Natural Awakenings Fairfield County December 2014 by Natural Awakenings Magazine

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Awakening Humanity Sacred Activism True Freedom, True Self Dine Locally on Sustainable Fare Holiday Fundraisers Benefit Animals Toxin-Free Beauty: Sparkle with Natural Regimens December 2014 | Fairfield County Edition | eNaturalAwakenings.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2014

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

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.

Join Us!

2015 Natural Living Directory Increased Year-Round Circulation! Be in the community’s go-to natural health annual reference guide!

$99

22 TOXIN-FREE

BEAUTY SALONS Pure Pampering Feels Natural and Safe

by Sarah Tarver-Wahlquist

24 SPARKLE WITH A

NATURAL BEAUTY REGIMEN

Your Whole Body Will Thank You by Angela Pascopella

Listing Special* LAST YEAR’S EDITION

32 THE GREENEST TREE A Guide to Cut Your

Own Christmas Tree

34 SACRED ACTIVISM Love in Action Can Change the World by Judith Fertig

36 TRUE FREEDOM, TRUE SELF

Natural Awakenings Fairfield County Let our more than 60,000 readers in Fairfield and Litchfield Counties learn about your business – all year! Be a part of this special annual issue, with one or more directory listings or a profile of your work.

*Early Pricing ends December 12, 2014 (After December 12th $125 • Final Deadline 1/12/15)

RESERVE YOUR SPACE NOW

203-885-4674 FFCAdvertising@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

Ask about our

PRACTITIONER PROFILES available in this annual edition

Engage the Spirit’s Restlessness by Kim Morey Feeney

42 SINGING THE

WORLD AWAKE by Tom Kenyon

52 HOLIDAY

FUNDRAISERS TO BENEFIT ANIMALS Local Adoption Events and Holiday Fundraisers by Leslie McLean

58 DINE LOCALLY ON

SUSTAINABLE AND ORGANIC FARE

by Eileen Weber

Fairfield County Edition

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7 newsbriefs 18 healthbriefs 20 globalbriefs 27 greenliving 30 beautyandspaprofiles 39 spiritualcenterprofiles 20 42 healingways 44 therapyspotlight 46 naturallyhealthypet 53 petresourceguide 58 inspiredtable 63 foodiemarketplace 64 holidaygiftguide 67 calendar 72 classifieds 73 resourceguide 78 cosmicrhythms 78 displayadindex

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.

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December 2014

letterfrompublisher

he mission of Natural Awakenings each month is to support your efforts to live your best life, intrigued, inspired and empowered by the information, people and businesses you find on our pages. As we’ve been preparing this issue, I’ve been thinking of it in my head as the “heaven and earth” edition. This month’s spectrum of articles deals with weighty spiritual and sacred concepts while also presenting some terrific, practical and actionable information for enhancing natural physical beauty Nicole Miale without toxins (including great natural beauty gift ideas) and experiencing the holiday season with more joy and less stress. It seems to me a wonderful juxtaposition. After all, we may be spiritual beings inhabiting these physical forms for only a short time, but why wouldn’t we want that physical form to look and feel its best at family and holiday gatherings? The truth is we deserve to look and feel our best at all times, in all ways. Awakening to that understanding and embracing the seeking nature of our restless spirits is, I believe, part of why we are all here on Earth. I like to think we are here to explore, learn and evolve, hopefully leaving the planet a better place than we found it. This month we feature profiles of some wonderful spiritual and earthly centers in our local community where you can attend to the needs of your whole being, from the sacred to the more prosaic.

contact us Publisher/Executive Editor Nicole Miale Editor Ariana Rawls Fine Design & Production Kathleen Fellows Erica Mills Contributing Writers Donna Gleason Leslie McLean Natasha Michaels Mary Oquendo Eileen Weber Sales & Marketing Leslie McLean 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.

As 2014 comes to a close, I am reminded yet again how very blessed I am to be doing something I love and how grateful I am to have the opportunity to serve my community as a mirror, bridge and sherpa at the same time. In 2015, we will celebrate Natural Awakenings Fairfield County’s 10th year of publication; we look forward to unveiling new things for you as the new year unfolds. For now, I wish you the happiest of holidays, filled with both earthly pleasure and sacred, special moments of grace, whatever those both mean for you. Thank you for reading, distributing and advertising in Natural Awakenings. You make it possible, you make it worthwhile, and you matter. Every page is created with you in mind. With love and light, and my warmest wishes for a wonderful holiday season and new year,

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.

Fairfield County Edition

See our advertiser index on page 78. Making it easier to find the resources you need. natural awakenings

newsbriefs Finding Homes for Fairfield County Heroes

eff Grossarth and Manny Gomes want to find homes for American heroes. Grossarth, a realtor with Platinum Property Realty in Norwalk, and Gomes, a mortgage banker with Norcom Mortgage in Fairfield, are part of a unique Homes for Heroes network that helps military personnel, police, firefighters, teachers, first responders, health care workers and other public servants save money on the sale and purchase of real estate. People taking advantage of the program receive 25 percent rebate of the commission on the sale or purchase of a home. Gomes and other mortgage providers in the Homes for Heroes program provide discounts on closing fees. As the Homes for Heroes affiliate in Bridgeport, Grossarth can approach workers in Bridgeport to participate or work with any hero that approaches him in any other Connecticut towns. Homes for Heroes is now expanding discounts beyond the home buying and selling process with its Friends of Heroes program. They have partnered with community-minded businesses both locally and nationally to provide heroes discounts.

Natural

Healthcare Alternatives Family Based Chiropractic Care

Specializing In Infants, Children, and Pre and Postnatal Women

Pre and Postnatal Women

Back, Pelvic, Neck, Shoulder, and Arm Pain • Headaches Carpal Tunnel Syndrome • Improve spinal and pelvic alignment to help babies in the breech or occiput posterior "sunny side up" presentations • Reduce The Incidence of C-Section

Children

Ear Infections • Asthma & Allergies • Scoliosis • Colic Reﬂux • ADHD • Sports Injuries • Torticollis Lactation Issues / Tongue-Tie Complications

Dr. Risa M. Sloves

Dr. Sloves has 25 years of experience and is one of the only Chiropractic Physicians in Connecticut with Board Certiﬁcation in Maternity and Pediatric Care.

Call 203-838-1555

Associates in Family Chiropractic 156 East Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06851 www.ctChiropractic.com

For more information, visit JGrossarth.Listingbook.com or HomesforHeroes.com or call Grossarth at 203-209-9037 or Gomes at 203-673-2131.

Saltana Cave Adds Organic Skin Care Line

altana Cave has recently expanded its services by adding organic, non-GMO Annmarie Gianni Skin Care products. The chemical-free vegan product line—endorsed by functional medicine physicians—includes skin oils, scrubs and serums. Saltana Cave Owner Anna Husted wanted to add a product line to support her and her clients’ desire for healthy, fresh-looking skin without chemicals and toxins. “Everything that is in the products is on the label,” says Annmarie Gianni. “The products are as close to nature as you can get.” Saltana Cave’s salt cave treatment (also known as halotherapy) is a unique form of alternative therapy that provides deep relaxation as well as relief from many respiratory ailments. Salt therapy is naturally anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral. For more information, visit SaltanaCave.com or call 203-969-4327. Location: 590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 77.

~ 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 eNaturalAwakenings.com

Open Every Day Until 5:30

December 2014

newsbriefs Family Dietician Announces New Westport Location

egistered Dietician/Nutritionist Abby Greenspun, MS, RD, CDN, is announcing the opening of her new office at 840 Post Road East in Westport. In her new location, Greenspun will continue to provide adults, adolescents and children with the tools and education to prevent Abby Greenspun disease, improve health and lose weight. “I have been a nutritionist for 21 years, interest in the relationship between what we eat and our well-being, my business is growing,” says Greenspun. “I am happy to be able to provide a new office that is easily accessible for my Fairfield County clients.” While patients often come to Greenspun for weight management programs, she also offers medical nutrition therapy to help clients work through medical conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, heart disease, diseases of the gastrointestinal system, celiac disease, PCOS, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer and lupus. She works closely with her clients’ treating physicians to ensure they are receiving the best possible advice for their particular disease or disorder. For more information, visit AbbyGNutrition.com or call 203-522-3288.

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Lamplight Strolling in Milford

njoy a classic New England tradition during the 13th Annual Downtown Milford Lamplight Stroll on December 5 and 6. Holiday-themed activities will take place from 5 to 9pm on Friday, and again from 4 to 9pm on Saturday. This is a family-friendly event presented by the Downtown Milford Business Association and sponsored by Star 99.9. Downtown Milford’s shops, spas and salons will greet visitors with refreshments, holiday cheer and holiday shopping opportunities. Attendees will enjoy free horse and carriage rides, Christmas holiday carolers, the Christian Cornerstone Choir and the Senior Center Chorale Group, Christmas Spirit of Milford Ghost Walks, Santa’s arrival via train, holiday singalongs, performances by the Creative Movement Dance Company, face painting with Jammie the Gentle Clown and more. A lucky shopper will win a holiday gift basket - worth hundreds of dollars - filled with gift certificates, goodies, surprises and treats from downtown businesses. Beginning Thanksgiving weekend, visitors can pick up a Passport to Savings at any participating Lamplight Stroll shop or business. They can be stamped anytime from December 5 to 13. Those collecting stamps from all participating businesses by December 13 will be eligible to enter a drawing to win the holiday basket.

For more information, visit DowntownMilfordCT.org or call 203-878-9686.

Wilton Businesses Can Earn ‘Green Business Designation’

ilton Go Green (WGG) is launching an effort to help attain its goal of making Wilton the most environmentally sustainable town in Connecticut. It has instituted a “Wilton Green Business Designation” for companies, businesses and organizations that demonstrate leadership in sustainable practices. It’s one of the first initiatives being rolled out by WGG’s new president, Peg Koellmer of Realty Seven. WGG lists about four dozen sustainable practices or steps that businesses can take to make them more environmentally friendly. Businesses can earn either a “Green” or “Platinum” status by completing a certain number of actions in each of the categories – education, water, indoor environment, transportation and energy. Koellmer acknowledges some of the actions that involve changes to physical space may be harder for business owners who rent, so WGG worked hard to ensure the steps businesses could take were realistic. By completing steps, businesses receive a certificate and a door decal to display publicly. “If you can do some of these things that seem relatively simple – for instance, having glass mugs instead of paper cups in an office – every time you pick up that glass mug, you’ll be reminded and aware,” Koellmer explains. Some of the actions on the WGG checklist include repairing all drips and leaks, using low- or no-VOC paints, offering safe and secure bicycle parking areas, and planning a strategy for the green initiatives to be implemented.

HVWS_parentchild_4.75x2.25_NatAwake_Dec2014_HVS PM K_CT par 2007 11/11/14 3:28 PM Page

Education That Reaches Your Core Parent-Child Classes Wed or Thurs: 9:30 to 11:30am

40 Dodgingtown Rd., Newtown, CT 06470 203.364.1113 • www.waldorfct.org Accredited by CAIS and AWSNA

SERVING STUDENTS & FAMILIES THROUGH 8TH GRADE

Service is the rent we pay for the privilege of living on this Earth. It is the very purpose of life, and not something you do in your spare time. ~Shirley Chisholm

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For more information, visit GoodMorningWilton.com/ Wilton-Businesses-Can-Earn-GreenBusiness-Designation.

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December 2014

Personal Wellness Center Inspiring You to Live Your Best Life!

newsbriefs Fairfield’s Hazel Daze Features Connecticut Artists

• Intuitive/Psychic Readings • Mediumistic Readings • Holistic Health Coaching • Health & Healing Program for Cancer Patients

1895 Post Rd, Fairfield Sage Osa 203.767.6237 ~ MyPersonalWellness.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!

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ver the past three years, Hazel Daze Boutique has become known for its small town vibe and local flavor. More than 25 Connecticut-based artists have their handiwork featured inside. The inventory ranges from jewelry created from everyday silverware to sun catchers created from sea glass collected on local beaches. Other items include handcrafted leather belts with buckles made of semi-precious stones, hand-painted glassware, up-cycled polymer clay jewelry boxes, and freshwater pearl and gemstone lariat necklaces. In addition to being known for its “funky” home goods, the boutique also carries fair trade products. Hazel Daze’s owner, Lib DeNure, supports the local community by hosting Shop for a Cause shopping nights, Paint and Sip parties and participating in local pop-up markets sponsored by The National Charity Foundation. Hazel Daze Boutique is open Tuesday through Friday 11am - 6pm and Saturday through Monday noon - 5pm. For more information, visit Facebook.com/ HazelDazeBoutique, @HazelDazeBoutique on Instagram and @HazelDazeStore on Twitter or call 203-292-9662. Location: 86 Post Rd, Fairfield. tmk_holidaystroll_Logo_2014.pdf

What if, instead of just resigning yourself to suffering, grasping for bandaids, or trying to escape your suffering . . .

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

A forest retreat tucked away in the hills of lower Fairfield C ounty • Chartre Labyrinth • Moss Stroll • Hiking Trails • Drumming & Ukulele • Nature School Programs

• Licensed Kitchen Rental • Cooking Classes • Yoga & Tai Chi • Moss & Stone

Available for Events, Reunions, and Weddings

y y 203-270-8820

www.sticksandstonesfarm.com

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

he holiday season will come to life in 6TH ANNUAL downtown Greenwich during the 6th Annual Greenwich Holiday Stroll Weekend, taking place on December 6 from 10am to 4 6pm and December 7 from noon to 5pm. This annual event will include horse-drawn carriage rides, carolers, musicians, professional ice sculptors, bouncy castles for children, food vendors, a Greenwich Art Council family art workshop, and more than 100 participating retailers and restaurants offering special promotions, refreshments and holiday cheer. A new attraction this year, in front of First United Methodist Church of Greenwich, is a live nativity scene featuring a camel, llama, cow, donkey and five sheep. A visit with live reindeer and photos with Santa at McArdle’s Florist & Garden Center Center completes the event. During the Greenwich Holiday Stroll Weekend, $5 from every photo with Santa and $5 from every wreath purchased at McArdle’s will be donated to Kids in Crisis. The Greenwich Holiday Stroll Weekend was created and is produced by TMK Sports & Entertainment, LLC, a Greenwich-based event marketing company.

y y

Greenwich Holiday Stroll Weekend Returns

11:18:18 AM

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

5/30/14

CMY

For more information, visit GreenwichReindeerFestival.com.

Lotus Holiday Sale & Celebration

Transformation For Life

he Lotus Wellness Center will hold its annual holiday celebration on December 6 from 10am to 6pm in Greenwich. Artists will be on site with a selection of gifts for sale, including handmade gemstone jewelry, pottery, essential oils, paintings, oracles cards, organic salves, sprays, tinctures, silk eye pillows, CDs, gemstone hearts, angels and more. Practitioners with more than 20 years experience will be offering 20-minute sessions in sound healing, numerology readings, spiritual counseling and Ayurvedic lifestyle empowerment. Gift certificates will also be for sale. Hot apple cider, tea and holiday baked goods will be offered. There is no entry fee. For more information, please email Info@LotusWellnessCtr. com or call 203-531-4784. Location: 46 Pemberwick Rd, Greenwich.

Ridgefield’s Prospector Theater Gala Opening

he Prospector Theater, a non-profit movie theater created specifically for the purpose of providing training and jobs for adults with disabilities, has been beautifully restored on the site of the original Ridgefield Playhouse after years of planning and construction. On November 20, a gala reception marked the official opening of The Prospector, featuring Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Part I, the latest installment of the popular Hunger Games series. The unemployment rate for individuals with disabilities is nearly 80 percent in the U.S. The need to help provide meaningful opportunities was driven by Prospector’s founder, Valerie Jensen, after seeing first-hand the sense of fulfillment her sister Hope, born with Down Syndrome, experienced when tasked with meaningful work. “Our friends with disabilities are eager to work,” says Jensen, “not just for their own satisfaction and to earn a living, but also to show others in the community that they too can be viewed as independent, contributing members of society.” The Prospector’s façade is architecturally designed and restored to its original design, but once moviegoers enter the building, they will find the theater now features a contemporary look with state-of-the-art technology, artwork and amenities, including a café, restaurant and bar. The Prospector is now home to four digital theaters – all with 3D digital projectors and stadium seating. The theaters will show firstrun movies as well as be available for rentals and events. For more information, visit ProspectorTheater.org or call 203-438-0136. Location: 25 Prospect St, Ridgefield.

YOGA MASSAGE FACIALS

Wellness Center 203-617-8228

80 North St., Danbury, CT 06810 www.liveyourtransformation.com

Wellness From Within Reiki Master

Jill Hill € Usui Reiki Sessions € House Calls for Pets

203-722-4362 Ridgeﬁeld, CT spiritvibe11@gmail.com

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• 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

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 eNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2014

newsbriefs

New Hormonal Imbalance Workshop at Nature’s Way

Open House: Go Vertical for the Holidays

S S

tamford’s Vertical Addiction will hold its 2014 Holiday Open House on December 14 from noon to 3pm. Vertical Addiction is an aerial arts studio for woman of all ages to build strength, body awareness and confidence. The open house will feature vendors including energy readings, the ladies of JOIN, henna tattoos, makeup and more. A free pole package will also be raffled off. Light refreshments will be served. Vertical Addiction sits above the Noelle Spa and houses six poles reaching 10 feet high. We offer beginner to advanced level pole classes, flexibility, FlyGym, floorwork, chair dance and lap dance. The instructors of Vertical Addiction are all ElevatED-certified pole fitness instructors with years of training and teaching under their belts. These women each bring a unique specialty to create well-rounded dancers. For more information, visit VerticalAddictionCT.com or call 203-883-8383. Location: 1100 High Ridge Rd, Stamford.

tratford’s Nature’s Way Health Foods will host a free lecture, Diagnosing and Treating Hormonal Imbalances, on December 9 from 6:30 to 8:30pm. Lisa Singley, ND, MS, will speak about hormonal imbalances that affect women and will review the signs and symptoms of hormonal imbalances, as well as discuss their role in the function of the thyroid and adrenal glands. Diagnostic testing Lisa Singley options and treatment strategies will also be covered. On January 6, Lisa Singley, ND, MS, and Ruth Davenport, MS, will hold a Managing Diabetes workshop at Nature’s Way that will offer a basic introduction about diabetes, nutrition for diabetes, supplements/botanical medicines and health lifestyle practices. Nature’s Way Health Foods, founded in 1974 in Stratford, offers natural health products such as vitamin/herbal supplements, body care items and specialty foods. For more information, visit NaturesWayHealthFoods.com or call 203-377-3652. Location: 922 Barnum Ave Cutoff, Stratford. See ad, page 68.

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With Decades of Integrity, Dedication & Service 12

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Waldorf School Renovation Nears Completion

he Housatonic Valley Waldorf School in Newtown is celebrating its 25th year of providing Waldorf Education in Connecticut. To mark this milestone, it seemed appropriate to strengthen the school’s foundation - the early childhood program - both figuratively and literally. Finishing touches are underway on the complete renovation of the Rose Garden building that houses the mixed-age early childhood program, as well as the Morning Glories parent-child classes. While retaining the same building footprint, the inside was reconfigured to create more useable space and light-filled classrooms. The school can now accommodate more families in its parent-child classes. The Rose Garden building will be ready for the first Kindermorning of the year on December 9. The program offers an opportunity for parents to take a sample class right alongside their 3-5 year old. For more information on Waldorf Education, visit WaldorfCT. org. To register for class at Housatonic Valley Waldorf School, visit WaldorfCT.org/ParentChildRegistration. Location: 40 Dodgingtown Rd, Newtown. See ad, page 9.

New Running Company Takes Off in Ridgefield

idgefield Running Company, a new running shop and service in Ridgefield, focuses on building your run with personal service and attention, modern-day fit analysis and products, and a strong sense of community in both the local and running scene. With more than 15 years of experience, Deb Povinelli, MPT, MPH, is a physical therapist, certified pre- and postnatal personal trainer and founder of Beyond Baby Fitness, which specializes in both pre- and post-natal fitness and exercise. Megan Searfoss is founder of Run Like a Mother, a national brand that hosts a national 5K race on Mother’s Day. She is author of See Mom Run: Every Mother’s Guide to Getting Fit and Running Her First 5K. Searfoss has coached thousands of athletes through her Run Like a Mother training programs and is a licensed health coach, personal trainer, triathlon and cycling coach. The shop is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10am – 6pm, Thursday 10am – 7pm, Saturday 9am - 5pm and Sunday 11am – 4pm. On Monday, the shop is closed for a rest and recovery day. For more information, visit RidgefieldRunning.com, email Info@RidgefieldRunning.com or call 203-438-7778. Location: 88 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2014

newsbriefs Be a Part of the 2015 Natural Living Directory!

ach February for the past four years, Natural Awakenings Fairfield County has offered the community a special edition reference guide to practitioners and businesses devoted to natural health, environmentally conscious living and personal empowerment. This is the perfect opportunity to showcase your practice and business within the vibrant and evolving Natural Awakenings community. The special annual directory of Natural Awakenings magazine serves as a handy reference for consumers to keep at their fingertips all year long and turn to when searching for the products and services they want to live a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle. February 2015 will mark the fifth annual Natural Awakenings Natural Living Directory and those involved have the opportunity to reach more than 70,000 engaged readers in Fairfield and southern Litchfield Counties at more than 1,200 distribution points across the region. If you have been contemplating entering the Natural Awakenings community as an advertiser, increased yearround circulation makes February’s Natural Living Directory the one issue of the year not to miss or the perfect edition to begin a Natural Awakenings marketing program in 2015. Special directory listing prices are available until December 12. Discounted profile pricing is available for current advertisers. For more information, email FFCAdvertising@Natural AwakeningsMag.com, call 203-885-885-4674 or contact your local district sales manager. See ad, page 4.

Winter Programs at Two Coyotes Wilderness School

wo Coyotes Wilderness School is launching several winter programs in Newtown and Granby, starting in January. Coyote Village for Homeschoolers is a wilderness-based mentoring program where children ages 5 to 12 will learn ancient wilderness survival skills, awareness and naturalist skills while developing character. The program takes place Mondays at Holcomb Farm in West Granby and Thursdays at Newtown’s Cullens Youth Association. In the Fire Keepers Advanced Teen Homeschool Program, each semester is filled with different wilderness projects and adventures for students on Mondays in Granby and Fridays at Sticks & Stones Farm in Newtown. During Wild Winter Sundays, children will explore the natural landscape and resident animals, build winter shelters and fires and foster better connections with nature. Geared toward 8-12 year olds, the program takes place January 11, February 8 and March 8 in Newtown. On January 23 in Newtown, Andy Dobos and Deneen Bernier of Three Red Trees School of Natural Living will share an evening slideshow presentation on Winter Wildlife Tracking - Presenting the Basics to introduce families to the world of wildlife through the eyes of local naturalists. The introduction is followed by Winter Wildlife Tracking - Workshop in the Wild at the White Memorial Conservation Center in Litchfield on January 24 for adults and older teenagers. Attendees will follow the tracks and signs of animal species to gain insight and a greater connection to the natural world. For more information or to register, visit TwoCoyotes.org. Locations: Cullens Youth Association, 72 Taunton Lake Rd, Newtown; Sticks & Stones Farm, 201 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown; Holcomb Farm, 113 Simsbury Rd, West Granby.

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Upcoming Events at Albertson Memorial Church

lbertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, located in Old Greenwich, will be hosting several events in December, including a Spiritual, Psychic & Healing Fair on December 6 from noon to 5pm. The fair will feature many types of readings, psychic intuitive, mediumship, tarot cards, pendulum, angel cards) as well as Reiki healing sessions for both people and animals (animals must be leashed or crated). Appointments are available but walk-ins are also welcome. The readings are $40 and up while the Reiki sessions begin at $20. The church’s regular Sunday services occur weekly from 11am to 12:30pm and include music, inspirational talks by spiritualist or interfaith guest ministers, meditation, hands-on healing and spirit communications. On December 7, the church will hold two events, beginning with Rev. Tom Kearns on service and spirit communications at 11am followed by an astrology workshop at 1pm. The church’s Mediumship Development Class will be held 7-9pm on December 10. Rev. Avery Manchester will run a candlelight service on December 14 at 5pm while Rev. Mary Yankee offers another Service and Spirit Communications lecture on December 28 at 11am. The church’s mission is to offer a place and space where people of all religious and spiritual backgrounds may come together to worship God and to express and share in the divinity and sanctity of the human spirit. This is done through worship, song, prayer, healing, community service and fellowship, as well as an appreciation of the gifts of the Spirit in all people. For more information, visit AlbertsonChurch.org or email Info@AlbertsonChurch.org. Location: 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich.

Kindred Spirits

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

A Center for the Mind, Body, & Soul

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

Your Home is an Extension of Your Body and Spirit Shouldn’t it be a healthy, stress-free environment? We are proud to introduce our new Aromatherapy and Green Cleaning Services in Fairﬁeld County, CT Aromatherapy has been scientiﬁcally proven to help reduce stress and bring peace of mind. We use only “clean” products, including our signature products that use aromatherapy.

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Bringing the scents of nature to your home www.thecleanesttouch.com Now serving these areas of Fairﬁeld County: Fairﬁeld, Norwalk, Trumbull, Westport, Wilton

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.

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December 2014

newsbriefs New Milford Hosts Hands-On Train Display

he New Milford Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring the 27th Annual Hands on Train Display at the Railroad Station in New Milford from December 20 – 28 (closed Christmas Day). Operating each day from noon until 4pm, the free public display will feature four operating train layouts available for visitors to view and operate. The popular annual exhibit started 27 years ago at the New Milford Historical Society & Museum. Organized and run each year by a small group of New Milford residents who are train enthusiasts, the layouts feature a variety of gauge trains and are changed each year based upon a particular theme. Past themes have included “Jurassic Park,” industrial settings, logging scenes and more. Trains of all sizes and types run along tracks that climb and loop around miniature trees and building facades comprising the train communities. For more information, visit NewMilford-Chamber.com. Location: 11 Railroad St, New Milford.

Grand Opening for Norwalk’s Align Chiropractic

n Wednesday, December 3 from 4 - 6pm, Dr. Christopher Cerrato will host a grand opening for his new business Align Chiropractic. The event includes a presentation by Dr. Cerrato on the effectiveness of the precision chiropractic procedure called Upper Cervical Specific in treating such health conditions as headaches, neck pain, asthma, digestive issues, multiple Christopher Cerrato sclerosis, ADHD and others. In this technique, precise images of the cervical spine are made to identify mis-alignments in the first two bones of the neck. “When the first two bones in the neck misalign, they can cause a disruption in the messages going from the brain to the body,” Dr. Cerrato explains. “In order to correct this, we use Computer Infrared Thermography to detect if nervous system interference is present and therefore if an adjustment is necessary.” Norwalk Mayor Harry W. Rilling will be present at the grand opening to perform a ribbon cutting ceremony. Food and drinks will be served. Space is limited. For more information, please call 203-831-8800 or email Dr.Cerrato at Info@Align-CC.com. Location: 153 East Ave, Ste 26, Norwalk.

DID YOU REALIZE THAT

TOXINS Toxins drive neurological, metabolic (including weight gain), immune and cardiovascular illnesses – and any disease ending in “itis”. We have the knowledge and technology to help your body heal itself. For 25+ years, our patients have enjoyed remarkable success with naturopathic treatments which cleanse, detox, nourish, repair and balance. Call us to schedule an appointment:

Fairfield County Edition

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ARE OFTEN THE ROOT CAUSE OF

INFLAMMATION?

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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

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.

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

SOUL CENTEREDHEALING INTEGRATED HEALING SESSIONS FOR YOUR BODY, MIND AND SPIRIT

♥ Eliminate Pain, Clear Anxiety, Balance Hormones, Relieve Stress ♥ Create a life of deep meaning and purpose. ♥ Experience more love, health, & peace in all areas of your life.

DANIELLE JOFFE HAMPTON M.A., L.AC. Each session utilizes Danielle’s profound skills and 20+ years of practice in Intuitive Counseling, Energy   Medicine, Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine to address the root cause of your issue.   Formerly one of the leading healing practitioners at Canyon Ranch. Sessions are in-person or via phone.

soulcentered@mac.com

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Shift happens...are you ready? SOUL Healing CENTEREDHEALING Transformative INTEGRATED HEALING SESSIONS FOR YOUR BODY, MIND AND SPIRIT

Beth Prins Leas ♥ Eliminate Pain, Clear Anxiety, Balance Hormones, Relieve Stress

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.

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

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♥ Experience more love, health, & peace in all areas of your life.

Balance your body, find peace of mind, DANIELLE JOFFE HAMPTON M.A., L.AC. reconnect to spirit... Each session utilizes Danielle’s profound skills and 20+ years of practice in Intuitive Counseling, Energy   •Medicine, reduceAcupuncture stress & Traditional Chinese Medicine to address the root cause of your issue.   • induce relaxation Formerly one of the leading healing practitioners at Canyon Ranch. Sessions are in-person or via phone. • relieve chronic and acute pain soulcentered@mac.com 203-292-9869 soul-centered-healing.com • speed wound healing • boost immune function • improve memory and concentration • ease anxiety/depression • recover from injury, illness or trauma • raise your energetic frequency to stimulate health and healing private sessions, workshops, events, in-person or by phone Norwalk and Ridgefield locations

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November 2014

healthbriefs

Lead Lurks in Lipsticks and Skin Whiteners

ecent research has found several heavy metals in numerous lipsticks and cosmetics. These include mercury and lead in skin-whitening creams, and chromium, cadmium and lead in lipsticks. Scientists from the Loma Linda University School of Medicine and the University of Arizona’s College of Medicine tested 549 cosmetic skin-lightening products manufactured in 32 different countries. The products were purchased online and from stores in the U.S., China, Taiwan, Japan and Sri Lanka. Thirty-three of the products contained more than 1,000 parts per million (ppm) of lead, and 45 percent of them contained more than 10,000 ppm of lead. Of those purchased in the U.S., 3.3 percent had mercury levels greater than 1,000 ppm. University of California scientists tested 24 lipsticks used frequently by teenagers and purchased at local stores. They found 75 percent contained lead and nearly half exceeded the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) maximum acceptable concentration of lead for candy (0.1 ppm). In 2010, the FDA tested 400 lipsticks and found lead in every sample tested— with concentrations ranging from 0.9 to 3.06 ppm. Other studies have confirmed similar findings. They also found significant concentrations of chromium and cadmium among some of the samples. There are currently no concrete international or U.S. standards for safe levels of these heavy metals in cosmetics.

Algae-Based Cosmetics May Ward Off Inflammation and Cancer

lgae extracts added to natural cosmetics may help prevent cancer. A recent review of research from Taiwan’s Kaohsiung Medical University found marine algae extracts help protect skin cells by reducing oxidative stress, which has been linked to both inflammation and cancer. The review covered the major algae types of red algae, brown algae (such as kelp), green algae and blue-green algae (such as spirulina). A host of compounds in these extracts were found to provide protection against free-radical damage. In one study, phloroglucinol, a phenol derivative from brown algae, inhibited inflammation among human tissue sarcoma cells.

Change Your Mind & Change Your Life! Dynamic Therapy for Rapid and Powerful Change Fast, Easy, Natural & Successful ~ Relief in Minutes Thought Field Therapy • Hypnosis • NLP • Time Line Regression • Virtual Gastric Band Program

Hospice Care Adds Months for Cancer Patients

esearchers from Houston’s MD Anderson Cancer Center determined that hospice care significantly increases survival rates among patients with metastatic (stage IV) melanoma, a difficult-to-treat form of cancer that occurs when melanoma cells have spread through the lymph nodes to other parts of the body. The study’s authors followed 862 metastatic melanoma cancer patients. Of these, 523 patients received one to three days of hospice care, 114 patients received four or more days and 225 people received no hospice care through their survival period. Those that received four or more days had an average survival period, which typically dates from the original diagnosis, of 10.2 months, while those that received none averaged 6.1 months. In addition, the end-of-life hospital costs for those receiving the most hospice visits were nearly half of what was incurred by patients not receiving hospice attention.

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Fairfield County Edition

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Diane Bahr-Groth, CHy, TFTdx

eNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2014

globalbriefs

Feeding Hope

Recognizing Restaurants that Support the Homeless

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

Bye-Bye Birdie

230 Avian Species on the National Watch List Scientists from 23 organizations, including the federal government, universities and conservation groups, have spent years on the State of the Birds Study, looking at 230 species of birds from different habitats compiling its watch list. Peter Marra, a migratory bird specialist at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Zoo, in Washington, D.C., attributes the population drops of the birds in the most trouble to disappearing habitat or reduced range. Some coastal birds are doing better, and previously endangered wetland birds are recovering due to laws that are protecting them. Marra says, “These populations come back when we create the habitat. The report emphasizes that it’s better to focus on birds that aren’t yet in decline and keep them that way.” Ken Rosenberg, a bird biologist at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, in Ithaca, New York, and an author of the report, says that hunters, as well as conservationists, deserve credit for preserving ducks. He acknowledges, “We’ve put a tremendous amount of resources and money into wetland and waterfowl conservation because of the hunters that contribute financially.” But lots of songbirds are in trouble, and Florida, where bird habitat is disappearing fast, is a crucial stopover for migrating birds. It’s the kind of place that birds both common and endangered urgently need to survive. Source: National Public Radio

Food Recovery Certified is a new program that rewards restaurants that donate their extra food to those in need with a sticker on their front door. It’s a project of The Food Recovery Network, a national system of college students that takes cafeteria leftovers to homeless people. Founder Ben Simon started the group in 2011 at the University of Maryland, and the network has saved more than 320,000 pounds of food from the dump in its first three years. If a restaurant donates unsold food to the hungry at least once a month, it can apply for the certification. Then Food Recovery Certified verifies with local nonprofits that the donations actually occur before awarding its approval. Simon states, “Every food business should be donating its extra food.” For more information, visit FoodRecoveryCertified.org.

You Eat Organic Food, You Exercise, But Then You Go Home And Sleep On A Toxic Mattress?

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Fairfield County Edition

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Youth Activists

World Peace Caravan to Travel in the Middle East in 2015 The World Peace Caravan, founded by the nonprofit D. Gary Young Foundation, is a global peace movement scheduled to conduct a 12-day camel caravan from Petra, Jordan, to Jerusalem, Israel, from December 15 to 26, 2015. It will be spearheaded by a delegation of 12 youth ambassadors, ages 16 to 24, selected from a worldwide pool of candidates. Their goal is to foster an online youth community to provide young people everywhere a platform to share ideas, voice opinions and educate and learn from their peers. The youths intend to collaborate on solutions-centered projects to help eradicate poverty and hunger, ensure environmental sustainability and attain healthy lives for all. Inspired by a recurring vision, D. Gary Young, CEO of Young Living Essential Oils, chose the ancient Frankincense Trail upon which the Queen of Sheba once journeyed to bring peace offerings to King Solomon. This modern-day journey for peace invites people of all cultures, faiths and backgrounds to retrace the steps of that pioneering peace movement, culminating in a blockbuster World Peace Caravan Concert for Peace in Jerusalem. For more information, visit WorldPeaceCaravan.org.

All labor that uplifts humanity has dignity and importance and should be undertaken with painstaking excellence. ~Martin Luther King, Jr.

Are You Ready to Thrive? Transformational Guidance from Vibrational Success Coach

Roberta Russell, LMT 10 Years Coaching Experience

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December 2014

Toxin-Free

BEAUTY SALONS Pure Pampering Feels Natural and Safe by Sarah Tarver-Wahlquist

hen clients walk into New York City’s Swing Salon, they may be surprised by what they don’t smell—the range of chemicals usually wafting around hair salons. That’s because the owners have decided to use only natural and organic products. While many people may assume that all salon hair and body treatments are regulated and safe, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has no authority to require companies to test cosmetic products for safety, due to

loopholes in the Toxic Substances Control Act. So, people are being exposed to dangerous toxins through salon products like nail polish, hair color processors and hair straighteners. Be aware that while labels of overthe-counter body care products are required by law to list ingredients, with the exception of the chemical soup often hidden under the term “fragrance”, the loophole for salon products is large. Jamie Silberberger, with the Women’s Voices for the Earth’s National Healthy Nail & Beauty Salon Alliance, re-

ports, “Products sold for professional use in spas and salons are not required to be labeled with ingredients.” Fortunately, healthy alternatives are available, either by patronizing a green salon or using natural beauty treatments at home.

Hair Straighteners One salon treatment—Brazilian Blowout hair straightening—can continue to expose customers and salon workers to toxic fumes even months after application. It’s among the conventional straightening products that contain formaldehyde, a known human carcinogen. “Exposure to formaldehyde doesn’t end with the treatment—the fumes are reactivated every time heat is applied to the hair,” says Jennifer Arce, a San Diego, California, salon worker who became sick after applying a single Brazilian Blowout treatment. “So, when a client who’s had a Brazilian Blowout done elsewhere comes into the salon to get a haircut or color and has her hair blow-dried, flat-ironed, curled or processed under the hood dryer, the fumes that come out of her hair make me and several of my coworkers sick all over again.”

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 22

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Debra Gibson, ND

Solution: Avoid chemical hair-straightening treatments. Sign on to the Women’s Voice for the Earth letter campaign petitioning the FDA to remove Brazilian Blowout from U.S. shelves by visiting Tinyurl.com/ BanBrazilianBlowout.

Hair Dyes and Extensions About two-thirds of conventional hair dyes in the U.S. contain para-phenylenediamine (PPD), a chemical banned for use in such products in Germany, France and Sweden. Exposure to PPD can cause allergic reactions ranging from skin irritation to death by anaphylactic shock, which happened to a teenager in 2010. When Spain’s University of Santiago de Compostela researchers conducted a metastudy examining the risk of cancer among hairdressers and related workers, all reported that employees had a higher risk of cancer than the general population. Hair extensions also warrant attention. Many adhesives used on extensions may contain 1,4 dioxane, listed as a probable carcinogen by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and styrene, a neurotoxin and suspected endocrine disruptor. Solution: Look for a clean, green salon that uses natural hair color treatments free from synthetic chemicals, ammonia or PPD. Individuals can also order nontoxic organic color kits direct from EcoColors.net.

Nail Polish When getting a manicure or pedicure, beware of the toxic trio of dibutyl phthalate, formaldehyde and toluene. Used to help nail products hold color, they’re linked to reproductive and development problems, plus dizziness and eye and lung irritation, according to the Environmental Working Group. Facing pressure from consumer groups and salon workers, some polish companies are now producing so-called “nontoxic” nail polish, although their labels aren’t verifiable. California’s Department of Toxic Substances Control recently tested 25 nail polishes sold to salons, 12 of which claimed to be toluene-free, including seven said to be free of the toxic trio. The researchers found toluene in 10

of those, and one or more of the three ingredients in five out of the seven. Solution: Customers should bring their own safe nail polish and only patronize well-ventilated salons.

Find a Green Salon Many conventional body products like shampoos and massage oils contain a litany of ingredients that add to our chemical exposure. Ask questions to ensure all of a salon’s products are nontoxic or as low in toxicity as possible. For example, a large network of independently owned “concept salons” across America are connected with the Aveda Corporation (Aveda.com), a national leader in developing hair and body products that are free from the most dangerous ingredients. More than 90 percent of Aveda’s essential oils and 89 percent of its raw herbal ingredients are certified organic. Also look for members of the Green Spa Network, a nationwide coalition of spas that pledge to be energy efficient and sustainable in all of their practices (GreenSpaNetwork.org). If a green salon hasn’t yet arrived locally, bring nontoxic products for appointments and ask the stylist to use them. Visit the Skin Deep Database at ewg.org/skindeep to find the least-toxic products for at-home use. Sarah Tarver-Wahlquist is a freelance writer in Tucson, Arizona.

More Naturally Safe Sources Bloom Organics BloomOrganics.com Eve’s Organics EveOrganicsBeauty.com Max Green Alchemy MaxGreenAlchemy.com ToeShades ToeShades.com

PearTree Salon

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December 2014

endocrine disruptors. They can mimic certain hormones like estrogen and have the potential to signal breast cells to grow differently from how they normally would. In a study released in January 2012, parabens were found in nearly all breast samples from breast cancer patients, according to a research team led by Dr. Philippa Darbre from the University of Reading in the U.K. “I tell my patients to stay with those products that have ingredients that are readily identifiable; versus something that would appear in the Merck Index,” Singley says. “If the ingredients are also foods, they should be safe to use topically; that is assuming, of course, there are no allergy concerns.”

NATURAL COSMETIC CHEMISTRY

Sparkle with a Natural Beauty Regimen Your whole body will thank you by Angela Pascopella

utternut squash, sea salt, seabuckthorn and olive oil. These are some of the ingredients in holistic skincare, haircare and nail products that organic-seeking estheticians and salon experts in Fairfield County are now offering their clients. Seeking to enhance natural beauty is becoming more like receiving therapy for the body. “It definitely is therapy,” says esthetician Jennifer Ciamei, who owns Ciamei Wellness Center in Trumbull. “It’s a lifestyle change and it’s about making time for yourself to create perfection for you. And it’s using what’s on this earth, not creating chemicals. I feel like everybody is starting gradually to change, but it’s a very slow change. There are not a lot of people who are educated enough with skincare and haircare.”

Fairfield County Edition

KNOW THE FACTS

Pop culture includes magazine photos and billboards of models and actresses showing off flawless skin and hair, often selling harmful products that can include parabens, parafins and petroleum- and alcohol-based ingredients. Education is what more people need, according to Dr. Lisa Singley, owner of Natural Health and Wellness Center in Stratford. As a naturopathic physician and acupuncturist, she sees patients for pain management, issues with the endocrine system, hormonal imbalances and digestive disorders. Some of these problems can stem from products people use every day, including moisturizers, makeup and shaving foam. Parabens, which are used as preservatives in many cosmetics, have been shown in some studies to act as

natural awakenings

Ciamei, who is a certified esthetician, cosmetologist and massage caregiver, formulates her own cleansers, haircare and cancer-care products to fit her individual clients. Called natural cosmetic chemistry, all the products are less than two weeks old. She combines a spectrum of basic ingredients to cover 15 different skin types and 20 different hair types, from ages of about 15 to 80. Skin products also vary from season to season to adjust for the changes in temperature, humidity and sun effects. One of the newest cleansers she uses on some of her clients includes the pulp and skin from butternut squash. With anti-inflammatory properties, this squash is formulated for very sensitive skin and rosacea, and contains nutrients like folate acid, Ciamei says. “It feels good, it smells fresh and it lightens liver spots, age spots and acne scarring, but it’s not harsh like an acid,” she says. She adds that many products in drug stores include synthetic chemicals that are often used in industrial equipment to grease gears or stabilize pesticides. “And we can all agree that an ingredient that effectively scours a garage floor may not be the best choice for a facial cleanser,” Ciamei says.

HAIR, SKIN CARE WITH FLOWERS

For hair, Ciamei’s treatments include cucumbers, lavendula flowers

and cranberries that provide protein in the hair bulb/root. Jasmine doesn’t weigh down hair, and can keep it from falling out or breaking. A lemongrass plant enzyme shampoo is commonly used to treat oily hair as it medicinally gets rid of sebaceous cysts, she adds. For skin products, Ciamei also uses protein from cucumber and cranberry plants, which add tightness, collagen and elasticity. She uses red Caribbean salt to help alleviate skin with eczema or psoriasis. Mango butter works for healing irritations due to cuts, bruises and poison ivy. Peartree Organic Salon Owner Grisel Cruz opened her first salon in the early 1990s. Eight years later, she bought the Peartree salon in Darien. In 2010, she began implementing a holistic mindset and attitude of “doing no harm” to creatures or the earth. She became certified in yoga and, in 2012, the new organic salon was born, focusing on natural ingredients. “When clients come here we want them to experience a different way of approaching beauty,” says Cruz. “And we allow you to be your own personal trend setter, choosing hair styles and colors that suit you, rather than following the latest new thing.” Peartree offers a non-surgical facelift, which is a micro-current treatment that stimulates the production of collagen and skin rejuvenation. The natural and safe technology was developed in Japan, Cruz adds. At Salon Aponte in Monroe, Owner Nancy Aponte started using organic and natural products about 13 years ago, more than a decade after she bought the salon. She recalled the toxic fumes and chemicals she breathed in decades ago. “I thought, ‘But this is

products that are safe really make a difference to your health.”

Healthy, Natural Moisturizers

HAIR COLORING

Take plain yogurt, mix in ½ tsp of turmeric and apply to your face. Leave it on for about 20-30 minutes, until it dries, then rinse and wash. Or Mash fruit, such as apples, grapes, berries. Add ¼ cup of apple cider vinegar (aloe can be added for dry skin) and apply to face. Leave on for 10 minutes and rinse. Source: Dr. Lisa Singley Use a few drops of olive oil at night or in the morning to moisturize your face. Or Mix an egg with a few drops of milk to act as a natural facelift. Let it dry and then rinse. Source: Jennifer Ciamei what I do and what I love to do, so I have to find alternatives.’ ” Aponte searched the internet and went through trial-and-error runs with various products. Now she uses alternative shampoos and conditioners that do not include parabens, plastics, SLS (sodium laurel sulfate) or pesticides. The products are free of animal testing and animal by-products. Her clientele includes many recovering from or dealing with serious illness and they appreciate her concern for their wellbeing. “I want people to realize that every single thing people put on or in their body will have a result in their health,” Aponte says. “Top-notch quality beauty

At New Canaan’s Synergy Salon, Owner Michele Maestri-Murphy opened her business about nine years ago. She began going eco-friendly with little things, like using cornstarch on people’s necks after a haircut, instead of talc powder and serving organic teas and coffees in glass cups, instead of paper cups. For hair coloring, Maestri-Murphy found an herbal product, spun by a chemist, which was healthier than traditional hair color. “I then knew I could create the salon of my dreams,” she says. “People are realizing what goes on their bodies goes into their bodies and consequently the environment as well.” She now offers several different color lines and works with individual customers’ concerns, situations or allergies. Peartree and Salon Aponte both use the Organic Color Systems products for hair color. Made in the U.K., the coloring product is regulated by more stringent guidelines and policies, and includes no ammonia or harsh chemicals. Aponte adds that some of the certified organic ingredients include chamomile, grapefruit and wheat protein. It does not include the toxic color pigment called resorcinol, she adds. The new coloring products differs from products of the past by eliminating ammonia, which blasts open the outside cuticle layer of hair so the coloring can seep in and in the end creates damage, Aponte says.

NAILS THAT SHINE

Cleaning and polishing nails can also be natural. Cruz at Peartree offers mani-

SYNERGY SALON in balance with nature

Unless we make Christmas an

occasion to share our blessings, all the snow in Alaska won’t make it ‘white’. ~Bing Crosby

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 eNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2014

cures and pedicures in baths of Epsom salts with essential oils, instead of chemicals that some other salons might use. Coconut oil is also used to exfoliate feet or soften cuticles. For nails, Salon Aponte uses a toulene-, phthalate- and formaldehyde-free polish, called 3 free, and nail polish remover which is 100 percent biodegradable and soy-based. Naturopathic physician Dr. Marvin Schweitzer of the Wellness Institute in Norwalk has this to say about using any unnatural ingredient, “As far as I’m concerned, anything you put on your skin and on your hair should be something that is so healthy for you that you’d be comfortable ingesting,” Dr. Schweitzer says. “Because guess what? We do ingest these products through our skin and lungs and digestive tract. There are membranes everywhere that absorb these products, including cosmetics.” This holiday season, stick with the experts of today and enhance your natural beauty more healthfully. Angela Pascopella, a 25-year journalism veteran, resides in Fairfield County and is also managing editor for a national, trade publication for school administrators.

Gift Ideas for a Taste of Natural Beauty 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.

Ciamei Wellness Center: Complimentary cucumber and cranberry facial with purchase of the new fall and winter hair- and skin-care line. PearTree Salon in Darien: $16 organic jojoba oil that protects hair from the damaging effects of blow driers and flat irons. Customers can refill the bottle as needed at the salon. Only One Offer Per Person Restrictions May Apply New Patients Only Offer Expires 1/30/15

Salon Aponte in Monroe: Specials on Facebook and smaller stocking stuffers include gel-based candles. Synergy Salon in New Canaan: $65, one-hour long scalp massage with certified organic oils, topped off with a professional blowdry.

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natural awakenings

greenliving

Eco-Beauty

“Many products require only one or two ingredients and take minimal time to make,” says Cox. “Plus, they cost only pennies. Who wouldn’t choose that over a $30-an-ounce mysterious chemical soup?” Honey is a Cox favorite for several reasons, including its antimicrobial effects: a dab on a blemish or insect bite can zap it overnight. “Honey has high potassium content, making it almost impossible for bacteria to survive in,” she explains. It’s also a good source of B vitamins thiamine, niacin, riboflavin and pantothenic acid, plus minerals like iron, zinc and manganese. In this case, what’s absorbed through skin is literally nourishing our body’s entire system. Honey is also a powerful humec-

Homemade Shampoos, Lotions and Perfumes Make Great Gifts by Kathleen Barnes

any of us have grown disenchanted with expensive, commercial beauty products that include toxic and even cancer-causing ingredients. Fortunately, safe, natural and affordable alternatives—including homemade shampoos, conditioners, moisturizers, bath salts, body scrubs and butters—are stocked at many natural grocers and health food stores. We all want to avoid phthalates, cetyl alcohol, triclosan, sodium laureth sulfate, parabens and many other poisonous chemicals commonly found in lotions, creams, scrubs, oils, perfumes and makeup products that may not be listed on labels. “You want to know what’s in your product,” says Janice

Cox, of Medford, Oregon, the bestselling author of Natural Beauty at Home and Eco-Beauty. “If you’re making your own, you’re in control.” Cox remarks, “Ingredients are absorbed through the skin, our largest organ. It’s why some medicines like birth control, pain relief and nicotine patches are effectively applied externally; it’s also why toxic ingredients placed on our skin can be so harmful.” Her recommended solution is simple: The kitchen cabinet harbors solutions to the dry and dull skin that plagues many this time of year, shampoo residues that result in drab hair, and less-than-glowing skin due to a suboptimal holiday diet.

Beautiful Color Shouldn't Be Hazardous To Your Health The best thing about our products is what we leave out!

Simple Natural Beauty Ingredients Here are a few favorite ingredients for home treatments: n Honey is perfect for conditioning dry, damaged hair and rinses out easily. n Sour cream makes a great facial mask for softening and cleansing a dull complexion. n Green tea is packed with antioxidants and tones skin with no need to rinse off. n Oatmeal can be used instead of soap to cleanse all skin types. n Pineapple juice soothes tired feet and softens rough patches. n Baking soda works head to toe as a hair rinse, facial scrub and bath soak. n Olive oil in a nail soak keeps nails clean, flexible and strong.

No Ammonia • No Parabens No Scalp Staining • No Scalp Discomfort Best Eco Salon

838 Main Street • Monroe • Tollgate Plaza Tues & Fri 9-5 • Wed & Thur 9-8 • Sat 8-4

203-261-2838 SalonAponte.com

make-up

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December 2014

tant, helping to prevent loss of moisture from skin and hair. Cox recommends dropping a tablespoon or two in a warm bath to soothe rough skin without stickiness, a conditioning mixture of honey and olive oil to produce silky hair and an apple-honey toner to facilitate glowing skin. She also recommends an easy shampoo that contains nothing more than natural soap (like Dr. Bronner’s), water and a little vegetable oil for dry hair. “It doesn’t foam up like commercial shampoos, but it gets hair much cleaner,” she advises. Homemade beauty products are a natural outlet for anyone that loves to cook or craft. Make a small batch— experiment with an array of essential oils to create a preferred scent to suit individual tastes, and add or subtract the amounts according to skin and hair types. “Take it a step further and make pretty gift packages with glass bottles, jars or tins embellished with ribbons, personal artwork or anything else that taps into your creative juices,” says Cox. “Your friends and family will be especially happy to receive and use them.” Kathleen Barnes is the author of numerous natural health books and publisher at Take Charge Books. Connect at Kathleen@KathleenBarnes.com.

Basic Shampoo Yields 8 ounces If hair is oily, the optional vegetable oil may be omitted, but if hair is dry or damaged, include it. This is a great shampoo for all hair types because it’s gentle on hair and won’t strip away the natural oils. ½ cup water ½ cup mild natural liquid soap (like Dr. Bronner’s or any Castile soap) ½ tsp light vegetable oil (optional) Gently stir all the ingredients together, being careful not to beat the mixture or it will create foam. Pour the shampoo into a clean plastic container. Shampoo as normal, and then rinse well with cool water.

Eau de Cologne Yields 4 ounces Eau de Cologne was originally made by steeping flowers in a jar with alcohol and a small amount of oil. The scented oil was poured off and the alcohol was mixed with water. ¼ cup vodka or witch hazel ¼ cup water 2-3 drops of a favorite essential oil or a

mixture of oils (lavender, sandalwood, bergamot, rose, frangipani, ylang-ylang or jasmine) Mix all ingredients together. Pour into a clean spray bottle or splash bottle. Spray or splash the scented cologne onto skin or hair.

Solid Perfume Yields 1 ounce

Solid perfume and scents have always been popular because they are longlasting, easy to carry and discreet—just rub them on—no need to waste them by spraying the air. 1 Tbsp grated beeswax 1 Tbsp almond oil 8 drops essential oil or mixture of oils (peach, orange, sandalwood, vanilla or lavender) In a heat-resistant container or small saucepan, gently heat the beeswax and oil until it melts. Stir in the scented oil, pour into a clean, small container and allow the mixture to cool completely. Rub a finger across the solid perfume and apply the scent to pulse points or anywhere else.

Muscle-Soothing Bath Salts Yields 24 ounces

AVEDA Hair Coloring! 97% Naturally Derived from plants & oils Master Hair Colorist..! ..Corrective Hair Coloring!

ROBERT JAMES!

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 28

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This is the perfect bath to relax and refresh the whole body. Add a few drops of essential oils to the mixture for scent. 1 cup kosher or sea salt 1 cup baking soda 1 cup Epsom salt Mix together all ingredients and pour into a clean, dry container. Pour one cup of the mixture into a warm tub slowly, allowing the salts to dissolve completely. Soak for at least 20 minutes, but no more than 40 minutes. Recipes courtesy of Janice Cox, author of Natural Beauty at Home, Natural Beauty for All Seasons, Natural Beauty from the Garden and Eco Beauty.

beautyandspaprofiles Salon 221

221 Putnam Ave, Cos Cob Robert James, Master Hair Colorist 914-552-8031 • 203-661-8838 Business/Practice summary and/ or services offered: I have been an Aveda hair colorist for 20 years and hair stylist for 30 years. I’ve owned a hair salon for 20 years.

Robert James

What drew you to this work as a profession? I love fashion and the freedom to create. Haircutting has always been sculpturing to me and hair coloring is the finishing touch to every haircut.

Areas of specialty, training, and/ or special certifications: Working with Clairol, Matrix and Aveda as an educator, I train young hairdressers in the art of hair coloring. I am currently a master hair colorist specializing in corrective hair coloring. What is different about your services and/or the products that you offer? Aveda hair color is the best on the market today. Aveda’s permanent hair color is 97 percent naturally derived with a signature blend of plants and oils including sunflower, castor and jojoba oils infusing the hair with amazing shine for essentially damage-free results. Our fade-resistant color is created with environmental and social conscience so you feel good about using plant power instead of petrochemicals. Their semi-permanent color is 99 percent derived from plants and oils made from plants and non-petroleum minerals. What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work? My clients get a full consultation and hair analysis. We have to find out the nature of the hair. Was it colored before? Is it porous or not? If correction is needed, it might take one or two visits to get the color just right as well as the hair in great condition. I specialize in corrective hair coloring from single process to double process, highlighting and lo-lighting. Color changes, color removal, and everything in between. If you are unhappy with your hair color, I can help you.

Peartree Organic Salon 21 Tokeneke Rd, Darien 203-655-7444 PearTreeSalon.com

PearTree Salon

Summary and/or services offered: The salon offers organic services only, including hair coloring, highlights, hair treatments, and skin and nail care. We use products such as organic coconut oil, Epsom salts, essential oils, vitamin C, the Organic Color System, and organic jojoba hair oil. What drew you to this work as a profession? We are yoga practitioners and wanted our lifestyle to be reflected in our professional life. At Peartree Organic Salon, we decided to go completely organic. We are one of the few salons that has been trained and certified by Organic Color Systems. We are master colorists and highly regarded professionals in our industry. What is different about your services and/or the products that you offer? Our goal is to always look for healthy, natural and better alternatives to provide beauty services. Our philosophy is beauty without health risk. Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: In addition to hair-related services, the salon offers Miracle Wave, a non-surgical facelift. It is a technology that uses natural micro currents to stimulate collagen production and skin rejuvenation. We have also developed a hair cutting technique to get rid of split ends. Currently we are offering a refill station for Organic Jojoba hair oil to be used on wet or dry hair. Clients buy the first bottle and come back to refill as needed to help save money and the environment. What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work? We provide services and good products with integrity; we are constantly finding ways to get better for our clients and the environment.

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December 2014

beautyandspaprofiles Salon Aponte

Saltana Cave

Nancy Aponte, Principal 838 Main St, Monroe 203-261-2838 SalonAponte@att.net

Summary and/or services offered: Providing healthy hair care alternatives in a relaxed and upbeat atmosphere. We offer hair cutting and styling; creative hair coloring; eyebrow tinting; permanent waving; men’s services, children’s haircuts; Reiki; body sugaring/hair removal; deep conditioning treatments; and makeup application. What drew you to this work as a profession? I always enjoyed creating shapes with hair even as a child. I enjoy interacting with the public and making them feel happy and confident and working with a creative group and sharing artistic ideas. What is different about your services and/or the products that you offer? • Safer alternatives to traditional beauty treatments • Ammonia-free coloring without harmful color pigments • Natural- and organic-based shampoos, conditioners and styling products • Making your visit to the salon a much cleaner experience How has your work/business evolved and/or what new products will you be offering in 2015? Twenty-five years ago, I took over the existing business and have transformed it to a greener, cleaner experience without compromising the professional result. Being named conservationist of the month in Monroe has been an honor. Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: Specializing in all forms of hair color from grey coverage to multi dimensional applications. Trained as a Reiki practitioner. Advanced hair cutting training. All-natural hair removal/ body sugaring. What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work? Salon Aponte will continue to search for cleaner safer alternatives in all forms of beauty care. Partnering with Americanmade, like-minded grassroots companies to support our business continues to be an honor.

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Anna Husted, Principal 590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-969-4327 Anna@SaltanaCave.com SaltanaCave.com Facebook.com/SaltanaCave Business/Practice summary and/or services offered: As soon as you enter Saltana Cave, you are surrounded by tons of Himalayan salt rocks. This amazingly beautiful and glowing space has been designed for you to feel an immediate sense of relief both on an emotional and a physical level. In the cave, we offer salt cave sessions for therapy and relaxation, reflexology, Himalayan salt products, classes and workshops, private parties, birthday events and musical events. What drew you to this work as a profession? I grew up around natural salt mines in Poland. After a trip to a healing cave in Poland two summers ago, I noticed my daughter’s asthma improved after several visits. What is different about your services and/or the products that you offer? Salt therapy (also known as halotherapy) is a very new concept to the U.S. However, people are open and curious, and once they try it, they love it and come back! How has your work/business evolved and/or what new products will you be offering in 2015? We have been offering sound healing concerts including Tibetan and crystal bowls music in the cave, as well as many classes and workshops covering various topics. What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work? Saltana Cave is a wonderful place for anyone of all ages to come, experience and receive relief on some level. Research suggests that one 45-minute session in the cave equates to three days spent at the shore, as far as the negative ions and minerals go. There is a free session giveaway every Friday – like us on Facebook!

Synergy Salon LLC 53 East Ave, New Canaan 203-966-5655 Synergy.Salon@hotmail.com SynergySalonNC.com

Are You Looking For A Doctor Who Will Address More Than Just Your Symptoms? Summary and/or services offered Synergy Salon is an organic spa for your hair. We focus on organic hair services to restore, beautify and enhance your hair in the most natural way possible from cuts to color and extensions to treatments. What drew you to this work as a profession? Having a higher regard for human health and respect for Mother Earth, while continuing to enjoy connecting with people and helping them to look and feel their best on many levels. Areas of specialty, training, and/or special certifications: Offering 26 years experience in the haircare industry and always expanding our knowledge with educational classes. Master color creator of herbal-based hair color, certified in A List Celebrity Hair Extensions, Deva Curly Haircuts, and Formaldehyde Free Smoothing Treatments. What is different about your services and/or the products that you offer? We work hard to find and offer only the highest quality certified organic, organic and natural haircare products. We even blend fresh produce to create hair treatments! How has your work/business evolved and/or what new products will you be offering in 2015? We’ve maintained our integrity and added several new color lines over the years. This enables us to better customize a certain look or address a concern or allergy. We added online booking for your convenience. Stay posted for what’s new in 2015! What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work? Synergy Salon was created as a organic salon. It was not a salon that converted to take advantage of a trend. Also please know friends are made here and your attention is our priority!

Without change, something sleeps inside us, and seldom awakens. The sleeper must awaken. ~Frank Herbert

• Pediatrics • ADD/ADHD • Diabetes • Food Sensitivities • Eczema

• Asthma • Allergies • Insomnia • Abnormal Paps • Thyroid Disorders

• Women’s Health • Fertility • Hormonal Imbalance • Anxiety and Depression • Weight Loss

Treatments include herbal medicine, functional medicine, biotherapeutic drainage, homeopathy, low-level laser therapy, and detoxiﬁcation programs.

Shalva Clinic, LLC

Dr. Ellen Lewis Naturopathic Physician

The Center for Natural Medicine 260 Riverside Avenue Westport, CT 06880 p 203.916.4600 f 203.916.4601 www.ShalvaClinic.org Info@ShalvaClinic.org

Struggling to Find Happiness in Your Marriage? If you are feeling hopeless, there are things you can do right now to restore love and connection. This is not couples counseling. You’ll learn immediate solutions to the biggest challenges in your relationship.

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Jeff Forte CSIC CME and author of The 90-Minute Marriage Miracle 2389 Main St • Glastonbury, CT Jeff@PeakResultsCoaching.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2014

The Greenest Tree Go Natural for Christmas

he star of many families’ seasonal décor – the annual Christmas tree – need not become an environmental burden if selected with care. While some individuals have strong opinions about the virtues of a natural tree versus an artificial one, each approach has its pros and cons. In general, live Christmas trees seem preferable as a renewable resource that does not contain plastic or potentially toxic components. The National Christmas Tree Association points out that at least 85 percent of the plastic trees sold in the United States are imported from China and may contain toxic chemicals. On the other hand, evergreen trees can be grown in all 50 states and may be re-

Fairfield County Edition

placed as quickly as they are cut. When considering purchasing a real tree, however, there are some other environmental factors to consider. How far did the tree travel? The distance traveled from its source impacts the carbon footprint because of the fuel expended to transport it. Most vendors can tell you the state of origin, but what about pesticides that were used during the growing? Conventional Christmas tree farms are reputed to use abundant pesticides to keep their products looking picture-perfect. Ask if the seller is the grower and, if not, find out who knows the answer. Typically, a temporary sidewalk or street corner seller may not know; a better bet can be a u-pick-it tree farm (see below for local Christmas tree growers). Put a fresh-cut tree in water within a few hours after trimming the base a flat one-half to one inch; some people add an aspirin to the water to enhance absorption.

natural awakenings

According to the 2009 National Geographic Green Guide, Americans annually discard 30 million cut trees after the holidays, with the wood wasted in landfills. Alternatively, a program in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, collects them to combat coastal erosion. Locate tree growers by state and learn how to dispose of trees responsibly at PickYourOwnChristmasTree. org. GreenPromise.com publishes a list of organic Christmas tree farmers at Tinyurl.com/65oqh9. The decision to buy a living tree to be replanted requires more planning than choosing a fresh-cut tree. The size and type of tree that will fit the indoor space must be considered, but attention needs to be paid to where the tree will be planted once it goes outdoors. Make sure there is a suitable place to plant the living tree prior to purchasing it, to make sure there will be room for the tree to grow. When choosing a living tree, be sure to keep it properly hydrated while inside and relocate it in the yard after the celebrations conclude. Find detailed steps for care and planting from WikiHow.com at Tinyurl. com/6dyauj and Tinyurl.com/3rj582n.

Spruce. The pre-cut varieties available are Fraser Fir, Caanan Fir and Balsam Fir. WARRUPS FARM 11 John Read Rd, Redding 203-938-9403 Info@WarrupsFarm.com Hours: 10am-5pm daily

Create Memories Cut Your Own Christmas Tree A Guide to Fairfield County Christmas Tree Farms by Leslie McLean JONES FAMILY FARMS 606 Walnut Tree Hill Rd, Shelton 203-929-8425 JonesFamilyFarms.com Hours: 9am-5:30pm daily for the Christmas tree season Jones Family Farms has been harvesting Christmas trees for more than 60 years. Visitors are invited to hike among the 200 acres of trees to harvest their own or to visit the farm’s Homestead Barnyard filled with fresh-cut trees. The Barnyard shop offer wreaths, garland, bows, tree stands and pinecones, plus a Jones Winery Tasting Room, Holiday Gatherings Gift Shop and Harvest Kitchen Christmas Canteen. Visitors planning to cut their own tree are encouraged to arrive no later than 4pm. Prices will vary based on size and type of tree. Visit the website for a Tree Harvest tutorial. THE MAPLE ROW FARM 229 Stepney Rd, Easton 203-261-9557 Hours: 9am4:30pm daily during the holiday season Maple Row Farm has been in Easton since 1769 and growing Christmas trees

for the past 64 years. The farm has been using sustainable farming methods since the beginning. Cut-your-own trees are $67 each on weekends and $61 on weekdays. Precut trees are individually priced from $67 on weekends and discounted by $6 on weekdays. Wreaths, roping, stands and other holiday accessories are also available. Hayrides, refreshments and tailgating are allowed on the weekends. H. SMITH RICHARDSON TREE FARM 17 Sasco Creek Rd, Westport 203-259-6305 203-623-0646 (farm cellphone) Hours: Through December 23, TuesdayFriday, Noon-4pm; Saturdays and Sundays, 10am-4pm; Closed Mondays This 12-acre plantation is part of a 75acre Connecticut Audubon Sanctuary where visitors may find several species of winter birds. A portion of the tree sales goes to Audubon’s conservation and education programs. Saws and baling are available. They also offer wreaths, roping, swags, tree stands and firewood. Prices start at $60 but vary based on the size of the tree. Trees are available for up to 25 feet. Cut-your-own varieties include Douglas Fir, White Spruce and Blue

Located in the center of Redding, Warrup’s Farm has been in the Hill family for generations while the current enterprise has been serving the community since 1977. Each year, the farmers tap their own trees and make maple syrup, grow fall vegetables, celebrate the pumpkin season, host school groups, and sell their own Christmas trees. Visitors can pick a white or blue spruce tree – cut your own or have them cut it for you. PAPROSKI’S CASTLE HILL FARM 5 Hattertown Rd, Newtown 203-426-5487 CastleHillFarm.net Hours: From November 28, Monday-Friday, 2-5pm; Saturdays and Sundays, 9am-5pm

Paproski’s tree farm is family operated and opens the weekend after Thanksgiving for those looking to cut or “tag” their tree while the whole family is home for the holiday. Tags and saws are provided and assistance is provided for wrapping and tying the tree to your car. Complimentary hot apple cider and cookies are also provided. The 5-acre tree farm includes Norway Spruce, Douglas Fir, Blue Spruce and White Spruce trees and a 62-acre view. Paproski’s also offers pre-cut White Pine, Douglas Fir and Fraser Fir trees. Find wreaths, sprays, cemetery blankets and boxes made on the premises by the Paproskis. Leslie McLean is a contributing writer and District Sales Manager for Natural Awakenings Fairfield County. Connect with her at 203-470-4435 or LeslieMcLean@optonline.net.

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December 2014

Sacred Activism Love in Action Can Change the World by Judith Fertig

Fe, New Mexico, that’s also reflected in his book, The Hope: A Guide to Sacred Activism. Born in India, educated at England’s Oxford University and in the religious traditions of Hinduism, Buddhism and Christianity, he now resides in Melbourne, Arkansas, where he’s founder and director of the Institute for Sacred Activism. The goal of his international travel is to bring concerned people together to proactively face global crises. Says Harvey, “Sacred activism is a fusion of two of the most powerful fires of the human psyche—the mystic’s passion for God and the activist’s passion for justice.”

Hallmarks of Spiritual Intent

“Sacred activism is the fusion of the mystic’s passion for God with the activist’s passion for justice, creating the burning sacred heart that longs to help, preserve and nurture every living thing.” ~ Andrew Harvey

he butterfly, a universal symbol of transformation, reminds us that becoming our best selves is an ongoing process. Yet these delicate, fluttering creatures are suffering a decline, especially the vivid orange and black monarch butterflies that depend on milkweed flowers for sustenance during their migration to and from Mexico and Canada. “When I heard about the monarch butterfly crisis, I also noticed that I had milkweed vines all along my back fence,” says Karen Adler, a Kansas City, Missouri, gardener. “In years past, I would have pulled them out because 34

Fairfield County Edition

they can strangle other plants. But I talked it over with my neighbor and we agreed to let them grow. This year, we had more monarchs than ever.” These two women might not realize it, but they had engaged in spiritual activism. They became aware of a problem, approached it with compassion, learned about the issue, realized life’s interdependence and committed themselves to positive action for a result that is good for all. It’s a process that Andrew Harvey first described in a 2005 talk he gave at the Santuario de Guadalupe, in Santa

natural awakenings

The Awakening – Progressing from concerned citizen to spiritual activist is a gradual process. It may begin with an issue to which one feels called. “Our life in the world is a continual call and response,” observes Kabir Helminski, of Santa Cruz, California. He authors and translates books on the Muslim Sufi tradition, which tends to have an open relationship with other religions, and is a core faculty member of the Spiritual Paths Institute, which encourages seekers to find the sacred traditions that speak to them. “Sometimes events are a waking dream calling for interpretation, and sometimes the heart is directly addressed from within,” says Helminski. Compassion – Once an event moves us, prayer can be a pathway that opens our hearts to compassion, according to Jagadish Dass, of Granada Hills, California. The healer and teacher wrote The Prayer Project: The 3-Minute, 3 Times a Day Solution for World Change, which encourages involvement with something bigger than ourselves. Dass maintains that praying for three minutes, three times a day, will help us transmute into expressing a quiet power. “As we take responsibility for our lives, a transformation occurs within,” he says. We begin to inspire others to also take up the cause of working for change and bringing more peace, joy and love to the world. Likewise, Harvey urges each of us to make a real commitment to daily spiritual practice on the road to

“When you put spirit and activism together, you realize that all actions are connected to spirit. It makes you think about your duty in every instance—from how you treat people throughout your day to how you treat the environment. It becomes a satisfying way of living.” ~ Carla Goldstein spiritual activism. He suggests, “Start with a short prayer that aligns you with the pure deep love that is longing to use you as its instrument in the world.” Options include prayers from many of the world’s spiritual traditions shared in Dass’ book; a free download is provided at StewardshipOfTheSoul.com. Interconnectedness – Just as everything in the universe is connected by the simple act of being, like-minded people can connect to do good in the world. Sacred activists pursuing their own spiritual paths need to work with others, according to Harvey. “They form empowering and encouraging networks of grace—beings of like heart, brought together by passion, skill and serendipity to pool energies, triumphs, griefs, hopes and resources of all kinds. When people of like mind and heart gather together, sometimes miraculously powerful synergy can result.” Harvey has found that groups of six to 12 people become the most efficient and productive, whether joined together through a profession (such as physicians on medical missions), a passion for animal rights or the environment, or a strong sense of social justice. Knowledge – Knowledge, both inward- and outward-seeking, is another key to doing good for all. Carla Goldstein, JD, chief external affairs officer at the Omega Institute for Holistic Studies, in Rhinebeck, New York, and cofounder of its Women’s Leadership

Center, used her interest in women’s empowerment issues as a springboard to spiritual activism. “For the first 20 years of my professional life, I focused on public policy and politics,” she says. “But something was missing in the rhetoric of taking care of each other.” Practicing yoga and meditation and receiving support during a personal health crisis prompted what she terms “an awakening understanding of a gap between personal change and systems change.” Goldstein came to question her own “rugged individualism” versus the interconnectedness she felt when people took care of her. “Can we actually move towards integrating these two ideals?” she asked herself. Knowledge about issues is readily available from experts and organizations that experts recommend; she observes, “The big question is: What is needed for us to be of help?” Sometimes listening and understanding can be powerful. Under the auspices of the Omega Women’s Leadership Center, Goldstein invited women on both sides of the reproductive rights issue to meet in 2005. They had been part of the Public Conversations Project in the Boston suburb of Watertown, Massachusetts, begun after medical staff members were killed and wounded at an area women’s health clinic providing abortions in 1994. “Women from the divided community initially came together to tell their

stories,” Goldstein relates. “Over time, they developed a deep love for each other. Nobody changed their positions, but they did change how they interacted with one another.” They experienced a shift from emotional and verbal turbulence to, if not agreement, feelings of peace and understanding. Since then, the project has grown to facilitate such conversations in 38 states and 15 countries (PublicConversations.org). Positive Action – While many thorny issues take long-term, dedicated efforts to be resolved, others only need smaller individual or collaborative actions for positive outcomes. For Mark Nepo, a New York City poet, philosopher and author of the New York Times bestseller, The Book of Awakening, kindness is the force behind positive action, no matter how modest at first. “Kindness reveals kinship. It gives us connection to everything greater than us and everything else that is kind in the universe,” he says. “I think it’s powerfully effective, yet it’s such a small thing.” Nepo is active in Bread for the Journey, an international nonprofit that encourages community grassroots philanthropic projects that generate microgrants. One involved a small town in northern New Mexico that sought to improve the lives of local teenagers when the town’s elders wanted to open a youth center as a positive alternative to the drug scene. Just before the center was scheduled to open, the project ran out of money for required floodlights, so Bread for the Journey funded them and the center opened. “Within a few years, the whole culture shifted,” reports Nepo. This small contribution made a big difference to the whole community. Once awakened and nurtured, spiritual activism can become an omnipresent part of our lives. Says Goldstein, “When you put spirit and activism together, you realize that all actions are connected to spirit. It makes you think about your duty in every instance—from how you treat people throughout your day to how you treat the environment. It becomes a satisfying way of living.” Judith Fertig is a freelance writer from Overland Park, KS.

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December 2014

TRUE FREEDOM, TRUE SELF: Engage the Spirit’s Restlessness

by Kim Morey Feeney

homas Merton, a Trappist monk and spiritual writer of the mid-20th century, defined a human existence that merely breathes, eats, sleeps and works without awareness, purpose and independent thought as not really a human being, but rather a life simply absent of physical death. For a human being to be truly and fully human, one must

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carry on the activities that Merton defines as “proper to one’s own specifically human kind of life.” Therefore, he continues, for a human being to live authentically, he or she must think intelligently, directing one’s actions by free decisions made in the light of one’s independent thought; those decisions must cultivate one’s spiritual and intellectual growth, making one more aware of the capacity of his or her free will. These decisions must also expand one’s ability to love and to do good. Thus, in a few words, for a human being to be truly oneself, the person must be wholly alive, being all life in the body, senses, mind and will, explains Merton in No Man is an Island (Merton, 2002). In a time of marked scientific and technological growth, it has become a societal norm to focus time and energy on attempting to make something of oneself; and so to just be oneself has become a challenge. Because of the ease with which one can acquire information, the human mind is often satisfied with verifiable fact, believing it keeps life simple. However, it also makes for a simple mind. Many human beings have become trapped in their own minds, seeing the world in positives and negatives, good and bad, myself versus the other. The dualist perspective derives itself from an unconscious denial of the self as a divine creation; an inability to see oneself as a part of an inconceivable, interconnected being, and that one’s consciousness exists as consciousness itself, independent of one’s incarnate body. This dualism is what creates the individual mask, or false self, a self that we each create for ourselves to move through the world “safely.” When one allows values, priorities, material possessions, spirituality and decisions to simply reflect that of collective society, one buries the true self, the higher self, beneath the false self. In allowing the false self to dictate thought and action, and therefore overshadow the true self, human beings create an awareness of themselves that tells them they can fulfill all of their own needs at any time. As technology seemingly allows communication to become simpler, we really become more disconnected. This is the essence of the power of collective thought. It is simple to promote a message, especially if it appears empowering. But empowerment really comes from within, from the true self that is divinely created and whole. Power equates to freedom, or so we are led to believe. The cheapest form of freedom, the power of

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choice, creates the illusion that one can fulfill oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own needs at any time, and therefore that one is â&#x20AC;&#x153;powerfulâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;in controlâ&#x20AC;? of his or her own life, his or her own fate. This feeds the illusion that we are autonomous beings, self-sufficient and free. But the stirring within oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heart is telling a different story. It is freedom that really leads to empowerment. There is a global awakening underway, marked by an increasing awareness in both individuals and communities, that true freedom comes from something profoundly deeper than the ability to choose from a list of consumer options. It is a stirring deep within, as the old standards by which one lived no longer apply to the shifting needs and concerns of the awakening soul. Out of this stirring arises a yearning for communion, for spiritual union with the Divine within ourselves and others. So the presence of this awakening is revealed in a greater inclination toward deeper freedom and a longing for connectedness. This stirring is what gives hope to the awakening soul as well as fuels its growth. The soulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s preparation for this growth is often accompanied by some discomfort to the ego. Perhaps the challenge of this discomfort is that living a path that honors the soulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s integrity and engaging authentic relationship creates vulnerability, and subsequently to the egoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fear of powerlessness. This powerlessness is illusion. Human beings tend to misjudge powerlessness as weakness and frailty; rather, it is facing that sense of powerlessness that indeed makes us powerful, as divine creations and co-creators with God/the Divine. Facing our vulnerabilities, which may be as simple as asking others for help and support, and challenging the ego, is what paves the path to wholeness and integration with the Divine within oneself and within the greater human community. A human beingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s true power lies hidden in the restlessness of living a life that isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t true to oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s deepest self. Because it is in this discomfort and sense of powerlessness that we reach out to the Divine and seek connection with others. It is in calling out for God and reaching for our fellow human beings that we shift into that place of truth

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December 2014

within each of us, the place inside that longs for connectedness; that longing is real and it is holy, and it is so by the very nature of who and what we are as human beings.

“Rescue me from the mire, and do not let me sink. Rescue me from those who hate me and from the watery depths. Do not let the flood waters overwhelm me, nor the deep swallow me, nor the pit close its mouth over me.”~ Psalm 69 This is not to say that the false self is bad or negative; rather, the false self is in itself false because it lacks fullness of being. As illusory as the false self is, the false self that is individually fabricated to be pleasing to others does so for the purpose of seeking human connection. One projects a self that is lacking fullness of being, but at its core, the false self exists as a distorted attempt at seeking acceptance and love and to be in relationship. We see a reflection of the true self in our outward actions. It is not the true self, but a reflection. The true self seeks connectedness; the false self, in its own erroneous way, tries to make that connection happen. Paul Lehmann in The Decalogue and a Human Future asserts, “Responsibility is the nexus of freedom and power in the experience of being and doing what is human in the world.” Our responsibility is to use our knowledge to avoid

causing suffering and to find the true purpose of our own life. So long as we live and breathe, the knowledge of our very humanness tells us that life has meaning and we are responsible for its never-ending search. The process of living and growing, of accepting more responsibility, tells us that life must have meaning, that we must discover it, live according to it and live for it. In growing, there is a gradual, increasing awareness of what we live for. Merton, as a Catholic priest and Trappist monk in the 1950s and 1960s, embraced the concept of zen, because its very existence points to direct, unadulterated experience, free from distraction. He encouraged its use of silence, contemplation and solitude to sustain one’s mindfulness of the one interconnected world. The restlessness of the spirit tells us openly and honestly that here and now is the time for an integration of mind, body and spirit; to live in such a way that our outward actions and decisions reflect our desire for interconnectedness and communion. Facing the restlessness will bring forth a peace that is both holy and profound. Kim Morey Feeney is the founder and owner of Lantern House, a spiritual learning and healing center and gift shop in Wilton. She studied at the Union Theological Seminary of Columbia University, graduating with an M.A. in systematic theology. She is an intuitive consultant and spiritual director, and serves as a meditation facilitator at Lantern House and throughout Fairfield County. For more information, visit LanternHouseLiving.com.

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spiritualcenterprofiles Do Ngak Kunphen Ling (DNKL) Tibetan Buddhist Center for Universal Peace 30 Putnam Park Rd, Redding • 203-664-1574 Info@DnklDharma.org • DnklDharma.org Facebook.com/DNKL.Buddhist.Center

Summary and/or services offered: DNKL is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. In keeping with Buddhist tradition, all Dharma classes at DNKL are free. However, it takes real money to keep the center open. Your tax-deductible contributions to support DNKL are always welcome. Philosophy and/or mission: Under the guidance of Gyumed Khensur Rinpoche Lobsang Jampa, DNKL Tibetan Buddhist Center for Universal Peace draws on the spiritual tradition of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the humanitarian visions of Maurice Pate, who was UNICEF’S first executive director. Among other objectives, the center conducts classes on Buddhist philosophy and meditation, offers systematic and graduated levels of training in Buddhist moral discipline, meditative concentration and transformative wisdom, and hosts public talks, spiritual festivals and other community events. Special activities/projects/classes offered: Every Sunday there is an open meditation class from 9:3010:30am at the Temple. There is also a Tibetan-language meditation class from 11am-12:30pm online, which is a global class (OnlineBuddhismClass.org/About-Us). Ongoing Sutra, Tantra, Tibetan-language and meditation classes. 3rd Annual Paint Out; Wet Paint Exhibition & Silent Auction. What is different about your congregation and the services that you offer? The heart of Buddhist meditation is nonsectarian in nature. The classes are open to people of all religious traditions and to those with no particular religious affiliation. DNKL wants to help create enlightened world citizens who work to end the suffering of all beings. What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about your organization? The Maurice Pate Institute for Human Survival donated the Pate’s 100 acre property to the Mahayana Sutra and Tantra Center of CT in 1997 as an organization committed to world peace.

Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism

293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich 203-637-4615 Info@AlbertsonChurch.org • AlbertsonChurch.org Facebook.com/AlbertsonMemorialChurchofSpiritualism Summary and/or services offered: Our Sunday services are from 11am to 12:30pm and include music, inspirational talks by spiritualist or interfaith guest ministers, meditation, hands-on healing and spirit communications. Special activities/projects/ classes offered: We offer a number of classes, workshops and a monthly Spiritual, Psychic and Healing Fair. Philosophy and/or mission? Spiritualism is the science, philosophy and religion of continuity of life. Through the practice of mediumship, it demonstrates that our soul never dies and that as a result, communication with those who have passed on is clearly demonstrated. What is different about your congregation and the services that you offer? Spiritualism has no scripture or dogma. Everyone is invited to worship with us regardless of beliefs or religious affiliations. We emphasize individual responsibility and base our foundation on the Golden Rule of “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about your organization? Albertson Church was founded in 1936 and is a member in good standing of the National Spiritualist Association of Churches (NSAC) and the Connecticut State Spiritualist Association.

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December 2014

spiritualcenterprofiles Unity Center of Norwalk

3 Main St, 2nd Fl (above Ford Dealership), Norwalk 203-855-7922 Office@UnityCenterPs.org • UnityCenterPs.org Facebook.com/UnityCenterforPracticalSpirituality Twitter.com/UnityNorwalkCT

Lantern House: Center for Seraphic Living

154 Danbury Rd, Wilton • 203-529-1219 Kim@LanternHouseLiving.com • SeraphimHouseLlc@gmail.com LanternHouseLiving.com • Facebook.com/LanternHouseCT Twitter.com/LanternHouse154

Summary and/or services offered: A thriving community which demonstrates the practical value of spiritual principle by living with the confidence that limitless possibility in all things exists and is available to everyone. Philosophy and/or mission? Our mission is to continually discover, demonstrate and educate that our source of good is God within. Special activities/projects/classes offered: Weekly celebration service; new thought spiritual education classes; monthly open mic night with new featured entertainers; stand-up comedy class; community outreach; Reiki healing circle; knitting group, choir; guest speakers; workshops; summer retreat; movie night and more. What is different about your congregation and the services that you offer? We believe God is all good and active in everything, everywhere and we are co-creators with God, creating reality through thoughts held in mind. We offer activities for personal growth, empowerment and creative expression. How has your organization evolved and/or what new will you be offering in 2015? We have evolved through conscious communication within Unity Center and a growing awareness of our need to be a light within the greater community. What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about your organization? The spirit, mind and body connection is a key component to our awakening which we incorporate into all that we think and therefore all that we do here at Unity Center.

Silence is a true friend who never betrays. ~Confucius

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

Lantern House

Summary and/or services offered: Lantern House focuses on offering spiritual guidance, psychic readings, healing, learning and meditation opportunities to anyone seeking to engage life more fully. The gift shop offers an eclectic collection of spiritual gifts, supplies and religious artifacts from various spiritual practices and faith traditions.

Philosophy and/or mission? Lantern House centers its work on encouraging spiritual wakefulness and authentic living. There are a number of opportunities for learning and guidance to all who are seeking something “more” – even if they aren’t sure what that means for them just yet. Special activities/projects/classes offered: Weekly and monthly guided meditations; psychic medium readings; Reiki healing; group and individual coaching; monthly workshops and classes; various charity projects; kayak / SUP meditation with Downunder (Westport) and more. What is different about your congregation and the services that you offer? Lantern House’s programming supports the objective of living authentically and reawakening the spirit with religion, collective mythology, storytelling, dialectical reasoning, the sciences and more. How has your organization evolved and/or what new will you be offering in 2015? Owner Kim Feeney has begun expanding Lantern’s meditation programs to other venues throughout Fairfield County, including Downunder Surf Shop (Westport), Integrated Sports Training (Norwalk) partnered with Fairfield Parks & Recreation, Venture Yoga (Darien) and more. What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about your organization? Lantern House is the center of a LOT of synchronicity for its guests. Customers come in and meet another customer and realize in just a few moments that there’s a deeper reason why they both came into the same place at the same time. Connections happen here all the time. It’s amazing.

Remembering Connection to Earth Grounding During Hectic Holidays

by Slyms Bazile “The moment your foot touches the Earth, or you connect to the Earth through a wire, your physiology changes. An immediate normalization begins. And an anti-inflammatory switch is turned on. People stay inflamed because they never connect with the Earth, the source of free electrons which can neutralize the free radicals in the body that cause disease and cellular destruction. Earthing is the easiest and most profound lifestyle change anyone can make.” ~Biophysicist James Oschman, Ph.D., author of Energy Medicine: The Scientific Basis

s the holiday season approaches, there is no better time to take care to stay grounded. It is all too easy to get caught up in the holiday jumble and lose our sense of peace and well-being. Grounding will ensure us all the peace of mind, the clarity of discernment, and the physical health we need to thrive this holiday season. Grounding or earthing is being found to be an essential part of maintaining our health. Earth’s negative charge emits free electrons that are extremely beneficial to our well-being. Our immune system thrives on an ample supply of electrons. We all have access to these free electrons by having direct contact with Earth. Walking barefoot, sitting and lying on the Earth are all simple ways to detoxify, reenergize and heal. Humanity is awakening. As we rise

from our slumber, we remember how to heal ourselves and we remember what our ancestors knew, what is hidden inside our hearts. The Earth is our mother, and connecting with her restores balance and heals us. Our planet’s healing powers can benefit all life it contains, whether it be humans, animals or plants. Studies have shown that Earth’s subtle electrical fields can directly affect our health in a positive way. It calms the nervous system and synchronizes both hemispheres of our brains, bringing harmony to our physical bodies, mind and soul. Earthing revitalizes the mind and our emotions. Grounding one’s self has proven to reduce stress and restore emotional balance and mental clarity. In 2008, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration announced

that the Earth is linked to the Sun by a network of magnetic portals. Ancient monuments were built directly on energy spots in the Earth. These findings confirm that there is definitely something to this earthling/grounding concept. Extensive scientific research has been done on earthing. One study evaluated 28 parents of autistic children and discovered drastic improvements in behavioral and communication skills after grounding the children for two months. Miraculous results have been documented on individuals dealing with chronic inflammation and terminal illness. When in contact with the Earth, electrons are conducted to our bodies that optimize our health. It may not be feasible to most to walk outside barefoot or lay on the bare earth in the middle of winter. Every problem has a solution. Earthing is quickly becoming a worldwide trend. Many gadgets have been created to take advantage of the Earth’s electrons without having to go barefoot in the cold. There are conductive gadgets that have been created at the onset of this remembrance. Conductive bed sheets, grounding pads, grounding shoes and many more are available online. “It was good for the skin to touch the bare Earth, and old people liked to remove their moccasins and walk with their bare feet on the sacred Earth. They sat on the ground with the feeling of being close to a mothering power.... the soil was soothing, strengthening, cleansing and healing.” ~Luther Standing Bear Sioux Tribal Leader (1868-1939) Slyms Bazile is a healing artist, certified Reiki practitioner and the creator of Organic Remembrance Therapy. Bazile offers personalized healing sessions at Transformation for Life Wellness Center, 80 North St, Danbury. For more information, email OrganicRemembrance@ gmail.com or call 203-617-8228 or 860-341-2310. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 77. For more information about indoor grounding products, visit Grounded. com or call 800-228-1507.

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December 2014

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STAMFORD We are currently distributed at 70 locations in Stamford including: • ShopRite on West Main St • Inside the main library as well as at the library branches • Multiple High Ridge Rd points including Bulls’ Head Diner and Mrs. Greens • Multiple Hope St points including Big Apple Smoothie Café and Village Bagel • Just Cats on East Main St Eight newspaper-style street boxes in downtown Stamford (several recently added!) • Two on Summer St, near Modell’s and Dairy Queen • Two on Bedford St, outside the library and outside the police station • One on the south-side of the train station • One on East Main St, near McDonald’s • One on Sixth St at LA Fitness • One at the corner of Bank St Our amazing advertisers in Stamford will always have a few copies on hand! Dr. Michael Doyle’s office… Mind-Body Transformation/Diane Bahr-Groth… Robin Ordan… Organic Sleep at Sleep Etc… Dr. Henry Sobo’s office… If you have suggestions for a new distribution point in Stamford, please email: NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsmag.com

Fairfield County Edition

Article adapted from the film, Song of the New Earth

Music and sound tradition, sometimes for hen I was a youngster, I are the language five hours a day. Without realizing it, I was changclearly remember and architecture ing my neurophysiology. reading a book, The Boy Who Sang to the World, of the cosmos. Brain research shows that when we experience although I later learned it pure sound without landoesn’t exist. I read it in guage, the right side of the brain lights some other realm of consciousness and up like a Christmas tree. I’d worked that’s what I became. in brain research for about 13 years I sang to the world, sun, moon, when, while meditating, I received new stars and all life. I sang in church and information about brain geometry that choirs and later took up guitar and I recognized as the geometry of conpiano. One day, a visitor to our house said, “You’re going to heal many people sciousness in its relationship to sound and emotion. in this world with that voice.” I understood that if I taught this to When I attended the University of North Carolina, I discovered that neuro- others, I would observe rapid change physiology could be used as a language and improvement in brain function and creativity, which took place when to explain mystical experiences. The I conducted beta testing at three sites. whole time I was engaged in scientific One day, I was in California doing a training, I was also going deeper into workshop when these sounds just came the mysticism of the East, the yoga through me. That’s what spawned my of India, Taoism of China, Egyptian current sound work. alchemy and Tibetan Buddhism. I was I become like a tuning fork to practicing every meditation from every

natural awakenings

Sound opens consciousness. If consciousness is higher, life on Earth will change. the information that is coming to me. In shamanism, this is called being the hollow reed. I step out of the way. In terms of brain frequencies, I go into an alpha state, in which I can attend to what I need to do vocally, but for that moment surrender my voice to the energy. When I work shamanically with drums, animal spirits come through my voice, as do beings from other traditions. I feel like a doorway, or a chauffeur looking in the back seat to see who I’m driving. I live in two diametrically opposed worlds. I’m logical in how I look at things and am fascinated by brain neurology. Then there’s this other side that’s off the charts. I never know when the whales are going to appear. As I operate in an altered state, I can see humpbacks psychically approaching until one of them enters my energy field. Subjectively, I become as large as a whale, at the same time I’m aware of my physical body. I have dual realities, and then the whale sounds emanate through me. In a visionary experience on my 40th birthday, the question arose, “Will you sing the song of the new Earth?” I believe that we’re not going to survive much longer as a species if we don’t change how we are living, and that’s what my work is about. Many people are having spiritual emergences, yet we don’t, as a culture, have a place to harness its potential. What I do with groups is a type of sound healing, working collectively with the energy of a large gathering. Each person responds in ways unique to them, breathing into some inner emotion and making a sound that matches how it feels inside. Something happens with people that attend these events. It’s about the transformation and beauty of being able to step into the unknown to commune with a knowledge and intelligence that’ll sing through my voice. Together, we’ll see what will come forward. A major message I’ve received is that if we are to survive, we must raise the feminine out of the ashes created by millennia of cultural traditions and have the male and female meet together, not one above the other, but in equality, and with that union, create a new world. The boy who sang to the world has grown up to sing a space that allows people to create their hopes and dreams into existence. Psychologist and musician Tom Kenyon is trained in Ericksonian medical hypnosis and whole brain learning. His 25 years of practicing psychotherapy led to the formation of Acoustic Brain Research to scientifically study neuropsychology and psychoacoustics. He teaches Tibetan Buddhism, Taoism, Hinduism, Egyptian high alchemy and esoteric Christianity. He has authored Brain States, many CDs and the new documentary about his journey, Song of the New Earth (SongOfTheNewEarth.com).

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December 2014

therapyspotlight

Awakening Potential One Brain at a Time Westport Center Celebrates One-Year Anniversary

then went on to become a facilitator in the technique, believing this work would be of benefit to many of his patients. In the winter of 2013, he opened the first HBL center in the Northeast, in Westport. Now celebrating its first anniversary and including multiple trained HBL facilitators, Breiner says his initial thoughts about the promise of the technique have been borne out during this first full year of practice. “This is incredibly freeing and powerful for people,” he says. “It really does help people shift in a big way.” Lynn Lantieri of New Haven is one of Breiner’s patients and she agrees with his assessment of the HBL work. More than a year and a half into her HBL sessions, Lantieri credits HBL with opening her world and getting her unstuck. “I’ve been on a self-growth path since age 20,” she says. “But one of my issues was kind of stuck and I was having trouble breaking through it. When Dr. Breiner suggested HBL, I thought it was worth a shot. I didn’t know how strong I was until now. It’s like there was another dimension of me that I’m just now tapping into and it feels really good.”

by Nicole Miale “If you want to find the secrets of the Universe, think in terms of energy, frequency, and vibration.” ~Nikola Tesla

airfield County naturopathic physician Adam Breiner first heard about Higher Brain Living (HBL) from a business associate in Minnesota. His colleague was undergoing sessions of the gentle-touch technique and protocol developed by chiropractic physician

Michael Cotton and raved about their effects. “I was interested in what I heard and started researching it. What I found seemed to make sense based on what I’d previously studied about the brain and its functioning,” Breiner explains. “I could see the possibilities that this process could create for people. It was exciting.” After undergoing a series of his own HBL sessions as a client, Breiner

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What is Higher Brain Living?

Science has shown that most of our daily life experiences are filtered through our lower brain, which is focused on survival and therefore dominated by anxiety, worry and stress. This physiological phenomenon in turn blocks access to the prefrontal cortex or higher brain, which seems to hold an apparently limitless capacity for joy and

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well-being. HBL activates the underused “HBL creates measurable Instead, the sense of strength and energy higher brain through a 22-step (session) continues post-session. changes in brain wave program developed by Cotton. Gentle Another HBL participant, Natural touch along the spine and at certain patterns associated with Awakenings’ Bergen County, New Jersey, points on the upper chest are used to publisher Jerry Hocek, first learned activate unused energetic pathways in the increased states of peace, about HBL from his wife Pat. Pat Hocentral nervous system, allowing energy well-being and relaxation.” cek received sessions with Breiner in in the form of spontaneous deep breaths the Westport center and has gone on to surge into the prefrontal cortex. The influx of energy brings to become an HBL facilitator. Jerry Hocek was somewhat more oxygen up through the body and increases metabolism skeptical when she first began the work, but seeing his wife’s in the higher brain. This reduces lower brain dominance, response to the work motivated him to try it himself and his transcending the effects of everyday stress associated with own experience has been powerful. “I definitely feel stronger home and work environments, financial worry, job loss, and more resolved to actualize the person I choose to be,” he smoking, weight loss and other stressors. says. “I also find myself finally moving towards certain goals, Reducing the effects of stress is a critical element to livsome of which were unrealized for months and even years.” ing a healthy, happy life. The American Medical Association The energy surges activated by the technique and their reports that stress is the cause of up to 85 percent of all illness effects on the brain are not subjective; these have been valiand disease in the United States; approximately 90 percent of dated by objective scientific studies, including EEGs. In the all primary care physician visits are due to stress-related issues. same way meditation has been shown to increase activity in According to research conducted over many years by Amit the higher brain, HBL creates measurable changes in brain Sood, M.D., professor of medicine at Mayo Clinic College of wave patterns associated with increased states of peace, Medicine in Rochester, Minnesota, and chair of Mayo Mind well-being and relaxation. The difference is that HBL rapidly Body Initiative, stress affects both the occurrence and severity replicates the energy transformation over the course of 22 of illness and disease. During a radio interview in Septemsessions while years of meditation may be needed to show ber 2014, Sood discussed his research and its implications. similar or comparable effect. He emphasized the role of personal choice in creating and As the human search continues for elevated consciousfomenting stress, saying that with every interaction, we have ness and equanimity in the face of stress, Higher Brain Living two choices; We can react from a place of inattention, discon- offers an intriguing glimpse into what may be possible for nection and fear (lower brain) or we can cultivate the ability those who choose to remove their barriers to change and to respond from a place of presence, attention and connection activate more of themselves. Founder Cotton says HBL is (higher brain). The latter is an expanded consciousness and nothing less than setting humanity free through the power of empowerment state associated with new ways of knowing and the untapped brain. being in the world, an awakening to maximized potential. This Nicole Miale is managing editor of Natural Awakenings is what the HBL protocol facilitates in each individual via an Fairfield County. Connect with her at NicoleM@ internal feedback mechanism releasing stress while rejuvenatNaturalAwakeningsMag.com. ing and reorganizing every cell. “I’ve done a lot of metaphysical work but never felt sure For more information or to attend a Higher Brain Living if it was working or not. It was very frustrating,” Lantieri says. presentation, including observation of a demo HBL session, “With HBL, I experienced the energy in my body from the visit AwakenHigherBrainLiving.com/Connecticut/Westport/ second session. I could feel a humming in my body that I had Westport/Home or call 203-863-8333. The next scheduled never felt before.” That feeling doesn’t just happen during presentation will be December 4 at 7pm. Location: the sessions, which are 45-minutes in length and conducted 17 Bridge Square, Westport. See ad, page 13. while the client is fully clothed and lying on a massage table.

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

Celebration Service, Sun at 10:30 am Open Mic Night, 3rd Sat at 7 pm

Reiki Healing Circle, 1st Thu at 7 pm Purls of Wisdom, 2nd Sat at 6:30 pm

Special Events

"Swingin’ in a Winter Wonderland" with Chuck Sweeney as Miss Peggy Lee Saturday, December 6th at 7:00 pm - $20 Tickets Candlelight Christmas Eve Service Wednesday, December 24th at 6:00 pm eNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2014

petbriefs Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic Winter Events The Monthly Naturally Healthy Pet Section Starts Here!

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

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

Fairfield County Edition

tratford’s Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic is ringing in the holidays and new year with a series of fundraising activities and events during the month of December. The clinic will be conducting its annual Tree of Lights event in mid-December. For just $5 per light, attendees can commemorate the life of a deceased or living pet on their tree. The tree will be lit and adorned through the month of December until the beginning of January. An ongoing fundraising event is the sale of private-labeled wines to support the clinic and its FeralCare operation. This year will feature holiday wines in six different flavors via mail order only. The wine is delivered directly to your door, making it an ideal gift idea. Each bottle is $19.99 and a portion of every sale will benefit the Nutmeg Clinic and FeralCare. Each wine features a cat from the clinic’s foster program - Keifer, Amelia, Neisha, Cali, Ingrid or Lindsey. Another ongoing benefit program is the purchase of memorial tiles for the clinic wall. The tiles range in size and color from $50 to $500. Tiles may be customized to say anything in honor of a furry or human loved one. If you have a vehicle (car, truck, motorcycle or boat) that is no longer in use, it can be donated to Nutmeg through DonationLine.com. Vehicles can be in running or not running condition. This is an ongoing fundraiser throughout the year. For more information, visit NutmegClinic.org. Location: 25 Charles St, Stratford. See ad, page 49.

Holiday Boutique to Benefit Animal Welfare

he New Fairfield/Sherman Animal Welfare Society is holding its Holiday Boutique on December 6 from 10am to 4pm with all proceeds going to the shelter. The Society will have decorated tabletop trees, live wreaths, crafted wreaths, baked goods, quilted items, dog toys, cat toys, pet and people blankets, handmade ornaments and much more for sale. Hundreds of cat and dog products, pet photography, NFSAW T-shirts and raffle items will also be available. The event offers free parking and admission. The mission of the New Fairfield/Sherman Animal Welfare Society is to offer refuge, medical care and the opportunity for a second chance for life to needy dogs and cats. For more information, visit nfsaw.org. Location: Community Room, New Fairfield Senior Center, 33 Route 37, New Fairfield.

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Mary Oquendo VP of Holistic Pet Stylists’ Board

Committed To Providing Quality Care At Every Stage Of Your Pet's Life. Please call our office today for all your pet health care needs.

(860)355-3756 www.thevalleyvet.com

- Full Service Animal Hospital - Comprehensive Healthcare Services - Medical, Surgical and Dental - Serving New Milford, Litchfield County, and the Greater Danbury area.

Providing complete care for our patients since 1987.

Valley Veterinary Hospital • 437 Danbury Road, New Milford, CT 06776

ary Oquendo, co-owner of Hands And Paws-Reiki For All in New Milford, was named as vice president for the Society of Holistic Pet Stylists. The Society of Holistic Pet Stylists’ purpose is to help holistic groomers find support and learning, and to help bring holistic and encompassing grooming to the forefront of the pet grooming industry. The organization includes supportive pet care topics in its sources of interest and in its founding members’ areas of expertise. Among those are gentle grooming techniques and the use of more natural products, thorough understanding of product ingredients, caring for the pet’s skin and coat, natural pest relief, non-invasive dental care, nutrition and supplements, positive reinforcement training, massage, water work, acupressure and acupuncture, TTouch, aromatherapy, sound and light therapy, color therapy and energy work. Hands And Paws-Reiki For All in New Milford provides a variety of wellness programs and educational workshops for both people and pets. Services include Reiki, integrated energy, crystal therapy, custom therapeutic jewelry, space clearings and intuitive readings. For more information on the Society of Holistic Pet Stylists, visit HolisticPetStylists.com. To find out more about Mary Oquendo, visit HandsandPawsReiki.com, or call 203-994-5308, Facebook.com/ HandsandPawsReikiForAll or HandsandPawsReiki.com/Blog. See ad, page 52.

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.

Please

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

UNLEASH YOUR EARNING POTENTIAL Fetch new customers by advertising in Natural Awakenings’ Monthly Section Naturally Healthy Pet. eNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2014

Gifts of the Season Ideas for Furkids and People Who Love Them by Donna Gleason PATRICIA’S PRESENTS 199 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield 860-946-9705 • PatriciasPresents.com

The Gift of Gifts BARKERY BOO’TIQUE 38 Bank St, New Milford 860-210-1312 Bakery Boo’tique was established in 2006 by Debbie Bauman to provide highquality healthy food and treats, unique products and gifts for pets and their owners. The store’s name was inspired by the beloved family dog, Boo, who was rescued from an animal shelter in Connecticut. The pet boutique and bakery carries natural, organic and grain-free pet foods for your dog’s dietary needs in addition to one-of-a-kind, fun, fashionable, homemade and all-natural pet products located throughout the store. Mention this article and receive a discount off your entire purchase from the Barkery Boo’tique. EARTH ANIMAL 606 Post Rd East, Westport 203-222-7173 • EarthAnimal.com Earth Animal has been a pioneer in the natural pet food industry for decades. The Goldstein family-owned business sells its own veterinarian-formulated products for dogs and cats. These include vitamins, organic herbal remedies and a natural flea and tick prevention program. Dr. Bob Goldstein has partnered with Bell&Evans to produce a hormoneand antibiotic-free line of Americanmade chicken treats. Earth Animal also sells raw and dehydrated foods and organic home-cooking pre-mixes, plus the highest quality treats, bones, toys, leashes, collars, beds, and more. 48

Fairfield County Edition

Patricia’s Presents is the creation of owner Patricia Polk, featuring unique leather, fabric, Beautifulleather, Objects vegan for Discerning pillows, Customers ceramic, books, jewelry and A treasure of unique other gifttrove items for pet lovers. No matgift items to suit all tastes! ter what species or breed your loved Pet and Equestrian one prefers, Themed Items Patricia’s Presents offers a gift option they will treasure. There are puppies and ponies and a plethora of hand-painted pillows, purses and packs Stunning Fair Trade — Lucious creatively designed backpacks for Vegan Jewelry… Leather that children feature and more monkeys and cats, Goods as well as dogs and horses. Presents A visitor to her store can select from 199Patricia’s Ethan Allen Highway Ridgeﬁ eld, 06877 many localCTproducts, including shirts 860-946-9705 hand-painted and designed in New www.patriciaspresents.com Parking! York,Plentiful wood sculptures carved in Massachusetts, and giclée pet handbags from Maryland. Dog and horse pillows come from an artist in Arizona who paints on a canvas and has the picture of the painting pressed onto the cotton pillow. She also has ties with dogs and horses on them and Christmas ornaments that include flying pigs and mermaids.

Patricia’s Presents

The Gift of Nutrition PAUL’S CUSTOM PET FOOD 603-706-0739 PaulsCustomPetFood.com The vision of Paul’s Custom Pet Food (PCPF) began four years ago when Paul Gallant’s dog, Hunter, was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer. As part of the treatment protocol, Paul changed his dog’s diet and began to cook for him. As of today, Hunter’s tumor and cancer are gone and Paul is still cooking for him and the pets of others as his way of giving back. The meals prepared by PCPF begin with fresh and humanely raised meat,

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fish, fruit, vegetables and whole grains, all of which are approved for human consumption by the USDA. PCPF makes every effort to buy local and organic ingredients free of genetic engineering, synthetic chemicals, growth hormones, unnecessary antibiotics and preservatives. Each meal is handmade in a state-certified kitchen, and delivered or shipped to your door fresh-frozen to maintain its nutritional integrity. Mention this article and receive a free sample of any one of Paul’s three dog food recipes. Samples must be picked up at the Westport Farmers’ Market, Westport.

The Gift of Wellness PHOENIX MASSAGE, PERSONAL TRAINING, AND BODYWORK 22 Joe’s Hill Rd, Danbury 203-778-3995 Scott@Phoenix4Massage.com Phoenix4Massage.com Scott Coldwell, owner of Phoenix Massage, Personal Training & Bodywork, has spent most of his life helping two- and four-legged clients. He is a licensed massage therapist specializing in Swedish, deep tissue, trigger point, kinesthetic myofascial integration, sports massage and restorative massage. He has extensive experience with energy work, Reiki and canine massage and bodywork. “Whether working with two-legged or four-legged clients, my health and fitness philosophy is based on a ‘whole body’ experience – utilizing the mind, body and spirit,” says Coldwell. Mention this article and receive $10 off your first massage.

The Gift of Life 203 PET SERVICE 203-682-6443 Bark@203Pet.com • 203Pet.com Did you know that every 30 seconds there is a pet medical emergency? Jason Hofman of 203 Pet Service

learned that and became a certified Pet Tech pet first aid and CPR instructor. He wanted to make sure that all pet owners within the community have access to learn the skills necessary to take care of a dog or cat in distress. In addition to first aid and CPR instruction, 203 Pet Services also offers dog walking, pet sitting and professional group and private dog training in lower Fairfield County. 203 Pet Services was voted “Weekly Best of Fairfield County’s Readers Poll – 2013.” They are able to care for your dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters. Their primary service area is Fairfield, Southport, Westport, Easton and Bridgeport. Mention this ad and receive four free midday dog walks when you prepay for 16 midday weekday walks.

The Gift of Love

The Gift of Obedience

HANDS AND PAWS REIKI FOR ALL 375 Danbury Rd, New Milford 203-994-5308 HandsAndPawsReiki.com

NEW FAIRFIELD ANIMAL HOSPITAL 28 Connecticut 39, New Fairfield 203-312-9000 • NewFairfieldVet.com

Hands And Paws Reiki For All was born as a result of owner Mary Oquendo’s experience with her dog, Marcus. Marcus’ medical issues were not responding to modern medical intervention. She believes it was the addition of Reiki and crystal therapy in conjunction with modern veterinary care that gave Marcus back his quality of life. In addition to educational workshops, Hands And Paws offers Reiki, crystal therapy, integrated energy therapy, space clearings, intuitive and chakra readings for health maintenance for both people and their pets. Buy a 60-minute Reiki or crystal therapy session and pay for 45 minutes with mention of this article (offer valid through December 30).

Did you know that some hotels only let dogs who are recognized as a Canine Good Citizen (CGC) into their establishment? Understanding the importance of raising a polite dog in the home and in the community, New Fairfield Animal Hospital (NFAH) - a full service medical and surgical facility offering everything from basic wellness care to advanced diagnostics and treatment, including laparoscopic procedures - and Donna Gleason, a certified dog trainer and certified dog behavior consultant, will be offering a six-week CGC class. Established in 1989, this twopart program stresses responsible pet

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December 2014

ownership for owners and basic good manners for dogs. All dogs that pass the ten-step CGC test are eligible to receive a certificate from the American Kennel Club. The Canine Good Citizen Program lays the foundation for other AKC activities such as obedience, agility, tracking and performance events. Mention this article and take 10 percent off the price of a six-week Canine Good Citizen group class hosted by NFAH. DOG GONE SMART 15 Cross St, Norwalk 203-838-7729 • DogGoneSmart.com One of Fairfield County’s longest-running canine facilities, Dog Gone Smart has been serving pets and the humans who love them for more than 20 years. The diverse services include an emphasis on training; the staff consists primarily of dog trainers and animal behaviorists who work with people and their dogs to make canines happy and well-behaved citizens. Dog Gone Smart has developed a two-pronged approach to dog training which combines a dog’s natural instinct with a positive motivational approach to learning. We offer various training programs depending on the needs of the individual person and dog. Their staff’s extensive experience in evaluating the characteristics of a dog allows them to apply the proper training methods in order to achieve success. Other services include full-service grooming, doggie day care, boarding, swimming/rehabilitation and more.

The Gift of Health BELLA ALPACAS/JUDY APICELLA 155 Squash Hollow Rd, New Milford 860-946-3076 SalApicella@yahoo.com BellaAlpacas.com Judy Apicella has been studying healing for over 25 years. She is a certified Reiki master, a certified inter-dimensional healing, and a crystal and gem healer. Her remedies include: Lyme Be Gone: “My pug, Sofia, could not walk. The vet said she had one of the worst cases of Lyme disease and must start antibiotics immediately. I told her about my remedy and she gave me two days and then would have to insist putting Sofia on antibiotics. After two days, my Sofia was able to run into the vet’s office, happy and better than ever - antibiotics were not needed,” says Apicella. Eczema Spray: “I own an alpaca farm and was given an alpaca who had an extreme case of mange. I mixed a combination of pure, organic essential oils and began to spray my alpaca. Within one week, I saw major results and, within a month, the fleece began to grow back,” she explains. Mention this article and receive a 5 percent discount on your first order.

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

Overnight Boarding Doggy Daycare Full service grooming 24 hour on-site staff Veterinarian recommended Group playtime daily

“This is the best kennel. My Sadie loves to spend the day there. They treat her like a celebrity!” - Marie-Wilton, CT

P: (203) 762-7998 F: (203) 834-0502 499 Danbury Road Wilton, CT 06897

www.passageeastkennels.com 50

Fairfield County Edition

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email: passage_east@sbcglobal.net

The Gift of Beauty DOWNTOWN DOG 66 Railroad St, New Milford 860-957-7103 TheDowntownDogSpa.com Katharine Pileggi, owner of the Downtown Dog, knew when she was a little girl that she would end up working with animals. Prior to opening her grooming spa, she became a lead veterinarian technician and educated in animal nutrition and parasite counseling. Pileggi is credentialed in Korean and Japanese dog style grooming and uses aroma and sound therapy as part of her every day practice to help calm even the most nervous pet - and owner. Downtown Dog is now selling Castor and Pollux organic dog and cat food, treats and litter is a multi-sensory experience. At the Downtown Dog, you can choose to get your pet a shampoo service, a shampoo and haircut or choose from the signature packages with add-ons. All services include two-bath, chemical-free shampoo, organic deep conditioner, lavender petal and essential oil-infused bath, nails, teeth, ears, anal glands, skin and coat leave in conditioner and sanitary trim. The Downtown dog also offers pick up and drop off services starting at just $12 each way. Mention this article and receive a free consultation and $5 off any spa service.

T LC Dog Trainer In-Home Dog Training

Puppy Education • Basic Obedience Targeted Behaviors • Behavior Modi�ication

D�� G��, ��, ��, �� D�� B�� C�� gleasondonna@gmail.com www.tlcdogtrainer.com

Call for a FREE evaluation and consultation 203-241-4449

Training • LOV E • Commitment

Final Journey,

LLC

( Pet Euthanasia Service )

Kristen Klie, D.V. M. and Associates

( 203 ) 645-5570 www.finaljourneyllc.com

PASSAGE EAST BOARDING KENNELS & GROOMING 499 Danbury Rd, Wilton 203-762-7998 Passage_East@sbcglobal.net PassageEastKennels.com Passage East has been providing high quality care for Fairfield County dogs since 1967. Located in historic Cannondale Village section of Wilton, the goal at Passage East is to make your dog feel like they never left home. Passage East Kennels offers compassionate care for all breeds; the experienced team understands how dogs think and what makes them happy. Full service grooming is available six days per week. Services include: full brushing/de-matting; sanitary trim; nail trim; pad shaving; ear cleaning; warm baths with all-natural products; fluff drying – never a heated cage dryer; and breed/ standard/custom clips. Mention this article and receive 10 percent off an initial grooming service. Donna Gleason, owner of TLC Dog Trainer, resides in Sherman. She is a certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and IAABC-certified dog behavior consultant (CDBC) with a master’s degree in behavior modification. She offers professional in-home dog training and group puppy/basic obedience classes. For more information, visit TLCDogTrainer.com or call 203-241-4449 or. See ad, page 51.

Coming in February

2015 Natural Living Directory For more information about advertising and how you can participate, call

203-885-4674 eNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2014

HOLIDAY FUNDRAISERS TO BENEFIT ANIMALS Local Adoption Events and Holiday Fundraisers by Leslie McLean

atural Awakenings acknowledges all the hard-working and dedicated animal adoption/ rescue organizations in this region and beyond. These organizations – many staffed almost exclusively by volunteers - work long hours to save, foster and nurture animals of all types and sizes. Many of the animals have been neglected, abused, abandoned or on the streets their entire lives. Several local sanctuaries have been in business for close to 30 years while others are just getting started. Awareness of the animal overpopulation problem in our nation is growing and there is an increasing trend of fostering and pet adoption as people reject buying animals and instead embrace how amazing rescued animals can be. Even if you’re not interested or able to get involved personally by volunteering, adopting or fostering an animal, you can support the work of these organizations by making monetary donations or participating in one of their many fundraising activities during this holiday season. Wonderful gifts can be found while supporting the efforts of local organizations for a great cause.

COMMUNITY CATS PO Box 4380, Stamford CommunityCatsCT@yahoo.com CommunityCatsCT.org Community Cats will have an annual fundraising newsletter posted on its Facebook page at Facebook.com/ CommunityCatsCT. Hard copies will also be available in December at Petco at 431 Westport Ave, Norwalk. In 2015, the organization will start a volunteer recruiting drive for those eager to make a difference in cats’ lives as Community Cats expands its assistance program to Bridgeport.

DANBURY ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY (DAWS) 147 Grassy Plain St, Bethel 203-744-3297 • Daws.org In 2015, DAWS will be focusing on building a new and larger shelter. Donations to support this effort are appreciated.

223 State Rt 37, New Fairfield 203-746-2925 • NFSAW.org NFSAW’s Annual Holiday Boutique will take place on December 6 from 10am to 4pm. The event includes, pictures with Santa, bake sale items, raffle items, hundreds of cat and dog products, handmade crochet and knit items, live wreaths, NFSAW logo t-shirts, holiday centerpieces, hand-crafted ornaments, jewelry and other Christmas accessories and décor. NFSAW will also be doing an adoption event at the shelter on the first Saturday of every month; In December, this will also take place December 6.

NUTMEG SPAY/NEUTER CLINIC 25 Charles St, Stratford 203-690-1550 Info@NutmegClinic.org NutmegClinic.org

Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic is offering holiday wines in different flavors via email order only. Each bottle is $19.99, a portion of which will benefit the Nutmeg Clinic. Each wine features a cat from the organization’s foster program. In mid-December, the clinic will hold its annual Tree of Lights event. Visit NutmegClinic.org for more information.

Reiki for People and Animals

PET ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY INC. (PAWS)

REIKI HEALING AND EDUCATION CENTER

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

Pain and Stress Relief * Sleep Disturbances Headaches * Behavior Problems * Arthritis Chakra Balancing Recharging * and Much More

Reiki Certification Classes & Health and Wellness Workshops Pam Pollard, Reiki Master * Mary Oquendo, Reiki Master, Certifed Crystal Healer 401 Danbury Road, New Milford, CT 06776 * 203-994-5308 * 203-994-1815 HandsandPawsReiki.com * reikihandsandpaws@gmail.com

NEW FAIRFIELD/SHERMAN ANIMAL WELFARE (NFSAW)

Fairfield County Edition

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As a member of the Best Friends Network, PAWS is participating in the Best Friends Holiday Adoption Event. From December 1 through 31, adoptions for all animals are only $25.

PET PROTECTORS 2490 Black Rock Tpke, #453, Fairfield (mailing address only) 203-330-0255 ContactUs@PetProtectorsRescue.org PetProtectorsRescue.org

resourceguide

STRATFORD ANIMAL RESCUE SOCIETY (STAR) Stratford 203-338-7387 StratfordAnimalRescue.org

Photos with Santa will take place on December 13 from 11am to 3pm at Pet Supplies Plus at 675 Bridgeport Ave, Shelton. Pet Protectors is in need of reliable foster homes for some of its rescued animals. Everything needed is provided by the organization.

STAR will be holding a Holiday Wreath & Decoration Fundraiser and orders can be placed through the organization’s website. Pick up will be December 6 from 11am to 3pm or December 7 from 1 to 3pm at the Stratford Animal Control Facility, located at 225 Beacon Point Rd, Stratford.

RIDGEFIELD OPERATION FOR ANIMAL RESCUE (ROAR)

WESTPORT ANIMAL SHELTER ADVOCATES (WASA)

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

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

ROAR will hold an adoption event on December 6 from noon to 3pm at Quarry Ridge Animal Hospital, located at 30 Old Quarry Rd, Ridgefield. The organization will be sharing animal pictures with Santa and providing treats for animals and humans.

WASA adopts homeless dogs in Fairfield County with a primary focus on attending to the needs of impounded dogs at the Westport and Bridgeport Animal Control facilities. The rescue group provides funds for their vet care while exercising and training the dogs. A Photos with Santa event will take place at Westport’s Winslow Park Animal Hospital on December 13 from 1 to 4pm. In lieu of a photo fee, donations will benefit WASA. Westport’s Granola Bar will be on hand with hot chocolate and baked goods. WASA volunteers will be there as well with dogs available for adoption. For additional information, contact Winslow Park Animal Hospital at 203-226-5555 or WASA at 203-557-0361.

STRAYS AND OTHERS PO Box 473, New Canaan 203-966-6556 Petfinder.com/Shelters/StraysandOthers.html Facebook.com/StraysandOthers

Strays & Others will be celebrating its 30th Anniversary in 2015. The rescue group has approximately 60 pets currently being fostered. Strays & Others needs more land and resources in order to support all of the animals. Fundraising events will be taking place in 2015.

Leslie McLean is a contributing writer and District Sales Manager for Natural Awakenings Fairfield County. Connect with her at 203-470-4435 or LeslieMcLean@optonline.net.

DOGGIE DAY CAMP, DAY CARE, TRAINING & BOARDING DOG GONE SMART 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 51.

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

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 50.

PET FOOD & HEALTH SUPPLIES THE HONEST KITCHEN

145 14th St, San Diego, CA 866-437-9729 • TheHonestKitchen.com The Honest Kitchen provides natural, human-grade pet food products for dogs and cats. Our gourmet recipes are 100 percent natural and gently dehydrated. See ad, page 47.

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 49.

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December 2014

• Quality and/or rarity of the botanical country of origin • Amount of oil that can be distilled from the botanical • The standards of the distillery, as well as size as large companies can reduce operating costs through volume • Organic sourcing • Type of oil, the type of oil also affects price

The Fundamentals of Essential Oils by Mary Oquendo

What Are Essential Oils? They are hydrophobic liquids that contain the volatile oils that are distilled from the bark, berries, flowers, leaves, peels, resin, rhizomes, seeds, stems or wood of living plants. Essential oils feel oily because they are often diluted in a carrier oil such as almond, apricot kernel, citrus or grapeseed. Most essential oils are produced by steam distillation. Even hydrosols, the “waste” water of the steam distillate process, retain therapeutic properties. Nothing is wasted. For tougher materials, such as citrus peels, mechanical expression or coldpressed methods are used. Solvent extraction is used for more delicate flowers. Solvent extraction is a complex process which usually leaves a trace residual solvent in the essential oil.

The How, Why and Uses of Essential Oil A plant’s essential oil governs its immune system. It is the plant’s blood. It navigates that plant through the insects, fungus, viruses and bacteria in its environment. Different essential oils have their own unique physical and emotional therapeutic properties, such as anti-diuretic, anti-fungal, anti-microbial and others. Humans and animals absorb these essential oils into our bloodstream by contact, inhalation or ingestion. In addition, essential oils have many household uses, including cleaning and disinfecting properties. Contact: Soaps, massage oils, shampoos, lotions, perfumes, cosmetics, bath and other spa products Inhalation: Incense, air fresheners, aromatherapy diffusers and candles Ingesting: Tinctures made by a medical or other licensed professional Household: Use in trash cans, washing machines, vacuum cleaners and drains Store essential oils in dark-colored glass bottles as heat and sunlight degrades them.

Price and Availability Options There are many considerations in factoring prices. 54

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• Fragrance oils are synthesized in a lab, cheaper to produce and have none of the therapeutic properties of essential oils. • Therapeutic grade essential oils are more expensive to produce than their non-therapeutic grade counterparts. • Hydrosols are a water-based version of the essential oil. They are a by-product of the distillation process. They were discarded until it was discovered that they still retained the therapeutic properties, minus the terpenes. Essential oils are dangerous for cats as they are unable to metabolize terpenes. Most hydrosols are a safe alternative for cats. •Absolutes are a very concentrated essential oil. It is an involved process and will likely have trace amounts of solvents. They are very expensive and are not ingestible. •Blends are a combination of several essential oils designed for a particular issue. • Tinctures are therapeutic grade essential oils in an alcohol base. The aromatherapy industry is not regulated. Barbara Bird, creator of The Scented Groomer line of aromatherapy products for groomers, says, “With the tremendous surge in the popularity of aromatherapy and use of essential oils, the demand is straining the supply. Unfortunately, this has resulted in the appearance of adulterated products or oils that have been stretched by the addition of cheaper oils or poor-grade distillates. It is important to purchase essential oils from trusted sources and companies with a commitment to quality and a history with aromatherapy. Expect to pay more for products using good quality essential oils.” Cautions: As with any product, there is a danger of an allergic reaction. Do a patch test before applying topicals and use caution when ingesting or administering tinctures. Improper dosing of tinctures can result in mild to severe medical emergencies. In addition, improper use of topicals and inhalants cause damage to eyes and lungs. Consult with a medical or veterinary professional before treating any medical condition or if you are pregnant. Use products according to the manufacturer or your professional instructions. Never use essential oils undiluted. Although many products are packaged already diluted in carrier oil, read the label to confirm. Essential oils are flammable. Use aromatherapy diffusers according to the manufacturer’s directions. Do not apply essential oils directly to the plastic components of household appliances as the oils can damage plastics. 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. See ad, page 52.

system, as it contains essential minerals and vitamins specific for anxiety and tension, which may sometimes lead to digestive symptoms or nervous upset. Chamomile tea ensures a restful night sleep and a harmonious next day.

Flower Power

Herbal Support for Holiday Stress and Winter Wellness by Lupo Passero

he holidays are here and although the celebrations can be wonderful and enjoyable, it can sometimes be a stressful ride getting there. Between planning and shopping, cooking and cleaning, keeping up with school activities, parties and events, it is easy to become overwhelmed and exhausted before the fun has even begun. There are many simple and nourishing herbal traditions to help you stay relaxed in addition to fighting off the winter blues. Start simple. One of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to incorporate herbs into your daily life is by making a warm cup of tea. This daily ritual at any time of the day can create more ease and balance in your life. Taking the time to heat the water, prepare your favorite mug, and slowly sipping the hot liquid are all part of an ancient healing practice. For those hectic days when you do not have the time to even make a cup of tea, herbalists will often recommend using a liquid extract such as an herbal tincture or flower essence. These herbal remedies are often stored in small glass bottles that conveniently fit into a pocket or handbag and can be used anytime when on the go.

Holy Basil: Sacred Herb of India

A popular herb for stress reduction is holy basil. Holy basil (ocimum sanctum)

grows wild throughout India and is one of the country’s most highly revered and well-loved herbs. It has more than 3,000 years of recorded use in Ayurvedic medicine. Like the more well-known sweet basil herb, holy basil also has pleasant and aromatic flavor that makes for a delicious cup of tea. Herbalists and alternative health care practitioners often refer to holy basil as an adaptogen, which means that it is considered to help the body adapt to stress and to exert a normalizing effect upon bodily processes. Holy basil’s adaptogenic abilities are also believed to help strengthen the immune system and ward off germs during the winter months. Holy basil tea or tincture is a great way to start your morning as it encourages energy and is believed to help balance the chakras.

Chamomile: An oldie but goodie

A long-time favorite herbal remedy, chamomile (matricaria chamomilla) is a good choice for anyone suffering from stress or stress-related symptoms. Chamomile flowers are one of the most commonly used herbs in the Western world. This apple-scented flower has been traditionally used for insomnia, anxiety and upset stomach, among many other ailments. In Germany, the word for chamomile translates to “capable of anything.” Chamomile has the ability to relax and nourish the nervous

Flower essences and the herbal remedies mentioned above share a long history of safe and effective use as plant medicine. They both work to encourage wellness and reduce stress in the body. Herbal remedies are prepared using many plant parts, including the roots, leaves, flowers and seeds; Flower essences are prepared using only the fresh flower combined with pure water and a small amount of natural preservative. Flower essences are considered homeopathic in nature and make fantastic remedies for overcoming stress and anxiety. “Rescue” formulas are one of the best-known natural stress relief remedies. Usually comprised of a blend of five flower essences, this formula is a must-have for a peaceful holiday season for the entire family as it can be administered to children and animals as well. Flower essences are usually sold in a glass dropper bottle, but can also be found in spray and chewable forms. The common recommendation is to take doses up to four times a day or as needed for acute stress. Both herbal remedies and flower essences can have a remarkable effect on the human body when used solely or in conjunction with one another. There are many great medicinal tea blends, tinctures and essences available at your local health food stores or herbal apothecary. Incorporating a few of these relaxing herbal remedies into yout daily routine will encourage wellness and ensure an enjoyable holiday season. Lupo Passero is a community herbalist and flower essence practitioner and the director of Twin Star Herbal Education and Apothecary. Passero offers workshops, classes and consultations as well as herbal journeys to Costa Rica and Southwest France. For more information, visit TwinStarHerbal.com or email TwinStarHerbInfo@gmail.com. See ad, page 42.

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Sleep 101: How to Choose a Dream Mattress by Christine Chamberlin

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dults spend about one-third of each day in bed, forging a strong bond between the mattress and the sleeper’s overall health. Yet most people rush through the process of choosing a mattress—from overlooking details about construction materials to skipping the time it takes to properly test-drive (or test-nap) all the options. Here are five steps to follow to choose a dream mattress.

Step 1: Go Green

Many mattress options are conventional; they are toxic concoctions of oil, polyester and chemicals, which cause a sleeping body to do battle rather than rest and repair. Fortunately, there are organic and all-natural mattress options available in all sizes, sleep styles and price points. Crafted from sustainable sources, these mattresses also avoid chemical flame-retardants, instead utilizing natural materials to pass the

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required flame barrier tests required by the federal government.

Step 2: Know the Materials

Organic mattresses are made with materials found in nature, like cotton, sea grass and coconut fiber. Wool, the organic mattress “superstar,” is often used as batting and as a comfort layer. It acts as a body temperature regulatory agent, keeping sleepers cooler in summer and warmer in winter; it’s also inherently antimicrobial and antibacterial as well as dust mite resistant, eliminating the need to enclose a mattress in anti-dust mite casings. Wool smolders instead of ignites under direct flame and selfextinguishes, making it a natural flame retardant. Structurally, a mattress can be comprised of either latex, innerspring or a combination of the two. Traditionally, all-natural innerspring mattresses will feel the most familiar, with the maxi-

When testing a mattress, shoulders, hips and knees are the areas that predominantly develop radiating pain if not adequately supported. mum amount of airflow and breathability. All-natural latex varies in firmness from very soft to firm; the amount of material used versus the amount of air allowed into the mold will determine its feel. As for the material itself, all-natural latex is a raw sap pulled from the Hevea brasiliensis tree, native to India, Thailand, Sri Lanka and Malaysia. The liquid is collected from the tree, placed into molds and heated to form the layers that make up a mattress.

Step 3: Be Like Goldilocks

Comfort and support are paramount in achieving the perfect fit between sleeper and mattress. When testing a mattress, shoulders, hips and knees are the areas that predominantly develop radiating pain if not adequately supported. The mattress should be firm enough to support the body, while giving little, if any, positive or negative resistance feedback on the bodyline. For example, if a sleeper is on his right side, a mattress is too firm if he feels the mattress press firmly against his right hip, pushing it upward. It’s too soft if he feels his left hip being driven down into the mattress. The concentration of body weight will be in the lumbar to pelvic region, so this is a great barometer of immediate support and comfort. Once a mattress is found where the feedback is neutral, firmness can be moved up or down as comfort and support allows. What’s good for the goose isn’t always good for the gander, and so a couple selecting a mattress together should look for one with customizable firmness configurations.

Step 4: Talk the Pillow Talk

A mattress works in tandem with pillows. The right pillow encourages and supports proper alignment of the neck and spine, leading to easier breathing, a deeper night’s sleep with less tossing and turning, and reduced strain on muscles and joints. Plenty of all-natural pillow varieties are available, with a range of cover materials and types of fill, along with construction that relates to preferred sleep position (back, side or stomach) and personal build. Because mattress firmness influences a pillow’s performance, it’s wise to carry a pillow from bed to bed while testing mattresses.

Step 5: Don’t Rest Until It’s a Perfect Fit

Finding that dream mattress takes time, usually around 15 minutes per bed to adequately gauge feedback. Christine Chamberlin is co-founder and co-owner of The Clean Bedroom, a resource for allergy-free, eco-friendly mattresses, bedding and accessories. Celebrating its 10th anniversary later this year, The Clean Bedroom has sleep showrooms in Greenwich and seven other national locations. For more information, visit TheCleanBedroom.com or call 207-4389778. See ad, page 5.

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POLENTA TART WITH TOMATOES AND GOAT CHEESE (Serves 6 to 8)

Many thanks to one of our readers for sharing this polenta crust recipe, a great gluten-free option that everyone will enjoy. It can be used as a base for any toppings you fancy. Here a thin layer of goat cheese, sweet cherry tomatoes and sun dried tomatoes makes a great combo. 1 1/2 cup finely ground dry polenta (cornmeal) 2 cups cold water 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup grated Romano or Parmesan cheese 4 ounces soft goat cheese 1 pint sliced cherry tomatoes 1/4 cup thinly sliced sun-dried tomatoes packed in olive oil 1/4 cup loosely packed slivered fresh basil leaves 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil • Preheat oven to 375°F. Oil a 10-inch tart pan with removable base with olive oil cooking spray and set aside. • Combine polenta with water in a sauce pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer, stirring constantly for 5 minutes. Stir in the grated cheese and continue to stir 3 to 5 minutes longer. Transfer polenta to prepared tart pan. Spread it evenly over bottom and up sides of pan. Bake until dry and crisp on edges, about 30 minutes. • Remove from oven and spread a thin layer of goat cheese over crust. Arrange cherry tomatoes and sun-dried tomatoes on top of the cheese. Return to oven for 5 to 10 minutes longer, until the cheese is softened and tomatoes are heated through. Before serving, remove the sides from the tart pan and sprinkle top with basil and a drizzle of olive oil.

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December 2014

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Dine Locally on Sustainable and Organic Fare by Eileen Weber

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ocal, organic and sustainable are not just buzzwords. Consumers have become savvier and more aware of the foods they put on their plates. That doesn’t stop at the restaurant door and restaurant owners are very aware of that. In this year’s Top 20 Food Trends for 2014 from the National Restaurant Association, locally sourced, organic and sustainable were listed as their top three choices. The concept of “locally grown” is no stranger in Fairfield County. In the last decade alone, residents have supported their local farms by shopping at farmer’s markets or joining CSAs. In many cases, they’ve gone a step further by growing their own organic vegetables and raising backyard chickens and bees. There is an environmental aspect as well—shipping. Of the 1,300 chefs

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interviewed by the National Restaurant Association for their 2014 trends list, nearly 40 percent believed environmental sustainability will continue to be a culinary trend. Fresh produce trucked from thousands of miles away isn’t really “fresh.” But when a box of Swiss chard arrives from a local farm, it was more than likely picked that same day. At Elm (ElmRestaurant.com) in New Canaan, they source much of their ingredients from Millstone Farm (MillstoneFarm.org) in neighboring Wilton. They get their hormone-free, pasture-raised meats from them as well as fresh produce. That kind of attention to good, clean food is attractive. But, for many people, a shrewd focus on ingredients is necessary, not just trendy. The rise of gluten-free products has soared be-

cause of chronic conditions like celiac disease. Increasingly, consumers want to eat healthy and stay away from processed foods. “With all the diseases and health issues that people have been experiencing,” said Eli Hawli, co-owner of Market Place Kitchen and Bar (MarketPlaceDanbury.com), farm-to-table restaurants in Danbury and Woodbury (MarketPlaceWoodbury.com). “I think they realize they need a better approach to what and how they eat.” Rex Bobo of Savor Healthy Pizza (SavorHealthyPizza. com) in Norwalk couldn’t agree more. He says he is one of the only pizza places in the area that doesn’t use any white flour. In fact, his biggest seller is grain-free pizza handmade with almond and flaxseed flour. Originally offered as a specialty item, it is now his most popular one. “We don’t order processed foods from other places. I make all of this stuff myself every day,” he said. “We have to be educated when it comes to food. People want to get something quick because they’re busy, but they know nothing about nutrition.” Breno Donatti, general manager at Bistro 7 (Bistro7Wilton.com) in Wilton, says his customers have a food “consciousness.” His restaurant serves local, organic and sustainable foods, much of which comes from farms only a few miles away. One of his earliest suppliers was Jonathan Kirschner at Ambler Farm (AmblerFarm.org), also in Wilton. Donatti didn’t have to seek out the farmer; the farmer came to him. “One day this guy walked in—disheveled and covered in dirt,” said Donatti. “He asked me if I wanted some fresh produce. I said, ‘Sure!’ He’s really easy to work with and he got me connected. It’s really about having a great relationship with your farmer.” Another great source for Donatti was Donna Simons of Pound Ridge Organics (Facebook.com/PoundRidgeOrganics) in Pound Ridge, New York. Calling herself a “food warrior,” Simons says she doesn’t just supply food; she educates. Simons acts as the liaison between the farmer and the consumer. She has 400 members in her food co-op and she’s currently working with two restaurants—Bistro 7 and JeanGeorges Vongerichten’s recently renovated The Inn at Pound Ridge (TheInnatPoundRidge.com). As Simons puts it, both restaurants really get the concept of local. If certain items aren’t in season, the menu has to reflect that. She says that’s a concept a lot of chefs decide to not embrace. This year, for example, the growing season was off by about two or three weeks because of the cold spring. That caused the strawberry season to be short and meager. The apples this fall have not fared any better. But you still see dishes listed on menus that coordinate with what the season should be, not what it is. Simons takes it a step further by saying that just because something comes from a farm doesn’t necessarily mean it’s pesticide or hormone-free. “Just because it’s from a farm, doesn’t mean it’s ‘clean’,” she stated. “It’s great buying local, but it’s even better buying organic local.” The average consumer concurs. According to the Organic Trade Association’s “2013 U.S. Families’ Organic Attitudes

and Beliefs Study,” 81 percent of U.S. families buy organic foods at least sometimes. New entrants to buying organic represent 41 percent of all families, indicating an increasing recognition of the health and environmental benefits of organic food and farming. Chris Molyneux, the executive chef at Parallel Post (ParallelPostRestaurant.com) in Trumbull, says customers often don’t see the big picture. He sources his seafood locally from Norm Bloom & Sons (CoppsIslandOysters.com) in Norwalk, his coffee from Shearwater Organic Coffee Roasters (ShearwaterCoffeeRoasters.com) in Trumbull, and his pasture-raised, antibiotic and hormone-free meats from Ox Hollow Farm (OxHollowFarmCT.com) in Roxbury. Molyneux makes a clear point about the farm-to-table concept: follow the food chain. Great ingredients take time to grow and cultivate. The people who make the food are getting paid, and so is the farmer. “There’s definitely staying power to this food trend,” he said. “There’s enough farm land in Connecticut to feed the population of Connecticut. Up to now, there were farmers who were leaving some of their fields fallow because the upkeep was too expensive. Now they’re selling to more restaurants and that’s changing.” That was a stumbling block for Meredith Mulhearn of Ridgefield. As a nutritionist and owner of Cucumber and Chamomile (CucumberandChamomile.com), she tried to kickstart a food movement by getting restaurants in her town on board with her “Eat Well Ridgefield” initiative. The concept was to have restaurants label on their menus what was healthy, organic, local and sustainable. Mulhearn suggested a sticker in the restaurant window would let diners know which restaurants participated. Unfortunately, the area restaurants didn’t find the idea as appealing as she did. Many chefs felt that if they labeled some of the items on the menu as healthy it would imply that the other items were unhealthy. They also didn’t want to go through the effort of labeling their menus. So far, this has prevented Mulhearn from snowballing the project. Like so many people, she came to the field of nutrition honestly—she had health issues. Suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia, medications didn’t seem to work for her. “I just couldn’t get out of bed,” Mulhearn explained. “All the alternative therapies—all the other options—they just ran out. Food was the only thing left.” Out of desperation, she changed her diet. Slowly but surely by eating “clean,” she began to feel much better. Her energy was up. She slept better. She didn’t feel bad anymore. That’s when she realized she was on to something. “I’m proof positive that food is healing,” she said. “I’m on a mission to help other people do the same thing.” The big message is what we eat makes a difference in how we feel. Being healthy isn’t a trend. It’s a lifestyle. Eileen Weber is a Fairfield-based freelance writer with a master’s degree in journalism and a professional background in publishing. She has written numerous articles for magazines, newspapers, newsletters and websites, including the Fairfield Green Food Guide. eNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2014

consciouseating

HAPPY FEASTING TO ALL

Tasty Rituals that Deepen the Holiday Spirit

Connect

“Food connects us with one another, our heritage and our culture,” says May. Heather Evans, Ph.D., a Queen’s University professor and a holiday culinary history expert in Ontario, Canada, suggests creating a food diary of traditions to reinforce a connection with the past and support a holiday food legacy for the future. Ask grandparents about their childhood culinary memories, peruse family recipe books or discover new dishes that honor everyone’s ethnic heritage. Then create an heirloom holiday cookbook with handwritten recipes arranged alongside favorite photos and stories.

by Lane Vail

he holiday season is ripe with an array of spiritual, cultural and family rituals. We celebrate, reflect, give gifts and, of course, feast. Fortunately, the media also teems with tips on how to avoid high-calorie holiday goodies, says Dr. Michelle May, author of Eat What You Love, Love What You Eat. For our diet-driven culture to resolve its struggle with food, she says we must learn to honor its intrinsic value. Ritualized eating can help; a recent study published in the journal Psychological Science found that engaging in food rituals evokes mindfulness that enhances the enjoyment of eating.

Pause

Hunger, the body’s fuel gauge, manifests in physical symptoms like a growling stomach or low blood sugar, says May, citing a useful analogy. “You wouldn’t drive around and pull into every gas station you see; you’d check your fuel gauge first. Before filling up with food, pause and check your fuel gauge. Am I actually hungry, or is this desire coming from something else?” May suggests practicing FEASTing: First, focus on physical sensations, thoughts and emotions; perhaps we’re thirsty, rather than hungry, rationalizing that holiday foods are special, or feeling stressed or lonely. Next, explore why the feelings or thoughts are present, and 60

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then accept them without judgment. Strategize ways of satisfying the need and take a small step toward change.

Savor

Complex preparations for a major holiday can provoke anxiety and impatience, and likewise, feelings of longing or disappointment when it’s over. Sarah Ban Breathnach, bestselling author of Simple Abundance and Peace and Plenty, recommends allowing Christmastide to unfold at its own pace and celebrating all of December with a homemade Advent calendar. Craft a tree-shaped tower of tiny boxes or a garland of burlap mini-bags clipped with clothespins. Place an almond covered in organic dark chocolate in each container and use the treat as a daily mini-meditation. “Drop into the present moment, fully savor the luxurious, small bite and experience the pleasure of eating,” suggests May. Consider it symbolic of the season’s sweetness.

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A Revitalizing Ritual for the New Year Start the new year with a tabula rasa (clean slate) by hosting a New Year’s Eve Good Riddance Tea Party. Gather family and friends over warm ginger tea, spiced apple cider, hot chocolate and festive finger foods. Guests write down on slips of paper any mistakes, disappointments, regrets, hurts or failings they wish to be forgiven or forgotten. One by one, put them into a crackling fireplace or bonfire to symbolize surrendering of the past. “This ties the heart strings in a comforting bow,” comments author Sarah Ban Breathnach. Then, inscribe fresh intentions for the year to come and tuck them away in a special place. “This is the most mystical part, because so many prayers get answered,” Ban Breathnach says. Lastly, toast the new year with optimism and joy.

Sync

According to pagan philosophy, sharing seasonal food with loved ones during the winter solstice on December 21 symbolizes the shared trust that warmth and sunlight will return. Eating warm foods provides physical comfort and eating seasonally and locally connects us to the Earth, observes May. Sync body and spirit with the season by stewing root vegetables, baking breads, sipping hot cider and tea, and nibbling on nuts and dried fruits. “The repetition of predictable foods is reassuring,” remarks Evans, and it celebrates nature’s transitions.

Play

Stir-Up Sunday is a Victorian amusement filled with fun, mystery and mind-

fulness, says Ban Breathnach. Some December Sunday, have each family member help stir the batter of a special Christmas cake while stating a personal new year’s intention. Drop a clean coin, bean or trinket into the mix and bake. Serve it with a sprig of holly on Christmas Day, and the person with the piece containing the lucky charm will be rewarded with a prosperous, wholesome and positive new year, according to tradition. Evans remarks, “This is a wonderful ritual for nurturing the health and spirit of the family.”

Give

Boxing Day offers something far more meaningful to celebrate than postholiday sales. Originating as a tradition that thrived during the 19th century,

HEALTHY HOLIDAY TOPPERS Creating a repertoire of delicious wintery foods can help evoke health, mindfulness and delight during the holiday season. Dr. Michelle May advises approaching the entire process of eating, including the menu planning, shopping and food preparation, with a spirit of mindfulness, which adds a deeper dimension of pleasure to the experience. “Cake becomes more than just cake,” she says. “It becomes something the family creates and enjoys together.” Savor these rituals and recipes with loved ones.

Memory-Making Christmas Cake

This nontraditional, healthy Christmas cake is alcohol-, sugar- and gluten-free. It relies on fruit for sweetness, almond meal for moistness and vanilla, cinna-

“December 26 was a chance for landowners and homeowners to give back to household staff and local tradespeople,” says Evans. “It’s a tradition worth reviving to pause, reflect on our own good fortune and contribute to others’ comfort.” Consider serving a meal at a local soup kitchen, collecting items for a food drive or offering a box of healthy culinary treats to community stewards at a fire station, post office or library. On Christmas Day, says Ban Breathnach, “Our kids have the world lying at their feet.” Boxing Day, she says, provides a natural transition to reach out in charity. Lane Vail is a freelance writer and blogger at DiscoveringHomemaking.com. 2 cups ground almonds (almond flour) ¼ cup (50 gm) walnuts

mon, nutmeg and orange essences for a perfect mingling of flavors. Prepare the cake with the whole family as a Stir-Up Sunday ritual, and keep it tightly sealed in the refrigerator until Christmas Day. Serve in small portions at room temperature or warmed in the oven and alongside vanilla bean custard or plain yogurt swirled with orange blossom honey.

Preheat the oven to 300° F. Line the sides and base of a 7-inch round cake tin with parchment paper. Combine the dried fruit, spices, vanilla, orange zest and juice, olive oil and eggs. Mix in the almond flour and walnuts, then spoon the batter into the baking tin. Bake for an hour-and-a-half. Insert a skewer or toothpick to see if it comes Yields 20 servings out moist, but clean; if not, bake for up to 30 minutes more. (Cover the top if 2½ cups (600 grams) mixed and chopped necessary to prevent over-browning.) dried fruit (raisins, prunes, figs, apricots, After cooling, remove from the tin currants, sultanas and/or dates) and store in an airtight container in the 1 tsp ground cinnamon fridge for up to one month. ¼ tsp nutmeg 1 tsp vanilla bean extract Courtesy of Teresa Cutter, author Zest and juice from 1 organic orange of The 80/20 Diet and founder of 3 Tbsp olive oil TheHealthyChef.com. 3 organic free-range eggs

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The Perfect Custard

Yields 6 servings A velvety-smooth custard, also called crème anglaise, may be used as a foundation of many desserts. It can be flavored with cinnamon, nutmeg, chocolate, citrus, coffee or pistachio. Pour this vanilla bean custard over a warm Christmas cake or serve it straight up as eggnog, adding a touch of brandy and dusting of nutmeg. 2 cups milk of choice (organic, almond, coconut, soy or rice) 2 organic free-range eggs 2 tsp vanilla bean extract 2 Tbsp organic maple syrup or 1 Tbsp honey 1 Tbsp cornflour or kudzu Pinch nutmeg Heat milk in a saucepan with vanilla and honey and bring to near boiling, then remove from heat. Beat eggs and cornflour in a stainless steel mixing bowl until combined. Pour the hot milk over the eggs and whisk in well. Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan and cook over a gentle heat, stirring with a wooden spoon until it thickens and coats the back of the spoon.

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Remove from the heat quickly and pour back into the mixing bowl. Whisk well to slightly cool and smooth it out. If any lumps appear, strain the mixture through a sieve. Serve hot or cold. To warm up cold custard, put in a bowl set over a pan of simmering water; stir and heat through gently. NOTE: For an egg-free custard, heat 17 oz almond milk with 2 Tbsp honey or 100 percent maple syrup and 2 tsp vanilla extract until near boiling. Thicken with a slurry made from 2 Tbsp cornflour, arrowroot or kudzu. Finish with a

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sprinkling of nutmeg. Courtesy of Teresa Cutter, author of The 80/20 Diet and founder of TheHealthyChef.com.

Melody Moonlight’s Magical Monster Loving Potion Yields 4 servings Melody Moonlight’s story, which birthed the potion 32 oz apple juice ½ cup dried holy basil leaf 2 Tbsp dried orange peel 2 Tbsp dried rosemary 1½ Tbsp crushed cardamom 1½ Tbsp dried ginger root 1 Tbsp dried peppermint leaves ½ Tbsp ground nutmeg 1½ cinnamon sticks 13 drops each of essences of chicory flower, beech flower and rose quartz (all available at natural grocers) In a large pot, bring the apple juice to a near boil. Add all the other ingredients and turn off the heat. Read Melody Moonlight’s story at Tinyurl.com/LovePotionStory to infuse it all with magic and meaning. Courtesy of Andy Bottagaro, potion maker at Shine Restaurant & Gathering Place, in Boulder, CO.

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December 2014

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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.

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December 2014

wisewords

Opening Up to Miracles Gabrielle Bernstein on Creating More Happiness by April Thompson

otivational speaker and bestselling author Gabrielle Bernstein knows the gravitational pull of addiction firsthand. Although introduced to spiritual practices from an early age, she turned away from that upbringing in her 20s, pulled instead into a vortex of drugs, alcohol and unhealthy relationships while running a public relations firm promoting Manhattan nightclubs. After hitting rock bottom at age 25, Bernstein made the unwavering decision to seek spiritual help and change her life. The entrepreneurial young woman found her groove as a spiritual teacher, introducing millions to new ways of thinking and living through her books, lectures, blogs and videos. Her nononsense approach to spirituality and knack for making practices like meditation and prayer accessible to beginners and cynics have attracted a new generation of seekers. Bernstein’s latest book, Miracles Now:108 Life-Changing Tools for Less Stress, More Flow, and Finding Your True Purpose, offers simple, yet powerful tips to short-circuit unhealthy thought patterns and take a shortcut to transformational change.

Why do you reframe a miracle as simply a shift in perception? Shifting your perception and choosing again is a core principle from A Course in Miracles, a metaphysical text that I study and teach from. When you choose 66

Fairfield County Edition

to reorganize your belief system and align it with a loving, forgiving perspective, rather than a fear-based reality, that’s when miracles can happen.

Some people shift away from a harmful relationship with addictive drugs and alcohol like you did, while others take such unhealthy behaviors to the grave; what makes the difference? Often when we get caught in unhealthy behavior, we aren’t willing to ask for help. I think the reason I was able to leave those behaviors behind and create a new path was my willingness to live a different way. I was able to witness my life and see that it wasn’t working. It’s an ongoing process; I’ve been on my current path of turning to spiritual principles for many years, but I’m still constantly working to apply them throughout my moment-tomoment experiences.

How does meditation help create radical change? I think meditation is a key tool for health, happiness and well-being. It can help reorganize the nervous system, lower stress levels, calm the mind and recalibrate energy. It can help us experience more synchronicity in our lives and a greater sense of interconnectedness, as well.

natural awakenings

What do you struggle with the most and what personal miracle are you still trying to realize? I’m in constant conversation with myself over my thoughts and beliefs about judgment and separation. People are programmed by society to believe we are separate and to judge ourselves and others. My practice suggests a reinterpretation of that general belief system in order to perceive things differently. I also try to forgive limiting thoughts I was holding onto; for example, judging myself for not performing well at a lecture. Talking too much in conversations is a big challenge for me. A practice in my Miracles Now book called WAIT, for “Why am I talking?” reminds me to notice when I’m saying too much, commenting unnecessarily or not supporting the greater good.

How do you think about money, and has that proven helpful in broader terms? I believe that we have the power to attract healthier relationships in our financial circumstances in the same way that we have the power to attract healthier relationships with people in our lives. Some people think that you can’t both be spiritual and secure financial abundance; I think that’s nonsense. When you start to reorganize your beliefs around your self-worth and capacity to earn, and open up to your intuitive voice and the creative possibilities for earning, then your financial situation can change dramatically. I have lived that principle fully. I was brought up in a poverty mindset, but with a shift in perception, I was able to release my fears of financial insecurity.

Do you have a go-to practice that you reach for first when faced with a difficult situation? When I’m faced with a complicated situation or feeling powerless, I say a prayer in stillness. Such a practice asks through prayer and listens through meditation. It’s in that stillness that I can hear the voice of intuition and the voice of forgiveness, and love can come forward. Connect with freelance writer April Thompson at AprilWrites.com.

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

The Best Winter Weather Recipe For Weight Loss and Detox

“A NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION YOU CAN KEEP”

DRS2HEALTH Personalized Cleanse & Weight Loss Challenge TEA-SOUP-SALAD

Thursday, Jan 15 • 3:30-7:30pm

MONDAY, DECEMBER 1 Aromatherapy Essentials – 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 as alternatives for toxic cleaning products, home remedies and first aid helpers. $40. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 2 Natural Ways to CHANGE Brain Functioning – 7-8:30pm. With Deb Bossio and Roseann CapannaHodge. Discuss supplements and herbs, and learn 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 office 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 very deep relaxation. Experience a series of floor poses that will open the body, release tension and storedup 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.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3 Grand Opening for Align Chiropractic – 4-6pm. With Dr. Christopher Cerrato. Presentation on the effectiveness of the precision chiropractic procedure called Upper Cervical Specific effective for treating such health conditions as headaches, neck pain, asthma, digestive issues, multiple sclerosis, ADHD

and much more. Ribbon cutting ceremony. Food and drinks will be served. Space limited. 203-8318800. 153 East Avenue, Ste 26, Norwalk. Info@ Align-CC.com. Introduction to Reiki – 7-8:30pm. With Beth Prins Leas. This is a great place to start if you’re curious about Reiki or interested in learning more about how to heal yourself and others. Beth 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. Workshop: Manifesting your Perfect Life – 7-9pm. With Eva Archer Smith. Opportunity to come together, engage in meaningful conversation and explore topics that heighten our sense of awareness and satisfaction in life. Donations welcome. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. 203-874-4252. Info@Learn.edu. Learn.edu/Events.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4 TLC Healing Circle – 7-9pm. With Beth Prins Leas. Fun, experiential evening for both curious first-timers and practitioners of all modalities and levels. Healing circle meditation and then everyone will have the opportunity to give/receive minisessions. Open to all. $20 donation. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@ BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6 Reiki I Certification Training – 9am-2pm. With Beth Leas. Learn this ancient healing modality using gentle touch to accelerate and support the body’s natural healing process on all levels. Facilitate healing in yourself and others. Beth is a Reiki Master and teacher for over 20 years. $245. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas. com. BethLeas.com.

145 Grassy Plain St. Bethel, CT

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

239 Plattsville Rd, Trumbull

For personalized recipe and cooking demonstration using the finest Jamaican herbs and spices.

Registration Required: Call 203-374-5309 COST: $40 • DRS2HEALTH.com 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, two 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. Lotus Holiday Sale & Celebration – 10am-6pm. Artists on site with unique and conscious gifts. Practitioners will offer 20 minute sessions in sound healing, numerology readings, spiritual counseling and Ayurvedic lifestyle empowerment. Gift certificates available. Enjoy hot apple cider, tea and holiday goodies. No entry fee. All welcome. The Lotus Wellness Center, 46 Pemberwick Rd, Greenwich. 203-531 4784. Info@LotusWellnessCtr.com. Spiritual Psychic and Healing Fair – 12-5pm. Come and receive a reading with one of our gifted and caring intuitives. Mediumship, tarot cards, angel cards, pendulum and astrology sessions approx. 25 mins. Reiki healing available for people and animals. No appointments. All welcome. $40/and up readings, $20/reiki healing. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. Info@AlbertsonChurch.org. AlbertsonChurch.org. The Six Healing Sounds of Qi gong: A Taoist Practice to Heal the Body Through Sound & Movement – 3-5pm. With Julie Moffat. Gentle Qi gong warm-ups as well as flowing forms will move the body to release pain and invite in new

Massage Therapy

The Gift of Relaxation Specializing in: Swedish • Pregnancy • Injury • Infant Trigger Point • CranioSacral Therapy

Robin Ordan, LMT 203-561-8535

www.robinordanlmt.com Located on the Old Greenwich/Stamford Border eNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2014

vital energy. Bring a water bottle and pen for notes. $35/by 11/29, $45/thereafter. Yoga for Everybody, 27 Unquowa Rd, Fairfield. Info@Yoga4Everybody. net. Yoga4Everybody.net. Presenting a Very Rare Experiential Group Healing at Saltana Cave – 6-8pm. With Gene Krackehl, Energy Healer. Group healing will guide attendees through a cleansing journey of the chakra system. Let go of past fears, anxieties and heartbreak. The cave itself will become a very special part of this unique and sacred experience. 590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield. 203-969-4327. SaltanaCave.com. Swingin’ in a Winter Wonderland with Chuck Sweeney as Miss Peggy Lee – 7-8:15pm. Back by popular demand! Chuck Sweeney returns with his take on the late, great Miss Peggy Lee. $20. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@UnityCenterPs.org. UnityCenterPs.org.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7 TLC Healing & Psychic Sunday – 11am-4pm. This popular and fun event features a day of insight, clarity and healing brought to you by the professionals at TLC Center in Norwalk. A wide variety of healing and readings, free admission and mini-workshops. Readings and healing: 20 minutes/$20. Free. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. TLCCenter.com. IAM® Integrated Amrita Meditation Technique (The Hugging Saint) – 11:30am. Workshop. Pre-registration and payment is required to hold your space. $10. SOUND Center for Creative Arts and Mindfulness, 31 Hawleyville Rd, Newtown. 203-270-1119. Office@SoundCenterArts.com. SoundCenterArts.com. Astrology-Predicting the Future 2015 – 1-3:30pm. With Rev. Tom Kearns. Astrology workshop - Predicting Your Future in 2015. After life’s challenges of the past few years it’s time to explore new opportunities that will come through the transits of Saturn and Jupiter. $30. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. Info@AlbertsonChurch.org. AlbertsonChurch.org.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9 Women’s Health, TCM and Acupuncture – 7-8:30pm. With Jody Eisemann, Licensed Acupuncturist. Jody 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. Free. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-216-2548. JE@AffordableAcupunctureCT. com. AcupunctureHealingCT.com.

Awakening the Hidden Storyteller: Discovering your Natural Storytelling Abilities – 6-8pm. With Robin Moore, National Storyteller of the Year. Workshop. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. 203-874-4252. Info@Learn.edu. Learn.edu/Events.

Mom’s Movement Night – 7-8:30pm. Come for inspirational conversation and gentle movement. Take a break from the long to-do list to spend an evening in sweet sisterhood. Bring a yoga mat and wear comfortable clothes. Presented by Joni Lowe, Creator of Molten Motion. Free. The offices of Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ste #6, Ridgefield. 203-438-4848. DrRoseannInfo@ att.net. DrRoseann.com.

Healing with the Angels Workshop in the Cave - 6:30-8:30pm. With Deana Paqua. Angels are all around us, waiting for us to call on them to help with all aspects of our lives: health, career, relationships, finances and more. Angels are Divine messengers who can bring guidance, healing, grace and sometimes even miracles into everyday life. Saltana Cave, 590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield. 203-969-4327. SaltanaCave.com.

Emotional Well-being and Holistic Health: The Best of the East and West – 7-9pm. With Enrico Cheli. Are you seeking greater satisfaction and balance in life? Donations welcome. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. 203-874-4252. Info@Learn.edu. Learn.edu/Events.

New Haven Chapter of the Holistic Chamber of Commerce Monthly Meeting – 6:30-8:30pm. Please RSVP. Free. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. NewHaven@HolisticChamber OfCommerce.com. Learn.edu/Events.

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 a personal body oil blend to take home. $25 (plus $10 for supplies payable to Deb at the workshop). Trumbull, 72 Strobel Rd, Trumbull. Deb@MyOmWellness.com. MyOMWellness.com.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10 Reiki Questions & Answer Session – 7-9:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher (19 years). 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@ snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11 Open Meditation Circle – 9:30-11am. With Maria DiFolco. Explore meditation practices from many different cultures, setting intentions for the day, receiving healing, releasing tension, managing pain and a renewed sense of well-being. Beginners and seasoned meditators welcome. Reservations Required. $25. 46 Pemberwick Rd, Greenwich. 203-531-4784. Info@LotusWellnessCtr.com.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12 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. Journey Dance to Live Drums! – 7:30-9pm. With Joanne Keane and Rick and Cynthia Quintanal of Crystal Cymbalogy. Begin with gentle yoga like movement and work our way up to a full-on tribal jam, ending in a healing transformative sound bath while in savasana. No prior experience required. $30/by 12/5, $35/thereafter, $20/students. Yoga for Everybody, 27 Unquowa Rd, Fairfield. Info@ Yoga4Everybody.net. Yoga4Everybody.net.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13 Reiki II Certification Training – 9am-2pm. With Beth Prins Leas. Learn long distance healing and three symbols to deepen your understanding of Reiki. Beth’s unique teaching style and 20+ years experience offers a balanced and grounded approach to incorporating the necessary skills into your practice. Small, personalized and experiential class. $345. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-8569566. Beth@BethLeas.com. BethLeas.com.

Hunter Healing Hands For Body, Mind, & Soul

Classes Workshops Drum Circles Reiki Shares Private Healing Sessions by Appointment

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

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

Connecting Circle and Workshops – 10:30am. With Cynthia Russell, PhD. Multiple workshops available plus holiday sales and fundraiser for Wounded Warriors. $20/suggested fee for each workshop. Reservations required, sliding scale and work swaps available. Act II Counseling & Synthesis Programs. Stratford Center, 2225 Main St, Stratford. 203-377-2421. Psynnie@aol.com. Release, Recharge, Rejoice! Conscious Rebirthing Workshop – 3-6pm. With Anne Novak Heal. Kundalini Yoga transforms blocks into steppingstones for moving forward on the soul’s journey with clarity, vitality and enthusiasm! Join us for this Conscious Rebirthing experience and claim your birthright - happiness and fulfillment of your life’s purpose. $40/by 12/6, $50/thereafter. Yoga for Everybody, 27 Unquowa Rd, Fairfield. Info@ Yoga4Everybody.net. Yoga4Everybody.net. Crystal Cymbalogy – 6-7:30pm. The music Cynthia and Rick make is a combination of the energies present in the venue, the crystal bowls, and the people who attend. The audience is also an active participant in the energy they bring with their presence. Saltana Cave, 590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield. 203-969-4327. SaltanaCave.com. Healing Vibrations: A Journey Inward – 7-8:30pm. Combination of Reiki and sound healing to enhance emotional, physical, mental and spiritual well-being and balance. Powerful Reiki healing energy is magnified by the sound waves and vibrations of drums and crystal bowls. Also, chanting, guided meditation, and messages from the angels. $30. ARC Sacred Center, 458 Monroe Tnpke, Monroe. HealingVibrationsJourney@gmail. com. ArcSacredCenter.org.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14 Circle, Prayer Basket, Guided Imagery, Writing Workshops – 12pm. With Cynthia Russell, Rosalind Till. Includes gift exchange (items under $5 or used), chair massage ($10) and brown bag lunch. $20/suggested fee for each workshop. Reservations required, sliding scale and work swaps available. Act II Counseling & Synthesis Programs, Stratford Center, 2225 Main St, Stratford. 203-377-2421. Psynnie@aol.com. The Art of Gentleness – 3-5:30pm. With Matan Cohen-Citron. Workshop explores the importance of developing gentleness in practice. Discuss why gentleness is an important tool for transforming habitual behaviors, fears and arrogance, and how it helps to develop compassion. Includes gentle and restorative asana practice with pranayama and meditation. All welcome. $40/by 12/7, $50/thereafter. Yoga for Everybody, 27 Unquowa Rd, Fairfield. Info@Yoga4Everybody.net. Yoga4Everybody.net.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 15 TLC Winter Festival Open House and Candlelight Meditation – 4-9pm. As the outer world moves in a holiday flurry, the TLC Community offers minienergy balancing sessions, massages and tarot readings as well as last minute gifts and gift certificates. Come and browse and support local practitioners and artists. All TLC Gift Certificates will be 50%. Candlelight Meditation from 7-8:30pm. Free. TLC

Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. TLCCenter.com.

TUEDAY, DECEMBER 16 Freedom from the Past, Beginning Anew – 7-9pm. With Robin Spiegel and Anthony Smokovich. An opportunity to connect with meditation, sound healing, dyads and more as we release the past that no longer serves us, transforming from a place of fear and separation to choose openness, forgiveness, clarity and freedom. Safe, non-judgmental, loving environment. Reservations required. $40. 46 Pemberwick Rd, Greenwich. 203-531-4784. Info@ LotusWellnessCtr.com.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17 Spiritual Healing Service – 7-8pm. Service begins with a guided meditation followed by the opportunity for everyone to receive hands-on-shoulders energy healing. All are welcome to sit in the peaceful sanctuary and leave behind the cares of the day. Free. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. Info@AlbertsonChurch.org. AlbertsonChurch.org.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18 Joseph Campbell Mythological Roundtable – 6:30-8:30pm. Please RSVP. Donations recommended. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. Marta@MartaKoonz.com. Learn.edu/Events.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 27 Kirtan in the Cave – 6:30-8pm. Join Sita’s Light on a journey through the sacred mantra sounds of ancient India. Call and response group chanting creates a unique and unforgettable evening of sound and spirit. Kirtan (chanting) is a meditative practice that opens the heart and brings great joy and peace. The cave itself will become a part of this experience, creating a very special healing space and feeling for this beautiful practice. Saltana Cave, 590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield. 203-969-4327. SaltanaCave.com.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 28 Guided Relaxation with Healing Gong – 3-5pm. Clear stuck energy and rejuvenate your body, mind, and spirit with some very gentle stretching, a sweet guided deep relaxation with healing tibetan and crystal bowls, followed by a gong bath. All welcome. $25. Kaia Yoga Westport, 1200 Post Rd East, Westport. 203856-5299. Alex@AlexNason.com. KaiaYoga.com.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 4 Guided Relaxation with Healing Gong – 1:30-3:30pm. Clear stuck energy and rejuvenate your body, mind, and spirit with some very gentle stretching, a sweet guided deep relaxation with healing tibetan and crystal bowls, followed by a gong bath. All welcome. $25. Dew Yoga, 123 High Ridge Rd, Stamford. 203856-5299. Alex@AlexNason.com. DewYoga.net.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 19 Reiki Second Degree workshop – 10am-5pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher (19 years). Learn Reiki 2nd 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. Two manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, (enter office downstairs in back), Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@ snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21 Winter Solstice Bliss: A Yoga - Sacred Music Sound Healing Event – 4pm. Come take a little time off from your holiday planning to bask in the powerful energy of SOUND’s beautiful sacred space. Pre-registration required. $25/prepaid, $30/ day of event. SOUND Center for Creative Arts and Mindfulness, 31 Hawleyville Rd, Newtown. 203-270-1119. Office@SoundCenterArts.com. SoundCenterArts.com.

If you haven’t

got any charity in your heart, you have the worst kind of heart trouble. ~Bob Hope

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 24 Candlelight Christmas Eve Service – 6-7:15pm. Join us for a special candlelight Christmas Eve Service. Love Offering. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@ UnityCenterPs.org. UnityCenterPs.org.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

December 2014

ongoingevents sunday

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 four 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. InTheSpiritOfLife.com. 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 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 faith s develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org. 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 offering. 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) – First and third 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. ReddingMeditation.org.

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. 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. 203-270-8220. SticksAndStonesFarm.com. Iyengar Yoga: 45+ Better – 6:30-8pm. with Gwynneth Powell Sobejko, Certified Iyengar Yoga Teacher. Perfect for those new to yoga, and those working with limitations and for those who want to delve deeper into their practice. Bring a sweater for relaxation. $20/drop-in, $120/pre-paid 8-week series. Sticks and Stones Farm, 201 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown. 203-767-3414. Gsobejko@gmail. com. SticksAndStonesFarm.com.

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. Fourth Monday. With JoAnn Inserra 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. TurningPointReiki.com.

tuesday TLC Monthly Networking Breakfast – 8:30am. First Tuesday. 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. 203-856-9566. Beth@BethLeas.com. TLCCenter.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.

Pranotthan Yoga Classes – 9-10:15am. For all levels of fitness. Begin from where you are and move towards improvement. A simple, powerful way to support your healthy lifestyle. $120/8-classes, $20/drop-in. Transformation for Life, 80 North St, Danbury. 203-617-8228. Jill.Myruski@gmail.com. LiveYourTransformation.com.

Mahasati 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 faith s develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

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.

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.

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.

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. Meets in Norwalk. Limitless-Potential.net. 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.

natural awakenings

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 vin-

yasa flow yoga. $20/drop-in, 4/$68 or 8/$120. Call 914-393-9221. Limitless-Potential.net. Mahasati 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 faith s develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org. 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 sessions. Wellspring Counseling Services, Middlebury, 850 Straits Tpke, 2nd flr, Middlebury. 203-758-2296. WellSpring.org. Angelic Healing Group—7-9pm. First Tuesday. Experience the healing energy of the Angelic Realm. Your energy body will be infused with the love and light of the Divine through meditation and hands-on touch. $20. Stevens Memorial Church, 8 Shady Ln, South Salem, NY. 203-438-4893. Reiki Shares – 7:30-10:15pm. First and third Tuesdays. Gigi Benanti Usui/Karuna Reiki Master/ Teacher. For Reiki practitioners only. Exchange ongoing since 1996. Instructions included. $20. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. Pre-register: 203-852-1150.

wednesday Core Yoga – 9:30-10:30am. A class designed to strengthen your core and deepen your practice. With emphasis on proper alignment this class moves slowly through basic postures in challenging ways. Great for beginners or experienced yogis looking to build strength and reduce stress. $17/ drop-in, $150/10-Class card. The Graceful Planet, 7 Berkshire Rd, Sandy Hook. 203-426-8215. Kat@ GracefulPlanet.com. GracefulPlanet.com. Kripalu Yoga – 9:45-11am. w/Erica Tetro-Langer. The Kripalu approach is that of a compassionate practice to challenge, empower, and nurture the body, to cultivate a compassionate self-awareness, to foster a clear and steady mind, and to heighten consciousness and connectedness in daily living. All levels welcome. $20/drop-in, $140/pre-paid 8-week series. Sticks and Stones Farm, 201 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown. 203-270-8820. ETetro2@yahoo.com. SticksAndStonesFarm.com. Baron Baptiste Power Yoga – 6-7:15pm. Join us for a fun evening of sweating it up with a Baron Baptiste inspired Power Yoga class. Come early, and go for a walking meditation in the Labyrinth. $20/drop-in, discounts on 10 class card. Sticks and Stones Farm, 201 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown. 203-270-8820. DesreTarr@gmail.com. SticksAndStonesFarm.com.

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. Albertson Church Healing Service – 7-8pm. Third 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. 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 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 faith s develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org. 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. First 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: 203-426-9448. SacredGrounds.bz. TrinityProduction.org. Holistic Moms Network Fairfield County, CT Chapter – 7:30pm. Second Wednesday. Associates in Family Chiropractic & Natural Health Care, 156 East Ave, Norwalk. Home.Homewebs.com/ HmnFairfieldCtyCT. Turning Point S.H.A.R.E. Divorce Group – 7:30-9:30pm. Third Wednesdays. Offering support, healing, advocacy, resources and education for women in the process of, or recently divorced. 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 Kripalu Yoga – 9:30-10:30am. With Kat Barton, 500-hour professional Kripalu teacher. Focus on breath and be present. Class is suitable for all levels and will start whereever you are. This class will help center you and relax. $17/drop-in, $150/10-Class card. The Graceful Planet, 7 Berkshire Rd, Sandy Hook. 203-426-8215. Kat@GracefulPlanet.com. GracefulPlanet.com.

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 selfhelp tool using tapping on meridian acupressure points. No experience necessary. $10. Location given with RSVP, near Merritt, Weston. 203-2471318. Robin@RobinFriedman.net. EnergyTools ForDailyLiving.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. First 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. Fourth 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. Space is limited. Ridgefield. 203-438-4893,

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December 2014

ongoingevents

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.

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. 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.

Yoga & Pilates – 8:30-10am. Fun class combining yoga and pilates. In this class we play with all the toys - using bands, blocks, balls and light weights for a complete workout. Lengthen and tone and end with a restorative relaxation. $17/drop-in, $150/10-Class card. The Graceful Planet, 7 Berkshire Rd, Sandy Hook. 203-426-8215. Kat@GracefulPlanet.com. GracefulPlanet.com. Community Yoga by Donation – 9-10:15am. Enjoy a 75-minute vinyasa flow yoga practice suitable for all levels with 200RYT Jennifer Cranna. This community class is on a monetary donation basis, so all may reap the benefits of yoga. Bring you mat or use ours. By donation. ZenDo JuJuitsu, 80 Park Ln, New Milford. Mahasati 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 faith s develop the self-awareness and inner peace necessary to live life in a skillful way. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org. The Universal Reiki Plan – 11am-1pm. Third 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. The Universal Reiki Plan – 1:30-4:30pm. Third 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. First 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. Third 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.

Fairfield County Edition

natural awakenings

To place a Classified Listing: $1 per word. $25 minimum. Magazine deadline: 12th of month prior to publication. Email copy to NicoleM @NaturalAwakeningsMag.com. FOR RENT 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. 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. SPACE AVAILABLE 1-2 DAYS PER WEEK IN ATTRACTIVE NATUROPATHIC OFFICE: centrally located in charming Ridgefield. Prefer an ND, acupuncturist, mental health professional, or an established holistic practitioner. Please email DrDebBossio@yahoo.com.

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 nine 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. 203-650-1968.

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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 15.

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

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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 7.

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 9.

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 37.

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December 2014

GREEN LIVING

INTEGRATIVE HEALTH

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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 10.

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 8.

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 18.

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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 32.

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 37.

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 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.

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 67.

MASSAGE & BODYWORK 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

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 22.

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN NATURAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN SHALVA CLINIC, LLC

Ellen M. Lewis, ND, Director 260 Riverside Ave, Westport 203-916-4600 • ShalvaClinic.org

Lisa Singley, ND, MS 2103 Main St, Ste #2, Stratford 203-874-4333 Info@NHAWC.com • NHAWC.com We use advanced diagnostic testing with safe, effective, allnatural healing modalities and treatment options to treat acute and chronic conditions, restore balance and treat the mind, body and spirit. Specialists in endocrine disorders, digestive issues, pain management and chronic fatigue. We offer comprehensive solutions to prevent illness and maintain optimal health for body, mind and spirit.

DR. MARINA YANOVER, ND, LAC 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 Man-agement, Skin Care. Insurance accepted.

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 31.

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE, LLC

Adam Breiner, ND, Director Elena Sokolova, MD, ND David Brady, ND, CCN, DACBN Fairfield/Trumbull town line 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com Using state-of-the-art science combined with centuries-old healing modalities, our caring naturopathic doctors correct underlying imbalances and address issues which may interfere with the body’s ability to heal itself. Treatment protocols or therapies include: Abdominal Manual Therapy, Acupuncture, Allergy Desensitization, Chinese Medicine, Colonics and other Detoxification Protocols, Electro-Dermal Screening, Energy Medicine, FDA-cleared Phototherapy, Functional Medicine, Herbal Medicine, Homeopathy, Hormonal Balancing, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Metabolic Typing, Nutritional Assessment, RealTime EEG Neurofeedback and other therapies. See ad, page 2.

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.

MARVIN P. SCHWEITZER, ND

Wellness Institute 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203-847-2788 • DrMarvinSchweitzer.com Family Health Care using all natural therapies for 25 years. Acupuncture, Bio-Identical Hormones, Homeopathy, Chinese/Western Herbs, Allergy/Toxin Testing, Oxygen T h e r a p y, M e r i d i a n S t r e s s Assessment, Nutrition/Enzyme Therapies. See ad, page 16.

ORGANIC MATTRESSES & BEDDING THE CLEAN BEDROOM

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

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December 2014

PERSONAL GROWTH

PSYCHOTHERAPY

ALZBETA PESKOVA

JUDITH BARR, LPC, CCMHC

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.

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 10.

NINA ANTOLINO, RYT, RMT, MBA

MARIA C. CASTILLO, MSW, LCSW

Norwalk 203-326-0405 Info@Yoga2LifeCoaching.com Yoga2LifeCoaching.com

Brookfield 203-775-5006 • JudithBarr.com PowerAbusedPowerHealed.com

Certified Empowerment Life Coach, Reiki Master Certified Interdisciplinary Yoga Instructor Founder & Executive Director, Limitless Potential Norwalk • 914-393-9221 Nantolino@aol.com • Limitless-Potential.net A unique, integrative approach which empowers and guides you to create the life you want. You gain the practical tools, motivation and commitment necessary to achieve your goals. I specialize in women’s empowerment and wellness. I blend my business background, holistic training and empowerment coaching to guide women to reach for more than they ever believed possible.

PHYSICAL THERAPY

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 11.

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.

DENI WEBER, MA, LPC, D-CEP

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

Fairfield County Edition

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.

PSYCHOTHERAPY

REIKI

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

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

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REIKI JILL HILL

Reiki Master 203-722-4362 SpiritVibe11@gmail.com Experience the profound impact of bringing your Physical, Emotional, Mental and Spiritual bodies back into balance and embrace the joy in life once again! Usui Reiki sessions - All Reiki levels taught. Ridgefield area. See ad, page 11.

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.

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.

REIKI 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 31.

SOLAR ENERGY

TRANSFORMATIVE HEALING

KURE SPA

BETH PRINS LEAS

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

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 17.

SALTANA CAVE

Slyms Bazile, is a Healing Artist and a Certified Reiki Practitioner. She created Organic Remembrance Therapy, a fusion of healing modalities gathered in remembrance of our organic roots. Slyms’s purpose is to help humanity heal mind, body, and soul. She offers personalized healing sessions at Transformation for Life in Danbury. Healing to all!

Fairfield County’s first and only therapeutic Himalayan salt cave provides relief from respiratory issues such as allergies, asthma, and side effects of smoking and pollution. Salt is naturally antiinflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal.

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

80 North St, Danbury 860-341-2310 OrganicRemembrance@gmail.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 44.

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.

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 17.

TRANSFORMATION FOR LIFE 80 North St, Danbury 203-617-8228 LiveYourTransformation.com

HEART’S DESIRE METHOD Shiloh@TheHDMethod.com TheHDMethod.com

SPORTS NUTRITION

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 on back cover.

ORGANIC REMEMBRANCE

PUREPOINT ENERGY

28 Knight St, Norwalk 203-642-4105 • PurePointEnergy.com

WELLNESS CENTER

WELLNESS CENTER iFLOAT

163 Main St, Westport 203-226-7378 • iFloatSpa.net

Experienced and skilled

Transformation practitioners provide For Life effective and enjoyWellness Center

able massage therapy, facials, healing, nutritional guidance and yoga therapy. Visit our beautiful, retreat-like setting and choose one of our wellness treatments or take a yoga class. Open Tues. thru Sat. See ad, page 11.

Chill With Your New Soul Mate

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 17.

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December 2014

COSMIC RHYTHMS with Alethea Hunt

n 2015, Fairfield County-based astrologer Alethea Hunt will offer Natural Awakenings readers her blend of practical and spiritual insight to provide information and tips on how to navigate the month ahead. She will summarize and interpret what’s going on in the skies above so readers can use these cosmic rhythms and cycles for their highest good. Hunt’s approach centers on the premise that every astrological energy is capable of a wide range of expression, from constructive Hi-Fi to detrimental Lo-Fi and everywhere in between. Understanding the full range of harmonic “tones” an astrological energy emits allows readers to decide for themselves which end of the vibrational spectrum they wish to resonate. She believes “tuning in” and raising consciousness – not only of the forces in play around us, but also regarding our own energy field and the vibe we want to bring to the table – help us make empowering choices on the path of destiny. This is astrology at the junction of fate and free will. Knowing both potential opportunities and pitfalls, readers can navigate the month ahead with an increased sense of confidence while choosing their own adventures. It’s astrology for the Age of Aquarius, where each person becomes awakened to the transpersonal forces at work around them as well as to the evolutionary potential these energies can unlock. Whether a life event is experienced as a challenge or a breeze, every moment presents us with an opportunity for growth and learning. As we embrace this principle, the progress each soul makes on its own unique journey through existence ripples outward into the collective – as each does their part to become more aware, often they are compelled to reach out and aid others in this process of global awakening. We hope readers enjoy the opportunity to explore astrology and use this knowledge to expand their awareness and sense of personal empowerment. Look for the first Cosmic Rhythms column in next month’s issue of Natural Awakenings. A practitioner of Western Tropical astrology, Alethea Hunt has been practicing for over 17 years and enjoys infusing readings with humor while finding innovative yet practical solutions that help clients move forward. She can be contacted at 203-9176312 or Alethea@EmpoweredDestiny.com. 78

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December 2014

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