Natural Awakenings Fairfield County November 2014

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

Herbal Teas

Personal Empowerment

Healing is a Cup Away

Strategies to Manifest the Life You Want

RFK Jr. on

Our Environmental Destiny

Happy Holidays for Pets

Sustaining Healthy Habits Holistic Self-Defense Midlife Motherhood

FI

NNI V E R S AR Y!

TA RS

Make Peace with Your Inner Critic

Section

November 2014 | Fairfield County Edition | eNaturalAwakenings.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2014

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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 2

Fairfield County Edition

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Healthy

Pizza & MoRe made with 100% Organic Whole Grain Flour ~ no exceptions ~

Savor Healthy Pizza

430 Main Ave (Rt 7) Norwalk, CT Across from the Merritt Professional Buildings

203-939-1666

Monday-Saturday 11am-9pm

Now taking orders on line!

www.savorhealthypizza.com

e at

healthy, natural & organic pizza you’ll savor every bite Now serving zero grain pizza crust!

Extremely low-carb

Ask About Our Homemade, Gluten-Free & Vegan Pizzas free local delivery with $ 15 min. order

h e a lt h y

2014 l 3 leNaturalAwakenings.com i v e wNovember e l

TARRYTOWN Sunday, November 23, 2014 from 10 am to 5 pm Double Tree by Hilton Hotel 455 South Broadway |Tarrytown, NY 10591

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contents 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.

20 POWERFUL YOU!

Six Ways to Create the Life You Want

by Judith Fertig

20

24 HONORING

YOUR SELF

The Heart and Soul

of Holistic Self-Defense

by Nina Antolino

28 SUSTAINING

HEALTHY HABITS

How to Support Lifestyle

...awaken to your best self…

Transformation

by Debra Gibson

Over 100 holistic & health exhibitors!

31 PRACTITIONER

Inspiring Speakers Gifted Healers Unique Vendors Intuitive Readers Tickets $10 online thru 11-22 or $15 at door Order tickets today @ www.AwakenFair.com

Pre-book Reader/Healer

A whole new kind of body-mind-spirit EXPO… friendly, gracious, inspiring, social, expansive nsor: dia Spo agazines e M r u O sM akening tural Aw

Na

AwakenFair.com 4

Fairfield County Edition

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PROFILES

41 HEALING IS JUST A CUP AWAY

by Kimberly DuBois

48 ROBERT F.

KENNEDY, JR. ON

Our Environmental Destiny

28

by Lisa Worth Huber

50 MIDLIFE MOTHERHOOD

One Pathway to a New

21st Century Family Model

by Cyma Shapiro

58 PLAYFUL PET GIFTS Animals Love Interactive Toys and Games

by Sandra Murphy

60 BREATH-TAKING

WISDOM

Six Ways to Inhale Energy and Exhale Stress

by Lane Vail

41 50

18 7 newsbriefs 16 healthbriefs 18 globalbriefs 31 practitionerprofiles 38 healingways 40 inspiredtable 58 46 foodiemarketplace 52 naturallyhealthypet 58 naturalpet 59 petresourceguide 60 fitbody 62 calendar 60 68 classifieds 69 resourceguide 74 displayadindex 74 holidaygiftguide advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 203-885-4674 or email FFCAdvertising@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

Deadline for ads: the 12th of the month.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com.

Deadline for News Briefs: the 12th of the month.

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com.

Deadline for magazine calendar listings: the 12th of the month. Website calendar listings may be entered at any time.

REGIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets!

Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-449-8309. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

WHY AN ORGANIC MATTRESS IS RIGHT FOR YOU

While we sleep, our immune system recovers and prepares for the day ahead. If your mattress is filled with airborne allergens and chemical toxins, your immune system will battle these rather than repair itself. Regular bedding & mattresses are laden with polyurethane foam, toxic flame retardants, and water or stain resistant chemicals.

Organic Innerspring Mattresses Our cotton innerspring mattresses are made with organic cotton batting and organic wool — free from chemicals and pesticides! Great for those who are chemically sensitive or allergic to latex. A good fit for families on a budget because an innerspring is generally less expensive than a latex mattress.

Natural Latex Organic Mattresses When it comes to latex there’s “natural” and then there’s “all natural”. We sell only “all natural” latex mattresses so you sleep chemical-free. Beware mattress stores online and in your neighborhood selling “natural” or “green” or “sustainable” foam mattresses.

This is “green wash” marketing hype.

FIND A HUGE SELECTION OF THE BEST ORGANIC MATTRESSES IN THE WORLD Queen$4398

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TheCleanBedroom TM

the World, all in one place Greenwich at 79 East Putnam Ave | 203.292.9275 Manhattan at 230 5th Ave | 212.889.1091 www.thecleanbedroom.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2014

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letterfrompublisher

D

o you remember what you wanted to be when you grew up? Did you see those early goals through or did life change them along the way as you matured? I knew in high school that I wanted to be a writer, but it took several careers—and decades—to actually realize that goal and then expand it to magazine publisher. It’s funny when I consider that some of the day-to-day logistics of what I do now are reminiscent of my first job after college. An editorial assistant working on telecommunications equipment magazines, Nicole Miale I liked the actual work of writing, editing and organizing, but the topic did not light my soul on fire. The content of Natural Awakenings does light my soul up, so the hours spent compiling these issues feel far more joyful and purposeful. The realization of a long-held goal with the intersection of meaning is empowering for me. I feel very fortunate to be doing what I do.

contact us Publisher/Managing Editor Nicole Miale Editor Ariana Rawls Fine Design & Production Kathleen Fellows Erica Mills

This month, we have dedicated a lot of editorial space to this topic of personal growth and empowerment. Even as a child, you may have had an inkling of what was best for you. As an adult, if you choose to, you can tap further into your essence and consciously manifest what holds meaning for you and your self. It may take small steps over a long time but there is no journey more worth your energy.

There are many tools available to support you in creating the life you really want.

We offer a sampling of them in this issue, including profiles of fantastic local practitioners ready to support you. Whatever you can dream, you can do.

Contributing Writers Donna Gleason Beth Leas Natasha Michaels Mary Oquendo Sales & Marketing Nicole Miale Francesca Moscatelli Virginia Trinque Distribution Man in Motion LLC Natural Awakenings Fairfield County 54 Danbury Rd, Ste 323 Ridgefield, CT 06877 Phone: 203-885-4674 Fax: 203-516-2392 NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com eNaturalAwakenings.com NAWebstore.com NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com © 2014 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.

Speaking of dream manifestation…one of my first “visions” as publisher was a monthly section devoted to pets. I’m proud and grateful to say this is the one-year anniversary of our Naturally Healthy Pet section! My gratitude goes to the advertisers and writers who make the section vital each month and my appreciation to the readers who show how much this section resonates for them.

In this month’s issue, we introduce our newest vision, Inspired Table. This monthly section is devoted to local food, drink, and the sustainable farms and producers creating the ingredients that may wind up on your table. We hope you like the new look and feel of our food section, which evolves from its original format.

Please let us know what you think!

My wish for you all is abundance, joy and blessings this holiday season. May you receive more than you need and take a moment each day to appreciate all you already have. To our amazing advertisers, contributors, staff and readers, I send a huge THANK YOU!! This community resource would not be possible without any and all of you. You are appreciated and loved.

With love and light,

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.

SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available by sending $30 (for 12 issues) to the above address.

Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soybased ink.

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Fairfield County Edition

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newsbriefs

6th Annual Greenwich Reindeer Festival & Santa’s Workshop

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llen Lewis, naturopathic physician and director of Shalva Clinic in Westport, is now offering cold laser therapy for pain management.

Cold laser therapy is an FDAapproved treatment that uses low or cold light to increase cellular energy in the body. It is a painless, non-invasive therapy used to address pain and inflammation. During the therapy, the body absorbs Ellen Lewis cold light that increases blood flow, improves circulation and enhances lymphatic flow, which stimulates cellular repair and healing in bone and soft tissue. Common conditions that benefit from cold laser therapy include chronic low back pain, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, hip pain, headaches and migraines, peripheral neuropathy and plantar fasciitis.

Shalva Clinic offers naturopathic medicine, holistic pelvic care, BowenWork, Reiki, massage therapy and lab therapy services in addition to educational opportunities.

An apothecary in the clinic offers supplements, homeopathic remedies, tinctures, flower essences and other products.

These are currently only available to clinic patients through online ordering or in-office pick-up.

To learn more or schedule an appointment, email DrLewis@ShalvaClinic.org or call 203-916-4600. Shalva Clinic is located at 260 Riverside Ave, Westport. See ad, page 49.

S

anta and his live reindeer—Dancer, Dasher, Prancer and Blitzen—are coming back to town for the 6th Annual Greenwich Reindeer Festival & Santa’s Workshop at McArdle’s Florist & Garden Center from November 28 to December 24. A welcoming We’re Back Party with refreshments, face painting and balloon artists will be held on November 28 from noon to 6pm.

The official opening and ribbon cutting will be attended by Courtney Kane of News 12 Connecticut while Santa’s Workshop, sponsored by Mercedes-Benz of Greenwich, will offer photo opportunities with Santa.

The reindeer will make McArdle’s their home until December 23, thanks to Reindeer Stable Sponsor, Pepsi. Feeding times will take place daily at 9 am and 4 pm.

At Santa’s Workshop, which will be open through Christmas Eve, photo packages begin at $29.99 and include a gift bag filled with promotions redeemable at participating downtown Greenwich stores. Everyone who has their photo taken can enter a raffle to win a Mercedes-Benz pedal car. Hours for the Photos with Santa are weekdays from noon to 6pm, Saturday from 9am to 6pm and Sunday from 9am to 5pm.

Throughout the festival, there will be a Kids in Crisis Giving Tree at McArdle’s. The Greenwich Reindeer Festival & Santa’s Workshop was created and is produced by TMK Sports & Entertainment, LLC.

For more details, visit GreenwichReindeerFestival.com.

McArdle’s Florist & Garden Center is located at 48 Arch St, Greenwich.

: Vibrosaun - Yoga - Massage - Organic Juice Bar Australia’s #1 Healing & Weightloss Machine Has Arrived!

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OPENING SOON!

Please See Our Grand-Opening Newsbrief in this issue!

eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2014

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photo courtesy Andrew DiCambio

Cold Laser Therapy Available at Shalva Clinic

newsbriefs

Awaken Wellness Fair Returns to Tarrytown

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Tom French Coaching Launches in Newtown

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om French Coaching has opened for business in Newtown and will offer sales coaching for independent professionals, entrepreneurs, salespeople and others. The approach focuses on fulfilling needs that relate directly to health and empowerment in multiple areas. Mentor coaching also helps clients focus on Tom French what is most important to them in their life by clarifying their values.

“I have experienced personally how life can be transformed through work and how as our results improve our life improves. My mission is to see people improve in whatever area is important to them,” French explains. “I know that as they feel better and see improved results at work, there is a carryover and their life gets better overall.”

A complimentary initial consultation is available to assess if French’s coaching method is a good fit for someone who may be interested.

For more information, email Tom@TomFrenchCoaching.com or visit TomFrenchCoaching.com.

estchester’s Awaken Wellness Fair is taking place on November 23 from 10 am to 5 pm in Tarrytown, New York. The body-mindspirit-green expo features over 100 exhibitors, healers, speakers and intuitives. The fair offers the latest info on being healthy in both traditional and non-traditional ways.

The fair includes speakers throughout the day with recordings of presentations available. Speakers include Dr. Donna Martuge, Diane Muenz Chen, Dr. Joseph Schippa and many others.

Holistic practitioners and intuitive readers will be available for sessions with fair attendees. After purchasing an online ticket, guests can pre-book appointments with the healers and readers at a discount.

The first 500 guests receive a goody bag with treats and special deals. Several vendor spots are still available.

Tickets are $10 per person online through November 22 at AwakenFair.com or $15 at the door. For more information, visit AwakenFair.com, email AwakenUSA@aol.com or call 914-422-1784. The Double Tree Hotel is located at 455 So. Broadway (Rte. 9), Tarrytown, NY. See ad, page 4.

Comfort, Not Chemicals Connecticutʼs Largest Organic Mattress Gallery

Starting at $1,099

Sometimes You Long For Something Thatʼs Truly Natural It May Be Closer Than You Think Every mattress in our Carpe Diem and Terra Bed Collections is made entirely by hand using only natural filling materials.

It is not the easiest way to build a bed, but the result is unparalleled comfort and support that is healthy enough for you and your children.

Visit one of our two Connecticut showrooms this month and receive a free natural pillow with this ad.

Norwalk 508 Main Avenue 203.846.2233 8

Fairfield County Edition

Stamford 55 High Ridge Road 203.323.1509

natural awakenings

A Klein Family Tradition Since 1947 www.organicsleep.com

The Clean Bedroom Celebrates 10th Anniversary

2014 Festival of Trees to Benefit Ann’s Place

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For more information on The Clean Bedroom’s 10th Anniversary deals, or to enter the giveaway, visit a local sleep showroom or TheCleanBedroom.com, or call 866-380-5892. The Clean Bedroom Greenwich showroom is located at 79 East Putnam Ave, Greenwich. See ad, page 5.

Entry is $10 for adults and $5 for children and seniors, children under 5 enter for free. To reserve a kick-off, tea spot or Lego entry, visit AnnsPlace.org, call 203-790-6568 or email Festival@AnnsPlace.org. The Matrix Conference & Banquet Center is located at 39 Old Ridgebury Rd, Danbury. See ad, page 33.

o mark its 10th anniversary this month, The Clean Bedroom’s sleep showrooms will be offering anniversary-inspired discounts and giveaways over the Thanksgiving weekend.

In addition, The Clean Bedroom will be holding a Perfect-10 Sleep Giveaway throughout November, when lucky customers may receive a Naturally Organic Oyasumi Natural Latex Mattress (valued at $2,630).

“We’re thrilled to achieve such a major milestone,” said co-founder and co-owner Chris Chamberlin. “Our success is truly a testament to the growing awareness of the importance of being as healthy as possible every day—and every night, too.”

The sleep showrooms are located in Kittery and Portland, Maine; Wellesley, Massachusetts; Greenwich, Connecticut; New York, New York; Austin, Texas; and Santa Monica, California.

he 12th Annual Festival of Trees will take place November 21-23 at the Matrix Conference & Banquet Center in Danbury. The festival funds Ann’s Place, providing free community-based cancer support to hundreds of people living with cancer each month.

In addition to cocktails, dinner and live music, the kickoff party from 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm on November 21 will include special honoree Paul P. Dinto, Baseball Legend celebrity guests, an exclusive designer tree and a prize auction.

Admission for the party is $130 per person.

The festival hours will be 10 am to 5 pm on November 22 and 23. Live entertainment, vendors and more than 200 raffles of holiday trees and prizes will be offered to attendees.

The event will include children’s tea parties, LEGO Artists Challenge and Robotics competition, and Jewelry Designs’ Digging for Diamonds.

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 Anthem, BC/BS, Oxford, Aetna insurance accepted

Facial Rejuvenation– “The Natural Facelift” Pediatrics

Diet & Nutritional Counseling 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

eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2014

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newsbriefs Local Yoga Events for National Veterans Week

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eterans Yoga Project is organizing a special event to showcase a collective appreciation for, and offer tangible help to, American veterans.

Yoga students of all levels are invited to honor the nation’s veterans by attending a benefit yoga or meditation class during Veterans Week, November 9-15, as part of a National Yoga Event to Help Support Our Warriors.

Three events will take place in Connecticut. On November 7 from 3:30 pm-4:45 pm, a benefit yoga class taught by Dan Libby will take place at Your Community Yoga Center in Hamden ($20 suggested minimum donation). Neiley Snide will teach two classes at Taftville’s A Peace of Space ($15-25 suggested minimum donation) on November 15 from 9:30 to 10:45 am and 11:00 am to 12:15 pm. Veterans are invited to attend any of these classes but are not expected to make a donation.

More than 30 yoga classes across the country are being conducted to help raise awareness and funds that will help Veterans Yoga Project accomplish its mission to support recovery and promotes resilience among veterans, their families and their communities.

For more information, find class locations, or to make a donation, visit VeteransYogaProject.org/Seva.html. To organize a benefit yoga or meditation class for Veterans Week, visit VeteransYogaProject.org/Seva-Registration.html.

American Cancer Society to Host Women’s Wellness Breakfast

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he American Cancer Society will host the inaugural Women Leading the Way to Wellness Breakfast on November 12 from 7:30 am to 9:30 am at The Dolce Norwalk Hotel & Conference Center. Residents, local business and community leaders and health professionals interested in learning more about cancer prevention and early detection are invited to attend this event.

Guests will have the opportunity to hear from Jane Green, author and cancer survivor, and the American Cancer Society’s Director of Nutrition and Physical Activity Colleen Doyle, MS, RD, on the importance of staying well. The society will also be honoring three local women who have been instrumental in the fight against cancer. Honorees include Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman; Purdue Pharma L.P.’s Executive Director of Patient and Professional Relations Pamela Bennett, RN, BSN, CCE; and Director of Cancer Services Elizabeth Manfredo, MS, RD, from Stamford Hospital’s Carl & Dorothy Bennett Cancer Center. Empowerment Coach Nina Antolino will emcee the event.

The program will focus on women putting their health first in order to stay well to care for their extended families and households. Tickets can be purchased for $75 per person.

For more information on tickets, the event or sponsorship opportunities call 203-563-1528 or email Debbie.Wolyniec@ Cancer.org. The Dolce Norwalk Hotel & Conference Center is located at 32 Weed Ave, Norwalk.

transformative natural healing are you ready for a change?

Naturopathic Family Medicine For over 25 years, Dr. Debra Gibson has provided caring, personal treatment in a friendly, comfortable environment to support healing transformation of body, mind and spirit.

Her thorough, wellness-oriented approach investigates the root cause of chronic health concerns, and uses effective natural therapies to heal imbalances underlying conditions such as fatigue, overweight, allergy and autoimmunity, hormonal imbalance (thyroid, PMS, menopause), gastrointestinal disorders, and children’s health issues. (thy

100 Danbury Road, Suite 102, Ridgefield, CT Ph. 203.431.4443 10

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Debra Gibson, ND

New Canaan Coach Launches Beyond Soccer Mom

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hysicianturned-health and happiness coach Dr. Leonaura Rhodes is launching her new book, Beyond Soccer Mom: Strategies for a Fabulous Balanced Life.

Leonaura Rhodes In her first book, New Canaan resident Rhodes offers mothers a comprehensive guide to creating their dream life by combining strategies from medicine, coaching and neuroscience with inspiring stories of personal transformation.

Many mothers neglect themselves by focusing all their time and energy on their children. What many mothers crave is expert advice on how to decrease stress and improve their own health, happiness, fulfillment and abundance at the same time as they help their children thrive.

“I lived in a fog of stress and selfneglect for many years. My book is packed full of the best strategies I have discovered to help mothers take control of their lives. If you have ever felt that you deserve a better life, this book is for you,” says Rhodes.

Beyond Soccer Mom is available now in major bookstores, at BeyondSoccerMom.com and on Kindle and Nook.

Rhodes, founder of The Neurofeedback Coach LLC, is a UK-trained physician and neuroscience expert, a health and happiness coach for mothers, speaker, host of The Busy Mom Show, and is herself an evolved soccer mom.

To schedule a speaking engagement with Rhodes or for more information, email Admin@DrLeonauraRhodes.com, call 203-807-3641 or visit BeyondSoccerMom.com.

! ! !

Kindred Spirits A Center for the Mind, Body, & Soul

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

203-938-3690 www.kindredspiritscenter.com 59 Ledgewood Road, Redding, CT 06896

Experience a Himalayan Salt Cave …Now Here in Ridgefield Experience

Saltana C ve

the Fairfield County's First & Only Therapeutic Himalayan Salt Cave In a salt cave, you are immediately surrounded by tons of Himalayan salt rocks, just as if you were in a salt mine. Relaxing on zero gravity lounge chairs to soothing music, experience serenity & peace in just minutes Salt therapy is: known to significantly improve respiratory issues in children & adults, asthma, allergies, countering the side effects of smoking and pollution, cystic fibrosis, acne naturally anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal ~ Like us on Facebook ~ https://www.facebook.com/pages/Saltana-Cave/477550062298188

590 Danbury Road,Ridgefield 203-969-4327 SaltanaCave.com

AVEDA Hair Coloring!

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call for a free consultation 20% off your first appointment!

Salon 221!

221 Putnam Ave Cos Cob, CT! 203-661-8838 914-552-8031! www.robertedwardaveda.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2014

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newsbriefs Salon Aponte Adds Local Line of Body Care Products

Grand Opening for Danbury Wellness Center

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onroe’s Salon Aponte, a leader in the area’s movement to organic and “cleaner” beauty and styling products, has added a new line of body care products also made in Monroe.

The Kosmatology line includes body wash, lotion bars, foot balm, hand soap, winter salve for weather-roughened hands and a body stick.

Nancy Aponte, owner of Salon Aponte, is excited to add this new locally produced line to the many other offerings the salon already carries. “It’s fun to find new companies doing good things and bring those things to the store for our clients to enjoy,” she says.

Earlier this year, Salon Aponte began to offer the Dr. Hauschka makeup line, and Aponte says it has been a big hit. Since getting the line in the spring, the salon holds makeup nights once a month for women to gather and experiment with new items.

ransformation for Life Wellness Center in Danbury will hold a grand opening on November 9 from 10 am to 4 pm. Attendees can enter to win door prizes and raffles for free massages, foot reflexology, facials and yoga classes. Owner Jill Myruski, LMT, RYT 200, a massage therapist serving northern Fairfield County for over 17 years, recently became a yoga teacher as well. Her business has moved to a new, larger location to add yoga classes to the wellness center’s offerings.

Free samples of all of the center’s services will be offered at the grand opening, including mini-treatments and yoga classes. Attendees can also sign up for a free 30-minute wellness consultation. On November 9 only, 25 percent discounts will be offered on all massages, facials and yoga class gift certificates and packages.

The center is open Tuesday through Thursday from 9 am to 8:30 pm, Friday from 9am to 6pm, and Saturday from 8:30 am to 4 pm. It is closed Sundays and Mondays except for special events.

For more information about hours and services, call 203-2612838 or visit SalonAponte.com. Salon Aponte is located at 838 Main St, Monroe. See ad, page 25.

For more information, call 203-617-8228 or visit LiveYourTransformation.com. Transformation for Life Wellness Center is located at 80 North St, Danbury.

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8th Annual Healers Gala & Wellness Weekend

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he 8th Annual Healers Gala & Wellness Weekend will take place November 21-23 at Dolce Norwalk Hotel & Conference Center. On November 21 from 6 pm to 11 pm, the formal DRS2HEALTH Healers Gala & Business Showcase event will include a speaker, awards presentation and dinner, with entertainment provided

by Airborne Jazz Band.

From 9 am to 8 pm on November 22, a nature tour, workshops, seminars and spa services will be offered. The nature tour includes walks alongside lakes and fall foliage and will include discussions about medicinal plants found during tour.

Other workshops and seminars will include popular fitness routines suitable for all age groups, seminars geared toward emotional stress release, financial wellness, BMI testing, blood typing, lung capacity testing, nutrition and lifestyle counseling, aqua therapy, and art and pottery making. The events of the day will conclude at 6 pm with a movie.

On November 23 from 9 am – noon, there will be a spiritual service, healing circle and Holy Communion. Led by Christian ministers, the events on this day focus on spiritual enrichment with traditional and contemporary praise and worship songs, praise dancing, intercessory prayer, anointing with oil and Holy Communion.

Hunter Healing Hands For Body, Mind, & Soul

Classes Workshops Drum Circles Reiki Shares Private Healing Sessions by Appointment

Jessica C. Hunter

Shamanic Practitioner & OM Certified Reiki Master Teacher Certified Crystal Therapy Practitioner Empath Intuitive, Shamanic Medium Spiritual Teacher

203-916-8381

www.hunterhealinghands.com hunterhealinghands@hotmail.com

Personalized 7Computing Training

& Troubleshooting Help is Here!

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The cost for the full weekend is $349 per person while one day only is $129 and Sunday is free. For more information, visit Drs2Health.com/Events or call 203-374-5309. The Dolce Norwalk Hotel & Conference Center is located at 32 Weed Ave, Norwalk.

Amy Boyer, LCSW Joins Westport’s Center for Energy

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my Boyer, LCSW, has opened a new psychotherapy office in Westport after 15 years of practice in New York City and upstate New York. Boyer is joining the practitioners at Westport’s Center for Energy.

Boyer offers a holistic approach and combines her training in psychodynamic therapy, bioenergetics, drama therapy and energy work.

She offers in person sessions as well Amy Boyer as Skype and phone sessions.

The center offers a range of healing modalities including energy healing, massage therapies, nutritional counseling and psychotherapy services.

For more information, call 917-453-8936 or visit AmyBoyerlcsw.com. Center for Energy is located at 120 Post Rd West, Ste 101, Westport.

145 Grassy Plain St. Bethel, CT

Soul Focus Mela Rispoli 203-570-3868 mrispoli2@aol.com

Prescription4 Wellness

Mary Gilbertson MS, BSN, CHHC Nutrition & Wellness Coaching Customized Healthy Lifestyle Plans for Whole Living • Weight Loss and Detox • Nutrition • Disease Management • Stress Reduction and Mindfulness

Call 203-521-4733 today!

www.prescription4wellness.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2014

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newsbriefs

Kure Spa Opens in Norwalk

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atricia’s Presents has relocated to the Ridgefield/Wilton line on Route 7 and will celebrate their ribbon-cutting and reopening on November 5 from 5 - 6:30 pm. Held by the Ridgefield Chamber of Commerce and free to the public, all are invited to visit and look Patricia Polk for holiday gift ideas.

The shop is the creation of owner Patricia Polk and features unique items, including vegan leather goods, pet-and equestrian-themed pieces, and handmade Fair Trade jewelry with magnetic closures. Whether shopping for man, woman or child, visitors will find an array of art, accessories and crafts to appeal to many tastes.

n early November Kure Spa will celebrate the grand opening of its new center in Norwalk. A member-based wellness center concept, when it opens Kure Spa will offer Vibrosaun, yoga, massage services and an organic juice bar.

The center philosophy adheres to four components for living healthfully: detoxify, exercise, relax and re-nourish.

The Kure spa offerings fulfill these components as part of its 4-Pillars of Health program: the Vibrosuan machine detoxifies the body, yoga provides exercise for mind and body, massage relaxes, and the organic juice bar provides organic nourishment to support a more energetic way of being.

Kure Spa will be the first in the U.S. to offer Vibrsosaun, a healing and detoxification machine originating in Australia. The machine has been used in Australia for more than 25 years to support individuals suffering from a variety of chronic conditions.

For more information, call 860-946-9705, email info@ PatriciasPresents.com or visit PatriciasPresents.com. Patricia’s Presents is located at 199 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield.

See ad, page 75.

For more information, call 203-857-1500 or visit Kure-Spa.com. For more information about Vibrosaun, visit VibrosaunCenter.com. Kure Spa is located at 430 Main Ave, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. See ad, page 7.

Ribbon-Cutting for Patricia’s Presents in Ridgefield

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ACHOO! As the weather cools down, fall allergies heat up.

Happy Autumn! Feel better knowing that Dr. Marvin Schweitzer offers a host of proven-successful treatments for this season’s nasty bacterial and viral infections, as well as common school-year conditions like ADD / HD. Don’t let the colder weather get you down – schedule a visit today…

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

DrMarvinSchweitzer.com 2 0 3 . 8 4 7. 2 7 8 8

1 We s t p o r t A v e n u e Norwalk, CT 06851

Holistic Happy Hour at iFloat

A Natural Awakenings’ Community Connections event

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n Friday, November 21 from 6 pm to 8 pm, a small group of practitioners and wellness leaders in Fairfield County will gather in Westport to host another iFloat Holistic Happy Hour. This event, co-hosted

by Natural Awakenings as a Community Connections event, is free and open to the public as an opportunity to network, explore different healing modalities, and learn about floating.

In addition to iFloat and Natural Awakenings, the co-hosts in November will include: • Beth Leas, transformative healing and founding director, TLC Center - BethLeas.com • Divan Pervez, Personal Trainer, Fit Haus by Divan: DivanPervez.squarespace.com • Kristina Hess, Certified Health Coach, Thrive Results Coaching: ThriveResultsCoaching.com • Jackie Podlaski, Artist: JepJewelryFa.com

Organized by ifloat’s David Conneely and held at ifloat in Westport every two months, the Holistic Happy Hour events have become popular community evenings, fostering an enjoyable and educational gathering of like-minded individuals who want to share information and learn about each others’ work.

~ equestrian gifts ~ pottery ~ buddas ~ crystals of all sizes ~ books ~ angels

Touch of Sedona A unique boutique with a heartfelt purpose

203-438-7146

452 Main Street, Ridgefield

touchofsedonaridgefield.com

Open Every Day Until 5:30

For more information or to RSVP for the Happy Hour, contact David Conneely at Info@iFloatSpa.net or 203-226-7378. Visit iFloatspa.net for more information about floating. iFloat is located at 163 Main St, Westport, 2nd Fl. See ad, page 19.

Norwalk’s Healing Energy Adds New Modality

H

abib Sebaihi of Healing Energy in Norwalk introduced a new healing and wellness method to his practice.

Somato-emotional release is a therapeutic process that uses and expands upon the principle of craniosacral therapy.

It incorporates the mind and emotions in conjunction with the body to help release the residual effects of physical or emotional trauma.

The combination of somato-emoHabib Sebaihi tional release and craniosacral therapy are beneficial for relief for - but not limited to - migraines, chronic pain, TMJ, stress, anxiety, tension and chronic fatigue syndrome.

Originally from Belgium, Sebaihi is a 10-year Usui Reiki practitioner. In addition to continuing his training in Eastern Reiki Jikiden techniques, he is trained in advanced craniosacral therapy.

For more information, visit HealingEnergyllc.com.

• Herniated/Bulging Discs • Degenerative Discs • Sciatica Presenting… THE

DRX9000™ True Spinal Decompression™

To learn more visit: ctspinalpaincenter.com For your free 30 minute consultation including a review of your MRI (a $158 Value)

Call 203-838-1555 Today. Appointments Limited!

Dr. Mark Joachim, D.C. & Dr. Risa Sloves, D.C. 156 East Avenue • Norwalk, CT • 06851

eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2014

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healthbriefs photo LifeSpanFitness.com/wps.html

Organics Boast More Nutrients, Fewer Toxins

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onventionally grown foods contain pesticide residues that are three to four times higher than those found in organic foods (traces may be due to atmospheric drift from other fields or soils), according to a review of 343 research studies published last June in the British Journal of Nutrition. The review, which included studies of food grown in different regions and seasons, also determined that organic foods contained higher levels of healthy nutrients such as minerals, vitamins and antioxidants (specifically polyphenols), compared to conventional foods, which also contained significantly higher levels of cadmium, a heavy metal toxin.

The study’s authors found evidence that the higher antioxidant and lower cadmium concentrations are linked to specific organic growing practices such as avoiding mineral nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers, respectively. They commented, “Results indicate that switching from conventional to organic crop consumption would result in a 20 to 40 percent increase in crop-based antioxidant/polyphenolic intake levels.”

Golden Years

Senior Roommate Service Combats Loneliness AARP, Inc., estimates that about 8,000 baby boomers turn 65 every day. With longer and healthier life expectancies, many are divorced or widowed and need roommates to have company and chat with; to share living costs and chores; and for emotional support.

Women-only Roommates4Boomers.com founder Sarah Venable says, “I went online to find a service that helps women over 50 find roommates, and found to my dismay that there were plenty of sites for finding roommates in their 20s and 30s, but nothing for boomer women.”

For a $30 fee, the site uses a detailed algorithm to match women not only by location, but by interests, tastes, lifestyles, education, personal preferences and a host of other factors; much like a successful dating website.

TREADMILL DESKS BOOST JOB PERFORMANCE

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n addition to improving fitness, University of Minnesota researchers found that treadmill walking at the desk also boosts productivity and morale. The study tested 40 adults that used treadmills for a year. Selfassessments, combined with supervisor assessments, found that treadmill walking while working increased performance levels. Work performance improved by an average of 11 percent based on supervisor assessments, and 7 percent based on the employee self-assessments.

A study from Rutgers University tested 66 adults while they walked on treadmills set for low intensity versus when they were seated at desks, with two days separating the tests. Measurements of reading comprehension, attention span and response speed skills and performance show these were unimpeded by treadmill walking when compared with sitting.

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

Ongoing Events

Celebration Service Sundays at 10:30 am Rev. Shawn Moninger, Minister 3 Main St, 2nd Floor, Norwalk, CT 06851 (203) 855-7922, www.unitycenterps.org

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Fairfield County Edition

Celebration Service, Sun at 10:30 am Reiki Healing Circle, 1st Thu at 7 pm Thought Exchange, Mon at 7 pm Purls of Wisdom, 2nd Sat at 6:30 pm Open Mic Night, 3rd Sat at 7 pm

Special Events "The Self and the Soul: Living in the Domain of Miracles" - Workshop with Jackie Woodside Sunday, November 16th , 12:30-2:30 pm - Suggested Love Offering $20

natural awakenings

coverartist

Hypnosis is a natural form of healing, effective for weight loss, smoking cessation, fears and phobias, stress and anxiety, and regression to past lives.

Ronna Brier, M.A., CH

Certified in HypnoFertility® The mind/body approach can be effective whether trying to conceive naturally or in conjunction with medical treatment. Hypnosis works to reduce high anxiety states, to promote relaxation, and utilize visualization tools to aid the mother in her journey.

Call For a Free Initial Consultation 203-641-5481 www.NewtownHypnosis.com

The Joy of Life

Douglas François Girard Growing up in Africa, Douglas François Girard spent hours studying pictures of Europe, Canada and Alaska in National Geographic magazines, longing to be present in northern forests, looking out across a vista dominated by towering mountain peaks. Girard’s studies of mythology increased his love for these faraway destinations. “Ancient cultures considered shady forests, pools of water and high mountain peaks as mystical places where they could feel closer to their gods,” he explains. “From time immemorial, mankind must have stood in awe of nature at such spots and been touched the by same spiritual feeling that I experience.”

Girard moved to Alaska in 1993, finding his revered “cathedrals of stillness” in the Chugach and Talkeetna mountains. His landscapes pay homage to nature’s many changing moods, imbuing his art with a richly nuanced sense of mystery and expectation.

The mountains and mythology inspire his figurative landscapes, as well.

“My figures act in harmony with the moods of nature,” says Girard. “They partake in rituals, emerge out of mist and are nearly always close to water, the symbol of life. They meditate on the shores and in the sanctuary of womblike mountain lakes or dance near bubbling waterfalls. Here, beauty, peace, mystery and the mystical reside.”

View the artist’s portfolio at Douglas-Girard.com.

Are You Ready to Thrive?

Transformational Guidance from Vibrational Success Coach

Roberta Russell, LMT 10 Years Coaching Experience

•Manifest Abundance, Relationships & Vibrant Health •Integrate the Law of Attraction Into Your Life •Relieve Stress & Pain Holistically with: Massage Therapy • Energy Healing • EFT Call for a Free 15 Minute Consultation 203-438-2354 West Redding, CT • www.Beyond-Touch.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2014

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

Cash Mobs

Collective On-the-Spot Buying Revives Local Businesses

Eco-India

Strides Promised in Environmental Protection

In most areas of the country, small, locally owned retail businesses are the lifeblood of local economies, but the rising costs of doing business often means they cannot compete with the lower prices of big-box retail giants that negotiate in volume.

For several years, the growth and frequency of cash mobs have been breathing new life into struggling mom-and-pop businesses. Like a flash mob performing a dance or social protest, a cash mob gathers people together to have a tremendously positive effect on hometown businesses that may have served them and their families for decades.

Most cash mobs agree to meet on a particular day, with each participant committing to spend a specified amount, typically $20 or more. The benefits for local businesses far exceed a one-day influx of cash—new customers are found, previous customers become active ones again and a new appreciation for businesses that fuel a local economy is realized.

Participants can also have a little fun while further benefiting their communities as many cash mobs gather with old friends and new after a shopping frenzy at a local establishment for food and drinks.

Following the lead of Jadav “Molai” Payeng, an Indian man who singlehandedly planted 1,360 acres of forest, India’s Rural Development Ministry will plant 2 billion trees along the nation’s 62,137 miles of highways to combat rural poverty and youth unemployment and improve the environment, which suffers from severe air pollution.

According to the World Health Organization, India currently has a youth unemployment rate of 10.2 percent and six of the world’s 10 cities with the worst air pollution. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also announced a target of spreading electricity to every home by 2019, relying largely on solar power, and the government is furthering plans to clean up the Ganges and Yamuna rivers.

Source: CashMob.com

Source: Treehugger.com

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Total Life Care Center 152 East Ave. • Norwalk, CT • 203-856-9566 • TLCcenter.com Total Life Care Center is dedicated to holistic health by providing you with highly trained and experienced integrated health care practitioners. TLC Center is Fairfield County’s largest holistic health center - with more than 90 Independent Members - and was founded by Beth Prins Leas in 1997 on the premise that a single candle burns brighter in a gathering.

Beth has created a vibrant holistic health and resource center and growing community of people who are committed to living consciously and to offering healthy lifestyle options in the form of private sessions, classes, workshops and special events.

Please visit our website and sign up for our newsletter to learn more about how TLC Center can support you on your journey to living well.

Nutrition Counseling • Body Composition Testing Mindful Eating • Biofeedback for Stress Relief E r i c k s o n i a n H y p n o s i s • M e t a b o l i c Ty p i n g Hormone & Food Allergy Testing • Life Coaching

Fairfield County’s #1 Center

For Stress Reduction and Mind Education Float in warm water with a high concentration of Epsom salt with no light or sound.

Amplify slow brain waves, talk to certified float staff, reduce stress, pain, & more.

Register for a Free One-hour Consultation at: www.ThriveResultsCoaching.com Kristina Hess

Schedule your appointments: (203)-226-7378 • ifloatspa.net 163 Main St.,Westport, CT

Certified Health Coach Sports Nutrition Specialist Licensed HeartMath Provider Functional Diagnostic Nutrition www.ThriveResultsCoaching.com / Kristina@ThriveResultsCoaching.com / www.facebook.com/ThriveRC

Shift happens...are you ready?

Transformative Healing

Beth Prins Leas Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu,Tarot private sessions, workshops, events in-person or by phone Norwalk and Ridgefield locations ww www.bethleas.com 203.856.9566

Quality Acupuncture at Affordable Prices

Acupuncture Healing CT Really affordable, based on: Small group acupuncture keeps prices down and allows many more to take advantage of this highly effective, ancient healing art.

Discounted packages allow for better, faster results and lower pricing.

Private sessions also available.

Jody Eisemann

is a CT licensed acupuncturist with 20+ years experience in treatment of all kinds of pain with immediate & effective results.

Locations in

Norwalk & Trumbull

203-216-2548 AcupunctureHealingCT.com Call for free consultation eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2014

19

Powerful You!

Six Ways to Create the Life You Want

by Judith Fertig

working already and the vision of what life can be.” She likens self-empowerment to “spiritual surfing, riding the wave where the energy, momentum and passion are.”

As workshop leaders, they encourage participants to transform limiting beliefs, determine what is meaningful for them, construct a compelling vision from that insight and then find ways to manifest that vision. They address six key areas in which to become more powerful and realize our personal best: physical health, emotional health, relationships, work, finances and spirituality.

Physical Health

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ulitzer Prize winner Anna Quindlen had reached the top of the New York Times bestseller list more than once, yet she relates in her memoir, Lots of Candles, Plenty of Cake, that she also yearned to be able to do a headstand, but felt she didn’t possess the necessary sense of balance.

“That’s just a little story you tell yourself,” advised her personal trainer.

Our bodies, Quindlen observes, are major appliances that deliver decades of faithful service with precious little downtime. She admits, “If the human body had a warranty, mine would have run out ages ago.” Still, she clung to a vision: “I want to be strong; strong enough to hike the mountain without getting breathless, strong enough to take a case of wine from the deliveryman and carry it to the kitchen.”

Quindlen, who lives in New York City and New England, was also maintaining an incorrect belief: It wasn’t her

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sense of balance that was holding her back, it was fear.

After two years of trying, she was able to do a headstand. Along with a sense of accomplishment, this quirky achievement was a revelation as she ultimately concluded, “If I can do one thing like that, perhaps there are others.”

Take a Stand

Personal empowerment is all about taking a stand—developing the vision, countering misguided beliefs, having a plan and then moving forward to be the best version of one’s true self.

David Gershon and Gail Straub, of West Hurley, New York, authors of Empowerment: The Art of Creating Your Life As You Want It, contend that empowerment always starts with a desire for a better life. “We need to learn how to dream, how to boldly and courageously reach for our highest visions,” says Straub. “Start with what’s

natural awakenings

First, recognize what we’re already doing right—eating well, perhaps, or exercising—and then add another healthy activity. Cardiologist Suzanne Steinbaum, director of New York City’s Lenox Hill Hospital’s Women and Heart Disease, underscores that much of physical health is within our personal control. “Many lifestyle factors keep us from being physically healthy enough to lead a full life,” she says, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, lack of exercise, poor diet, excessive alcohol consumption or drug use, stress and depression. “The good news is that lifestyle factors are within our power to change.”

Steinbaum recommends starting small by changing one bad habit and then seeing how we feel. “Quit the diet soda or the sugar-sweetened beverages.

Get rid of potato chips. Go for a walk.

Put down your smartphone and spend some focused time with your child, a friend or even your pet. Then breathe… and just listen to how you feel.”

Emotional Health

Our emotions can be allies in achieving personal empowerment, advises Straub.

For example, fear can alert us to danger; joy can remind us to be grateful.

However, when emotions cause pain and threaten derailment, it’s important to understand why, and then work through it.

“Uncomfortable emotions let us know there is a problem to attend to, a wound to work on, thus allowing us to see our own truth,” explains don Miguel Ruiz, Jr., of San Diego,

California, author of The Five Levels of Attachment. “With awareness, we can observe our uncomfortable emotions, as they may be showing a belief we are holding that is no longer true for us.�

“To work through our emotions, we have to be able to accurately sense what we are feeling and be able to express it in a healthy way,� adds Straub, like expressing anger after a tough commute by punching a designated pillow or shouting into a closet.

Furthermore, “We need to change the belief we’ve identified that’s causing the painful emotional response.� Did the guy that cut us off in traffic really do it maliciously? Third, learn to let go of a negative emotion that’s automatically triggered when someone or something presses our “hot button� by immediately considering, “He must have been in a big hurry,� or “She doesn’t realize how offensive that remark could be,� realizing it’s their problem, not ours, and declining to make it ours.

Achieving greater emotional calm is a huge step toward personal empowerment.

Karate

wiÂ? Sensei June Fagan

No ing is so strong as gentleness, No ing so gentle as real streng .

Karate • Weapons Forms • Kickboxing Summer Camps • Family Classes Classes offered for Children and Adults.

203-938-3690 Kempo Karate & Self Defense, Inc. 59 Ledgewood Road, Redding, CT 06896 For a schedule of classes visit www.Kindredspiritscenter.com and cli on e Karate tab

Relationships

Acting on heartfelt emotions can help forge stronger and healthier relationships. “Sometimes, we say yes to a false image of ourselves or hide who we are in order to be accepted,� counsels Ruiz, noting that not presenting our authentic selves in relationships will weaken or replace true intimacy with a sense of loneliness and distance. “Say, ‘I forgive, I accept and I let go.’� This paves the way to being genuine, which naturally leads to greater unconditional love and more fulfilling and honest relationships.

In romantic relationships, life coach Martha Beck, Ph.D., author of Finding Your Way in a Wild New World: Reclaiming Your True Nature to Create the Life You Want, suggests ditching the image of two people looking soulfully into each other’s eyes. “Realize that you’re both changing all the time,� she says. Instead, envision two people walking side-byside at the same pace, and a relationship that will continue to refresh and move forward, instead of getting stuck in well-worn patterns.

Lipo-Light is the new nonsurgical state-of-the-art technology alternative to Liposuction. It is completely non-invasive, does not cause any discomfort, and no down time.

It is based on the principle of biophotomodulation. Infrared light at 635 nanometers is absorbed by fat cells causing the cell’s pores to open and excrete the fatty acid contents into the surrounding fluid. The fat is taken away by the lymphatic system and consumed by body metabolism. The result is immediate loss of inches.

Only One Offer Per Person Restrictions May Apply New Patients Only Offer Expires 12/31/14

eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2014

21

dissolving the disbelief in the possibility of having what you want,” she says. “Empty out the negative thoughts in order to gain the confidence that abundance is yours.”

Detect critical health issues 8-10 years BEFORE mammograms with Thermal Imaging

Spirituality

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Work

Capability is one of the new guiding principles for self-empowerment at work, says Haydn Shaughnessy, a fellow at the University of California-Irvine’s Center for Digital Transformation and co-author, with Nicholas Vitalari, of The Elastic Enterprise. “It’s more about a broad-stroke capability,” he claims, such as public speaking, writing or troubleshooting and fixing machinery.

Capability means a strong skill that can be fine-tuned for a specific circumstance; a talented generalist, rather than a narrow specialist. Shaughnessy recommends that we recognize and develop our best competencies in order to equip ourselves to both withstand economic adversity and help push our careers forward.

Finances

Connecticut’s School of Herbal Studies

Herbalism • Flower Essences Energy Healing • Yoga Learn the art and science of traditional healing with Community Herbalist

Lupo Passero

Classes • Consultations • Workshops Costa Rican Adventures 203•313•7883 www.twinstarherbal.com New Preston, CT 22

Fairfield County Edition

Fiscal self-empowerment involves cultivating the confidence that we will be able to obtain more money when needed. Beck maintains that anyone can create abundance that lasts. “Where people believe they get abundance, they will,” she says, as in friendships or creative problem solving.

It’s the mixed internal messages of, “I need more money,” with, “There’s not enough to go around,” that can block the flow of abundance in our lives.

Beck, who lives in San Luis Obispo, California, recommends throwing a “neurological toggle switch” to turn off the “lack-and-attack” part of our brains and turn on the “everything-is-goingto-be-all-right” area. This is realized through slowing down, relaxing and meditating. “You have to relax to start

natural awakenings

Following all of these first five steps also helps enhance our spirituality. Dennis Merritt Jones, of Simi Valley, California, author of the new book, Your (Re) Defining Moments: Becoming Who You Were Born to Be, calls it “being pulled by vision,” rather than being pushed by pain. The motivational speaker believes that every encounter, event or circumstance is a portal to a redefining moment—a chance to connect with our authentic self.

Jones cites seven characteristics of the authentic or timeless self: realizing our oneness in life, reverence for that life, fearlessness because we know we’re part of something bigger, integrity, humility, equanimity and unconditional love.

“When these qualities become the norm in our daily lives, we’ll know we are living from the authentic self,” he says.

Jones urges us to live “more vertically.” He explains, “We exist on what I call the surface of life, a horizontal pathway where we go about our daily routines. We often don’t hear the siren call from the depths of our being because we are so busy ‘doing’. It’s the authentic self that’s eternally calling us to be who we were born to be.”

He describes a “sacred intersection” where we can turn from the horizontal everyday and move in a vertical direction to the depths of our souls or the heights of our imaginations via mindfulness and self-enquiry. Fortunately, every moment of every day offers this opportunity to expand our being. The key question is, “Will we be consciously present enough to recognize the opening and step through the door?”

These experts concur there is no finish line for self-empowerment or attaining the perfect place to stay. It’s a “sustainable growth process,” says Gershon, an ideal project for the rest of our lives.

Judith Fertig blogs at AlfrescoFoodAnd Lifestyle.blogspot.com from Overland Park, KS.

Using Hypnosis to Access the Higher Self

by Maria C. Castillo

T

he higher self is defined by Wikipedia as “an eternal, omnipotent, conscious and intelligent being, who is one’s real self.” It is also “an extension of the self to a more advanced and incorporeal realm.” Whether you believe that the higher self is the subconscious, the soul, the collective unconscious, or simply information from your DNA, it is the core of who you are. In connecting with one’s higher self, some believe you are connecting with the divine forces of the universe, of which we are all a part. The answers to issues, questions and problems can be found within our own selves: Who are you? What is your purpose in this life?

Where are you going and how do you get there? This awareness of who you truly are as a spiritual being having an earthly existence in a human body can be reached through meditation, dreams, journeying and other practices and is not connected to any religion or belief system.

A young adult may consult her higher self to decide which college to attend. An older woman realizes what new career path she should pursue in her early retirement. A middle-aged man discovers the root of his gastrointestinal issues and how they relate to emotional matters. These are just a few of the ways that tapping in to your higher self can serve to speed up the process of healing or help people find direction in their lives.

Intuition and gut feelings are a glimpse of the knowledge within the higher self. Children are instinctively connected to this ability, however once began formal education begins, we are taught to rely on the conscious mind for information and look to those outside of us for answers. Some forget their ability to listen to the inner voice while others struggle to maintain the connection.

We sometimes have brief access to the higher mind when the conscious mind is “busy.” Have you ever driven on the highway from point A to point B yet don’t remember how you got there? You were in a trance. The conscious mind was “busy” driving the car and you were in that quiet, connected place where the thoughts are calm, all can be worked out easily and without judgment.

When hypnosis is used to quiet the conscious mind, one has access to the wisdom of the higher self in a comfortable, deeper way. In a deep trance state that can be reached through the guidance of a trained hypnotherapist, you can access information from the true self and answer your own questions. In conjunction with psychotherapy, this can be a speedy way to resolve problems and gain insight. Furthermore, an individual can learn self-hypnosis techniques to access the higher self on one’s own.

In a typical session, a deep trance is induced and the conscious mind, which judges, analyzes, and is fearful, recedes into the background. The calm, quiet higher mind is accessible. The client’s own questions which he or she brings to the session are presented. The individual has total recall of the experience and speaks during the experience. The therapist is merely a facilitator of the trance and records the person’s answers.

Using hypnosis for past life regression in combination with access to the higher self can also heal emotionally, physically, mentally and spiritually. Typically, at the end of the memory of the past life, you witness the death in that life.

At that moment, connecting with the higher self can eliminate all residual effects from that life as it may be appearing in the current life.

Using hypnosis to access the higher self empowers people to find the answers within. With more direction, clarity and purpose, individuals can make decisions that will allow them to learn the lessons they proposed for themselves and accomplish their mission in this life. Let your inner wisdom guide you.

Maria C. Castillo is a licensed clinical social worker in private practice in Monroe. She is a hypnotherapist and trained in Past Life Regression and Life Between Lives regression. Contact her at LifeBetweenLivesTherapy.com. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 73. eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2014

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HONORING YOUR SELF: The Heart and Soul of Holistic Self-Defense

by Nina Antolino

M

any of us settle for far less in our lives than we are capable of achieving. We spend years pursuing other people’s dreams rather than boldly and courageously reaching for our own. We seek approval and validation from the world outside rather than tuning into our own hearts, our own sense of confidence, our full potential. We not only lose our way, we lose our sense of self.

The heart of empowerment is your ability, through self-awareness, to discover your deepest heart’s desire, inner voice and truth. It is to harness the passion in your heart and the power of your mind to take action. Empowerment means allowing no one—not even your own self-sabotaging thoughts—to pull you away from your vision of what you most wish to create for your life. Empowerment is moving away from perceiving ourselves as a victim of the circum-

stances we may find ourselves in and stepping fully into victorious self-responsibility and freedom.

But without proper boundaries - our ability to say “no” kindly but firmly—we fall “victim” to our to-do lists, to demands around us, and our need to please others. These often bully us away from our center and own inner voice. We disconnect from our hearts and our minds fill with chatter.

We believe busyness is strength; the more we do, the more valuable we think we are. The truth is, the more driven we are, the less energy we really have. Without balance, we fail to create the space we need to pursue our passions and live up to our full creative potential.

Honoring yourself is the heart of holistic self-defense. It requires the ability to create healthy boundaries and find balance. We need both our yin and yang energies and becoming adept at balancing means giving with receiving, knowing when to act and when to find stillness. It is in finding stillness, in being calm, that we connect to our aliveness, our freedom and our power.

When we think of self-defense, our mind automatically conjures up the thought of fighting, attacking back, expressing our inner rage, becoming hyper-vigilant, and protecting ourselves from potentially threatening situations. Holistic self-defense occurs well before any physical altercation or violence can take place. It occurs in the stillness, the space in which we can begin to see things clearly, so we can act with discernment.

Many self-defense classes focus solely on the very physical aspect of defending oneself from attack. This is reactive and reflexive. This is what you do in a fight or flight situation, that moment when you feel you have to fight to survive.

There is a place where it intersects with holistic.

Although learning physical tactics are part of the approach in holistic self-defense, it is through mindful physical movements that you will see what cannot be seen and understand that which is beyond words. It is only through dedicated training that one will truly gain understanding of the peaceful nature embedded within the martial arts piece of this work.

Holistic self-defense is a union of martial arts and yogic philosophy. Part of the Tae Kwon Do oath is, “…to be a champion of freedom and justice and to build a more peaceful world.” In yogic philosophy, this is called “ahimsa,” which translates to non-harming/non-violence. This doesn’t only refer to violent actions, but also refraining from violent language and criticism not only toward others but also to-

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ward yourself. Peace begins within. As you learn and use these foundational skills, you may begin to find yourself in fewer conflicts in all areas of life.

Holistic self-defense is about extreme self-care and honoring ourselves. It is about freeing ourselves from violence. The first step is to create a foundation that fosters self-awareness, self-trust, balance, clear boundary setting, non-defensiveness/non-violence (toward self and others), empowerment, and also by developing the safety strategies and physical skills necessary to be prepared to face any conflict.

Once you have developed these skills, you will shore up inner resources and hopefully never have to use physical force to protect yourself. In essence you will learn to steer clear of situations which violence is likely. We learn self-empowerment; how to stand up and honor ourselves so we can appropriately handle exploitive, hostile, abusive people that may be encountered in any aspect of life. Eventually, with practice, it is possible to identify and transform the beliefs and actions that may draw those ugly situations in to begin with.

For more information, visit Limitless-Potential.net. Led by Dr. Douglas DeMassa and Nina Antolino, RYT, RMT, MBA, a holistic self-defense program will be held on Mondays beginning November 10 from 7-9 pm in Norwalk. A free intro session will take place on November 3 from 7-9 pm.

Seven Key Elements of Holistic Self-Defense: • Cultivating mindfulness/awareness (know your surroundings) • Trusting yourself/your intuition • Restoring balance (relieving stress, yin/yang, self-care) • Setting clear boundaries (the art of saying “no”) • Non-violence/non-defensiveness (toward self and others in word and deed) • Empowerment (visualizing the outcome you want, personal power, taking action) • Physical techniques and safety tactics strategies

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Making Peace with Your Inner Critic

ing in, shift your attention to something more interesting and important.

Don’t fight back. Just like a child who misbehaves for attention, devoting your time and attention to arguing with your inner critic is apt to result in more of the same bad behavior. Instead, let the inner critic do its thing without engaging.

Identify your triggers. For many, there are certain situations and circumstances where the inner critic tends to be the most vocal. These often relate to areas of your lives in which you’ve had difficulties in the past. Knowing your triggers can help to break the cycle before the inner critic takes a firm hold. It can also signal areas for self-development and healing.

Practice affirmations. Affirmations— positive statements that you make about yourself—can be a great way to counter the repeated damaging effects of your inner critics. Affirmations work best when you allow ourselves to fully connect with their meaning and agree to disagree with any subtle input from our inner critic.

by Victoria Shaw

T

he inner critic is that voice in your head whose job it is to make you feel bad about yourself. The inner critic likes to take the words of critical folks from your childhood, distort them and send them back to you in what sounds like your own voice. The inner critic has lots of tricks up its sleeve to keep you down, such as convincing you that you have to be perfect and nothing you do will ever be good enough.

Here are some tips for making peace with your inner critic: Smoke it out. You know your inner critic is at work whenever your thoughts take an unkind turn. Catching it in the act is often all that is needed to restore the peace.

Shift your focus. The inner critic will do anything to get your attention. Whenever you notice its critical voice sneak-

Avoid judgment. Ironically, you are often most apt to call others out on the very things that bother you most about yourself.

Show compassion. At its core, the inner critic is really just trying to help you. Though its methods may be misguided, that self-criticism often arises as an attempt to motivate you towards change and greater compassion for ourselves.

Seek Professional Support. If you find that your inner critic is ever-present or seriously interfering with your emotional well-being, it may be helpful to enlist the support of a licensed therapist or certified life coach.

Victoria Shaw, PhD, LPC, DCC, is a psychologist and licensed professional counselor with a private practice in Wilton, Fairfield and Westport. Visit VictoriaShawPsychotherapy.com or VictoriaShawIntuitive.com for more information. See ad, page 19.

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Ancestral Support Heals Family Constellations

by Gail Gorelick

S

ystemic family constellations are both conventional psychotherapy and ancient shamanic healing ceremonies. Bert Hellinger is the German psychotherapist who brought this energetic form of healing from the Zulu tribe in Africa after he served as a missionary there. In constellations, a person comes forward to share an issue in his life that needs healing and resolution. Everyone sits in a circle with the center of the circle being called the field, the sacred field or quantum field.

The client then chooses other group members to represent their family members or issues and places them in the center wherever it feels best. When another person represents parents or family members connected in the quantum field, he is actually able to experience the emotions of that person. The

spirit mind guides his movements in this experiential process until resolution occurs. Constellations heal at the heart of the issue and can provide life-changing and long-lasting results.

The guiding principles of constellations have been revealed and become understood through many constellations; they are not theoretical constructs. Your parents are the portals through which you are gifted life and your connection to them is commensurate to how deeply you are immersed in life. Your abundance comes through your mother’s lineage and business in the world comes through your father’s lineage. Women’s relationships are influenced by their connection with their father and men by their connection with their mother. You are all connected to your family soul, tribal (community)

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soul, and then the soul of collective humanity.

In shamanic work, constellations are a bridge between this world and the spirit world. Whatever happened in the epigenetic field of your family and of your ancestors deeply affects your lives today. Mass traumas like war, famine, slavery and the Holocaust still influence everyone today. Unhealed traumas keep repeating throughout the generations so they can be healed. The suffering souls of the forgotten and excluded ones are simply trying to be seen and included with love. Family secrets may not be consciously known but our souls feel them as a heavy burden nonetheless. In a family, everyone belongs, even the perpetrators who have come to show you what needs to be healed in your families. Until the source of your issues in your ancestry are resolved, you are blindly bound to entangle with and embody these issues in a myriad of ways throughout your life. Whatever is excluded will show up in future generations. You are living the future of your ancestors as you also create the future of your descendants.

Ancestors are a source of spiritual support similar to angels, saints, totems, and other spirit guidance. When your ancestors are behind you, you are strong. “The past is never the past. It is always present and you better reckon with it in your life and in your daily experience,” sang Bruce Springsteen.

Gail Gorelick, MA, OM, has been studying systemic family constellations since 2006. She can be reached at GorelickGM@aol.com or through CrossingRainbows.com for group or private constellations.

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naturally decline and transform into non-physical energy as we leave this plane of existence. The arc of mortality is a given; but, to a great extent, the trajectory and the quality of our lives are matters of choice. We can choose the path of “disease expectancy” our society has embraced over the past century, with degenerating health and an increase in medications and procedures starting in mid-life or even earlier. Or we can instead follow the lead of cultures throughout the world in which decline occurs only at the very end of a long lifespan, with vitality and health persisting far into the later years.

“The point of power is always in the present moment.” ~Louise Hay

Sustaining Healthy Habits: How to Support Lifestyle Transformation

by Debra Gibson

“It’s not that some people have willpower and some don’t. It’s that some people are ready to change and others are not.” ~James Gordon, M.D.

“Change is not merely necessary to life – it is life.” ~Alvin Toffler

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Most people know the outlines of a lifestyle that will create a healthier, more vital life trajectory. But, as many of us have experienced, intellectual knowledge often fails to translate into healthy behaviors. What is necessary to create and sustain authentic lifestyle change is nothing less than a metamorphosis, a kind of death of the old self and emergence of a new one. On the physical plane, cellular turnover for the body as a whole creates a “new self” every seven to 10 years. But in individual tissues and organs, we are transforming far more rapidly than was previously thought: the cells of the liver are renewed every year or so; the red blood cells every three months; and the cells that line the intestine are renewed every several days. This means that our momentto-moment and day-to-day choices determine whether we regenerate or degenerate our cells, tissues and well-being.

Every choice is a point of power to change course and move in the direction of health.

Commitment to change—and patience with the change process—is integral to any serious program of lifestyle transformation. After the “New Year’s resolution” phase has passed,

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we are left to face the tedious reality that many steps lie between us and the realization of the vision which first got us started on the path toward a healthier version of ourselves. To realize our vision, we need to accept that behavioral change (which is what lifestyle improvement comes down to) takes time and practice. It’s a process of gradually learning how not to do what we have habitually done, and instead “building muscles” for new life skills—eating, drinking, exercising, sleeping, resting, playing, thinking, working, interacting— that support a healthier, higher functioning life.

“Change is a process, not an event.” ~James O. Prochaska, Ph.D. Psychotherapist James Prochaska and his colleagues developed a theory of behavior change that has come to be known as the Stages of Change model.

Originally applied to the field of substance addiction treatment, it has been shown to be a successful method for many areas of behavior transformation, from bullying prevention to overeating.

Prochaska’s Processes of Change, some of which are highlighted below, are fundamental strategies for moving from denial to transformation.

Consciousness-raising: Become aware of and informed about the unhealthy behavior and the positive aspects of healthy behavior. Read books on the subject, research it online, talk to people who have successfully changed

the behavior, and get feedback from people in your life about their feelings toward the change you are making.

Self-liberation: Believe in your power to change, and act on that belief.

“To confront a person with his shadow is to show him his own light.” ~Carl Jung

Helping relationships: Seek out people who support your process of change.

People who insist on going it alone often lose momentum and, when difficulties arise, they are less likely to persist and succeed in the desired change.

Connect with one or more “buddies” among friends or in your community for mutual encouragement, or with an online or offline support group; work with a counselor or therapist with expertise in the area of your needed behavioral change; or take a class that supports the kind of lifestyle change you are working on, such as a healthy cooking class.

As anyone knows who has tried to replace a destructive habit with better behaviors, the best intentions may submit to deeper, more powerful forces in the psyche as we move along the path of real transformation. We come face-to-face with our fears, resistance and with characteristics of ourselves we have tried our best to avoid, the unacknowledged aspects of self that the poet and writer Robert Bly and Swiss psychologist Carl Jung have named the “human shadow”.

Much as we would like to leave

it behind, the shadow is part of us and will follow us everywhere. It can hold a great deal of our power. When we embark on a plan of lifestyle change, it’s the shadow elements that show up to whisper in our ears, urging us to do the very thing we have firmly resolved not to do. This urge to sabotage our highest and healthiest intentions has been termed the “counter intention” by the life coach Joe Vitale. To persist in the work of a successful lifestyle change, we must engage with our counter intentions and turn a light on our shadow selves. Dialogue processes (such as Voice Dialogue techniques), journaling, group support, and working with a skilled therapist, health coach or supportive healthcare practitioner can give us tools to explore the underpinnings of our resistance and by integrating the awareness we’ve

Counter-conditioning: Develop healthy ways of acting and thinking to replace unhealthy habitual thoughts and actions. Take a meditation or mindfulness class and learn how to reduce stress and anxiety with your breathing and awareness instead of with a cigarette, glass of wine, or pint of gelato.

Reinforcement: Promise yourself a reward for healthy behavior and keep your promise to yourself.

Controlling stimuli: Replace reminders for unhealthy behavior with cues for healthy behavior. Clear your kitchen of sweets and junk food; replace them with healthy snacks such as fruit, hummus, carrot sticks and sunflower seeds.

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gained, to emerge better equipped to overcome the obstacles to change.

“One should eat to live, not live to eat.” ~Benjamin Franklin Just as our psychology can help or hinder our motivation for lifestyle change, so can our biology and biochemistry either support or undermine our commitment. Unhealthy lifestyle behaviors do more than limit our enjoyment of life and put us at risk for chronic disease later; they also skew body/mind systems designed to keep us in balance and on track for wellness. One of the most important strategies for sustaining lifestyle change is to support balanced body function and brain biochemistry. Whether the goal is to put the smoking habit in your past, to lose weight, or to maintain sobriety, proactive tools of healthy eating, exercise, nutritional support and stress reduction ease the transition to healthier behavior, raise the threshold for relapse, and reinforce positive feedback loops for wellness.

Debra Gibson, ND, provides strategies for lifestyle change as a naturopathic physician in Ridgefield. She can be reached at 203-431-4443 or at DrGibsonsOffice@sbcglobal.net. See ad, page 10.

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by J.O. Prochaska, J. Norcross and C. Di Clemente Understanding more about how real change happens allows Delos-Inc.com us to reframe the journey toward our vision from being goalInformation and books on Hal and Sidra Stone’s Voice oriented to becoming process-oriented. It can take us from an unrealistic and perfectionist belief that our progress must Dialogue technique be linear to an acceptance that a spiraling upward path (with A Little Book on the Human Shadow inevitable downturns along the way) may take longer but is more in keeping with realities of human nature and is ultiby Robert Bly mately more likely to be successful. It allows us to take our dream out of the world of fantasy and the future and to bring Zero Limits it to earth in the present and, step-by-step and over time, to

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40 Dodgingtown Road Newtown, Connecticut 06470 Accredited by CAIS and AWSNA

practitionerprofiles Diverse Fairfield County practitioners who devote their time, energy and expertise to facilitating and empowering change for their clients.

Nina Antolino

Limitless Potential Norwalk • 914-393-9221 NAntolino@aol.com • Limitless-Potential.net Practice Summary/Wellness services offered: Coaching and wellness programs, emphasis on women’s empowerment and wellness. An integrative approach to personal and professional development through Reiki, life coaching, yoga, meditation, women’s empowerment workshops, mind/ body support groups, educational seminars and more.

What drew you to health and wellness as a profession? After 10 years in corporate training and professional development, I developed a stress-related chronic illness. It set me on a path to self-healing and selfempowerment which sparked my passion to empower others and help them recognize their own healing potential.

Nina Antolino

What training and/or certifications do you have? Reiki Master, certified empowerment life coach, certified interdisciplinary yoga instructor, mindfulness meditation practitioner, MBA. How long have you been practicing? 15 years Do you have a particular specialty or niche? Integrative Reiki and coaching sessions to facilitate greater healing and personal transformation. Stress-related illness, anxiety, chronic fatigue, acute and chronic pain, fertility issues, women’s WELL (Wellness, Empowerment, Leadership, Learning) programs.

What should a client expect from a session or series of sessions with you? As an intuitive healer and coach, I understand the power of guiding a client to her own inner wisdom, releasing energetic blocks to promote healing, and facilitating the motivation and commitment necessary to achieve her limitless potential. Using a powerful, 4 Step Transformational Process, you are guided to envision and create what you want in both your personal and professional life.”

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work? I am so passionate about this work because I get to witness the amazing healing potential that each woman possesses within her. I feel blessed to be able to share mind/body/spirit tools and help women achieve more than they ever believed was possible.

Beth Prins Leas

Norwalk & Ridgefield Locations; sessions also available by phone 203-856-9566 Beth@BethLeas.com BethLeas.com Facebook.com/BethPrinsLeas Twitter.com/BethLeas Practice summary and/or services offered: Growth depends upon movement. My powerful Transformative Healing sessions support you as you grow through change – using energy healing (Reiki and Jin Shin Jyutsu), meditation and intuitive guidance through tarot.

What drew you to this work as a profession?

My own healing journey helped me to understand the power of Beth Prins Leas energy healing and meditation as part of a spiritual practice. As a practitioner/teacher/retreat leader, my focus is on empowering you on your journey.

Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: I have worked extensively for 22+ years with adults and children. I am a Reiki master and Jin Shin Jyutsu self-help instructor with a special interest in fertility, pregnancy, menopause, life-challenging illnesses and spiritual transformation.

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

You will be fully supported in your healing process as I work with you to energetically release what is holding you back, help you find clarity and balance and open to receive your heart’s desire.

How has your work/business evolved and/or what new are you offering for 2014 heading into 2015?

I am super excited about the half-day retreats I am co-facilitating this fall – and am looking forward to a weekend one in the spring!

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

All healing comes from within. The greatest gift a wellness practitioner can offer is supporting you in tapping into your unlimited potential. I am dedicated to empowering you to live life well. eNaturalAwakenings.com

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practitionerprofiles Tom French Coaching

Ronna Brier

Tom French 14 Valley View Rd, Newtown 203-451-0737 TomFrenchCoaching.com

Newtown Hypnosis 31 Hawleyville Rd, Newtown 203-641-5481 NewtownHypnosis.com

Services offered: Tom French Coaching offers mentor life coaching for independent professionals, entrepreneurs, salespeople and others who want to improve their lives and are ready for change. We focus on fulfilling three needs: get better results, develop more clarity and focus, lighten the load.

Practice Summary/Wellness services offered: Newtown Hypnosis offers clients energy healing techniques as well as hypnosis. With hypnosis, our services range from changing behaviors to metaphysical hypnosis.

What drew you to health and wellness as a profession?

On my quest to extend my learning beyond the traditional knowledge of behavior, I embarked on Ronna Brier a search for a more positively focused, naturalistic understanding of human behavior by studying Shamanism and Usui Reiki. The desire to help people create positive change in their habits, behavior and lives led me to pursue studies in hypnosis.

What training and/or certifications do you have?

I hold a Master of Psychology degree and am being certified in Past Life Regression Therapy with Brian Weiss, M.D. and a certified consulting hypnotist. I am also a Usui Reiki Master and practice shamanic healing techniques and metaphysical hypnosis.

What should a client expect from a session or series of sessions with you?

Hypnosis is a form of deep relaxation, a meditative state.

An interview is conducted in which the client and I discuss concerns, issues or interests, depending on the reason for the visit. A one-hour session then follows.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

My work is multi-faceted and can bring feelings of peace, harmony, acceptance and change to a client. What I do promotes healing on a natural level, a level in which change is not a temporary state but one that is lasting and strong.

I will be holding an informative workshop on at 10 am and 6 pm, May 21.

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What drew you to this work: I experienced personally how life Tom French can be transformed through work and how, as our results improve, our life improves. I became certified as a life coach and NLP trainer/coach so I could do this work. My mission is to see people improve in whatever area is important to them. I know that as they feel better and see improved results, there is carryover and their life gets better overall.

Areas of specialty: The specialty is helping people develop empowering beliefs.

When people are not getting what they want in their life, the cause is often their limiting beliefs. Through listening, support and empathy, plus powerful transformational processes, I help clients dissolve limiting beliefs, so they can create the life that is meant for them.

How has your work evolved and what is planned for 2015: More long distance work with Skype has worked well. Also the plan is to focus more on values, helping clients get focused on what is most important to them by clarifying their values.

What do I want readers to know: This mentor life coaching is customized. The all too common one-size-fits-all style doesn’t work for many people, as I saw during years spent providing corporate training services.

This coaching is always focused on the specific issues and challenges of individual clients. It’s a custom fit and improves results quickly.

Victoria Shaw

Offices in Westport and Wilton 203-210-5700 VfShawphd@gmail.com VictoriaShawIntuitive.com VictoriaShawPsychotherapy.com Facebook.com/VictoriaShawPsychotherapy Business/Practice summary and/ or services offered: Drawing on both my intuitive gifts and training in psychology and counseling, I support clients in dealing with life’s struggles and improving the quality of their lives. I offer intuitive consultations as well as intuitive psychotherapy for children, teens and adults.

What drew you to this work as a profession?

Eight years ago, as I began pracVictoria Shaw ticing meditation, I discovered my intuitive gift and realized it could be of benefit to others. The more I do this work, the more it is apparent that this truly is what I was meant to do.

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Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: I have a doctorate in cognitive psychology from Princeton University and completed postdoctoral training at Columbia University Teachers College in child development and educational psychology. I am a licensed professional counselor and a certified distance counselor. I also studied with many gifted healers and intuitives.

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

Sessions can help clients to understand themselves better, identify personal strengths, make important decisions, resolve dysfunctional behavior and energy patterns, and learn to deal with life’s struggles in a more direct, empowering, and conscious way. Most clients experience immediate benefits after their first session, though many clients continue to work with me either regularly or periodically over a longer period of time. Clients can choose between 20- and 45-minute sessions. Intuitive consultations can be conducted either in person or over the phone.

How has your work/business evolved and/or what new are you offering for 2014 heading into 2015?

I am moving into a new, larger space and will be offering more groups and workshops, including healing visualizations and intuition development workshops.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

That it’s fun and accessible. The messages I receive are always life affirming.

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practitionerprofiles Joy Yascone

Maria C. Castillo

914-341-2070 Joy@JoysPantry.com AstrologicalLifeCoach.com Business/Practice summary and/ or services offered: 3rd generation intuitive, astrological life coach, MA Holistic Health

Joy Yascone

What drew you to this work as a profession?

I was drawn to wellness coaching due to my own personal transformative experience with astrology and holistic health. After a 20-year study of astrology and pursuing my M.A. in holistic health, I became a full-time intuitive and astrological life coach.

What training and/or certifications do you have?

I have a Masters of Arts in Holistic Health Studies and am a third generation intuitive. I have also studied astrology for over 20 years.

How long have you been practicing?

I‘ve been practicing professionally for 10 years. My grandmother, who was gifted, explained that I too had the gift as a child. That was confirmed for me when I would share insights with people about their path that was just part of my consciousness.

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

I utilize my client’s astrological chart with my intuitive gift and my academic training in holistic health to assist my clients in becoming whole and living abundant lives in career, finance, love and marriage. I also work with couples.

I meet with my clients on a weekly or bi-weekly basis.

During sessions, clients receive accurate timing of events, weekly assignments for life improvement based on their natal chart, and a life plan based on current planetary influences.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

I’m very spiritual and work with divine love and light energy.

I have worked with people from all walks of life. I’m very compassionate and love to see my client’s lives become successful and abundantly happy!

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natural awakenings

238 Monroe Tpke, Ste B, Monroe 203-445-8966 Maria@LifeBetweenLivesTherapy.com LifeBetweenLivesTherapy.com Business/Practice summary and/ or services offered: Maria C. Castillo is a bilingual, licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in private practice with over 25 years of experience.

Areas of specialty, training, and/ or special certifications: She received her MSW from Hunter College in New York City.

Maria has worked with a variety of clients and issues as a psychotherapist, taught social work as Maria Castillo an adjunct professor at a local university, and has appeared on television and radio shows. She weaves Reiki, hypnosis and relaxation/meditation techniques into her eclectic and holistic approach. Additionally, Maria holds certifications in hypnosis from The National Guild of Hypnotists and trained in past life regression with Brian Weiss, M.D. Maria is honored to have been a contributing author in Dr. Weiss’ latest book Miracles Happen: Transformational Healing Power of Past Life Memories. Two of her past life sessions with clients were featured in the book.

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

As a certified Life Between Lives Therapist trained by The Newton Institute and Michael Newton, Ph.D., she is available for private sessions as well as speaking engagements on the subject. She enjoys traveling the road along with her clients guiding them to find their own answers within by connecting their higher selves. Maria offers workshops to familiarize individuals with regression to past lives and the afterlife.

How has your work/business evolved and/or what new are you offering for 2014 heading into 2015?

In the past year, she added sound and Reiki healing in a group setting known as Healing Vibrations: A Journey Inward to her varied services.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

Maria’s motto: “We are all here to learn, to love, and to be happy. Let your inner wisdom guide you.”

Amy Boyer, LCSW

Center for Energy 120 Post Rd West, Ste 101, Westport 917-453-8936 AAmyBoyer@aol.com Business/Practice summary and/ or services offered: I offer holistic psychotherapy to support others in their journey of awakening and remembering their authentic self.

Amy Boyer

What drew you to this work as a profession?

I have been a seeker all my life.

My own healing journey has led the way for me to support others in theirs. It is my life’s work and my passion to help others move through the density of their issues and dysfunction and into a lighter more joyful life.

Areas of specialty, training and/or special certification: I am a LCSW with a master’s degree from Fordham University. Post-graduate studies include bioenergetics, drama therapy and energy work. I work with anxiety, depression, communication issues, life transitions, grief counseling, LGBTQ, trauma and stress.

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

As clients begin to work on the specific issue that brought them to therapy, they begin to unravel the conditioning that has held that issue in place. With this, most people begin to experience a deep shift, relaxing outdated defenses, reframing erroneous narratives, and experiencing a calm sense of knowing and trust within themselves. Together we determine the length of therapy that feels right for you in your journey.

I work in person, via Skype and phone.

How has your work/business evolved and/or what new are you offering for 2015?

I am opening a practice in Westport after 15 years of practice in NYC and upstate NY. I am so excited to be working with the wonderful people at the Center for Energy.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

I believe we are in the process of awakening. This is a time like no other. We all have an opportunity to work with the natural energies that are presently helping us shift our consciousness. I am dedicated to supporting others during this great transition.

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35

practitionerprofiles Mela Rispoli – Soul Focus 145 Grassy Plain St, Bethel 203-570-3868 Soul-Focus.me

Business/Practice summary and/ or services offered: Soul Focus is a spiritual wellness center, offering many modalities such as mediumship, Reiki, drumming, meditation classes, workshops and more.

Mela Rispoli

What drew you to this work as a profession?

I have connected to spirit all my life with my earliest recollection at four. I have further enhanced that ability with instruction from the most world-renowned teachers known today.

Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: I have trained with both those from the U.S. and abroad, capitalizing on my mediumship skills in all areas. I am also a Reiki practitioner.

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

Clients can expect to gain a better understanding of self, as well as valuable knowledge to move forward on their path of life.

Suzanne T. Pyle, MS, Certified Clinical Thermographer Founder of X to Rays Thermal Imaging, LLV 128 Seabright Ave, Bridgeport 866-XToRays or 203-331-2878 SuzannePyle@prodigy.net • XToRays.com

Business/Practice summary and/or services offered: X to Rays Thermal Imaging, LLC offers the latest in screening for breast cancer, carotid artery disease, thyroid dysfunction, lymph congestion deep vein thrombosis and other medical issues.

What drew you to this work as a profession?

Suzanne Pyle started her Suzanne Pyle company because she wanted to offer a safe way to monitor breast and body health. Growing up, she had had heavy radiation exposure through numerous x-rays thought necessary because her mother was a TB survivor.

Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: Suzanne was certified by the American Clinical College of Thermography and has been in business for the last 8 years.

How has your work/business evolved and/or what new are you offering for 2014 heading into 2015?

My business continues to evolve in all areas, offering ample opportunity for those wishing to explore their full potential.

We’re planning more exciting possibilities into the fall and year ahead.

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

Patients having a thermogram are amazed how easy and comfortable the whole experience is. There is no compresson, no radiation. After the scans are taken, they are sent through an intranet to fully trained, board-certified MD’s. The results are usually back within 48 hours.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

My concentration is on the evidence that we do not die and that love continues on. Our loved ones are always there wanting the best for us.

How has your work/business evolved and/or what new are you offering heading into 2015?

Suzanne travels to numerous medical offices throughout CT. She has now trained a nurse practitioner to help with her expanding practice.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

Suzanne emphasizes that thermograms do not replace mammograms, but they offer earlier warning signs that mammograms cannot. In these cases, thermograms help women become aware of breast conditions that can be changed through a healthier life style. Suzanne likes to tell women “Think beyond Pink!”

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natural awakenings

Ann’s Place, Inc

80 Saw Mill Rd, Danbury 203-790-6568 ClientServices@AnnsPlace.org AnnsPlace.org Business/Practice summary and/or services offered: Ann’s Place provides comfort, support and resources to people living with cancer and their loved ones. We offer individual and family counseling, support groups and wellness programs, all at no charge. We provide services to people living in Connecticut as well as eastern New York. At Ann’s Place, all are welcome.

Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: The clinical staff at Ann’s Place are trained in their area of expertise, whether by holding a masters in social work, counseling or a related mental health field, or specialized training in Yoga, Tai Chi, Horticultural Therapy, Healthy Steps (a dance/movement program), Reiki, or Art. The onsite clinical staff are all licensed as Clinical Social Workers by the State of CT. In addition, they are all members of NASW as well as the Association of Oncology Social Work.

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with your staff?

At Ann’s Place, we offer a variety of services and programs.

Some clients come for counseling so they can better cope with the feelings and changes brought about by a cancer diagnosis. The support groups, led by masters level professionals, offer a chance for people to meet with others who understand what they are going through. Our wellness programs provide opportunities for people to find ways to relax and find enjoyment as they live with cancer.

How has your work/business evolved and/or what new are you offering for 2014 heading into 2015?

In 2014, we began offering an excellent program entitled “Living Well with a Stage 4 or Incurable Cancer.” This program is led by Dr. Suz Brooks, a clinical psychologist who herself is living with a stage 4 cancer. This group meets monthly and explores how to move towards balance, wholeness and joy - how to “live well”.

This year, Kevin Berrill, LCSW began a midweek Mindfulness Meditation group which meets on Wednesdays. Mindfulness is non-judgmental awareness of whatever arises in the present moment. With gentle and consistent practice, training in mindfulness meditation can lead to greater ease, insight, acceptance and compassion.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

You are not alone…we are here to provide support and compassion as you learn to navigate life with cancer.

Alzbeta Peskova

Norwalk 203-326-0405 Info@Yoga2LifeCoaching.com Yoga2LifeCoaching.com Linkedin.com/Alzbeta-Peskova

Alzbeta Peskova

Business/Practice summary and/ or services offered: I am a life/mentor coach and a yoga instructor. Life can get very stressful and overwhelming and we tend to forget to ask whether we are truly satisfied with what we do and how we handle things. As a life coach, I help people to recognize and clarify areas in life that could be causing stress and learn to make better choices to avoid it. I work with my clients on managing their time better, finding balance between work and personal life, and using time effectively. Little changes can make life much more enjoyable.

What drew you to this work as a profession?

My desire to help people discover and achieve their dreams.

Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: Life/mentor coach, coach training alliance. Bikram yoga instructor.

What can a client expect from a session or series of sessions working with you?

First, I have a free consultation to determine the client’s needs and expectations and if we can find something to work on together. We then usually meet once a week for an hour. I use different kinds of exercise that help to open the client’s mind to see all perspectives that are available and let them choose the one that works for them the best. That way they become aware of their choices and realize how living can be just the way they imagine it.

How has your work/business evolved and/or what new are you offering for 2014 heading into 2015?

I am trying to evolve my business by staying educated and not letting any opportunity to learn something new pass by unnoticed.

What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work?

Happiness is a choice. Realizing and being aware of your choices will change your everyday life. Living your life aligned with what you want the most will make you and your family happy. eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2014

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healingways

healthy cycle of daytime sleepiness and nighttime wakefulness. Stepping outside for 10 minutes of sunlight and fresh air can stamp out sleepiness, says Breus, which is much healthier than reaching for a caffeine jolt or sugary snack.

Be a Better Napper

Midday Pick-Me-Up Well-Planned Naps Boost Brainpower

by Lane Vail

S

leep, along with nutrition and exercise, shapes the backbone of overall health, yet 40 percent of Americans get an insufficient amount, according to a recent Gallup survey, and the potential health risks are considerable. “Sleep deprivation affects every organ system and disease state,” and is associated with higher rates of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, cancer and mortality, says Michael Breus, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist in Scottsdale, Arizona, and founder of TheSleepDoctor.com.

“It’s best to get seven to eight hours of sleep in one big block at nighttime,” counsels Breus. Yet the circadian rhythm dictates two peaks of sleepiness

every 24 hours—one in the middle of the night and another 12 hours later, says Dr. Lawrence Epstein, director of the sleep medicine program at Boston’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital.

Interacting with the circadian rhythm is the homeostatic rhythm, which causes greater sleepiness the longer we’re awake. Both circadian and homeostatic sleepiness elevate by mid-afternoon, resulting in the familiar 4 p.m. slump.

Siesta cultures split sleep, notes Epstein, slightly reducing nighttime sleep, but devoting time midday to nap.

“Naps are a double-edged sword,” observes Epstein. While they help relieve short-term sleepiness, poorly planned naps can perpetuate an un-

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A study published in the Journal of Sleep Research suggests that merely falling asleep may initiate memory processing and cognitive consolidation, helping explain why German scientists found even six-minute naps to be rejuvenating. If substantial daytime sleep is needed to overcome a deficit, strive for 90 to 110 minutes, the length of time needed to complete a full sleep cycle.

Here are other practical tips.

Reflect on the rationale. “Boredom, laziness or avoiding work are the wrong reasons to nap,” says Amanda Chan, managing editor for healthy living at The Huffington Post, which instituted two cozy nap rooms in its New York headquarters after founder Arianna Huffington collapsed from exhaustion several years ago. A quick pick-me-up to boost mental agility and mood is a reasonable excuse to snooze.

Plan a prophylactic nap. Forestall late afternoon fatigue by napping between 1 and 3 p.m. Waiting until early evening to nap can interfere with nighttime sleep, advises Epstein.

Embrace darkness, coolness and quietude. Melatonin, “the key that starts the engine of sleep,” is suppressed by even the slightest amount of light, so wear eyeshades, suggests Breus. Keep a blanket and earplugs handy.

Lie down. If a bed or couch is unavailable, try napping on a yoga mat

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natural awakenings

Diane Bahr-Groth, CHy, TFTdx

on the floor. A chair should be reclined to support the lower back and avoid straining the neck from “bobblehead” syndrome, says Breus.

Power down. Setting an alarm for 10 to 25 minutes allows time for only the first two sleep stages: falling asleep and light sleep. Breus explains that sleeping longer than 25 minutes triggers deep sleep, from which waking results in sleep inertia, or grogginess, that impairs mood, decision-making and motor skills.

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Napping at Work

While many progressive businesses such as Google, Apple and Zappos permit or even promote workplace napping, most companies are still skeptical.

“We live in a culture that minimizes the importance of sleep,” comments Epstein. “We prize productivity and think it shows worker loyalty to put in excessive amounts of time.”

Ironically, mounting research suggests that napping may boost the brainpower needed to function at peak performance. A recent study found that nightshift air-traffic controllers that napped for 19 minutes showed better vigilance and reaction times than nonnappers. Other documented benefits include better concentration, memory and creativity.

Seek out a sleep sanctuary at work, such as an office with the door closed and blinds drawn, an unused conference room with a couch, or a first-aid office cot, suggests Chan. Another option is to nap in the car, but Breus insists that nappers tell colleagues where they’re going as a precaution. Better yet, bond with a “nap buddy” willing to read nearby during snooze time.

“You’re very vulnerable when you’re asleep,” he says. “Be safe.”

If sleeping is not currently condoned in the workplace, consider approaching the human resources department with information on the positive effects of appropriate napping on work performance, says Epstein. Suggest implementing a sleep wellness program, which can offer education on sleep deprivation, techniques to improve sleep and individual screening for sleep disorders.

Lane Vail is a freelance writer and blogger at DiscoveringHomemaking.com.

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139 Main Street Norwalk, CT 06851 203-840-1991 November 2014

39

INSPIRED

TABLE

inspiredtablenewsbriefs Ridgefield’s Food Evolution Unveils Fall/Winter Menu

F

ood Evolution is rolling out their new whole food, plant-based fall menus for lunch and dinner. There are now separate lunch and dinner menus, a new dessert menu, and a kid-approved new children’s menu. The restaurant’s ingredients are 100 percent plant-based, supportive of people, animals, and the environment.

“We use whole foods, whole grains, no GMO foods, and an increasing amount of organic produce and grains” says owner Elizabeth Berney. “Some highlights of our new menu include the Pumpkin Cassoulet (recipe listed on page 45), Savory Vegetable Pot Pie, General Tso’s Seitan, Asian Chopped Organic Kale Salad and Buffalo Cauliflower Wings.”

New desserts include Pumpkin Creme Brûlée, Oven Roasted Banana Rum Cheesecake, Chocolate Mousse and Key Lime Pie. Fall specialty cocktails like Apple Cider Margarita are also being offered throughout the season.

Food Evolution is located at 109 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield. For hours and to view full menus or other information, visit Foodevolutionct.com or email BerbeyFoodInnovations@gmail.com.

Westport Winter Market Opens November 15

F

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

203-885-4674 40

Fairfield County Edition

airfield County residents accustomed over the summer to enjoying the organic produce and goods from Westport Farmers’ Market, take heart! The winter market at Gilbertie’s Herb Gardens in Westport opens on November 15.

Through the winter, a variety of fresh vegetables will be available including freshly harvested root crops like parsnips, celery root (celeriac), turnips and rutabagas. Carrots, potatoes and garlic as well as herbs, greens and mushrooms will provide shoppers all the ingredients needed for fall’s hearty soups and stews. Vendors—not yet announced—will also offer farm-fresh eggs, meats, cheeses, breads and baked goods, pastas, honey, jams and jellies, and maple syrup.

Open year-round, Gilbertie’s Herb Gardens offers a wide selection of annuals and perennials, landscape products, and USDA Certified Organic herbs and vegetables. In addition, they offer lectures and seminars to support year-round garden preparation, maintenance and enjoyment.

Gilbertie’s Herb Gardens is located at 7 Sylvan Ln, Westport. For more information, visit GilbertiesHerbs.com.

natural awakenings

Healing is Just a Cup Away

by Kimberly DuBois

R

egarded for thousands of years

by Native Americans to be a key to good health, medicinal herbal teas can assist you in a myriad of ways.

Whether you are treating an acute ailment such as the common cold or seeking long-term benefits such as toning and strengthening the organ systems, an article published by the USDA in 2011 indicated drinking herbal tea is a gentle yet effective way to boost overall health and well-being. Consider creating a daily ritual of drinking an herbal tea blend. Toronto-based herbalist Marcia Dixon supports this idea. “If you drink tea every day, you can make all sorts of significant changes to your mood, your skin, your sense of well-being and energy.”

Herbal teas are rich in nutrients, particularly minerals readily absorbed

by the body without stressing the digestive system. It’s much like a super food that can heal the body gently because of the uptake of nutrients. “In a lot of ways, we might get more benefit from a good organic tea than from a vitamin pill,” says Canadian herbalist Marianne Beacon of Elderberry Herbals in Peterborough, Ontario. A great benefit of this is that when you consume a particular blend over time, it can strengthen and tone organ systems creating long-lasting benefits. When an herbal blend is targeting a particular outcome and is prepared properly, a medicinal effect can be achieved.

It is important to have a proper method of infusion to achieve medicinal effects. Use a proper steeping vessel like a French press or a tea maker that allows the herbs to steep loose while

staying covered. Cover your brew immediately so the volatile oils from the herbs, valuable toward effectiveness, do not escape into the air. “Otherwise, your room smells nice but you’re not retaining the medicinal properties,” explains Dixon.

Begin by measuring 1 tbsp. of herb per cup of water into the steeping vessel. To fill an average 16-ounce mug, it generally takes up to be 2 tbsp. of herb for 2 cups water. Pour just-boiled water over herbs, cover to steep for 15-20 minutes and then strain.

As the cooler months of the year approach, we all seem to need extra support. Drinking a medicinal tea can provide just that, while also providing comforting warmth. It is a little known fact that certain organ systems are more vulnerable in each season of the year.

During the winter months teas to boost your kidneys and bladder are beneficial, such as a blend of herbs like nettle leaf, alfalfa, chamomile, marshmallow root and oat straw. Targeting herbs to tone and calm your nervous system during the holiday season stress can also be helpful. A suggestion is to blend herbs such as lemon balm, chamomile, skullcap, spearmint, lavender and passionflower.

Something as simple and affordable as brewing up a favorite herbal tea can have great impact on your health.

This time-honored medicine has been proven powerful over millennia. Simply choose a single herb, or blend for your particular needs, and a steeping vessel of choice, then enjoy while you do your body good.

Kimberly DuBois is a teacher, healer and reflexologist. She is the creator of Turtle Moon Health, a plant medicine-based company based in Greenwich, offering products for everyday use. For more information, visit TurtleMoonHealth.com or email Info@TurtleMoonHealth.com.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2014

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URBAN FARMING IN BRIDGEPORT Green Village Initiative Empowers Communities

by Leslie McLean

U

y

rban farming nationwide is progressing quickly and should be a primary focus for sustainable business development. Community farms in an urban environment have a positive effect on all local citizens because the ability to grow fresh and organic food—which is shared—allows people to feel they can survive well as part of a local team. Planting the seeds and growing and harvesting the vegetables create a new history which has a significant impact on the community as well as the individuals’ value and appreciation of food. Youth are now becoming part of this history, which will transform their concept of what healthy food is and the option to grow their own produce.

Green Village Initiative (GVI) has now completed the first urban farm in the city of Bridgeport. GVI (Gogvi.org) is a Fairfield County grassroots nonprofit organization that creates social, economic and environmental change through local action. Through the urban Reservoir Community Farm (Gogvi. org/Reservoir-Community-Farm.html), school gardens and an internship program, GVI is on the ground in Bridgeport creating jobs, growing healthy local food, educating people around health and obesity, beautifying inner city areas and empowering youth. Currently, there are 24 schools with edible gardens in Bridgeport. GVI partnered with the city to build these gardens while interns maintain them during the

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

summer. Donated seedlings are planted and then harvested by students and interns for “salad days” at all the schools.

The urban farm in Bridgeport has over 100 raised garden beds, all built by volunteers. All food grown on the farm is served in the Bridgeport Public Schools and sold to the local neighborhood at subsidized prices. The farm is growing all types of tomatoes, peppers, squash, cucumbers, potatoes, beans, collards, kale, lettuce and other produce. It is quite a bonus for students to learn what can grow in Connecticut during which season and the significance of local harvest.

Sustainable business, with respect to agriculture, has again become popular at universities. Young adults are becoming more passionate about protecting the planet, the well-being of animals, and being able to grow food that can support a community.

Internships are motivating students to learn about their interests instead of just taking a random job. GVI sponsors more than 40 high school and college internships each growing season at the Bridgeport Farm and School Gardens.

Students are given the opportunity to work on farms, edible school gardens and in the GVI office learning techniques such as building gardens and

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Young adults are becoming more passionate about protecting the planet, the well-being of animals, and being able to grow food that can support a community. establishing community relations. Interns also host field trips to the farm for Bridgeport students, teaching valuable and essential facts on composting, planting, nutritional information, seeds, and healthy alternatives for sugar.

Green Village Initiative is working collaboratively with municipalities, school systems and a wide range of nonprofit and for-profit organizations to create real change. This partnership includes working with CT Food System Alliance (CtFoodAlliance.com) on food sustainability in Connecticut.

There is already a School Garden Resource Center operating at Common Ground High School in New Haven that supports edible school gardens statewide (CommonGroundCt. org/Environmental-Center/School-Garden-Resource-Center).

This community commitment to build and support edible gardens will hopefully set a long-lasting intention for generations to come.

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Leslie McLean is a contributing writer for Natural Awakenings Fairfield County. She is co-chair for Easton/Redding Community Coalition and a sales/marketing consultant with a focus on sustainable agriculture and animal therapy. Connect with her at 203-470-4435 or LeslieMcLean@optonline.net.

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localfarmsguide As the weather changes, the options available at Fairfield County’s many local and organic farms also evolve. Some offer Fall/Winter CSA programs while others focus on offering educational activities throughout the colder months. Call or plan a visit to these local and organic farms for unique produce and programs.

AMBLER FARM 257 Hurlbutt Road, Wilton 203-834-1143 AmblerFarm@gmail.com AmblerFarm.org • Farm stand: open Saturdays from 9am–2pm, changes seasonally • Organic practices, CT NOFA Farmer’s Pledge • Restoration and preservation of all buildings on this historical 22-acre farm are in progress or completed • Annual events are community-driven • Future events include: The Art of Wreath Party, Holiday Greens Sale, Valentine’s Tea •Additional offerings: summer farm camp (preschool and K-7), farm apprentice program, maple sugaring, farm-to-table special events, facility rental available, live animals (sheep, goats, rabbits, chickens and bees), dog-friendly • Non profit funded GARDEN OF IDEAS 647 North Salem Road, Ridgefield 203-431-9914 Friendsofgoi@gmail.com GardenofIdeas.com • Farm stand: open daily from 8am–dusk, April–November • Organic practices, CSA • Current eommunity events: Family Yoga Workshop, Spinning Wool and Knitting, Yoga on Saturdays, 4-H Group for children ages 8-12 • Additional offerings: botanical gardens and garden tours, educational workshops, art gallery • Non profit funded

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Fairfield County Edition

THE HICKORIES 136 Lounsbury Road, Ridgefield 203-894-1851 Info@TheHickories.org TheHickories.org • Farm store: open daily from 11am– 6pm except for several national holidays • USDA-Certified Organic, CSA, pastureraised meat (chicken, pigs, goats, sheep) • Produce also available at Le Farm and The Whelk • Additional offerings: farm tours and field trips, seedlings for farmers and gardeners, farm-to-table and special events • For-profit farm HOLBROOK FARM 45 Turkey Plain Road, Bethel 203-792-0561 Info@HolbrookFarm.net HolbrookFarm.net • Farm market and bakery: open Monday through Saturday from 9am-6pm • A family farm for over 40 years • Organic practices, CT NOFA Farmer’s Pledge, no pesticides and herbicides for the last 30 years, eggs from free-range chickens • Produce available through CT Farm Fresh Express • Thanksgiving Turkeys available through November 22. These turkeys are from a local farm in CT. Limited quantities • Additional offerings: educational workshops, farm-to-table dinners, live animals (chickens, cats) • For-profit farm HUBBARD HEIGHTS FARM 202 Hubbard Avenue, Stamford HubbardHeightsFarm@outlook.com HubbardHeightsFarm.com • Farm stand: open Tuesday through Friday from 2pm-6pm and weekends from 10am-4pm, changes seasonally • Organic practices, CSA, CT NOFA Farmer’s Pledge, greenhouse, hybrid heirloom tomatoes and excellent soil • Fall objective is to finish the “permanent home for the chickens” • For-profit farm

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SPORT HILL FARM 596 Sport Hill Road, Easton FarmGal596@gmail.com SportHillFarm.com • Farm market: open Monday through Saturday from 9am-6pm, Wednesdays until 7pm and Sundays from 11am5pm. Hours subject to change • Market products are locally sourced and have no additives, preservatives, high fructose corn syrup or chemically processed sweeteners or artificial food coloring or flavors. All animals are pasture-raised, grass-fed and humanely treated. Gluten-free options available • Organic practices, CSA, no GMOs, eggs from pasture-raised chickens • Additional offerings: cash crop program, wholesale for chefs and caterers, farm camp (at The Unquowa School in Fairfield, preschool and K-6), educational hub and seasonal events • Sport Hill encourages class trips, birthday parties, private events and internships • For-profit farm STICKS AND STONES FARM 201 Huntingtown Road, Newtown 203-270-8820 SandSFarm@aol.com SticksAndStonesFarm.com • Organic garden and practices • Rural and rustic 60-acre farm with significant wildlife • Spaces for a community of artists and craftsmen, naturalists and environmentalists to converge and flourish • New community events include Drum Circle, Ukulele Club, Sanskrit and Chanting Class, Woodworking classes and Iyengar Yoga • Additional offerings: moss and stone harvesting and shop, apprentice program, rustic cabin and tent platform rentals, labyrinth, hiking trails and retreat options.

• Sticks and Stones also offers a fall month meditation program near Hilo, Hawaii on the Big Island. Visit website to explore this option • For-profit farm

WAKEMAN TOWN FARM 134 Cross Highway, Westport 203-557-9195 WakemanTownFarm@gmail.com WakemanTownFarm.org • CSA pick up location for Stone Gardens Farm.

Fall hours are on Thursday 12-7pm, Winter pick up is bi-weekly on Thursday.

• Organic and sustainable practices, CT NOFA Farmer’s Pledge, CSA, homestead, open to the public (farm visits should be prearranged) • Animal husbandry, live animals (goats, chickens, sheep, rabbits and ducks) • Additional offerings: farm tours, solar and wind technologies, apprentice and after-school programs, adult educational workshops, land stewardship, farm-to-table dinners and special events, volunteer advisory board • December 6th will feature the farm’s Christmas tree and greenery event from 10am-5pm. Trees for sale come from local grower Gilberties • 2015 focus will be on Raise the Roof, a Fairfield County campaign to earn money for a new roof for the main barn • Non profit educational farming demonstration facility NEW POND FARM 101 Marchant Rd, West Redding 203-938-2117 Info@NewPondFarm.org NewPondFarm.org • Small, private CSA with only 30 members • This 102 acre farm’s focus is on environmental education.

Annual programs include astronomy, the growing of vegetables, herbs and Native American education with authentically-recreated encampment. Farm programs include milking cows, sheep, chickens and roosters.

• Learning center includes a classroom and spacious meeting areas used for art shows, adult lectures, barn dances and other events • Designated a CT Dairy Farm of Distinction in 2007.

Freshly pasteurized milk and yogurt available for purchase at Dairy Annex • 2015 will be the 30th anniversary of New Pond Farm • Non profit charitable organization

FOOD EVOLUTION’S

Pumpkin Cassoulet

Served In A Cast Iron Skillet A plant-based, gluten-free main dish or side dish for the holiday table.

INGREDIENTS: 3 Tbsp olive oil 2 Tbsp garlic, minced 2 onions, thinly sliced 4 cans (14½ oz each) cannellini or white kidney beans, drained and rinsed 2 lbs pumpkin, peeled, seeded, and cut into ½-inch pieces 1 lb butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into ½-inch pieces 2 cups vegetable broth ½ tsp dried thyme 2 tsp salt 1 tsp ground black pepper 1 cup gluten free breadcrumbs 3 Tbsp blanched almonds, ground 1 Tbsp nutritional yeast ¼ tsp lemon zest PROCEDURE: • Preheat the oven to 375O. • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Then, add onions and sauté until soft and translucent, stirring occasionally.

• Reduce heat and add beans, pumpkin, butternut squash, vegetable broth, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cover and let simmer for about 1 hour.

• Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, almonds, nutritional yeast, and lemon zest.

• Once the pumpkin and butternut squash mixture is tender, transfer into a large cast iron skillet. Sprinkle with the breadcrumb mixture. Place the cast iron skillet into oven and bake, uncovered, until breadcrumbs are browned, about 10-15 minutes. Serve hot and enjoy!

Food Evolution is located at 109 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield. To view menus or get other information, visit FoodEvolutionCT. com or email BerbeyFoodInnovations@gmail.com.

From Vermont farms and our country kitchen… straight to your fridge or table.

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FEEL THE LOVE

Photo from RFK Jr. lecture at WCSU: Left to right: Dr. Averell Manes, Conflict Resolution Project; Dr. Lisa Worth Huber, National Peace Academy; Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.; Dr. Laurie Weinstein, Executive Director, Jane Goodall Center for Excellence in Environmental Studies.

Reach Out to Make Caring Connections.

Advertise in

Natural Awakenings’ December Natural Beauty and Awakening Humanity Issue

by Lisa Worth Huber

S

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

203-885-4674 48

Fairfield County Edition

Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. on Our Environmental Destiny aying the nation was on the brink of a moral as well as environmental catastrophe during a presentation at Western Connecticut State University (WCSU) in Danbury on September 20, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. pleaded for Americans to live with the understanding that everything is connected—what affects one, affects all.

“There is no way to remove mountaintops without impacting the rest of the world,” Kennedy said.

“There is no way to drop PCPs into the Housatonic River and not compromise people’s health.”

natural awakenings

A long-time defender of the environment, Kennedy was named one of Time magazine’s “Heroes for the Planet” for his success in helping Riverkeeper lead the fight to restore the Hudson River. The group’s achievement helped spawn more than 160 Waterkeeper organizations across the globe.

“It’s important to remember that our landscape connects us to our past and to the 10,000 generations who lived before us, and it is essential we do everything within our power to ensure there is wilderness for future generations to explore,” said Ken-

nedy at the WCSU event, which was sponsored by the Jane Goodall Center for Excellence in Environmental Studies.

Shared resources—air, wind, water, fisheries, wildlife and public lands – are the assets of the whole community—not just a select few, Kennedy reminded the audience.

Koch Industries, Exxon and other energy companies are creating a corporate kleptocracy in the country, working toward changing the nation’s democracy to an oligarchy of the wealthy and few, he suggested. “We cannot let them steal what belongs to all of us. Everyone has a right to use the commons,” Kennedy said.

Kennedy’s environmental leadership is legion. He serves as president for Waterkeeper Alliance, as senior attorney for the Natural Resources Defense Council, and is chief prosecuting attorney for the Hudson Riverkeeper.

Kennedy also serves as a partner on the CleanTech investment team of Silicon Valley’s VantagePoint Capital Ventures and co-hosts the Ring of Fire radio show. Among his numerous published articles and books are The New York Times bestsellers Crimes Against Nature (2004) and The Riverkeepers (1997). He is also a licensed master falconer.

He has grave concerns over the way coal companies are destroying the land and polluting waterways. During his talk, he referenced the documentary film, The Last Mountain, which tells the story of mountaintop removal in Appalachia. The movie spotlights Kennedy’s environmental activism and legal leadership. Stressing the need for good environmental policy, he said, “No one benefits when we diminish nature’s wealth. There have been over 500 mountains destroyed in Appalachia your children will never see.”

The nation needs to look at the hidden costs of oil, which is the wealthiest industry in the history of humankind. Look to the success of Iceland, he said. Back in the 1970s, they decarbonized, went local geo-thermal, and through wise energy investments, moved from being one of the poorest countries in Europe to the fifth richest country in the world.

In the same way Eisenhower enhanced the U.S. by investing in the national highway system, Kennedy said the community needs to create a similar grid for alternative energy. “Make it ubiquitous. Make it affordable—solar by day, wind at night,” he advised.

Kennedy left the audience energized and hopeful by stressing the need to revitalize the marketplace so the market better serves the public interest. “It’s possible, to change this devastating trajectory,” he said. “We have the knowledge, the passion and the resources. Let’s make it cheap, green and clean.”

Lisa Worth Huber, PhD, is Secretary for the National Peace Academy (co-sponsors for this event). A consultant and facilitator, she works with businesses, schools, and community organizations addressing conflict concerns and building compassionate communities. She is the Academic Director for the MA program in Conflict Transformation at The Graduate Institute in Bethany. LisaWorthhHuber.com, email: LisaHuber@earthink.net.

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MIDLIFE MOTHERHOOD One Pathway to a New 21st Century Family Model

by Cyma Shapiro

M

idlife. Motherhood. Until recently, the two words were never conjoined. Midlife was the anticipated time to send your children off to college, change careers or pursue retirement because motherhood was for the young. Today that trend is changing due to breakthroughs in medical technologies, breakdown of the traditional family unit and new socioeconomic freedoms for women.

The very definition of what constitutes a “family” has been shattered. We’re in the midst of experiencing a redefinition

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of the family model for the 21st century.

According to the most recent Center for Disease Control (CDC) statistics, more than one million women over 40 have now become mothers through natural childbirth in the U.S. alone.

There are no comprehensive statistics, central databases or clearinghouses for alternative options for pursuing parenthood, including surrogacy, adoption, fostering/guardianship and blending stepfamilies. If included, the numbers could be expected to be exponentially higher. With the gestational life of a

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women most often ending around age 40-44, it is indeed these very alternatives which are providing appealing options to older women—and now men —who might not have previously been able to achieve their dream of having a family and parenthood.

One in 7 children are now born to women age 35 and older. The rate increases have been sharpest for women in the oldest age groups: 47 percent for women ages 35-59 and 80 percent for women ages 40-44. The delay in the age of motherhood has been shown to be directly correlated to the growing educational attainment this group has secured. Statistics have shown that the more education a woman has, the later she tends to marry and have children

Here are profiles of five midlife mothers whose paths to midlife motherhood are as diverse as they are pioneering.

Joely Johnson was 39 when she married and 42 when she had her first child; her husband was 36 and 39, respectively. “I am not sure any kind of nuclear family is a good fit for people today regardless of modern variations,” said Johnson. “It’s hard for children when both parents work, it’s also hard on any parent who opts to be the stay-at-home caregiver.” She adds, “It’s doubly or triply hard on everyone if you don’t have a fairly large community of other parents or blood relatives nearby.”

To Hanni Beyer Lee, the traditional model never felt like it applied to her, although she tried marriage to a man, and adopted three children. “I was 23 when I had my son, Casey,” said Beyer Lee, “and raised him completely as a single parent. I adopted my first daughter when I was 42, my second when I was 43, and my third when I was 47. I was raised by a very progressive, educated and hard-working woman during the 1960s and 70s. Although I went through periods of wanting to fit in as a child and wishing I had a dad like most others – my father died when I was 3 years old – I think I deeply internalized what family life was like through my mother.”

After 16 years of marriage, DeAnna Scott was 46 when her surrogate gave birth to her twins. “We chose a surrogate to fulfill our dreams of be-

coming parents,” she said. “It was not the path we envisioned we would take, but the one that we could have only taken as older parents.” She explained her life choices with reflection. “In my younger years, I was focused on building my career. My husband and I didn’t put much thought into having children except to say, ‘if it happens, it happens.’ However, we never expected to wait 15 more years to bring our babies home. When we were ready to have kids, we found we had unexplained infertility and couldn’t conceive on our own. Even if we had wanted to follow true to the traditional family model, we couldn’t.”

Regarding new older parenting, Scott thinks the trend towards creating families in midlife is both wonderful and refreshing. “I suspect there will be a generation of children born to parents who had accomplished their goals and ‘lived life’ prior to having children, and with a more rounded perspective,” she said. “I feel that children can benefit significantly from this.”

The later-parenthood-path need

not be seen as late. “I got married at 39, and my husband was 44,” said Randi Hoffman. “A year later, it seemed like this marriage would probably last. I got pregnant at 40, and gave birth to my daughter at 41. She is now almost 14.”

To Hoffman and her friends, this later path to motherhood is not at all unusual. “We weren’t ready to settle down in our twenties - we were too busy travelling the world, getting graduate degrees or having other adventures,” she said. “Speaking for myself, I think we are more emotionally and financially secure now than we were in our twenties.”

“I still think the traditional family model works for many people,” said 49-year-old Melanie Elliott. “But in our case, assisted reproductive technology didn’t work for us. We still wanted to be parents, so we chose adoption; I became a mom at 45.” She adds, “I love that families can be formed a myriad of ways - through surrogacy, ART and adoption. Often older parents need these paths to parenthood. We may have more cricks and aches, but there’s

an added maturity of life experiences and intention that older parents can bring to parenting.”

Five women. Five diverse paths to midlife motherhood. All of them marching to their own beat and achieving their intended goal of motherhood and having a family.

Although much discussion has transpired regarding this burgeoning phenomenon and related topics such as same-sex parenting, the trend is not likely to reverse itself in the near future.

Many times, women and men will stop at nothing to become mothers and fathers, when the(ir) time is right.

Cyma Shapiro is the writer and the creator of NURTURE: Stories of New Midlife Mothers, the first art gallery show dedicated to women choosing motherhood over 40, and the MotheringintheMiddle.com blogsite. She recently published The Zen of Midlife Mothering, an anthology by and for midlife mothers and fathers. Connect with her at MidlifeMothers@gmail.com.

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petbriefs Bully Breed Blog Unleashed

The Monthly Naturally Healthy Pet Section Starts Here!

T

he Bully Breed Blog launched this month to help pet parents with questions they may have about bully breeds. This is a category which includes English Bulldogs, American Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Staffordshire Terriers, American Pit Bulls, and many more related breeds and crosses.

BullyBreedBlog.com was founded by Danbury residents Crystal Dupre and Gege Marco, who are both moms to bully breed dogs and have more than 17 combined years of experience with dog behavior, training and shelter experience.

They have worked together to create a realistic and entertaining resource for pet parents about topics such as appropriate toys and play, nutrition, DIY healthy treat recipes, frugal toy how-to’s, the adoption process and the do’s and don’ts of being a parent to a bully breed dog. At launch, the blog will also focus on fun ways to enjoy the holidays with pets and how to include them in holiday activities.

“Our goal is to be a resource for all bully breed parents, something that we didn’t have when we adopted our bully pups,” Dupre and Marco explain.

“Healthy living isn’t simply for humans, it’s for our bully companions as well. We hope to guide pet parents in how to provide a healthy lifestyle for this awesome breed family.”

The Bully Breed Blog will deliver information through articles, video entries, rescue and vet reviews, and a breed of the month feature. Followers are also encouraged to submit pictures and/or videos of their own bully breed pets.

For more information, visit BullyBreedBlog.com or email BullyBreedBlog@gmail.com.

News, articles, resources, events… all dedicated exclusively to happy, naturally healthy living for our furred, feathered and scaled animal companions.

For information on how you can be a part of a future issue, call

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

52

Fairfield County Edition

Thanksgiving Pie Fundraiser in Stratford

N

utmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic and FeralCare Inc. are teaming with Oronoque Farms Bakery to hold the third annual Thanksgiving Pie Fundraiser.

Available in seven different flavors—apple, apple crumb, blueberry, blueberry crumb, cherry, cherry crumb, and pumpkin—each pie is 9-inches and costs $16 per pie. The pies must be ordered by November 14 and picked up on November 21 between noon-6pm at the clinic. They are delivered frozen and uncooked, ready to be baked fresh for the holiday.

The Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic is a low-cost, high-volume facility for cats and dogs, the first such professional clinic in Fairfield County. Since its opening in August 2012, Nutmeg has successfully altered more than 4,000 animals, preventing unwanted births and prolonging the quality of life for every animal that enters the clinic. The clinic offers other low-cost services only during the spay/neuter appointment such as basic vaccines, feline leukemia/AIDS testing, heartworm testing for dogs, topical parasite treatment, microchipping, ear cleaning and nail trims.

To order holiday pies, visit nutmegclinic.org/pies-pets between now and November 14 or call 203-690-1550. Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic is located at 25 Charles St, Stratford. See ad, page 57.

natural awakenings

Newtown Animal Sanctuary Honor’s Child’s Memory

A

t the end of September, Governor Dannel P. Malloy and state lawmakers deeded approximately 34.44 acres of land in Newtown to the Catherine Violet Hubbard Foundation, Inc. during a ceremonial bill signing of Special Act 14-13, which facilitates the transfer of the state-owned land for the creation of an animal sanctuary and wildlife preserve.

The Catherine Violet Hubbard Foundation and Animal Sanctuary were born from its namesake’s love of all animals. Catherine Hubbard died tragically at the age of six at Sandy Hook

Elementary School, but her parents determined that her legacy will live on by offering refuge and improving the lives of abused, abandoned and neglected animals. They asked for donations to The Animal Center in Newtown in lieu of flowers when their daughter was killed and later partnered with the Center to create the vision for the Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary to honor their daughter’s love for animals.

The sanctuary, now in phase one of development, is intended to be a national model for providing a safe haven and place of serenity for animals in need of healing support. In addition, it will serve as a central hub for people to come together to connect with animals, nature and one another by offering: • Companion animal adoption programs • Farm animal refuge • Wildlife rehabilitation and release • Organic community gardens • Nature-based workshops and wellness programs

land is located within the Fairfield Hills property located near Old Farm Road in Newtown. The complete site plan includes a community garden, learning center, library, rescue cottage, barns, canine and feline communities, butterfly gardens, walking trails and more.

For more information on the sanctuary, visit CvhFoundation.org or call 203313-8391. Inquiries can be emailed to Info@CvhFoundation.org and donations can be sent to PO Box 3571, Newtown.

Beauty is

whatever gives joy. ~Edna St. Vincent Millay

All donations go directly to the establishment of the sanctuary. The parcel of

Passage East Boarding Kennels “Compassionate care for all breeds since 1967”

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stressed, our bodies release adrenaline and cortisol. The same happens too for our pets. When these “stress hormones” are released into a pet’s body, the heart and respiratory rate, as well as the aging process, speed up. In addition, these chemicals inhibit the immune system, reduce blood flow to the brain, and shut down the reproductive system.

A secondary effect of a suppressed reproductive system is cardiovascular disease, in both people and pets.

CAUSES OF STRESS IN PETS

Over-stressed family members: When you are stressed, your bodies release adrenaline and cortisol hormones.

A pet’s sense of smell is greater than yours and they are able to perceive these hormones on you. They look to you as their pack leader so if you are worried, there must be something to worry about.

Change in diet: The holiday season can disrupt a pet’s normal diet and feeding schedule. Holiday food is richer, higher in fat and more available.

The Holiday Season and Stress in Pets

by Mary Oquendo

I

t’s already November and the holiday season has begun with its higher stress levels for both humans and pets. We know what makes us feel stressed at this time of year, but are you

aware of what’s happening for your pets?

Studies have shown a similarity between the effects of stress on your bodies and that of pets. When we are

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Fairfield County Edition

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Change in routine: You spend more time away from home shopping and visiting.

Extra visitors in your home: Your pet’s senses are in overload. There may be children running around trying to touch them, as well as adults using different or too much perfume or cologne. Your house may be louder than normal with tasty temptations everywhere. Visitors may also include other pets traveling with your guests.

Travel: Visiting out of area friends and relatives is disruptive regardless of whether your pets are boarded or travel with you.

STRESS INDICATORS IN PETS

You may notice your pet suffering from depression, restlessness, exhaustion, and lack of appetite. Pets may exhibit aggressive, destructive, or obsessive compulsive behavior. A stressed pet is more likely to bite. Stressed animals may vocalize more. And, as mentioned above, they may experience physi-

cal ailments related to the immune, digestive, respiratory, and circulatory systems.

WAYS TO RELIEVE PETS’ DISTRESS

• Provide a quiet place for your pet to escape. It can be as simple as allowing them to be in a bedroom and closing the door. Cover crates with a sheet for privacy.

• Infuse your dog’s area with lavender essential oil in a diffuser. Do not use essential oils with cats or other pets with respiratory issues or around birds at all.

• Do not use candles with essential oils, as it may be a fire hazard.

Add soothing music to the environment.

• Give size-appropriate toys for mental stimulation.

• Keep to their normal diet and feeding schedule.

• If traveling, plan well. Let’s Go Fido II is an eBook I have written filled with many tips for safe and stress-free traveling, including boarding your pets.

• Give pets extra exercise. Movements dissipate both adrenaline and cortisol, resulting in calmer pets.

• An energetic space clearing removes built up negative energy that accumulates from day to day living and replaces it with fresh, positive energy.

Use protective and grounding stones around your home; this will benefit the entire household during the busy time of year. Keep them out of reach of chewers. Any brown, black, red, yellow or pink stones are a good choice.

Over the holiday season, paying attention to your pet’s stress level while actively taking steps to counteract stress’ effects on an animal’s mind and body will result in a much happier holiday for all. In addition, these changes will have an all around positive change in your life throughout the year.

Mary Oquendo is a Reiki master, advanced crystal master and certified master pet tech pet first aid instructor.

She is the co-owner of Hands and Paws-Reiki for All in New Milford. She can be reached at HandsandPawsReiki.com.

Since 2008, we have rescued more than 1000pure and mixed breed dogs and cats from death row and placed them in foster and forever homes!

We are a foster-based, no-kill rescue dedicated to saving the lives of homeless, neglected, and abused animals by providing a safe refuge, rehabilitation, and permanent homes.

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ADOPT • FOSTER • DONATE • VOLUNTEER www.TheLastResortRescue.com • TheLastResortRescue@gmail.com The Last Resort is a 501(c) non-profit, volunteer-run organization.

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Tips for Deciding to Bring or Not to Bring

by Donna Gleason

W

ith the holidays approaching, chances are your plans may involve some form of travel. Determining if you should bring your family pet with you is difficult whether it is an overnight excursion or an extended trip. A good place to start is to take an inventory of your type of travel and then determine where your pet would be happiest.

Does your dog need routine and consistency?

B

e thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough. ~Oprah Winfrey

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natural awakenings

Some dogs are happiest when life is predictable. Sometimes pets that need routine and consistency can benefit from staying in familiar surroundings with a trusted pet sitter. According to Derek Dermane, owner of Home Sweet Home - Dog Walking and Pet Sitting, “The best way to prepare a pet to stay at home with a pet care provider is to make sure everyone has ample time to meet beforehand so that a relationship can be developed before the date of the actual trip. In the end, it is all about trust. If a pet is comfortable with their pet care provider, the owner will be able to relax and enjoy their vacation knowing that their pet is in good hands.”

Does my dog have the right amount of energy for the trip we are taking?

Bringing your dog on a vacation where he will be left alone with limited opportunities for physical stimulation may not be the best choice for a high energy pet. Conversely, taking a dog who is a couch potato on a camping/hiking trip through the Appalachian Trail may also not be a good fit.

When planning a vacation, take into consideration the energy level of your dog and if you are going to be able to take care of that need based on your planned itinerary. You

might wish to consider boarding your pet. Typically, boarding facilities are either cage-free or have individualized kennels.

Get referrals and recommendations and visit the facility prior to making any boarding decisions.

Does your dog have any health issues?

There are multiple questions that need to be considered if traveling with a pet with special needs. Does your dog get car sick on long trips? Does your dog have joint issues that mean traveling for long distances exacerbate his level of pain? Does your dog require certain bedding to alleviate pain? Are you traveling with a senior dog? Sometimes senior dogs may be taking medications that are necessary for their survival. If that is the case, will you or someone else be able to consistently give the needed medications throughout the entire vacation?

Note: Whether your pet is traveling with you or you are leaving your pet at a boarding facility, always have the following documents available: • Current copy of your pet’s medical records • Medications (including dosages and how administered) • Proof of vaccinations (including rabies) • Pre-existing medical conditions

Does the environment where you are staying offer pet-friendly accommodations?

Doing your research beforehand when planning a pet-friendly vacation can be worth its weight in gold. Websites like Dog-

Friendly.com can help. Here are some questions you can ask the resort or facility to determine if it is right for you: • Does the facility have restrictions based on the size or breed of the dog?

• What amenities, such as grooming, pet sitting and dog walking, are available to canine travelers?

• What are the rules for being on or off-leash at the property?

• Are there areas in the facility that are not dog friendly?

• Will there be an extra charge for traveling with a pet?

When traveling with your pet make sure identification information is current, including your address and cell phone number rather than a home phone number since you will be traveling. Consider having a microchip put on your dog as a permanent form of identification. Remember to travel with a picture of you and your dog together as added proof of ownership.

When making holiday travel plans, factoring in the type of travel you will be doing and the needs of your dog will make the decision process of where your dog should be staying much easier, and make the holidays more enjoyable for the whole family.

Donna Gleason, owner of TLC Dog Trainer, resides in Sherman. She is a certified professional dog trainer and IAABCcertified dog behavior consultant with a master’s degree in behavior modification. She offers professional in-home dog training and group puppy/basic obedience classes. For more information, call 203-241-4449 or visit TLCDogTrainer.com.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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naturalpet

“Dogs are social, emotional beings.

Companionship is far more important than any material object.

Interact with your dog, play with him or take him for a walk.” ~ Dr. Clare Wilson, pet behavior counselor, St. Petersburg, Florida

PLAYFUL PET GIFTS

Animals Love Interactive Toys and Games

by Sandra Murphy

W

hat’s on the family pet’s wish list this year? Family members can have fun creating interactive toys and games that are easy on the holiday budget.

According to a recent American Pet Association survey, three out of four owners buy gifts for their pets during the holiday season to the collective tune of $5 billion. Dogs and cats receive new sweaters and boots, collars and leashes, toys and treats. Yet, what they really crave is attention.

“Too often, pets are left alone for eight hours a day, leading to anxiety, frustration and unwanted behaviors. It’s important that they’re mentally challenged, learn new commands and have fun,” says Dr. Mary Gardner, co-founder of Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice, in Los Angeles. “Cognitive decline and muscle wasting, common in older pets, can both be thwarted with games personalized for age and ability.”

Special Dog Treats

Look for sturdy wooden puzzles that hide a treat behind doors that pull or slide open.

Advanced puzzles involve a multi-step solution. Following 58

Fairfield County Edition

dog treat cookbooks will keep dedicated bakers in a canine’s good graces throughout the year.

Write an activity—a walk, trip to the dog park, game of fetch or a doggie/human dance party—on a few index cards. “Teach the dog to choose by rubbing one card with a sodium-free bouillon cube,” suggests Eileen Proctor, a pet lifestyle expert in Denver. “As soon as the dog sniffs the card, reward with praise and the designated gift. Once the game is learned, there is no need to keep scenting the cards.” Turn up a corner of all the cards for easy pickup.

Purrfect for Cats

Cats may like to play it cool, but bring out a laser pointer and they act like kittens again.

To mimic hunting instincts, play hide-and-seek with kitty’s food; put holes in a closed box with special bits of dry food inside, then let her paw it out or roll the box.

Place a toolarge-to-swallow jingle bell inside an

natural awakenings

empty toilet paper roll and tape the ends shut for a charming-sounding toy.

An orphaned sock filled with crinkly cellophane and sewn shut makes an intriguing toy to drag around. Improvise a fishing pole from a colorful dowel rod and heavy twine with a pet- and planetfriendly item tied on the end for a pet to chase.

Cats love to squeeze themselves into small spaces or relax in larger ones, so pass along gift boxes.

Pretty-Bird Specials

In the wild, birds spend most of their time foraging for food. Mimic a wilderness search by hiding food beneath an unused, unbleached coffee filter or a large lettuce leaf. Cut food in pieces big enough to hold in a claw to help hone balance. Hide seeds in a made-for-birds piñata, available at pet supply stores.

Puzzle boxes range from reach-in-forfood versions to slide-a-door or pull-aknob difficulty levels.

Fun for Fish

Betta (Siamese fighting) fish love to rest near the surface, so provide a leafy hammock, available where supplies are sold. Finned friends get exercise as they chase a laser pointer’s red dot through the water. A new plant or ping-pong ball floating on the surface provides added entertainment.

Moss balls are a good place to hide food and also help keep the water clean.

A ceramic log lets fish hide inside.

Climbing Crabs

Hermit crabs are social animals, both curious and amusing. The gift of a new

shell or two during molting season is appreciated. Flat-topped rocks with textured sides, large enough to not tip over, provide a different view. Fibers like those used for macramé, hung from the lid of the tank almost to the floor mimic rope climbing. Upside-down terra cotta flower pots, in different sizes and covered with netting, provide more surfaces and heights to explore.

“Time spent together is a gift for both the giver and the recipient,” says Proctor.

“It’s more thoughtful than anything you can find in a store. You always get back more than you give.”

Sandra Murphy is a freelance writer in St. Louis, MO. Connect at StLouis FreelanceWriter@mindspring.com.

Pet Precautions As with kids, don’t shower all the surprises on a pet at once. The choices will be overwhelming. Instead, rotate them while keeping one favorite on hand.

4 Check for loose knobs or small parts on toys and around the house; anything that can break off from a strong bite. Favor smooth, rounded edges.

4 Puzzles and other toys are for supervised play only.

4 Never point a laser light at a pet’s eyes—it can severely damage their vision.

4 Poinsettias can be poisonous to pets—keep them out of reach or out of the house.

4 Because a dog or cat’s tongue is rough, if they chew on tinsel, ribbon, yarn or other textured wrappings or decorations, it’s likely to get swallowed, which can lead to a medical emergency.

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

DOG GONE SMART

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

15 Cross St, Norwalk 203-838-7729 DogGoneSmart.com

Fairfield County’s TOP canine center! We have been serving pet lovers in our area for more than 20 years. Our staff consists of dog trainers and animal behavorists who work together to make Dog Gone Smart a loving, safe, fun and happy home away from home for your dog. See ad, page 56.

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

COMMUNITY CATS

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

PASSAGE EAST BOARDING KENNELS 499 Danbury Rd, Wilton 203-762-7998 Passage_East@sbcglobal.net PassageEastKennels.com

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

FRIENDS OF FELINES, INC.

PO Box 8147, Stamford 203-363-0220 Cats@AdoptAPet.org • AdoptAPet.org

NFSAW

Passage East has been dedicated to caring for pets for more than 40 years and makes your dog feel like it never left home.

Passage East is a full-service dog boarding kennel. We offer daycare services, overnight boarding and full-service grooming. See ad, page 53.

PET FOOD & HEALTH SUPPLIES

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

THE HONEST KITCHEN

PET ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY INC. (PAWS)

145 14th St, San Diego, CA 866-437-9729 • TheHonestKitchen.com

504 Main Ave, Norwalk 203-750-9572 • PawsCT.org

PET PROTECTORS

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

RIDGEFIELD OPERATION FOR ANIMAL RESCUE (ROAR)

45 South St, Ridgefield 203-438-0158 • Roar-Ridgefield.org

STRAYS AND OTHERS

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

TAILS OF COURAGE

1 Pembroke Rd, Danbury 877-63-TAILS TailsOfCourage.org

WESTPORT ANIMAL SHELTER ADVOCATES (WASA)

1 Tower Ridge, Westport 203-557-0361 WestportWASA.org

DOGGIE DAY CAMP, DAY CARE, TRAINING & BOARDING

The Honest Kitchen provides natural, human-grade pet food products for dogs and cats. Our gourmet recipes are 100% natural and gently dehydrated. See ad, page 55.

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

The Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic is a low-cost, high-volume facility for cats and dogs, the first such professional clinic in Fairfield County. The clinic offers other low-cost services only during the spay/neuter appointment. Nutmeg honors state spay/neuter vouchers at face value from adopted shelter pets and qualified low-income families and offers further low-cost incentives to nonprofit rescue groups. Pit bulls and mixes are welcome at an an even more reduced rate, and the clinic offers spay/neuter and vaccine discounts for feral cats. See ad, page 57.

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says Lee. Visualize the breath filling the body like a bell, with the flared bottom expanding completely around the waistline. Pause momentarily and exhale through the nose or mouth for three seconds, gently contracting the abdomen to help expel the air. Practice this whenever needed to ease stress or for five minutes daily to establish a slower, deeper breathing pattern.

fitbody

Ocean Breath

Breath-Taking Wisdom Six Ways to Inhale Energy and Exhale Stress

by Lane Vail

W

e draw an astounding 22,000 breaths daily, but because breathing is involuntary, we often take it for granted.

Transforming breathing into a conscious activity can provide amazing energy, awareness and control, and dramatically improve our mental, physical and creative performances, according to Al Lee, co-author of Perfect Breathing: Transform Your Life One Breath at a Time. That’s 22,000 opportunities to choose health and wisdom every single day.

Everyday Ease

Lee paints a picture of perfect breathing: “Watch a baby breathe; it looks like there’s a balloon in the stomach that inflates and falls back down. This is belly breathing—pleasant, enjoyable and natural.” During inhalation, the diaphragm pulls down under the lungs, allowing them to expand with air and displace space in the abdomen.

However, “Breathing can fall victim to the same movement dysfunction as any other skill, like running or walking,” says Nick Winkelman, director of movement and education at EXOS, an 60

Fairfield County Edition

elite athletic training facility in Phoenix, Arizona. He points to “shoulder breathing”, characterized by a lifting of the shoulders with each shallow sip of air, as a common dysfunction perpetuated by too much sitting.

“Hunching over the laptop or sitting in the car binds up the abdominal region and reduces the possibility of expansion there, so the breath moves higher into the chest cavity,” Lee explains.

Replacing shoulder breathing with belly breathing “creates a cascade of positive effects,” says Lee, including lowering blood pressure and boosting the immune system. Deep breathing also clarifies the mind and is used in nearly every spiritual tradition to achieve deeper states of prayer, meditation and contemplation, he notes.

Try these six healing techniques.

Six-Second Breath

Lee’s six-second breath is a simple prescription for stress that can be used anytime, anywhere. Relax the abdominal muscles and inhale for three seconds, breathing through the nose to “disinfect, filter, condition and moisturize the air before it reaches the lungs,”

natural awakenings

The yoga breath ujjayi, or oceansounding breath, is achieved by slightly constricting the throat muscles and gently lifting the glottis, so that a soothing hiss is produced when the breath is drawn in through the nose.

Dr. Richard Brown, an integrative psychiatrist, associate professor at New York’s Columbia University and co-author of The Healing Power of the Breath, explains the benefits. “Ujjayi creates resistance to air flow, triggering receptors deep within the lungs’ alveoli, which allows more oxygen to be delivered to the cells. It also stimulates the vagus nerve input to the brain, which promotes calmness and clear thinking.”

Target Breathing

A recent study from the journal Pain Medicine found that deep, slow breathing, combined with relaxation, effectively diminishes pain. “The nervous system represents a physical or emotional trauma in an unregulated pattern of signals,” says Brown. “But the mind and breath can wash away and rewire that pattern.”

Practice target breathing, a technique derived from qigong, by inhaling deeply into the belly and visualizing the breath as a ball of energy which upon exhaling can flow to the place in the body needing healing, advises Lee.

Bellows Breath

Brown has co-authored a review in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine describing the neurophysiological basis and clinical benefits of yogic breathing on depression and post-traumatic stress. Bhastrika, or bellows breath, is a mood-lifting technique wherein one inhales vigorously through the nose while raising the arms above the head, fingers extended, and then

forcibly exhales through the nose while pulling the elbows down alongside the ribs with fingers closing gently. Avoid overdoing it, instructs Brown; three rounds of 15 to 20 breaths are sufficient for healthy individuals.

4-2-10 Breathing

Anxiety attacks often generate feelings of breathlessness, and fixating on each inadequate inhalation reinforces panic. Winkelman recommends 4-2-10 breathing, a technique that emphasizes elongating exhalations. Inhale through the nose for four seconds, hold for two, and then slowly release the breath for up to 10 seconds. Lee explains that after several breaths, the brain will start to shift from reactive emotional thinking to rational problem solving.

“Concentrating on the breath makes it hard to think about the future or rummage around in the past,” says Lee. “It keeps you in the moment, intimately in touch with the mind, body and emotions.”

Lane Vail is a freelance writer in South Carolina. Connect at WriterLane.com.

An Athlete’s Advantage

by Lane Vail “Many disciplines, from Eastern arts to performing arts and athletics, rely on breathing as the foundation for eliciting the most from the mind and body,” says fitness writer Al Lee. Effective breathing optimizes the delivery of air into the lungs and extraction of oxygen into the bloodstream, both critical for improving athletic efforts.

Deep breathing also enhances and balances the autonomic nervous system, inducing a “relaxed state of readiness,” adds Arizona fitness consultant Al Winkelman.

When an athlete breathes into the belly, the shoulders remain relaxed, the spine neutral and the ribs positioned over the hips. “This is a great biomechanical position to move and take an impact,” says Winkelman, adding that a shallow breather, with lifted shoulders and arched back, not only

recovers oxygenation slower, but also increases vulnerability to injury.

For rhythmic sports like running, cycling and swimming, Winkelman recommends relaxing into the synchronization of breath and movement.

“Tension restricts muscles’ ability to shorten or lengthen, but relaxation allows them to naturally release stored energy. Correct breathing is one of the most important mechanisms by which athletes can unlock tension and relax.”

For sports that require striking a ball or exerting a kick or punch, like tennis, soccer, martial arts and golf, the athlete inhales during the wind-up and momentarily holds the breath as the wind-up peaks. “The exhalation happens during the transition and upon impact, the breath is held again, muscles are tensed up and force is delivered,” says Winkelman. “Breathe in, hold, release, hold.”

GREEN APPLE AND BUTTERNUT SQUASH CASSEROLE (Serves 6)

A delicious and unexpected combination of flavors, this easy to prepare casserole is one of our seasonal favorites. The toasted pecan and bread crumb topping adds a bit of crunch to the velvety soft texture of baked apples and butternut squash.

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

Olive oil spray 3 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 2 cups mushrooms, quartered 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks 1 stalk celery, chopped 1 small yellow onion, chopped Salt and pepper to taste 1/2 cup bread crumbs 2 granny smith apples, peeled, cored, and roughly chopped 1 teaspoon chopped thyme (optional) 1/2 cup toasted chopped pecans (optional) • Preheat oven to 400°F. Spray a medium baking dish with olive oil cooking spray and set aside. Melt 1 tablespoon of the butter and oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add mushrooms, celery, squash, onions and salt and cook, stirring often, for 10 minutes. Reduce heat, cover and cook for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until squash is just tender.

• Meanwhile, melt remaining two tablespoons butter in a small pot. Add breadcrumbs, stir to coat and set aside. Add apples, thyme, salt and pepper to squash mixture and cook until apples are tender, 5 to 10 minutes more. Transfer squash mixture and any pan juices to reserved dish and sprinkle bread crumbs over the top. Bake until bread crumbs are golden brown, 10 to 15 minutes. For extra crunch, garnish with toasted pecans before serving. eNaturalAwakenings.com

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calendarofevents

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Magazine calendar events must be received by November 12th (for December 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.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2

Hands On Health the Maya Way – 9am-6:30pm.

Discover how to support your own digestive and reproductive health through simple yet effective selfcare techniques. Gentle, non-invasive massage and other supportive techniques can help alleviate many of the symptoms of organ displacement. The 7 CEUs are available to LMTs and LAcs. $125. Outer Peace Wellness and Therapeutic Massage, 12 North Main St, Ste 108, West Hartford. 860-924-4870. Erica@ OuterPeaceWellness.com. OuterPeaceWellness.com.

The Art of Healing and the Psychology of Illness Workshop with Dr. Bernie Siegel – 11am-5pm. 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. 203-874-4242.Admissions@ Learn.edu. Learn.Edu/Events.

Reiki Level 1 workshop – 9:30am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki master (19 years).

Includes latest info. Learn Reiki for self-healing and healing others. 4 powerful energy connections, from short (Japanese /Usa) linage, 2 manuals and certificate. $115 + $10/materials. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave (enter office downstairs in back), Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

Spiritual Psychic Fair – Noon-5pm. Join us to experience a session with one of our gifted and caring intuitive readers. Many types of readings available including mediumship, tarot, angel cards, pendulum. Readings are approx. 25 mins. Reiki healing sessions ($20) for both people and animals.

Appointments available, walk-ins welcome. $40+.

Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. AlbertsonChurch@gmail.com.

AlbertsonChurch.org.

The Sound of Your Dreams Workshop – 1:303:30pm. With Denise DeSimone. Denise assists each participant in identifying their dreams and then anchoring these dreams at a cellular level to help manifest what you want to create. All are welcome. $25. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. AlbertsonChurch@ gmail.com. AlbertsonChurch.org.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 3 Intro to Growth Through Divorce – 7:30-8:30pm.

With Beth Leas, intuitive life coach. Come learn more about how the divorce process can actually be a time for great personal growth. Are you looking for more ground, a stronger voice and better connection to your true self as you navigate the dissolution of your marriage? Free. Total Life Care Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4 Intro to TLC MasterMind FUNtensive – 10:30am-noon. Group to guide you in the business aspect of doing what you love. It’s a skill set - and one you can learn. If you’re ready to give up the struggle and receive support, please join us. Free.

TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566.

Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.

Aromatherapy Essentials: It’s Scentsational – 7-9pm. Learn how therapeutic grade essential oils have the ability to support your needs on a daily basis - body, mind and spirit -and practical ways to use them for personal body care, around the house

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

Robin Ordan, LCSW 203-561-8535

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

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natural awakenings

…Awaken to Your Best Self…

Sunday November 23 10am to 5pm

Double Tree by Hilton Hotel 455 South Broadway (Rte. 9), Tarrytown NY 10591 Speakers, Healers, Vendors and Readers Over 100 exhibitors, 1000 guests!

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1

One Day Retreat – 9:30am-4pm. This silent session is designed to be more intensive than our weekly classes. It allows the mind more time to drop daily thoughts and develop deeper levels of awareness of our body, mind, thoughts and feelings. Please bring a bag lunch. Must register. 203-244-3130. Info@ ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org.

Awaken Wellness Fair

AwakenFair.com click on “Tarrytown” Exhibitor spots available as alternatives for toxic cleaning products, home remedies and first aid helpers. $40. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas. com. BethLeas.com.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5 Restorative Aerial Yoga – 6:30-8pm. With Evelyne Serais. Use a soft fabric hammock to move through a series of restorative poses that will rejuvenate and deeply relax your nervous system. Rest provides the body an opportunity to renew and heal. All levels welcome, no experience is necessary. Space is limited. $35/by 10/29. $45 thereafter. Yoga for Everybody, 63 Unquowa Rd, Fairfield. 203-254-9642.

Info@Yoga4Everybody.net. Yoga4Everybody.net.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6 TLC Healing Circle – 7-9pm. Fun, experiential evening for the curious, first timers and practitioners of all modalities and levels. Healing circle meditation led by Beth Leas and then everyone will have the opportunity to give/receive mini-sessions. Open to all. $20 donation. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com.

BethLeas.com.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8 Healing Vibrations: A Journey Inward – 7-8:30pm. Workshop offers an experiential journey inward to lift your spirit and ease your soul bringing the peace, healing, and joy you’ve been waiting for. Experience a combination of Reiki and sound

SYNERGY SALON in balance with nature

Relaxing scalp & hand massage with certified organic essential oils, flower essence, and herbal tea rinses. Finish with a beautiful blow dry. t See our website for a full service menu.

www.synergysalonNC.com 53 East Ave. New Canaan, CT

203-966-5655

Detox your scalp • Restore your hair • Energize your spirit

Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas. com. BethLeas.com.

markyourcalendar 8th Annual Healers Gala & Wellness Weekend

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11 Good Night Meditation – 7-8:30pm. With Beth Leas. Insomnia keeping you awake? Relax into a better night’s sleep as you learn how to wind down, calm the mind and prepare for sleep. Learn tried and true techniques for the truly tired, including a guided meditation. Free. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas. com. ProMindful.org.

November 21-23 • 10am to 5pm Dolce Hotel - Norwalk

• Friday • 6-1pm • HEALERS GALA Hosted by Dr. Derek Senior, ND & Dr. Dorette Lewis-Senior, ND Entertainment by Airborne Jazz Band • Saturday • 9am-8pm • Movie at 6 pm Nature Tour, Seminars & Spa Services • Sunday • 9am-12pm • HEALING CIRCLE Registration Required: 203-374-5309 drs2health.com/events • doctors@doctorstohealth.com Vendors welcome Friday and Saturday

healing to enhance emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual well-being and balance. $30. ARC Sacred Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe. HealingVibrationsJourney@gmail.com. ArcSacredCenter.org.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 9 From Heaven and Back: A Conversation with author CJ Golden – 11am. When author and inspirational speaker CJ Golden met Tracy LaCroix through a series of serendipitous events, she encountered a man who returned from a near-death experience spiritually enlightened. Discussion, Q&A and workshop. Book included in cost. $20. SOUND Center for Creative Arts and Mindfulness, 31 Hawleyville Rd, Newtown. 203-270-1119. SoundCenterArts@gmail.com. SoundCenterArts.com.

The Energy of Suicide – 1-2:30pm. Talk and Q&A followed by a healing guided meditation.

Suicide is a global epidemic that happens for a number of reasons such as mental illness, organic brain disease, intolerance, substance abuse, trauma to name a few. Let’s take a look at suicide from a metaphysical perspective. $20. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. AlbertsonChurch@gmail.com. AlbertsonChurch.org.

The Art of Tarot – 2-5pm. With Beth Leas. Every picture tells a story. Receive a personalized revealing and introspective tarot reading, then you’ll be taken on a fabulous collage-inspired art adventure.

Leave with a tarot art card inspired and created by you and all about you. $75. TLC Center, 152 East

Introduction to Aromatherapy Workshop – 7:309pm. Aromatherapy has been used for thousands of years to cleanse and heal. Come and learn about the uses and healing properties of some of these oils and create your own personal body oil blend to take home with you. $25 (plus $10 for supplies).

Trumbull High School, 72 Strobel Rd, Trumbull.

Deb@MyOmWellness.com. myOMwellness.com.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13 New Haven Chapter of the Holistic Chamber of Commerce Monthly Meeting – 6:30-8:30pm.

Free. RSVP. 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. NewHaven@HolisticChamberOfCommerce.com. Learn.Edu/Events.

Ukulele Club – 6:30-8:30pm. Come strum and have fun with other lover’s of the Ukulele. Uncle Zak “the Uke Guy” will be facilitating. Come prepared to have fun jamming, singing and making music as we share knowledge and learn. Uke not necessary, just let us know when you RSVP. By donation. Sticks & Stones Farm, 201 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown.

203-219-2230. SticksAndStonesFarm.com.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14 TLC Tarot Fun & Fabulous Friday – 7-9pm.

What’s in the cards for you? Find out during this playful event designed for everyone from novices to longtime tarot friends. Explore the tarot or develop a deeper relationship with our cards. Everyone will receive a reading from Beth Leas. $40. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@ BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15 Essential Oils for Beginners – 1-3:30pm. With Natasha Sheer. Smell and discuss the properties, history and uses of some of the more common and versatile essential oils as well as some common

carrier oils that could be used with essential oils. $40. $35/before 11/9. Outer Peace Wellness and Therapeutic Massage, 12 North Main St, Ste 108, West Hartford. 860-924-4870. Sheer.Natasha@ gmail.com. OuterPeaceWellness.com.

Yoga Nidra with John Vosler – 3-6pm. With the power of intention you can become the guiding force in your life consciously. Learn to develop a powerful intention that will help you manage your thoughts and habits...your life. $35/by 11/8. $45 thereafter. Yoga for Everybody, 27 Unquowa Rd, Fairfield. 203-254-9642. Info@Yoga4Everybody. net. Yoga4Everybody.net.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16 The Self and the Soul: Living in the Domain of Miracles – 12:30-2:30pm. Life - with all its busyness, difficulty and demands can feel overwhelming and chaotic. Come and experience some incredible breakthroughs in your life! Suggested $20 love offering. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, (above Ford dealership), Norwalk. 203-855-7922.

Office@UnityCenterPS.org. UnityCenterPS.org.

Communicating With Animals in Spirit– 1-3pm.

With Priscilla Keresy. Learn what happens to our beloved pets when they pass away, how and when they might come back into your lives, and how to communicate with animal friends who have crossed the Rainbow Bridge. $40. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. AlbertsonChurch@gmail.com.

AlbertsonChurch.org.

The Thanksgiving Angel: An Angel Circle and Reading – 2pm. Join Carol Joyce as she speaks about the perfection and uniqueness of the angels and how they are present with us every day. Includes personal reading. Space is limited. Light snacks served. $35. SOUND Center for Creative Arts and Mindfulness, 31 Hawleyville Rd, Newtown.

203-270-1119. Office@SoundCenterArts.com.

SoundCenterArts.com.

Restorative Yoga with Healing Gong – 4-6pm. As you relax and listen to the gong, a guided relaxation will help you melt, release and rejuvenate away pain, tension and stress. Please join us for a profoundly relaxing and deeply healing experience. This class is appropriate for beginners as well as advanced yoga practitioners. Free. Suggested donation $20.

Harmony Yoga, 175 Atlantic St (entrance on Bank St), Stamford. 203-856-5299. Alex@Alexnason. com. HarmonYogaStudio.com.

What if, instead of just resigning yourself • Integrated Swedish • Sports • Deep Tissue 122 River Road Ext. Cos Cob, CT 06807 203.869.1764 Pangaeamassage.com

Selected as Best of 2014 by Serendipity Magazine

to suffering, grasping for bandaids, or trying to escape your suffering . . .

You discovered you could heal your inner wounds fully and to the root?

To learn more, please visit www.judithbarr.com

Judith Barr, LPC, LMhC ... hEaLiNG tO thE rOOt 30 Years Experience • Depth Psychotherapist • Spiritual Midwife Professional Training/Supervision • Speaker PO Box 603, Brookfield, CT 06804 • 203-775-5006 • JudithBarr@PowerAbusedPowerHealed.com

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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Women’s Empowerment Workshops

Create the life you want!

Second Saturday of each month 10:30am - 12:30pm Each month you will learn tools and mind/body techniques to help you discover and achieve your vision/goals for different areas of your life.

November 8: Create the Work You Love, December 13: Connecting To Your Spirituality/ Your Life Purpose January 10: Get Empowered!

Setting Your Intentions for 2015.

Visit Limitless-potential.net for more details.

Night of Sacred Dance Bellydance– 7:30pm. With Kristie Liotta. Gentle guidance in bellydancing, enchanting music, the art of henna, storytelling and a blazing fire. Weather permitting, we will enjoy the fire and dance outside. Dress beautifully and come with an open heart. No experience required. $30.

SOUND Center for Creative Arts and Mindfulness, 31 Hawleyville Rd, Newtown. 203-270-1119. SoundCenterArts@gmail.com. SoundCenterArts.com.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 17

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18

Women’s Health, TCM and Acupuncture – 7-8:30pm. Jody Eisemann, licensed acupuncturist, will share her experience of more than two decades of treating issues such as PMS, fertility, menopause and much more. Learn self-care TCM techniques you can use with yourself and your family. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-216-2548. Je@Affordable AcupunctureCT.com. AcupunctureHealingCT.com.

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For more information visit our website NaturalAwakeningsMag.com/mymagazine or call 239-530-1377 Fairfield County Edition

Healing Service at Albertson Church – 7:308:30pm. Come and join us in a beautiful guided meditation followed by the opportunity to receive ‘hands-on shoulders’ healing from one of our church designated healers. All are welcome. Free. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. AlbertsonChurch@gmail.com. AlbertsonChurch.org.

Free Information Session – 5pm. Learn more about exciting learning opportunities at The Graduate Institute, Master’s degrees and Certificate programs.

203-874-4242. 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. Admissions@Learn.edu. Learn.Edu/Events.

inTo a business ...

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Introduction to Reiki – 7-8:30pm. This is a great place to start if you’re Reiki curious or interested in learning more about how to heal yourself and others. Beth Leas will share wisdom from her 20+ years experience using Reiki in this fun, explorative and interesting evening. Free. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas. com. BethLeas.com.

Intentional Living Interest Group – 7-9pm. An opportunity to come together, engage in meaningful conversation, and explore topics that heighten our sense of awareness and satisfaction in life.

Free. 203-874-4242. 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. Admissions@Learn.edu. Learn.Edu/Events.

Turn Your Passion

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Parenting Your Anxious Child – 7-8:30pm. With Jennifer Smith, LMFT, child and family therapist.

Presentation will focus on ways to help decrease your child’s anxiety. Learn strategies for lessening worries and conquering fears. Discuss ways of simplifying at home to help raise a confident, self-assured child. Free. The Offices of Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ste #6, Ridgefield. 203-438-4848. DrRoseannInfo@att.net.

DrRoseann.com.

natural awakenings

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20 Sanskrit and Chanting Class – 6:30-8pm. With Leslie. Through her yoga studies, Leslie is on the faculty of the American Sanskrit Institute. Leslie offers a combination of Sanskrit with chanting in her classes. Known for her love of Sanskrit and for her sense of humor, Leslie teaches Sanskrit and

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chanting nationwide. $20. 203-938-9445. Sticks & Stones Farm, 201 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown.

LeslieFrey@aol.com. SticksAndStonesFarm.com.

Joseph Campbell Mythological Roundtable – 6:30-8:30pm, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany, CT. Donations recommended. RSVP: 203-874-4242. Marta@ MartaKoonz.com. Learn.Edu/Events.

Reiki Questions & Answer Session – 7-9:30pm.

With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher (19 year).

Includes latest information in Western-style Reiki.

7-8:30pm: Talk about Reiki. Reiki-certified practitioners may ask about advanced training. $5. 8:159:30pm: Mini-Reiki sessions. $10. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave (in the back, downstairs), Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@ snt.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

The Secrets of Your Destiny – 7-9pm. Who are you? Discover the divine design of your life. See how your life unfolds numerologically and the new paths that await you. Learn to identify your personalized tarot cards and how to apply their wisdom to life lessons and challenges. $50. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas. com. BethLeas.com.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21 Fall Weekend Retreat – 1121-11/23. Excellent opportunity to deepen your meditation practice by allowing you to cultivate self-awareness for an extended period of time without distraction. While the retreat will be conducted mainly in silence, there will also be Dharma talks and question and answer periods and a private interview with Achan Da and Achan Niphen. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org.

Holistic Happy Hour – 6-8pm. Get your happy on!

Join us to celebrate Thanksgiving at our Holistic Happy Hour – a healthy and relaxing after-work event for friends, fans, clients, and colleagues. It’s a social event with complimentary food and drinks.

Meet new people, network, stretch your mind, and discover something new. Bring a friend!. Free. iFloat Spa, 163 Main St, 2nd Fl, Westport. 203-226-7378.

David@iFloatSpa.net. iFloatSpa.net.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22 Mandalas: Sacred Circles of Illuminated Inner Vision – 2-4:30pm. With Lisa Sherwood. You will be guided to dive deep into an inspired state of creativity from which to create, with intention, your own personal illuminated mandala using black paper and colored pencils. Meditative exploration

using shape, form and color. Materials included. $45 by 11/15. $55 thereafter. Yoga for Everybody, 27 Unquowa Rd, Fairfield. 203-254-9642. Info@ Yoga4Everybody.net. Yoga4Everybody.net.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23 Reconstruct Your Down Dog – 3-5pm. with Michelle Dalbec. As common as this pose may be and as straightforward as it may look, downward facing dog is extremely complex. Learn about body mechanics and basic alignment principles, practice movements and postures. $35/by 11/16. $45 thereafter. Yoga for Everybody, 27 Unquowa Rd, Fairfield. 203-254-9642. Info@Yoga4Everybody. net. Yoga4Everybody.net.

Fall For That Special Someone

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29 Reiki Second Degree workshop – 9:30am-5:30pm.

With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher (19 years).

Learn Reiki 2rd Degree in the Western style. Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. 2 powerful energy connections from my short Japanese/Usa Linage. 2 manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, (enter office downstairs in back), Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@ snet.net.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 30 CHANTSFORMATION-A Chant and Meditation Experience – 9-9:45am. With Andrea Rudolph, Jewish interfaith minister. Gather to contemplate and nurture the spirit within through the practice of chant and meditation. No prior Hebrew knowledge required. All faiths. Suggested donation: $10.

ARC Sacred Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe.

203-257-1009. InTheSpiritofLife@gmail.com.

InTheSpiritofLifecom.

CRYSTAL SPEAK with Rev. Deborah Ross – 1:30-3:30pm. Learn to understand and develop your own intuitive powers in talking to and working with crystals: for healing, meditation, calming, pain, knowledge and much more. Crystals will be available for working with and purchase. $40. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. AlbertsonChurch@gmail.com.

AlbertsonChurch.org.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 2 Natural Ways to CHANGE Brain Functioning – 7-8:30pm. With Deb Bossio. Discuss supplements and herbs, and how to use functional medicine to determine the best treatment protocols for adults and children. Dr. Roseann will discuss how neurofeedback and supplements work synergistically to improve treatment outcomes. Free. The Offices of Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ste #6, Ridgefield. 203-438-4848. DrRoseannInfo@ att.net. DrRoseann.com.

Restorative Yoga – 7-9pm. Restorative yoga uses props to fully support the body allowing for a very deep relaxation. Series of floor poses that will open the body, release tension and stored-up toxins, and melt away stress. Bring: 1 bed pillow, 2 bath towels, 1 comfy blanket. Optional: An eye pillow if you have one, 1-2 yoga blocks. $35. Trumbull High School, 72 Strobel Rd, Trumbull. Deb@MyOmWellness. com. myOMwellness.com.

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monday

Angelic Reiki Meditation with Essential Oils – 8-9am. Receive short, hands-on Angelic Reiki, experience powerful techniques to reduce stress and relax. $10. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave (in the back, downstairs), Norwalk. Pre-register: 203-852-1150.

Writing to Find Your Self: The Art of Inquiry – 9:30-11am. Discover hidden facets of yourself! Beth creates a cozy environment and serves up thoughtful questions designed to stimulate new ways of looking at yourself and your life. This is a provocative and playful process-oriented series of 4 classes. $160/ series. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.

CHANTSFORMATIONS-A Chant & Meditation Experience – 9-9:45am. With Andrea Rudolph, Jewish Interfaith Minister. Gather to contemplate and nurture the spirit within through the practice of chant and meditation. No prior Hebrew knowledge required. All Faiths. Suggested donation: $10.

ARC Sacred Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe.

203-257-1009. InTheSpiritofLife@gmail.com.

InTheSpiritofLifecom.

Spiritual Sunday Services – 10-11am. A one-hour service followed by community hour from 11am12pm. The Arc Sacred Center is a non-profit spiritual community center created for the purpose of offering a gathering place for spiritual exploration and teaching, freedom of spiritual expression and healing for the body, mind and soul. Free. ARC Sacred Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe. 203-268-1272.

Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am.

Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faiths develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way.

Visit ReddingMeditation.org or call 203-244-3130.

Reiki Volunteers – 10am-12pm. Pledge time to volunteer Sundays at various homes for the elderly and nursing homes in Fairfield and Southbury. Receive credits towards Reiki training. Reiki Overtones, 95 Harris St, Fairfield. Reservations, Jim or Jeannette: 203-254-3958.

Celebration Service – 10:30am-12pm. With Rev. Shawn Moninger Inspiring message supports your spiritual unfoldment with thought provoking, soul healing topics and uplifting music. Love Offeirng.

Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, (above Ford dealership), Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@ UnityCenterPS.org. UnityCenterPS.org.

Albertson Church Service – 11am-12:30pm. Includes an inspirational talk from caring ministers, guided meditation, time to receive healing energy and spirit messages from those we continue to love.

Free. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-637-4615.

Family Program (kids and teens) – 1st and 3rd Sunday. Wonderful Family program introducing kids to meditation, metta (loving-kindness affirmations), yoga, art practice, a discussion of mindfulness in everyday life, generosity, compassion, letting go of negative mind states and other basic Buddhist ideas that are common to all spiritual paths. Parents can meditate in the main building.

Contact Matt Keeler at MmKeeler@gmail.com or ReddingMeditation.org.

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Fairfield County Edition

Intuitive Readings By Caroline – 1-4pm. Come play in the psychic realm! Past Lives & Spirit Messages. Find out how your past lives reflect in your current life. Mondays. In Stamford. $35/30 minute reading. Call for location/RSVP: 914-318-4845.

Gentle Flow Yoga Candle Lit – 6:15-7:15pm.

With Aga. Beginner’s welcome. Bring water bottle and Yoga Mat if you have one. First class free for new students! $15/drop-in. $10/class pass. $100/10 classes. More information: 203-559-9656. Sticks and Stones Farm Retreat, 201 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown. 203-270-8220. SticksAndStonesFarm.com.

Iyengar Yoga – 6:30-8pm. Perfect for those new to yoga, those working with limitations and anyone interested in delving deeper into their practice. Classes will share B.K.S Iyengar’s approach that yoga can be beneficial for anyone, no matter their age, level of fitness, religion or flexibility. Bring a sweater for relaxation. $120/8-weeks. Sticks & Stones Farm.

201 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown. LeslieFrey@aol. com. SticksAndStonesFarm.com.

Yoga – 7-8:15pm. With Charles Sikorski, RYT. Weekly. Charles encourages one to find one’s true self: physically, mentally and spiritually. $13/per session or 5/$60, 10/$110, 20/$200. ARC Sacred Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe. 203-414-6790.

Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm.

Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faiths develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way.

Visit ReddingMeditation.org or call 203-244-3130.

The Thought Exchange – 7-9pm. Simple yet profound way of looking at the world, that allows us to understand and experience the truth about who we really are, where we really live, what we really want, and how to have that all the time. At least 10 people needed for the class. $80/4-week class. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-8557922. DFried6367@aol.com. UnityCenterPS.org.

Women’s Holistic Self-Defense – 7-9pm. Starts 11/10. Weekly program combines martial arts and self-awareness techniques, to build confidence, remain calm and empower yourself in any life situation. FREE intro session on 11/3. Meets in Norwalk.

Limitless-potential.net.

natural awakenings

Transformation and Healing – 7:30-8:15pm. Rev. Ed O’Malley uses a Shamanic Illumination Process which removes heavy energies from luminous energy fields, returning the body and soul to its initial state of wellness. ARC Sacred Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe. 203-268-1272.

Guided Meditation at Sabita Holistic Center –7:30-8:30pm. Give yourself the gift of meditation at Sabita Holistic Center. Internationally known Dr. Levy has worked for over the past 35 years in stress reduction, deep relaxation and meditation. Free. Sabita Holistic Center, 3519 Post Rd, Southport. 203-254-2633.

Monday Meditation for Everyone – 7:30-9pm. This is Meditation Guided imagery for relaxation and stress reduction. It also helps you move forward on your Spiritual path. No experience necessary. $20. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plain St, Bethel. 203-570-3868.

Reiki Share – 7:30-9:30pm. Last Monday. With JoAnn Duncan. Practice Reiki in a small group setting. Share experiences and help each other develop in a safe, fun environment while providing a wonderful, relaxing, rejuvenating experience. $20. Registration required. The Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding.

203-438-3050 or TurningPointReiki.com.

tuesday The Graduate Institute: Fall Accelerated Admissions – Every Tuesday is accelerated admissions day. Receive your admission decision on the spot.

Schedule an appointment with an admissions counselor today! 203-874-4252. Admissions@learn.edu.

Learn.edu.

TLC Monthly Networking Breakfast – 8:30am.

First Tuesday of the month. Looking for a community of healthy living professionals? At TLC Center we understand the power of networking. Relaxed, supportive group of professionals. Grab a friend, your biz cards and join us for a fun morning of connecting.

Free. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-8569566. Beth@BethLeas.com. TLCcenter.com.

Pilates – 9:15-10am. Wth Laura Lehrhaupt, Certified Holistic Health Counselor. Laura is also a certified Spinning, Kickboxing, Balletone and Pilates Instructor. $13/class. $15/drop-in. ARC Sacred Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe. BeWellLaural@ gmail.com. BeWellLaural.com.

Tots Yoga for Crawler-17months – 10:15-11am.

Partner with your little one for animated yoga poses, games, music and breathing exercises to strengthen coordination and build body awareness. Please preregister for your free trial class. First Presbyterian Church, 1101 Bedford St, Stamford. 203-253-0764.

KimberlyMotill@gmail.com. FamilyTreeYoga.net.

Mommy & Me Yoga for Babies 6 weeks old pre-crawling – 11:15am-12pm. Moms will restore and rejuvenate through stretching and strengthening poses. Babies will enjoy yoga poses to aid in digestion and sleep. Great opportunity to bond with your baby and connect with other moms. Please preregister for free trial at FamilyTreeYoga.net. First Presbyterian Church, 1101 Bedford St, Stamford.

203-253-0764. KimberlyMotill@gmail.com.

Lunchtime Yoga in Downtown Stamford – 12-1pm. Take a wellness break during your day.

Release stress, re-energize, find balance with vinyasa flow yoga. $20/drop-in, 4/$68 or 8/$120. Call 914-393-9221. Limitless-Potential.net.

Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 12:30-2pm.

Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faiths develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way.

Visit ReddingMeditation.org or call 203-244-3130.

BodySmart – 6:15-7:30pm. Semi-private sessions for 2-4 participants. Complete core/body conditioning exercises and stretching utilizing a 9-foot floor to ceiling X-Pole. $45/class-discount with 6+ classes (pre-reg required). BodySmart, 115 Main St, Unit 11, Monroe. Call Lisa for details, additional schedule information and to register: 203-209-7359.

Women’s Group: Journey to Discovering Your True Self – 7-8pm. Workshops designed for women to explore their creativity while cultivating their own sense of self awareness and developing their inner spirit. Work from the book The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron. Must pre-register. Includes a copy of the book and refreshments. $250/12 sessioins. Wellspring Counseling Services, Middlebury, 850 Straits Tnpke, 2nd Flr, Middlebury. 203-758-2296. WellSpring.org.

Angelic Healing Group—7-9pm, 1st Tuesday. Experience the healing energy of the Angelic Realm. Your energy body will be infused with the love and light of the Divine through meditation and hands-on touch. $20.

Stevens Memorial Church, 8 Shady Ln, South Salem, NY. 203-438-4893.

Reiki Shares – 7:30-10:15pm. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays. Gigi Benanti Usui/Karuna Reiki Master/ Teacher. For Reiki practitioners only. Exchange ongoing since 1996. Instructions included. $20.

Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk.

Pre-register: 203-852-1150.

wednesday Candlelit Yoga Flow – 6:30-7:30pm. With Aga. Beginners welcome. Bring water bottle and Yoga Mat if you have one. First class free for new students! $15/drop-in. $10/class pass. $100/10 classes. More information: 203-559-9656. Sticks and Stones Farm Retreat, 201 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown. 203-2708220. SticksAndStonesFarm.com.

Journaling with Spirit – 7-8pm. By Rev. Shawn Moninger. Journaling is one of the fastest and easiest ways to get in touch with the highest voice within ourselves. First-time attendees receive a new journal. Love offering. Unity Center for Practical Spirituality, Norwalk. 203-855-7922.

Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm.

Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faiths develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way.

Visit ReddingMeditation.org or call 203-244-3130.

Psychic Development Class – 7-8:30pm. Every other Wednesday, begins March 12 for March series of 6 classes. Please bring journal and pen. Reserve a spot at Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plain St, Bethel.

203-570-3868. Soul-Focus.me.

Journey Within: Do You Feel Stuck? – 7-9pm. 1st Wednesday. Need support trying to begin something new? Support, intuitive insight, wisdom. Facilitator: Cindy Miller, intuitive. $20. Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West St, Newtown. Call: 203-4269448. SacredGrounds.bz. TrinityProduction.org.

Holistic Moms Network Fairfield County, CT Chapter – 7:30pm. 2nd Wednesday. Associates in Family Chiropractic & Natural Health Care, 156 East Ave, Norwalk. Home.Homewebs.com/ HmnFairfieldCtyCT. Turning Point S.H.A.R.E. Divorce Group – 7:30-9:30pm. 3rd Wednesdays. Offering support, healing, advocacy, resources and education for women in the process of, or recently divorced.

Themes and speakers cover the legal, financial and emotional issues encountered during or in the aftermath of divorce. Redding Center for Meditation, $20, $150/10-session card. Registration required.

9 Picketts Ridge Rd, Redding. 203-438-3050 or TurningPointShare.com.

thursday Thursday Morning Meditation for Moms – 9:3011am. Come and unwind with a Guided Meditative Journey geared to release stress and a healthful more positive understanding of self. $20. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plain St, Bethel. 203-570-3868.

Wellness Seminars – 5:30pm. Ask question about your health and hear how naturopathic medicine can help. Brief video is shown highlighting tests not generally done in conventional medicine and their usefullness in detecting conditions in the body that would not otherwise be noticed with regular lab work. Sessions may include chair massage, fitness testing, BMI and light refreshment. Pre-registration necessary. Free. 239 Plattsville Rd, Trumbull. 203374-5309. LewisSenior@DoctorsToHealth.com.

Drs2Health.com.

Yoga Tea Potluck – 6:30-8pm. Do your own practice, no instruction. 8-10pm. Potluck in barn.

Practice together with other yogis. Also open for meditation if this is your main practice. Please prepare food to share. Bring plate, cup and utensils.

Tea provided. Information: DesreTarr@gmail.com.

Sticks and Stones Farm Retreat. 201 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown. 203-270-8220. SticksAndStonesFarm.com.

ADHD Parent Support Group – 7-8:30pm. Join both parents and caregivers to learn more about how to support children and teens with attentional and executive functioning issues. Emphasis will not only be on connecting with others, but about gaining valuable strategies and techniques. Free. The Offices of Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ste #6, Ridgefield. 203-438-4848. DrRoseannInfo@att.net. DrRoseann.com.

EFT Tapping Circle Meetup – 7-8:30pm. Come join us to learn and practice a powerful self-help tool using tapping on meridian acupressure points.

No experience necessary. $10. Location given with RSVP, near Merritt, Weston. 203-247-1318.

Robin@RobinFriedman.net. EnergyToolsFor DailyLiving.com.

Energy Tools Study Group MeetUp – 7-8:30pm.

Come learn about your energy body - every month will be a different topic or exercise. No experience needed, all are welcome. $15. Location given with RSVP, near Merritt, Weston. 203-2471318. Robin@RobinFriedman.net. Meetup.com/ Energy-Tools-Study-Group.

Reiki Healing Circle – 7-9pm. 1st Thursday. All welcome. Non-Reiki & Reiki practitioners share and experience Reiki. See details on Unity website.

Hosted by Gigi Benanti Reiki master/teacher. $20.

Unity Center for Practical Spirituality, 3 Main St, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGiGiB@ snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com, UnityCenterPS.org.

Pre-Natal Yoga – 7:30-8:45pm. For all stages of pregnancy. This class will combine yoga postures, breath work and relaxation techniques to help release tension and fatigue and prepare for labor, delivery and the post-partum period. Please pre-register for your free trial class. The United Church of Rowayton, 210 Rowayton Ave, Norwalk. 203-253-0764.

KimberlyMotill@gmail.com. FamilyTreeYoga.net.

Channeled Messages and Meditations – 7:309:30pm, 4th Thursday. Through meditation and channeling receive information, energetic atonements and initiations from Spirit. This group is for those who want to develop and expand their energetic vibration. $20. Ridgefield. Call 203-4384893, space is limited.

Albertson Church Healing Service – 7-8pm. 3rd Wednesday. Guided meditation, receive healing energy from church-sanctioned healers and the gift of saging. All are welcome. Free. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich.

203-637-4615.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

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classifieds

friday

saturday

Psychic Tarot Readings – Sunshine Estar Intuitive, Psychic Tarot, Medium Pranic Healer, Reiki II Healer. Free. Black Cat Mystic Shoppe, 143 Bennett St, Bridgeport. 203-414-9786. JohnnyMastri@aol. com. BlackCatShopInBlackRock.com.

Angelic Reiki Meditation with Essential Oils – 8-9am. Receive short, hands-on Angelic Reiki, experience powerful techniques to reduce stress and relax. $10. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave (in the back, downstairs), Norwalk. Pre-register: 203-852-1150.

A Course in Miracles Study Group – 9:15am.

Meets bi-weekly in Westport. Facilitator: Henry Grayson, PhD. Free. To reserve seat and for dates/ location: 203-454-1745.

Reiki Share – 9:30-11:30am. First Friday. With JoAnn Duncan. Reiki shares for those interested in practicing Reiki in a small group setting. Share experiences and help others develop in a safe, fun environment while providing a wonderful, relaxing, rejuvenating experience. $20. Registration required. The Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding.

203-438-3050 or TurningPointReiki.com.

Student Massage Clinic – 11am-1pm. Relax and enjoy a full-body massage at the Danbury Campus public’s Student Massage Therapy Clinic. Wednesday evenings or Friday mornings available. $30/50 minutes. RidleyLowell Business & Technical Institute, 24 Shelter Rock Rd, Danbury. Call for appt: 203-748-0052.

Mommy & Me Yoga for Babies 6-weeks Old-Precrawling – 11:15am-12pm. Mom and baby will practice yoga together! This class is a great opportunity to bond with your baby and to connect with other moms.

Pre-register for free trial class. First Presbyterian Church, 1101 Bedford St, Stamford. 203-253-0764.

KimberlyMotill@gmail.com. FamilyTreeYoga.net.

Teen Meditation – 5-6pm. This is an enjoyable approach to the understanding of self and how you fit into the world in which you can grow with confidence. Come and explore a guided meditative journey that helps to melt away stress and anxiety.

For teens and up. $15. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plains St, Bethel. 203-570-3868.

TLC Tarot Fun & Fabulous Tarot Friday – 7-9pm. Have fun with Beth with this self-help tool for novices to longtime tarot friends to explore the Tarot or develop a deeper relationship with your cards. $40. TLC Center Norwalk, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566.

Discussion with Spirit – 7:30pm. Last Friday. Bring questions, receive channeled information to help understand who you are, why you’ve come to the earth plane and empower yourself with messages from Spirit and loved ones. $35. Private residence, Monroe. Information/RSVP: 203-268-3262.

Fairfield County Edition

FOR RENT

Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am.

Mahasati is a form of Insight Meditation. The Redding Center for Meditation’s mission is to help people of all faiths develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way.

Visit ReddingMeditation.org or call 203-244-3130.

GREAT LOCATION IN NORWALK OFF I-95: INDIVIDUAL ROOMS FOR RENT with common reception area, bathroom, parking.

Utilities and cleaning included. Call 203-838-1555 for more information.

The Universal Reiki Plan – 11am-1pm. 3rd Saturday. Reiki Practitioners. Register for a free Reiki session. Free. Love offerings appreciated. Bloodroot Vegetarian Restaurant, 85 Ferris St, Bridgeport.

Reservations, Jim or Jeannette: 203-254-3958, ReikiOvertones@sbcglobal.net. ReikiOvertones.com.

R O O M S AVA I L A B L E F O R R E N T AT HOLISTIC WELLNESS CENTER IN RIDGEFIELD. Weekdays and weekends available. Pleasant, peaceful environment. Ideal for physician, acupuncturist, therapist, etc. Please email DcJohnston@comcast.net

The Universal Reiki Plan – 1:30-4:30pm. 3rd Saturday. Reiki practitioners only. Workshop and Reiki Share. Free. Love offerings appreciated. Bloodroot Vegetarian Restaurant, 85 Ferris St, Bridgeport.

Reservations, Jim or Jeannette: 203-254-3958, ReikiOvertones@sbcglobal.net. ReikiOvertones.com.

Reiki Session – 5-6pm. Offering free Reiki sessions during classes. Students participate as part of class syllabus. 1st reserved. ReikiOvertones, 95 Harris St, Fairfield. Reservations, Jim or Jeannette: 203-254-3958, ReikiOvertones@sbcglobal.net.

ReikiOvertones.com.

Planetary Peace Meditation – 7-8pm. With MiniPranic Healing every Saturday. Please call to reserve a space. Free. Black Cat Mystic Shoppe, 143 Bennett St, Bridgeport. 203-414-9786. JohnnyMastri@aol. com. BlackCatShopInBlackRock.com.

Kirtan with the Bindu Band – 7-9pm. Come join The Bindu Band on their vibrational journey back to the heart. Bring some snacks and beverages to share.

Love offerings accepted. ARC Sacred Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe. Register: 203-268-1272.

Open Mic Night – 7-9pm. 3rd Saturday. Bring music printed out in your key and Kenneth Gartman will accompany on the piano. Comedians, poets and writers welcomed as well. $10. Unity Center, 3 Main St (above the Ford dealership), Norwalk.

203-855-7922.

Circle of Life – 7:30-9:30pm. Third Friday. Explore topics such as love, trust, permission and forgiveness as tools in navigating through life’s opportunities, losses and changes. Learn how to bring love, life and happiness. Notetaking welcome and encouraged. $40. Bridgeport location given with registration: 203-268-3262. TrinityProduction.org.

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To place a Classified Listing: $1 per word. $25 minimum.

Magazine deadline: 12th of month prior to publication.

Email copy to NicoleM @NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

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FOR SALE WOODED 6 ACRE PRIME BUILDING LOT IN GATED LAKE COMMUNITY. Woods at Duck Harbor in Equinunk, PA, near NY state border and Honesdale, PA. Lot borders protected PA game land, gorgeous mountain views in fall and winter, walk to lake. Low taxes and maintenance fees.

If interested, call 914-763-0464.

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

Thomas@ManInMotionLLC.com.

SYNERGY SALON LOOKING FOR HAIRSTYLISTS with an interest in working with organic salon products in an eco-friendly environment.

Please call 203-966-5655.

HOUSE SHARE DO YOU WANT TO FEEL LIKE YOU ARE ON VACATION EVERY DAY? House share on beautiful 9 acre property in Monroe. Large bedroom with walk in closet and private bath. $1,500/monthly includes utilities and biweekly housekeeping. MUST LIKE CATS! 406nolan@ gmail.com or 203-650-1968

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

ACUPUNCTURE INGRI BOE-WIEGAARD, LAc

Fairfield, Wilton, Bethel 203-259-1660 • CTAcupuncture.com 25-year full-time practice Ingri treatments help alleviate Pain, Depression, Neck & Back, Anxiety, Headaches, Stress, Allergies, Asthma, Arthritis, Digestive, Menstrual, Infertility and Smoking & Weight Loss Issues. See ad page 26.

JODY EISEMANN, LAc

Offices in Norwalk and Fairfield 203-216-2548 • AcupunctureHealingCT.com High-quality acupuncture at the most affordable prices in Fairfield County. 20+ years experience, specializing in treating all kinds of pain and general health issues.

See ad page 19.

BREAST THERMOGRAPHY SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER 31 Old Rt 7, Brookfield 203-740-9300 • SophiaNaturalHealth.com

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.

X TO RAYS.COM

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.

CANCER TREATMENT ADVANCED MEDICINE OF MT. KISCO, PC Neil Raff MD CNS 37 Moore Ave, Mt. Kisco, NY 914-241-7030 • NeilRaffMD.com

The most advanced natural nutritional treatment and support for all stages of cancer – high-dose vitamin C, European herbals, Iscador (mistletoe), ozone, immune boosters. Specializing in removal of cancer causing toxins.

Call for free consultation.

CHIROPRACTIC

COLONICS COLONICS

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

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC

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 page 2.

DETOXIFICATION ADVANCED MEDICINE OF MT. KISCO, PC

BLACK ROCK HOLISTIC HEALTH CENTER Kristine DeMarco, DC, MS, FIAMA 825 Kings Hwy East, Fairfield 203-333-6544 • DeMarcoChiropractic.com

Kristine M. DeMarco, Doctorate of Chiropractic and founder of the Black Rock Holistic Health Center, has been successfully specializing in the diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal problems for over 12 years. She is certified in “Cox Flexion Distraction Technique,” Graston Technique, Applied Kinesiology and Acupuncture. Specializes in disc problems, LBP, neck pain and musculoskeletal pain. See ad page 25.

Neil Raff MD CNS 37 Moore Ave, Mt. Kisco, NY 914-241-7030 • NeilRaffMD.com Westchester’s most experienced office for the detection and treatment of toxic metals (lead, mercury, aluminum, etc), the underlying cause of many inflammatory, immune and digestive conditions.

Years of experience with chelation, IV or oral. Call for free consultation.

EDUCATION HOUSATONIC VALLEY WALDORF SCHOOL

40 Dodgingtown Rd, Newtown 203-364-1113 • WaldorfCT.org

RISA SLOVES, DC

Associates in Family Chiropractic & Natural Health Care 156 East Ave, Norwalk 203-838-1555 • CtChiropractic.com Dr. Risa Sloves is 1 of 10 Chiropractic Physicians in Connecticut with Board Certification in Maternity and Pediatric Care including Webster and Bagnell Tu r n i n g Te c h n i q u e s . A l s o provided: acupuncture, BioSET Allergy Elimination Technique and the DRX9000 Spinal Decompression. See ad page 15.

We develop each child’s unique capacity to engage meaningfully in the world by integrating experiential and artistic learning, academic excellence, respect for diversity and reverence for nature. See ad page 30.

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

A nature-based education on six acres of trails, streams, and meadows, with an organic garden and natural playscapes. Our curriculum builds physical and emotional resilience, moral awareness and the foundation required for intellectual growth. See ad page 39.

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November 2014

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GREEN LIVING

INTEGRATIVE HEALTH

PUT IT TOGETHER, LLC INTERIOR DESIGN STUDIO

BLISS NUTRITION & WELLNESS, LLC

Judie Ricciardi, Interior Designer & Owner Middle Quarter Mall, 714 Main St S, Woodbury 203-263-7836 • PutItTogetherLLC@cs.com PutItTogetherLLC.com Create the healthy home of your dreams with beautiful environmentally friendly furniture, fabrics, rugs, interior finishes and paints. Environmental Consulting, “Green” Interior Design and Feng Shui – the perfect balance.

HEALING COACH

Gail Perrella, MS, CNS 2103 Main St, Stratford 203-710-3925 • BlissNutritionCT.com

BioEnergetic Assessment (BEA) is a cutting-edge, non-invasive tool to measure pathways of energy flowing in the body.

Natural healing is increasing harmony between one’s body and the natural environment. BEA provides information which makes it possible to achieve greater health and well-being, naturally.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PHYSICIAN

MARY GILBERTSON MS, BSN,CHHC

Licensed RN, Nutritionist & Certified Health Coach 500 Monroe Tpke, Monroe • 203-521-4733 GilbertsonMary@yahoo.com Prescription4Wellness.com Working 1:1, in groups and corporations to develop customized healthy lifestyle plans. You receive tools to optimize your health through nutrition, disease management, exercise, weight loss & stress reduction. 28 years of experience supporting teens & adults in healthy lifestyle. Available for speaking engagements and health events. See ad page 13.

HOLISTIC DENTIST MARK A. BREINER, DDS, FIAOMT

RIVERSIDE OB/GYN

Russell Turk, MD 1200 East Putnam Ave, Riverside 203-637-3337 Riverside Obstetrics & Gynecology in Greenwich, C T, p a r t o f S t a m f o r d Health Integrated Practices, an affiliate of Stamford Hospital, is a full-service medical practice incorporating traditional and holistic approaches to women’s health. The practice includes one OB/GYN and a naturopathic physician. See ad page 51.

HENRY C. SOBO, M.D.

Optimal Health Medical, LLC 111 High Ridge Rd, Stamfod 203-348-8805 DrSobo.com Dr Sobo provides Natural Hormone therapy, Weight Reduction programs, IV Vitamin/Minerals treatments, Allergy evaluation and treatment, Fibromyalgia care, and treatment for a wide variety of problems utilizing an Integrative Medicine approach.

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 page 2.

HYPNOSIS MIND BODY TRANSFORMATION HYPNOSIS

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

STAMFORD INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE Michael E. Doyle, MD Conventional & Alternative Medicine 22 5th St, Ste 201, Stamford 203-324-4747 StamfordIntegrativeMedicine.com

Fast, effective methods for weight, stress, fear, pain, smoking, etc. Certified Hypnotherapist, Thought Field Therapy™, Time Line Therapy™, NLP and Complementary Medical Hypnosis, since 1989. See ad page 38.

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Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Specializing in Natural and Alternative approaches to restoring health. Focusing on underlying causes of illness. Hypothyroidism, hormonal imbalances, nutrition and much more. See ad page 12.

INTEGRATIVE OPTOMETRY EYECARE ASSOCIATES, PC

Drs. Randy Schulman, Steve Carr, Narvan Bakhtiari, Carl Gruning and C. Lee Mellinger Locations: 6515 Main St, Trumbull • 203-374-2020 139 Main St, Norwalk • 203-840-1991 2600 Post Rd, Southport • 203-255-4005 CTEyeCareAssociates.com We offer behavioral optometry, comprehensive vision exams, contact lenses and vision therapy.

See ad page 39.

INTUITIVE CONSULTANT JOAN CARRA, PSYCHIC MEDIUM 203-531-6387 PsychicJoanCarra.com Facebook.com/PsychicJoan.Carra

Joan is recommended by six books and has 20 years experience. Find solutions, comfort and closure.

Specializing in contacting passed loved ones. Available for private sessions, parties and corporate events.

MASSAGE & BODYWORK iFLOAT

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

See ad page 19.

LAURA CARLSON, LMT

Redding/Monroe/Easton 203-885-7353 (SELF) Facebook.com/LauraCarlsonMassageLLC You deserve to be nurtured and time to be still, to breathe and to restore balance.

Relaxing and nourishing massage will encourage positive changes in your mind and body. Individual sessions and massage parties available.

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 page 24.

ZAK WALKER, LMT

Wellness Institute One Westport Ave, Norwalk 203-443-6679 • ZaxWeb@gmail.com I combine elements of Swedish and Deep Tissue Massage, Acupressure and Myofascial Release, according to the goals and preferences of each client. I’m here to help you feel your best!

MASSAGE SCHOOL FINGER LAKES SCHOOL OF MASSAGE

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

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

We teach and practice Mahasati meditation. Mahasati meditation cultivates self-awareness through attention to the movement of the body and, at more advanced levels, to the movement of the mind.

No prior meditating experience is necessary. Ongoing weekly meditation classes, retreats and events. Please check monthly event calendar or visit ReddingMeditation.org for updated information.

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN DEBRA GIBSON, ND

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN MARVIN P. SCHWEITZER, ND

100 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 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 page 10.

NATURAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER

Wellness Institute 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203-847-2788 • DrMarvinSchweitzer.com Family Health Care using all natural therapies for 25 years.

Acupuncture, Bio-Identical Hormones, Homeopathy, Chinese/ Western Herbs, Allergy/Toxin Testing, Oxygen Therapy, Meridian Stress Assessment, Nutrition/ Enzyme Therapies. See ad page 14.

Lisa Singley, ND, MS 2103 Main St, Ste #2, Stratford 203-874-4333 Info@NHAWC.com • NHAWC.com

SHALVA CLINIC, LLC

We use advanced diagnostic testing with safe, effective, allnatural healing modalities and treatment options to treat acute and chronic conditions, restore balance and treat the mind, body and spirit. Specialists in endocrine disorders, digestive issues, pain management and chronic fatigue. We offer comprehensive solutions to prevent illness and maintain optimal health for body, mind and spirit. See ad page 35.

Dr. Lewis offers comprehensive holistic care for women including well-women exams, fertility, thyroid and menopause support.

She also has a special interest in pediatrics and utilizes a variety of natural modalities when working with patients with ADD/ADHD, autism, allergies, eczema and asthma. Treatments include herbal medicine, functional medicine, biotherapeutic drainage, homeopathy and more. See ad page 49.

DR. MARINA YANOVER, ND, LAC

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC

Ellen M. Lewis, ND, Director 260 Riverside Ave, Westport 203-916-4600 • ShalvaClinic.org

1720 Post Rd East, Ste 213, 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.

Adam Breiner, ND, Director Elena Sokolova, MD, ND David Brady, ND, CCN, DACBN Fairfield/Trumbull town line 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com

NORTHEAST NATURAL MEDICINE, LLC Shawn M. Carney, ND 19 Church Hill Rd, Ste 1, Newtown 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.

eNaturalAwakenings.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 page 2.

November 2014

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ORGANIC MATTRESSES & BEDDING

PSYCHOTHERAPY DENI WEBER, MA, LPC, D-CEP

ORGANIC SLEEP BY SLEEP ETC.

508 Main Ave, Norwalk • 203-846-2233 55 High Ridge Rd, Stamford • 203-323-1509 Founded in 1947, Sleep Etc now offers a new line of socially responsible bedding products, including higher quality, more comfortable and, longer-lasting mattresses. See ad page 8.

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

THE CLEAN BEDROOM

79 West Putnam Ave, Greenwich 203-292-9275 | 866-380-5892 TheCleanBedroom.com

JUDITH BARR, LPC, CCMHC

The Clean Bedroom is a n o rg a n i c and all-natural mattress and bedding resource with seven showrooms, including its new location in Greenwich. Through its showrooms and web site, eco-minded shoppers gain insight to create a healthier sleep environment. See ad page 5.

PERSONAL GROWTH ALZBETA PESKOVA

Norwalk 203-326-0405 Info@Yoga2LifeCoaching.com Yoga2LifeCoaching.com

PHYSICAL THERAPY PHYSICAL THERAPY OF SOUTHERN CT

Linda Maude, PT 917 Bridgeport Ave, Shelton 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.

Fairfield County Edition

Depth psychotherapist Judith Barr helps you grow consciously and safely, heal to the root, reconnecting with your Self. As “spiritual midwife,” she helps you give deeper, fuller birth to your Self. Weary of trying to solve your problems by “managing” thoughts and feelings? You don’t need to resign yourself to suffering. Heal to the root with Judith. See ad page 63.

MARIA C. CASTILLO, MSW, LCSW

I am a life/mentor coach and yoga instructor. My mission is to help people to clarify their dreams, goals, and real potential. Making meaningful changes in our lives can be tough when we try to do it all by ourselves. The professional support, insight, and accountability of coaching can help you make lasting breakthroughs.

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Brookfield 203-775-5006 • JudithBarr.com PowerAbusedPowerHealed.com

238 Monroe Tpke, Ste B, Monroe 203-445-8966 • Msisi@aol.com LifeBetweenLivesTherapy. com Past Life Regression, trained by Brian Weiss, MD. Life Between Lives Hypnotherapy, trained by TNI and Michael Newton, PhD. Traditional psychotherapy with a spiritual approach; Reiki. Connect with your soul self and let your inner wisdom guide you.

ROBIN ORDAN, LCSW

Family, Child, Individual & Couples Therapy Old Greenwich/Stamford 203-561-8535 • RobinOrdanLCSW.com Robin has more than 18 years of experience working with families and children.

Specializing in Divorce, Parent/Child Conflict, Grief, Attachment/Bonding, Child Development and Parenting. See ad page 62.

natural awakenings

PSYCHOTHERAPY VICTORIA SHAW, PHD

Intuitive Psychotherapist 3 Hollyhock Ln, Wilton • 203-210-5700 VictoriaShawPsychotherapy.com VictoriaShawintuitive.com I combine the best of traditional psychotherapy with intuitive guidance in my work with children, teens and adults. My goal is to connect clients with their own inner source of strength, wisdom and healing. See ad page 19.

REIKI EMBODY THE SACRED® Deana Paqua, MA, LMT 203-994-5045 EmbodyTheSacred.net

Turn your deepest pain or trauma into your greatest strength.

Shamanic Reiki, Usui/Karuna® Reiki, Shamanic Healing and Bodywork. Offerings in Ridgefield, Danbury and NY areas.

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

Gigi is an experienced Reiki Master/Teacher. She offers all levels of Reiki training monthly.

All classes and Reiki sessions include the latest techniques including Karuna®, Angelic and Jikiden Reiki.

THE LIGHT OF HAPPINESS REIKI AND WELLNESS

Deborah Arconti, LPN, RMT, IARP Reiki Master/Teacher Advance Practice IET™ Danbury • 203-470-0635 TheLightOfHappiness.com Specializing in Reiki and IET™ sessions for mind, body and spirit connections. IET™ “Integrated Energy Therapy” uses angelic connections for soothing results.

Teaching all levels of small Usui Reiki classes, experienced in training healthcare professionals.

REIKI RIVER’S EDGE REIKI Lori Haggerty Usui Reiki Master Bethel 203-994-8978 RiversEdgeReiki.com

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

TURNING POINT REIKI, LLC JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT Reiki Master Ridgefield • 203-438-3050 TurningPointReiki.com TurningPointShare.com

JoAnn uses intuition, experience and a deep spiritual connection in her Reiki, IET and Reconnective Healing sessions. Specializing in care for individuals with Cancer, Lyme disease and Back Pain. All Reiki levels taught.

VIRGINIA TRINQUE, USUI REIKI MASTER 844-733-1330, Danbury VirginiasHealthyLiving@gmail.com VirginiasHealthyLiving.com

Virginia is a Reiki Master/Teacher with years of experience healing children and adults. Specializing in physical and spiritual pain relief and “body and soul integration” for easier living in this world. Usui Reiki classes offered for Master level, Levels I and II and Teacher Training. Sessions and classes held in a private, serene setting.

RESULTS COACHING JEFF FORTE PEAK RESULTS COACHING

2389 Main St, Glastonbury 860-633-8555 • PeakResultsCoaching.com Want to quickly improve your marriage or personal happiness?

Hope is not a strategy for success.

Call to learn proven strategies to overcome your life challenges. See ad page 35.

TRANSFORMATIVE HEALING BETH PRINS LEAS

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

See ad page 19.

SOLAR ENERGY PUREPOINT ENERGY

28 Knight St, Norwalk 203-642-4105 • PurePointEnergy.com PurePoint Energy is dedicated to providing quality solar electric projects that make our clients’ lives, our communities and our planet a better place. See ad, page 29.

SPORTS NUTRITION THRIVE RESULTS COACHING

Kristina Hess, CHHC, SNS, FDN, CHT 30 Old Kings Hwy S, Ste 223, Darien 203-984-7989 Kristina@ThriveResultsCoaching.com ThriveResultsCoaching.com Facebook.com/ThriveRC Pinterest.com/KristinaHess Twitter.com/ThriveRC Feeling fatigued? Are you working out but not losing weight? Have a Certified Health Coach and Sports Nutrition Specialist with expertise in stress management and performance optimization test your adrenal function, food sensitivities and figure out your “brain type.” I Provide biofeedback training in HRV, meal planning and mindful eating exercises to support your goal achievement. See ad page 19.

HEART’S DESIRE METHOD Shiloh@TheHDMethod.com TheHDMethod.com

The Heart’s Desire Method – 7 Steps to making your dreams come true. Bring highdefinition focus on what you want in all areas – work, family, relationships and money. By energizing the healing power of the authentic self, you will lead a happier, more peaceful and fulfilling life.

WELLNESS CENTER KURE SPA

430 Main Ave, 2nd Flr Norwalk (Wilton Line) 203-857-1500 Kure-Spa.com Opening in November to provide a place for people to rely on as part of their weekly routine to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Experience our 4-Pillars of Health for 30-days and we’ll transform your life to one of Health, Healing & Vitality! Offering Vibrosaun, yoga, massage, and an organic juice bar. See ad page 7.

new from 60 capsules: $34.99 shipping: $5 (up to 8 bottles)

ORDER TODAY!

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or call 1-888-822-0246

Pleasant Dreams™ contains a blend of safe, natural sleepinducing ingredients including chamomile, valerian root and melatonin which may help to: • Maintain sleep all night • Reduce anxiety symptoms • Facilitate relaxation without • Improve pain tolerance morning drowsiness

Consult a healthcare professional before taking this product.

Pleasant Dreams is not intended to cure, treat, diagnose or mitigate any disease or other medical condition.

These statements have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

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November 2014

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The Center for Naturopathic Medicine/Susan Rzucidlo, ND

9

Chamomille Natural Foods

43

The Clean Bedroom

5

The Cleanest Touch

25

CLH Counseling/Cynthia Haupt

17

The Computer Fairy

13

Dog Gone Smart

56

Lipo-Light/Westport Chiropractic

Mrs. Greens Natural Markets

Fairfield County Edition

17

Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic

Robin Ordan, LCSW

Healthy Choice Mattress

74

Newtown Hypnosis/Ronna Brier

Robin Ordan, LMT

Michael E. Doyle, MD/ Stamford Integrative Medicine

Search “Natural Awakenings Fairfield County”

Nature’s Temptations Healthy Food Market 42

natural awakenings

The Liver is Complex

We Make It Simple Red Palm Oil & Hepatiben POWERFUL DETOXIFIER LIVER CELL REGENERATOR

Natural Awakenings

Holiday Gift Guide We know it as the most wonderful time of the year, yet too often the holiday season pushes wellness to the back burner.

For this year’s gift-giving season, Natural Awakenings has gathered meaningful and practical gift ideas from local businesses to ease the stress of holiday shopping. With friends and family in mind, have fun practicing conscious consumerism with these ideas for gifts of wellness.

Patricia’s Presents Beautiful Objects for Discerning Customers A treasure trove of unique gift items to suit all tastes!

Pet and Equestrian Themed Items

We take liver health seriously!

800.387.2278 www.livermedic.com

EXPERIENCE WELLNESS, PURPOSE & ABUNDANCE Young Living Essential Oils Can Provide An Opportunity To Earn Income While Helping Others and Keeping Your Family Healthier!

To earn a Free Diffuser or learn more contact Mario DiLorenzo at 845-656-1400 or mdilore1@ gmail.com YOUNG LIVING ESSENTIAL OILS

www.ownyourlife.marketingscents.com

Gifts

Something for Every Occasion

RELAX

RENEW

ESCAPE

Shop by product categories: • Beauty & Skin Care • Spas & Facial Treatments • Yoga & Fitness Classes • Organic Holiday Foods

Escape Salon and Escape Salon andBoutique Boutique

where exceeding your expectations our#1 priority where exceeding your expectations is isour # 1 priority.

Lucious Vegan Leather Goods

deserve best You deserve the best...You from our the friendly, outstanding service from our friendly, outstanding service to the quality, organic Aveda product we use. to the quality, organic Aveda products we use.

Stunning Fair Trade Jewelry… and more

Patricia’s Presents 199 Ethan Allen Highway Ridgefield, CT 06877

860-946-9705

www.patriciaspresents.com Plentiful Parking!

Visit our boutique for a unique shopping experience where every purchase makes a Visit our boutique for a unique shopping experience where difference in someones life. every purchase makes difference someone’s life.

We feature handcrafted , USA made, a eco-friendly gifts in from local and global artisans.

Wemake feature USA made, Our salon team will you handcrafted, look great on the outside while shopping our boutique eco-friendly gifts from local and global artisans. will make you feel good on the inside.

Visitwill us today your new ESCAPE Our salon team makeand youfind look great on the outside while

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eNaturalAwakenings.com

November 2014

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Looking To Transform Your Interest In Health And Wellness Into A Meaningful Career?

Join The Circle!

The Graduate Institute Offers Unique Masters and Certificate Programs in Emerging Fields of Inquiry Finding your community is the first step in the journey.

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Fairfield County Edition

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