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H E A L T H Y

L I V I N G

Urban Walking

H E A L T H Y

P L A N E T

feel good • live simply • laugh more

FREE

Hit the Streets to Get Fit and Stay Healthy

Backyard & Picnic Foods Tasty Ideas for Eating Outdoors

GMOs

The Real Risks You Need to Know

SIMPLE SUMMERS Simple Pleasures

July 2012

Columbia Edition

HealthyLivingColumbia.com

letterfrompublisher Escapes. We fantasize about our great escapes from work, from drudgery, from responsibilities—we even plan escapes from our vacation, literally escaping from our escapes.

contact us Publisher Keith Waller Assistant Editor Sara Gurgen Design & Production Kristina Parella Stephen Gray-Blancett Advertising Sales Annette Briggs Judi Burton To contact Natural Awakenings Columbia Edition: 5335 North Kings Hwy Box 307 Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 Phone: 803-233-3693 Fax: 803-753-8096 ColaPublisher@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com www.HealthyLivingColumbia.com © 2012 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved.

Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.

Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.

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

We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available by sending $24 (for 12 issues) to the above address.

Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soybased ink.

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Columbia Edition

This month, we look at the hazy summer days and how we can make our own escapes to explore cool summer foods, new green vistas, fresh new environments and new conversations with interesting people we’ve yet to meet. Those who live at the beach, head for the cool, quiet green mountains, while the mountain people all pack up to visit the warm sands and sparkling nightlife of the beach resorts. How lucky that here in the Carolinas we have it all within reach.

What do you do for your escape? Is it a trip to visit the kids and grandkids, or a romantic getaway to spend quiet time with your other half? Some plan trips around the world to exotic locations; this month, Natural Awakenings begins offering inspiring tours of China and Peru. Or you can spend family time right in your own backyard enjoying some of the healthy summer refreshments we suggest in this month’s Conscious Eating recipes.

Escape can be whatever takes you to your very own place of joy to recharge your spirit and replace the fears and worries in your heart with hope and love.

Water and sun have always been the stage for the theater of my favorite happy moments, but for you and for everyone, those joyful escapes are very personal and completely unique to your own experiences and fortunes.

Look this summer for a respite that recharges your batteries and refreshes your outlook, and maybe we at Natural Awakenings can inspire you with a few ideas.

Be well and be healthy,

The art of being happy lies in the power of extracting happiness from common things. ~Henry Ward Beecher

contents

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4 newsbriefs

7 healthbriefs

9 globalbriefs 12 ecotip 13 greenliving

7 18 consciouseating

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.

13 URBAN WALKABOUT

Traveling Afoot Sustains a Sense of Community

by Meredith Montgomery

13

15 RUNNING FOR THE HILLS

-Retreats for the Soul

by Judi Burton

22 inspiration 28 calendar

9

30 resourceguide

18 OUTDOOR

ENTERTAINING

Backyard &

15

Picnic Party Foods

by RenĂŠe Loux

advertising & submissions how to advertise To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 803-233-3693 or email ColaPublisher@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com. Deadline for ads: the 10th of the month.

Editorial submissions Email articles, news items and ideas to ColaPublisher@ NaturalAwakeningsMag.com. Deadline for editorial: the 10th of the month. calendar submissions Submit Calendar Events at HealthyLivingColumbia. com/submit_calendar.htm or email to ColaPublisher@ NaturalAwakeningsMag.com. Deadline for calendar: the 10th of the month prior to publication. 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 803-233-3693. For franchising opportunities, call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

www.healthylivingcolumbia.com HealthyLivingColumbia.com

22 THE ULTIMATE

18

MINIMALIST

Five Powerful Lessons from Gandhi

by Arvind Devalia

23 SIMPLE SUMMER PLEASURES

Sweet, Easy, Perfect

by Claire O’Neil

22

26 THE TRUTH

ABOUT GMOs

Plant Pathologist

Don Huber Reveals the Risks

by Melinda Hemmelgarn

23 July 2012

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newsbriefs Festival of Healing and Spiritual Awareness, July 21-22

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he annual Festival of Healing and Spiritual Awareness returns to Columbia the weekend of July 21 and 22, featuring a wide variety of vendors, healers, speakers and intuitive counselors. This event is, according to Reiki master Margaret Self of Carolina Reiki Institute Inc., “a wonderful way to explore new and different means of healing body, mind and spirit in a fun atmosphere.

Nowhere else locally can one meet, speak with and learn from so many experts all in one place.” Come and join in the fun, have your aura photo made, explore JR Rock Shop’s selection of crystals and stones, receive an intuitive reading, find a one-of-a-kind gift from Belladonnas shop, get a massage or Reiki session, and take advantage of the hourly lineup of speakers. Share all of this and much, much more with the more than 400 people who attend each year.

The event takes place at the COOP, 1100 Key Rd, next to Williams Brice Stadium. Doors open Saturday from 9:45 am to 8 pm, and Sunday, from 10:45 am to 6 pm. Entrance fees are $10 for Saturday and $8 for Sunday, or $15 for a weekend pass.

Friday, July 20, from 4:30 to 7:30 pm, intuitive counselors will be available for readings at $35 for 30 minutes. The festival will not be open to the public on Friday.

For a full program listing of participants and schedule of activities, contact organizer Jan Posey at Janthemother@aol. com, or call toll free at 888-595-2266.

Expect Wellness Integrative Medicine Columbia now has an integrative physician, with consults available. Integrative medicine is another name for holistic medicine.

An integrative physician considers the entirety of the patient: body, mind and spirit, as a treatment plan is derived. This plan will 4

Columbia Edition

involve lifestyle modifications, complementary alternative medical (CAM) therapies as well as conventional Western medical therapies, for a comprehensive plan to treat the patient as a whole.

Conventional medicine commonly approaches symptoms; integrative medicine seeks the cause of the symptom and focuses treatment at the root of the problem. Evaluations include exploration of the health of the body, mind, emotions, environment, social structure and spiritual path, looking to achieve balance in all areas.

Lifestyle changes as well as evidence-based natural and CAM therapies are initially recommended, only reaching for pharmaceuticals or surgery when all other treatments have been exhausted or those treatments are clearly indicated. It is true informed care, considering all the options available when planning a treatment course.

Rachel E. Hall, MD, is now offering integrative medicine consults. She graduated from USC School of Medicine in 1999, and initially trained and board certified as a family physician, specializing in obstetrics and women’s care.

Last November, she discovered her true calling, integrative medicine, and has been in a course of self-study for the American Board of Integrative and Holistic Medicine exam, November 2012.

As a family physician, Dr. Hall is able to offer consults to anyone, male or female, old or young, even the whole family.

For more info, contact Expect Wellness at 803-661-8452 or email expectwellness@sc.rr.com to set up a consultation.

See ad, page 16.

Awakening Journeys Debuts Travel Adventures of Self-Discovery

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raveling to new destinations and learning about different cultures ignites the imagination and engages the senses in exotic ways, encouraging a fresh understanding of our place in the world and our connection with others. With the recent creation of Awakening Journeys, friends and readers of Columbia Natural Awakenings can enjoy several opportunities for self-discovery and adventure, beginning in fall 2012.

Travel excursions to Peru and China, offered in a special 10-day tour format, will be the first destinations available.

Sheryl Miller, a traveler from St. Petersburg, FL, who recently toured China says: “This is a fabulous journey—an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience. China will fill up your senses and expand your heart.” Likewise, visitors to Peru’s many historic sites, such as Machu Picchu and the Inca ruins surrounding Lake Titicaca, speak of remarkable vistas and extraordinary memories.

Travelers with Awakening Journeys will find themselves immersed in the varied cultures and traditions of each desti-

nation country. These trips are intended to inspire and enrich participants through purposeful travel, camaraderie and diverse activities. Local group rates are available, and local nonprofit organizations can participate and use the trip as a fundraiser. For groups and local fundraisers, email the Columbia Natural Awakenings publisher at colapublisher@naturalawakeningsmag.com for details.

For more info and trip itineraries, or to register for an Awakening Journey, visit AwakeningJourneys.net. See ad, this page.

Chicago-area Couple Wins Natural Awakenings Costa Rica Contest

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lizabeth Sobol and her husband, Ronnie, won a week-long stay at the Farm of Life (Finca de Vida) natural healing and wellness center, in Costa Rica, in a national sweepstakes sponsored by the facility and Natural Awakenings. The four-month contest, conducted through local Natural Awakenings magazines and NaturalAwakeningsMag.com, drew nearly 3,500 entries.

The Sobols will enjoy shared accommodations, nightly dinners, and the use of the communal kitchen and the farm’s fruits and vegetables to prepare their own breakfasts and lunches.

They will also experience health coaching, yoga sessions, two waterfall hikes, a beach excursion, a permaculture farm tour and a tour of Manuel Antonio National Park.

The winning couple, avid readers of the Natural Awakenings Chicago North & North Shore edition, plans to stay at the healthful retreat in August.

“Our readers enjoy the many contests that we run locally, so we’re so happy that two of them won this fabulous national contest,” says Peggy Malecki, co-publisher with Jim Irwin, of the Chicago-area edition.

To learn more about Farm of Life, visit FarmofLifecr.com or Google TripAdvisor Farm of Life.

HealthyLivingColumbia.com

July 2012

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Columbia Edition

healthbriefs

Wondrous Watermelon

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n a hot summer day, a cool, juicy slice of watermelon offers enticing refreshment. The treat offers surprising health benefits, too—it may help keep weight off and arteries clear, according to a recent study involving mice with high cholesterol by University of Kentucky researchers.

One group sipped watermelon juice; the control group, water. After eight weeks, the mice that imbibed the juice had a lower body weight due to a decrease in fat mass; lean muscle mass was unaffected. These same mice also experienced reduced atherosclerotic lesions—associated with hardening of the arteries—and lower concentrations of cholesterol in their blood.

“This pilot study has found… interesting health benefits in the mouse model of atherosclerosis,” says lead investigator Dr. Sibu Saha, a cardiothoracic surgeon.

“Our ultimate goal is to identify bioactive compounds that would improve human health.”

To Stay Sharp, Keep Moving

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erobic exercise not only gets the heart pumping, it is also good for brain health. According to a study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings, aerobic workouts can reduce the risk of dementia and slow its progression if it starts, because they deliver oxygen to the brain and generate nutritional factors that improve brain functioning. Exercise also facilitates neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life.

Eat Fiber for Health and Longevity

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ow consumers have another convincing argument to add more fiber to their diet. According to a National Cancer Institute study at the National Institutes of Health, which followed patients over a nine-year period, scientists associated the intake of fiber (about 30 grams per day) with a reduced risk of death from any cause, including cardiovascular, infectious and respiratory diseases.

Source: Archives of Internal Medicine.

The Lowdown on Low Iron

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ow levels of iron in the blood not only cause fatigue, but also may be linked to more serious health risks, including dangerous blood clots.

Iron deficiency is widespread, and thought to affect at least 1 billion people worldwide, mostly women.

Alleviating such deficiencies is a preventive measure.

Source: Imperial College, London.

HealthyLivingColumbia.com

July 2012

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healthbriefs

Cancer Prevention in a Spice

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his year, an estimated 52,610 people (38,380 men and 14,230 women) will develop cancer in the head and neck, leading to an estimated 11,500 deaths (or just under 22 percent), according to statistics adapted from the American Cancer Society’s publication, Cancer Facts & Figures 2012. New hope may lie in an ancient spice.

A pilot study conducted at the University of California-Los Angeles Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center has shown that eating curcumin, the main component in the spice turmeric, works to suppress a cell-signaling pathway that spurs the growth of malignancies in the head and neck. Further, curcumin reduces proinflammatory cytokines (naturally occurring regulatory proteins) within saliva.

Turmeric is widely used in South Asian and Middle Eastern cooking (curry, for example), and has been long valued for its anti-inflammatory properties. In India, women have used it for centuries as an anti-aging agent rubbed into the skin, as a poultice to promote wound healing and as a treatment for menstrual cramps.

Rice Syrup Alert

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onsider reading labels and avoiding or restricting foods sweetened with rice syrup, at least for now. A recent study by researchers at Dartmouth College, in New Hampshire, found levels of arsenic in foods containing rice syrup that exceeded US standards for bottled water. The sampling of products included cereal bars, energy shots (drinks) and baby formulas sweetened with organic brown rice syrup. Arsenic is toxic and potentially carcinogenic, and the researchers are pushing for regulatory limits in food, like those that protect drinking water.

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Why Corn Syrup is Worse than Sugar

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hy is it important to choose natural sugars instead of highfructose corn syrup (HFCS)? Dr. Vanessa Bundy, a pediatric resident at the Medical College of Georgia at Georgia Health Sciences University, remarks, “Fructose is metabolized differently than other sugars and has some byproducts [that are] believed to be bad for us.”

Children and adolescents who consume many foods containing pure fructose, such as sodas and energy drinks, kids’ cereals and sugary snacks, are at special risk. The researchers’ analysis of 559 adolescents, ages 14 to 18, correlated high-fructose diets with higher blood pressure, fasting glucose levels, insulin resistance and inflammatory factors that contribute to heart and vascular disease. Heavy consumers of the mega-sweetener also tended to have lower levels of cardiovascular protectors such as HDL (good) cholesterol and adiponectin, a protein hormone that regulates the body’s metabolism of lipids (fats and oils) and glucose (a simple sugar and universal source of energy).

Bundy explains, “The overall amount of fructose that is in HFCS is not much different than the amount in table sugar, but it’s believed there’s something in the syrup processing that plays a role in [producing] the bad byproducts of metabolism.”

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

Shine On

White Roofs Cool Local & Global Warming Some things are easy. A new study from researchers at NASA and New York’s Columbia University has concluded that painting a city’s roofs white or another light color could reduce the local ambient temperature by 5 percent or more during hot summer months. This negates the phenomenon scientists refer to as the “urban heat island effect,” in which the dark jungles of asphalt, metal and concrete turn cities into heat reservoirs, soaking up the warmth of the sun instead of reflecting solar radiation back into the atmosphere.

In New York City, it was discovered that a white-surfaced roof was 43 percent cooler than its black counterpart. The city passed a law in 2007 to reduce its greenhouse emissions by 30 percent by 2030; increasing the city’s albedo (the amount of reflected solar radiation) by brightening its surfaces is one of the quickest, cheapest and most effective ways to achieve significant reductions.

After announcing a plan to alter roofs atop the US Department of Energy and other federal buildings in the summer of 2010, Energy Secretary Steven Chu said, “Cool roofs are one of the quickest and lowest-cost ways we can reduce our global carbon emissions and begin the hard work of slowing climate change.”

Source: Miller-McCune.com.

Expanding Problem Cities Growing Like Weeds Worldwide

Expanding cities around the globe, especially in fast-growing countries like China, India and Brazil, are putting the world under increasing environmental stress, according to experts at a climate conference, Planet Under Pressure, in London, reports Reuters. The additional 1.5 million square kilometers of space they expect to be occupied by 2030 will mean growing greenhouse gas emissions and resource demand. The United Nations foresees global population rising from 7 billion to 9 billion people by 2050, adding roughly a million people each week.

Farsighted urban planners want to improve how cities are planned, developed and run. “Everything being brought into the city from outside—food, water, products and energy—needs to be sourced sustainably,” observes Sybil Seitzinger, executive director of the International Geosphere-Biosphere Program at the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences.

Utility meters and sensors that monitor power generation network capacities and electricity supply and demand can help conserve energy. Builders can also target more efficient land use, better building standards and policies to promote public transportation instead of vehicle use. More urban areas need to follow the example of cities like Vancouver, in Canada, which obtains 90 percent of its energy from renewable sources such as wind, solar and tidal energies, and has developed a 100-year sustainability plan.

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COMING IN AUGUST

Storm Clouds

Data Centers Leave Bigfoot Carbon Footprints

Healthy Living Tips for the Whole Family … including less-stressed kids, happy pets and active family fun.

Natural Awakenings has got you covered.

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

803-233-3693 10

Columbia Edition

Giant data centers, known as “clouds,” that store and transmit data, photos, emails, songs and streaming videos every day, have become one of the fastest-growing consumers of worldwide electricity. Now, a Greenpeace International report details the truth about how much coal is burned to operate and maintain this virtual, online cloud of electronic data transmission worldwide.

Every day, tons of asthma-inducing, climate-destroying coal pollution is emitted into the air just to keep the Internet going. The good news is that tech industry leaders such as Facebook and Google are starting to quit the coal habit; Apple’s new North Carolina data center will run in part on renewable, biogaspowered fuel cells and a large array of solar panels.

A Greenpeace initiative is working to persuade Microsoft, Amazon and others to likewise disassociate their brands from the specter of poisoned air currently damaging the climate.

Take action at Tinyurl.com/dirtycloud.

Sweet Survival

Bees & Superbees Update While bee colonies die off around the world, pesticide chemical companies continue to protect their businesses by lobbying against bans on neonicotinoids, a group of nicotine-based toxins designed to paralyze insects by attacking their nervous systems. And that, claim critics, includes honeybees.

Mounting authoritative research undermines the pesticide industry’s longrepeated arguments that bees are not being harmed, and increases pressure on US and UK authorities to follow other countries in banning the suspect chemicals, blamed for the “colony collapse disorder” that has been decimating bee populations.

The current double-whammy for honeybees is an Asian mite, the varroa, which feeds on honeybee young and adults and spreads viruses. To fight the pest, commercial beekeepers have turned to heavy feeding and medication to try to keep hives alive.

Now, scientists at the US Department of Agriculture’s honeybee lab, in Baton Rouge, LA, that have studied for the last decade why some hives had low mite levels, have determined that the bees in those colonies were able to detect mites hiding in sealed cells and feeding on developing young. The researchers’ goal is to breed a queen that will pass on to her colony the traits of resistance to pests and disease, gentleness, productivity and winter hardiness, thus creating a superbee. The project is ongoing.

Source: Environmental Health News.

globalbriefs Senior Trips

Greycations Rock with the Whole Family The US Travel Industry Association estimates that more than 5 million family vacations a year in the United States now encompass three generations, with grandparents often footing the bill. Multi-generational travel is a hot trend, having increased from 22 to 32 percent in the last five years, with the phenomenon expected to grow as the US population ages.

Travel companies, hotels and theme parks have taken notice and are eager to cater to the trend. Cruise lines are especially active in marketing fixed-price packages that include activities for all ages, meals and group discounts. All-inclusive resorts and vacation rental agents are also on board, offering plans to accommodate all budgets.

Source: Orlando Sun-Sentinel.

Earth Quaking

Vermont Says, ‘Don’t Frack on Me’ Vermont has become the first US state to ban fracking, or hydraulic fracturing, the controversial practice used to extract natural gas from the ground by injecting water, sand and chemicals deep into the Earth to crack shale rock, which frees oil and gas.

Proponents claim that fracking is producing energy and jobs, but critics fear the chemicals are seeping into the groundwater.

The process is also suspected of causing mild earthquakes.

“This is a big deal,” says Governor Peter Shumlin. “This will ensure that we do not inject chemicals into groundwater in a desperate pursuit for energy.”

Petition your legislators to ban fracking in your state and around the country at Tinyurl.com/banthefracking.

Source: CNN.

A simple and unassuming manner

of life is best for everyone, best both for the body and the mind. ~Albert Einstein

HealthyLivingColumbia.com

July 2012

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ecotip Perfect Pools

Practical Options for Chlorine-Free Swimming Swimming in an ocean, river or lake dramatically differs from manmade pools in obvious ways, but also one that water lovers may not dwell on. In the typical, chlorine-laced environment of most public and private pools, major emphasis is placed on killing germs quickly and cheaply; possible side effects to skin, hair and lungs from exposure to a toxic chemical are assumed. Nevertheless, safe and refreshing options are available.

Saltwater pools use sodium chloride in a naturally occurring cycle to keep it clean. Chlorine is present as a byproduct of the off-gassing of the salt, but much less so than in a conventionally chlorinated pool.

An ionizer not only keeps water sanitized, it makes the water feel silky smooth to the touch, using copper and sometimes silver ions to maintain cleanliness. No salt and little or no chlorine are used.

An oxidation system is a chemical-free way to keep pools disinfected using ultraviolet light or electricity; it requires a generator.

Production of ultrasonic waves pulsed through the water are the key to sonic cleaning; such a device destroys algae at a cellular level.

Creating a totally natural ecosystem pool employs plants to form a breathable bottom more akin to a lake. MotherEarthNews.com (which offers building instructions) notes, “It can be constructed for as little as $2,000 if you do it yourself, while conventional pools can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Natural swimming pools require no harmful chemicals, are fairly low-tech and once established, call for only a modicum of management. You won’t have to drain the pool each autumn.

Except for topping it off now and then, you’ll fill the pool only once.”

Source: Care2.com/greenliving.

Festival of Healing and Spiritual Awareness Intuitive counselors, energy healers, aura photography, vendors and 16 workshops on health and spirituality.

July 20-22, 2012 Friday, Intuitive Counselors Available, All Festival Services Available on Saturday, 9:45am - 8pm & Sunday, 10:45am - 6pm Sat. $10, Sun. $8, $15 weekend pass The Coop, 1100 Key Rd., Columbia (near Williams Brice Stadium)

Truth is not puffed up. Truth is in the gentle breeze of a whisper. ~ Kristi Posey 2001

For info & brochures contact Jan. (864) 233-3033 JanTheMother@aol.com 12

Columbia Edition

greenliving

Urban Walkabout Traveling Afoot Sustains a Sense of Community

by Meredith Montgomery

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hile traveling abroad, Dan Burden fell in love with some cities, but was unable to pinpoint why. “Then I realized that they were just like American cities, except they were designed the timehonored way, for people, and just accommodating their cars, not the other way around,” he says.

Imagine a busy, people-filled scene in Austin, TX, Fairbanks, AK or New York City, in contrast to an empty street in a sprawling, suburban neighborhood, with many garages, but few sidewalks and community parks. As co-founder of the Walkable and Livable Communities Institute (WalkLive.org), headquartered in Port Townsend, WA, Burden has spent the last 20 years imagining and fostering walkability by shifting the design focus of cities from cars to people. He believes a community qualifies as walkable when walking around in it is a natural activity.

Healthy, Economical, Sustainable Walkable towns are designed for universal use, catering to pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists, bus riders and shopkeepers of all ages. Sidewalks provide benches, shade and other amenities to make walking feasible and enjoyable. Streets are designed to keep

HealthyLivingColumbia.com

speeds low, with on-street parking, medians, trees and an absence of oneway roads that flush traffic in and out during rush hour. Walking and biking trails are well connected. Where culde-sacs fracture street layouts, trail links reconnect neighborhoods.

A walkable destination also includes an intact town center with a compact layout of mixed-income housing near businesses and schools. A library, post office, shops and restaurants enhance the central mix. Accessible public spaces, plus parks, provide gathering spots and meeting places.

Walkable features provide multiple benefits. Environmentally, they encourage smart property development. Rehabbed historic buildings become the place to live, work and play. Older, non-historic structures are replaced with compact, mixed-use buildings for street-level businesses with residential apartments above.

Without a need for massive parking lots and multiple driveways, town centers instead invest in green spaces and walkways.

While decreasing fossil fuel use by driving less, citizens simultaneously benefit in improved personal health as increased physical activity becomes a natural part of everyday life. According to the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, the average resident of a walkable neighborhood weighs

six to 10 pounds less than one from a sprawling neighborhood.

Improvements to increase walkability make economic sense; a valued, and thus valuable, investment, especially when municipal budgets are tight. “Municipalities simply can’t afford to build the massive-scale roads we need to keep traffic moving if we force everyone into their car all the time,” observes Burden.

Research by CEOs for Cities who analyzed data from 94,000 real estate transactions found that higher walkability scores were directly linked to higher home values in 13 of the 15 metro areas; homes that scored above average on walkability are worth $4,000 to $34,000 more than similar, but less walkable, homes.

Superior Quality of Life For Fairhope, AL, resident Daphne Dvorak, walking is a necessity. Since being diagnosed with macular degeneration two years ago, Dvorak hasn’t been able to drive.

“It’s a good thing I love walking,” she smiles. “I walk everywhere.” At 87 years young, her daily routine includes walking for coffee at 5:30 am before walking to work at a downtown bank and later, to the post office. She also walks to visit friends at a nearby retirement community, to church on Sundays and to the grocery store. Despite her inability to read street signs, Dvorak exclaims, “I’m amazed at everything I see when I walk. It’s surprising how much enjoyment you can get out of everything around you.”

Oakland, California resident Benjamin McGriff is grateful for the expanded sense of home afforded by walkable city life. He remarks, “The line between your autonomous life in your physical residence and shared, day-to-day experiences within a community becomes blurred.”

This heightened sense of connection to one’s neighborhood is inversely captured in Sightline Institute’s Cascadia Scorecard, which tracks seven trends crucial to a sustainable future for the Pacific Northwest: health, economy, population, energy, sprawl, wildlife

July 2012

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Advice from Walkability Experts

by Meredith Montgomery

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hile some big cities make it easy to live without a car, most modern American communities are lacking in walkability. According to Dan Burden, executive director of the Walkable and Livable Communities Institute, the best way to make improvements is to first bring like-minded citizens together. “It can happen around a school where parents have an interest in kids having a safer to-and-from journey,” he says. “Or it can start with a neighborhood where people realize what they’ve lost and want to get back, such as a park.”

Burden advises establishing a unified plan among community members before approaching city officials. He points out, “Quite often, city leaders want to improve walkability, but don’t feel they have the backing of citizens.”

Citizens wanting to initiate a movement toward a more walkable hometown can learn from these national initiatives: From Inspiration to Action (WalkLive.org/project/implementation-guide) AARP and the Walkable and Livable Communities Institute have published From Inspiration to Action: Implementing Projects to Support Active Living, a step-by-step guide to making streets more walkable. From working with local governments to securing funding, this comprehensive resource helps to mobilize concerned citizens.

Walking Advocates (AmericaWalks.org) This group engages, educates and connects walking advocates. Online tools guide citizens in forming a local advocacy group to change transportation policy.

Safe Routes to School (SafeRoutesInfo.org) Their participatory programs make bicycling and walking to school safer and more appealing to students, thus encouraging a healthy, active lifestyle from an early age. The website provides a step-by-step guide for creating a local program, classroom guides and curriculum, grant information and law enforcement resources.

Rails-to-Trails (RailsToTrails.org) A nationwide network of trails built from former rail lines continues to expand as area volunteers secure funding and permits. Those labeled rail-trails are multipurpose public paths that replace former railroad corridors, while rail-with-trails are public paths parallel to active rail lines.

“The benefits of making commercial districts and neighborhoods more walkable go beyond healthy lifestyles. Because baby boomers are going to need to rely less on driving as they age and the millennial generation favors a more urban experience, the demand for walkability will soar. There’s a direct economic payoff for investing in communities made for people, not just cars.” ~ Rick Cole, city manager, Ventura, California and pollution. They found that for every 10 minutes a person spends in a daily car commute, time spent in community activities falls by 10 percent.

The best benefits of walkable communities are less tangible and more intuited. Whether it’s the stimulating energy of a bustling big-city street corner or the tranquility of quiet spots with treeshaded public benches, walkable communities enjoy a character and quality that draws people in and grounds them in a satisfying sense of place.

“It’s why you often find people from such places celebrating and defending their particular enclave,” says McGriff, “as if the idea of that place is a part of their family. In a sense, it is.”

Meredith Montgomery is the publisher of Natural Awakenings Mobile/Baldwin, AL (HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet. com).

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Columbia Edition

by Judi Burton

Columbia is a great place to live, and comfortable in autumn, winter and spring, but in the summer it gets hot. Actually, hot is an understatement. Columbia is blistering in the summertime, and often referred to as the “screen door to hell.”

Most people go to the beach to swim and feel the ocean breeze, but some savvy people who prefer to avoid the crowds, run for the hills. The mountains of North Carolina and Georgia provide an escape from “vacationland,” where locals can go and be undisturbed for a week or two at a cozy bed and breakfast, or a romantic weekend at a vineyard. Families enjoy camping trips with the kids, trying out the zip-line and white water rafting. Some look for a sacred retreat to ground themselves in prayer and meditation. Here is a look at a few of the best-kept secrets for avoiding the crowds. Whether you are into camping, spas, spiritual retreats, agritourism or romantic destinations, there is something for everyone on this list of green getaways.

Grapefull Sisters Vineyard This seventh-generation family-owned vineyard produces wine from the muscadine grape, a variety originally eaten by the Waccamaw Siouan Indians who lived in the area. With more than150 varieties, the muscadine grape is naturally low in sugar and 40 times higher in antioxidants than other viniferous grapes. In Tabor City, NC, sisters Amy and Sheila invite visitors to stay at the Inn d’Vine Bed and Breakfast, which boasts an upstairs dwelling that can accommodate two couples for the couples romantic getaway retreat,

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complete with a full kitchen and common area. The Carolina room has a shower that doubles as a sauna. With second-floor rooms and a deck that wraps around the inn, visitors can sit back in the breeze, drink organic coffee, and enjoy the view of the grapevines against the North Carolina sky.

A large, plush tent is set up on a small creek in a private section of the Carrollwoods RV Park attached to the property. There, a sly wife might steal her husband away from his daily routines to go on a camping weekend, without having to do the drudgery of setting up a tent, starting a fire or even bringing water.

Everything is taken care of before you get there. The couple can add a custommade picnic basket with a bottle of wine and fall asleep in each other’s arms in an extremely soft queensize bed. Pets are allowed, even encouraged, with the advent of the recently established Bark Park. For those who would like to leave

their

mark, visitors can adopt a vineyard row for $300 that includes a plaque on the row post, three nights in the inn, a picnic basket, three bottles of wine and much more. Sponsors are encouraged to come out during the second week of September to help pick the grapes.

For more info on Grapefull Sisters Vineyard, visit GrapefullSistersVineyard. com or call 910-653-2944.

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poured water that she had collected from all around the world into this stream, while in prayer for the purification of our most precious resource.

A huge labyrinth sits in a meadow under the sun, and there is a large yurt for drum circles and other gatherings.

The retreat has three lodges to fit any size family, or just the single person. A new sweat lodge has been erected, which will be used frequently and safely by visitors to cleanse and ground their energy. Dogs are welcome as long as they are well behaved and are not prone to barking, as it is a place for quiet introspection, meditation and healing.

For more info and upcoming events, visit SacredGroveRetreat.com or call 704-463-0768.

Sacred Grove Retreat Sacred Grove Retreat in Gold Hill, NC, is a “playland” for the metaphysically inclined. After she had her fill of traveling the world, Ellen Whiteside took over the 11-acre retreat from a friend. This location has an “energy vortex” with a massive crystal quartz boulder and a small yurt (traditional round tent structure) for private meditation, massage, light therapy and more.

There is always some type of spiritual ceremony being held at Sacred Grove, including the recent Lighting of the Lights Ceremony that was led by 16 wisdom keepers gathered from around the world. A Yoruba priestess from Nigeria, channeling “Oshun,” or “The Mother,” blessed the stream that is nestled in the grove during this ceremony to pray for the waters of the Earth. A woman at this ceremony 16

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Enota Mountain Retreat A place to bring the family, this is the ultimate agritourism showcase, especially for the organic minded. Hugged by the 750,000-acre Chattahoochee National Forest, this ancient piece of land is a wanderer’s dream. There is an organic, biodynamic farm, which emphasizes the wholistic development and interrelationships of the soil, plants and animals as a self-sustaining system. By using naturally occurring fertilizers and herbal pest control systems, as well as relying mostly on rain for the watering, the farm is extremely Earthfriendly and sustainable. Kids are encouraged to come out and milk the cows, feed the chickens and collect the eggs.

Oh, and you can go, too.

Enota has many log cabins available for large families, plus a campground and private rooms overlooking a stream and a waterfall. While the kids are running around, jumping on trampolines and splashing in the water, the adults can enjoy a full-body massage and aromatherapy sessions. Ever wanted to walk at least part of the Appalachian Trail? There is a one-and-a-half mile hike to the famous path, perfect for the day hiker. Homemade and organic meals from the farm are available upon request and on weekends. No worries if you are vegan or vegetarian; just let them know ahead of time and Enota will accommodate your diet restrictions.

For more info, visit Enota.com or call 706-896-9966 or 800-990-8869.

Springbank Retreat Center for Eco-Spirituality and the Arts Summertime is not prime time to visit Springbank Retreat in Kingstree, SC, but as soon as September rolls around, it is in full swing with workshops and classes. The four Adrian Dominican Sisters, simply known as “The Sisters,” run Springbank and have a packed schedule of workshops on healing, native flute playing, drum making, sweat lodge ceremonies, pottery classes, 12-step programs, dream workshops, and so on. Visitors normally stay a few nights and pay an all-inclusive sum for food, lodging and the specific class of their choice.

Guests are encouraged to walk the old plantation property and enjoy the labyrinth, the 800-year-old grandmother oak tree, a prayer grotto, a wilderness swamp sanctuary, and a medicine wheel. The retreat has 28 guest rooms, allow-

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ing for the single person or an entire conference. Coming soon, there will be straw-bale-built guesthouses powered by sustainable sun and wind.

One-, two- and three-month sabbaticals are available in the winter and spring for people in need of a quiet place during a life transition or recovery. Those wishing to just go out for the day are welcome, and there are volunteer days where you put your energy into Springbank in return for food and friendship.

For more info, visit SpringBankRetreat.org or call 843382-9777.

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consciouseating

Tasty Ways to Savor Summer Grilled Black Bean Quinoa Patty

OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING Backyard & Picnic Party Foods S

by Renée Loux

ummer is the high season for outdoor gatherings to celebrate warm weather and make the most of evening’s lingering natural light. When it comes to outdoor entertaining, simple is generally better. Backyard cookouts and picnic takeouts call for tasty fare, light foods and nothing too fancy or fussy.

In most parts of the country, summer brings a bounty of just-picked produce, and the fresher it is, the fewer the steps required to make delicious dishes. By keeping just a few staples on hand—cold-pressed olive oil, garlic cloves, fresh herbs and lemons, a good sea salt and freshly ground pepper—the cook will always be prepared to put together a delectable, trouble-free spread.

Options run from grilled goodies to marinated and tossed salads that give the hosts time to enjoy their company.

Complete the treat by serving skewers of fresh, ripe, cut fruit for dessert—an easy, healthy and welcome alternative to rich and complicated or store-bought sweets.

Creating a fun and festive atmosphere for backyard gatherings is easy, without a lot of fanfare. String up twin-

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kly lights and use natural wax votive candles placed in empty jam and jelly jars to protect them from the wind. To ward off mosquitoes and generally keep bugs at bay, encircle the patio, deck or park picnic area with citronella candles or incense. Fire pits always make an outdoor gathering feel more special. A mesmerizing center of attention, they also warm up the evening as the temperature drops.

To keep serving and cleanup easy, use eco-friendly disposables.

Look for plates made from recycled content or bagasse (derived from sugar cane fiber), cutlery sourced from biodegradable, plant-based plastic and recycled-paper napkins. Give guests instant access to a nearby compost bin, garbage can and recycling bin, or designated carry-away bags.

Happy summering!

Renée Loux is an organic chef, restaurateur, green expert and media personality. Her books include Easy Green Living and The Balanced Plate. Visit ReneeLoux.com.

These flavorful patties are a hearty and complete source of protein, a popular, plant-based option for traditional burgers. Ground flaxseed mixed with water works to bind the ingredients together in place of eggs. When grilling, be careful to flip them gently, so that patties stay together; they’re equally delicious cooked in a skillet on the stove. Serve on a whole-grain pita and load on the toppings. For a gluten-free alternative, use ground tortilla chips instead of breadcrumbs.

Yields 6 to 8 burgers 1 15-oz can black beans, rinsed, drained and spread out to dry for 20 minutes; divide into two equal parts 2 Tbsp Vegenaise 2 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp dried oregano 1 tsp garlic powder ¼ to ½ tsp crushed red pepper (optional) 1 Tbsp ground flaxseed, mixed with 3 Tbsp water ½ cup cooked quinoa ½ cup breadcrumbs or ground tortilla chips, as needed 1 /3 cup finely chopped red onion ¼ cup chopped cilantro Sea salt Freshly ground black pepper Toppers Salsa Avocado slices Lettuce Sliced red onion Pickles 1. Drain and rinse black beans in a colander. Shake and let stand for a few minutes for excess liquid to drain.

Spread out on a clean, dry towel; blot dry with another clear, dry towel; and let stand to dry for 20 minutes. This can also be done in the oven—spread on a cookie sheet and dry at 300° F for 15 minutes.

3. In a small bowl, mix ground flaxseed and water. Let stand 5 minutes to thicken. Mix into the black bean mixture and add remaining beans, quinoa, breadcrumbs or ground tortilla chips, onion and cilantro. Mix until combined.

If the mixture looks too wet to hold together, add more breadcrumbs or ground tortilla chips. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

4. Form into 3- to 4-inch-circumference patties. If time allows, let chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours to firm and for flavors to develop.

5. On a grill preheated to mediumhigh and brushed with oil, cook patties until crisp and brown, turning once, 5 to 6 minutes on each side. Or heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook until browned, turning once, 5 to 6 minutes on each side.

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Grilled Portobello Mushrooms with Quinoa, Tomatoes and Herbs

2. Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar and thyme. Brush cleaned mushrooms with mixture and sprinkle with salt. Let stand 20 to 30 minutes.

Grilling mushrooms brings out their savory flavor. Stuffed with protein-rich quinoa, this dish is satisfying enough to be served as an entrée.

3. Grill on each side until grill marks appear, about 4 minutes per side. Or roast mushrooms under the broiler until juicy, about 10 minutes (optional).

Yields 6 servings 6 Portobello mushrooms, stems and gills removed 3 Tbsp olive oil 1 tsp balsamic vinegar ½ tsp dried thyme Sea salt 1 Tbsp olive oil 3 scallions, chopped 1 large clove garlic, minced ¾ cup uncooked quinoa 1½ cups water 1 low-sodium vegetable bullion cube 2 medium heirloom tomatoes, diced into ½-inch pieces 2 Tbsp chopped herbs—basil, parsley and/or mint Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste 1. Preheat grill to medium-high.

4. In a skillet with a tight-fitting lid, heat olive oil over medium heat, and sauté garlic and scallions with a pinch of salt and pepper just until fragrant, for about 1 minute. Add quinoa, water and bul-

photo by Stephen Gray Blancett

2. In a food processor, place half of the beans, Vegenaise, cumin, oregano, garlic powder and crushed red pepper. Chop in pulses to create a coarse purée. Transfer to a medium bowl.

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lion cube. Turn up heat, cover and bring to a boil. Stir once and reduce heat to low to simmer for 20 minutes or until all the liquid has been absorbed. Remove from heat and let stand for 10 minutes.

5. Fluff quinoa with a fork. Fold in tomatoes and herbs. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Pesto Grilled Corn on the Cob

A pesto-packed twist on a backyard party classic, grilling corn in its husk yields tender kernels and a delectable natural sweetness.

Yields 4 to 6 servings 3 medium heirloom tomatoes, cored and cut into ¾-inch pieces 1 cup watermelon, cut into ¾-inch cubes 1 cucumber, peeled, seeded and cut into ¾-inch cubes 1 avocado, cut in half, pitted and cut into ¾-inch cubes ½ cup pitted green olives, chopped (Castelvetrano olives recommended) 1 Tbsp chopped basil 1 Tbsp chopped mint 2 Tbsp olive oil 2 Tbsp white balsamic vinegar or champagne vinegar Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste 1. In a bowl, place tomatoes, watermelon, cucumber, avocado, olives, basil and mint. Toss gently.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour over tomato-watermelon mixture and toss gently to mix. Season to taste with more salt and pepper.

Serve immediately.

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photo by Stephen Gray Blancett

This dish embodies the zenith of summer, when watermelon and tomatoes are at their height. Paired with refreshing cucumber, buttery avocado, savory olives and bright herbs, this pastiche of flavor and texture is a perfect accompaniment to any backyard or picnic party.

7. Remove from grill and generously brush with pesto. Sprinkle with sea salt and pepper if desired and serve hot.

Brown Rice Summer Succotash Pasta Salad

6. Place mushrooms cap-side down on a serving platter. Fill the cavity of the mushrooms with the quinoa mixture.

Serve warm or at room temperature.

Watermelon Mediterranean Salad with Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Avocado and Olives

each side. Remove from the grill, let it cool enough to touch and then remove husks. Return to grill and cook, turning to lightly char all sides, for an additional 5 to 7 minutes total.

Yields 6 servings 6 ears unhusked corn Pesto 1 cup packed basil leaves 1 clove garlic 2 Tbsp pine nuts 1½ Tbsp lemon juice 1 tsp sea salt 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper 6 Tbsp olive oil 1. Oil grill and preheat to medium high.

2. Fill a large bowl with cold water.

3. Keeping the husks attached at the base, peel back the husks of each cob and remove the silk. Cover the cobs again with the husk.

4. Soak the corncobs in cold water for 5 to 10 minutes to prevent husks from charring too quickly.

5. In a food processor, place basil, garlic, pine nuts, lemon juice, salt and pepper and chop in pulses for maximum mixing. With the motor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil. Set aside.

6. Place corn, covered in its husk on the grill. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on

This festive summer pasta medley is a great picnic food. Brown rice pasta is a tasty, gluten-free alternative to traditional wheat pasta and full of wholegrain goodness.

Yields 6 to 8 servings 1 lb brown rice pasta—elbow, penne or rotini shape 4 Tbsp olive oil; divide into two equal portions 1 cup chopped red onion 1 large clove garlic, minced 4 ears corn, kernels cut off (2 to 2½ cups) 3 cups cherry tomatoes, cut in half 2 cups frozen shelled edamame, thawed ¼ cup chopped parsley leaves 1 Tbsp lemon juice Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and stir. Cook until firm to the bite, al dente, according to the directions on the package.

Be careful not to overcook the pasta, as it will become mushy. Drain in a colander, rinse and drain again. Drizzle with a touch of olive oil to prevent sticking and let cool in the colander, stirring occasionally.

2. Heat up a large skillet to medium hot. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil, onion and pinch of salt and sauté, stirring occasionally until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add corn, tomatoes and edamame, and stir to combine. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover and cook until corn is tender, stirring occasion-

ally, about 10 to 15 minutes. Remove from heat.

3. In a large bowl, place pasta, vegetable mixture and parsley and mix to combine. Add remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil, lemon juice and season to taste with salt and pepper. Let cool, then place in the fridge to chill.

Napa Cabbage Asian Slaw

This colorful, Asian-inspired slaw is fresh, flavorful and a great complement to grilled foods and summer feasts. Almond butter in the dressing lends a light creaminess and scallions, ginger and garlic create a savory, spicy triumph of taste.

Yields 4 to 6 servings Dressing 3 Tbsp olive oil 3 Tbsp rice vinegar 2 Tbsp almond butter 1½ Tbsp soy sauce 1 Tbsp minced peeled fresh ginger 1 clove garlic, minced 1 Tbsp maple syrup or honey 1 tsp bottled toasted sesame oil ¼ tsp dried chili flakes (optional) 4 cups thinly sliced Napa cabbage 4 scallions, thinly sliced 1 medium carrot, shredded 1 red bell pepper, cut into matchstick strips 1 cup thinly sliced snow peas Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Homemade Cherry-Vanilla Soda Pop

This crimson, creamy soda is reminiscent of the classic version. Reducing the cherry juice sweetens and intensifies the flavor; no additional sugar is required. Fresh vanilla bean is key and worth seeking out.

Yields 6 servings 3 cups 100 percent unsweetened black cherry juice 1 vanilla bean (about 6 inches long) Seltzer or soda water 1. Place black cherry juice and vanilla bean in a medium-size saucepan.

Cover and bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, until liquid has reduced to 1 cup. Remove from heat and let cool until comfortable to handle.

2. Remove vanilla bean and chill the syrup in a sealed glass jar in the fridge.

It will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.

3. To serve, pour ¼ cup syrup into a tall glass, top with 6 to 8 ounces chilled seltzer or soda water, and stir.

Add ice as desired.

Strawberry Honey Lemonade This honey-sweetened lemonade is flush with fresh strawberries for a perfect balance of flavor and thirstquenching enjoyment.

Yields 4 to 6 servings

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, rice vinegar, almond butter, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, maple syrup or honey, sesame oil and chili flakes (if desired). Dressing can be made up to one day ahead. Let come to room temperature before tossing and serving.

1 pint strawberries, washed, trimmed and cut in half 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4 lemons) 2 /3 cup honey ½ cup warm water 5 cups cold water

2. In a large bowl, mix together Napa cabbage, scallions, carrot, bell pepper and snow peas. Add dressing and toss to thoroughly coat. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Let stand 15 minutes before serving for flavors to develop.

1. In a blender, place strawberries and ¼ cup lemon juice and blend until smooth. Pour through a fine sieve and press with the back of a spoon or pour through a strainer lined with cheesecloth to extract as much liquid as pos-

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sible. Discard pulp.

2. In a pitcher, mix together honey and warm water and stir until honey is dissolved. Add strawberry juice, remaining lemon juice and cold water. Mix well and serve over ice.

Watermelon-Mint Limeade 1 small watermelon (or half of a larger melon), diced 1 /3 cup fresh lime juice 1 /3 cup agave nectar 2 Tbsp chopped mint 1 Tbsp chopped basil Pinch crushed sea salt 2 cups ice

1. Using a chinois or other fine-mesh strainer, push the watermelon through the mesh using a sturdy wooden spoon, to push through all the liquid into a bowl, leaving behind the pulp and seeds. Pour the liquid into a pitcher with the lime juice, agave nectar and a pinch of salt. Chill well.

2. Just before serving, add the mint and basil to the liquid, and blend the mixture in the blender in two batches, adding a cup of ice to each batch.

Future fun: Freeze leftover portions into popsicles for an easy treat on another day.

Recipes from The Balanced Plate and Living Cuisine, by Renée Loux, and ReneeLoux.com; limeade recipe courtesy of Beth Bader, co-author of The Cleaner Plate Club.

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The Ultimate Minimalist Five Powerful Lessons from Gandhi

by Arvind Devalia

“You may have occasion to possess or use material things, but the secret of life lies in never missing them.” ~ Mohandas Gandhi

P

olitical and spiritual leader Mohandas Gandhi practiced total simplicity and minimalism, leaving an admirable legacy of how to live. Born into a prosperous family, he enjoyed a privileged upbringing and studied law at University College, London, in England. When he left Earth, he had fewer than 10 possessions.

In contrast, most of us tend to spend a lot of time and energy accumulating and looking after possessions; by having less, life naturally becomes simpler. We can take up author Dave Bruno’s The 100 Thing Challenge and start cutting down to bare basics by recycling, refusing to accept more stuff and giving away or selling unwanted possessions.

Accumulate little. Gandhi believed in possessing only the clothes, sandals, watch and spectacles he wore and some cooking and eating utensils.

He would give away or auction any gift he received.

Eat simple food. Gandhi never had a problem being overweight. He followed a strict vegetarian diet and frequently cooked his own simple, locally produced foods. He ate from a small bowl, a reminder to eat moderately and mindfully, often accompanied by prayers.

Dress simply. Gandhi wore simple clothes, often just a wraparound cloth, for modesty and comfort. A simple hairstyle can shorten daily grooming.

Gandhi shaved off his hair.

Lead a simple, stress-free life.

Gandhi meditated daily and spent hours in reflection and prayer. Though he was a revered world leader, he led a simple life with few distractions and commitments and would interrupt political meetings to play with children.

Gandhi insisted on doing his own simple tasks. He advocated self-sufficiency and simple work.

Let your life be your message. A prolific, concise writer and powerful speaker in public; in private, Gandhi spoke quietly and only when necessary.

He preferred to let his life talk for him.

By living a simple life, Gandhi was able to devote himself to his chosen higher purpose and focus on his commitment to his people and the world.

Accordingly, consistent focus determines anyone’s success and the potential for leaving one’s own inspiring legacy.

Arvind Devalia is the author of the bestselling Get the Life You Love, an inspirational coach and prolific blogger.

Connect at ArvindDevalia.com/blog.

SIMPLE SUMMER PLEASURES

Sweet, Easy, Perfect

by Claire O’Neil

Summer ever beckons with the freedom of possibilities that long sunny days foster. It’s a perfect time to cultivate the art of

treating ourselves to simple pleasures.

W

hy? Author Neil Pasricha observes, “I like to stop and remember sometimes that we’ll never be as young as we are right now. We only get 100 years or so to enjoy interior design, books, buffets and radio waves, clean sheets and good movie seats, bakery air, rain hair, bubble wrap and illegal naps.”

The Toronto-based creator of the international bestseller, The Book of Awesome: Snow Days, Bakery Air, Finding Money in Your Pocket, and Other Simple, Brilliant Things, is on such a roll that he keeps adding to the list at 1000AwesomeThings.com.

All it takes to travel this pleasurable path is a little attitude adjustment and awareness, agrees Victoria Moran, author of Creating a Charmed Life. She

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suggests we continually ask, “What simple thing can I do today that will make it an amazing day?”

What follows is not exactly a bucket list, but more like a summer “sand pail,” sparked by Natural Awakenings publishers and contributors around the country. Taking cues from summers past and present, they are happy to offer a springboard to enjoyment.

Acting Like a Kid Again

Just the thought of summer days to come brings back memories of free time, family vacations and outdoor fun. Whether we go swimming, sip real lemonade on the porch or catch and release fireflies with our kids or grandkids, we love renewing that “in

the moment” feeling for ourselves.

“I love hanging out with 3-yearolds,” says Pasricha, “because they’re still seeing the world for the first time.

Every moment is right now.”

If you’re having trouble reaching your inner child, “think of how you were when you were 10 years old,” suggests Joy Behar, comedian and cohost of The View. “What did you like to do then?” Sometimes revisiting a childhood pleasure or two can provide the missing link to fresh summer fun. Here are some likely candidates.

Retro sweets. “Every time I heard the tinkling bell of the ice cream truck, I would run out on bare feet for a treat, stubbing my big toe more times than I want to remember,” recalls Las Vegas publisher Mary Ruetten of childhood summers in Southern California. Today, fresh fruit does the trick for her.

A dip in the ol’ swimming hole.

Reid Boyer, who publishes in Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley, observes: “Anyone that has experienced high summer heat knows the relief of a good, cool swimming hole. I still remember when my 4-year-old son and I packed up the pickup truck, drove to the community beach at the local lake and set up our picnic lunch, beach chairs and toys. We must have jumped off the end of that pier 100 times each, doing silly jumps and egging each other on to top the last pratfall. We laughed until our bellies hurt.”

Bike riding and kite flying. “My all-time favorite summertime treat is bike riding,” says Tina Woods, Natural Awakenings’ New York City publisher.

“Being free and blowing in the wind is sheer exuberance. Flying a kite feels like that too, and anytime I pass a kite off to someone else a huge smile breaks out across their face. It’s beautiful to see!”

Horseback riding. Amy Hass, a longtime publisher in West Michigan, notes: “My fondest summer pastime as a girl was spending every daylight hour with my horse. I would get to the barn early in the morning when there was still dew on the ground and spend all day cleaning up the stalls and barn, grooming my horse and then taking her out on country trails

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or maybe along the train tracks, or else practicing in the ring for our next show. She loved cooling off by going for a swim in Lake Michigan.”

Superheroics. Why not, asks Natural Awakenings contributor Bill Van Arsdale, of Naples, FL, who recalls a favorite summer adventure on Cape Cod. “We would tie long beach towels around our necks that reached our ankles, rear back and run as fast as we could through the scrub grass and moss to the edge, where the hard surface broke off into a plunging dune that met the Atlantic shore. For a brief moment, yelling ‘Superman,’ capes flapping, arms and legs flailing, we all became our hero, before landing in a delightful steep skid of clay, pebbles and coarse glacial sand.”

Indulging the Senses

The sights, sounds, smells, tastes and textures of summer are easy to discover and recreate. They can be as simple as making the most of…

Tai chi at dawn. For Atlanta publisher Larissa Stewart, taking her Tai chi or yoga practice outside—by a lake or stream—is a great way to start her day. “In the early morning, there is often a cool mist rising from the earth that feels so delicate on your skin and refreshing to breathe. Everything is at

peace around you accompanied by the quiet twitter of birds as they awake with the morning sun.”

Red wine at sunset. Jeff Browne, who publishes in New Mexico, loves getting out on a Vespa and scootering around by himself into the sunset.

“Other times, I like to sit with friends on the portal (a New Mexican porch) and have a relaxing and feel-good therapeutic discussion, maybe accompanied by a glass of wine.”

Dining alfresco. “On summer evenings,” says Northern California publisher Jaime Mitchell, “my loved ones and I take every opportunity to indulge in outdoor meals, complete with citronella candles and cool, crisp salads featuring our state’s fresh summer fruits.

Strawberries, peaches and nectarines become staples in my diet during warm months.”

Classic clambake. As a youth, South Jersey publisher Don Moore spent summer vacations on Cape Cod, where, “days spent by the water’s edge annually culminated in a classic neighborhood New England clambake.”

Constructing the rock-lined pit and stoking the fire took all day, remembers Moore. “Layers of potatoes, lobster, mussels, corn and clams were laid between rockweed. After we

covered the pit with a wet tarp and buried it under sand, mouthwatering aromas would begin to escape into the breezy evening air.” He adds, “I always felt close to nature when sitting on the beach listening to the crashing waves, while filling my hungry belly from a plate brimming with the ocean’s bounty.”

Stargazing… on land. Graphic designer Steve Hagewood, of Bonita Springs, FL, grew up in Nashville, TN, where he began a lifelong fascination with the night sky. “Pop bought a pair of high-powered military binoculars at an army surplus sale after the big war; I had a smaller pair from Sears Roebuck & Co. We would wrangle in good spirits over who got which pair and how long each of us could hold onto them amid the stillness of the cool, night air filled with the sweet fragrances of honeysuckle and moonflowers,” he remembers.

… and on water. Peggy Malecki, Natural Awakenings’ Chicago publisher, loves the starry view from a friend’s sailboat on Lake Michigan. On one notable trip in a race across the lake, “in the wee hours of the midnight watch, the entire Milky Way galaxy stretched directly over the top of the boat as we caught small zephyrs off Traverse Bay,” she says.

“Watching the Perseid meteor shower, we counted shooting stars and watched for satellites crawling through the night sky.”

Personal Pursuits

“Having space and time to nurture our creativity may be one of people’s authentic hungers,” muses author Sarah Ban Breathnach, well known for her Simple Abundance books. She suggests maybe allotting an hour a day to dabble in a hobby, to paint, to plot or to throw pots. It can feel like taking a little vacation every day.

“Some days are shaped by summer pleasures, others are redeemed by them,” concludes Breathnach in Simple Pleasures. Making time for such simple joys nurtures an ongoing summer vacation state of mind.

Claire O’Neil is a freelance writer in Kansas City, MO. 24

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wisewords

The Truth About GMOs Plant Pathologist Don Huber Reveals the Risks

by Melinda Hemmelgarn

A

t least 70 percent of processed foods in supermarkets contain genetically modified (GMO) ingredients, mainly from corn, soy, canola, sugar beets and cottonseed oil. Yet the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not require GMO food labeling, despite overwhelming consumer support for their “right to know.”

Genetic engineering goes beyond traditional plant breeding because it allows scientists to cross species barriers and insert a gene from one organism into another that would not normally occur. Examples include inserting bacterial DNA into a plant to effect traits such as pest or herbicide resis-

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tance. Plant pathologist and Purdue University professor emeritus Don Huber, PhD, speaks out internationally about the risky business of biotechnology.

We are told we need GMOs to “feed the world,” but will GMOs provide affordable food for the masses, as Monsanto ads tell us?

There is nothing in the GMO process that has added any new yield potential to any crop. All of the yield increases achieved in the past 15 years have been through traditional breeding programs.

When professor Karen McAfee, an

economist at Yale University, analyzed the GMO claim, she found that the only entity that benefited was the biotechnology industry (Geoforum report). Nutritional quality has suffered, food safety has been compromised by the toxic entities involved in the genetic engineering process and farmers’ production costs have increased significantly, while quality and harvested yield potential have decreased. What we see in practice are failed promises.

What is the risk and potential harm to people and the planet due to GMOs? There are two serious risk factors involved in current genetically engineered plants. The first is an increase in plant, animal and human diseases plus pests associated with GMO crops, reported by sources as diverse as the European Journal of Agronomy, Earth Open Source and the University of Leipzig, in Germany. The second is abusive use of the chemical products that the herbicide-tolerant GMOs have been developed to tolerate; supporting studies include research published in the European Journal of Agronomy and the Fluid Fertilizer Foundation’s Forum.

For example, glyphosate in many weed killer formulations is used excessively both on Roundup-ready crops and as a single chemical for general weed control. This has resulted in super weeds, super pathogens, compromised

natural biological controls and devastated components of the soil biology responsible for nutrient availability and function.

Recent research from institutions around the world, including the UK’s King’s College and Leipzig University, is now showing a link between GMO crops and/or the products they produce or tolerate and increased incidence of mutations, chronic fatigue syndrome, Parkinson’s disease, allergies, birth defects, cancer, reproductive failure and other health effects. It is a heavy price for society to pay for a massive experiment.

Scientists also are seeing hazardous levels of some of the products excessively used to grow GMO crops accumulating in the Earth’s soil, water and air. The biodegrading process of those substances often takes much longer than anticipated, and damage to non-target crops, plants and organisms is becoming a serious concern (Plant and Soil and Geoderma).

Scientists also are finding that such “foreign” genes in the environment are quite promiscuous and can persist, perhaps indefinitely, in soil, intestinal or plant environments with unknown health consequences (Reproductive Toxicology, Aquaculture Research and Journal of Agricultural Food Chemistry).

Several countries have banned importing crops grown in any field where one of five corn hybrids were previously grown, for instance, because soil microbes have picked up the GMO genes from decomposing plant residues and can transmit the genes to future crops—resulting in the toxic product possibly being present in the later crop. No one knows how to remove

the GMO foreign genes once they are introduced.

Looking to the future, should we be concerned by chemical companies’ lobbying for approval of the next leap in GMOs, to 2,4-D resistant crops?

Like glyphosate tolerance, 2,4-D resistance is based on flawed science and a failure to understand that agriculture is the management of a delicately interrelated ecological system, comprised of the plant and its various environments (biological, chemical and physical), rather than the selection of “silver bullets.” Adding 2,4-D tolerance introduces another foreign and potentially toxic protein in the plant and an additional toxic chemical applied directly to food and animal feed. Food safety, nutritional quality and potential yield will all be compromised in the process.

known local growers, and stay alert to the issue to take needed grassroots actions. Future historians may well remark not about how many pounds of pesticide we did or didn’t apply, but how willing we were to sacrifice our children and jeopardize future generations for the massive flawed experiment of genetic engineering only to benefit the bottom line of a commercial enterprise.

Petition the FDA today to require labeling of GMO foods at JustLabelIt.org.

Melinda Hemmelgarn, aka the “Food Sleuth,” is a registered dietitian and award-winning writer and radio host at kopn.org, in Columbia, MO (FoodSleuth@gmail.com). Hear her interview with Don Huber at Tinyurl. com/foodsleuth.

Do you see any benefits from this technology?

The GMO technology could be a powerful tool when we gain enough understanding to use it properly and effectively. We are a long way from gaining that essential understanding.

The current rush to commercialize it and widespread implementation of the associated hazardous and ineffective products currently on the market may well be a major deterrent to future use of the technology when it is properly understood.

What can people do to avoid GMOs and protect their health?

Family is not an important thing, it’s everything. ~Michael J. Fox

Buy organic foods, preferably from

Make your community a little GREENER...

Support our advertisers.

For every $100 spent in locally owned businesses, $68 returns to the community.

source: the350project.net

HealthyLivingColumbia.com

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calendarofevents NOTE: All calendar listings must be received by June 10 (for July issue) and adhere to our guidelines. Submit calendar entries and check for calendar guidelines, updates and cancellations online at HealthyLivingColumbia.com ALWAYS CALL AHEAD BEFORE ATTENDING EVENTS TO AVOID LATE CANCELLATIONS AND CHANGES

SUNDAY, JULY 1 Men’s Spirituality Group at Unity−9:3010:30am. “How Men’s Issues Relate to Our Spirituality”. Lively discussion to define what guys see as their most important concerns. Newcomers welcome. Love offering. Unity of Columbia SEE Room, 1801 LeGrand Rd, Columbia, 803-7365766, UnityColumbiaSC.org.

The Healing Circle at Unity w/Deborah King– 12:30-2pm. Will continue to build on matrix, quantum energetics and will add “The Five Elements” from Oriental Wisdom and Reflexology to the group’s wisdom. Newcomers welcome. Love offering. Unity of Columbia, 1801 LeGrand Rd, Columbia. Info: 803-549-6302 or email unitycolumbia@att.net.

TUESDAY, JULY 3 Reiki Clinic w/Margaret Self–10:30am-12:30pm.

Join us as we share Reiki treatments in a group.

Open to all, no training necessary. Great intro to Reiki energy. $10, must preregister. Carolina Reiki Institute, 112 Wexwood Ct, Columbia. Info: 803551-1191 or CarolinaReikiInstitute.com.

THURSDAY, JULY 5 Natural Awakenings Discount at Rosewood– 8am-8pm. 20% off purchase price at Rosewood Market, Deli and other sale items not incl. 2803 Rosewood Dr in Columbia. RosewoodMarket. com, 803-530-3270.

Reiki Clinic w/Margaret Self–5:30-8pm. Join us as we share Reiki treatments in a group. Open to all, no training necessary. Great intro to Reiki energy. $10, must preregister. Carolina Reiki Institute, 112 Wexwood Ct, Columbia. Info: 803-551-1191 or CarolinaReikiInstitute.com.

SUNDAY, JULY 8 Columbia Eckankar Worship Service–10am.

“Key to a Happier Life” Free, all are welcome.

7 Oaks Park, 200 Leisure Lane. Info: Steve, 803318-1887, ECK-SC.org, or Meetup.com/Columbiaspiritual-seekers/.

Laughter Yoga for Health and Wellbeing w/ Dr. Delores Pluto–12:30-1:30pm. Laugh for no reason, without jokes, comedy, or humor. Laughter Yoga=laughter exercises+yoga breathing. Come as you are. No experience, special clothing, or equipment necessary. Donations accepted. Unity of Columbia, 1801 LeGrand Rd, Columbia, 803530-6199. UnityColumbiaSC.org.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 11 Tasty Tomato Contest Entries–4-6pm. At the All-Local Farmers Market, 711 Whaley Street, Columbia. Categories: Best Red, Yellow, Purple, Small, Unusual, Public Garden (school, church,

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community), or grown by a child. Please view contest details: SustainableMidlands.org.

THURSDAY, JULY 12 Living to 100 w/Columbia Family Chiropractic– 6:30pm. Learn how to live a happy and healthy, and long life through five essentials: lose weight, feel better, have more energy, and live an over-all better life. Free. 224 O’Neil Ct, Suite 12, Columbia, 803 788-8831, MaximizedLivingDrStetson.com.

JULY 12-13 Reiki Level I, Traditional Usui Reiki System w/ Margaret Self, Reiki Master, NHD–1-5pm. Entrylevel class combines 4 attunements, instruction, discussion & practice time. Can be used in any situation to promote healing & wellness, on self & others. Manual included. Preregistration reqd. $250 before 7/2, $300 after, Carolina Reiki Institute, 112 Wexwood Ct, Cola. 803-551-1191 or CarolinaReikiInstitute.com.

FRIDAY, JULY 13 Natural Awakenings Discount at Rosewood– 8am-8pm. 20% off purchase price at Rosewood Market, Deli and other sale items not incl. 2803 Rosewood Dr in Columbia. RosewoodMarket. com, 803-530-3270.

JULY 14-15 Jin Shin Jyutsu Self-Help–Getting to Know (Help) Myself w/Margaret Self, Jin Shin Jyutsu Practitioner and Reiki Master–9am-5pm. Two day class covers the philosophy and the tools of the art for use on oneself and family. Three SelfHelp textbooks by Mary Burmeister provided.

Class time includes instruction & practice time.

Preregistration required with $50 deposit, $150 balance due by class. Info, 803 551-1191, mself@ carolinareikiinstitute.com.

SUNDAY, JULY 15 Community HU Sing–10am. HU (pronounced Hue) is a spiritual sound that connects us with the Holy Spirit (God’s Life Force). It is a love song to God and is very uplifting, especially in a group setting, sung for about 20 min. Refreshments follow.

Free, all are welcome. 7 Oaks Park, 200 Leisure Lane. Info: Steve, 803-318-1887, ECK-SC.org, or Meetup.com/Columbia-spiritual-seekers/.

3rd Tasty Tomato Festival at City Roots Farm.

Celebrating sustainable food, local agriculture and living green. $5 early bird discount, $10 advance, $15 at the gate and $20 VIP. 1005 Airport Blvd, Columbia. Info: TastyTomatoFest.org.

Drumming Circle at Unity–12:30-1:30pm. We provide drums–just bring great rhythm. Unity of Columbia, 1801 LeGrand Rd, 803-530-6199.

UnityColumbiaSC.org.

MONDAY, JULY 16 Gluten Free Meeting w/Central SC Celiac Support Group–6:30pm. All welcome, including spouses & kids. No dues Lexington Medical Center’s North Tower, Classroom # 1. Info: 803 463-2321 or email midlandsceliacs@gmail.com, sites.google.com/ site/midlandsceliacs

TUESDAY, JULY 17 Soul Light Healing Sessions w/ Rev. Dr. Olympia Freeman, CHt 1:30–6:30pm. Be who your soul calls you to be. Clear emotional and karmic issues, release ancestral/family patterns, traumas. Connect with higher self. Energy facilitator, 30 years exp.

Relieve pain and stress with TRI-OM Touch Healing. Private limited openings. Fees start at $60.

CHI, 1204 Lexington Ave Irmo. 828-226-0660, SoulsMidwife.com.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 18 Natural Awakenings Discount at Rosewood– 8am-8pm. 20% off purchase price at Rosewood Market, Deli and other sale items not incl. 2803 Rosewood Dr in Columbia. RosewoodMarket. com, 803-530-3270.

SATURDAY, JULY 21 dōTERRA Essential Oils Class–1-3pm. Learn how dōTERRA essential oils can improve your health. Class is FREE to everyone. Fraternal Order Of Police Midlands Lodge 4965 Broad River Rd. Columbia Contact William Richardson with any questions. 803-665-2943

savethedate Festival of Healing & Spiritual Awareness– 9:45am-8pm Sat, 10:45am-6pm Sun. Intuitive counselors, alternative healers, aura photography, vendors & 16 workshops and lectures on health and spirituality. Hosted by Class ActJan Posey, with Dr. Eugie Tindal-Kirkpatrick, Hilda Booth, Val Ryan, Dick Lowdermilk, Danny Miller and others.

JULY 21-22 Special private Friday sessions by appointment 4:30-7:30pm. Food services provided. At The Coop, 1100 Key Road next to Williams Brice Stadium, Columbia. Admission : $10 Sat, $8 Sun, $15 weekend pass. Info: 864 2333033, janthemother@aol.com.

SUNDAY, JULY 22

SUNDAY, AUGUST 12

Friendship Sunday–11am.. Bring a friend to Unity’s Sunday 11am Celebration Service and share a potluck dish afterward . Unity cookbooks available in the Bookstore. 1801 LeGrand Rd, Columbia, 803-530-6199. UnityColumbiaSC.org.

Community HU Sing–10am. HU (pronounced Hue) is a spiritual sound that connects us with the Holy Spirit (God’s Life Force). It is a love song to God and is very uplifting, especially in a group setting, sung for about 20 min. Refreshments follow.

Free, all are welcome. 7 Oaks Park, 200 Leisure Lane. Info: Steve, 803-318-1887, ECK-SC.org, or Meetup.com/Columbia-spiritual-seekers/.

THURSDAY, JULY 26 Reiki Level II, Traditional Usui Reiki System w/Margaret Self, Reiki Master, NHD–5pm-9pm.

Attunement connects student to a higher, more focused vibration of the Reiki energy. Techniques for distance healing. Healing of spiritual/emotional issues taught. Discussion, practice time & manual included. Preregistration req. $300 before 7/16, $350 if paid after. Carolina Reiki Institute, 112 Wexwood Ct, Cola. Info: 551-1191, CarolinaReikiInstitute.com.

SATURDAY, JULY 28 Free Essential Oils Class w/Expecting Well– 12:30pm. Learn about dōTERRA essential oils and how they can enhance your wellness. Topic: Medicine Cabinet Make-Over. Please pre-register.

Expecting Well, 514-A Gervais, Columbia. 803661-8452, ExpectingWell.com.

lookingforward WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 1

Natural Awakenings Discount at Rosewood– 8am-8pm. 20% off purchase price at Rosewood Market, Deli and other sale items not incl. 2803 Rosewood Dr in Columbia. RosewoodMarket. com, 803-530-3270.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 1 HypnoBirthing Class w/Denby Beauchamp.

Enjoy a calm, safe, more comfortable birth experience through self-hypnosis, guided imagery, and breathing techniques. Achieve a shorter, easier, drug-free birth. 4 weeks. Contact Denby for details and registration: 803-667-1371.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 14 Harvest and Art–6-9pm. Sustainable Farm to table dinner by local Chef Ryan Whittaker inspired by works on display at the Columbia Museum of Art. 4 course dinner with wine pairings, dining with your Chef and local Farmers. At 116 State Espresso and Wine Bar. Ticket includes American Harvest Organic Spirit speciality cocktail using local ingredients. 803 791-5663, 116 State St., West Columbia, 116state.com.

AUGUST 16-17 Reiki Level I, Traditional Usui Reiki System w/Margaret Self, Reiki Master, NHD–5pm-9pm.

Entry-level class combines 4 attunements, instruction, discussion & practice time. Can be used in any situation to promote healing & wellness, on self & others. Manual included. Preregistration reqd. $250 before 8/6, $300 after, Carolina Reiki Institute, 112 Wexwood Ct, Cola. 803-551-1191 or CarolinaReikiInstitute.com.

MONDAY, AUGUST 20 The Midlands Celiac Support Dining Out–6pm.

All welcome, including spouses & kids. No dues.

Dining out: Outback Steakhouse, Harbison location, Columbia, Rebekah Godfrey 803-530-7234, Facebook: Celiac Pal, CentralSCCeliacSupportGroup.club.officelive.com.

ongoing events

THURSDAY, AUGUST 2 Reiki Clinic w/Margaret Self–5:30am-8pm. Join us as we share Reiki treatments in a group. Open to all, no training necessary. Great intro to Reiki energy. $10, must preregister. Carolina Reiki Institute, 112 Wexwood Ct, Columbia. Info: 803-551-1191 or CarolinaReikiInstitute.com.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 7 Reiki Clinic w/Margaret Self–10:30am-12:30pm.

Join us as we share Reiki treatments in a group.

Open to all, no training necessary. Great intro to Reiki energy. $10, must preregister. Carolina Reiki Institute, 112 Wexwood Ct, Columbia. Info: 803551-1191 or CarolinaReikiInstitute.com.

Green Drinks–5:30-8pm. For all in green building, sales, conservation, recycling, nature & politics to gather for fun & shared enlightenment. Check Facebook: Green Drinks Columbia. For the August location or visit KeeptheMidlandsBeautiful.com.

HealthyLivingColumbia.com

Have You Had a Spiritual Experience? Meet in a comfortable and informal setting where all Spiritual points of view are appreciated, nondogmatic approach. Free, sponsored by Eckankar.

Past discussion topics: Past Lives, God Realization, Dreams, and Coincidences. an important forum for all who love God who are serious about their Spiritual growth. Dates and times vary, see contact info for update. Steve at 803-318-1887, ECK-SC. org, or meetup.com/columbia-spiritual-seekers/.

Atom Smashing Power of Mind Book Study Class w/LaVoice Kallestad–9:30-10:30am (Sundays thru 7/8). In-depth book study by author Charles Filmore. Fillmore approaches the spiritual realm from the viewpoint of science, takes it apart, demystifies the “holiness” of our relationship to God and the universe and “re-mystifies” Jesus’ teachings as scientific theory. Love offering. Unity

of Columbia, 1801 LeGrand Rd, 803-530-6199.

UnityColumbiaSC.org.

Unity Sunday Meditation Hour–9:30-10:30am.

(7/15, 22, 29, not 7/8) in SEE Library at Unity of Columbia, 1801 LeGrand Rd, 803-530-6199.

UnityColumbiaSC.org.

Christ Unity Celebration Service −11am. Prayer, meditation, great music and a series of uplifting messages from a variety of interesting speakers.

Youth programs and bookstore open 9-11am. Unity of Columbia, 1801LeGrand Rd., Columbia, 803530-6199, UnityColumbiaSC.org Jubilee! Circle w Rev. Candace ChellewHodge–11am. A progressive, inclusive community influenced by Creation Spirituality, ecumenical, feminist, and traditional Christian theologies. No matter who you are, or where you are on life’s journey, you’re welcome. 1st Sun-Potluck and guided discussion, 2nd Sun-Celebration Service, 3rd Sun Faith on Film, 4th Sun-Celebration Service with Communion, 5th Sun-Jubilee! The Musical.

Love offering, 2730 Millwood Ave, Columbia, JubileeCircleUCC.com.

Grandparent’s Day–all day. KD’s loves Grandparents at the treehouse. To show their appreciation, they offer 15% off regular priced merchandise (excluding strollers, breast pumps & accessories, and art) KD’s Treehouse. 2911 Devine St, 803-7480198, KDsTreehouse.com.

Aikido w/Walter Patterson–7:30-9am. A martial art that truly strives for peace. Strengthen the spirit while exercising the body. Open to the entire human family. Harbison Recreation Center, 106 Hillpine Rd, Columbia. Info: 803 319-1438.

Healthy Carolina Farmers Market–10am-2pm.

Locally grown produce, fresh seafood, boiled peanuts, kettle corn, freshly baked bread, and other goods including natural soaps and lotions.

By Healthy Carolina, Parking Services, and the SC Dept of Ag. 1400 Greene St in front of the Russell House University Union, USC, Columbia.

Info: sc.edu/healthycarolina/farmersmarket.html or marti448@mailbox.sc.edu.

Sandhill Farmers Market–2pm-7pm. Located at the entrance to Clemson’s Sandhill Research & Ed Center, 900 Clemson Rd (across from Village at Sandhill), Columbia. Fresh local produce, meat, shrimp, eggs, milk, cheese and honey. Also plants, baked goods, homemade bread, boiled peanuts, yarn and woolen items. Live music and Master Gardeners available to answer questions.

Info www.clemson.edu/sandhill, 803-699-3190, 803-788-5700.

Free Beginner’s Intro Tai Chi Class w/Wes Adams–6pm. Tai Chi—a beautiful art people fall in love with, both for the benefits & for the joy. Fitness, health, relaxation, clarity, energy, confidence, peace & balance. Sign up online at ColumbiaTaiChiCenter.com/signup. 2910 Rosewood Dr. Info: Wes, 803-873-2100, or ColumbiaTaiChiCenter.com.

Nia w/Nancy Whitlock−6pm. Nia teaches you to consciously move in gentler ways to bring greater comfort and ease into your life. It revitalizes your mind and body as it uplifts your spirit and emotions.

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Moves are adaptable for all ages and fitness levels.

Still Hopes Wellness Center, West Columbia. Info: Nancy 803-779-8077, niacolumbia@gmail.com, nianow.com.

Unity Prayer and Meditation Hour−7-8pm in the Unity SEE Library. (skip 6/19) Unity of Columbia, 1801 LeGrand Rd, Columbia, 803-530-6199. UnityColumbiaSC.org.

er-only farmers’ market offering fresh, local food straight from South Carolina farmers. 711 Whaley St, Columbia. Info: stateplate@gmail.com.

Prenatal Yoga w/Rachel Hall, MD, RYT-200.

Time varies week to week, check website for time.

Open to all students. 1st class free. Expecting Well, 514-A Gervais, Columbia. 803-661-8452, ExpectingWell.com.

All Local Farmer’s Market–8am-12pm. Produc-

Story Time–10:30am.An exploration of children’s fables with Mr. Andy featuring interactive story telling, music and crafts. Pack a snack and make a morning of it. Free, KD’s Treehouse, 2911 Devine St, 803 748-0198, KDsTreehouse.com.

All Local Farmer’s Market–4-8pm. Produceronly farmers’ market offering fresh, local food straight from South Carolina farmers. 711 Whaley St, Columbia. Info: stateplate@gmail.com. Facebook-All local Farmers Market.

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, email colapublisher@ naturalawakeningsmag.com to request a media kit, or visit our website at HealthyLivingColumbia.com.

CHIROPRACTIC

Jin shin Jyutsu Self-Help Thursdays w/Margaret Self–(Call to Schedule). Have your 12 pulses assessed and receive a self-help protocol to use at home. $10 Columbia Margaret Self, Carolina Reiki Institute Inc., 803-551-1191.

Aikido w/Walter Patterson–7:30-9am. A martial art that truly strives for peace. Strengthen the spirit while exercising the body. Open to the entire human family. Harbison Recreation Center, 106 Hillpine Rd, Columbia. Info: 803 319-1438.

Lexington’s Local Farmer’s Market–10am2pm. At the Shoppes at Flight Deck, 109 Old Chapin Rd, local fresh farm produce, crafts and more. Info: Heidi Black (803) 957-3602, Facebook: Local-Farmers-Market-at-Flight-Deck.

Prenatal Yoga w/Rachel Hall, MD, RYT-200– 5:30pm. Open to all students. Prepare mind and body for labor and more. 1st class free. $10-14/ class packages. Expecting Well, 514-A Gervais, Columbia. 803-661-8452, ExpectingWell.com.

Prayer and Meditation Hour–7-8pm. In the SEE Library at Unity of Columbia, 1801 LeGrand Rd, 803-530-6199. UnityColumbiaSC.org.

Prenatal Yoga w/Rachel Hall, MD, RYT-200–4:30.

Prepare mind and body for labor, delivery & welcoming new life. 1st class free. $10-14/class packages. Expecting Well, 514-A Gervais, Columbia.

803-661-8452, ExpectingWell.com.

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Town of Lexington Farmers Market–9am-1pm.

First day for summer market, for local farmers and artisans, and public education on the benefits of eating local, fresh produce SC Certified, and supporting local artists and economy. Will operate every Sat thru Oct 27. Info: Jennifer 803-356-8238, farmersmarket@lexsc.com.

ECO-TOURISM RETREATS

SHELLY JONES, DC Chiropractic Wellness Center Inc.

ENOTA MOUNTAIN RETREAT

5209 Forest Dr, Ste C Columbia 803-771-9990 doc@drshellyjones.com DrShellyJones.com

1000 Hwy 180 Hiawassee, GA 30546 800-990-8869 706-896-9966 enota.com

I provide you and your family chiropractic care, health information and wellness resources to support your body’s natural ability to heal, feel better and enjoy living an active lifestyle! Call me to schedule your appointment or discuss how I can bring our onsite chiropractic care and healtheducation services to your business, school or athletic team.

Enota is a family-friendly retreat many say is their best cabin or campground experience ever. The natural springs, hiking trails and rushing waterfalls each hold the promise of adventure.

Cabin rentals, motel rooms, RV sites, tent sites, a spa and wellness center, an organic farm, more than 300 animals to delight the kids, trout fishing and the best home-cooked meals available anywhere. See ad, page 12.

COUNSELING INTEGRATIVE COUNSELING SERVICES

Sherri Jefferson, MA, LMT, NCC, LPC/I 803-414-5652 sfdcew@aol.com Sherri has 18 years of experience working within integrative health care. Each session is grounded in a safe and sacred space. This allows each person to embrace his or her own evolving life process.

Sherri utilizes a variety of tools, including, but not limited to, Heart Math, Emotional Freedom Technique, NLP, Body Talk, and advanced kinesiology. You are invited to call for a 50% discount on your first appointment. “Sherri helped me profoundly through my issues with grief and PTSD. She brought me back into the world of the living.” J.J., Columbia

FITNESS COLUMBIA TAI CHI CENTER

Wesley Adams, Owner/Instructor 2910 Rosewood Dr Columbia 803-873-2100 ColumbiaTaiChiCenter.com Wes Adams is dedicated to helping people live happier, healthier, more balanced lives by teaching traditional lineage Tai chi. In this day of “cardio Tai chi” workouts and one-day Tai chi instructor certification seminars, there is a strong need for authentic instruction in the complete art of Tai chi. Wes is a certified instructor under the American Center for Chinese Studies, NY. See ad, page 17.

INTEGRATED HEALING PHOENIX RISING

Katz Delaney-Leija, MSW, EFT CC, Psych-K Advanced, Energy Medicine 803-530-6199 kdelauney@sc.rr.com Discover an alternative to conventional therapy that produces lasting results, quickly. Katz Delaney-Leija incorporates her therapy skills, insight, intuition and spiritual guidance to hone in on the issues that block self-healing and success.

Specialties include health issues, stress, trauma, self-worth, sexual issues, service-related PTSD, and relationships. Call for a free assessment.

INTEGRATIVE & HOLISTIC MEDICINE EXPECT WELLNESS

514-A Gervais Street Columbia 803-661-8452 DrRachelhall.com expectwellness@sc.rr.com Find us on Facebook for great health tips Integrative/Holistic medicine consults for anyone wanting to approach their health more naturally. Dr. Hall is a board certified family physician and is preparing to take the American Board of Integrative and Holistic Medicine exam in November 2012.

Together we will focus on treating you as a whole person, finding the root of the problem, not just treating symptoms.

INTUITIVE READINGS THE SOURCE WITHIN YOU Rev. Julie E. Bradshaw 803-800-9211 TheSourceWithinYou.com

Julie Bradshaw offers intuitive life readings, akashic record readings, and angel and spirit guide readings. She is a Reiki master and certified hypnotherapist who is also certified in Psych-K and NLP. Using various methods of energy psychology, she assists clients in releasing issues as they are identified during a reading. Julie has been studying and working with energy healing for more than 20 years.

LIFE COACH – BUSINESS COACH SUZANNE RILEY WHYTE 803-760-6403 info@matrxcoaching.com MatrxCoaching.com

Matrx Coaching: Assisting you through the Matrx of your mind to achieve your business and life goals “one pebble at a time.” At Matrx Coaching, we understand the thought systems and beliefs we have that sustain our patterns of production.

These systems express themselves through goals, wants, desires and needs; and are so interconnected on a finite scale that they keep you in a spiral of non-achievement. To create change or embrace the change that is happening in your business and life, call now to set an appointment and learn more.

MASSAGE, HEALING ABOUT YOUR HEALTH INC. Lana Garner, LMT, SC #7318 120 Kaminer Way, Ste J Columbia 803-646-7916

Lana Garner is an experienced massage therapist/body worker who specializes in deep therapeutic work. If you are looking for relief, you will find it on Lana’s table. She uses a variety of techniques including cranio-sacral work and the Left Lemon system. By appointment only. Call or email lana@aboutyourhealthsc.com. See ad, page 9.

SPIRITUAL SPIRITUAL DISCUSSION GROUP

803-318-1887 Contact Steve ECK-SC.org Meetup.com/Columbia-spiritual-seekers Have you had a spiritual experience that you would like to share in a relaxed, non-dogmatic setting? Eckankar hosts open discussions (meetups), worship services and more at no charge. All are welcome. These are important forums for all who love God and who are serious about their spiritual growth.Topics include understanding past lives, dreams, coincidences, God’s creative life force and more. Call ahead: time and date may vary.

JUBILEE! Circle

Rev. Candace Chellew-Hodge 2730 Millwood Ave Columbia 803-491-5116 JubileeCircleUCC.org Looking for spiritual direction? Rev. Candace Chellew-Hodge is a certified spiritual director trained through the Omega Point program from the Episcopal Diocese in Atlanta. Spiritual seekers and people of all faiths are welcome. $75 per session. For a free consultation, please call. See ad, page 26.

THERMOGRAPHY ABOUT YOUR HEALTH INC. 120 Kaminer Way Pkwy, Ste J Columbia 803-798-8687

About Your Health Inc. is a small business whose main focus is health education and health-enhancing services.

These services include, but are not limited to, one-onone nutritional counseling, Reams pH testing, parasite programs, aquachi footbaths, far infrared sauna, weight-loss programs, and thermography as featured on the health segment on WIS TV. We offer a full line of hard-to-find natural, organic, whole food nutritional supplements, and some specialty items that include raw foods and natural household items. See ad, page 9.

VITAMINS AND SUPPLEMENTS GARNER’S NATURAL LIFE 4840 Forest Dr, Ste 15a Columbia Trenholm Plaza 803-454-7700 garnersnaturallife.com

At Garner’s Natural Life we offer the purest, most innovative high-quality natural products.

With more than 130 collective years of wellness experience, our expert staff provides the most unsurpassed customer service in our industry.

We are proud to say that our knowledge allows us to encourage choices that will positively impact the heath and future of our community and environment. See ad, back page.

Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson HealthyLivingColumbia.com

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