicago, Illinois. Of the three, she considers IPL the most dramatic. Offered by many estheticians, ultrasound wands emit radio frequencies to stimulate skin cells through vibration. Used to diminish wrinkles and lessen the appearance of scars, it also facilitates migration of serum and mask ingredients to sink into deeper layers of skin. Note that because ultrasound penetrates to the blood level, any products used during the treatment should be only the purest and most natural.

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ners, Handel cautions that techniques intended to move skincare products beyond the outermost dermal layer—such as microcurrent, cold laser, ultrasound and LED—should be 100 percent natural and organic. “Read labels to find the USDA Organic seal and avoid subjecting skin to synthetic chemicals and ingredients that contain petroleum derivatives from crude oil; artificial fragrances, which frequently contain toxic chemicals; and synthetic preservatives

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he ability to gently melt away body fat lies largely in the hands of a physician certified to perform Food and Drug Administration-approved, noninvasive treatments. Here are three of the most common. Zerona. Developed by Santa Barbara Medical Innovations (SBMI), this cool laser technology targets the fat in isolated trouble spots, such as love handles and belly bulges. According to the company, Zerona targets adipose (fat) cells with specific, low-level wavelengths of light, causing the fat to seep out of the cells. The deflated cells result in a smaller, tighter contour. SBMI’s studies show that the fat is safely absorbed into the body’s lymphatic system and eventually metabolized by the liver. Zeltiq Coolsculpting. Used in Europe and Canada before coming to the United States, this FDA-approved approach is performed in a doctor’s office, typically under the supervision of a dermatologist or plastic surgeon; no anesthesia or recovery time is necessary. It employs a contained suction device to cool the skin, as well as the fat beneath it, to 40 degrees. Several days later, the cooled fat cells begin to shrink. Damaged fat cells are slowly digested by the body over several months and removed through the liver. VelaShape. This non-surgical treatment for reducing cellulite combines radio frequency energy, infrared light, mechanical rollers and vacuum suction to heat and massage the shallow layers of fat that contribute to cellulite. The handheld vacuum sucks at the fatty pocket, while the infrared light heats and shrinks fat cells.

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Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings magazines.

by Linda Sechrist

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such as parabens,” she advises. The ultimate responsibility for skincare is our own. When a healthy diet, sufficient sleep, exfoliation, hydration and natural topical treatments are no longer keeping gravity at bay, individuals of either gender need not hesitate to seek help from skin-care professionals.

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Sage Advice According to Dr. Brian S. Biesman, director of the Nashville Centre for Laser and Facial Surgery, where he specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive eyelid surgery, the ideal candidate for such treatments is near their ideal body weight and wants to remove unwanted fat in localized areas. He counsels, “It’s not an alternative to healthy diet or lifestyle.”

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Moving Towards the First Age of Conscious Evolution by Barbara Marx Hubbard

e are being presented with the greatest opportunity that humanity has ever consciously faced together: the effort to co-create a planetary shift in time to avert global catastrophe by helping humanity cross the gap from “Here”—our current breakdowns— to “There”—our future of infinite possibility. Why is this invitation so urgent? Because our current condition of over-growth in our finite Earth system is simply not sustainable. We will either evolve toward a more sustainable, compassionate, and creative global system, or we face the real possibility of devolution and destruction of our life support system and of much of life on Earth—within our own or our children’s lifetime! This dangerous reality is motivating us to enter into what I call the first age of conscious evolution—that is, evolution by choice and not by chance. What is being required of us is to learn to co-evolve with nature and co-create with Spirit. Why do I believe that the timing is so urgent? Why now? For the first time in our conscious history we are being given the opportunity to guide and ease our transition to the

next stage of evolution. This situation is new for humanity, for we are the first Earth species to consciously face evolution or extinction. This condition is new for humanity, but it is not novel for the universe. Evolution operates by “punctuated equilibrium,” long periods of slow change, punctuated by apparent sudden jumps. For billions of years, nature has evolved through creative leaps, progressing from energy into matter, to planets, to primitive life, to animal life, to human life. When we look back to our 13.7 billion year history, we can see nature’s lessons as recurrent patterns: • Crises almost always precede transformation. • Problems are evolutionary drivers. • Nature takes jumps through greater synergy and cooperation within and among species.   These lessons are a great wake-up call for the maturation of humanity.  When a system reaches a “chaos point, it tries to right itself by going backward to the old; this is why we see reactive movements everywhere now. An evolving system must seek out new structures and systems toward a new configuration—or face rapid decline. According to system theorists, small positive fluctuations in a sea of social chaos can jump the system to a higher order.

The opportunity being offered to us is to co-create positive innovations and new ways of being, behaving and living as a new humanity. The new good news is, we are now intentionally co-creating humanity’s Great Shift to the age of conscious evolution. Now it is our turn in evolutionary history to co-create a new society, a new humanity, a new Earth. December 21, 2012, has been identified by Mayan prophecy as the end of a long cosmic cycle. Therefore, December 22, 2012, has been selected to be our planetary “due date,” the new Day One for the next era of evolution. A profound awareness of an impending planetary shift came to me in 1966 as a deep personal revelation, when I knew nothing about the Mayan calendar or other prophecies. This event was a flash of expanded reality that I call the Planetary Birth Experience. At that moment my inner knowing understood these words in my heart: Our crisis is a Birth. I saw that what all the great avatars and mystics of humanity have told us is true: We are one; we are whole; we are good; and we are being born as a Universal Humanity within a universe of immeasurable intelligence, energy, and dimension. In this vision, I saw that we are a product of universal evolution, from the flaring forth after the Big Bang to the historical present, and I was guided to go tell the story of our birth. The amazing part now is that everything I experienced in that epiphany so many years ago is now happening in real time! Barbara Marx Hubbard is a renowned visionary and evolutionary educator. She is currently co-producing with The Shift Network a global event entitled, “Birth 2012”. Birth2012.com. The preceding article is adapted from her new book, Birth 2012 and Beyond: Humanity’s Great Shift Toward the Age of Conscious Evolution and is reprinted with permission of Shift Books ©2012. Meet Barbara Hubbard at the Northeast Birth 2012 event on Sunday, June 3, 10a.m. to 5p.m. at Wainwright House (260 Stuyvesant Avenue, Rye, NY). For more information visit VistarFoundation.org or Wainwright.org.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

May 2012

consciouseating

Liquid Taste Treats Try These Healthy Green Drinks

by Jason Manheim

magine a diet that eliminates the need for calorie counting and never prompts a late-night rummage in search of foods possibly high in fat, sugar or processed ingredients; one that allows you to eat like you do now, except for one small change—the addition of a green drink or smoothie. A green drink isn’t a meal replacement; it’s a supplement (a starter or side dish) to the diet you already enjoy. Simply drink one prior to breakfast and if you are committed to optimal health, an-

Fairfield County Edition

other before lunch and dinner. You can change the ingredients at will, according to taste. Fruits and vegetables are the most nutrient-rich foods on the planet, accepted as staples in just about every healthy diet imaginable. From vegetarian to omnivore to Weight Watchers diets, the green drink is welcome. After a week or so of drinking green, your body will begin to crave

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the rush of nutrients it receives and less healthy foods will simply lose their appeal. You will naturally gravitate towards foods that fuel your body, instead of foods that drag it down. Robert Young, Ph.D., author of The pH Miracle, has been in the forefront of promoting the fact that the body thrives when its pH levels are more alkaline than acidic. Diseasecausing bacteria and viruses, as well as other abnormalities, flourish in an acid state, while the body’s natural defense mechanisms work best in an alkaline state. He writes, “Our glands and organs function properly in exact proportion to the amount of alkaline and acid levels in our system; eating a balance of 75 percent alkaline foods and 25 percent acidic foods is ideal.” Young reports that keeping your body in an alkaline state amplifies benefits such as immune system function, strength, stamina and weight loss. Fruits and vegetables, especially green leafy vegetables, are extremely alkaline, and drinking them is an easy way to consume more.

According to the Institute of Medicine’s Dietary Reference Intakes for Energy, Carbohydrates, Fiber, Fat, Fatty Acids, Cholesterol, Protein and Amino Acids, the average adult needs about 50 grams of protein a day. Eating normal meals generally supplies that. Greens, despite the common misconception, also contain a good amount of protein when eaten in large quantities, which green drinks provide. Getting started requires only a blender or juicer, depending on the recipe. Juicing is great for a quick jolt of concentrated energy; the drink delivers maximum nutrient intake, and the absence of fiber enables near-immediate absorption of vitamins and minerals. Juicing is also preferred by people with digestive issues or those looking to cleanse or heal their system. While blending a green smoothie reduces nutrient concentration through oxidation, by whipping air into the drink, it is ideal for people that need to keep their sugar in check. It’s the flip side of juicing, which can turn a five-pound bag of fruits and greens into a glass of concentrated fruit sugars, called fructose. Blending also delivers fiber, which helps keep the digestive tract in tip-top shape. It can even serve as a complete meal; you can add avocado or raw almond butter for healthy fats, and protein powder, raw chocolate and bee pollen for extra stamina and endurance—much more than what is possible using a juicer. In most cases, a typical blender will suffice. However, when blending fruits and vegetables with a harder consistency, such as carrots, pineapple hearts and apples, or waxy greens like kale, you will need more specialized equipment. Two professional blenders, Blendtec and Vitamix, are a good fit for home countertops. Spinach, chard and mixed greens make a perfect base for beginners. Just blend or juice them with a few sweet fruits and berries like banana, blueberries and apple to disguise the green taste. From there, you can experiment by adding more potent ingredients like kale, beet greens, mustard greens, arugula and watercress. Mint or other herbs add a refreshing twist. It helps newcomers to start with more fruits than greens, and then gradually shift the balance. For even more smoothie nutrition, try adding superfoods, such as puréed pumpkin, coconut milk or oil, nut and seed butters, avocado and even garlic. To assuage a sweet tooth, add a dash of honey or pitted dates to the blender. You don’t have to live like a strict dieter, athlete or nutritionist to be healthier and feel better. Just toss a few fruits and greens into a blender or juicer each day and drink to your health. Jason Manheim is a health, fitness and green drink junkie in Los Angeles, CA. His educational website, HealthyGreenDrink.com, was the inspiration for his book, The Healthy Green Drink Diet: Advice and Recipes to Energize, Alkalize, Lose Weight, and Feel Great.

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Penne Primavera with Salmon (Serves 4)

This recipe is a superb showcase for rich salmon and tangy crème fraîche. If you’d rather not bake the salmon you could pan-sear or steam it instead, or use about 1 1/3 cups leftover or store-bought cooked salmon. 8 ounces salmon, cut into 2 portions 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil 12 ounces whole wheat penne 3/4 cup fresh or frozen peas 1 cup halved grape tomatoes 3/4 cup crème fraîche 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese 1 large shallot, finely chopped 1/2 cup chopped fresh dill 1 bunch thin asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt or coarse sea salt, plus more to taste 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste • Preheat oven to 450°F. Brush both sides of the salmon with oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place skin-side down on a small baking sheet and roast until salmon is just lightly pink in the center, 8 to 10 minutes. • Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook until al dente, about 13 minutes, adding asparagus and peas in the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain pasta and vegetables and return them to the pot. Place over low heat and stir in tomatoes, crème fraîche, Parmesan and shallot. Remove and discard salmon skin; flake salmon into chunks with a fork and toss into pasta along with dill.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

May 2012

Great Green Drinks by Jason Manheim

Cool Slaw

Green Clean

This refreshing summer delight is perfect for parties by the pool, barbecues and picnics in the park. Broccoli’s cancer-fighting properties combat carcinogens introduced to meat by a smoky grill. Ginger works to settle stomachs and has long been a remedy for heartburn.

This tasty concoction begs to be poured into an ice-filled punch bowl and ladled into frosty glasses. You’ll never know your body is detoxifying as you gulp this tasty summer treat. For those that find it a bit too sour, add an apple or two. Green Clean not only has high amounts of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, it is one of the most aromatically appealing drinks around—crisp, clean and refreshing.

1 crown of broccoli ½ small red cabbage 2 carrots 1 lemon (peeled) 1 green apple Ginger to taste Peel ginger root and juice all ingredients together. Serve over ice.

Greens Lover

The good-for-you factor in salads is often diminished by introducing salad oils and dressings, sacrificing some health benefits for taste, but not so with this drink. The fiber-rich kale and the veritable powerhouse of vitamins in spinach pair with sweet carrots and a tart green apple, juiced to a harmonious balance of taste and nutrition.

1 lime 1 lemon 1 large cucumber 1 handful basil 1 handful mint 2 handfuls spinach Ginger to taste Combine ingredients and juice.

3 leaves kale 1 bunch cilantro 1 cup spinach 1 cucumber 1–2 carrots 1 green apple Combine ingredients and juice.

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Think of this drink as summertime in a glass. Though the name traditionally has a less-than-healthy connotation, this vitamin-rich twist on the theme will leave partakers refreshed and energized. Celery and mint make for a smooth and clean taste, while delivering essential nutrients and properties known to help lower blood pressure. Bottoms up!

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This sweet treat is an easy way to introduce dark greens like collards into your diet. Collards have a strong, distinct flavor when cooked, but when blended raw among earthy-sweet and tropical flavors like kiwi and strawberry, they can add a spicy zing to a fruit smoothie. Mangoes enhance the health benefits with enzymes that aid digestion, glutamine for memory power, and heart-healthy antioxidants.

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Fill blender with as much water as desired. Add collard greens and basil. Blend until smooth, and then add fruit. Pulse-blend to a desired consistency.

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Before the new day starts, treat yourself to a flavorful getaway filled with rich vitamins. Bok choy, categorized as a negative calorie food, because it helps burn calories, nicely complements tropical elements. Garnish with a tiny umbrella and feel the sea breeze. 2 bulbs bok choy 1 orange (peeled) 1 cup coconut water 1 cup pineapple 1 banana Combine the first three ingredients and blend until smooth. Add the other fruits. Pulse-blend to a desired consistency.

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Recipes courtesy of Jason Manheim, from The Healthy Green Drink Diet. eNaturalAwakenings.com

May 2012

healthykids

Mom-to-Mom WISDOM Calming Advice for More ‘Good Days’ with Fretful Kids by Beth Davis

arenting has more than its share of stressful challenges, and today’s moms are often frustrated by conflicting advice. As families search for answers to daily issues, a more holistic and natural approach, known as conscious parenting, has been gaining momentum. According to Lori Petro, founder of TEACH through Love, a child advocacy group and educational resource for progressive parents, conscious parenting comprises the spirit of cooperation, instead of traditional models of discipline and control. “We want to teach our children how to live in the world, explore, be creative, compassionate, learn appropriate expressions of emotion and think for themselves,” she says. To help maximize the rewards for all, Natural Awakenings asked several forward-thinking moms for their best tips on how to handle some of parenting’s biggest challenges.

Surviving the First Year

As a certified Happiest Baby educator, mother of three and owner of Gummy Giggles Baby Boutique, in Yukon, Oklahoma, Lori Simmons provides parents with essential tools and knowledge to help calm unhappy babies. She notes that while dealing with a crying infant is simply part of being a parent, colic is a condition moms dread the most. Making the baby feel as if he or she is still in the womb is key, she advises. “People try to not make any noise, but 42

Fairfield County Edition

the reality is, babies often cry because it’s too silent.” She recommends swaddling the baby, swaying and shushing quietly in the baby’s ear—all to mimic the comforts of the womb. The best advice that she gives any new parent is that it’s okay not to know everything. “Just listen to your instincts and understand that each child will learn and grow at his or her own pace,” she says. “Most importantly, relax and don’t sweat the small stuff.”

Weathering Toddler Meltdowns

Petro says we can better meet the challenges of these years—including temper tantrums, biting, toilet training and sleep problems—if we understand these situations in the context of a child’s development. During early growth, exploration and change, children typically have trouble expressing their thoughts and feelings, and that can prove overwhelming for everyone. So, what can adults do

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in the middle of a toddler meltdown? First, remember that it’s the rare parent that hasn’t had to deal with a tired, cranky, screaming toddler. Simmons admits to having handled her share of tantrums. “They don’t understand their own frustration, so it’s difficult for parents to understand the reason for outbursts,” she observes. Her strategy is to take the stressed child out of the situation. It helps to know that some hitting and biting is considered normal for toddlers, especially if they see it as an effective way to get what they want. Parents can put an end to it much the same way they deal with other inappropriate behavior, advises Petro. She suggests remaining calm, finding the root cause of the

situation and acknowledging the child’s feelings and needs. Understanding why the child is doing it is crucial to making it stop. “Conscious parenting operates from the premise that all behavior is communication to meet a need,” she says.

Addressing Adolescence

According to Certified Life Coach Clare Seffrin Bond, although the adolescent years can be difficult, there’s plenty that parents can do to nurture teens and encourage responsible behavior. “The best parenting advice I ever received was from my mom, who encouraged me to grow into parenthood—taking it day by day, without the expectation that I would be proficient simply through the act of giving birth,” says this mother of two, in Richmond, Indiana. Rewarding relationships come through accepting the notion that children are individuals living their own journey, rather than extensions of their parents. “What parents see or feel in a situation is not necessarily what the child is experiencing,” Bond explains. “Taking the time to recognize the fact of individual realities can be huge in rethinking one’s approach to discipline.” She recommends speaking to adolescents honestly—even when it’s painful—and listening to them, even when we may not want to hear, or believe, what they’re saying. “Stay in touch with the fact that your relationship with your children is absolutely huge in terms of their—and your— development as a happy and fulfilled person,” counsels Bond. “Work hard at remembering your own teen years, including the frustrations and disappointments. Empathy and respect are essential ingredients in successful human relationships at every age.”

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eNaturalAwakenings.com

May 2012

naturalpet

a nice, semicircular paw, as viewed from above. Cavalier King Charles spaniels are the exception to the round paw look. Baths. Have towels and a gentle shampoo close by. Then bring in the pet and close the bathroom door; it’s easier than chasing a wet dog through the house. Use conditioner for mats only—a dimesized blob is enough—not for dog hair overall. Rub it into the mat and let it sit for 15 minutes before combing out the tangle.

YOU DIRTY DOG! Tips for the Grooming Impaired by Avery Mack

Small or shorthaired dogs can take a dip in the bathtub, but large, and/or double-coated breeds are best bathed outdoors or in a special tub in the laundry room, to keep fur out of the drain. A spray attachment will help get water all the way to the skin for breeds like a Keeshond, Malamute or Siberian husky. Bloodhounds, pugs, bulldogs and shar peis need extra care. “Separate the wrinkles, suds up, rinse thoroughly and be careful to dry between the folds,” says Immordino. “These breeds can develop yeast infections between the wrinkles.”

ogs can get into the darnedest messes, and when they do, these head-to-toe grooming tips will make cleanup easier—on both sides of the tub. Shedding. Every dog needs a good comb-out to remove dead hair. When possible, do this outside, to reduce dander or flyaway fur in the house. Use a tool suited to the dog’s coat from a pet store—a brush, comb or saw-toothed loop to get to the undercoat.

Ears. Red, painful, inflamed ears or dark, tarry goo inside an ear means infection or ear mites; head to a local veterinarian for an appropriate salve or drops. “Breeds like the Maltese or poodles get ear infections from moisture held in the ears by too much hair,” explains Diana Immordino, a master groomer with Animal General Hospital, in Port Saint Lucie, Florida. “A professional groomer can show how to gently and safely remove the excess, and advise if a drying powder is needed.”

Matted Fur. Dog hair can felt up faster than a wool sweater in hot water. Always comb the mat starting from the end. If it’s especially stubborn, cut the mat lengthwise to separate into two or three pieces before combing. Don’t cut the mat out entirely, which is as noticeable as cutting a wad of bubble gum out of a child’s hair. Move especially difficult mats into the tub and rub a conditioner into it (a show horse detangler works well).

Teeth. Dogs love chicken- or liverflavored toothpaste; using a tempting flavor makes maintaining sparkling clean teeth and a healthy mouth easy to achieve at home. Brushing several times a week will reduce or eliminate the need to sedate the dog for a more costly professional dental cleaning.

Plucking. Harsh-coated, non-shedding dogs such as the Cairn terrier should not be bathed; strip their coat instead. “Plucking removes the soft, dead undercoat, allows a healthy, vibrant coat to grow and maintains a proper rough texture that repels dirt and water,” explains Patti McCully, a Cairn breeder in Arvada, Colorado. “Baths soften the coat and would eliminate this auto-clean feature. Stripping doesn’t hurt the dog. There’s no stinky smell, either.”

Feet. Make it a habit to keep fur trimmed even with the pads, so the dog isn’t slipping on long hair. Trim to make

Nails. If an owner is squeamish about cutting a dog’s nails too short, local rescue clinics often offer nail trims for a

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Have several towels ready and dry the dog’s entire body before opening the door, because most will bolt to shake themselves dry and rub on rugs and furniture. A hair dryer on the coolest setting can help if it’s kept away from the dog’s skin and the buzzing rush of air doesn’t cause anxiety.

small donation. At home, use a handheld grinding tool with a dome safety feature from the hardware store, instead of grab-and-crunch clippers. “The easiest way to do a dog’s nails is to have the dog do it himself, dragging its nails across a filing board,” counsels M. Shirley Chong, a clicker trainer in Grinnell, Iowa. “I teach people how to do this and it’s easy to train the dogs, because they enjoy it.” The trick is to put the board out of reach between supervised sessions (ShirleyChong.com/keepers/nailfile.html).

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Finally, when the family dog is having a bad hair day and time is an issue, a professional can save the day. Mobile groomers make house calls, and regular grooming contributes to a sweet-smelling dog. Connect with freelance writer Avery Mack at AveryMack@mindspring.com.

Doggie Grooming Recipes Skunk Odor Remover Formula 1 quart 3-percent hydrogen peroxide ¼ cup baking soda 1 tsp liquid dish soap, formulated to remove food oils Mix together at time of usage and immediately apply foaming mixture to affected areas. Avoid the eyes. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Discard excess solution by pouring it down the drain while running water; never store it, because pressure buildup can cause the container to burst.

Natural Citrus Flea and Mosquito Repellant 1 large lemon, including thick rind, sliced paper thin 1 Tbsp crushed rosemary leaves or 6-inch sprig 1 Tbsp aloe pulp or juice, as needed 1 quart hot water Place lemon slices in a bowl and add rosemary. For dry skin, add aloe pulp. Pour a quart of near-boiling water over mixture, lightly stir and let steep overnight. Strain into a large spray bottle and refrigerate until needed. Shake well before spritzing the dog, at least twice a week or more often when bugs are most prevalent, including stomach and paws. Primary source: VetLocator.com

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May 2012

greenliving

Greenwashing Update

HOW TO BE A SMART SHOPPER by Ed Begley, Jr.

e may think we are protecting our family’s health and the Earth’s environment by buying eco-friendly products, but a second look at some so-called “green” products may reveal we’ve been led astray. When companies hurry to cash in with new product lines touting natural living products, too many of the changes are more cosmetic (new packaging, appealing earthy logos) than chemical; sometimes toxicity levels decrease in only minimal amounts. With green marketing campaigns in overdrive, how can we be sure that we truly are selecting a certified safe product?

Hijacking True Eco-Trends Greenwashing occurs when more money or time is spent on advertising and labeling green characteristics than actually developing and implementing environmentally sound products and practices. Words such as natural, non-toxic and eco-safe are now widely misused. Although greenwashing has been around 46

Fairfield County Edition

for nearly a quarter century, corporations today are committing to it at unprecedented levels as they go after the growing market for eco-friendly products. Companies have duly noted that even the average Jane is now interested in protecting the environment and is willing to pay a premium to help. When products and services are really green, everyone wins; but when they are suspect, everyone suffers from a false sense of stewardship. The hijacking of green by irresponsible corporations is aptly characterized by Jay Westerveld’s initial 1986 report on greenwashing, first used to describe the reuse of towels in the hotel industry. His research implied that in-room signage stating that, “Reusing the hotel towels helps save the environment,” was more a ploy to increase reservations from patrons concerned about their environmental footprints than an actual credo of hotel management. One can hardly assert environmental responsibility based on laundry alone,

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but many hotels did, even though they were not participating in any other forms of resource conservation, recycling or waste reduction. The bottled water industry is a more recent example. Amid mounting negative publicity about their unsustainable practices, these companies aggressively overhauled label designs and switched to thinner plastic bottles. Yes, the new form is less wasteful, but drinking bottled water remains among the most environmentally unfriendly habits; plus, drinking from plastic, made with petrochemicals, is unhealthy, according to a Harvard School of Public Health study published in 2011 in the peer-reviewed journal Environmental Health Perspectives. Thankfully, the tide is turning in many companies with integrity. For example, in the 20 years since Westerveld’s report, more hotels are starting to introduce genuine environmental reforms, but so much more progress is needed across the board in business that the true pioneers stand out. Unfortunately, given the creativity of evolving greenwashing tactics, it is becoming more difficult to distinguish between authentic ecoalterations and mere overtures to green living. Buyer beware still applies.

Green Products Must Walk the Walk Here are some telltale signs of greenwashing. Fluffy or ambiguous language. Beware of terms such as all natural, true organic experience or free of [insert scary chemical name]. These terms are not government regulated, and mean nothing. Even the organic monicker has multiple definitions that are meaningless unless a product is certified organic by a respected institution that issues objective standards. Partial or nonexistent list of ingredients. The entire list should be on the label for 100 percent transparency. Unverified health claims. Many companies lie or outright fabricate claims or data. Demand to see supporting scientific studies.

A questionable parent company. If a maker is owned by a company notorious for toxic outputs, chances are that the product’s formula has undergone only minimal changes from the original, non-green version. Consumers are not powerless. “Our research shows that while some consumers blindly trust green product claims, a growing number are doing research on product labels or going online,” says Kevin Tuerff, president of EnviroMedia and co-founder of the Greenwashing Index. “Unfortunately, the Federal Trade Commission is way behind in issuing new rules on green marketing that would protect consumers and help our environment.” GreenwashingIndex.com was launched in 2007 to help shoppers know how to identify vague or misleading claims and when they can be confident of product authenticity. The good news is that more companies today than ever are honestly working toward becoming more green. Smart shoppers will help them on their way by consistently making the right environmental choice, not just a marketing choice. Buyer be aware. Actor, author and pioneering environmental activist Ed Begley, Jr., is a prominent figure in the green movement. Begley’s Earth Responsible Products of plant-based, sustainable and rapidly biodegradable ingredients equal or outperform their non-green counterparts (BegleysBest.com).

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May 2012

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PLEASURE Find a Bike that Fits Your Style by Randy Kambic

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 47.

Tell them you saw it in Natural Awakenings! 48

Fairfield County Edition

ay is here—National Bike Month—heralded by a new Outdoor Industry Association study, which reports that bicycling is adult Americans’ second-favorite outdoor activity, after running. Its popularity is not surprising: Biking provides energizing aerobic and cardio exercise, flexibility, freedom, access and simply makes anyone feel young and vital. “Everyone remembers their first bike and learning to ride it,” says Micah Rice, managing director of national events with USA Cycling, in Colorado Springs. “Parents can tap into that interest and the entire family can participate in a ride around the block, along a bike path, on an adventurous bike trail or in a local group fun ride. Cycling is easier than running, because it is less hard on your body and you can ride at any pace or distance.” Sometimes we ride to combine shopping with exercise on local streets; on other occasions, we eagerly traverse old rail lines or ride hillside moguls.

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Having the right bicycle delivers the most from any experience.

Choosing Wheels Knowing your style and primary planned uses are paramount. Leading manufacturers, including Cannondale, Electra, GT, Marin, Novara, Raleigh, Scott and Trek offer many models for men, women and youngsters. Categories range from urban, road or mountain to recreation, comfort or cruising. Bikes designed for road and pavement are generally lighter and have more gears than mountain bikes, which are built with more shockabsorbing features, such as rugged suspension and rough terrain tires, plus more lower gears to help ascend inclines. Urban and commuting bikes feature a slightly more upright riding position that helps bikers and motorists to see each other better. Steve Colmar, a sales specialist at REI’s Seattle, Washington, store, provides two key guidelines for choosing

and using a bike. Regarding seat position, “Make sure your leg has a slight bend when your pedal is at its lowest point in its rotation. If the legs feel a little cramped, raise the seat.” Regarding handlebar position, “Many serious road bikers adjust handlebars to be a little farther away, so they can lean forward with more weight in their hands, while many casual riders prefer a more upright position, because that’s what they are accustomed to while sitting. Whatever you are most comfortable with works.” He notes that REI (rei.com) master bike technicians nationwide provide advice on selecting a bike, as well as free public bike maintenance classes.

Cargo Carriers

Some riders feel that shouldering a knapsack is uncomfortable, inadequate or hinders pedaling. Bikes can be equipped with cargo-carrying capabilities to increase usability. Whatever the length of trip, having the gear to bring along key supplies will yield more utility and enjoyment: Think water, food, spare tube, cell phone, etc. What about bringing home some fresh produce from the farmers’ market? For around-town use, go with a bike trailer for frequent large loads; smaller amounts can fit into one or two front and/or back bike bags. Local bike shops can advise.

Riding Resources

USA Cycling, the sport’s national governing body, is hosting 17 national competitions with expos around the country this year in mountain, road and track categories for juniors, collegiate, open and senior divisions, plus many other local events. Visit USACycling.org to search for nearby riding clubs and and year-round events. Since 1986, the nonprofit Railsto-Trails Conservancy (RailsToTrails. org) has been using former rail lines and connecting corridors to expand bicycling opportunities. To date, the Washington, D.C.-based organization has converted 20,000-plus miles of rail-trails and is currently seeking to add another 9,000 miles. Its largest annual participatory event is the 335-mile Greenway Sojourn, from D.C. to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania,

Fun Biking Tips

Yoga, Dance & Fitness

Looking to get more out of your wheel time? Here are some bicycling trip tips from RoadBikeJourney.com. n Try a new route today n Bring a camera along

FITNESS

n Join a riding club and attend a bike race

FAIRFIELD Camillo Health & Fitness CamilloHealthAndFitness.com 203.259.9906

n Invite your spouse or a friend to be a ride buddy

MEDITATION

n Track total mileage and roads via GPS

WILTON Sacred Doors

n Use a heart rate monitor and log the encouraging stats

1 Danbury Rd. SacredDoors.net 203.727.8685

from June 17 to 24. Many parks and recreation departments support off-road clubs that preserve and maintain biking trails, and statewide bicycling associations welcome participation. Also check for information and opportunities via AdventureCycling. org, BicycleFriendlyCommunity.org, BikeLeague.org, BikesBelong.org, ClimateRide.org, imba.com (International Mountain Bicycling Association) and PeopleForBikes.org. Pedal power to the people! Randy Kambic, in Estero, FL, is a freelance writer and a copyeditor for Natural Awakenings.

To keep the

body in good health is a duty... otherwise, we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear. ~Buddha

DANCE STAMFORD Jazzercise also located in Norwalk Jazzercise.com 203.845.8856

YOGA FAIRFIELD Yoga for Everybody 27 Unquowa Road 203.254.YOGA (9642) Yoga4everybody.net

NORWALK Nu-Yoga 32-34 Main St. Nu-Yoga.com 203.854.6744

STAMFORD Gianna Ragona-Suarez, RYT Hatha, Vinyasa, Sports Yoga YogaConcepts@gmail.com 203.550.8811

YOGA TRAINING Lotus Gardens Yoga School Lara Azzarito Ward LotusGardensYoga.com 860.354.6241

MARTIAL ARTS REDDING Kindred Spirits KindredSpiritsCenter.com 203.938.3690

STAMFORD Tai Chi & Qi Gong Healing 414 West Main St. 203.570.1752 TaiChiStamford.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

May 2012

COMING IN JUNE

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Fairfield County Edition

by Marianne Williamson

he common wisdom goes like this: that the myth of “some enchanted evening,” when all is awash with the thrill of connection and the aliveness of new romance, is actually a delusion… a hormonally manufactured lie. That soon enough, reality will set in and lovers will awaken from their mutual projections, discover the psychological work involved in two people trying to reach across the chasm of real-life separateness, and come to terms at last with the mundane sorrows of human existence and intimate love. In this case, the common wisdom is a lie. From a spiritual perspective, the scenario above is upside down. From a spiritual perspective, the original high of a romantic connection is thrilling because it is true. It is in fact the opposite of delusion. For in a quick moment, a gift from the gods, we are likely to suspend our judgment of the other, not because we are temporarily insane, but because we are temporarily sane. We are having what you might call a minienlightenment experience. Enlightenment is not unreal; enlightenment—or pure love—is all that is real. Enlightenment is when we see not as through a glass darkly, but truly face-to-face. What is unreal is what comes after the initial high, when the personality self reasserts itself and the wounds and triggers of our human ego form a veil across the face of love. The initial romantic high is not something to

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outgrow, so much as something to earn admittance back into—this time not as an unearned gift of Cupid’s arrows, but as a consequence of the real work of the psychological and spiritual journey. The romantic relationship is a spiritual assignment, presenting an opportunity for lovers and would-be lovers to burn through our own issues and forgive the other theirs, so together we can gain re-entrance to the joyful realms of our initial contact that turn out to have been real love after all. Our problem is that most of us rarely have a psychic container strong enough to stand the amount of light that pours into us when we have truly seen, if even for a moment, the deep beauty of another. The problem we have is not that in our romantic fervor we fall into a delusion of oneness; the problem is that we then fall into the delusion of separateness. And those are the romantic mysteries: the almost blinding light when we truly see each other, the desperate darkness of the ego’s blindness, and the sacred work of choosing the light of mutual innocence when the darkness of anger and guilt descend. Marianne Williamson is an internationally noted speaker, author of 10 books, Unity Church minister and a teacher and student of A Course in Miracles. Her most recent workshops focus on the topic of Enchanted Love: Building the Inner Temple of the Sacred and the Romantic.

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calendarofevents Magazine calendar events must be received by May 5th (for June issue) and adhere to our guidelines. All calendar submissions must be entered online at eNaturalAwakenings.com - click on “submit calendar” at the very top of the page.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 2 Psychic Playshop 7pm w/ Melissa Merendino Doctor of Metaphysics. Learn how to do psychic readings for oneself and others. Pre-register 4/29 $35/door $40. Move2wellness Massage Therapy and Wellness Center. Ridgefield. 203.403.2522.

THURSDAY, MAY 3 Teen Zombie Club 7pm. Join the Westport Library Zombie Club to meet monthly for zombie games, movies, & other zombie-related activities. For middle school & up. Free. Westport Library, Seminar Room. 203.291.4800.

FRIDAY, MAY 4 Reiki Refresher for All Levels 7-9:15pm. Reiki practitioners only. Gigi Benanti shares techniques that will help raise one’s Reiki vibration, includes a re-attunement. $35 + $8 material fee. Angelic Healing Center. Norwalk. 203.852.1150.

SATURDAY, MAY 5 Children’s Drumming Workshop 6:30am. Children of all ages an opportunity to experience the healing energy of the drum, the heartbeat of Mother Earth. $25. A Hand in Healing. 244 Main St. Bridgeport. 203.556.7777.

Birding Class - Birding By Ear 9:30am-12pm. Indoor discussion of how and why birds vocalize, introduction to useful bird sound recordings and outdoor walk to practice Birding By Ear skills. $15/adult. Youths/free. Greenwich Audubon. Ted: 203.869.5272 x230. Reaching Higher Levels of Mediumship 11am4pm w/ Rev. Rita Berkowitz, author, international lecturer, medium and accomplished artist of loved ones from the other side of life. $50. Albertson Memorial Church. Old Greenwich. Pre-register Alison: 914.610.5146. Family Yoga 2:30-3:30 pm w/ Kerri Gawreluk. $20. Calling all mothers, fathers, siblings, and family members... yoga really is for everybody, and this special class is designed for children ages 5-12 years. Yoga for Everybody. Fairfield. 203.254.9642. Speech as a Spiritual Practice 4-6pm w/ Michelle Dalbec-Brunet. Explore practicing truth and compassion through the words one uses to communicate. Learn how the choice of words creates a vibration. $45. Yoga for Everybody. Fairfield. 203.254.9642. Springtime Moonlight Walk 7:45-9:15pm. Seek out the sights, sounds, and smells of a moonlit spring evening visiting field, pond, forest, and lake in search of wildlife. $5/person. Ages 8 & up. Heavy rain cancels. Greenwich Audubon. Ted: 203.869.5272 x230.

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Fairfield County Edition

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MARK YOUR CALENDAR GREEN CHIMNEYS

BIRDS OF PREY DAY Sunday, June 3 • 11am – 4pm

Join Green Chimneys for a major milestone as Birds of Prey Day celebrates 20 years! The popular day of fun, flight and falconry will feature over 100 magnificent birds of prey, live animal demonstrations, and the ceremonial release of a rehabilitated bird. Family fun and activities just for kids. Adults $15; Under 12 $5; Family Pass $35

400 Doansburg Rd, Brewster, NY 10509 845.279.2995 www.GreenChimneys.org

SUNDAY, MAY 6 Kundalini YogaSong & Dreamsculpting 2-4pm w/ Leesa Sklover. Each person has an individual song, one’s individual destiny. Through yoga be Sat Nam, projecting one’s dreams in to the universe. $25. Yoga for Everybody. Fairfield. 203.254.9642.

MONDAY, MAY 7 Play and Tea Open Day 1-2pm. Sip tea and talk with teachers while children play in Waldorfinspired classroom. Mixed-Age Kindergarten and Growing Together. The Clover Hill School at Christ Episcopal Church. Norwalk. RSVP Sarah: 203.661.6484.

TUESDAY, MAY 8 Free Information Session 4-5:30pm. Learn about the new Cultural Cohort in The Graduate

GET RELIEF! Deep Tissue Bodywork That Helps Heal Chronic Pain & Injuries

Meg Maurer • Certified Rolfer® • Rolf® Movement Therapist • Instructor at The Rolf Institute of Structural Integration Call for a FREE Consultation Trumbull / Brookfield

203.770.6552

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MARK YOUR CALENDAR “NORTHEAST BIRTH 2012” Sunday, June 3 • 10am – 5pm Featuring Barbara Marx Hubbard, renowned Evolutionary futurist: A Prophetic Call for a Planetary Shift. Also featuring Oscar Miro-Quesada Solevo: Pachakuti Mesa Tradition of cross-cultural shamanism, and Ron & Victoria Friedman of Vistar Foundation. Wainwright House, 260 Stuyvesant Ave, Rye NY.

THURSDAY, MAY 17 Awakening Your Hidden Storyteller 4-6pm. Free workshop. The Graduate Institute. 171 Amity Rd. Bethany. Call: 203.874.4252. Angel Card Reading 7-9:30pm w/ Gigi Benanti Usui/Karuna Reiki Master. Introduction to Angel card reading for oneself and others. Mini-Reiki sessions included at end of workshop. $28. Angelic Healing Center. 7 Morgan Ave. Norwalk. Preregister: 203.852.1150.

SATURDAY, MAY 19 The Universal Reiki Plan 11am-1pm (3rd Sat. monthly). An introduction to Reiki and sampling! Experienced Reiki teachers, Jeannette and Jim of ReikiOvertones present an informal workshop

and group meditation. Free. Bloodroot Vegetarian Restaurant. Bridgeport. 203.254.3958. ReikiShare for Reiki Practitioners 1:304:30pm. (3rd Sat. monthly). Also free workshop 11am-1pm followed by the Practitioner Reiki Share. Receive a sampling! Free/Love offerings appreciated. Bloodroot Vegetarian Restaurant. Bridgeport. Please pre-register w/ Jim or Jeannette: 203.254.3958.

SUNDAY, MAY 20 Birdwatching at Stratford Shore Points 7:15am. Free. Visit coastal refuges and parks in search of warblers, orioles, flycatchers, shorebirds, and herons. Meet at 7:15am in the parking lot for 600 Long Beach Blvd. Frank Mantlik: 203.984.9410.

Institute’s M.A. in Learning and Thinking, a unique opportunity to travel abroad and earn a Masters degree. 171 Amity Rd. Bethany. 203.874.4252. Energy Healing for Everyone 7-9pm w/ JoAnn Duncan, MS, RMT, and Deana Paqua, MA, LMT. Learn how to reduce stress, tension and pain, and feel more focused and calm. Free. CT Center for Change. 38 B Grove St., 2nd fl. Ridgefield. 203.431.9582.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 9 Mastering Manifestations ~ Create Your Abundant Life 7:30-9pm w/ Roberta Russell. Step into one’s true power now. Learn basic and advanced Law of Attraction skills. $20. Move2wellness. 635 Danbury Rd. Ridgefield. 203.403.2522.

SATURDAY, MAY 12 Teen: Friendship Bracelet Workshop 2pm. Learn from patterns & each other as one create’s friendship bracelets to keep or share with friends. Materials provided. Middle school & up. Westport Library, McManus Room. Free. 203.291.4809.

TUESDAY, MAY 15 Free Information Session 5:30-7pm. Learn about the Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership, a unique approach to leadership grounded in personal transformation. The Graduate Institute. 171 Amity Rd. Bethany. 203.874.4252.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 16 Gardening in Deer Country 9:30am. Alison Wachstein, Master Gardener and photographer will discuss how to outsmart deer and live peacefully with them in the garden. Trinity Episcopal Church. Southport. Jean Moffitt: 203.374.1242. Prevention, Balance and Fall Program 11am12pm w/ Grace on the Floor. Move with balance, improve performance in daily activities and prevent falls. Walkers & canes welcome. Free. Move2wellness Massage Therapy and Wellness Center. Ridgefield. 203.403. 2522. Free Information Session 4-5:30 pm. Learn about The Graduate Institute’s Master of Arts in Learning and Thinking. Wesleyan University, Fisk Hall Room 413. Call: 203.874.4252.

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May 2012

MONDAY, MAY 21 Play and Tea Open Day 1-2pm. Sip tea and talk with teachers while children play in Waldorfinspired classroom. Mixed-Age Kindergarten and Growing Together. The Clover Hill School at Christ Episcopal Church. Norwalk. RSVP Sarah: 203.661.6484.

TUESDAY, MAY 22 Free Information Session 4-5:30pm. Learn about the new Cultural Cohort in The Graduate Institute’s M.A. in Learning and Thinking, a unique opportunity to travel abroad and earn a Masters degree. 171 Amity Rd. Bethany. 203.874.4252.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 23 EFT ~ Your Personal Power Tool 7:30-9pm w/ Roberta Russell. Learn an easy way to relieve pain, anger, stress, anxiety and release limiting beliefs that keep one stuck. $20. Move2wellness. 635 Danbury Rd. Ridgefield. 203.403.2522.

THURSDAY, MAY 24 Intro to Reiki 7:30-9:15pm. Dr. Oz recommends Reiki. Receive a mini-Reiki session. Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher. $10. Angelic Healing Center. 7 Morgan Ave. Norwalk. Must pre-register: 203.852.1150.

THURSDAY, MAY 25

-importance, types, warnings, safety and how to get started. Participants receive a Complimentary Evaluation. Free. Jewish Community Center. Stamford. RSVP: 203.559.8946.

SATURDAY, MAY 26 Healing Circle 6-7pm. Chant a simple healing mantra followed by a live gong meditation with healing intentions. Dress comfortably. Free. Yoga for Everybody. 27 Unquowa Rd. Fairfield. 203.254.9642.

TUESDAY, MAY 29 Snatam Kaur Concert One of the most popular New Age artists of our time, selling over 70,000 albums a year. Snatam Kaur’s albums have topped New Age Retailer’s Top 20 lists every year since 2004. Bryan Memorial Town Hall. Washington Depot, CT. Tickets: 860.482.9076.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 30 Shamanic Training 7pm w/ Melissa Merendino. The Medicine Wheels of Native Peoples are places to pray, meditate and strengthen one’s connection to Mother Earth. Pre-register $35/door $40. Move2wellness Massage Therapy and Wellness Center. Ridgefield. 203.403. 2522.

SATURDAY, JUNE 2 Chanting uncovers the happiness, beauty, and love inside of us. It shows us that we have that already. Charles Ives Hall, 181 White St. Danbury. Tickets: 203.837.8499. Krishna Das Concert

Detox Diets 6:30-8pm. In Spanish w/ Eliana Grübel, C.H.C., Certified Health Counselor. Discover

Sacred Pipe, Chanupa, Gratitude & Prayer

7-9:30pm. Free. Part of a 2-day (6/2-6/3) teaching circle presented by Sanctuaries of the Earth Mother – inquire for details. Sticks and Stones Farm, 201 Huntingtown Rd. Newtown. Register: 505.757.3429.

SUNDAY, JUNE 3 Northeast Birth 2012 10am-5pm. Featuring Barbara Marx Hubbard, world renowned Evolutionary futurist: A Prophetic Call for a Planetary Shift. Also featuring Oscar MiroQuesada Solevo: Pachakuti Mesa Tradition of cross-cultural shamanism, and Ron & Victoria Friedman of Vistar Foundation. Wainwright House, 260 Stuyvesant Ave. Rye, NY. 914.967.6080.

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sunday Choosing Joy Allison Spitzer, Expressive Therapeutic Coach. Re-charge, renew, & refresh your relationships and your outlook. Engaging, creative activities and dialogue. By appointment: $50/couple. Periwinkle Health. Trumbull. 203.261.7615. Affordable Yoga 8:30am. Tired of feeling tired, stressed or out of shape? Give yoga a try and see why so many people are hooked. Lose weight, reduce pain, lower blood pressure. Cost. 8/$80. Interplay Health. Stamford. 203.845.8856. Interfaith Service Gathering and Fellowship 10am-12pm. Explore and celebrate life, love, spirituality, healing and community. My Little Light children’s program available while parents attend gathering. All are welcome! Love offering/Donation. ARC Sacred Center. Monroe. 203.268.1272. Reiki Practitioners needed any/every Sunday 10am-12pm. ReikiOvertones held at Home for the Elderly. Fairfield. For more info call Jeannette or Jim: 203.254.3958. Celebration Service 10:30am w/ Rev. Shawn Moninger. Inspiring message. Great music. Come early for Dynamics for Living study at 9:30 am. Unity Center 3 Main St above Ford Dealership Norwalk 203.855.7922. 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. Taoist Qi Gong and Chen Style Tai Ji 3pm w/ Master Wanf Feng Ming. 4-90 minute classes/ $100. 1018 Hope St. Stamford. Please contact Luis: 203.570.1752. Lecture or Workshop with Mystic Birinder Bhullar 4-6pm. Topics: Happiness, Karma, Sex, Money, Energy, Relationships, etc. Deep meditation work also presented. Birinder is a Sufi Messenger of Truth. $40. Ananda Center. New Canaan. Call Anne: 203.273.7364. 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.

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. Qigong Class 9-:30-10:30am w/ Julie Moffat. Qigong combines self-massage and gentle movement with relaxed breathing and meditation to energize and revitalize the body. $25/ Drop-in. Sabita Holistic Center. 3519 Post Rd. Southport. 203.254.2633. Children’s Expression Sessions 4:15-5:15p.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. The Thought Exchange 7pm w/ David Friedman. A spiritual support group based on observing the thought/sensation connection to manifestation What if one’s life just mirrors one’s thoughts? Love offering. Unity Center 3 Main St above Ford Dealership Norwalk 203.855.7922 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. Reiki Shares w/Jo Ann Duncan of Turning Point Reiki 7:30-9:30pm. Last Mon. of each month. For all those interested in practicing Reiki on others in a group setting. $15. Ridgefield. RSVP: 203.438.3050. Gentle Yoga 7:30pm. Also held on Wed. Beginners welcome. Pass also good for Sunday 8:30am class. 8 classes for $80 or $12 per class. JazzerciseFitness Center. 633 Hope St. Stamford. 203.845.8856. Affordable Yoga 7:30pm. Tired of feeling tired, stressed or out of shape? Give yoga a try and see why so many people are hooked. Lose weight, reduce pain, lower blood pressure. Cost. 8/$80. Interplay Health. 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 Gentle Yoga 7:15am. Also held on Thurs. Beginners welcome. Pass also good for Sunday 8:30am class. 8 classes for $80 or $12 per class. JazzerciseFitness Center. 633 Hope St. Stamford. 203.845.8856. Summer Expression Sessions! Allison Spitzer, Expressive Therapeutic Coach Creative arts workshops. Children’s self esteem blooms through imaginative, no-pressure projects and activities. Ages 9-12 By appointment: $35/session Periwinkle Health. Trumbull. 203.261.7615. Women’s Karate Class 9:30-10:30am. June Fagan teaches Kempo Karate to women of all ages. No experience required. $20. Kindred Spirits. 59 Ledgewood Rd. Redding. 203.938.3690. Yoga on Summer 12:30-1:30pm. Also held Thursday. Create balance, relaxation, flexibility, strength, and flow in one’s body and life. Mixed Level Vinyasa Yoga in an open, relaxing dance studio. 4/ $60; $17 drop-in. Downtown Stamford. 914.393.9221. 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. Hatha Vinyasa Yoga 6-7pm. Non denominational. Open level. All are welcome. $15. Lounge. First Presbyterian Church, 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. Locations vary, call 203.536.4695. HEAL Support Circle 6:30-8pm. 3rd Tuesday monthly. A peer-support group led by trained co-facilitators 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.

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May 2012

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. Reiki Healing Shares 7:30pm. 1 & 3rd Tuesdays. Gigi Benanti Usui/Karuna Reiki Master/Teacher For Reiki Practitioners only. Exchange ongoing since 1996. Instructions included $10. Held at Angelic Healing Center. 7 Morgan Ave. Norwalk pre-register: 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. Reiki Shares w/Jo Ann Duncan of Turning Point Reiki 7:30-9:30pm. 2nd Tues. of each month. For all those interested in practicing Reiki on others in a group setting. $15. Ridgefield. RSVP: 203.438.3050.

wednesday 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. Mood Massage: Expressive Arts Therapy Allison Spitzer, Expressive Therapeutic Coach Simple, playful activities for one’s health, growth, change. Stretch, visualize, reflect. Women and teens. By appointment: $25/session. Periwinkle Health. Trumbull. 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. Healthy Cooking Basics Class In Spanish 6:308pm w/ Eliana Grübel, Certified Health Counselor. Learn different food prep topics weekly. Host a class at home and get the fee waived and a complimentary consultation. Stamford Area. Register: 203.559.8946. Course in Miracles 12pm w/ Joan Goss formerly of Unity. The Course is a self-study curriculum which aims to assist its readers in achieving spiritual transformation. Westport Therapeutic. 37 Franklin St. Westport. 203.921.8654. 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.

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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. Mindfulness and Healing 5:45-7pm. Beginner’s mind, patience, acceptance, let go, let be, serenity is not freedom from the storm it is peace amidst the storm. Paul Epstein, ND. $25. Shamatha Yoga. 838 High Ridge Rd. Stamford. 203.722.2358. 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. 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. A Course in Miracles 7pm w/ Rev. Shawn. Learning to apply ACIM practically in our lives, coordinating with the universal principles of Unity. Love offering. Unity Center. 3 Main St above Ford Dealership. Norwalk. 203.855.7922 Reiki Share for Practitioners 6:30-8:30pm. Starts 9/7/11. 1st Wednesday monthly w/ Tracy Mignone and June Fagan. Practitioners share experiences and practice the healing modality. $10 Donation. Kindred Spirits. 59 Ledgewood Rd. Redding. 203.938.3690. Reservation required. Intro to Feldenkrais classes 6:30pm. 1 hour. 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. 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. Mastering Manifestations 7:30-9pm w/Roberta Russell. 2nd and 4th Wednesdays. Confused? Frustrated? Learn basic and advanced Law of Attraction skills for more money, happiness, better health and relationships. Come to one or all classes. Fee: $20 per class. Move2Wellness, 635 Danbury Rd. Ridgefield. Call to register: 203.403.2522.

thursday 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. Gentle Hatha Yoga 6-7:15pm. Non denominational. Beginners welcome. $15. First Presbyterian Church,1101 Bedford St. Stamford. Info: 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. 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. Angelic Healing Group 7-9pm. 1st & 3rd Thurs. Through hands-on healing, inspirational readings and prayer, a powerful presence of Spirit and Light Beings will infuse your energy body with Divine Light. Ridgefield, $20. Carol Essig: 203.438.4893. Sound Healing Group 7-9pm. 2nd Thurs monthly. Using our voice (toning), chanting, Tibetan bowls and more, we will bring/keep our physical body in balance and wholeness. No singing or musical experience necessary. Ridgefield. $20. Carol Essig: 203.438.4893. A Brush with Soul 7-9pm w/ Alexandra Philippas. 2nd Thurs monthly. Healing with color: Intuitive painting-meditation allowing stillness and insights to surface while observing one’s Soul’s creative expression. Love Offering. Unity Center. Norwalk. 203.855.7922. Groaning Grads, Worried Moms ‘n Dads 7:308:15pm. When coming home is the only choice. Communication strategies. Proactive planning. Weekly support group for parents. Free. Trumbull. Allison B. Spitzer, MA: 203.261.7615. Women’s Sacred Circle 7:30-9pm w/ Rev Chris Guerrera. 4th Thurs monthly. Share, connect, explore, play, and heal in a sacred space. $25. ARC Sacred Center. 458 Monroe Turnpike. Monroe. 203.268.1272.

friday Mildly Miserable Fun for the Fed-Up, Fat, or Cranky! Allison Spitzer, M.A, Expressive Therapeutic Coach Regardless of one’s aches, size, or age, enjoy easy, playful creative activities to soothe body and spirit. No sweat, no worries. By appointment. $25/session. Periwinkle Health. Trumbull, 203.261.7615. Tai Chi and Qi Gong Classes For Health and Rejuvenation 9am. $15. Wudang Tai Chi of Stamford. 414 West Main St. Please contact Luis: 203.570.1752. Reiki Shares w/Jo Ann Duncan of Turning Point Reiki 9:30-11:30am. 1st or 2nd Fri. of each month. For all those interested in practicing Reiki on others in a group setting. $15. Ridgefield. RSVP: 203.438.3050. Nutritional Evaluation Visits 10am w/ Debi Greco, MD. Free. 31 Hawleyville Rd. Hawleyville/Newtown. Call to schedule appointment: 203.798.8114. Metaphysical Bible Study 7-8:30pm. In depth study of the Bible’s metaphysical aspects with Bible scholar Rev. Ed Townley. Bring questions! Unity Center for Practical Spirituality. 3 Main St., 2nd Fl. Above Ford Dealership. Norwalk. Love Offering. 203.855.7922.

Drumming Circle 7-9pm. 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. Spiritual Junkies Movie Night 7-10pm. 1st Friday monthly. New movie ever month. $6. ARC Sacred Center. Monroe. 203.268.1272. Circle of Life 7:30pm. 4th Friday monthly. Wondering what one’s Life Mission is? Ginny Brown explores: love, trust, permission, and forgiveness as tools in navigating through life’s opportunities, losses and changes. $28. Monroe. 203.268.3262. Teen Connections 7:30-9pm. Bi-monthly. A safe place to hang out and have fun while getting to know others! A place where one’s questions and opinions are taken seriously. $10. ARC Sacred Center. 458 Monroe Turnpike. Monroe. 617.930.1243.

saturday 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. 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. Fundamental Healer Class: Become a Healer 8:30-10:30am. 2nd & 4th Sat. monthly. Four month course in Chi cultivation and direction through the art of Qi-Gong, a traditional path to vitality and balance. Move2wellness. Ridgefield. 203.403.2522. Latin Dance 10am w/ Maria Fiora. Fun workshop for relaxation from the week and to get your weekend going. 201 Summer St. Downtown Stamford. 203.353.4363. Power Vinyasa Yoga 10-11am. Non denominational. Intermediate level. $15. First Presbyterian Church, 1101 Bedford St. Stamford. Info: 203.550.8811.

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 HEALTH & WELLNESS PUBLICATION FOR SALE Well established and profitable. Excellent demographics and great potential for multi-channel growth. Complete training provided. Turn your passion for healthy living into a career! 917.273.4809.

HELP WANTED COLONIC THERAPIST WANTED. Woods Gravity Method Trained or interested in being certified.Great pay. Full and/or Part Time. Flexible Hours. Email: internalhygiene@gmail.com or call 203.524.2888. SALES PEOPLE WANTED! Part time, flexible hours working from home when not on sales calls. Must have ad sales experience. Relationshiporiented sales; must like talking to people. Call Carolyn at 203.885.4674. VIOLIN TEACHERS WANTED AT THE LITTLE RED SCHOOL OF ART & MUSIC. 2979 Main Street, Stratford. Piano and vocal instructors. 203.375.0692. Carolyn West, Owner.

NATURAL AWAKENINGS NETWORK (NAN) SALES MANAGER WANTED to sell innovative wellness discount program to companies & organizations. Lucrative ground floor opportunity. Corporate sales experience preferred. Flexible hours, work from home when not on sales calls. Full or Part-time. Excellent commission + draw. Fairfield County. Call 203.885.4674.

Health Food Store Tours in Spanish 10-11:30am w/ Eliana Grübel, Certified Health Counselor. Learn about healthy foods, gluten-free products, dairy alternatives. Receive a CD w/notes, recipes and foods to consider avoiding. $25. Stamford Area. Register: 203.559.8946. Intro to Feldenkrais Classes 10:30am. 1 hour. 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. Psychic Fair 12-4pm. 1st Sat monthly. Come enjoy one of the many psychics. Mediumship, Tarot, Astrology readings available $30 each. 293 Sound Beach Ave. Old Greenwich. 914.909.0914. 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.

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May 2012

communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide (CRG) in print and online email FFCadvertising@naturalawakeningsmag.com to request our advertising rates. ACUPUNCTURE

BREAST THERMOGRAPHY

INGRI BOE-WIEGAARD, LAc  Fairfield, Wilton, Bethel 203.259.1660 CTacupuncture.com 25 year full time practice

SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER

LIFE SOLUTIONS COACHING

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.

Live the life you want. Live the life you DESERVE. Break old patterns of thinking and acting and open yourself to less stressful living, stronger and closer relationships, and a sense of meaning and purpose in your personal and work life. Liz has helped many people live a fulfilling life – let her help you too. Complimentary first session. Budget-friendly plans.

31 Old Rt. 7, Brookfield CT 203.740.9300 SophiaNaturalHealth.com

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 43.

ALLERGIES

X TO RAYS.COM

BIOSET ALLERGY ELIMINATION PROGRAM

Dr. Mark Joachim Advanced Certified Practitioner 156 East Avenue, Norwalk 203.838.1555 AllergyEliminationNorwalk.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 8.

AROMATHERAPY YOUNG LIVING ESSENTAIL OILS

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.

ARLENE S. POWERS

State Licensed Daycare Provider Spiritual Counselor/Minister Fairfield 203.292.3017 Powersrere@optonline.net With 25 years experience, Arlene understands the need for holistic care for every child’s mind, body and spirit. Homemade juicing, organic cooking, compassion based play at her in-home daycare. See ad pg 24.

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.

111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203.967.8888 CtSpineHealth.com

Ayurveda & Life Style Management 203.857.4123 ActiveAyurveda.com jmdaptardar@hotmail.com Jaya is an Ayurvedic specialist with 20 years experience. She offers life style management, other Ayurvedic counseling, Ayurvedic cooking and educational classes by appointment only.

Fairfield County Edition

CHIROPRACTIC SCOTT BENDER, DC

DR. JAYA DAPTARDAR

Liz Carey, MS Leadership-Connections.com 845.225.5192

COLONICS AN EVER CLEAN LIFE

Colon Hydrotherapy/Colonics Gentle, safe, effective colon cleansing 203.542.7822 EverCleanColonics.com Starting a cleanse or detox, trying to lose weight or just getting ready to clean up? Colonics are a great complement to any program.

CHILD CARE

Cris Ann Mulreed 203.216.8413 pathfollowers@gmail.com

AYURVEDA

COACHING

Dr. Bender is Board Certified in the Atlas Orthogonal Procedure, a gentle method for the detection, and correction of misalignments of the Upper Cervical Spine. He is also a founding member of the Trauma Imaging Foundation, a non-profit multispecialty physician group dedicated to the accurate diagnosis, and treatment of Brain, and Spinal Trauma. See ad pg 63.

natural awakenings

COLONICS COLONICS AT LIFELINE HYGIENICS REJUVENATION CENTER

Since 1993, Rye, NY 914.921.LIFE (5433) LifelineHygienics.com Now offering personalized cleanse programs, as well as our personalized colonics, since 1993. Rejuvenation at its best! See ad pg 29.

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

Experience relief from congestion and discover a greater sense of well est. 1996 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 52.

Greenwich Colon Hydrotherapy

COLONICS WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC Fairfield/Trumbull town line 203.371.8258 WholeBodyMed.com

Ready to start feeling healthier? Take your first step with this gentle cleansing procedure. Watch our colonic and detoxification videos on our new video website located at WholeBodyMed.com Call for Free CD on Detoxification. See ad pg 2.

COUNSELING KELLEY HOPKINS-ALVAREZ, MS, MSED, NCC Solution-Focused Counseling Ridgefield CT 203.948.0938 KelleyHopkinsAlvarez.com

I am a board certified counselor, and know that making that first call to a counselor can be tough. I value your time and will work hard with you to bring about change at a manageable cost.

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY VINCENT FRASER

Craniosacral Therapy & Alexander Technique Greenwich and Westport 203.570.2059 VincentFraser.com Craniosacral Therapy releases compressions and restrictions in the body-mind, supporting contact with your Inner Wisdom while releasing pain such as headaches, TMJ, back and neck pain. See ad pg 26.

EEG NEUROFEEDBACK

FAMILY SERVICES

ROSEANN CAPANNA-HODGE, EdD, LPC, LLC 898 Ethan Allen Highway, Suite 6 Ridgefield, CT 06877 203.438.4848 DrRoseann.com

Looking for an alterative to medication to help yourself or your child? EEG Neurofeedback is a safe, valid and research-based alternative to medication. Neurofeedback helps those with ADHD, Asperger’s, Autism, Traumatic Brain Injury, Sports-related Concussion, Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Mood Disorder, Learning Disability and other conditions.

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC

40 Dodgingtown Road, Newtown 203.364.1113 WaldorfCT.org We develop each child’s unique capacity to engage meaningfully in the world by integrating experiential and artistic learning, academic excellence, respect for diversity, and reverence for nature. See ad pg 12.

RIDLEY-LOWELL BUSINESS & TECHNICAL INSTITUTE 44 Shelter Rock Rd, Danbury 203.797.0551

Accredited institution offering skilled training in the following fields: Massage Therapy, Medical Assisting, Medical Admin Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, Information Technology and Electrical Systems Technician; day/evening classes, Financial Aid (if eligible), free placement assistance. See ad pg 43.

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

anxiety.

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

GREEN LIVING CUSTOM SLEEP DESIGN, LLC

Adam Breiner, ND, Director Fairfield/Trumbull town line 203.371.8258 WholeBodyMed.com

57 Main Street, 2nd Fl. Westport, CT 203.227.7900 CustomSleepDesign.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 2.

ENERGY HEALING DEANA PAQUA, MA, LMT  Ridgefield, CT   203.994.5045 EmbodyTheSacred.net

Blissful bodywork in a sacred space. Holistic massage, Reiki and shamanic healing for pain, trauma and stress relief.

CSD has developed a revolutionary process that designs a mattress specific to your body characteristics using natural foam and organic covers. Visit our showroom to learn more.

GREEN LIVING

Damp Basement Solutions LLC EZ-Breathe Home Ventilation System 203.422.9751 DampBasementSolutions.com EZ-Breath replaces traditional dehu midifiers ensuring clean, fresh air flow throughout the home. Removes moisture, mold, allergens, radon, pet dander, and dust mites using less energy than a 40 watt light bulb. Call for a no obligation consultation.

NICHOLAS BORRELL DESIGNS

EDUCATION HOUSATONIC VALLEY WALDORF SCHOOL

HEALING STEPS

Nicholas Borrell, BA, CHt 131 Ramapoo Road, Ridgefield, CT 06877 203.438.7660 NicholasBorrellDesigns.com

FAMILY SERVICES ALLISON B. SPITZER, MA

Expressive Therapeutic Coaching 203.261.7615 PeriwinkleHealth.com Children, teens, adults 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 31.

THE HEALING HOME – In concert with profound intuitive, compassion-based healing and feng shui principles, builder Nicholas Borrell creates an opportunity to change your life by changing the space you live in. See ad pg 52.

HEALING CENTER REV. CHRISTINE GUERRERA, LMFT Psychotherapist, Interfaith Minister ARC Sacred Center, Monroe 203.268.1272 ARCSacredCenter.org

Chris is a licensed psychotherapist and inter-spiritual teacher offering psycho-spiritual therapy and sacred ceremonies such as baby blessings, weddings, interfaith gatherings and healing workshops. See ad pg 24.

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May 2012

HOLISTIC BEAUTY

HYPNOSIS

CAROL MOBILIO

Dr. Hauschka Esthetician and Electrologist Westport Therapeutic 203.685.3298 37 Franklin Street, Westport

MELANIE BARNUM, CH

Hypnotist, Life Coach, Intuitive Counselor Author, Reflexologist 203.451.0914 MelanieBarnum.com

Carol Mobilio offers personalized signature facials and electrolysis at a Dr. Hauschka premier authorized treatment center. Experience your skin transform to a state of balance and beauty.

HOLISTIC DENTIST

MIND BODY TRANSFORMATION HYPNOSIS

Diane Bahr-Groth, CHy, TFTdx 1177 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203.595.0110 MindBodyTransformation.com

LEONARD KUNDEL, DMD

1250 Summer Street, Stamford 203.487.6020 StamfordDentist.com

in your life.

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

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 2..

HOLISTIC NURSE INTANDEM WELLNESS

Linda Russell-Getz, RN, BSN, MS   34 Imperial Avenue, Westport  203.767.5962 InTandemWellness.com Partner with me to manage stress, pain, or chronic disease. Balance will be achieved by combining Eastern and Western traditional healing with effective nursing interventions.

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Create a life you love! Unique individual and group sessions, ongoing workshops. Connect to your future! Be the person you want to be!

Fast, effective methods for weight, stress, fear, pain, smoking, etc.  Certified Hypnotherapist, Thought Field Therapy™, Time Line Therapy™, NLP and Complementary Medical Hypnosis, since 1989. See ad pg 5.

INTEGRATIVE OPTOMETRY DR. RANDY SCHULMAN, MS, OD, FCOVD Behavioral Optometrist Norwalk: 203.840.1991 vtotWorks.com VisionworksVT@aol.com Trumbull: 203.268.8852 TLTC.org Schulman@tltc.org

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.

INTERFAITH MINISTRY REV. KAREN S. JUDD, LCSW

Counselor • USUI Reiki Master ReverendKarenSJudd.com Office: Bethel, CT 203.545.3664

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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.

INTUITIVE GUIDE JOAN CARRA

Psychic Medium Greenwich, CT 203.531.6387 PsychicJoanCarra.com PsychicJoanCarra@PsychicJoanCarra.com Joan guides you on your path drawing on her intuitive powers. As a medium, she can bring to life, friends on the other side. She is recognized by the books The 100 Top Psychics in America and Files from the Edge.

LIFE COACH JULIE BOWES, CERTIFIED LIFE COACH Holistic Life & Soul Coaching Energetic Restoration Consultant 203.240.4397 JewelTreeOfLife.com

Implement your internal guidance and innate wisdom through Holistic Soul Coaching. Illumine your mind, body & spirit by dissolving emotional debris to allow wellbeing. See ad pg 36.

TOM FRENCH COACHING

Certified Master Practitioner & Trainer   NLP and Time Line Therapy   203.451.0737 Tom@TomFrenchCoaching.com Take the brake off your life! No more procrastination! No more corrosive anger! No more paralyzing self-doubt. Get rid of your obstacles. Become clear about your purpose and focused on what you want. Special offer for new clients: 50% discount plus your first session free!

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 30.

MASSAGE & BODYWORK

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN DEBRA GIBSON, ND

SOULAURAS

Laura Giacovas 722 Danbury Road Ridgefield CT 06877 914.941.2400 914.424.5795 Soulauras.com Enhancing wellness and quality of life through massage therapy and integrated holistic healing with generosity of time, heart and spirit.

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 47.

MICHAEL E. DOYLE, MD

Conventional & Alternative Medicine 22 5th St Suite 201 Stamford, CT 06905. 203.324.4747 GoToDrDoyle.com Specializing in Natural and Alternative approaches to restoring health. Focusing on underlying causes of illness. Hypothyroidism, hormonal imbalances, nutrition and much more. See ad pg 4.

RIVERSIDE OB/GYN

Russell Turk, MD Karen Zino, MD 1200 East Putnam Avenue Riverside, CT 06878 203.637.3337 Riverside Obstetrics & Gynecology is a fullservice 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 5.

NATURAL HEALTHCARE WORDEN WELLNESS CENTER

41 Kenosia Ave, Danbury 203.748.8093 WordenChiropractic.MetaeHealth.com Combining natural health treatments, chiropractic, acupuncture, and nutrition to relieve pain and restore the body to optimal health and balance. See ad pg 36.

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN 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 30.

INTEGRATED HEALTH CENTER

K. Pramila Vishvanath, ND Mark R. Sanders, ND 2324 Post Rd, Fairfield 203.259.2700 IntegratedHealthCenterOnline.com Serving Fairfield County for 20 years. Specializing in craniosacral therapy, classical homeopathy, allergy assessment and treatment, nutrition, weight management, body reshaping and skin tightening, detox, colonics, breast thermography. See ad pg 43.

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 Detoxification Protocols, Electro-Dermal Screening, Energy Medicine, FDA-cleared Phototherapy, Functional Medicine, Herbal Medicine, Homeopathy, Hormonal Balancing, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Metabolic Typing, Nutritional Assessment, RealTime EEG Neurofeedback, and other therapies. See ad pg 2.

1300 Post Road East, Westport 203.255.5005 BigAppleHealth.com

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

NORTHEAST NATURAL MEDICINE, LLC Shawn M. Carney, ND 33 Main St. Suite 15 Newtown, CT 1.800.723.2962 NortheastNatMed.com

Integrative naturopathic medicine clinic and therapeutic massage center for the whole family. Services include advanced diagnostic testing, detoxification programs, personalized nutrition, and botanicals. Insurance accepted.

WELLNESS INSTITUTE

Marvin P. Schweitzer, ND 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203.847.2788 DrMarvinSchweitzer.com Family Health Care using all natural therapies for 25 years. Acupuncture, Bio-Identical H o r m o n e s , H o m e o p a t h y, Chinese/Western Herbs, Allergy/ Toxin Testing, Oxygen Therapy, Meridian Stress Assessment, Nutrition/Enzyme Therapies. See ad pg 12.

NUTRITION MARY MAY

Chopra Certified Ayurveda Instructor Food Coach Institute of Culinary Education graduate 203.912.1656 MaryMayCT@gmail.com Toxic? Symptoms: Overweight, fatigue, headaches, digestive problems, anxiety. Solution: easy, 100% pure, gentle yet deep tissue cleanse/detox. Benefits: weight loss, better digestion, improved sense of well-being and balanced body.

OSTEOPATHIC PHYSICIAN OSTEOPATHIC WELLNESS CENTER, LLC

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

Gentle, natural, hands-on osteopathic medical care for infants, children & adults. Children’s health and development, birth trauma, musculoskeletal pain and injuries, nutrition and wellness counseling, stress reduction, immune support, allergies. Most major insurances accepted.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

May 2012

PERSONAL CHEF

PSYCHOTHERAPY

CHEF ELY GRÜBEL

Licensed - Insured 203.559.8946 ElyGrubel@gmail.com PersonalChefServiceByElyGrubel.com Over 8 years experience providing personalized in-home healthy meals prep and freezing. Trained by United States Personal Chef Association at Culinary Business Academy and by Institute for Integrative Nutrition. See ad pg 16.

PET CARE

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 self-discovery integrating psychology, Eastern medicine and spirituality to heal suffering from traumatic stress related to chronic illness, disabilities, abuse & PTSD.

LILA TAYLOR, LMFT

OLIVER’S PLACE

102 Old Ridgefield Rd, Wilton OliversPlaceLLC.com 203.210.5441 OliversPlaceLLC@gmail.com

Conscious Psychotherapy Soul Psychology Office in Fairfield County 203.783.3069 LilaTaylor.com Holistic, traditional, compassionate and spiritual approaches for self-healing from separations, transitions, childhood wounds, depression and loss. Discover inner resources, renewed purpose and reclaim your true Self.

Oliver’s Place offers holistic & natural foods and treats with balanced nutrition encouraging growth, healthy skin/coast and support of your pet’s immune system throughout their life. See ad pg 45.

MARIA C. CASTILLO, MSW, LCSW

PHYSICAL THERAPY PHYSICAL THERAPY OF SOUTHERN CT Linda Maude, PT 917 Bridgeport Ave, Shelton CT 06484 203.926.6997 PhysicalTherapySoCT.com

Specializing in evaluation & treatment of musculoskeletal imbalance & injuries. Results achieved that traditional physical therapy may not. Therapeutic approaches such as manual therapy, cranialsacral, visceral manipulation and vestibular rehab. State of the art facility for strengthening & overall rehabilitation.

POOLS & SPAS - NATURAL BELL ISLAND LIVING

Keith Garner, SP-1  25 Old Kings Highway North, Unit 13  Darien, CT 203.952.8011  KeithGarner4@hotmail.com Deep experience in both alternative and conventional pool technology. Service, repairs or complete pool rebuild. Pool water Soft-as-Silk with our legendary chlorinefree systems, “noiseless” pumps, solar heat pumps, pool safety systems. And virtually all aspects of Pools & Spas. Licensed/ Insured.

Fairfield County Edition

238 Monroe Tpke. Suite B Monroe, CT 06468 203.445.8966 LifeBetweenLivesTherapy.com Msisi@AOL.com Past Life Regression, trained by Brian Weiss, MD. Life Between Lives Hypnotherapy, trained by TNI and Michael Newton, PhD. Traditional psychotherapy with a spiritual approach; Reiki. Connect with your soul self and let your inner wisdom guide you.

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.

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, IET and Reconnective Healing sessions. Specializing in care for individuals with Cancer, Lyme disease and Back Pain. All Reiki levels taught.

RELATIONSHIP COACH PEAK RESULTS COACHING Jeff Forte CSIC CME 2389 Main St. 860.633.8555 Glastonbury, CT PeakResultsCoaching.com

Do you want a more fulfilling marriage but don’t know what to do? Are you feeling stuck in a relationship that seems doomed to fail? I will show you step by step exactly what to do to create the love and connection you want in your relationship. I am a Certified Marriage Educator, and clients frequently come to me when nothing else seems to work or when something must change now. Call today because you deserve more.

WORKSHOPS

ROBIN ORDAN, LCSW

PROMINDFUL, INC.

Robin has over 18 years of experience working with families and children. Specializing in Divorce, Parent/Child Conflict, Grief, Attachment /Bonding, Child Development and Parenting. See ad pg 29.

ProMindful is a non-profit o rg a n i z a t i o n o ff e r i n g i n t egrative 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.

Family, Child, Individual & Couples Therapy Old Greenwich/Stamford, CT 203.561.8535; RobinOrdanLCSW.com

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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Stamford, CT, USA ProMindful.org 203.274.6024

If You’re in Pain, You Don’t Have to Suffer Anymore Dr. Scott Bender will be hosting a free lecture introducing a highly effective, painless, non-surgical solution for Fibromyalgia, Chronic Pain, and Brain Trauma injuries.

Dr. Bender specializes in the treatment of: Fibromyalgia Chronic Back Pain Chronic Fatigue Migraines Headaches Neck Pain TMJ Head Injuries & Brain Trauma

He will be discussing upcoming research by the Trauma Research Foundation and a recently published research paper in the Journal Brain Injury. In his research, he discusses a little known chiropractic procedure called Atlas Orthogonal that can give the promise of hope, and healing to chronic pain sufferers. Atlas spinal care is dedicated to correcting the Atlas Subluxation Complex, which is a misalignment of the bone structure of the head and neck. This misalignment can block the communication between your brain and body causing pain, stress, and tension. The Atlas Orthogonal procedure is an upper cervical spinal correction that restores body balance and increases the body’s natural healing ability - without forceful movements or twisting of the neck or back.

ATLAS

ORTHOGONAL

Painless • Safe Non-Surgical No Drugs or Side Effects

Attend a Free Lecture

Wednesday, May April 23rd 18th 6:30pm Wednesday, 6:30pm Learn how Dr. Scott Bender has helped hundreds of pain sufferers regain their health using the Atlas Orthogonal procedure. This lecture is limited to only those people that are Fibromyalgia, Chronic Pain, or Headache sufferers. If you qualify, please call 203.967.8888 to reserve a seat. Seating is limited. Refreshments served.

“ Thank you so much for caring enough and having the integrity to be the right kind of doctor that gets to the root cause. Without caring physicians who listen and aren’t satisfied with the status quo, people like me would go through life being misdiagnosed, put on a needless regimen of drugs, and be living a life of pain and frustration. You are a great doctor! ” - Fran Brennan

In 1997 Dr. Bender opened CT Spine and Health Center and 15 years later it’s the busiest Atlas Orthogonal office in the Northeast, attracting patients from all over the world. His office is a state of the art facility with the most advanced AO diagnostic equipment available.

CONNECTICUT SPINE AND HEALTH CENTER

If you’re in pain, call Dr. Bender today for a free consultation

UPPER CERVICAL HEALTHCARE

203.967.8888

111 High Ridge Road, Stamford, CT

For moreeNaturalAwakenings.com info: CtSpineHealth.com May 2012

Fairfield County Edition

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