Natural Awakenings Fairfield County August 2017 by Natural Awakenings Magazine

H E A L T H Y

L I V I N G

H E A L T H Y

feel good • live simply • laugh more

Backyard AUTISM: Pizza Party Potential & Grill Scrumptious Recovery Pizzas and Flatbreads

P L A N E T

FREE

Catch Some Z’s

5 Solutions for Sleep Apnea

August 2017 | Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition | eNaturalAwakenings.com

The Natural Choice – The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center

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

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

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

WholeBodyDentistry.com 203-371-0300

501 Kings Highway East, Suite 108, Fairfield CT

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:

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

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WholeBodyMed.com 203-371-8258

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.

501 Kings Highway East, Suite 108, Fairfield CT

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

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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contents

7 newsbriefs 15 ecotip 16 healthbriefs 18 communityspotlight 20 masteringyoga 36 fitbody 38 inspiredtable 40 consciouseating 44 educationspotlight 46 healingways 48 naturallyhealthypet 52 petresourceguide 55 calendar 59 classifieds 60 resourceguide 62 displayadindex

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

22 AUTISM: A WHOLE-BODY

DISORDER AFFECTING THE BRAIN Collective Treatment Efforts Yield Better Results by Gabriella True

28 MEETING EDUCATIONAL 22 NEEDS OF AN AUTISTIC CHILD Understanding the Law, Services and the Role of Advocacy by Roseann Capanna-Hodge

32 INSPIRED PLAY AT

INCLUSIVE PLAYGROUNDS Sunshine, Fresh Air and Play Benefit All

by Sheri Hatfield

advertising & submissions

34 VISION READINESS

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.

Visual Skills are Key to

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com. Deadline for News Briefs: the 12th of the month.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

Learning and Confidence

by Randy Schulman

36 TAKE A HIKE

40 BACKYARD PIZZA PARTY Grill Scrumptious Pizzas and Flatbreads by Claire O’Neil

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.

FOR SCHOOL

Escape into Nature with a Day Trip by Marlaina Donato

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com. Deadline for magazine calendar listings: the 12th of the month. Website calendar listings may be entered at any time.

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46 GET A GOOD

NIGHT’S SLEEP Five Solutions for Sleep Apnea by Lloyd Jenkins

49 HELPER DOG VARIETIES Service, Therapy and Emotional Support Differ by Mary Oquendo

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The Center for EcoAgriculture, Aesthetics and Human Development Courses. Workshops. Lectures. Retreats.

Learn how to live a healthy and happy lifĐľ full of possibility!

Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wellness Warriors Retreat with Dr. Kristine Blanche September 22 - 24, 2017 Friday - Sunday

The Possibility Principle, Learning to Live a Fearless and Resilient Life with Mel Schwartz October 20 - 22, 2017 Friday - Sunday

The Learning Collaborative Lodging and accommodations available. Aid for those in need.

www.learningcollaborative.net info@learningcollaborative.net eNaturalAwakenings.com

August 2017

letterfrompublisher

contact us Publisher/Executive Editor Nicole Miale Editor Ariana Rawls Fine Design & Production Kathleen Fellows Erica Mills Contributing Writers Sheri Hatfield, Mary Oquendo, Gabriella True, Lisa Wolk-Kilion Sales & Marketing Leslie McLean Nicole Miale Operations Jill Badyrka Distribution Man in Motion LLC Richard Bruno 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 © 2017 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.

n this issue we take a fresh look at autism, which is still poorly understood by many personally unaffected by the epidemic. As Gabriella True, one of our stellar local contributors this month writes, “It matters that many people still believe autism is lifelong and not treatable, or not something some children can recover from.” We’re excited to present to you articles that may challenge preconceived notions. We hope the information provides education, inspiration and even hopeful ideas for those in need or those just curious about how to better support a loved one or friend. Many years ago, during summers and winter vacations from college, I worked at a group home for adults Nicole Miale with Down syndrome, cerebral palsy and other lifelong challenges. It was there I had my first experience with autism. I was thrown in the deep end as the folks I was caring for were at the very severe end of the spectrum; most were nonverbal and required extensive care and assistance with activities of daily living. I loved working with the clients and the environment was caring and collegial… there were certainly few dull moments. As we put this issue together, I reflected on my experience and the enormous difference between what I did as a part-time caregiver and the experience of a parent caring for their own child on the autism spectrum. At the end of my shift and vacations, I went back to my regular life. The parents of children on the spectrum may be rarely—if ever—afforded the luxury of extended breaks from their child’s needs. Like every parent, the parents of non-typical children must be equal parts cheerleader, disciplinarian, teacher, nurturer, doctor and chauffeur. However, these parents know the roles they play may not change—or may change only slightly— as they and their children age. Their child’s maturity and entry into society as a functional, productive adult may or may not happen, depending on the severity of the situation. Recovery is possible for some, but every situation is unique and requires a tremendous amount of research, diligence and even activism on the parents’ part. These parents have my utmost respect and admiration; their children are incredibly fortunate to have such devoted caregivers. As summer days wind down, we offer some suggestions for fun warmweather activities appropriate for everyone regardless of age or ability. Inclusive playgrounds welcome people of all ages and abilities; there are at least two in Connecticut. Hiking is a personal favorite pastime of mine and can be done in some fashion by anyone. A hike can be a stroll in relatively flat gardens, a half-day strenuous rock-climb, an overnight or an extended trek and everything in between. No experience is the same and simply the act of being in nature affords tremendous benefits to every human. State parks and great hiking locations abound in this area—most likely you won’t have to drive more than a half hour—to find a great spot to ramble and explore. Enjoy! With love and light,

We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

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

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

See our advertiser index on page 66, making it easier to find the resources you need. natural awakenings

newsbriefs Anniversary Celebration in Danbury

he Connecticut Childbirth & Women’s Center is celebrating its 20th anniversary on August 6, from 11am to 3pm, in Danbury. Patients, friends and families of past and present patients are welcome to attend the event. Midwives from the past 20 years have been invited back to celebrate. There will be prizes for the “oldest” and the newest baby. The celebrating is not just for birth center families; all families that have chosen to birth with the midwives over the years at Danbury Hospital or CT Childbirth Center are welcome. This is a family-friendly event with kids’ activities and a playground located onsite. Light refreshments will include beverages and birthday cake; bring your own picnic lunches. The Connecticut Childbirth & Women’s Center midwifery group provides birth care to women and their families in a home-like center in Danbury as well as midwifery services for local hospital delivery.

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 tickets, visit tinyurl.com/ticketsCTCWC. For more information on the center, visit CTBirthCenter.com. Location: Hatters Park, 13 E Hayestown Rd, Danbury.

The Medicine of ‘Why?’ Comes to Stamford

s a patient, Dr. Tatiana Fleischman, a board-certified internal medicine physician, knows the frustration of going from doctor to doctor and getting yet another prescription that doesn’t work. Or the fear of feeling sick and not knowing why. Fleischman, the medical director of Integrative MD in Stamford, has added a new approach to her practice. She has Tatiana Fleischman completed formal training in functional medicine at The Institute for Functional Medicine and is now listed in the institute’s official web directory. Functional medicine addresses the underlying causes of disease and the whole person, not just an isolated set of symptoms. Functional medicine practitioners look at patient history, and the interactions among genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors that can influence long-term health and complex, chronic disease. Oftentimes, the answer is imbalances, typically between hormonal, digestive and detoxification systems. Genetics, toxic environments, emotional states, diet and activities can cause them. For more information, call 203-275-6666 or visit IntegrativeMDcenter.com. Location: Integrative MD, LLC, 47 Oak St, Ste 110, Stamford.

DBT: Dialectical Behavior Therapy Do you want to: Increase joy and happiness and decrease stress? Create a lifetime of fulfillment by learning how to establish and maintain meaningful relationships, while building mastery and skillfulness in all areas of your life. yoga • meDITaTIon • mInDfulneSS DBT InDIvIDual TheRapy • DBT gRoup TheRapy CognITIve BehavIoRal TheRapy

1-888-745-3372 5 Sylvan Road South, Westport, CT 06880 fax 203-307-5788 • www.ccbhtherapy.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

August 2017

newsbriefs

Summer EcoFest in Danbury

Tap Into Your Strength with EFT Self-Help Workshops

he Tapping Practice/Tapping for Peace, a private, AAMETcertified EFT Tapping holistic health group in Sandy Hook, will launch a new self-help workshop series in September at their Sandy Hook studio/offices. The series, Tap Into Your Strength, will include monthly workshops focused on the holistic health practice of tapping, an Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) recognized by the American Psychological Association as an effective treatment for stress and trauma. The first workshop in the series will be Tap Out of It on September 13 at 7pm. It will be a simple introduction to tapping and how the technique can help you to reduce stress and tension in your life. Participants will learn the basics of EFT tapping, practice stress-reduction techniques with the guidance of a certified EFT practitioner and learn simple techniques to apply the method at home. The 90-minute workshops are $20 per person; a fullseries discount will also be available onsite at the first event. Advance registration is appreciated but not required. To reserve a spot, call 203-313-1560 or email Tapping4Peace@gmail.com. For more information, visit Tapping4PeaceCT.com. Location: The Tapping Practice/Tapping for Peace, 107 Church Hill Rd, Sandy Hook.

Common Ground Community Arts Center, in Danbury will be hosting an event supporting local expression and social action on August 5 from 1 to 10pm. A gathering of artists, activists, community members and organizations, Summer Eco Fest is a day of live music, art and activism to strengthen the local network of environmentally conscious community members. The day will begin with Children’s Open Mic with the theme of ecology; it will continue with cultural dance performances, poetry and a variety of musical entertainment. Jessica Wong of Holbrook Farm will be speaking on the importance of organic and non-GMO farming, and the direct effect the community has on the survival of local farms. Other subjects of discussion will be indigenous issues and general water conservation. There will be a variety of artisanal vendors and refreshments will be available. This is a family-friendly event. Admission is by free-will donation to benefit Holbrook Farm and the center’s efforts in continuing its mission. For 18 years, A Common Ground Community Arts Center has been offering a variety of performance arts, yoga and fitness classes. It is a venue for musical entertainment, visual art exhibits and the home of Danbury Arts In Action. For more information, visit ACommonGround.net or Facebook.com/Events/1308494979269797. To sign up for the Children’s Open Mic, email Director Jill Hancock at ACommonGround@live.com. Location: A Common Ground, 33 Crosby St, Danbury.

It’s a Delightful Kind of Church! GOOD COMMUNITY UPLIFITING EXPERIENCE GREAT MUSIC INSPIRATIONAL MESSAGE LIMITLESS POSSIBILITIES

25 3 Main Street, 2nd Floor Norwalk, CT 06851 (203) 855-7922 www.unitycenternorwalk.org

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

Celebration Service Sundays at 10:30 am Open Mic Night - Saturday, August 19th at 7 pm Reiki Healing Circle - Thursday, August 10th at 7pm see all events in the calendar listings

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Rev. Shawn Moninger, Unity Minister

Midsummer Star Gazing at its Best

he White Memorial Foundation is hosting its free Star Party on August 25 at 8pm. The one-hour astronomy program is organized by members of the Litchfield Hills Amateur Astronomy Club and the Mattatuck Astronomical Society. If the weather permits, there will be star gazing after the program. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. All are invited to bring your own telescope or binoculars. Donations are appreciated to help defray the conservation center’s programming expenses. The White Memorial Conservation Center is located in the heart of the 4,000-acre White Memorial Foundation in Litchfield. The environmental education center and nature museum have exhibits focusing on the interpretation of local natural history, conservation and ecology, as well as a museum nature store. Dormitory and classroom facilities on the property extend the opportunities for visitors to interact with the natural world. The outdoor arena includes the wildlife sanctuary maintained by the White Memorial Foundation.

LET US TREAT

Y U to a free pilates class

Mind-Body Connection Pilates pilatesMBC.com | New Milford, CT | 860.350.3643

For more information, visit Facebook.com/Events/ 476088676061122. Location: The White Memorial Foundation, 80 Whitehall Rd, Litchfield.

New Store Focuses on Hemp Products

emp Health Direct is an online store focused on cannabis skin care, jewelry, tinctures, topicals and other products, such as a transmucosal and pulmonary CBD nasal spray, a menthol freeze joint and muscle spray, CBD-infused coffee and more. The products are intended for people who are dealing with chronic pain, sports pain, autism spectrum disorder, epilepsy, PTSD, inflammation, fibromyalgia, migraines and other issues. Each product is manufactured using industrial-grade hemp grown in the U.S. The products do not contain THC so they are legal in all 50 states. For more information, call 203-258-9851, email Sallie@HempHealthDirect.com or visit HempHealthDirect.com. See ad, page 11.

Clinics The UB Clinics are open to the public and provide comprehensive healthcare services to over 20,000 patients per year with an emphasis on wellness and prevention at the nation’s Center of Excellence for integrative healthcare. Call today to discover how you can receive state-of-the-art, patient-centered care in the following fields:

• Acupuncture • Chiropractic

• Dental Hygiene • Naturopathic Medicine

No insurance is needed.

Call to schedule an appointment: 203-576-4349 60 Lafayette Street - Bridgeport, CT 06606

bridgeport.edu/UBclinics eNaturalAwakenings.com

August 2017

newsbriefs Health coaching to support recovery from: ADD SPD Autism ADHD

maria@mariarickerthong.com

Elysian Life Design Stay Inspired By The Divine

Stacey Lyons 914-336-7693

We've got all your spiritual and energy needs covered from Spiritual Consulting, Space & Land Clearing, Energy Healing, Herbal & Essential Oil based products & more. Contact us today to see where your path will lead you. www.ElysianLD.com Contact@ElysianLD.com

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

New Online Training Program for Health Coaches and Parents

re you a health coach HEALING THE NEW interested in healing CHILDHOOD EPIDEMICS ADHD, autism, asthma, AN ONLINE TRAINING PROGRAM PRESENTS FOR HEALTH COACHES ANDdisorders PARENTS allergies, sensory HELP those and more? Or with a parent who ASTHMA | ALLERGIES | AUTISM is determined for your child ADHD | AUTOIMMUNE CONDITIONS to shed his/her diagnosis? LEARN HOW TO led by •Epidemic Recognize possibleAnswers, causes of chronic conditions • Address common physiological imbalances Executive Director Beth Lam• Help families make challenging lifestyle changes •bert, Use diet and restore health a new is nutrition nowtooffering • Reduce toxic burdens training program. •online Understand meaningful genetic variances • Prioritize powerful healing therapies The national nonprofit’s • Navigate laboratory testing •10-module Heal on multiple levels: mind, body and spirit course brings • Guide a child to good health through family coaching together expert knowledge from a variety of disciplines, REGISTER AT WWW.EPIDEMICANSWERS.ORG/TRAINING covering topics ranging from personalized nutrition and nutrigenomics to functional laboratory testing, sensory therapies, relationship dynamics and more. Since the course is self-paced and online, it fits into the schedule of busy professionals and parents. Some continuing education credit may be available depending on professional affiliation. This program was originally designed to provide advanced and pediatric-focused training to credentialed health coaches from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, Functional Medicine Coaching Academy and the Nutritional Therapy Association. It is now open to others, including parents, caregivers, therapists and teachers; it is also for those interested in better understanding how to support and potentially heal children with autoimmune, developmental and inflammatory conditions, as well as significant special needs. “I decided to take Epidemic Answers’ Health Coach Training Program in order to better help parents and children,” explains Texas psychologist Christine Koehler, PhD. “I had no idea that it would turn out to be so life-changing for my clients, my family and my future. I had so many unanswered questions about what was really underneath the sensory, mood, attention and behavior problems and symptoms that my clients were experiencing. I am now able to fully conceptualize and comprehend what is happening with a child’s learning and development from a whole body perspective, even down to genetic, micronutrient and neurochemical levels.“ Epidemic Answers is offering a reduced introductory rate of $649 for the entire program. Through the end of 2017. Registration includes two best-selling books, A Compromised Generation and Outsmarting Autism (a $50 value). For more information and to register, email HealthCoaches@ EpidemicAnswers.org or visit EpidemicAnswers.org/training. See ad, page 13.

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Vegetarian Vision Returns to NYC for 25th Anniversary

egetarian Vision, in conjunction with New Life Expo, will bring the nation’s largest vegetarian and health convention to New York, September 9 and 10. The event will run from 10am to 7pm both days at Penn Plaza Pavilion. An international vegetarian convention, and health and food festival, Vegetarian Vision is a full weekend of food, fun and awareness featuring vegetarian, vegan and yoga celebrities as well as health and wellness experts and exhibitors. Among the many featured speakers at this year’s convention will be Dr. Brian Clement of the Hippocrates Health Institute; Gary Null; Dr. Joel Fuhrman; Dr. Caldwell Esselstein, a cardiologist at Cleveland Clinic; Dr. Robert Ostfeld, director of cardiology at Albert Einstein College of Medicine; and Dr. Perry Frankel, cardiologist at Northshore Hospital, who will be offering six noninvasive health tests all weekend at his booth. Advance admission is $15 for one day or $25 for the weekend. Visitors can pre-register at VegetarianVision.org. To exhibit or for a free brochure, call 516-897-0900. Location: Penn Plaza Pavilion, 401 7th Ave at 33rd St, New York, NY.

Dream Playshop in Norwalk

n September 16, from 10am to 5:30pm, at Unity Center in Norwalk, “play-shop” leaders Dianne Frost, PhD, and Theresa Crisci, LMT, will facilitate and encourage you to play and nourish your soul in the field of dreams. You will tap into your heart’s desires to re-energize your life path, identify innate qualities to support you, learn powerful techniques of dreamwork to illuminate your path, Dianne Frost and find “soul medicine” in your sleeping dreams to enliven your waking reality. If possible, write down your sleeping dreams in preparation for the “play-shop” part of the day and bring your dream journal. If you do not remember your dreams, you will still be enriched by other participants’ dreams. Please bring a lunch and a writing pad. The course is $125 per person. Frost has a doctorate in depth psychology and a master’s degree in education. Her doctoral dissertation focused on the healing effects of dream-work, and she has facilitated dream groups internationally as well as serving as an intuitive coach. Frost was trained by Debbie Ford as an integrative coach and by Dr. Brian Weiss in regression hypnotherapy. Crisci is a licensed massage therapist, life coach and creator of corporate wellness and empowerment training programs for mindfulness, meditation, stress reduction and living an authentic life. She is currently training to be a divinity minister. For more information and to register, visit TotalBalanceLifeChoice. com. Location: Unity Center, 3 Main St, #1, Norwalk.

New Location and Open House for The Green Room

wo area practitioners have teamed up for The Green Room, a new healing space in Milford. Join them at an informal open house on August 21 from 4 to 7pm to learn about the services they have to offer, get a chance to win raffle prizes and sign up for a free 15-minute reiki healing, as time allows. Kerry Hardy, RN, HNB-BC, RMT, of Holistic Heaven is a holistic registered nurse, Kerry Hardy reiki master and certified BeatCancer.org educator. The Green Room’s Tess Whaley, LMT, is a licensed aesthetician, NASM-certified personal trainer and a licensed massage therapist. Through energy work, nutritional counseling, fitness and body services—such as skin care and massage—Hardy and Whaley will formulate individualized sessions to help you reach your personal goals. The grand opening date for The Green Tess Whaley Room is September 30 from 4 to 8pm. The event also offers various raffle prizes, a 50/50 raffle and a special gift bag to the first 25 guests from members of Tess’ Small Business Networking Group. For more detailed event information, visit Facebook.com/ SBNetG. For more information on services, visit HolisticHeavenWellness.com and TessWhaley.com. Location: The Green Room, 990 Bridgeport Ave, Milford. See ad, page 45.

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

August 2017

newsbriefs Ridgefield Family Medicine Practice Welcomes New Providers

aturopathic Physician Deb Bossio has welcomed a variety of holistic health practitioners to her newly expanded Ridgefield office, Naturally Well Family Medicine. An open house on September 14 from 5 to 8pm offers an opportunity for the public to ask questions, meet new people, and enjoy healthy snacks and refreshments. Bo Fang is an acupuncturist who specializes in pain management, Deb Bossio infertility, anxiety, insomnia, digestive issues and chronic disease. Nicole Steen, a psychotherapist, works with adults dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, grief, chronic pain and relationship issues. A naturopathic physician, Abby Egginton, ND, specializes in naturopathic oncology care as well as general family practice. Cathy Snyder, focused on health coaching and nutrition, creates programs to help patients achieve goals in weight loss, chronic illness management and wellness maintenance through the aging process. Lorraine Jolly, an intuitive massage therapist, blends energy and bodywork modalities to facilitate individualized healing as well as stress and pain reduction. Bossio has been providing naturopathic medicine to her patients in Connecticut for over 10 years, with a focus on Lyme disease, digestive health, pediatric and women’s health, allergies, anxiety, depression and more.

If My Lab Testing is Normal… Why do I still feel sick?

For more information, call 203-431-4443 or visit NaturallyWellFamilyMedicine.com. Location: Naturally Well Family Medicine, 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 102, Ridgefield.

Paint Night at the Park

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“How to Stop Suffering from Food Sensitivities, Allergies and Digestion Problems” Download at: www.AllergyEliminationNorwalk.com

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

cenic Harrybrooke Park in New Milford is the backdrop for a night of painting hosted by The Creative FLOW. Come and create a beautiful peacock painting at the Harden House as part of Paint Night at the Park, on August 10 at 7pm. Painting will begin at 7:30pm. For $35, The Creative FLOW will provide all painting materials and instruction as well as some light snacks. Bring a friend and your favorite beverage. Payments of cash or check can be made directly to the park or a payment for $37 can be sent via PayPal to candicetempleton on or before August 1 to guarantee a spot for Paint Night at the Park. A portion of the proceeds from the evening will go directly to Harrybrooke Park. For more information, visit tinyurl.com/PaintNightCT. Location: Harrybrooke Park, 100 Still River Dr, New Milford.

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CT Open Hits New Haven August 16-26

HEALING THE NEW CHILDHOOD EPIDEMICS

t’s time for action at one of Connecticut’s annual sporting events, the Connecticut Open presented by United Technologies. The tournament celebrates 20 years of women’s professional tennis in Connecticut this year, with confirmed players to date include World No. 10 and returning champion Agnieszka Radwanska, World No. 12 Petra Kvitova and American Sloane Stephens. More players from across the world will be added. To celebrate the 20th anniversary, 18-time Grand Slam singles champion Martina Navratilova returns to play the Monday, August 21 evening session in an exhibition mixed doubles match against Mats Wilander, a seven-time Grand Slam singles champion. Also returning is the Powershares Series with legends John McEnroe, Michael Chang, Mark Philippoussis and James Blake. On Thursday evening, August 24, Chang will play Blake, and on Friday evening, August 25, McEnroe will take on Philippoussis, with the winners of each match competing in a final on Friday night. The men’s matches will be one set each. The tournament features activities for adults and kids that includes the Aetna FitZone, live music performances, local food trucks, kids’ activities and more. The tournament is honoring military members and veterans with a special United Technologies Military Appreciation Day on August 26. Other events include ShopRite Kids Day on August 20, Opening Night Ceremony presented by Yale University on August 21 and Courtgirls & Cocktails on August 22. The tournament is committed to benefitting the local community by supporting women’s, youth, military and other Connecticut causes throughout the state. For tickets, information and a complete schedule of events, call 855-464-8366 or visit CTOpen.org. See ad, page 67.

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

alt of the Earth Healing Arts Sanctuary, in Woodbury, will host a summer “dayscape” for the public, from 11am to 4pm, August 19. All attendees will have opportunities to experience Salt of the Earth’s newest products, services and therapies, including a crystal showcase, professional organic spray tanning (in 10 minutes), new infrared portable sauna, Ayurvedic therapies and more. There is a $20 fee, which includes brief experiences of all services offered. Also on August 19, from 2 to 4pm, spiritual musician David Young will offer "Readings" in the salt cave at Salt of the Earth Spa (787 Main St). Readings are 20 minutes and include the natural salt cave salt therapy. At 7pm that evening, Young will perform a specials spiritual musical performance at Athena Hall at the Sanctuary (346 Main St), playing his guitar and flutes. The concert is $30 in advance or $35 at the door. On August 31, celebrate and Journey Dance with JoJo Keane at the Sanctuary from 6 to 7:30pm. It is $25 per class. There is a special summer promotion on salt cave visits good through the end of August. A 10-pack of salt cave sessions will be available for $200. This offer will not be extended beyond the end of August. In July Salt of the Earth announced its new membership program, which allows individuals to sign up for a 6- or 12- month commitment in order to obtain savings on various combinations of services, including salt cave sessions, BioMat sessions, crystal light therapy and infrared sauna sessions. Memberships may also entitle individuals to additional discounts on other products and services. For more information about the various events or membership packages available, call 203-586-1172 or visit NaturalSaltHealing.com. Locations: Salt of the Earth Healing Arts Sanctuary is at 346 Main St S, Woodbury. Salt of the Earth Therapeutic Spa is at 787 Main St S, Woodbury. See Community Resource Guide listings, page 65.

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Floral Throughways

Garden Clubs Help Beautify Roads Displays of flowers populating highway meridians, road embankments and adjacent green spaces are often due to the efforts of garden clubs working with state departments of transportation (DOT). Some of these pioneers also inspire other clubs to pursue similar collaborations, often with public support. “The people of Texas have joined wholeheartedly in what Lady Bird Johnson started,” says Linda Love, roadside beautification chairperson of the Texas Garden Clubs, Inc. (TexasGardenClubs.org), headquartered in Fort Worth. Their committee recognizes planting projects on state and county highways assisted by 320 local clubs encompassing about 10,000 members.

She points to particularly attractive areas along highways 75 in Richardson, plus highways 45 and 35 extending south of Dallas, where concentrations of blue bonnets “look like lakes,” says Love. Other planted native flower patches include Indian paintbrush and gaillardia. She notes that the state prohibits mowing of blue bonnets until after they’ve bloomed and dropped their seeds; picking rules preserve their beauty. Gail Hill, chair of The Florida Federation of Garden Clubs, Inc.’s (FFGC.org) roadside beautification committee, based in Winter Park, reports the Ella P. Wood Paths of Sunshine Award Program that partners with the Florida Wildflower Foundation (FlaWildflowers.org) recognizes the efforts of state DOT maintenance crews in establishing and maintaining roadside wildflowers. “The department has run a strong program for decades,” she says. Local clubs are encouraged to petition elected officials for new resolutions to develop roadside wildflower projects. “About half of Florida’s counties have passed resolutions, including most recently, Santa Rosa and Escambia counties,” says Hill. This year, the Raleigh-based The Garden Club of North Carolina, Inc. (GardenClubOfNC.org), with more than 200 chapters, is working with the state DOT to commemorate the centennial of America’s entry into World War I by planting red poppies and bachelor buttons. Roadside Development Chairperson Pat Cashwell reports that about 1,500 acres of wildflowers, including cosmos, are planted annually on state and county highways each summer and fall, largely funded by the sale of special license plates, with awards to highway department crews. “We get letters from people after they drive through the state commenting on the floral beauty,” she enthuses. Many garden clubs also establish flowers in parks, schoolyards, church properties and other public locations.

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August 2017

healthbriefs

Colicky Babies Respond to Acupuncture

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esearch from Sweden has found that acupuncture helps reduce the crying of colicky babies. The study monitored 147 babies between the ages of 2 and 8 weeks with colic at four separate Swedish public child health centers. The babies were divided into three groups; each visited the clinic twice a week for two weeks. One group received “gold standard” care plus five minutes of minimal acupuncture, one group received standard care plus five minutes of acupuncture and one group received standard care only. After two weeks, both acupuncture groups showed a reduction in crying time by the second week and at a later follow-up. More babies dropped to less than three hours of crying per day in the acupuncture groups than the control group, removing them from the colic category altogether. No adverse effects were recorded.

Massage Relieves Chronic Back Pain

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

esearchers from Indiana University-Purdue University, in Indianapolis, set out to find out if massage therapy— typically an out-of-pocket expense not covered under most insurance plans—can provide effective treatment for individuals suffering with chronic back pain. The study followed 76 primary care patients with chronic back pain for 24 weeks. The researchers measured pain, disability and quality of life at the beginning of the study, after 12 weeks and again after 24 weeks of massage therapy. Each patient was referred to a licensed massage therapist for 10 no-cost sessions in a real-world environment during the initial 12 weeks. More than half of the patients that completed the core study reported clinically meaningful improvements for physical and mental measures. For bodily pain, 40 percent were clinically improved. Older adults and Baby Boomers reported the highest percentage of changes. Plus, the study found that sufferers that avoided taking painkillers were twice as likely to experience reduced pain than those using opioids.

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Lessening Anxiety in Chronic Disorders Increase Sleep and Reduce Sugar by Maria Rickert Hong

oes anxiety cause physiological issues or do physiological issues cause anxiety? It’s challenging to know which comes first. It may be that both statements are correct. Anxiety shows up as many kinds of somatic symptoms, including gastrointestinal distress, headaches, sleep problems, irritability, racing thoughts, poor concentration, heart palpitations, fatigue and worrying. Taking steps to relieve symptoms of anxiety is key to recovering children from neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and sensory processing disorders. Easing these problems is also helpful for individuals suffering from other common chronic disorders, such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, mood disorders and autoimmune issues. In children on the spectrum, anxiety can be caused by damage to their developing neurological systems. For example, many of these children have retained primitive reflexes such as a retained Moro reflex and/or startle reflex that leaves them in a state of permanent fight-or-flight. The Moro reflex, usually present in babies up to four months old, is a reflex responding to excessive stimulation of the senses, like sudden noise, touch, loss of support or light. In addition, children with neurodevelopmental disorders typically have an incorrectly functioning sensory system. Lights, sounds, tastes, smells and touch can be too little or too much. The vestibular systems of these children are out of kilter; they may not have proper body awareness or age-level-appropriate gross motor skills.

Tips for Reducing Anxiety

Fortunately, there are ways to promote a state of calm. One way is to ensure a good night’s sleep. Children may be going to bed later than is optimal for promoting health. We want the child’s body in sync with its circadian rhythm. For a child, this means going to bed far earlier than an adult does. A baby would have a 5:30 or 6pm bedtime while a 10-year-old would have an 8pm bedtime. A child that has slept well will be full of energy in the morning and less groggy. A good night’s sleep is critical for brain repair and body detoxification. If a child isn’t sleeping well, explore gentle sleep-promoting aids such as lavender oil, magnesium and/or valerian root. It is also important to check blood sugar levels. Low blood sugar is a common cause of night waking. If a child is eating too many processed and sugary foods and not enough protein, fat and fiber, there’s a good chance they may be on a blood sugar rollercoaster. A child who constantly has temper tantrums, prolonged tantrums or difficulty transitioning may have also low blood sugar. An inexpensive blood sugar monitor for home use can be used to check a child’s levels. The best time for a reading is on a fasting level, so it is good to check before breakfast. The optimal blood sugar range is between 70 and 85. High blood sugar puts a lot of wear-and-tear on the adrenals and causes inflammation, both of which can cause symptoms of anxiety. There are other ways to lower stress and anxiety but these two tips are paramount. Maria Rickert Hong, AADP, is a certified holistic health counselor and the author of the book Almost Autism: Recovering Children from Sensory Processing Disorder. She is a board member, the media director and a blogger for Epidemic Answers, a nonprofit focused on chronic illness prevention and healing. Connect at MariaRickertHong.com. See ad, page 10.

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August 2017

communityspotlight

Wooster School Supports Green Initiatives

ooster School’s long tradition as a self-help school is built on a culture of community involvement and enhancement. This in turn feeds a direct need to care for the local and global environment through conservation and recycling efforts. The Danbury-based school’s goal is to recycle everything possible on campus and to make thoughtful choices about best practices for disposables and food waste. Through hands-on experience, students gain an understanding of the

value of maintaining the campus’ wellbeing; they then take the skills and sensibilities learned at Wooster School out into the workforce to enact a wave of change in the industries they go on to work for/in. Embodying a healthy, safe and sustainable dining lifestyle means preparing foods from whole, fresh ingredients; limiting the use of processed foods; and avoiding products containing artificial colors, flavors, preservatives and high levels of sodium. The school uses cleaning products which contain less packaging and are significantly less toxic to the environment than conventional chemicals. Another example is napkins on campus, which are made from 100 percent recycled materials. Campus gardens are used as a resource for food and herbs, as well as sustainability programming and nutrition education. Food scraps from the school kitchen and dining room are picked up weekly by a local, largescale composting facility; the facility then mixes the food scraps with horse manure and wood chips to produce high-quality garden mulch. This pro-

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

natural awakenings

cess comes full circle when the school uses this nutrient-rich compost in the community vegetable garden and on flower beds throughout campus. Recycling on campus includes all paper, cardboard, plastic and glass. Recycling bins are paired with every trash bin for strategic visibility and ease of use. Sorting and properly disposing of all recyclables is handled by students during Wooster School’s “jobs program”. Additionally, non-rechargeable batteries are collected monthly in a bin and sent to be recycled by a company which maintains all applicable state and federal certifications to comply with environmental laws. Low-voltage compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs are used campuswide to reduce electricity consumption while classroom lighting is motionactivated and will turn on and off as needed. In addition, the school uses real plates and stainless flatware to reduce plastic landfill waste. Several high-use water fountains on campus have been fitted with bottle filling fountains to facilitate reusable personal water containers. Gym vending machines were replaced with H.U.M.A.N. vending, which offers more nutritious options that are lower in sodium and sugar. Athletic teams bring reusable water bottles to games and practices to cut down on plastic waste. Wooster School has been recognized for its green initiatives. It received the 2016 TownVibe Green Award - Honorable Mention, which was awarded for overall campus-wide attention to green initiatives, and particularly recycling and composting. The school is enrolled in the Green Restaurant Association and has been awarded 2 stars for implementing 18 beneficial environmental steps covering food, water, waste, energy, chemicals, disposables and building materials. Wooster School is an independent, co-educational college preparatory day school, serving preschool through grade 12 students from Fairfield and Westchester Counties on its Danbury campus. To learn more, visit WoosterSchool.org. See ad, page 12.

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Mastering Yoga

The yoga community in Fairfield County and the Housatonic Valley has never been more vibrant! This section provides connections to studios and teachers in the area, as well as helpful editorial to support your efforts to improve your practice.

Taking Yoga to New Heights

Moon Rise Yoga in Fairfield

n August 21 from 1:30 to 3pm, join Michele Leigh for Eclipse Yoga on the rooftop of ah Yoga in downtown New Milford and prepare for the full solar eclipse. To honor this dramatic Several styles of yoga classes will move through poses event different in the sign of Leo, participants tofocused choose on from throughout the week. activating lion/lioness spirit. Then each particiTwo Beautiful Studio Locations pant will light a white candle to awaken the fire energy while 65 Bank Street, New Milford, CT darkening sky. The class is pausing and reflecting under the 168 New Milford Tpke., New Preston, $35 per person. Space is limited. CT The event will be on the rooftop if weather permits, or in the studio with bad weather. 860-868-6707 Starting August 2, a weekly Yogastrology class will be www.ahyogacenter.com offered on Wednesdays at 4:30pm at ah Yoga. Yogastrology is the fusion of ahyoga@charter.net a slow-flow, gentle yoga practice enriched by astrological wisdom. Join yogi and astrologer Leigh to tap into the energy of Hungerford the zodiac wheel and connect to the Anne Owner, Director natural rhythms of the sun and the moon. To register, visit ahYogaCenter.com. Location: ah Yoga, 65 Bank St, New Milford.

njoy the magical experience of practicing yoga under the rising full moon! On August 7 at Jennings Beach in Fairfield, Kerri Gawreluk will lead an adult yoga class and bonfire from 7 to 9pm, while Louisa Correll will lead a kids’ yoga class from 7 to 8:15pm. Kids ages 5-12 get to practice while parents participate in their own adult class. The classes meet down near the marina and volleyball nets at Jennings Beach. Yoga mats don’t work very well on the sand so bring a big towel or sheet/blanket, water bottle, bug spray and any comforts you would like to have. Bring layers to wear as it can get cool when the sun goes down. Restrooms will probably be closed, but there are porta-potties available. Please arrive at least 15 minutes early so the class can start on time. A beach pass is required to park at the beach. If you do not have a Fairfield Beach pass, you will need to park on Clinton Street and walk in or pay for parking (it is not included in the offering price). The adult class is $25 paid in advance online or at the studio, $35 paid at the beach; the kids’ class is $10 in advance online or at the studio, $20 at the beach (exact change or check only for any class paid at the beach). For more information, visit Yoga4Everybody.net/Workshops. Location: Jennings Beach, 880 S Benson Rd, Fairfield.

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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eventspotlight

Hala Khouri

Kathryn Templeton

Tao Porchon-Lynch

Todd Norian

Show of Strength in Community at Newtown Yoga Festival

he 5th Annual Newtown Yoga Festival will take place on August 26 from 9am to 4pm at NYA Sports & Fitness in Newtown. Join the celebration featuring world-class yoga instructors, music and a nourishing community. Immerse your body, mind and heart as you dance, connect and transform. Children are welcome and encouraged to join the event’s first yoga camp. This year’s theme is “Strength in Community”; we are a unified body of individuals, and a group linked by a common belief in the healing benefits of yoga movement, mindfulness and sacred music. The event is a partnership with The Avielle Foundation Spark’s program to build compassion by bringing brain-healthy programs to the Newtown community. The day begins with an intention-setting meditation to

create sacred space, followed by Rock Your Shakti with journey dance or hoop yoga. Satu Relax with tai chi, restorative Aug yoga, reiki or a chair massage. Be encouraged and inspired 9am by teachers Hala Khouri, Todd Norian, Kathryn Templeton NYA and Tao Porchon-Lynch (who 4 Pri just turned 99). Khouri, MA, New E-RYT, has been teaching the movement arts for over 20 years. Norian, E-RYT 500, is the founder of Ashaya Yoga, a style focused on precise biomechanical alignment. Templeton, MA, RDT/MT, E500RYT, is an ayurvedic practitioner, a master teacher in the field of drama therapy and a psychotherapist for more than 30 years. Porchon-Lynch, named the “Oldest Yoga Teacher” by Guinness World Records in 2012, shows what is possible and stirs all of us to reach our highest potential regardless of age. Community Class Featuring The courtyard also offers the Vendor Village, food, live Gwen Lawrence and Elena Brow music and pop-up wellness demonstrations. Goods and special guesthome-made musician Garth St services from local artisans include photography, candles, athletic wear, hand-crafted jewelry, essential oils, • Suggested Donation: $30 ($3 apparel, accessories and more. The silent auction returns • Under 16 is Free! with a large number of items to bid on, including an R&R Adult&and Family Yoga for two at Kripalu, tickets to Live with• Kelly Ryan, a signed • Vendors and Live Music Hunger Games book series, photography, artwork, brewery tours and much more. • Bring Your Own Mat (and any A large tent offers shade and is a great place to meet up with friends and have a healthy lunch. Sitwww.NewtownYogaFe by the fountain and rejuvenate. Gather together and raise your vibration to the soulful sounds of a live kirtan band. Take a tour of this green facility. The day ends with a journey of sacred music, bowls and gongs. Proceeds raised through the event enable programs and workshops to be provided free of charge to the community, such as the Foundations of Mindfulness classes and other grassroots efforts. The suggested donation is $30, or $35 at the door, to attend the community classes with Newtown Yoga Festival’s yoga teachers. The festival has been designed to promote positive wellbeing, health and community. Yoga, by promoting movement and mindfulness, has been proven effective in reducing stress and depression and is a valuable mechanism for coping with physical and emotional trauma. The Newtown Yoga Festival honors this ideal. The festival is honored to now be a part of The Avielle Foundation’s Spark Program. The Avielle Foundation (AvielleFoundation.org), a local nonprofit, was started by the parents of Avielle Richman, who was one of the 20 first graders killed in the 2012 Sand Hook Elementary School shootings. Dr. Jeremy Richman, Avielle’s father and the foundation’s director, works as a neuro-scientist. The mission of The Avielle Foundation is to prevent violence and build compassion in communities by fostering brain science research, community engagement and education. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit NewtownYogaFestival.org. Location: NYA Sports & Fitness, 4 Primrose St, Newtown. See ad, page 25. eNaturalAwakenings.com

August 2017

Autism: A Whole-Body Disorder Affecting the Brain Collective Treatment Efforts Yield Better Results by Gabriella True their brain function. A combination of traditional and medical therapies helps a child reach their full potential. Children can become happier, healthier and able to function at a higher level; some even lose their autism diagnosis.

COMMON MEDICAL CONDITIONS IN AUTISM

ccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in 68 children has autism spectrum disorder, or ASD. Autism typically affects individuals in five areas: communication, social skills, learning, behaviors and medical. Dr. Bernard Rimland challenged the notion that autism has a psychological origin rather than a physical one in his 1964 book, Infantile Autism: The Syndrome and Its Implication for a Neural Theory of Behavior. Scientific studies continue to challenge the traditional view that autism is genetically hardwired and not treatable. Treating the medical issues can positively impact the other four areas. Autism is complex. We cannot

heal a child overnight. Some treatments may create rapid improvements while others happen more slowly. But the collective effect of several treatments can be considerable. Behavior is one way a child with autism communicates. When a child is not feeling well, behaviors can worsen. Too often, practitioners don’t look at the underlying medical problems; parents are told behaviors and health problems are “just part of the autism” so they are not given tools to help their child. The key is to work with an integrative doctor who will treat autism as a wholebody disorder that affects the brain. Healing the body not only helps the child feel better, but also improves

There are many medical conditions that occur at the same time as autism. Co-morbid conditions can affect the digestive, immune and nervous systems as well as the brain and the body’s biochemical processes. What do those conditions look like? Children can have bloated bellies, frequent illnesses or they haven’t been sick in years, dry skin, rashes, smelly bowel movements, insomnia, diarrhea or constipation, head banging, biting, obsessive-compulsive (OCD) behaviors, anxiety, sensory issues, hyperactivity, inattentiveness, seizures and more. Potential co-morbid conditions • Immunologic • Autoimmune • Chronic bacterial/viral infection • Environmental/food allergies • Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) or Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS)

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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Neurologic • Seizures • Sensory issues Gastrointestinal • Leaky gut syndrome, or intestinal hyperpermeability • Dysregulated microbiome • Malabsorption • Reflux esophagitis • Inflammatory bowel disease Metabolic • Vitamin and mineral deficiency • Methylation disorder • Elevated ammonia • Serotonin/melatonin deficiency • Folate autoimmunity • Mitochondrial dysfunction Each child has a unique biochemical, genetic and medical profile. Not every child has difficulties in all areas but they may have several. We may need to address multiple deficiencies, environmental insults and toxins in a child whose genetics make them vulnerable to begin with. Issues can be reduced, managed or even resolved. There is no fixed protocol and treatment plans must be tailored to each child. They are based on appropriate medical testing, combined with an examination of family history and the current medical profile, including what autistic behaviors/symptoms are prominent. An integrative physician will examine the patient’s metabolic foundation and then treat the underlying cause of the condition. First, they will look at what the child is getting too much of and what he is not getting enough of. This often includes environmental changes, such as reducing toxic exposure, limiting electromagnetic fields and dietary changes. Then the practitioner reinforces the adjustments with vitamins, minerals and good fats. The next focus is on the gut, mitochondria, methylation, immune system and other areas of need. It is key to remember these comorbid conditions are interrelated. When one system is not functioning, the others are either over-compensating or not functioning fully. For example, if a child is born with a defect in their methylation pathway—such as the MTHFR gene mutation—then they are predisposed to detoxification issues,

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SUPPORT EDUCATION

H PE

TACA’s Connecticut chapter is one of 32 TACA chapters across the country. TACA CT hosts meetings, events and coffee talks throughout the year. All parents, caregivers and professionals are welcome to attend. TACA hosts educational speakers on important topics and allows parents and caregivers to connect with one another to stay informed on the latest information in the autism world. All first time attendees receive TACA’s Autism Journey Guide to keep as a resource at no charge.

Coffee Talks resuming in Fall 2017

Join us for coffee and conversation about all things autism.

TACA believes in early diagnosis, intensive therapies and medical intervention for children affected by autism. With early intervention, medical treatment unique to each person’s needs and necessary support services for families many children can improve greatly and some can recover from their autistic symptoms. We believe the future is not defined for many children affected by autism. Hope and recovery is possible.

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August 2017

which may result in a toxic overload. Once the body has too many toxins, it is susceptible to increased allergies or intolerances. This can lead to inflammation, pathogen overload—such as yeast, bacteria or viruses—and gut problems like diarrhea, bloating, pain and constipation. This burden precipitates immune dysfunction and oxidative stress, making the vicious cycle get worse. Dr. Nancy O’Hara, of Center for Integrative Care in Wilton, begins treatment by determining, “what this child needs to get that he or she is not getting enough of. The first thing is diet. Go gluten- and casein-free 100 percent for three months. If it is not a ‘Wow’, then continue with a good anti-inflammatory diet, less carbs, less sugars. Essential fatty acids are essential for a reason. Then add in a good probiotic. I then look at the individual child and what they need. Look at their history; it is not all about expensive tests.”

Gastrointestinal Issues (GI) and Gut Bacteria

Children with autism are more likely than typically developing peers to have a GI disorder. One study indicates that up to 91 percent of children with autism have a wide range of GI issues. These children have gut dysbiosis, or an imbalance of good to bad microbes in the gut. Yeast levels can be high; signs of yeast overgrowth are diaper rash, headaches, inappropriate laughter, sleep disturbances, gut pain and constipation. Both constipation and diarrhea make gut dysbiosis worse, which contributes to immune and metabolism problems. The bad microbes produce toxins

“…look at the individual child and what they need. Look at their history; it is not all about expensive tests.” ~ Dr. Nancy O’Hara that can compound a leaky gut (permeable intestinal walls), which impairs absorption, digestion, immune function and detoxification. A leaky gut allows toxins to pass into the blood stream and some can cross the brain blood barrier. Bacteria also trigger inflammation and negatively affect the immune system. Gut bacteria produce neurotransmitters that inhibit or activate brain function. With treatment, common improvements can be better focus; improved sleep; and less hyperactivity, GI pain, constipation or diarrhea, self-injury or anxiety. Treating GI Issues with Diet In order for the body to function correctly, it needs nutrient-dense foods that are not laden with chemicals, allergens and excito-toxins. Artificial and high inflammatory foods contribute to a leaky gut and food colorings and preservatives can increase hyperactivity. The most common diet utilized is gluten-free/ casein-free, or GF/CF, but many need to tailor the diet to address specific needs. Certain foods may need to be removed due to allergies and intolerances. Even without a positive allergy (IgE) or intolerance (IgG), some children see positive changes with the removal of common food allergens. Further dietary changes can be helpful, such as lowering histamines, limiting carbohydrates, following

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a ketogenic diet and reducing oxalate. There is no one-size-fits-all diet; most need to be modified. “I have seen children improve dramatically when a therapeutic diet tailored to their individual history and symptoms is utilized properly. For many of my clients, their biggest fear is that if they take away the few foods their picky child relies on, they won’t have anything to feed them. In most cases, when we remove the problem foods, we actually see kids broaden their food choices as their gut heals and their ‘drug of choice’ is no longer available,” says Vicki Kobliner, MS, RDN, of Holcare Nutrition in Wilton. Treating Dysbiosis There are various treatment protocols to treat dysbiosis, which is a microbial imbalance or maladaptation. Children with autism sometimes have low levels of certain enzymes and need to take digestive enzymes. Probiotics help populate the gut with good bacteria. Antifungal medications are often added to treat dysbiosis. Parasite treatments may also be added especially if behaviors increase at the full or new moon.

Immune Disorders

A healthy immune system should recognize foreign organisms, eradicate pathogens, prevent a subsequent infection from the same organism and not cause injury to self. Many autistic children have a dysfunctional immune system due to immune dysfunction, hypersensitivity, autoimmunity and/or inflammation. Any autistic child with recurrent infections or atypical reactions

should have an immune evaluation. Some may have a primary immune deficiency, or PI, making them susceptible to chronic infections. An autistic child with chronic sinus symptoms, asthma, respiratory infections, GI issues or eczema should also be evaluated for IgE and IgG food and environmental allergies or intolerances as these can cause behaviors. “Eighty percent of the immune system comes from the gut,” says Darin Ingels, ND, BCIP, of Ingels Family Health in Fairfield. “Many immune and autoimmune problems stem from bacteria that are a normal part of the microbiome. The infection may be the initial problem, but it’s what the infection does to one’s immunity and how it turns on itself, creating autoimmunity, that matters. Kids keep going on antibiotics for months or years and relapse when they stop. It is not just about treating the infection; one must modulate the immune system without suppressing it and must not kill the normal flora in the process.”

PANS/PANDAS

A subset of autistic children has Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Disorders, or PANS, or Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal infection (PANDAS). The hallmark symptoms are sudden onset OCD, food restriction, anxiety, emotional lability, depression, aggression, behavioral regression, decline in learning abilities, sensory and motoric changes, sleep disturbances and enuresis. It is a clinical diagnosis and not based on one test. Treatment typically starts with antibiotics, often for an extended period of time. Subsequent treatments, depending on clinical assessment and lab tests, include immune modulation with corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and plasmapheresis. Natural anti-inflammatory, natural immune-supporting therapies, and natural anti-microbials are often utilized to promote further healing.

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Metabolic Disorders

Individuals with ASD may have several metabolic disorders. Mitochondrial (mito) metabolism A 2010 study indicated that 80 percent of those enrolled had mito dysfunction (not mito disease). Mitochondria are in almost every cell; they are responsible for creating energy for the body’s functions. When mitochondria are dysfunctional, many symptoms occur, including developmental delay or regression, seizures, headaches, low muscle tone, intellectual disability, GI issues and fatigue. Neuropsychiatric symptoms can include attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, OCD and depression. Some triggers of mito dysfunction are overload of toxins and metals, certain pathogens, stress, gene mutations, and mineral and vitamin deficiency. Mito dysfunction treatment is multi-factorial. • Support with supplements, such as L-carnitine, vitamin C and E, CoQ10, B vitamins and others. • Increase meal frequency and hydration. • Avoid mito toxins, such as acetaminophen, valproic acid and beta-blockers. • Exercise moderately.

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August 2017

• Check folate levels as they are integral for mitochondrial function. Some individuals have positive FR auto-antibodies, which, when treated, can show improvements in social interaction, attention and communication. Some see immediate improvements, while others never see an improvement but treatment can delay the progression of the disease. Redox metabolism Treatments for oxidative stress can be beneficial. Glutathione metabolism can be improved with methylcobalamin B-12. NAC, or N-acetyl cysteine, can reduce oxidative stress and irritability. Treatments may improve core symptoms, hyperactivity, language and general functioning.

Neurologic Disorders and Sleep Disorders Seizures Seizures disorders are more prevalent in individuals with ASD than typically developing individuals. Some studies show that up to 38 percent of individuals with autism have epilepsy. Seizures are most commonly treated with antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). When AEDs are not effective by themselves, non-AED treatments are typically used. The most favorable treatment is a low-carbohydrate diet (ketogenic, modified Atkins). Other treatments include IVIG, steroids and Vagus Nerve stimulator. Sleep disorders Problems sleeping are exceedingly common. Behaviors are usually exacerbated as a result. One study shows a

It matters that many people still believe autism is lifelong and not treatable, or not something some children can recover from. defect in the gene that makes melatonin; however, not all sleep issues are resolved by melatonin. GI issues, specifically GERD/reflux, can disrupt sleep. Foods that trigger GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, should be eliminated; these include tomatoes, garlic, citrus, vinegar, carbonated drinks, high fat foods and others. A comprehensive GI workup by a gastroenterologist, including scopes, should be considered. Seizures should be considered as they can disturb sleep. PANS can trigger sudden onset sleep issues. If a child is unable to fall asleep for hours, rule out yeast, parasites, phenol sensitivity, and vitamin and mineral deficiency like magnesium and iron. Neurotransmitter Dysfunction Several neurotransmitter deficiencies are seen in ASD. These include amino acids (GABA, glutamate), cholinergic (acetylcholine), hormone (oxytocin) and amino acids (serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine). Auto-antibodies can also disrupt neurotransmitter function. Many medications used in ADHD to control dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmission cause negative side effects in children with ASD. There are some promising possibilities though. Medica-

tions targeting GABA (gamma-amino butyric acid) and glutamate may be effective due to abnormal excitatory/inhibitory balance. This intervention may improve language and core deficits. In some, galantamine can be effective in improving language and social functioning as it modulates acetylcholine. Current research continues to prove that we need to further develop the way we think about and treat autism. It matters that many people still believe autism is lifelong and not treatable, or not something some children can recover from. It means less funding is dedicated to research and treatment. It also means that most traditional therapies are discontinued after the primary years, closing the opportunities for growth and development of skills. It closes the door on hope when the door should always be left open for a child or an adult with autism to reach his/her full potential. Continued growth should be encouraged and celebrated. Treating these co-morbid conditions does not negate the acceptance of a child’s uniqueness and autism. Making someone feel better and healthier should never be considered a problem. Treatment and acceptance can coexist. Gabriella True is the mother of twin boys, one of whom has autism and PANS. She is the board president of New England PANS PANDAS and the coordinator for Talk About Curing Autism (TACA)’s Connecticut chapter. She and her family reside in Connecticut. Connect at Gabriella. True@TACANow.org. See ad, page 23.

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mplementing and continuing medical treatments requires a long-term commitment. The path is not easy but the results can make it all worth it.

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Triage the issues. What are the top three to five deficits your child has? What strengths do you want to support? What are the medical interventions to improve the deficits or strengths? You don’t want to overload yourself or your child. Choose a select number of interventions to implement within a six-month to one-year span.

Understand the process. Educate yourself on the medical basis behind treatment protocols so you can address positive and negative reactions. That way, when reactions occur, there is a plan in place to handle them. At the start of each protocol, it is key to know why you are doing it, what reactions you may see and how you will assess whether to continue. eNaturalAwakenings.com

August 2017

ers include executive functioning, study skills, organizational, vocational and transitional support.

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IEP versus a 504 Accommodation Plan

Meeting Educational Needs of an Autistic Child Understanding the Law, Services and the Role of Advocacy by Roseann Capanna-Hodge

ow autism is displayed in children on the spectrum varies widely; thus their needs can be very different. One child may be on the higher functioning Asperger’s syndrome side while another may be at the other end with low cognitive functioning coupled with a greater level of social difficulties. The individual with autism, whether on the low end or high end of the spectrum, struggles in different ways, but they both have trouble with connecting socially. On the surface, an individual with higher functioning autism may seem more neurotypical; however, it is hard for them engage socially—along with other issues—and this can create stress and anxiety. Although a child may be high-functioning and appear to not need a lot of support, the reality is that their internal and social struggles are real. Common symptoms of autism include difficulty with communication and social interactions, obsessive interests and repetitive behaviors. Behaviorally, individuals with autism may display poor eye contact, compul28

sive behavior, persistent repetition of words or actions, impulsivity, repetitive movements or even self-harm. Associated issues can include problems with attention —such as inattention, limited attention capacity or hyperfocusing on restricted interests—poor speech, pragmatic language difficulties, learning and processing problems, sensory processing difficulties, coordination issues, fine and gross motor delays, depression, anxiety, sleep difficulties, seizures, and immune and gut issues. With this wide band of difficulties, meeting the educational needs of a child with autism can be extremely difficult. One child may do very well with a few accommodations to support their need for extra time and social skills support; another may struggle with basic daily living skills or with communication, self-care and social functioning, which would require direct support through an individualized education plan (IEP) for schooling. Typical IEP services include, but are not limited to, applied behavior analysis (ABA), occupational, physical, speech and social skills therapies. Oth-

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The laws protecting the educational rights of those with autism—or any disability—are complex. The meetings to coordinate services in the schools for a child are complex as well. In order to ensure that the individual child’s needs are being met, it is critical to understand the difference between an IEP and a 504 plan. The “504” is adopted from Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, a federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of a disability. The law requires schools to eliminate any barriers that prevent students with such disabilities from participating fully in or accessing their education. It requires a written 504 plan setting forth reasonable accommodations that will be made to give the child equal educational access. The range of accommodations that “level the playing field” to make curriculum more accessible vary; they can include seating in the front of the classroom, reading assistance, organizational support, a social skills group and much more. Some higher functioning children with autism are able to compensate with high intellect; they can do very well academically with a good 504 plan that provides for accommodations in social interactions or other areas.

What is an IEP?

The Federal Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act (IDEA) provides for free and appropriate education, or FAPE, services for children with disabilities in specific categories, including adaptive, cognitive, communications, physical or social-emotional development. IDEA requires that eligible students aged 3-21 receive a written IEP. An IEP is a plan for the delivery of special education and related services that provides for personalized instruction in order to make meaningful progress in school at no cost to the parents. It should describe the child’s learning problems, identify the services to be provided, set annual goals and define how progress will be measured. For students with a

disability who require specialized instruction, they fall under IDEA and need an IEP to meet their unique educational needs. Both laws have specific rules and regulations that protect the rights of the eligible disabled student. There is governmental oversight to ensure schools are doing what is necessary to give students access to their education. There are more specific rules and regulations to protect a child under IDEA.

Is the Educational Program Meeting the Need?

Knowing when a 504 or an IEP is more appropriate for a child is challenging. Generally, if a student has a learning disability, developmental delay, autism, ADHD or another condition that directly impacts learning and behavior, then an IEP is needed. However, as parents, we need to be aware that just because there is a 504 plan or IEP in place doesn’t mean the child’s educational needs are being meet. Schools try their best to meet the unique needs of diverse learners but a lack of understanding of the issues or a group-think mentality can get in the way of individualized programming. A school stating that this is what they offer in the district is not necessarily in alignment with the language of IDEA law. That doesn’t mean we can ask for ski lessons to be covered. It does mean that if the parent and the IEP team think that the child’s needs aren’t being met, then they have a right to ask for different programming and supports. The problem is parents may not fully understand their rights or even know what to ask for.

How Can an Advocate Help?

Think of an advocate as a language translator; they help translate the laws of 504 and special education into a plan that is individualized and optimal for the child. These meetings have many procedural formalities that make it confusing and stressful for parents. The IEP document itself is also a complicated legal document that must be recorded appropriately to protect their child’s rights. Having an advocate in the meeting can not only ease stress but help to ensure all that can be done is being brought up for the child.

Supporting the Child with Autism at Home

What can be done to support a child at home to help ensure a better educational experience at school? Many parents of children with autism are already running around after school to various therapy appointments—especially early in a child’s life—as those are key to developing greater adaptive skills and functioning. Optimizing the brain and body allows for school and private interventions to work better. For those with autism, an anti-inflammatory diet, naturopathic care, neurofeedback and biofeedback therapies can also help change the biological terrain and get to root causes so that healing can begin. Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge is a board-certified neurofeedback practitioner, licensed professional counselor and certified school psychologist. She works with children, adults and families, supporting them with research-based, holistic therapies that are bridged with neuroscience. Connect at DrRoseann.com. See ad, page 5.

Learn More About PANS/PANDAS

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If a Child has Sudden, Acute Onset of OCD and/or Food Restriction & Multiple Neuropsychiatric Symptoms, Consider PANS/PANDAS. OCD • Food Restriction • Anxiety • Emotional Lability • Depression • Aggression • Oppositional Behavior • Behavioral Regression • Decline in Learning Abilities • Sensory & Motoric Changes • Sleep Disturbances • Enuresis

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August 2017

The Frustrating, Misunderstood and Evolving World of PANS/PANDAS Untreated Infections Can Lead to Lifelong Challenges by Lisa Wolk-Kilion

he child radiated happiness, had friends and loved life. Then seemingly overnight, he changed; he began to suffer from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) behaviors and tics, wet the bed, was unable to leave the side of his parents, barely ate, raged and threw books. He told his parents that he wished to die. His doctor prescribed antidepressants but the medication did little to alleviate the symptoms. Enter the world of PANS/PANDAS, an infection-induced encephalitis that strikes approximately one in 200 children. PANS, or Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome, is an autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorder triggered by infection, including flu, pneumonia, mycoplasma, Lyme disease, Coxsackie and strep. On the other hand, PANDAS, which is a slightly more recognizable acronym, pertains to the autoimmune neuropsychatric disorder induced by the streptococcus infection. PANDAS was first identified in the 1990s by Dr. Susan Swedo, who currently researches at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Swedo has likened PANDAS to “rheumatic fever of the brain.” An untreated strep infection can result in the body’s antibodies attacking the brain instead of strep cells. It has been shown that antibodies cross the blood brain barrier to attack the basal ganglia and other integral parts of the brain. Dr. Dritan Agalliu is currently studying this aspect at Columbia University. According to the NIMH, PANS is a clinical diagnosis. The child’s history, symptoms and blood tests are all used for diagnosis. While a sudden onset of symptoms can indicate PANS, the onset is sometimes more insidious. It may start at any age so doctors ought to run bloodwork for possible 30

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

infections. In addition, Moleculera Labs has created the Cunningham Panel, a blood test which can help identify levels of autoimmune antibodies. At the current time this test is typically not covered by insurance. It is integral to get proper medical support immediately. Any child with a sudden change in personality or an onset of depression should, of course, be evaluated for abuse; however, parents and medical providers need to know that an infection can provoke these symptoms. The first line of therapy is often antibiotics or antivirals, depending upon the infection that triggered the symptoms. Steroids may be used to bring down inflammation, provided that Lyme disease is not an inherent infection. However, despite a slowly growing body of research, too many children remain misdiagnosed for long periods of time. “Heightened clinical suspicion and more appropriate and comprehensive treatment with antibiotics and immunemodulating therapy will transform PANDAS from a devastating chronic illness with episodic flares into a treatable disorder,” says Dr. Nancy O’Hara of Center for Integrative Care in Wilton. She will be speaking at the upcoming New England PANS/PANDAS Parent Association conference in Connecticut in November 2017. Children who have severe symptoms can be given IVIG (intravenous immunoglobulin) or plasmapheresis. The PANDAS Physicians Network advocates for immune-modulating therapies for children at risk. “In addition to the immunomodulatory therapies, supportive therapy would include re-feeding protocols for the children with anorexia; cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for obsessional food/eating restrictions and the self-injurious behaviors; and educational/supportive therapy for parents (and later for the child) to ensure that symptoms do not escalate further,” the network recommends. Many practitioners have found that CBT works only after the inflammation has been decreased. There are some important facts to know. Some children do not react with bacterial or viral symptoms, even fevers, but instead have an increase in intrusive thoughts, tics and other PANS symptoms. Children with autism are just as susceptible to PANS and PANDAS. Note that tests for Lyme disease and other tick-borne infections are often erroneous. While not all children with PANS have Lyme or vice versa, a correlation does exist. There is treatment and hope. Support groups and knowledgeable medical practitioners are available. If PANS or PANDAS is suspected, seek a medical practitioner. We must also do our own research; an informed parent is critical to the success of the child. For more information on PANS and PANDAS, visit websites such as NEPANS.org, PANDASPPN.org, PANDASNetwork. org, tinyurl.com/NIHMentalHealth and MyKidisNotCrazy. com. For those who want to understand the challenges of this syndrome, watch the new My Kid is Not Crazy documentary. Lisa Wolk-Kilion, the mother of a child with PANS, is the founder and editor of PANSlife.com as well as an educator for two decades in New York. PANSlife.com provides resources, encouragement and support to families dealing with Lyme disease and PANDAS/PANS.

natural awakenings

Structure = Function Chiropractic Care for Optimal Function by Risa Sloves

“Get knowledge of the spine, for this is the cause for many diseases.” ~ Hippocrates, 460-377 BC

hiropractic care is a distinct science, art and philosophy of health and healing. Chiropractic science concerns itself with the relationship between the structure (primarily the spine) and the function (primarily coordinated by the nervous system) of the body as that relationship affects the restoration and maintenance of health. Since our brain and nervous system control the function of our cells, tissues and organs, it is vitally important for our nervous system to operate at 100 percent for optimal health. Our spine protects our spinal cord; when a spinal bone shifts out of normal alignment, it may produce abnormal motion and damaging pressure on spinal nerves. This condition is known as vertebral subluxation; if present, it may interrupt the vital nerve flow within our bodies. Doctors of chiropractic are trained to correct subluxations which interfere with normal body function by performing gentle spinal adjustments. Research has shown that correcting vertebral subluxations is not only effective in eliminating symptoms—such as pain—without the use of drugs or surgery, but chiropractic care has profound effects in restoring health. Chiropractic adjustments have been shown to boost the coordinated responses of the nervous system and immune system. In 1975, Ronald Pero, PhD, the chief of cancer prevention research

at New York’s Preventive Medicine Institute and a professor in environmental health at New York University, began researching the most scientifically valid ways to estimate individual susceptibility to various chronic diseases. His research in this area includes over 160 published reports in peer-reviewed journals. In one study, Pero’s team measured 107 individuals who had received long-term chiropractic care. The chiropractic patients were shown to have a 200 percent greater immune competence than people who had not received chiropractic care. They also had a 400 percent greater immune competence than people with cancer or serious diseases. Pero concluded that, “Chiropractic may optimize whatever genetic abilities you have so that you can fully resist serious disease...I have never seen a group other than this show a 200 percent increase over normal patients.”

Impact on Sensory Processing

When caring for children of any age or ability, a team approach incorporating many different health professionals is optimal, and pediatric chiropractic care is an essential component. Many sensory processes take place within the nervous system at an unconscious level. Although we are familiar with the senses involved in sight, smell, taste, touch and sound, we may not realize that the nervous system is also responsible for the senses of movement, force of gravity and body position. Cells within the skin send information to the brain regarding light touch, pain, temperature and pressure. The inner ear detects motion and changes in head position. Components of muscles, joints and tendons provide an awareness of body position. An optimally functioning nervous system is critical to incorporating all of this sensory information. For most children, sensory integration develops in the course of ordinary childhood development. However, for some children, sensory integration does not develop as efficiently as it should. When the process of sensory integration is disordered, problems in learning, development and/ or behavior may become evident. These may range from over-sensitivity to under-reactivity to incoming sensory stimulation. Unusually high or low activity levels; gross or fine motor coordination problems; and delays in speech, motor and language skills are a few of the potential issues. Pediatric chiropractic care provides vestibular, proprioceptive and tactile stimulation that is essential for the proper development of a child’s nervous system. Chiropractic is not a treatment for autism or sensory processing disorders, just as it is not a treatment for any other disease or health condition. Simply, it is a gentle, non-invasive treatment to restore optimal structural balance and neurological function. Dr. Risa Sloves is one of 10 board-certified pediatric chiropractors in Connecticut. She practices with her husband, Dr. Mark Joachim, who is also a chiropractor, and additionally specializes in the BioSET Allergy Elimination Technique and nutrition. Connect at 203-838-1555, CTChiropractic.com or AllergyEliminationNorwalk.com. See ad, page 7. eNaturalAwakenings.com

August 2017

Adam's Adventure Playground, Tolland, CT

Inspired Play at Inclusive Playgrounds Sunshine, Fresh Air and Play Benefit All by Sheri Hatfield

lay is the birthright of all children. It is through play that all children—regardless of their physical, emotional or mental abilities—decode the world and learn. Play has been shown to improve social and language skills and physical and mental health while decreasing stress. So imagine being the parent of a child with limited abilities, or physical or emotional needs; these can make a trip to the local playground near impossible. For a child in a wheelchair, the playground is a place to get sunshine, fresh air and watch other children play. For a sight-impaired child, a typical playground is fraught with potential dangers. For a child with autism, it can be complicated and even unsafe, possibly causing the fight-or-flight instinct to kick in. In the 2010 United States Census, it was estimated that 12 percent of the population has a severe disability that affects at least one function of daily living. However, these folks live with others who care for them in their daily lives. At times, the existence can be lonely for both caregivers and people with disabilities. Inclusive play areas give both of them the opportunity to get out of the house and enjoy the sunshine as well as potentially meet others for some muchneeded social interaction. All-abilities or all-access playgrounds are popping up across the world and throughout Connecticut. Thanks to caring parents and communities, these playground are designed to ensure that children of all ages and abilities have a safe place to play. These playgrounds are designed according to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines and typically use the Inclusive Play Guideline as a starting point for the creation of the play environments. The Inclusive Play Design Guide (AccessiblePlayground. net) was developed by a group of playground and child de32

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

velopment experts as an inspirational resource to guide the creation of outdoor play environments for people of all abilities. The team considers typically developing children; children with neurological disabilities such as autism; those with intellectual disabilities such as Down syndrome or fetal alcohol syndrome; children requiring wheelchairs or medical equipment; individuals with physical disabilities and/or social/emotional difficulties; and siblings, parents, grandparents, caregivers, teachers and other community members. They also take into consideration adults with disabilities; a playground is a good place for a recovering veteran to learn to use limbs again, enable stroke or Parkinson’s patients to get outdoor exercise safely, or allow adults with disabilities a judgment-free zone to play. Inclusive playgrounds provide a space for children to connect and interact with others they might not typically meet. Play allows children to explore and communicate on their own level without the guidance and direction of adults. Inclusive play areas mean that a typically developed child can interact with an autistic child or someone with limited physical abilities. This can help build understanding and empathy for others, and allow the differently-abled child to share what they can and can’t do in terms of play. Often times, if left to their own devices, the children will figure out a perfect way for them to play with one another. Sometimes the typically developed child can be the “hands and feet” while the differentlyabled child is the storyteller or “imaginer”. When her son Adam became sick with bacterial meningitis, the last thing Kate Mlodzinski was thinking about was building him a playground. He was in the hospital for four months, two of which he was in a coma. All his family was concerned about was keeping him alive. Their Connecticut community in Tolland rallied around the family bringing meals, helping around the house and surrounding the family with love. When Adam was finally able to return home, he was a different boy. He had lost his sight and experienced up to 10 epileptic seizures a day. The 15-year-old now had the abilities of a 7-year-old. A friend and neighbor, Alison Knybel, mentioned that the community still wanted to help. What began as “school bus stop conversations” about building a playground for kids with disabilities turned into Adam’s Adventure, an inclusive playground in Tolland. “Alison is really the driving force behind Adam’s Adventure,” says Mlodzinski. “She took the idea and ran with it. She researched different playgrounds around Connecticut and raised the money to make it happen.” Adam’s Adventure opened in May 2016, nearly six years after Knybel began her initial research. The all-accessible playground is wheelchair-friendly, featuring sponge-like flooring to soften falls, and a roller table that allows children to pull themselves out of their chairs and along the playscape. It also features a sensory board created by three University of Connecticut students. The playground is fenced in, making it safer for kids who have a tendency to run. “I think it’s a place where parents can not worry about their children and watch them having fun,” remarks Mlodzinski. “The joy, laughter, running around is good for everyone. People have said it’s easy to get to, fun and they can take their kids there for hours to play.” Adam himself recently returned to the playground named after him. He enjoyed play-

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ing on the swings and teeter-totter at a memorial service held at the playground for co-founder Knybel, who died unexpectedly this spring. “He had no idea the playground was named after him, or created because of him, but it was fun to watch him enjoy it,” his mother says. Kids are naturally curious; play allows them to explore that curiosity in age-appropriate ways. Inclusive play areas provide the space and opportunity for all levels of ability to interact, ask questions and better understand the world around them. It can provide education, inspiration and a long-lasting connection that neither would have found in other places. For instance, a wheelchair-enabled child may be able to watch a veteran practice walking on prosthetic legs at the playground. This not only levels the playing field but also creates empathy for others. Susan Jacoby, a psychiatric nurse practitioner and owner of Neuropsychology Consultants, is another mother of a special needs child who was inspired to create a much-needed resource in her community. When she realized there was no real support for families going through what she was experiencing with her child, she created Devon’s Place, an all-abilities access playground in Norwalk. Situated near Stepping Stones Children’s Museum, Devon’s place is an 85 percent accessible playground in the Fairfield County area. Remember, all-abilities play areas means these places are also perfect for able-bodied adults to “get their play on” too. Take a swing, slide the stress away and connect on a completely different level with the community. To locate all abilities playground in different areas of Connecticut, visit AccessiblePlayground.net. When traveling, search by state to find a playground in other locations as well. Many of these playgrounds are started and maintained by nonprofit organizations that are always looking for volunteers and supporters to help them keep their spaces open. Sheri Hatfield is a freelance writer, marketing professional and advocate for play who lives in Shelton with her son. Connect at Sheri@ DayDreamerConsulting.com.

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August 2017

Vision Readiness for School Visual Skills are Key to Learning and Confidence by Randy Schulman

ith children’s vision, we typically think pass-or-fail on school or pediatric screenings. What most people are not aware of is that these screenings typically only assess acuity or eyesight at distance, a gross defect in refractive error, or a need for strong glasses. Unfortunately, when parents receive the “pass” finding, they make an assumption that their children’s eyes are healthy and not interfering with learning. Aside from good distance eyesight, there are many

visual skills that are necessary in order to perform well in the classroom and on the playground. Vision is a complex process that is integrated with various other systems throughout the brain. It is connected to speech and language areas, and movement and proprioceptive centers; it directs how we move and communicate in the world. If the eyes are not working properly, many different aspects of a child’s life are affected, particularly learning, reading, writing and sports performance.

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Some of the visual skills needed for learning include seeing clearly at all distances (not just far away), keeping targets clear and shifting focus quickly for different locations. In addition to clear vision, we must be able to aim the eyes together and coordinate them as a team to be able to point where they need to look. We need to also keep them aimed at a given target so we have clear and single binocular vision. Only when the two eyes work in tandem do we have stereoscopic depth perception. Particularly for such tasks as reading and writing, it is crucial for the eyes to remain converged or pointed accurately. The eyes must be aimed up close and both eyes must remain focused to keep the print and paper clear and single. In order to read efficiently, the eyes must scan or track across the page smoothly and accurately while maintaining clear, single binocular vision. All of these basic visual skills, including focusing, eye teaming and tracking, are required in order to succeed in school. These skills develop over time and become efficient at particular ages. It takes time for those eye-brain connections to be made. Sometimes, the demands on the child are much greater than his/her visual readiness. For example, smooth and efficient tracking skills are not established until seven or eight years of age, with boys developing slightly later than girls. Yet our children are being asked to read at earlier ages. If the child does not have these basic skills in place when they begin reading and writing, they may struggle with early reading, have difficulty with writing and fall behind in school. Specifically, they may lose their place, re-read, skip words, reverse words and/or have poor reading comprehension. If they have difficulty focusing, they may find that words or letters go in and out of focus; it may take longer for them to shift their focus between near and far, such as when they are asked to copy notes from the blackboard. Some children see double and learn to ignore the image from one or the other eye or turn their head to block the double vision when reading. They just assume everyone else sees like they do and may not realize that blurred or double vision is not normal.

In addition to the basic skills, there are many higher level visual skills that develop over time and may not be fully developed until 10 to 12 years. These include visual motor integration (eyehand coordination), eye-body coordination, auditory visual integration (visualizing what is heard or read), and visual perceptual or processing skills (making sense of and interpreting what is seen). Such skills are necessary for learning to hold a pencil properly, following the pencil across the page, riding a bike, identifying sight words, following directions, understanding right and left, following multiple step directions and organizational abilities. When a child has difficulty with visual integrative or visual processing skills, they may struggle with many areas, including academics and sports performance. They may be behind in reading level, write crookedly, have difficulty with spelling, miss out on teacher instructions and struggle with homework. They may be clumsy, uncoordinated or poor at team or ball sports, and misread social cues. This may lead to poor selfesteem or confidence in their abilities.

Many children with learning disabilities, or attention deficit and autism spectrum disorders have delayed or inadequate visual skills. The learning challenges, inattention, poor eye contact and social difficulties may not be just due to those disorders; they may also be a reflection of poor visual skills, such as tracking, focusing, eye coordination, vision integration or processing. Luckily, there are ways to identify and treat vision problems hindering learning and performance in all areas of life. Behavioral or integrative optometrists are doctors of optometry that specialize in determining the visual abilities of the child and whether or not they are developmentally appropriate for their grade and school demands. They do multiple tests to determine eye movement, eyesight for different tasks, eye teaming, coordination and overall vision processing. The doctor can also determine the eye health and whether or not the child needs prescription glasses. Sometimes glasses are prescribed to help develop skills or reduce visual stress. Typically, these performance therapeutic glasses are only used for specific tasks

such as reading, writing or computer use. Another highly effective treatment option is vision therapy. Vision therapy entails a program of vision activities that will build and develop the child’s visual skills, and enhance the eye-brain connection. Therapy can be done in the office, typically on a weekly basis with a supportive home program, as well as guided home exercises and/or computer-based training. The child is re-evaluated after every 10 or so weekly sessions to individualize and build on the therapy program. Those that have completed vision therapy report improved speed and comprehension in reading, better math skills, improved spelling and a decrease in “homework wars”. An added bonus is better performance on the field and enhanced self-confidence. Randy Schulman, MS, OD, FCOVD, is a behavioral developmental optometrist with EyeCare Associates, PC, which has locations in Norwalk, Southport and Trumbull. Connect at CTEyecareAssociates.com. See ad, page 19.

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August 2017

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Hiking in nature is a ready way to reset frazzled nerves.

TAKE A HIKE Escape into Nature with a Day Trip by Marlaina Donato

o many, hiking means long-distance treks through forests or backpacking remote terrain. “In reality, it’s more about getting out into green areas close to home,” says Wesley Trimble, of the American Hiking Society. “It’s about immersion in nature.” Day hiking can be easily tailored to personal preferences and interests. “Excellent apps and websites list and describe trails in your area or community. We have a database on our site that’s helpful,” says Trimble (AmericanHiking.org). He’s personally high on old rail lines that have been converted to wide, accessible paths (RailsToTrails.us).

A Trail for Everyone Whatever our location, age or fitness level, a hike can provide opportunities for calming solitude or connecting with

people we care about. Individuals with disabilities can also get outdoors at accommodating trails such as those at Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, in Delaware. There’s always something to be learned in identifying wildlife and plants. “Families can enjoy time walking outdoors together in ways impossible in other settings,” observes Verna Gates, founder of Fresh Air Family, a Birmingham, Alabama, outdoor activities educational foundation. “Nature aids in well-being in many ways.” She points to studies cited at NatureAndForestTherapy.org/the-science.html that reveal how trees emit enzymes into the air that help improve our emotional and physical health. “When I lost a child, the only place I found solace was in nature. Sitting in a patch of wildflowers truly brought me back to living,” recalls Gates.

Explorers’ Heaven Following a lovely trail, much like inspired cooking, is as intriguing and delightful as we wish it to be. From wildflower paths to wine country trails, the great outdoors invites exploration of woodlands, glens, forests, mountain valleys, coastal areas, bayous, deserts and other terrain. Experienced day-trippers recommend revisiting favorite trails in specific seasons. “I love being in the natural world, be it New Jersey, Florida or Alaska. Every trail offers surprises,” marvels distance hiker Craig Romano (CraigRomano.com). As the author of several day hike guidebooks, he’s seen firsthand how, “Every part of the country offers different perspectives and forms of beauty. The greatest biological diversity in our country is found in the Great Smoky Mountains, where the rhododendrons are breathtaking in spring.” The world’s largest mapped cave system is in Kentucky’s Mammoth Cave National Park. Hiking to observe other subterranean wonders in Indiana or Virginia’s Natural Bridge Caverns is no less exhilarating than walking Alabama’s

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covered bridge trail or painter Georgia O’Keeffe’s Ghost Ranch country, in New Mexico. The Appalachian Trail, running between Maine and Georgia, attracts thousands of adventurous longdistance trekkers, but such trails also offer sections ideal for day hikes. Geomagnetic points in Arizona’s vortex region or America’s Stonehenge, in New Hampshire, afford unusual destinations. The wonders of California’s Sonoma County include Planet Walk, a scale model path that illustrates our solar system. The Crater of Diamonds State Park, in Arkansas, is the only place in the world where hikers can dig for diamonds and keep what they find, although quartz diamond sites (semiprecious stones less hard than diamonds) can be accessed at other U.S. locales. Coastal walks lead to discovering sea glass and shells. Arboretums in urban areas offer trails flush with local flora. Joining or starting a hiking club based on common interests is one way to go. “One of our guidebook series encourages outdoor enthusiasts to explore the natural world in their immediate backyards. This approach especially appeals to families, first-time trail users and athletes looking for a quick nature fix after work,” offers Helen Cherullo, publisher of Mountaineers Books (MountaineersBooks.org), a nonprofit committed to conservation and sustainable lifestyles. Wherever we venture, take nothing but pictures and leave nature untouched. Cherullo reminds us, “Connecting people to treasured natural landscapes leads to active engagement to preserve these places for future generations. The future of public lands—owned by every American citizen—is literally in our hands.” They deserve our vote.

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August 2017

INSPIRED

TABLE

inspiredtable Understanding Fallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bounty of Wild Plants and Mushrooms

he 3 Foragers will present a walk and talk about edible wild plants and mushrooms of autumn on August 26 at 10am. The three-hour event will be held at Flanders Nature Center & Land Trust (Facebook.com/FlandersNatureCenter) in Woodbury. As the seasons begin to change, the pending autumn season is a time of bounty and harvest for woodland creatures and foragers alike: nuts are falling to the forest floor, fruits are ripening, roots and tubers are thickening up and edible fungi can be found in astounding amounts. Learn how to identify, sustainably harvest and prepare the wild foods of autumn, including acorns, minty wintergreen leaves, golden honey mushrooms and maitake. Join The 3 Foragers as they teach the edible plants and fungi of autumn with their original photos and recipe ideas in an educational slideshow, and finish with a walk outside to put some of those newly learned skills to the test. The 3 Foragers are a family from southeastern Connecticut who have been identifying, photographing and cooking with the edible plants and fungi of New England for more than 12 years. Their blog, Facebook page (tinyurl.com/The3ForagersFB), and new book focus on family-friendly, environmentally sustainable harvest of both native and invasive species of plants. To register, call Flanders Nature Center and Land Trust at 203-263-3711. For more information, visit Facebook.com/Events/449395975395562. Location: 5 Church Hill Rd, Woodbury.

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oin the Northeast Organic Farming Association of Connecticut (CT NOFA) at the Community Recreation & Environmental Center in Haverford Township, from August 7 to 10 for the farming associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first accreditation course in Pennsylvania in over two years. The four-day course for land care professionals and environmental educators covers organic land care principles, practices, design and maintenance. By the end of the course, attendees will be able to incorporate land care methods and materials that respect natural ecology and the long-term health of the environment into their businesses or educational programs. The course is designed for professionals who have at least five years of experience and/or college-level science studies. Students should be familiar with plant identification and landscaping maintenance practices. The 30-hour curriculum covers site analysis, design and maintenance; hydrology; soil fundamentals; organic fertilizers; soil health; compost; lawn alternatives; mulches; invasive plants; planting and plant care; disease control; pest management; permaculture; and more. At the end of the course, students will take a 50-question, multiple-choice exam. Upon passing with a score of 70 percent or higher, students become an accredited organic land care professional (AOLCP), which is a marketable credential offering many benefits. It is $695 for the course, which includes the full course, daily lunches, an accreditation exam and a one-year supporter-level accreditation. A business-level accreditation, which includes online marketing, will cost an additional $75 for the current year. For more information about the accreditation course, call CT NOFA at 203-308-2584 or email Jeremy@OrganicLandCare.net.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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

Accepted Misfits

Tuna Turnaround

Lower Mercury Levels Tied to Drop in Coal Emissions Levels of highly toxic mercury contamination in Atlantic bluefin tuna are rapidly declining, a trend that has been linked to reduced mercury emissions in North America, according to a new study published in Environmental Science & Technology. Average mercury concentrations dropped by more than 2 percent per year, for a total decline of 19 percent between 2004 and 2012. Scientists believe that most of that reduction has occurred because of a shift away from coal, the major source of mercury emissions, to natural gas and renewable fuels. Pollution control requirements imposed by the federal government have also cut mercury emissions, but these have been rolled back or eliminated by President Trump’s commitment to “bring back coal.” Source: Scientific American

Due to customer requests and petitions, more stores are beginning to stock the one in five pieces of produce that never made the cut before due to quirky shapes or other blemishes. Often, these are displayed next to their better-looking, more expensive counterparts to give consumers an eco-friendly choice. The 133 billion pounds worth of misshapen or scarred fruits and vegetables annually plowed under, buried in a landfill or fed to livestock is sharply at odds with the reality that 48 million Americans face food insecurity. Whole Foods Market created a pilot program in some of its California stores, testing sales in April 2016 with Imperfect Produce (ImperfectProduce.com), a service that delivers to homes. Walmart brought weather-blemished apples to 300 of its Florida stores to kick off their imperfect role in the movement. Five Pittsburgh Giant Eagle stores call their program Produce with Personality, and focus on navel oranges, russet potatoes, peppers and apples. Fourteen Hannaford stores in Albany, New York, offer the Misfits line, while donating unsold produce to local nonprofits. Hy-Vee’s 242 stores, located in eight central states, rolled out the Misfits last December. For more information, visit EndFoodWaste.org.

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August 2017

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consciouseating

Backyard Pizza Party Grill Scrumptious Pizzas and Flatbreads

Tiny Pizzas with Big Flavor

by Claire O’Neil

ummer is high season for grilling when just about anything sizzled over high heat tastes great. Grill masters Karen Adler and Judith Fertig recently put this theory to the test when they fired up their grills—gas and charcoal—to cook bruschetta, panini, flatbreads and pizzas. The results tasted so good that they created a cookbook: Patio Pizzeria: Artisan Pizza and Flatbreads on the Grill. Here are a few pointers using a backyard charcoal-style approach, with toxin-free hardwood lump charcoal, or a barbecue gas grill. Grill grates can be

plain or fancy, from a pizza stone to a high-heat pizza oven—all can bring out that charcoal earthiness.

Great Grilled Breads

“No patio pizzeria repertoire is complete without a signature grilled bread. It’s one of the easiest and most flavorful appetizers ever,” says Adler. This dish starts with good whole grain bread, liberally brushed with extra-virgin olive oil on both sides, and then grilled and topped with any number of vegetable mixtures, from fresh sliced tomatoes to sautéed bell peppers or broccoli rabe

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

and garlic. “The bread slices should be big enough to manage on the grill grates with long-handled grill tongs,” she says. “Simply cook on each side until the bread has good grill marks, then add toppings.” For flatbread, Fertig suggests starting with a pound of fresh pizza dough—healthy grain, if preferred— cut into four pieces. Pat each piece into an oval on a floured surface. “The good thing about flatbread is that it can be just about any shape, so the pressure is off to make it perfectly round.” Brush each oval with olive oil before transferring it directly onto the hot grill grate. When the dough bubbles up like a pancake, turn it with grill tongs and cook the other side. Then top the grilled flatbread with mixtures like honey, pistachios and chive blossoms or freshly chopped herbs and grated pecorino cheese. “Grilled flatbread can go vegan, vegetarian or ‘omnivore-ean’,” she says.

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Another variation is to step up from flatbread to small, individual pizzas, or pizzettes. For this, use the same fresh pizza dough, but roll it into four perfect rounds. One by one, the rounds go on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brushed with olive oil. “Placing the dough on the oiled parchment paper first and then flipping it upside-down on the grill grates helps keep the dough’s shape better than placing it directly on the grates by hand. This quick flip-and-peel motion is easy once you do it a time or two. Keeping the pizzas small also makes them easier to maneuver on the grill,” advises Adler. After each pizzette bubbles up like a pancake, it needs to be turned and moved to the indirect, or no-heat, side of the grill. There, it gets pizza toppings and can sit for a while with the grill lid closed, so the toppings melt. Served with a fresh salad or summer fruit, a flatbread or pizzette makes for a perfect summer meal on the grill. Claire O’Neil is a freelance writer in Kansas City, MO.

Pizzeria Recipes inches above the grill, flip the circle of dough onto the hot side of the grill grates. Quickly peel off the parchment and close the lid. Grill the pizza for 2 to 3 minutes, or until it has good grill marks.

Baby Arugula, Ricotta, Sea Salt and Olive Oil Pizzas Yields: 4 (6-to-8-inch) pizza servings Fresh baby arugula on top gives this pizza a fresh first bite, with creamy, tangy, salty and grill-icious to follow. 1 cup ricotta cheese ¼ tsp dried red pepper flakes 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil ¼ tsp coarse sea salt Freshly ground black pepper 1 lb prepared pizza dough, garlic and herb-flavored, if possible; whole wheat, natural grain or gluten-free if preferred Unbleached all-purpose or gluten-free flour for rolling out and dusting Extra-virgin olive oil for brushing ¼ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese 4 cups baby arugula (about 6 oz)

Turn the pizza with tongs and move it to the indirect side. Spread the pizza with one-quarter of the ricotta and sprinkle with one-quarter of the Pecorino Romano. Cover and grill for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted. Repeat the process with the other pizzas. To serve, top each pizza with 1 cup of arugula.

Broccoli Rabe and Garlic Bruschetta Yields: 8 servings Hearty greens such as broccoli rabe, kale, Swiss chard and spinach are interchangeable here. A quick sauté until greens are wilted keeps dark colors brilliant. Pile the greens, still dripping with olive oil, atop the toasted bread for an appetizer or delicious side with pasta or pizza. For the sautéed broccoli rabe: 8 oz broccoli rabe, chopped 1 large garlic clove, thinly sliced 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 1 /8 tsp kosher or sea salt Pinch of red pepper flakes (less than 1/8 tsp)

For the bruschetta: 8 slices (½-inch-thick) of Italian country (or gluten-free) bread 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil For the sautéed broccoli rabe, in a large skillet on the stovetop, heat 2 tablespoons of water and add the broccoli rabe and garlic. Cook until soft, 6 to 8 minutes. Drizzle with the olive oil and season with the red pepper flakes and salt. Adjust the seasonings to taste. For the bruschetta, prepare a medium-hot fire in the grill. Brush each slice with the olive oil and grill 1 to 2 minutes per side, or until it has good grill marks. Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the wilted broccoli rabe on each bruschetta and serve warm. Source: Patio Pizzeria, by Karen Adler and Judith Fertig; adapted, with the permission of Running Press.

Stir together the ricotta, red pepper flakes and olive oil in a small bowl and adjust the seasonings to taste. Set aside. Prepare an indirect medium-hot fire in the grill, with heat on one side and no heat on the other. Divide the dough into four portions. On a floured surface, pat or roll each portion into a 6-to-8-inchdiameter circle. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Brush olive oil into a circle that’s a little larger than a pizza, and then place a pizza on the oiled circle. Brush the top of the pizza with olive oil.

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August 2017

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FEAST IN THE FIELDS

The Rise of Pop-Up Organic Dining

by John D. Ivanko and Lisa Kivirist

he flip side of enjoying farm to table is taking the table to the farm. So-called “pop-up feasts” are booming at farms throughout the country during growing and harvest seasons. While the format varies, dinners are typically hosted on working rural or urban farms, last about three hours and include aperitifs and a tour before the meal. Wine pairings or beer tastings and live music may be among the enticing activities offered. Gabriele Marewski, owner of Paradise Farms, near Miami, Florida, was a pioneering forerunner of the trend. For 10 years prior to retirement, she hosted more than 50 chefs, served thousands of guests an organic Dinner in Paradise and raised more than $50,000 for area charities. Periodic onsite dinners continue (ParadiseFarms.net). “Many chefs are active in farm-to-table dinners on the West Coast. We also see participation among wineries, orchards, cheese makers and breweries,” says A.K. Crump, CEO of TasteTV, in San Francisco, which also supervises PopUpRestaurants.com. “People like to meet the meal maker and know more about the origin of what they eat.” “I started Dinner on the Farm nine years ago to create unique experiences that connect people to the places their food is grown and the people that grow them,” says Monica Walch, whose pop-up dinners are served picnic-style for friends and families that bring their own tableware. Her company’s Midwest events, usually offered on Minnesota and Wisconsin farms, always feature local chefs, food ingredients and breweries (DinnerOnTheFarm.com). “There’s nothing like being comfortably seated in the field where your food is growing and having the opportunity to enjoy it just hours after it’s been picked. Then, add in oneon-one conversations with your chef, brewer and farmer, as well as like-minded community members,” observes Walch, who grew up on an organic dairy farm in Minnesota. Setting the bar for high-end, white tablecloth, adults-only communal events, Outstanding in the Field tours the country 42

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

to offer a taste of fresh, local cuisine prepared by top regional chefs. They’re known for serving meals on long tables set up in fields on prairie ranches, in olive groves or fruit orchards, as well as at urban rooftop farms or near vegetable row crops. “Our mission is to get folks out to the farm and honor the people whose good work brings nourishment to the table,” says organization founder and chef/artist Jim Denevan. More than 90, five-hour events that include appetizers and a guided farm tour are being held all the way through November in more than a dozen states (see OutstandingInTheField.com). “Some of our most popular events feature farmers of the sea, and are set alongside the ocean or other bodies of water,” adds Lisa Supple, publicist for the company. “They feature local fisher people and oyster and abalone farmers.” “Epicurean San Diego offers pop-up farm dinner events at Dickinson Farm, in National City, California,” explains owner Stephanie Parker (EpicureanSanDiego.com). “We strive to completely source our produce from the farm.” The veteran-owned, certified organic Dickinson Farm features heirloom fruits, vegetables and herbs grown on a large city lot. “We have focused on urban farms to inspire more people to grow their own food and to show that you don’t have to live on a huge piece of property in the countryside,” Parker notes. Some pop-up feasts are managed directly by local farmers in partnership with lead chefs. Others serve as annual fundraising events, like The Foodshed Alliance’s Farm to Fork Dinner and Wine Tasting, now in its seventh year (Tinyurl.com/ Foodshed-AllianceFarm2Fork). It’s held at the Alba Vineyard, in Milford, New Jersey, which practices renewable viticulture. “We already have eight chefs lined up to prepare an eightcourse, locally sourced, wine-pairing dinner served among the vines,” explains Kendrya Close, executive director of the alliance. Expert winemakers select each course’s pairing. “We’re proud to be the hardworking roadies that set the stage for America’s rock star farmers,” says Denevan. John Ivanko and Lisa Kivirist, co-authors of ECOpreneuring and Farmstead Chef, operate the Inn Serendipity, in Browntown, WI.

CONNECTICUT FARM DINING DINNERS AT THE FARM Barberry Hill Farm • 353 Boston Post Rd, Madison July 26-30, 2017 White Gate Farm • Upper Pattagansett Rd, East Lyme August 9-13, 2017 (August 10 is sold out) Visit tinyurl.com/DinnersAtTheFarmAug17 for details. MAX RESTAURANT GROUP CHEF TO FARM Rosedale Farms • 25 E Weatogue St, Simsbury August 10 • Barbecue, bluegrass and beer August 31 • A Savoy "road show" at the height of tomato season Visit MaxChefToFarm.com for details and other events. BACK 40 FARM POTLUCK 153 Lower Church Hill Rd, Washington Depot August 6, from 4 - 6 pm Reserve at NewCTFarmers.com/Category/Events.

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educationspotlight

Empowerment & Transformative Learning at The Graduate Institute C. Norman Shealy, M.D., Ph.D.

he Graduate Institute’s (TGI) mission is to provide transformative education based on an integrative and holistic perspective. The faculty is comprised of scholars who are leading experts in the fields of integrative medicine, consciousness studies, organizational leadership, eco-therapy, learning and thinking, positive psychology, and writing and oral traditions.

MEET THE MASTERS

Dr. Bernie Siegel is an internationally recognized expert in the field of cancer treatment and complementary, holistic medicine. A retired Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital pediatric surgeon, he writes on the relationship between the patient and the healing process, and is known for his best-selling book, Love, Medicine and Miracles. C. Norman Shealy, MD, PhD, a graduate of Duke Medical School, is

the founder and first president of the American Holistic Medical Association. He is an accomplished neurosurgeon and a pioneer in pain medicine and energy. Shealy has lectured worldwide, appeared on numerous national television programs and authored 23 books. Dr. Henry Grayson, an expert in mindbody-spirit psychology, received his PhD in psychology from Boston University and a postdoctoral certificate in psychotherapy and psychoanalysis. He has studied neuropsychology, psychotherapy, EFT, EMDR and other therapies in addition to quantum physics and spiritual philosophies. His background led him to his work in scientifically and spiritually based mind-body energy psychology and his creation of Synergetic Therapy. Grayson is the author of several books.

Caroline Myss is a world-renowned intuitive and respected lecturer in the field of health, intuition and contemporary spirituality as well as the author of several New York Times best-sellers. Jeremy Youst, MS, is a certified Somatic Breath Therapy practitioner and the founder/director of the Power of Breath Institute in Spofford, New Hampshire. He brings 21st century therapeutic breathwork, which is integrally informed and grounded in science, to the world. Joan Palmer, who has a master’s in human nutrition, is the founder and director of The Institute of Sustainable Nutrition. She teaches the health benefits of using real food, lifestyle, environment, herbs and attitude to find the path back to health.

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tional, alternative and complementary approaches. The curriculum includes meditation and stress management; homeopathy; nutrition; sound and art therapies; breath work therapy; and naturopathic, Chinese, ayurveda and energy medicines. Learning and Thinking (MALT) is a 36-credit degree program that embraces a philosophy of education rooted in relationship, holism and meaning. The program is dedicated to co-creating new meaning within a constructivist and transdisciplinary context. Consciousness Studies and Transpersonal Psychology is a 36-credit degree program that explores the nature, role and development of human consciousness and transpersonal phenomena. Different perspectives are holistically integrated into the coursework, including psychological and spiritual, western and eastern, and epistemological and clinical. TGI’s Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership program approaches leadership as both an art and a science. Students develop their abilities to lead, discover personal leadership qualities, and affect real and sustainable change. The faculty helps each student identify, define and achieve their vision of leadership—in the community, on the job or even at home. Throughout the Writing and the Oral Tradition program, students are encouraged to develop their own individual writing voice and style. They learn how stories influence the way we think, feel, act and behave; explore the creative process and their own creativity; and look at publishing or otherwise bringing their stories to life. In the nine-month certificate program in Ecotherapy and Cultural Sustainability, students engage in a variety of activities that enhance their self-sufficiency and capacity for creating sustainable cultures. The Transformative Coach Training Program, approved by the International Coach Federation, is focused on the tools to become an effective coach by learning a transformative way of being while in relationship with others. To learn about The Graduate Institute’s other programs, visit Learn.edu or call 203-874-4252. See ad, page 19.

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Our body does not store vitamin C, so we need at least 2,000 milligrams daily to maintain good health. A study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found that vitamin C can reduce damage caused by sleep apnea. High-content foods include bell peppers, dark leafy greens, kiwi fruit, broccoli, berries, citrus fruits, tomatoes, peas and papayas.

4 Get a Good Night’s Sleep Five Solutions for Sleep Apnea by Lloyd Jenkins

n estimated 18 million people in the U.S. suffer from some form of sleep apnea. From the Greek expression for “want of breath,” sleep apnea causes cessation of breathing during the night. Bouts usually last from 10 to 30 seconds and can occur from just a few times to several hundred. The main cause is the throat muscles becoming too relaxed during sleep and constricting the airway. Two out of four people with the condition do not even realize they are sleep deprived due to apnea, and thus are at greater risk of suffering from both short-term ailments such as migraines or extreme fatigue, and long-term effects that include stroke and heart disease.

Lose Weight via Diet and Exercise Most people find the problem clears up or is greatly improved when they lose weight. One of the easiest and healthiest ways is eating only fruit from morning until noon, and then eating healthy, nutritious meals for lunch and dinner. Avoid processed, sugar-laden and deep-fried foods. Exercise at least four times a week. Doing moderate exercise for just 40 minutes has been shown to significantly reduce sleep apnea (Sleep journal). Use a

medicine ball to follow a trainer tutorial at Tinyurl.com/25-MinMedicineBallWorkout. A mini-trampoline also offers a safe and effective workout. A brisk 20-to-30-minute daily walk is a must for better sleep.

Sleep on Either Side Lying on the back encourages throat muscles to close up and the tongue to fall toward the back of the throat. Shifting onto one side reduces this discomfort and potential apnea episodes. Using one pillow beneath the head allows the neck to rest at a more natural angle, rather than pushing the chin toward the chest, which restricts the airway.

Vitamins D and C Almost everyone is deficient in vitamin D, even many in sunny regions, reports Dr. Joseph Mercola in his report, The Amazing Wonder Nutrient. Wisely managed sun exposure supplies vitamin D—no more than 20 minutes a day, 10 minutes on each side—without suntan lotion. Alternatively, a high-dose of a quality vitamin D supplement measuring 5,000 international units is adequate, but always take it along with vitamin K2, which helps the body process calcium properly to avoid overdose problems.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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Magnesium, the Master Mineral From 70 to 80 percent of mankind is deficient in magnesium, which has been connected with prevention of degenerative diseases and mental health and is often the missing mineral in an individual’s wellness equation, according to Enviromedica’s Ancient Minerals. It also regulates muscle function, including those in the upper throat involved with apnea. Organic foods and farmers’ market offerings may have higher levels of magnesium, especially those packed with green chlorophyll. Liquid chlorophyll is available in most health stores. Start by drinking one glass (250 milliliters) per day for a week, and then take two tablespoons daily. Spinach, chard, pumpkin seeds, yogurt, kefir, almonds, black beans, avocados, figs, bananas and dark chocolate (avoid brands with white sugar) are good sources.

Helpful Natural Medicines n Just before bedtime, consume one teaspoon of olive oil (or organic honey) combined with three drops of lavender essential oil. n Supplement with serotonin precursor 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan), which complements magnesium. n One of the best pure sources of omega-3—a top remedy for sleep apnea by protecting cells from stress—is krill oil (Alternative Medicine Review). Sleep apnea causes long-term oxidative stress and puts severe demands on the body, which is thought to deplete omega-3 levels. Lloyd Jenkins is a certified naturopath native to Canada and owner of the Budwig Cancer Clinic, in Malaga, Spain. He’s the author of seven books and many articles on treating common diseases using natural therapies.

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naturallyhealthypet Pet Super Bowl Sold to Company with Connecticut Roots 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

tratford-based Pet Super Bowl has been sold to Thomaston Feed, an independent pet supply company with Connecticut locations in Thomaston, Cheshire and Brookfield, and another location in Brookvale, New Jersey. “We believe that their experience, length of time they've conducted business in the pet industry, very similar product mix, and emphasis on customer service at fair prices will fall in line with Lee’s philosophy of pet care and support of the local, loyal customers that have grown to be friends throughout the years. It has been an emotional roller coaster for the family and people who knew Lee since his passing. Thank you to everyone who has supported Pet Super Bowl all these years. We pass the baton—with confidence—to a company that will honor all his hard work throughout the years and continue to serve you and your wonderful pets,” says Elizabeth Baghdady, Lee Baghdady’s wife. Mark Poveromo, the owner of Thomaston Feed, has been in business for over 25 years. He authored To Your Dog's Health, a book about canine nutrition and pet food industry trends. Poveromo also created the Canis line of raw food in addition to grain-free biscuits baked in California that contain organic ingredients. “I knew Lee on a professional basis and was always impressed by his business savvy including, but not restricted to, his tremendous rapport with his customers. I was saddened to hear of his passing as Lee and I were the two ‘old timers’ in this tough industry here,” says Poveromo. “Despite the aggressiveness of online stores and big box stores, Lee continued to strive. He was a pioneer in the industry; I have big shoes to try to fill. I look forward to meeting all of his customers…I have put one of my best employees in to run the store for me. Many will recognize Josh Merril from my Thomaston Store.” The store will have an official grand reopening in the fall after acclimating the Stratford location to Thomaston Feed’s diversity of products. For more information, call 203-377-0821 or visit the store’s new Facebook page at Facebook.com/TFStratford. Location: 1400 W Broad St, Stratford.

Earth Animal Takes Best in Show

arth Animal was awarded First Place – BEST IN SHOW in the natural pet category at the 2017 Global Pet Expo for their new product, Pork No-Hide dog chews. Pork is the fourth flavor in this award-winning line of dog chews. The inspiration for No-Hides was to create a treat that will keep dogs busy, that will help promote and maintain healthy teeth and gums, and, most importantly, that is truly nutritious and very digestible. The chews are 100 percent free of rawhide. They are made with high quality, human-grade ingredients. The natural No-Hide proteins have been carefully rolled, cooked and dried in a unique way to make them long-lasting. A laboratory analysis showed No-Hide Chews are 61 percent digestible in simulated intestinal juices after eight hours versus only 6 percent for rawhide in those same juices. Earth Animal No-Hide Chews are sourced and produced in a U.S. human-grade processing facility with American grass-fed proteins and wild caught salmon; there are no added hormones, chemicals, additives, bleaches or formaldehydes. Earth Animal’s other three dog chew flavors are grass-fed beef, grass-fed chicken and wild-caught salmon. For more information or to order online, visit EarthAnimal.com. Location: Earth Animal, 606 Post Rd East, Westport.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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• Emotional support dogs are trained to provide emotional support to one individual.

Helper Dog Varieties

Service, Therapy and Emotional Support Differ by Mary Oquendo

hen we watch two giggling teenagers pull into a handicapped parking spot and run into the store, it’s pretty easy to figure out they are misusing a courtesy designed to help disabled people. It can be far more difficult to make a snap judgment on service dogs, since service vests can be purchased online and the law forbids asking for proof.

Service dogs undergo from one to two years of specific training that can cost around $50,000 in order to do their job. They are the only category of helper dogs that is protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Service dogs can go anywhere people can go. But here is where a problem arises; according to the ADA, a person does not have to disclose anything other than the fact that this dog is a service dog. Depending on the state, a person can face fines or jail time of up to six months for misrepresenting a personal dog as a service dog. On the other hand, fines can reach thousands of dollars for interfering with a legitimate service dog. Therapy dogs may attend formal classes, though it is not a requirement. In order to get an official therapy dog certification, they must first get their Canine Good Citizen (CGC) designation. CGC is a 10-step test that ensures the dog is well behaved and responsive to its handler. Dog trainers can work with a dog towards CGC, and therapy dog designations. They can then undergo therapy dog evaluation testing through one of the official organizations. Emotional support dogs do not require any training. A medical doctor just needs to certify that someone’s personal dog is necessary for their medical well-being. Therapy and emotional support dogs do not have automatic access to public locations such as airports, stores and restaurants. Service dogs, as well as some therapy dogs, are trained to behave in public and have a job to do. They should not be approached without permission nor will they approach you unless they are therapy dogs in the proper setting. A “service” dog that is poorly behaved or overly friendly is taking advantage of the protections that service dogs need in order to do their jobs. It is a great disservice to those people whose lives may depend on their service pet being with them at all times. Mary Oquendo is a Reiki master, advanced crystal master and certified master tech pet first aid instructor. She is the owner of Hands and Paws Reiki for All. She can be reached at HandsAndPawsReiki.com. See ad, page 51.

THREE TYPES OF HELPER DOGS

• Service dogs are specifically trained to help a person with a specific disability. They can be trained to detect impending seizures, sense drops or spikes in blood sugar, act as a guide for the blind, or help with many other life-threatening or harmful conditions. • Therapy dogs are trained to provide emotional support to large groups of people or those in institutions. They are used in nursing homes to improve the quality of life of the elderly residents, in schools settings after traumatic events and hospitals to visit children as well as juvenile detention facilities, group homes, dialysis clinics, rehab facilities and libraries.

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DECODING DOG BODY TALK Three Signals of Anxiety by Susan Briggs

amily dogs frequently accompany us on errands and outings away from their familiar home environment and we want them to enjoy these expeditions, so understanding their view of the world is important. To a dog, every experience is either familiar or unfamiliar. The first

time they encounter a new sound, place or person, they may feel anxious. We can help with the adjustment by introducing them slowly to each new experience and step aside to provide them distance or space to observe it first at their own pace. Knowing the “tells” that signal

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when a dog is comfortable or uncomfortable goes a long way to a harmonious experience. Allison Culver, assistant director of The Lightfoot Way holistic animal learning center, in Houston, remarks, “Knowing how to communicate with your animal can save a lot of heartache.” With a bit of applied attention, we can readily learn to understand the changes in canine body posture and behavior that communicate their emotional state. Start by observing the dog’s posture when they are relaxed at home. It’s likely that their weight is balanced on all four legs and their mouth is slightly open; movement is relaxed, loose and agile. When a dog feels happy or playful, notice how their ears may perk up or tilt slightly forward. Their tail might rise and wag, and they may emit a cheerful bark. Using their visual and audio demeanor as a baseline prepares us to be alert for three secret tells that signal a change in their emotion. Closing their mouth routinely occurs when a dog is unsure or anxious. When their mouth remains closed for a minute or more, it’s a sure clue that they need more time to process information. Lip licking such as quick flicks of the tongue is meant to appease and may prevent an uncomfortable situation from escalating into anything resembling a confrontation. Dogs do it with each other and with us, too. A look away that avoids direct eye contact likewise signals that a dog is urgently processing their current environment. Norwegian dog trainer Turid Rugaas, author of On Talking Terms with Dogs: Calming Signals, identifies the lip licking and averting of the eyes as selfcalming behaviors. She affirms, “When dogs are stressed by the environment, they start using calming signals to ease the stress.” When this happens, first try creating more space or distance between the dog and any perceived threat; this may return them to their body language norm. If not, consider using holistic calming aids like a properly mixed lavender essential oil spray or Bach Rescue Remedy Pet flower essences, keeping

these well away from their face. Also try mentally engaging the dog with learned cues. A quick game of sit, down, sit plus high-five allows them to engage in a familiar activity while they adjust to a new environment. If the pet does not respond to normal cues and continues to display multiple stress signals for an extended period, leave the scene altogether. Their anxiety hasn’t been relieved. If it’s still important that the dog learns to enjoy the troubling environment, work with a professional trainer that uses positive reinforcement tools to aid the transition (see PetProfessionalGuild.com or APDT.com). The trainer will assist in creating a plan that allows the pet to adjust at a pace that allows them to remain comfortable. By observing a dog’s posture, we can be confident of choosing mutually good outings. Susan Briggs, of Houston, TX, is co-author of Off-Leash Dog Play: A Complete Guide to Safety & Fun, co-founder of The Dog Gurus and owner of Crystal Canine (CrystalCanine.com).

How strange that nature does not knock, and yet does not intrude! ~Emily Dickinson

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LOOKING GLASS ANIMAL RESCUE Ridgefield LGARinc.org On Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

NFSAW

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

HOLISTIC MOBILE GROOMING

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 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 lowcost incentives to nonprofit rescue groups. Pit bulls and mixes are welcome at an even more reduced rate, and the clinic offers spay/neuter and vaccine discounts for feral cats. See ad, page 51.

PET ASSISTANCE, INC

PO Box 2015, New Preston 860-355-PETS • GetaPet@gmail.com PetAssistanceInc.org Pet Assistance helps keep pets in their homes in times of financial and medical crises, providing emergency veterinary subsidies to pet owners in financial need. We only give grants for pets that have a good prognosis, unless the knowledge we gain from the treatment or surgery may help future animals in need.

MARY OQUENDO

203-994-5308 Mary@PawsitivelyPretty.com MaryOquendo.com Pet grooming in a relaxed one-on-one environment in your driveway by a leader in the holistic grooming industry. Mary also offers Reiki and crystal therapy for your beloved pets. See ad, page 51.

PET ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY INC (PAWS)

504 Main Ave, Norwalk 203-750-9572 PAWSCT.org

PET PROTECTORS

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

RIDGEFIELD OPERATION FOR ANIMAL RESCUE (ROAR)

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

STRAYS AND OTHERS

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

UNLEASH YOUR EARNING POTENTIAL Fetch new customers by advertising in Natural Awakenings’ Naturally Healthy Pet monthly section

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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call 203-885-4674 or email FFCAdvertising@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com. Deadline for ads: the 12th of the month. 54

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calendarofevents

markyourcalendar

Magazine calendar events must be received by August 12 (for September issue) and adhere to our guidelines. All calendar submissions must be entered online at eNaturalAwakenings.com: click on “submit calendar” at the very top of the page. TUESDAY, AUGUST 1

TLC Networking Breakfast – 8:30-10am. Are you a healthy living professional/entrepreneur looking for your tribe? The TLC Center is a vibrant, supportive and growing community celebrating 20 years in Norwalk. Bring a friend, your business cards and join us for a fun morning of connecting. Free. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-560-9566. TLCBethLeas@gmail.com. TLCCenter.com.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 2

Reiki Review and Reattunement – 7-9pm. Ready to reconnect to the Reiki energy? Beth Leas, Reiki master for 25+ years, provides support for those still new to their Reiki practice, or need a jumpstart after some time away, or who want a Reiki re-attunement. Open to all levels Reiki students/masters. $50. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. TLCBethLeas@gmail.com. BethLeas.com.

markyourcalendar Join Yogi and Astrologer Michele Leigh at Ah Yoga Eclipse Yoga Monday, August 21 • 1:30-3pm Prepare for the full solar eclipse with rooftop yoga! To honor this dramatic event in the sign of Leo we will move through poses focused on activating our lioness spirit. Each participant will light a white candle to awaken fire energy as we pause and reflect under the darkening sky. On the rooftop, weather permitting (otherwise in studio)

Yogastrology Wednesdays • 4:30pm Classes begin August 2nd Yogastrology is the fusion of a slow-flow, gentle yoga practice enriched by astrological wisdom. Tap into the energy of the zodiac wheel and connect to the natural rhythms of the sun and the moon. $35 per person, space limited ah Yoga 65 Bank St, New Milford Signup at AhYogaCenter.com

FRIDAY, AUGUST 4

Reiki Level 1 Workshop – 10am–5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki master (20 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. 2 manuals and certificate. $125. Angelic Healing Center for Reiki, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 5

Reiki 1 Certification Training – 9am-1pm. Join Beth Leas, Reiki master for 25+years, for an enlightening and experiential certification training in Usui Reiki, a Japanese healing art, facilitating stress reduction, relaxation and promoting physical and spiritual healing. Learn self-healing as well as protocol for working with others. $245. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. TLCBethLeas@ gmail.com. BethLeas.com.

Reiki 1st Degree Workshop — 9:30am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki master (20 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. 2 manuals and certificate. $125. Angelic Healing Center for Reiki, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@ snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com. Chaski Fest Danbury – 1:30-10:30pm. Conscious gathering of artists, activists, community members and organizations united to protect our planet. Chaski Fest is a day of live music, dance, art and vendors to strengthen the local network of environmentally conscious community members. Free. A Common Ground Community Arts Center, 33 Crosby St, Danbury. 203-448-9886. WorldConsciousPactNortheast@gmail.com. WorldConsciousPact.org.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 6

Horse Wisdom Circle – 6:30-8pm. Come experience horses in a new way at the full moon Horse Wisdom Circle. Sit quietly together and enjoy the horses’ presence, peace and energy in the serene wooded setting of Possibilities Farm. Space is limited so pre-registration is required. $30. Possibilities Farm, Wilton, 203-210-7484. PossibilitiesFarm@ gmail.com. PossibilitiesFarm.com.

MONDAY, AUGUST 7

Full Moon Meditation – 7-8:30pm. The Full Moon is a time of celebration and gratitude. Beth Leas leads us in a guided meditation to discover inner peace and harmony, and connecting with the rhythm of the universe. Perfect for everyone - from beginners to experienced meditators. $20. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. TLCBethLeas@gmail.com. BethLeas.com.

Albertson Memorial Church August Events Spiritual/Psyshic Fair Saturday, August 5 • Noon-5pm • $35+ Psychometry With Chris DeSerio, MA, CHt, Trance Medium, Energy Healer and Metaphysical Teacher Sunday, August 6 • 1-3pm • $35 Platform Mediumship With Chris DeSerio Saturday, August 12 • 10am- 6pm • $125 Love Expansion Concert & Meditation With David Young Sunday, August 20 • 1-3:30pm • $35 Chakra Clearing With Kathleen James/BobbyKitsios Sunday, August 27 • 1-3pm • $20 Albertson Memorial Church 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich Call to Register: 203-556-9521 AlbertsonChurch@gmail.com AlbertsonChurch.org

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 9

Plant Wisdom Wednesday: Heart Remedies – 6:30-8:30pm. Monthly community herbal workshop open to everyone. Each month we pick a different topic and most months you’ll go home with an herbal remedy. August workshop: herbal remedies and simple practices for the heart. $25/pre-registration; $30/at the door. Twin Star Community Apothecary, 57 Bank St, New Milford. 203-460-2854. BekahTwinsStar@gmail.com. TwinStarTribe.com. Free Introduction to Reiki – 7-8pm. This is the place to start if you’re simply curious about Reiki or interested in learning more about how to heal yourself and others. Beth Leas will share 25 years experience using Reiki in this fun, explorative and interesting evening. Free. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. TLCBethLeas@gmail. com. BethLeas.com.

markyourcalendar Chaski Fest and A Common Ground Community Arts Center present

Summer EcoFest August 5 • 1-10pm Support local expression and social action! A day of live music, art and activism to strengthen the network of environmentally conscious community members. A Common Ground 33 Crosby St, Danbury ACommonGround.net

eNaturalAwakenings.com

August 2017

calendarofevents FRIDAY, AUGUST 11

TLC Tarot Evening – 7-9pm. What’s in the cards for you? Find out during this playful event designed for everyone from novices to long-time tarot friends. Explore the tarot or develop a deeper relationship with the cards. Receive a reading from Beth Leas. Every month is a unique experience. Bring a deck or use on of ours. $40. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. TLCBethLeas@gmail. com. BethLeas.com.

markyourcalendar Serving up the best of summer!

Connecticut Open presented by United Technologies

August 16-26 Featuring top ranked women’s tennis players from around the world, special events and fun for all ages.

MONDAY, AUGUST 14

Create a Vision Board to Your Desires – 7-9pm. Do you have a vision board? Jack Canfield says they are one of the most valuable visualization tools because they represent your dreams, your goals, your ideal life. Join us as you create your own Vision Board, which will lead you to the hidden side of your authentic self. $50. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. TLCBethLeas@ gmail.com. BethLeas.com.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 19

Afternoon Readings in the Salt Cave – With David Young. Call for times. $30. Salt of the Earth Therapeutic Spa, 787 Main St, Woodbury. 203-586-1172. NaturalSaltHealing.com.

A Course in Miracles Event – 10am-3pm. With Donna Marie Cary and Joan Goss. Let Donna lead you through song to the place in your heart that knows the real You. Joan will remind you of who you are and whose you really are. Through reminders, meditation and song you will have a beatific and unforgettable experience. $50. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-921-8654. JoanGoss1127@gmail.com. ACourseInMiraclesWithJoan.com. Awakening the Senses – 11am-4pm. Come and experience our newest products, services and therapies including professional organic spray tanning (in 10 minutes), new infrared portable sauna, Ayurveda therapies and more. $20/exchange for all

CT Tennis Center at Yale • New Haven TICKETS ON SALE NOW! 855-464-8366 services offered. Salt of the Earth Sanctuary Healing Arts, 346 Main St, Woodbury. 203-405-2241. NaturalSaltHealing.com.

Spiritual Musical Performance by David Young – 7pm. David will play his guitar and flutes. $30/ advance. $35/at the door. Salt of the Earth Sanctuary Healing Arts, 346 Main St, Woodbury. 203-4052241. NaturalSaltHealing.com.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 20

Reiki II: The Second Degree – Noon–5pm. This Second Level workshop is open to anyone who has completed the First Level and wishes to dedicate themselves to a higher level of attainment. You will be given the 3 Sacred Reiki Symbols and instructed on their use and proper application. Pre-register to attend. $225. Acupuncture Works, 132A St, Rt 37, New Fairfield. 845-494-0090. Reiki4Wellness@aol. com. AcupunctureFeelsGood.com.

Horse Wisdom Circle – 6:30-8pm. Come experience horses in a new way at the new moon Horse Wisdom Circle. Sit quietly together and enjoy the horses’ presence, peace and energy in the serene wooded setting of Possibilities Farm. Space is limited, pre-registration is required. $30. Possibilities Farm, Wilton. 203-210-7484. PossibilitiesFarm@ gmail.com. PossibilitiesFarm.com.

MONDAY, AUGUST 21

Eclipse Yoga – 1:30-3pm. Join Michele Leigh on the rooftop and prepare for the full solar eclipse. To honor this dramatic event in the sign of Leo, we will move through poses focused on activating our lioness spirit. Then each participant will light a white candle to awaken the fire energy as we pause and reflect under the darkening sky. $35. ah Yoga, New Milford, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 203-948-9347. DarkMoonAstrology@gmail.com. DarkMoonAstrology.com.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 22

Nothing you wear is more important than your smile. ~Connie Stevens 56

Health Talks: Back to School-Keeping Kids Healthy – 7-8pm. With Dr. Jill Kenney. Ingels Family Health monthly health talks. Please RSVP, seating is limited. Free. Ingels Family Health, 22 Fairfield Pl, Fairfield. 203-254-9957. Info@DarinIngelsND.com. DarinIngelsND.com.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

natural awakenings

THURSDAY, AUGUST 24

TLC Healing Circle/Reiki Share – 7-8:30pm. Curious about energy healing? Looking for renewed health and wellbeing? Everyone from the curious to seasoned practitioners of all modalities and levels are welcome here. Healing meditation with Beth Leas and an opportunity to receive and/or give energy work. $20. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. TLCBethLeas@gmail. com. BethLeas.com.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 25

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

markyourcalendar NEW DATES: 13th Octave LA HO CHI Training

The Most Powerful Healing on the Planet with Eilis Philpott, Soul Healing Journey, LLC Friday, Sept 22 (evening), Saturday, Sept 23 and Sunday, Sept 24 This magnificent gift is the anchoring of our divinity in physicality, as we move from the ascension process to the creation process. 13th Octave LaHoChi is the next step in energy healing – a quantum leap available now to the healers and people of Nova Earth. Inspired Soul Studio (private yoga barn), 11 Tory Ln, Newtown $350, including all materials $100 deposit required to register Registration Required • 203-767-5954 Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com Register at 13th Octave LaHoChi Training

markyourcalendar Become an Aerial Fitness Instructor Coming August 26 for 7 Days Only! Become a certified AERIAL/FITNESS Instructor! For the first time in CT, Skybody System and LoVega Fitness and Wellness are teaming to offer a 7-Day, 60-Hour Teacher Certification Course in Aerial Yoga/Fitness. Teacher Training Tuition: $1,250 Visit LoVegaFitness.com/Teacher-Training LoVega Fitness & Wellness - Pop Up Studio 354 Heights Rd, Darien 646-739-6216 • Info@LoVegaFitness.com

ongoingcalendar markyourcalendar Dream Playshop September 16 • 10am- 5:30pm Leaders Dianne Frost, PhD and Theresa Crisci, LMT, will facilitate and encourage attendees to play and nourish themselves in the field of dreams. Find soul medicine in sleeping dreams to enliven waking reality. Bring lunch and a writing pad. $125 per person Unity Center 3 Main St, #1, Norwalk For more information and to register, visit TotalBalanceLifeChoice.com

SATURDAY, AUGUST 26

Reiki Second Degree Workshop – 10am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher (20 years). Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. 2 powerful energy connections from my short Japanese/Usa Lineage. Two manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com. Tarot Readings with Leahjoy – Noon-4pm. Fourth Saturdays. Call ahead to schedule. You can schedule 1/2 hour or 1 hour sessions. $45/for 1/2 hour. Twin Star Community Apothecary, 57 Bank St, New Milford. 860-350-0077. TwinStarTina@gmail.com. TwinStarTribe.com.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 31

Celebrate and Journey Dance – 6–7:30pm. With JoJo Keane. $25/per class. Salt of the Earth Sanctuary Healing Arts, 346 Main St, Woodbury. 203-4052241. NaturalSaltHealing.com.

markyourcalendar Vegetarian Vision September 9 and 10 • 10am-7pm An international vegetarian convention, health and food festival, Vegetarian Vision is a full weekend of food, fun and awareness, featuring vegetarian, vegan and yoga celebrities as well as health and wellness experts and exhibitors. Penn Plaza Pavilion 401 7th Ave at 33rd St, New York City, NY

sunday Satsang Meditation – 9:30-11am. Satsangs are spiritual and community gatherings of like-minded people. Music, mantra, meditation, spiritual instruction/discourse and spiritual blessings to help you reset, recharge and get ready for the week ahead. By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St (Rte 25), Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@ gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com. New Beginnings in Community Sunday Service – 10am. Join this group of spiritually-minded people embracing and honoring all world religions, belief systems, cultures and traditions. Come together to share thoughts, experiences and wisdom in a supportive environment. Free. Mystics By The Sea, 394 New Haven Ave, Milford. 203-980-6272. NewBeginningsInCommunity.Weebly.com. Family Meditation Program – 10-11:30am. Second and fourth Sunday. Ages 4-13. While the adults are meditating in the main building, young people can connect with others in their age-group, learn about mindfulness, compassion toward self and others. 203-244-3130. MMKeeler@gmail.com. ReddingMeditation.org. Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Celebration Service – 10:30am-noon. With Rev. Shawn Moninger. Inspiring message supports your spiritual unfoldment with thought provoking, soul healing topics and uplifting music. By donation. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org. Sunday Albertson Memorial Church Service – 11am-12:30pm. Join us for inspirational sermons, meditation, energy healing and messages from Spirit. By donation. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-637-4615. Info@AlbertsonChurch.org. AlbertsonChurch.org. Ignite your Spirit Healing Clinic – 11:45am2pm. Second Sunday. Healing clinics are a great way to try out or receive on-going assistance with anything life throws your way. Register in advance to participate. $20/suggested donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St (Rte 25), Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com.

Reiki Healing Circle – 4-5pm. Fourth Sunday. With Nina Antolino. Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. Based on the idea that an unseen life force energy flows through us and is what causes us to be alive. Please pre-register. $22 or All Access Pass. LifePath Yoga & Wellness4, 430 Main Ave, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-544-8551. Nina@LifePathYoga.net. LifePathYoga.net. Monthly Healing Circle – 4-5:30pm. First Sunday. Whether you are in need of healing or a healer wishing to share your gifts for the highest good of others, this group is for you. Group limited to 8, please RSVP. Free or $10/suggested donation. Acupuncture Works, 132A State Rt 37, New Fairfield. 845-494-0090. Reiki4Wellness@aol.com. Bliss Out! Dance to Live Drumming – 7-8:30pm. Dirst Sunday. With Jojo. Find your tribe. Open Sky Yoga Barn, 95 Cross Hwy, Redding. Keane.Jojo@ gmail.com.

monday Yoga on Candlewood Lake – Noon-1pm. With Michele Leigh, (RYT). Practice yoga on a floating dock on Candlewood Lake. A gentle, 60-minute practice. Space is limited. $30. Candlewood Lake, Brookfield. DarkMoonAstrology@gmail.com. Meetup.com/Candlewood-Lake-Yoga. Gentle Yoga – 5:45-6:45pm. With Nina Antolino. Focusing on slow, purposeful stretching and basic postures, breathing and balance. All skill levels and ages. $22/drop-in. $10/new student, drop-in. LifePath Yoga & Wellness, 430 Main Ave, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-354-7070. Nina@LifePathYoga.net. LifePathYoga.net.

The most important thing is to enjoy your life— to be happy. It’s all that matters. ~Audrey Hepburn

VegetarianVision.org 516-897-0900 eNaturalAwakenings.com

August 2017

ongoingcalendar tuesday Tai Chi Classes – 9:30-10:30am. With June Fagan, Tai Chi Instructor. A slow movement meditation for all levels of fitness. Known to reduce stress, increase focus, balance and improve self and well-being. $25/drop-in, $85/1-class per week $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690. Toastmasters – Noon. Interested in public speaking? Monroe-Trumbull Toastmasters is a chartered club of Toastmasters International dedicated to improving members’ communication and leadership skills. Meets alternate Tuesdays. Body Smart, Crescent Village, 115 Main St, Unit 11, Monroe. 203-459-6773. Franny. Hannigan@charter.com. ToastMastersClubs.org. Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 12:30-2pm. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. The Art of Meditation – 6-7pm. Whether you are new to meditation or seasoned, this class will help you access inner peace and experience more clarity, purpose and joy. Chairs available. $10/ suggested donation. Any offering, large or small accepted. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, (Rte 6), Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@YogaSpace-CT.com. YogaSpace-CT.com. Meditating Holistically – 6:30-8pm. With Urgyan, a Western Buddhist lama sharing a rich practice of traditional meditation guidance directed toward holistic integration. Group meditation and discussion, devoted to our mutual innermost truths. $15. ah Yoga, 168 New Milford Tpke, New Preston. 860-868-6707 or Danbury Area Vajrayana Buddhist Meditation on Meetup.com. 13 Moon’s Healing Circle – 6:30-8:15pm. Fourth Tuesday. Each moon we will explore a variety of topics. The circle will be a private and sacred group, open to women or those who identify as woman. Drop-ins welcome. $25. Twin Star Herbal Education, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 860-3500077. BekahTwinStar@gmail.com. TwinStarTribe. com/Events. Reiki Share – 7-8:30pm. First Tuesday of the month with June and Tracy. Come join our circle of practitioners for sharing and caring and healing. All levels of practitioners are welcome Please RSVP. $20/drop-in. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690. Yoga Class or Yoga/Float – Yoga: 7-8pm. or Yoga/ Float package: 7-9pm. Enjoy the benefits of yoga in the beautiful PuREST relaxation room. $15/yoga only. $65/yoga and float package. PuREST Float Center, 35 Corporate Dr, Trumbull. PuRESTFloat.com.

Angelic Healing Group – 7-9pm. First Tuesday. Experience the healing energy of the Angelic Realm. Your energy body will be infused with the love and light of the Divine through meditation and hands-on touch. $20. Stevens Memorial Church, 8 Shady Ln, South Salem, NY. 203-438-4893. Reiki Share – 7-9pm. Second Tuesday. Practice and enhance your Reiki healing and grow your intuition. All will receive healing time and practice time. You must have completed at minimum Reiki level I in order to fully participate. $15/suggested donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St (Rte 25), Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com. Reiki Shares – 7:30-10:15pm. First and third Tuesdays. Gigi Benanti Usui/Karuna Reiki Master/ Teacher. For Reiki practitioners only. Exchange ongoing since 1996. Instructions included. $20. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. Pre-register: 203-852-1150.

wednesday Apothecary Hours – 10am-1pm. Meet like-minded folks and learn about what we do at Twin Star Herbal and Energetic Studies. Free. Twin Star Herbal Education, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 203-313-7883. Info@TwinStarTribe.com. TwinStarTribe.com. Women’s Wisdom Group – 10:30am-12:30pm. Women support each other through the process of recognizing and embracing one’s full, authentic beings and, in doing so, nurturing their highest potential. $30. SunRaven, 501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY. 914-218-3113. SlowMedicine.org. Yoga on Candlewood Lake – Noon-1pm. With Michele Leigh, (RYT). Practice yoga on a floating dock on Candlewood Lake. A gentle, 60-minute practice. Space is limited. $30. Candlewood Lake, Brookfield. DarkMoonAstrology@gmail.com. Meetup.com/Candlewood-Lake-Yoga. Yogastrology – 4:30-5:45pm. Yogastrology is the fusion of a slow-flow, gentle yoga practice enriched by astrological wisdom. Join yogi and astrologer Michele Leigh to tap into the energy of the zodiac wheel and connect to the natural rhythms of the sun and the moon. Included in ah Yoga class package. ah Yoga, New Milford, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 203-948-9347. DarkMoonAstrology@gmail.com. DarkMoonAstrology.com. High-Powered Healing – 7pm. First Wednesday. Easy ways to well heal on all levels. Intuitive insight, easy methods for daily wellness, how to determine quality foods and abundance. $20. Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West St, Newtown. 203-426-9448. Trinity@TrinityProduction.org. TrinityProduction.org. A Course In Miracles – 7-8:30pm. Study group where anyone can come without fear of being judged, a place where feelings can be shared in a loving, accepting atmosphere and above all, a place to enhance fun and inspire a sense of joy and laughter. $10/suggested donation. Soul Healing Journey, LLC, 40 Livingston St, Fairfield. 203-767-5954. Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com. SoulHealingJourney.com.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

natural awakenings

Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Experience bliss, peace, joy and deep healing. This is not your traditional silent or guided meditation class. This meditation will bring change into your life. By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St (Rte 25), Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com. Journey Group – 7-9pm. First Wednesday. With Cindy Miller. If you are looking to get unstuck, learn more about self-empowerment, becoming a healing facilitator, than this is the group for you. $20. Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West St, Newtown. 203-426-9448. Cindy@TrinityProduction.org. TrinityProduction.org. Sacred Spirit’s Reiki Shares — 7-9pm. Second and fourth Wednesday. With Valerie Tarangelo R.M. Mini healing sessions. In healing others healers are also healed themselves. All welcome. $10. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-344-9311. Using Smart Body (Kinesiology) for Everyday Situations– 7-9pm. Third Wednesday. Learn how to sense the energy of foods, supplements, books, places and more. Learn how to change energy. Presentation and discussion. $20. Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West St, Newtown. 203-377-6162. Bruce.Zboray@yahoo.com. TrinityProduction.org. Holistic Moms Network Fairfield County, CT Chapter – 7:30pm. Second Wednesday. Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care, 156 East Ave, Norwalk. Home.Homewebs.com/ HMNFairfieldCtyCT. Learn to Love Yourself – 7:30-9:30pm. Second Wednesday. With Ginny Brown and Ellen Kratka. Little-known spiritual truths applied to everyday life. Let go of negative judgment and unconditionally accept yourself. $40. By phone or internet. 203-263-2643. E.Kratka@sbcglobal.net. Results-BeyondBelief.com. Turning Point S.H.A.R.E. Divorce Group – 7:30-9:30pm. Third Wednesdays. Offering support, healing, advocacy, resources and educrcation for women in the process of, or recently divorced. $20, $150/10-session card. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center, 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointShare.com.

thursday Tai Chi Classes – 9:30-10:30am. With June Fagan, Tai Chi Instructor. A slow movement meditation for all levels of fitness. Known to reduce stress, increase focus, balance and improve self and well-being. $25/ drop-in, $85/1-class per week $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690. JTKindredSpirit@gmail.com. KindredSpiritsCenter.com.

Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 9:30-11am. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. Simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life. Discover the benefits of becoming more present. By donation. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Thursday Morning Meditation for Moms – 9:3011am. Come and unwind with a Guided Meditative Journey geared to release stress and a healthful more positive understanding of self. $20. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plain St, Bethel. 203-570-3868. Herbal Consultations – 11am-3pm. Every other Thursday. Ilana Sobo, herbalist, aromatherapist and Ayurvedic Practitioner will be in the apothecary for herbal consults. Call ahead for availability. $45/30 minutes. Twin Star Community Apothecary, 57 Bank St, New Milford. 860-350-0077. TwinStarTina@gmail.com. TwinStarTribe.com/Events. Meditating Holistically – 7-8:30pm. With Urgyan, a Western Buddhist lama sharing a rich practice of traditional meditation guidance directed toward holistic integration. Group meditation and discussion, devoted to our mutual innermost truths. $15. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-YOGA or Danbury Area Vajrayana Buddhist Meditation on Meetup.com. Reiki Healing Circle – 7-9pm. Second Thursday. All welcome. Non-Reiki and Reiki practitioners share and experience Reiki. See details on Unity website. Hosted by Gigi Benanti Reiki master/teacher. $20. Unity Center for Practical Spirituality, 3 Main St, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGiGiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com, UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

friday Reiki Share – 9:30-11:30am. First Friday. With JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT. Practice Reiki in a small group setting. Share experiences and help each other develop in a safe, fun environment while providing a wonderful, relaxing, rejuvenating experience. $20. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointReiki.com. Free Mommy and Me Yoga – 10am. With Brooke de Weaver. We supply water and mats - just bring yourself and your kids. Free. Yogasmoga Townhouse, 68 Greenwich Ave, Greenwich. Student Massage Therapy Clinic – 11am-noon. Relax and enjoy a 50-minute, full-body massage for only $20 at our Danbury Campus public clinic. $20. 44 Shelter Rock Rd, Danbury. KMCCaffrey@ Ridley.edu. Ridley.edu. Apothecary Hours – 11am-4pm. Meet like-minded folks and learn about what we do at Twin Star Herbal and Energetic Studies. Free. Twin Star Herbal Education, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 203-313-7883. Info@TwinStarTribe.com. TwinStarTribe.com.

Yoga on Candlewood Lake – Noon-1pm. With Michele Leigh, (RYT). Practice yoga on a floating dock on Candlewood Lake. A gentle, 60-minute practice. Space is limited. $30. Candlewood Lake, Brookfield. DarkMoonAstrology@gmail.com. Meetup.com/Candlewood-Lake-Yoga. 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. Discussion with Spirit – 7:30-9:45pm. Last Friday. An evening of messages from Spirit and loved ones. Bring questions, receive channeled information specifically geared to you. Receive help in empowering yourself to navigate this lifetime. $40. Email for location. EarthAndHealing@hotmail.com.

saturday Angelic Reiki Meditation with Essential Oils – 8-9am. Receive short, hands-on Angelic Reiki, experience powerful techniques to reduce stress and relax. $10. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave (in the back, downstairs), Norwalk. Pre-register: 203-852-1150. Love Yourself Fit Meetings – 8:30am. Support for your sacred journey of real weight loss. Meetings offer you a place to be accountable to your highest vision for your healthiest self. $15. Insights Wellness Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe. 203-260-9353. ChrisGuerrera@me.com. InsightsWellnessCenter.com. Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Spondylitis Support Group – 11am-12:30pm. Last Saturday. Led by Dr. Andrew Cummins, naturopathic physician. Having lived with the chronic inflammatory disease Ankylosing Spondylitis for the last 18 years, Dr. Cummins understands what living with chronic pain and limited mobility is all about. Group provides education, empowerment, understanding and support. Free. Shalva Clinic, 8 Lincoln St, 1st Fl, Westport. 203-916-4600. DrCummins@ShalvaClinic.org. ShalvaClinic.org. Astrology with Laura – Noon. Second Saturday. We are thrilled to host the wonderful and wildly popular Laura Watkins, Astrological Counselor in our apothecary for reading. Call for an appointment. $45 for 1/2 hour session. Twin Star Community Apothecary, 57 Bank St, New Milford. 860-350-0077. TwinStarTina@gmail.com. TwinStarTribe.com/Events. Tarot Readings in the Apothecary – Noon-4pm. Fourth Saturday. Readings with Leahjoy Pearson available in the Apothecary. 30 and 60 minute sessions available. Drop-ins welcome but best to call ahead. $45/30 minutes. Twin Star Community Apothecary, 57 Bank St, New Milford. 860-350-0077. TwinStarTina@gmail.com. TwinStarTribe.com/Events. Open Mic Night – 7-9 pm, 3rd Saturday. Bring music printed out in your key and Kenneth Gartman will accompany you at the piano for your moment at the microphone. Comedians, poets, writers and musicians welcomed as well. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@ UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

classifieds To place a Classified Listing: $1 per word. $25 minimum. Magazine deadline: 12th of month prior to publication. Email copy to NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com. 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. EXPERIENCED LMT WANTED FOR PART TIME/FLEXIBLE HOURS at The Recharging Station in Bethel. Must be a positive team player & self starter. We provide clients, you provide amazing service and heart-centered care. Please contact Miss Cravens at 203- 748-1941 or email TheRechargingStation@gmail.com.

PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES TESTING SERVICES FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS. Cognitive processing, gifted learning, personality. Thirty years experience, reasonable rates and completion time. Dr. Margolies 203-929-2093.

SEXUAL EDUCATION TEACHING PLEASURE-BASED POSITIVITY TO ADULTS: sex education classes, oneon-one consultations. Featuring high quality, ecofriendly, body-safe adult products. BettySaybe@ MySecretSoiree.com or 646-581-6010.

YOGA HIKING CLASSES HATHA AND VINYASA YOGA WITH HIKING in beautiful natural surroundings in Fairfield County. RYT500 instructor with 10 years experience! Register at YogaForHikers.com.

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August 2017

communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide (CRG) in print and online email FFCAdvertising@ NaturalAwakeningsMag.com to request our advertising rates. ACUPUNCTURE KURT BEIL, ND, LAC, MPH

72 North St, Ste 100A, Danbury 914-362-8315 DrKurt@earthlink.net HudsonValleyNaturalHealth.com Naturopathic and Chinese medicine for acute and chronic disease, including acupuncture, botanical medicine, cupping, moxa, homeopathy, nutritional and lifestyle counseling, mindbody medicine, ecotherapy and functional lab testing. Helpful for muscle/joint pain and headaches, autoimmune disease, digestive disorders, mental health; boosting immune function; balancing hormones; tobacco addiction; and stress reduction. See ad, page 45.

BEHAVIORAL THERAPY THE CENTER FOR COGNITIVE & BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (CCBH) 5 Sylvan Rd South, Westport 888-745-3372 • 203-307-5788 CCBHTherapy.com

The Center for Cognitive and Behavioral Health (CCBH) provides individualized mental health services in a warm, holistic environment. Our Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) teams offer individual, group, and family sessions, as well as skills coaching for all age groups. Our CCBH team offers these therapies along with yoga, mindfulness, meditation and naturopathic services. See ad, page 7.

BIOFEEDBACK

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

Ingri treatments help alleviate pain, depression, neck and back, anxiety, headaches, stress, allergies, asthma, arthritis, digestive, menstrual, infertility and smoking and weight-loss issues. See ad, page 37.

JAMPA STEWART, MSOM, LAc  Board Certified Acupuncturist Valley Spirit Wellness 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot 860-619-2788 ValleySpiritCoop.com

Concierge care for those suffering from pain, internal disorders, menstrual issues and menopause, infertility, depression and anxiety, insomnia, addiction, fatigue, tuneups and more. Facial rejuvenation/ cosmetic acupuncture also offered. See ad, page 16.

ROSEANN CAPANNA-HODGE, EDD, LPC, BCN, LLC

BREAST THERMOGRAPHY ALBA THERMAL IMAGING LLC Safe, painless early detection 71 East Ave, Ste D, Norwalk 203-856-1421 AlbaThermalImaging.com

Thermography can detect breast disease at its earliest stages and monitor and assess pain in any part of the body. Safe, painless, non invasive, FDA registered.

CANCER SUPPORT THERAPIES DORETTE LEWIS-SENIOR, ND, MSAC, BS-RN, LCM Yale New Haven Health, Integrative Medicine 5520 Park Ave, Trumbull 855-735-2533 • Drs2Health.com

Dr. Lewis-Senior has been a Naturopathic physician and healthcare provider for more than thirty years combined. Her focus is on womens’ health, especially cancer, diabetes, weight and pain. She is experienced using multiple modalities to establish health and bring about healing. Some insurance accepted.

898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield Offices in Ridgefield & Newtown 203-438-4848 Info@DrRoseann.com DrRoseann.com

KERRY HARDY, RN, HNB-BC, RMT, CCH

Advanced Bio-Regulation (BRT) is a unique approach to health and wellness that uses Biofeedback and PEMF-based Electromagnetic Technology to help the body better self-regulate, adapt and heal naturally. It is used for chronic pain, depression, anxiety, hormonal issues, Lyme, etc. See ad, page 3.

As a holistic nurse, I understand the importance of balancing traditional medicine with alternative complementary therapies to heal the mind, body and spirit. Offering health and nutritional counseling as a Certified Holistic Cancer Educator, Reiki, pranic healing and crystal therapy, aromatherapy with dōTERRA essential oils. Specializing in working with patients experiencing chronic pain, chronic disease and cancer. See ad, page 45.

OPTIMAL MIND

Lawrence Edwards, PhD, BCN, LMHC 2 Byram Brook Pl, Armonk, NY 914-219-8600 OptimalMind.net Biofeedback/neurofeedback for ADHD, enhanced focus, peak performance, test stress, anxiety, chronic pain, headaches, insomnia, anger, meditation, mindfulness training and more. Dr. Edwards is board certified and NYS licensed. Physician and self-referrals welcome.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

natural awakenings

Holistic Heaven 203-895-5134 HolisticHeavenWellness.com MyDoterra.com/HolisticHeavenWellness

CHIROPRACTIC PETER BRAGLIA, DC

True Health Family Chiropractic 7365 Main St, Stratford 203-923-8633 TrueHealthCT.com As a member of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association, Dr. Braglia has received advanced training in Pediatric Adjusting and Prenatal Care, including the Webster Technique. We are proud to serve patients from all over Fairfield and New Haven Counties with our unique and gentle approach to health care. See ad, page 22.

JILL M. CAPALBO, DC, CCSP Stamford 203-323-0522 CapalboChiropractic.com

With over 30 years experience in bodywork, Dr. Jill Capalbo is a certified chiropractic sports physician with additional certifications in Graston Technique, FAKTR and KinesioTaping as well as being a licensed massage therapist and Reiki Master.

RISA SLOVES, DC

Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care 156 East Ave, Norwalk 203-838-1555 CTChiropractic.com Dr. Risa Sloves is one of 12 Chiropractic Physicians in Connecticut with Board Certification in Maternity and Pediatric Care including Webster and Bagnell Turning Techniques. Also provided: acupuncture, BioSET Allergy Elimination Technique and the DRX9000 Spinal Decompression. See ad, page 7.

COLONICS COLONICS

914-921-LIFE (5433) LifelineHygienics.com Experience and personalized service you can trust. The finest in colonic irrigation and personal care. Serving the tri-state area since 1993.

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE LLC

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

ECOLOGICAL LANDSCAPES ECOSCAPES

Rick Bednar 18 Eleanor Rd, Seymour 203-414-4605 RickBednar@gmail.com Ecoscapes is an ecological landscape company that combines more structural design, such as Japanese-style spirit gardens, with wildlife habitats and native plantings. We construct functional landscapes that bring the human spirit closer to our beautiful, natural planet and create healthy environments for us, our children and pets.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

EDUCATION

MARK JOACHIM, DC, FIAMA

INSTITUTE FOR HOLISTIC HEALTH STUDIES

Western Connecticut State University Christel Autuori, RDH, RYT, MA, Director 181 White St, Danbury 203-837-8559 WCSU.edu/IHHS The mission of the IHHS is to provide the University and Greater Danbury area with an opportunity to engage in and explore different aspects of holistic and integrative health through programming and instruction. Programs include Wellness Wednesday lunchtime workshops, monthly meditation program, lecture series, health wellness and fitness fair, certification programs for yoga teachers, Reiki practitioners and shamanic practitioners.

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 23.

END OF LIFE CONSCIOUS DYING MATTERS

At the Liphe Balance Center of Weston 203-912-2791 AllianceFCT.com Our mission is opening the conversation and providing resources, programs and services, to support and embrace end-of-life transition. The Alliance was born out of a deep desire to honor, respect and meet the needs of individuals and their families at the end-of-life.

ENERGY HEALING BETH LEAS

Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care 156 East Ave, Norwalk 203-838-1555 • CTNutritionCenter.com Dr. Joachim has been in private practice since 1990, specializing in nutrition, natural allergy elimination and functional medicine. Through specialized testing, he identifies subtle changes in individual physiology which may be at the root of troubling symptoms. Addressing the underlying dysfunction can help you feel better, for good. See ad, page 12.

TAMARA SACHS, MD

Functional Medicine & Integrative Care LLC 15 Bennitt St, New Milford 860-354-3304 • TSachsMD.com Using Functional Medicine, Dr. Sachs prevents and treats chronic illnesses by addressing their underlying root causes, remaining respectful of the uniqueness, complexity and intuitions that make us human. Trained at Mt. Sinai Medical School and Yale University Hospital in Internal Medicine, in 2003 she opened Functional Medicine and Integrative Care LLC. She has great success with IBS, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue, Autoimmune problems, Toxicity and more, by creating individualized, realistic and comprehensive Personalized Wellness Plans. She consults in her New Milford, CT office, and also by phone or video using telemedicine.

HAIR LOSS & TRICHOLOGY LISA PRIMPS, TRICHOLOGIST, HLP, AT The Primping Place Spa 999 Summer St, #401, Stamford 203-325-9565 • ThePrimpingPlace.com

Fairfield County’s first location offering the XTC Multi Theraputic Hair Growth System including non-invasive, low level laser therapy—clinically proven and shown to be safe and effective at regrowing hair and creating a healthy scalp. The Primping Place also offers electrolysis and clinical skin care since 1992.

HEALING CENTER

Transformative Healing • Tarot Offices in Norwalk & Ridgefield 203-856-9566 BethLeas.com TLCTarot.com

THE RUBY TREE

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.

Metaphysical Shop & Healing Space Sherman Village, 670 Main St S, Woodbury 203-585-1655 • TheRubyTreeCT.com Rocks and crystals, magical objects, singing bowls, herbal candles and more. Local artisans, an array of holistic practitioners, a monthly Mystical Market fair, regularly scheduled psychics/mediums/intuitives, yoga, meditation, and workshops galore—all to enhance the health of your mind, body and spirit.

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August 2017

HEALTH COACH MARY GILBERTSON, WELLNESS Mary Gilbertson, MS, BSN, CHHC Licensed RN, Nutritionist and Certified Health Coach 238 Monroe Tpke, Monroe 203-521-4733 MaryGilbertsonWellness@gmail.com MaryGilbertsonWellness.com

Using the concept of “Food as Medicine” to create your customized nutrition and lifestyle plan for whole living. Working one on one, in groups and in corporations to develop customized healthy lifestyle plans. Works with patients on metabolism and weight loss, detoxification, gut health, cancers, inflammatory conditions and stress management.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PHYSICIAN INTEGRATIVE MD

Tatiana Fleischman, MD 47 Oak St, Ste 110, Stamford  203-275-6666 Info@IntegrativeMDCenter.com  IntegrativeMDCenter.com  Experienced physician Tatiana Fleischman, MD combines internal and integrative medicine to achieve long-term wellness goals. Full range of services: internal medicine, primary care, advanced testing, weight control, holistic assessment and more. Comprehensive approach. Major insurance accepted.

MICHAEL FINKELSTEIN, MD, FACP, ABIHM

HOLISTIC DENTIST MARK A BREINER, DDS, FIAOMT 501 Kings Hwy East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-0300 WholeBodyDentistry.com

Dr. Mark A. Breiner is a pioneer and recognized authority in the field of holistic dentistry. With over 30 years of experience, he is a soughtafter speaker and lecturer. His popular consumer book, Whole-Body Dentistry, has been sold worldwide. See ad, page 2.

HYPNOSIS

SunRaven: The Home of Slow Medicine 501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY 914-218-3113 SlowMedicineDoctor.com

Insightful health evaluations with customized medical guidance. Consultation and holistic-lifestyle teaching and coaching aimed at attaining enhanced health and wellness on every level.Uniquely qualified to offer a second opinion from a Holistic Perspective.

HENRY C. SOBO, MD

Optimal Health Medical LLC 111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 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.

HEALING TREE WISDOM

Thea Litsios, CHy 2103 Main St, Ste 2, Stratford 203-693-1493 HealingTreeWisdom.com Use the power of your whole mind to transform your life: Hypnosis for weight loss, smoking cessation, stress relief, and past life review. Certified teacher of Active Dream work. Individual dream consultations available, as well as workshops and monthly Dream Groups. See ad, page 19.

STAMFORD INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE Michael E. Doyle, MD Conventional & Alternative Medicine 22 5th St, Ste 201, Stamford 203-324-4747 StamfordIntegrativeMedicine.com

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

Fast, effective methods for weight, stress, fear, pain, smoking, etc. Certified Hypnotherapist, Thought Field Therapy, Time Line Therapy, NLP and Complementary Medical Hypnosis, since 1989. See ads, pages 13 and 33.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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 27.

natural awakenings

INTEGRATIVE NATURAL MEDICINE SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER

Ken Hoffman, DACM, LAc, Medical Director 31 Old Rte 7, Brookfield 203-740-9300 INM.Center Using naturopathic and Chinese medical principles, we get to the source of your health concerns. Diagnostic methods include functional testing such as advanced bloodwork analysis, cardiovascular testing, hormone evaluation and thermography. Our customized treatment program includes acupuncture, herbal and nutritional medicine, diet and lifestyle counseling and more. Most insurance accepted.

INTEGRATIVE OPTOMETRY EYECARE ASSOCIATES, PC

Randy Schulman, MS, OD, FCOVD Stephen Carr, OD, Narvan Bakhtiari, OD Brian Rodrigues, OD Locations: 6515 Main St, Trumbull • 203-374-2020 444 Westport Ave, Norwalk • 203-840-1991 2600 Post Rd, Southport • 203-255-4005 CTEyeCareAssociates.com We offer behavioral optometry, comprehensive vision exams, contact lenses and vision therapy. See ad, page 19.

LEGAL SERVICES LAW OFFICES OF KIRSTEN E. BENNETT 27 Mill Plain Rd, Danbury 203-648-9883 50 Main St, White Plains, NY 914-246-2906

Advocacy, Representation, Communication. Kirsten Bennett is a solo practitioner with offices in Danbury and White Plains, NY. Her practice handles real estate, estate planning and probate, personal injury and criminal defense. “My firm is committed to providing you with effective advocacy, quality representation and the highest level of personal service.”

LIFE COACHING DARLENE ALVAREZ MADDERN

Create With Your Thoughts Life Empowerment Coach, Teacher, Speaker and Mentor QSCA Certified Law of Attraction Coach, MA Sociology 860-488-2619 CreateWithYourThoughts.com I empower my clients to move beyond their limiting beliefs, strengthen their sense of self worth and confidence to create the happiness, abundance, home, health and relationships they have always wanted. Create the life you want! See ad, page 36.

MASSAGE & BODYWORK JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER

2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 JiivaCenter.com We offer Traditional, Thai Massage and Prenatal massage. At Jiiva Massage, our goal is to provide our clients with a variety of experienced therapists and modalities to choose from. Our hope is to provide you with an assortment of different techniques so you can find what works best for your individual needs. See ad, page 20.

ROBIN ORDAN, LMT, LCSW, CICMI Licensed Massage Therapist and 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 14.

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.

SHALVA CLINIC LLC

VALLEY SPIRIT WELLNESS

6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot 860-619-2788 ValleySpiritCoop.com Meditation can be easier to master than you think. Taoist, Buddhist and generic meditation. Beginners and experienced practitioners both welcome. See ad, page 16.

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN NATURAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER

Lisa Singley, ND, MS 2103 Main St, Ste 2, Stratford 203-874-4333 Info@NHAWC.com NHAWC.com

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

WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE LLC

We use advanced diagnostic testing with safe, effective, all-natural 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.

NORTHEAST NATURAL MEDICINE, LLC

Shawn M. Carney, ND 19 Church Hill Rd, Ste 1, Newtown 129 Main St N, New Morning Market, Woodbury 800-723-2962 NortheastNatMed.com Info@NortheastNatMed.com Integrative naturopathic medicine clinic and therapeutic massage center for the whole family. Services include advanced diagnostic testing, detoxification programs, personalized nutrition, acupuncture, low level laser and botanicals. Insurance accepted.

MARVIN P. SCHWEITZER, ND Wellness Institute 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203-847-2788 DrMarvinSchweitzer.com

Adam Breiner, ND, Director Elena Sokolova, MD, ND David Brady, ND, CCN, DACBN 501 Kings Hwy E, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 WholeBodyMed.com Using state-of-the-art science combined with centuries-old healing modalities, our caring naturopathic doctors correct underlying imbalances and address issues which may interfere with the body’s ability to heal itself. Treatment protocols or therapies include: Abdominal Manual Therapy, Acupuncture, Allergy Desensitization, Chinese Medicine, Colonics and other Detoxification Protocols, Electro-Dermal Screening, Energy Medicine, FDA-cleared Phototherapy, Functional Medicine, Herbal Medicine, Homeopathy, Hormonal Balancing, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Metabolic Typing, Nutritional Assessment, Real-Time EEG Neurofeedback and other therapies. See ad, page 2.

NEUROFEEDBACK ROSEANN CAPANNA-HODGE, EDD, LPC, BCN, LLC

Family Health Care using all natural therapies for 25 years. Acupuncture, bioidentical hormones, homeopathy, Chinese/ Western herbs, allergy/toxin testing, oxygen therapy, Meridian stress assessment, nutrition/ enzyme therapies. See ad, page 35.

898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield Offices in Ridgefield & Newtown 203-438-4848 Info@DrRoseann.com DrRoseann.com

We work with children, adolescents, teens, adults and families around a variety of issues with non-medication therapies. We provide brain-based treatments like Neurofeedback, Biofeedback, EFT, Hypnosis, Meditation, etc. Our staff provides non-judgmental support to help alleviate stress and promote wellness. See ad, page 3.

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August 2017

OSTEOPATHIC PHYSICIAN DAVID L. JOHNSTON, DO 158 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-438-9915 OsteopathicWellness.net

Dr. Johnston has been providing gentle, holistic hands-on osteopathic manual treatment and nutrition for over 20 years. Excellent for newborns, birth trauma, concussions, headaches, sports injuries, neck and back pain, digestive issues, brain support, stress, fibromyalgia, detoxification and weight loss, specialized bloodwork. See ad, page 24.

PSYCHO-SPIRITUAL COUNSELING ROBIN QUEEN-FINKELSTEIN

SunRaven: The Home of Slow Medicine 501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY 914-218-3113 SlowMedicineTherapist.com Offering a whole-being, integrative approach to wellness, nurturing clients into health on the emotional, spiritual, mental and physical levels. Following one’s heart to re-envision life in order to flourish.

PSYCHOTHERAPY

ROSEANN CAPANNA-HODGE, EDD, LPC, BCN, LLC 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield Offices in Ridgefield & Newtown 203-438-4848 Info@DrRoseann.com DrRoseann.com

Our highly trained and experienced therapists utilize a variety of brainbased tools and techniques that allow the CNS to calm down so one can address their issues without heightened anxiety. We specialize in pediatrics, parenting, and supporting individuals with chronic issues. See ad, page 3.

OPTIMAL MIND

Lawrence Edwards, PhD, BCN, LMHC 2 Byram Brook Pl, Armonk, NY 914-219-8600 OptimalMind.net

ROBIN ORDAN, LCSW Family, Child, Individual and 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.

NANCY SCHERLONG, LCSW

Coaching/Psychotherapy/Consulting Offices in Danbury and Ridgefield 914-572-3167 WellnessMetaphors.com Manage stress with relaxation techniques. Re-discover your creativity through writing and the expressive arts. Resolve trauma with EMDR, IFS or SE. Or book an experiential workshop! Nancy has over 20 years experience with children, families, groups, adults and corporate wellness programs. See ad, page 14.

REGULATION THERMOGRAPHY FAMILY AND ENVIRONMENTAL MEDICINE 111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-539-1149 GoThermography.com

Chronic illness develops over time.With Regulation Thermography you discover the disturbances that are important to address in order to restore and optimize your health. Healing begins by providing the information to diagnose, assess, and treat complex health conditions. FDA approved test and reports.

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

Integrative psychotherapy: depression, anxiety, addictions, relationships, and more. Dr. Edwards is a NY lic. psychotherapist with 40 years of experience compassionately working with adults to realize their goals. Meditation and mindfulness training are also offered.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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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TURNING POINT REIKI LLC

JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, 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.

JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER

2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 JiivaCenter.com Berta Prevosti is a Usui and Karuna Reiki Master and has been practicing Reiki for over 20 years. We also have several experienced Reiki Masters and practitioners. We offer private Reiki sessions for physical and emotional pain. We also have ongoing Reiki Classes that are taught in the traditional Usui method by Berta. See ad, page 20.

ROLFING/STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION WELCOME TO GRAVITY

Yoni Hormadaly, LMT 109 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-550-6888 StructuralTransformations.com Yoni has been practicing Structural Integration since 2002. Specializing in improving the relationship between the human body and gravity. Flat feet, chronic pain and discomfort, improvement in athletic pursuits, general self improvement, are some of the reasons clients of all ages have sought out this work. Free phone consultation.

SHAMANIC PRACTITIONER HUNTER HEALING HANDS

Jessica C. Hunter 203-916-8381 HunterHealingHands@hotmail.com HunterHealingHands.com Healing sessions in shamanic healing, Melody crystal healing, Reiki, shamanic intuitive readings. Accredited and certification training programs in Reiki, crystal healing and shamanic healing. See ad, page 44.

SPIRITUAL CONSULTING

SALT OF THE EARTH HEALING ARTS SANCTUARY/ATHENA HALL

WELLNESS CENTER

Stacey Lyons 914-336-7693 Contact@ElysianLD.com ElysianLD.com

7eFIT SPA

1492 High Ridge Rd, Stamford • 203-356-5822 515 West Ave, Norwalk • 203-814-1355 7eFitSpaCT1@gmail.com 7eFitSpa.com

346 Main St S, Woodbury 203-405-2241 • 203-586-1172

Stacey Lyons is a Certified Energy Healer and Certified Medium who has performed international medium readings. Specializes in Spiritual Consulting, Space/Land Clearing, Energy Healing, Herbal and Essential Oil based spiritual products and more. Start your spiritual journey with us today. See ad, page 10.

7eFit Spa offers a variety of aesthetic services and noninvasive techniques to support mind-body wellness. Services include antiaging and oxygen facials with aromatherapy, Torc Plus bioelectric stimulation for muscle activation and weight-loss, infrared sauna and the DietMaster weight-loss program.

A space of calm and beauty, healing and restoration of the body and spirit, Salt of the Earth Healing Arts Sanctuary offers a tranquil place to refresh and renew in a house charged with the energy of old. Beautiful Athena Hall, inside the Sanctuary, can be rented to like-minded people for classes, workshops, lectures and special events. Heart and Home is a unique store in the ™sanctuary; a cozy place to shop, have tea, scoop and bag salts, purchase a variety of artisan goods.

ELYSIAN LIFE DESIGN

TAI CHI/QIGONG JAMPA STEWART, MSOM, LAc

Fit Spa

A new way to looking and feeling good. JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER

Berta Prevosti, Usui and Karuna Reiki Master 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 JiivaCenter.com

SUNRAVEN: THE HOME OF SLOW MEDICINE

501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY 914-218-3113 SlowMedicine.org

Promoting and supporting health Jiiva is in the business of building and wellness; facilitating coma community for yoga and healing. munity-centered experiential and We offer yoga classes, a school of reflective learning for individuReiki, private Reiki treatments, als, families, and groups, by ofNo surgery or invasive procedures. traditional massage therapy, Thai fering educational programs, events, and resources Develop physical and mental meditation classes, designed to build integrative skills and understandInfrared Sauna •massage, Micro-dermabrasion fitness and find a new harmony workshops and community events. ing for those looking to holistically care for themof the mind, body and spirit See • ad,Body page 20. Myolift • Torc Waxing selves, others, and the world in which we live. using ancient Chinese arts. Transformative programs, holistic medicine, psychoDiet Master • Oxygen Bar • Reiki Starting with basic movements, SALTANA CAVE spiritual counseling; women’s, men’s and couples warm-up techniques and breathing 590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield Dermalogica Facials • Oxygen Facials groups, garden co-op, cleansing program; special exercises, you will learn a set of 203-969-4327 12-week “immersion”. Teeth Whitening flowing natural movements done slowly with SaltanaCave.com calmness, balance and awareness. Weekly classes, Fairfield County’s first and weekend workshops and retreats. See ad, page 16. WELLNESS SUPPLEMENT only therapeutic Himalayan salt cave provides relief from respiratory is- MEDTECH HEALTHCARE TRANSFORMATIVE sues such as allergies, SOLUTIONS HEALING asthma, and side effects of 284 Racebrook Rd, Ste 21, Orange 1092 High Road Stamford, 06905 203-298-0677 smoking and Ridge pollution. Salt is| naturally anti- CT Allison@MedTechHealthcare.com inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal. See ad, 7efitspact1@gmail.com | www.7efitspa.com BETH LEAS MedTechHealthcare.com page 27. Transformative Healing • Tarot As a distributor of Offices in Norwalk and Ridgefield SALT OF THE EARTH CW Hemp (Char203-856-9566 THERAPEUTIC SPA lotte’s Web), we BethLeas.com • TLCTarot.com 787 Main St S, Woodbury want to help everyIf not now, when? Inspire change 203-586-1172 one better their health and wellness by offering a on all levels—greater physical NaturalSaltHealing.com full line of Premium Whole-Plant Cannabinoid ease, emotional freedom, peace Hemp Extracts. Charlotte’s Web (CW) is The Combining an array of mind and spiritual connection. of natural therapies World’s Most Trusted Hemp Extract™. “Be 20 years of intuitive healing that have been used Calmer. Improve Focus. Just feel Better.” See ad, experience with adults and since ancient times page 17. children of all ages. Reiki, Jin Shin with today’s technology, Salt of the Earth Spa proJyutsu, Tarot. vides a sanctuary for deep transformation, healing and grounding for Mind, Body and Spirit.

Board Certified Acupuncturist Valley Spirit Wellness 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot 860-619-2788 ValleySpiritCoop.com

Relax while our technology does the work.

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SPIRITUAL ARTS LLC

Richard Wlodarski, RMT 2505 Main St, Ste 209B, Stratford 203-605-0773 Rich@SpiritualArts.info • SpritualArts.info Richard is a Reiki Master/Teacher and intuitive reader. He specializes in home and property cleansings. Come and experience the healing attributes of Reiki and discover spiritual guidance and awareness, with over 30 years of experience.

Your ad could be featured here Reach over 60,000 Natural Awakenings readers by placing your ad here.

Call for more info. 203-885-4674 eNaturalAwakenings.com

August 2017

COSMIC RHYTHMS The Eclipses Light Up Leo and Aquarius by Michele Leigh

espite certain superstitions, eclipses are not bad luck. These are, in fact, magical times when things can be seen from a whole new perspective. This month we will have two eclipses coinciding with the New Moon and the Full Moon of August. On August 21, we are treated to a full solar eclipse, where the sky darkens in the middle of the day. This will be visible from coast to coast and is being coined the “Great American Eclipse”. It is important to note the position of the moon’s nodes during an eclipse. If the eclipse occurs near the north node, or Rahu, then something will be illuminated via the head of the dragon. A message could be revealed through a dream or a song. Eclipses on the north node point us toward the future and light up something that needs a nudge in the right direction. If the eclipse occurs near the south node, or Ketu, then the message will be delivered via the tail of the dragon. Like an alligator snapping its tail something will be eliminated from our life. This could be associated with releasing a toxic relationship or quitting a bad habit. This eclipse season we can expect the following energy: • August 7 is a partial lunar eclipse in Aquarius. This fullmoon eclipse signifies our karmic ability to tap into the eccentric, rebellious energy of Aquarius. On the south node it may challenge a belief carried over from early life, one that no longer resonates. • August 21 is a total solar eclipse in Leo. A new moon total solar eclipse means that the sun will be completely covered by the moon. This will be visible all across the U.S. and the first time an eclipse has passed from coast to coast since 1918. This eclipse on the north node is encouraging us toward a courageous new future. Light a white candle to compensate for the altered light and take time to pause and reflect under the darkening sky. On the East Coast, the total solar eclipse will be visible anywhere from 12:50pm to 4:02pm. Consider taking the afternoon off and getting outside. Michele Leigh is an astrologer, author and podcaster. A practitioner of ancient astrology and planetary magic, she is an active member of OPA, the Organization for Professional Astrology. Connect at DarkMoonAstrology.com. 66

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August 2017

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