Columbia Edition 1117

E E FR

HEALTHY

LIVING

HEALTHY

PLANET

Sharable

Live

Diabetes-Free

Thanksgiving

Ways to Share What Really Matters

Prevent & Reverse It

Naturally

Not Your Grandma’s

Stuffing

Inspire Curiosity

Good Reads for Kids

November 2017 | Columbia Edition | MidlandsHealthyLiving.com

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natural awakenings

November 2017

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

15 FOREST ACRES WELL CARE:

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Open and Ready to Change Your Life

by Odell Williams

16 NOT YOUR GRANDMA’S STUFFING

Healthy Twists on Old Favorites

by Judith Fertig

22 PALMS TO PALMETTOS: A One-of-a-Kind Experience …

advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings please contact us at 803-233-3693 or email ColaPublisher@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com. Deadline for ads: the 12th 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 MidlandsHealthyLiving.com 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 239530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

Connect with us Naturally

by Odell Williams

23 PREVENTING, REVERSING AND MANAGING DIABETES NATURALLY

by Linda Sechrist

26 TRY SOME STRETCHES

Four Ways to Flex Our Muscles

by Marlaina Donato

28 BOOKS THAT

KIDS WILL LOVE

Advice for Parents from Award-Winners

by Randy Kambic

35 SHARABLE

THANKSGIVING

Ways to Focus on What Really Matters

by Marlaina Donato

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8 communitynews 13 healthbriefs 16 consciouseating

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17 ecotip 20 globalbriefs

26 fitbody 28 healthykids

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30 healingways

32 wisewords 38 calendar 39 classifieds 40 directory

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natural awakenings

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letterfrompublisher Finding Sense in Gratitude …

“G contact us Owner/Publisher Annette Carter Briggs Writer Odell Williams Senior Editor Sara Gurgen Design & Production Kristina Parella Billy Briggs Stephen Gray-Blancett Advertising Sales Annette Carter Briggs Sustainability/ Development Consultant Aloysius Anderson To contact Natural Awakenings Columbia Edition: PO Box # 2812 Columbia, SC 29202 Phone: 803-233-3693 Cell: 803-309-2101 Fax: 877-412-4905

ratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates vision for tomorrow.” These are the words of Melody Beattie, American author of 18 books published in numerous languages. Wow, what a powerful statement! And just the springboard I needed to jumpstart my inspirational thoughts about one of November’s most important national observances: gratitude.

November is recognized as National Gratitude Month. And what is gratitude?

Well, the dictionary defines it as “the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.” Sounds great, huh? However, when the raft of intellectual philosophy collides with the iceberg of life-altering reality … the raft is in serious trouble.

So, Beattie’s poignant words of wisdom serve as the ideal anchor of hope to keep us from going adrift and potentially capsizing into a sea of hopelessness and despair—moving us further and further away from the shores of gratitude. I am a positive person by nature. However, life hurts at times, and people do hit back— hard! In addition, life’s challenges and difficulties (many unforeseen, and even tragic) can often leave us in search of answers to soul-searching questions. All true.

But if we can find perspective from yesterday’s positive experiences, expectancy from today’s potential, and hopeful optimism from tomorrow’s possibilities, then gratitude will find us just in time for Thanksgiving. Make sense?

With sensible gratitude, Annette Briggs, Publisher

Email: ColaPublisher@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com © 2017 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved.

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

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

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

Editorial Correction from the Publisher:

It is always our goal to provide accurate information on behalf of our advertisers and readers; however, there are times when we regrettably miss the mark. In last month’s October edition, in the article featured on page 15, titled “Columbia Travel Logistics: Where Health Care Meets Affordability, Quality and Excellence,” the word “Columbia” was incorrectly used instead of “Colombia.” We regret any confusion or inconvenience caused due to this unfortunate error. Please call Colombia Travel Logistics at 888-599-3248, ext. 701, for more information about the great services it provides.

MidlandsHealthyLiving.com

by Ortho-TainÂŽ

9 Out of 10 Children Exhibit Sleep Disordered Breathing Symptoms Snoring Nightmares Bed Wetting Difficulty in School ADD / ADHD Chronic Allergies Restless Sleep Dark Circles Under Eyes Mouth Breathing

Open-Bite

Daytime Drowsiness Sleep Issues Overbite

Aggressive Behavior Swollen Adenoids / Tonsils

Overjet & Thumb Sucking

Delayed Growth Crowded Teeth Overbite / Overjet

Healthy Start Addresses Sleep Disordered Breathing and Straightens Teeth Without Braces Provided by General Dentists

Joanna S. Dover, DMD 3731 Forest Drive Columbia, SC 29204 803.782.5492 columbiadentistry.com natural awakenings

November 2017

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communitynews ICRC Hosts

Holiday Lights on the River

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t’s the most wonderful time of the year!

The Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission (ICRC) will host (in partnership with Lexington Medical Center) its popular Holiday Lights on the River, starting on Wednesday, November 22, through Sunday, December 31, at Saluda Shoals Park. The popular Midlands recreation park will come alive in a brilliant blaze of more than a million sparkling lights. Drivers can take a journey through colorful lights and more than 400 animated light displays of all shapes and sizes. Other activities include craft-making, marshmallow roasting and a laser light show. Attendees can also ride the Hayride shuttle to the Wetland Walking Trail or ride the Saluda Shoals train. Nominal fees ($1 to $10) may apply for activities. As a special treat, Santa will make his way from the North Pole for a VIP visit and photo-taking opportunities from December 8 through 23. Fun-filled memories are in store for the entire family to share for years to come!

Cost: $15 per car; $25 per 15-passenger van; $40 per bus. Time: 6 to 10 p.m.

Location: Saluda Shoals Park, 5605 Bush River Rd., Columbia (Note: Must enter at 6071 St. Andrews Rd.—between Aldi grocery store and Wendy’s). For more information, call 803-772-1228 or visit icrc.net. See ad, page 10.

Veterans Day 2017

at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden

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n Saturday, November 11, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Riverbanks Zoo and Garden will proudly recognize Veterans Day and the honorable service of both active and retired military personnel by offering free park admission. Local patriots are welcome and encouraged to come and take part in a “wild” day of fun and enjoyment.

Cost: Free for active duty and retired military personnel with a military ID. Location: Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, 500 Wildlife Pkwy., Columbia. For more information, call 803-779-8717 or visit Riverbanks.org.

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The City of Columbia Hosts

Free Gardening Workshop

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he Columbia Parks and Recreation Department has partnered with the Clemson Cooperative Extension in hosting a gardening workshop designed to give participants the tools needed to start and maintain a healthy garden on Saturday, November 18. Starting at 10 a.m., the informative hands-on session, titled Starting Seeds, will educate participants on the four critical elements of starting seeds (water, temperature, soil and light) and why one should start the seed-growth process indoors. The workshop is free and open to both beginners and experienced gardeners.

Location: Earlewood Park Community Center, 1113 Parkside Dr., Columbia.

For more information, call the Parks and Recreation Department at 803545-3100 or visit ColumbiaSC.gov/ parks-recreation/programs-activities/ community-gardens.

Integrated Health Clinic for Trauma Hosts Relief Fundraiser Day

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he Integrated Health Clinic for Trauma is hosting a fundraising day on Monday, November 27. Community residents are cordially invited to come and experience the clinic’s specialized health and treatment services while investing in the clinic’s ability and readiness to respond to those in need when trauma strikes. Columbia Resilience offers a monthly clinic that provides hands-on attention to calm the hyper-alert state of the body, as well as group training in self-care tools. Available services include CranioSacral Therapy, clothed massage, energy healing, acupressure for emotions, aromatherapy, and facilitated labyrinth and walking meditation.

A light meal will also be served. Preregistration is required and appointments can be scheduled from 3:30 to 6 p.m.

The experience of a traumatic event, whether caused by a natural disaster, catastrophic diagnosis, or resulting from a violent or life-changing accident, raises feelings of shock, powerlessness, and often frequent anxiety. Learning how to function within a “new normal” requires community support and tools for living that navigate a complex reorganization and restoration of balance encompassing the mind, body and spirit.

Cost: $20, suggested donation. Location: Integrated Health Clinic for Trauma (in St. Mark’s Methodist Church), 3200 Lyles St., Columbia. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Pam Lorentz at 803-749-1576 or visit ColumbiaResilience.com (link for the clinic is under the Community Health Working Group tab). See ad, page 42.

KMB Hosts 2017 Gala

for a Greener Midlands

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eep the Midlands Beautiful (KMB) will host its sixth annual Gala for a Greener Midlands on Friday, December 1. The Midlands Green Awards were created to recognize individuals and businesses for their exceptional work in making the Midlands a cleaner, greener, more beautiful community. KMB recognizes individuals, groups and businesses for the wonderful example set for all that reside in, or visit, the Midlands.

The evening will be highlighted by a delicious dinner featuring locally sourced foods and the presentation of the Midlands Green Awards. The night’s festivities will also include great music and dancing. Black tie is optional. Established in 1989 to serve Richland and Lexington counties, the mission of KMB is to inspire and educate Midlands residents about the importance of investing in the community through litter prevention, recycling and beautification.

Cost: Call for details. Location: Holiday Inn & Suites, 110 McSwain Dr., W. Columbia. To sponsor a table or for ticket purchasing, call 803-733-1139, or visit KeepTheMidlandsBeautiful.org or Eventbrite.com. natural awakenings

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communitynews Palmetto Health Foundation Hosts Festival of Trees Event

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he Palmetto Health Foundation will host its 28th annual Festival of Trees event, benefiting the Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital, from November 17 to 19 (Friday to Sunday) at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, in downtown Columbia. The festival will feature decorated trees, wreaths, stockings and gifts that will be up for bid during a weekend-long silent auction—all for a worthy cause.

The Festival of Trees auction preview will be held on Friday, November 17.

Fun, family-friendly entertainment and activities are in store over the weekend to include great food, decorative theme displays, live local choirs, dance groups, a Santa appearance, and local area mascots. Since 1988, the holidays have been a little brighter in Columbia because of Festival of Trees. Last year’s event raised more than $300,000 for Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital through the Festival of Trees auction.

Cost/times: Call or visit website for additional details. Location: Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, 1101 Lincoln St., Columbia. For more information, call 803-434-7275 or visit PalmettoHealthFoundation.org.

ICRC Hosts

Holiday Market at Crooked Creek Park

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n Saturday, November 18, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission will host its Holiday Market event at Crooked Creek Park, located at 1098 Old Lexington Highway, in Chapin. Local area artists, crafters and business owners are invited to participate as event vendors.

Shoppers can purchase one-of-a-kind items, including paintings, handmade jewelry, home decor pieces and much more. Those interested in selling items must complete and submit an event application form. Admission is free to the public.

For more information, call 803-345-6181 or visit icrc.net.

Woofstock 2017 at Jake’s!

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n Sunday, November 5, from 3 to 7 p.m., pet lovers and music aficionados are invited to bring out the furry, four-legged family members to the third annual Woofstock Music Festival, presented in partnership by the Humane Society of South Carolina and Jake’s Bar & Grill. Event participants are in for a great afternoon and evening of bands, barks and tasty brews—all taking place on Jake’s beautiful outdoor patio, located in the heart of Five Points. The event is designed to raise much-needed funds for and to increase the awareness of the mission and services that the Humane Society provides to the local community. VIP tickets are available and include event entry, twodrink tickets, and an event T-shirt.

Cost: $10, general admission; $45, VIP admission. Location: Jake’s Bar & Grill, 2112 Devine St., Columbia. For more information, including how to become an event sponsor, call 803-783-1267 or email ESmith@HumaneSC.org. Also visit HumaneSC.org/woofstock.

CHANGE A LIFE

Donate to Harmony School Today!

803-787-1899 HarmonySchoolSC.com 10

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10/19/2017 2:43:57 PM

EdVenture Hosts Military Appreciation Day

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n Saturday, November 11, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., EdVenture Children’s Museum will host Military Appreciation Day (Veterans Day) to honor the contributions and sacrifices that military members and their families make in serving and protecting our country (to include children). Guests that present a valid military ID will be allowed to enter free of charge. Presented by Gregory Electric Company Inc, the Mullikin Law Firm, and Shealy Electrical Wholesalers, the museum will be decorated in flags in honor of the occasion.

Location: EdVenture Children’s Museum, 211 Gervais St., Columbia. For more information, call 803-779-3100 or visit EdVenture.org.

EEASC Hosts

November Midlands Meetup

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t’s time to meet up! On Tuesday, November 14, from 8 to 9 a.m., the Environmental Education Association of South Carolina (EEASC) is hosting a green networking “meetup” session for environmental educators at the Sonoco Recycling facility, located at 1132 Idlewilde Boulevard, in Columbia. Attendees are encouraged to come prepared to share upcoming event information (to include flyers) and sustainable program updates with the gathered group in this intentionally informal setting. Those that desire to send any information to be disseminated on the day of the event in advance, may do so by emailing items to CooperC@rcgov.us. Attendees are asked to bring their own coffee.

Cost: Call for details. To register or for more information, contact Jane Hiller at 803-779-0608 or Jane.Hiller@Sonoco. com, or visit eeasc.org/event-2690864. natural awakenings

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communitynews Meet and Greet and Book Signing with Local Author Ralph E. Jarrells

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est Columbia native author Ralph E. Jarrells will host a meet and greet and book signing at Palms to Palmettos on Thursday, November 30, from 6 to 8 p.m. Jarrells will highlight his newly released novel, Ill Gotten Gain. States Jarrells: “Ill Gotten Gain answers the question: What happened to the 30 pieces of silver given Judas for betraying Christ? It is a historically based, religiously oriented mystery that presents a plausible, if not believable, account of the movement of the suitable cursed coins from Jerusalem c:33 AD/CE to Charleston, South Carolina, current day in which everyone who has the coins dies.

“The story is a mystery with horrific touches because it chronicles the deaths of the coin holders—hanged, strangled, drowned in blood, choked of food, drowned while being eaten by sharks, and suffocated in a fire,” adds Jarrells.

“The antique dealer dreams these deaths as through the eyes of the person dying.

It isn’t a horror story, but it does occasionally knock on the door of the macabre.

It isn’t a comedy, but there are some really funny sections. It isn’t a foray into the world of voodoo, but it does dip its toe in the world of ‘roots’ and root doctors.”

Cost: Free to enter. Space limited; arrive early. Location: Palms to Palmettos, 3357 Leaphart Rd., W. Columbia. For more information, call 803-553-7010.

Silence is a source of great strength. ~Lao Tzu

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Preorder Christmas Trees from Gardener’s Outpost NOW!

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he holiday season is approaching, and soon enough, Midlands area residents will be shopping for Christmas trees. Gardner’s Outpost, a popular local and sustainable garden center conveniently located just off Devine Street, is now taking Christmas tree preorders for its beautiful, high-quality line of Fraser fir Christmas trees for this season produced in scenic Ennice, North Carolina. The first batch will arrive on Black Friday weekend.

The “budget-friendly” classic trees are cut on the same day that they are to be shipped to ensure quality and freshness—ready and available to take home within eight hours of being cut. Coming in various sizes, the trees can be preordered and purchased with or without a stand. Gardener’s Outpost has also prepared a special water-based natural solution designed to promote the health of each tree. Due to their popularity, shoppers are encouraged to preorder. A beautiful line of poinsettias is arriving soon as well.

Cost: Varies; call for details. Location: Gardener’s Outpost, 709 Woodrow St., Columbia. Times: Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday by appointment only. For more information or to preorder, call 803-252-0041 or visit GardenersOutpost.com. See ad, page 21.

Onions Healthy for Heart and Kidneys

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cientists from the Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences and Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, both in Tehran, Iran, investigated the impact on leading diseases of regularly eating onion and garlic (both belonging to the genus Allium).

Using data from more than 12,000 people for an average of six years, researchers assessed their onion and garlic consumption using a food frequency questionnaire and compared those measurements with blood pressure and incidences of both cardiovascular and chronic kidney disease.

The scientists discovered the subjects that ate more onion and garlic regularly had risk reductions of 64 percent in cardiovascular disease, 32 percent in chronic kidney disease and 25 percent in hypertension compared to those that ate less of them.

Wolfilser/Shutterstock.com

Acupuncture and Herbs Ease Delirium in Patients

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cientists from the Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, in Japan, examined the impact of a combination of acupuncture and traditional herbal medicine on the rate of delirium in cardiovascular patients admitted into an intensive care unit. Of the 59 patients studied, 29 were treated with conventional care and 30 were given the same care, plus herbal medicine three times a day and acupuncture once a day.

In the treatment group, incidental rates of delirium were 6.6 percent, significantly lower than the 37.9 percent rate found in the control group. This group also required fewer sedative drugs traditionally used to combat aggressive behavior in delirious patients.

Cranberry Prebiotic Promotes Gut Health

Maks Narodenko /Shutterstock.com

ILYA AKINSHIN/Shutterstock.com

healthbriefs

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esearch from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, has found that the cell walls of cranberries contain xyloglucan, a complex sugar that feeds the beneficial, naturally occurring bifidobacteria, enhancing the body’s microbiome.

“A lot of plant cell walls are indigestible, just like we can’t digest the special sugars found in xyloglucans,” explains nutritional microbiologist and researcher David Sela, Ph.D. “But when we eat cranberries, the xyloglucans enter our intestines, where beneficial bacteria can break them down into useful molecules and compounds.”

Sela emphasizes the importance of prebiotics. “With probiotics, we are taking extra doses of beneficial bacteria that may or may not help our gut health,” he says. “But with prebiotics, we already know that we have the beneficial guys in our guts, so let’s feed them with more nutrients and things that they like.”

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businessspotlight

floors; and the halogen halotherapy salt system infuses clean, pharmaceutical-grade salt into the room.

Salt particles are ground finer so the salt does not irritate the respiratory tract, allowing for a more pleasurable and relaxing session. FAWC’s halogenic breathing treatments are a holistic way to clear the respiratory system and boost the immune system—effective in treating not only the previously mentioned health conditions but also many other issues, like snoring, depression, sleep apnea, cold and flu, eczema and psoriasis, as well as overall wellness.

“We offer very affordable salt spa package pricing, with flexible hours suitable for everyone. We are open later, so you are able to bring your children after school or come after work,” adds Misty.

Forest Acres Well Care: Open and Ready to Change Your Life

by Odell Williams

H

ealth and wellness services in the Midlands have just experienced a tremendous upgrade in quality and care with the recent and much-anticipated opening of Forest Acres Well Care (FAWC), located at 5101 Forest Drive, in the heart of Forest Acres. Family-owned and operated by Pat Sumerell and Misty Clare-Sumerell, the newly renovated, beautiful facility features a wide range of services and amenities, including salt therapy (halotherapy) in a spacious and relaxing salt room; yoga classes, led by a certified instructor; chiropractic care; therapeutic massage; and pain-management care.

Other wellness services include pulse electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy; detox services, such as aqua chi foot detox; reiki sessions; and much more. According to Misty, the heartbeat and mission of Forest Acres Well Care is crystal clear: “We are absolutely committed to the wellness of our clients—bringing ultimate relaxation, healing, rejuvenation and pain relief to those in need of solutions that actually work. Our qualified professional staff will also educate and empower clients

to live healthier and happier lives by implementing personalized wellness solutions tailored to the uniqueness of each individual, such as results-oriented weight-loss strategies.

Customer satisfaction is the name of the game.” The Sumerells’ professional team is laser focused on providing the best possible healthcare solutions with the family budget in mind.

Halotherapy has proven to be a very effective, natural and safe treatment option used by countless individuals that suffer from breathing disorders. Studies conducted reveal it to be a viable option for those suffering from such respiratory problems as allergies, asthma, bronchitis, hay fever, COPD, emphysema and more.

FAWC’s halogen halotherapy salt system utilizes the most advanced technology available—incorporating sophisticated sensors that maintain and monitor the appropriate salt concentration in the room. This feature is designed to ensure that optimal results are consistently achieved. The ambient salt room has Himalayan sea salt on the wall and

Clare Ellinger, Violette Clare, Misty Clare-Sumerell

FAWC also specializes in comprehensive chiropractic care, including such areas as sports, pediatric, pain (acute and chronic), general wellness and extreme adjustments. Need some great holiday stocking stuffers to give the gift of better health to that special someone in your life? Give him or her a great FAWC gift certificate, available for purchase now.

Forest Acres Well Care is open and ready to serve you and your family.

Stop by today and start (or restart) your journey toward optimal health; wellness; and healing of mind, body, soul and spirit!

For more information or to schedule an appointment or free consultation, call 803-318-2811 or visit ForestAcresWellCare.com. Also visit Facebook/ forestacreswellcare. See ad, page 43.

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Not Your Grandma’s Stuffing Healthy Twists on Old Favorites Goodbye Junk.

Hello Relief.

Trusted Junk Removal Since 1989 1-800-468-5865 | 1800gotjunk.com

by Judith Fertig

T

hanksgiving side dishes continue to evolve, even though traditional entrées still hold pride of place.

New, lighter alternatives to time-honored stuffing maximize flavorful dried fruits, herbs and nuts. Healthy options may use gluten-free bread or black rice, cauliflower, chestnuts or pecans for flavor, bulk and color. A stuffing can also fill a halved acorn squash or cored apple.

According to renowned health authority Dr. Joseph Mercola, pecans contain more than 19 vitamins and minerals, including anti-inflammatory magnesium, heart-healthy oleic acid, phenolic antioxidants and immune-boosting manganese. Erica Kannall, a registered dietitian in Spokane, Washington, and a certified health and fitness specialist with the American College of Sports Medicine, likes dried fruits because they contribute antioxidants and fiber.

Intriguing Options

Celebrity chef Rocco DiSpirito, of New York City, salutes his Italian heritage

with chestnuts and embraces healthy living with millet and mushrooms in his special stuffing. His new book Rocco’s Healthy + Delicious includes healthy takes on Thanksgiving dishes such as a sugar-free cranberry sauce.

Sonnet Lauberth, a certified holistic health coach, blogger and cookbook author in Seattle, created a healthy stuffing she loves. “My GrainFree Sage and Pecan Dressing is one of my favorite dishes to bring to gatherings because it works with a variety of diets,” she says. “It’s gluten-, dairy- and grain-free, paleo and vegan. The pecans can be omitted for a nut-free version.”

Riced cauliflower is the base, which is available prepackaged at some groceries, but can be made at home simply by chopping the florets into rice-kernelsize pieces. “Cauliflower is the perfect base for this recipe, as it adds a nice texture in place of bread and provides extra fiber,” she says.

Laurie Gauguin, a personal chef in the San Francisco Bay area, specializes

Natural Awakenings recommends using organic, non-GMO (genetically modified) and non-bromated ingredients whenever possible.

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Lisa F. Young/Shutterstock.com

consciouseating

The black rice looks striking against the golden squash.”

A stuffing that everyone can eat is ideal for a holiday gathering, either to serve or bring. Lauberth observes, “While not always possible, it’s nice if the host can accommodate various dietary concerns and preferences. Bring your own hearty side dish or two so that you have enough to make a meal for yourself if needed.”

Judith Fertig writes cookbooks and foodie fiction from Overland Park, KS (JudithFertig.com).

Healthy Holiday Stuffing Recipes Yields: 8 servings 1 Tbsp grapeseed oil ¼ cup millet 1 lb crimini mushrooms, sliced 1 large onion, diced 3 stalks celery, diced 1 medium carrot, diced 4 chestnuts, chopped 1 Tbsp fresh sage, chopped 1½ Tbsp poultry seasoning 3 scoops Rocco’s Protein Powder Plus (check Amazon.com) 2 egg whites 1¾ cups low sodium chicken or vegetable stock Kosher or sea salt and freshly ground pepper Place grapeseed oil in a 12-inch cast iron pan; place the pan in the oven and preheat oven to 425˚ F. Cook a quarter-cup millet in a small saucepan on the stovetop according to package instructions.

When millet is cooked through, transfer it to a large mixing bowl.

Heat a large, safe, nonstick sauté pan over high heat and use it to sauté the mushrooms until tender and golden, approximately seven to 10 minutes.

Transfer mushrooms to the same mixing bowl as the millet.

photo by Stephen Blancett

Rocco DiSpirito’s Stuffing

Heat a large, safe, nonstick pan over medium heat and use it to sweat the onions, celery and carrots until tender and translucent, about 10 minutes.

Transfer the vegetable mix to the same mixing bowl as the millet and mushrooms.

Add the chestnuts, sage, poultry seasoning, protein powder, egg whites and chicken stock to the large mixing bowl, and then use a rubber spatula to mix well, so that no lumps are visible.

Carefully remove the cast iron pan from the oven, and then pour stuffing batter into it. Popping occurs as the outside batter develops a crust.

Return the cast iron pan to the oven and bake for 13 minutes.

Remove from oven and turn the result out onto a serving dish.

Recipe courtesy of Rocco DiSpirito, Rocco’s Healthy + Delicious.

ecotip Oil Spoil How to Properly Discard Cooking Oil Holiday meal traditions that kick off with a Thanksgiving turkey and continue through festive meals for New Year’s can produce lots of cooking oil and grease waste. Following proper disposal procedures protects both the environment and home plumbing.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency reports that vegetable oils and animal fats share common physical properties and create similar environmental effects as petroleum spills, including coating and suffocating animals and plants; polluting food supplies and habitats; fouling shorelines; and clogging water treatment plants.

Cooking oil and kitchen grease is the number one cause of stopped-up sewer pipes, according to Earth 911.

Grease sticks to the lining of plumbing pipes in small particles, which catch onto each other and accumulate until the growing mass can block and backup sewage lines, leading to a nasty mess and sometimes costly repairs.

This potential problem can be avoided simply and easily. n For small amounts of kitchen grease such as lard, shortening or tallow that inevitably go down the drain, flush with cold water so that it solidifies, making it less likely to stick to pipes. n Freeze small amounts of used cooking fats, oils and grease in a container like a used coffee can with a tight-sealing lid, then place it in the trash. n Larger and unfrozen quantities of used cooking oil may be taken to an area recycling center for proper disposal year-round. No special container is required and the liquid is emptied from the consumer’s container onsite. Don’t combine the contents with anything else, so it can be repurposed by vendors that collect it from the centers.

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in gluten-free dishes that she prepares in clients’ homes. “Anything that will hold its shape and not crumble too much can work as a stuffing base,” she says. “Gluten-free, somewhat sticky grains, like short grain brown rice, Chinese black rice, millet or soft-cooked quinoa work well.”

“Choose a mixture that contrasts with the texture and color of the food you’re stuffing,” advises Gauguin. “I created a stuffing that has crunchy pecans, tender black rice and chewy, dried cranberries to contrast with the creaminess of the cored squash entrée.

Brush the interior, plus the cut sides of the squashes with the 4 teaspoons oil, then sprinkle with ½ teaspoon sea salt.

Roast for 40 to 50 minutes on the upper middle rack of the oven until tender when pierced with a fork.

While the squash is roasting, place a medium, heavy saucepan over medium heat and pour in one tablespoon of olive oil.

Add the onion and sauté for two to three minutes, until the onion begins to soften.

Roasted Acorn Squash Stuffed With Black Rice, Pecans, Dried Cranberries and Tempeh Yields: 8 servings Squash: 4 acorn squashes (1½ lb each) 4 tsp olive oil ½ tsp sea salt Rice: 1 Tbsp olive oil ¾ cup finely diced onion 1 cup Chinese black rice (also called Forbidden Black Rice) ½ tsp sea salt ¼ tsp ground cinnamon ¼ tsp ground coriander 2 cups water 4 oz tempeh, crumbled Roasted Pecans and Cranberries: 1 cup coarsely chopped pecans 1 tsp minced ginger root 4 tsp olive oil 1 tsp ground coriander ¼ tsp ground nutmeg ¼ tsp sea salt 10 large sage leaves, chopped 1 cup dried cranberries 2 Tbsp maple syrup

Stir in the rice, salt, cinnamon and coriander. Cook and stir for 30 seconds.

Pour in the water and bring to a boil, then cover and simmer over very low heat for 30 to 60 minutes, until rice is tender.

Scatter crumbled tempeh over the cooked rice.

Cover the pan, then take it off the stove and let it rest for 10 minutes.

While the rice is cooking, combine pecans, ginger, four teaspoons olive oil, one teaspoon coriander, nutmeg and ¼ teaspoon salt.

Stir in the sage, dried cranberries and maple syrup. Roast for another 10 minutes, then remove from the oven.

Arrange squash halves, cut side up, on a serving platter. Combine rice with the pecan mixture and divide among the squash halves, pressing gently so the stuffing stays put.

Preheat oven to 375° F. Cut squashes in half lengthwise, then scoop out the seeds.

Recipe courtesy of Laurie Gauguin, LaurieGauguin.com.

Columbia Edition

2 oz dried figs, finely chopped 1 Tbsp roasted, shelled hazelnuts, chopped 1 tsp orange zest ¼ tsp allspice 4 Granny Smith apples, cored ½ cup maple syrup 1 Tbsp coconut oil 2 Tbsp fresh orange juice Preheat oven to 350° F. Combine the chopped figs, hazelnuts, orange zest and allspice in a bowl.

Place the apples in a baking dish and loosely press the fig mixture into the cavities of the apples.

Combine the maple syrup, coconut oil and orange juice and drizzle it over the apples.

Bake the apples for 25 minutes or until tender.

Set cooked apples aside for 10 minutes to let the sauce thicken slightly, and then serve warm or at room temperature.

Adapted from a recipe in Family Circle Australia.

Pour this mixture into an eight-by-eightinch baking pan; roast at 375° F for 15 minutes on the bottom middle oven rack, stirring halfway through.

If made one day ahead, cover and reheat in a 350˚ F oven until heated through.

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Yields: 4 servings

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photo by Stephen Blancett

photo by Stephen Blancett

Arrange squash halves on a baking sheet, cut side down.

Stuffed Apples with Fig and Hazelnuts

Add additional salt and pepper if desired.

Toss with parsley and serve hot.

Recipe courtesy of Sonnet Lauberth, InSonnetsKitchen. com/60-healthy-gluten-free-thanksgiving-recipes.

Bonus Recipe Sugar-Free Cranberry Sauce Yields: 4 Servings

Grain-Free Sage and Pecan Stuffing 1 cup pecans 1 Tbsp coconut oil 1 medium yellow onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 3 stalks celery, diced 4 cups raw cauliflower rice (prepackaged or via a grater or food processor shredding blade) 1 Tbsp fresh sage, chopped 2 tsp fresh thyme, chopped ½ tsp kosher or sea salt ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper ¼ cup chopped fresh Italian parsley

½ lb cranberries 2 Tbsp grated orange zest ¼ cup orange juice 8 packets Monk Fruit in the Raw sweetener Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper In a small saucepot, combine the cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, monk fruit, salt and pepper.

Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture becomes thick and dry, about 40 minutes.

Recipe courtesy of Rocco DiSpirito, Rocco’s Healthy + Delicious.

Spread pecans on a baking sheet and place in the oven until lightly toasted, about five minutes. Monitor to ensure the nuts don’t burn.

Remove pecans from the oven and place in a food processor. Coarsely chop and set aside.

Heat coconut oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions, garlic and celery and cook until onions are translucent, about five minutes.

photo by Stephen Blancett

Preheat oven to 250˚ F.

Add the pecans, cauliflower rice, sage, thyme, salt and pepper and cook for seven to 10 minutes, until the rice is tender. natural awakenings

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

Wine Worry Glyphosate Toxin Turns Up in Wines

Monsanto’s toxic Roundup herbicide glyphosate has been found in all 10 California vintages tested, including organic wines. While glyphosate isn’t sprayed directly onto grapes because it would kill the vines, it’s often used to spray the ground in the vineyard to be absorbed via the roots.

Sometimes, glyphosate drifts from conventional vineyards into nearby organic and biodynamic vineyards. Other times, the toxin remains in the soil after a conventional farm has been converted to organic; the chemical may persist onsite for more than 20 years.

Glyphosate is patented as an antibiotic. Designed to kill bacteria, it harms both soils and human health, and has been cited as a human carcinogen by the World Health Organization.

For glyphosate-related consumer information, search Actions at MomsAcrossAmerica.com.

Faster Rescues

Artificial Intelligence Helps Locate People and Wildlife hxdbzxy/Shutterstock.com

Artificial intelligence (AI) is helping doctors and scientists worldwide do their jobs better. In wildlife preservation, many researchers want to know how many animals there are and where they live, but Tanya Berger-Wolf, a professor of computer science at the University of Illinois at Chicago, states, “Scientists do not have the capacity to do this, and there are not enough GPS collars or satellite tracks in the world.”

At AI-driven Wildbook.org, photos are uploaded by experts and the public and analyzed for species, age and even gender. One massive Kenyan study in 2015 prompted officials to alter their lion management program.

Also, the locations of stranded victims of floods, earthquakes or other disasters can be determined via computer programmers writing basic algorithms that examine extensive footage. In flooded areas, AI technology can also find debris that harbors trapped people. AI techniques can even monitor social media sites to find out more about missing people and disasters.

oliveromg/Shutterstock.com

Get Outside

Black Friday Alternative This year, all REI outdoor outfitter stores will close on Black Friday and join hundreds of national and local organizations and like-minded brands to ask, “Will You Go Out with Us?” For the third year, the REI #OptOutside initiative will mobilize Americans to firmly establish a new tradition of choosing trails over sales on Black Friday, including camping under the stars instead of camping out at malls.

For helpful ideas, visit rei.com/opt-outside.

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Marijus Auruskevicius/Shutterstock.com

globalbriefs

Pedestrian Power Smart Street Lights Powered

by Footsteps Conventional street lights collectively emit more than 100 million tons of carbon dioxide annually.

The city of Las Vegas, a leader in municipal sustainability, has contracted with EnGoPlanet, a New York City clean tech startup, to install the world’s first Smart Street Lights powered by pedestrians’ footsteps via kinetic energy pads and solar energy. When someone steps on a kinetic tile, energy is created and goes directly to a battery.

Petar Mirovic, CEO of EnGoPlanet, says, “Clean and free energy is all around us. Urban cities have to build the smart infrastructures of tomorrow that will be able to harvest all of that energy. This project is a small but important step in that direction.”

Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn G. Goodman says, “Through our LEED-certified buildings, solar projects, water reclamation, alternative-fueled vehicles and sustainable streetlights, Las Vegas continues to lead the way.”

The company also cites Smart Street Light projects in Chicago, Detroit, Auburn Hills (Michigan), Asbury Park (New Jersey) and at stadiums such as the Mercedes-Benz Superdome, in New Orleans.

View an illustrative video at Tinyurl. com/SmartStreetLights.

celebrationspotlight

Sustainable Midlands: Celebrating with a Purpose for the Holidays

by Odell Williams

O

n Monday, December 4, from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m., Sustainable Midlands cordially invites everyone out to its Sustainable Holiday Celebration taking place at beautiful and historic 701 Whaley Street, in Columbia. In commemoration of its 10-year anniversary, the popular event will feature more than 60 local artists and craft-makers, offering amazing and sustainable hand-crafted pieces made from upcycled, recycled and natural materials. The event will also be highlighted by great local food, wine and many other festive activities. Generated proceeds will help support resource programs that educate, advocate and celebrate solutions in the community that balance the needs of the environment and the economy.

Sustainable Midlands is a grass-roots, nonprofit organization focused on building community networks and sustainable solutions through individuals dedicated to fostering a strong community, a healthy environment, and a stronger local economy. The organization’s mission is to encourage responsible growth, ensure access to local food, and establish a healthy environment for all Midlands communities through innovative programs that educate, advocate and celebrate balanced solutions for our community.

In addition, the Midlands organization actively participates in numerous vital community projects and organized efforts, including neighborhood design principles of new urbanism, transportation planning, local food production, and alternative and efficient energy solutions that protect natural resources and the environment. Key initiatives include the Rocky Branch Watershed Alliance, local food, Midlands Green Congregational Initiative, clean water, sustainable schools, community seminars, sustainable leaders, and clean air partnerships.

Without question, the life-impacting body of work that Sustainable Midlands is engaged in is vital to our local community—something everyone can celebrate on December 4!

Cost: $5. For more information, call 803-470-4302, email Info@SustainableMidlands.org or visit SustainableMidlands.org. See ad, page 19.

Happy Thanksgiving

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communityspotlight

Palms to Palmettos:

A One-of-a-Kind Experience …

by Odell Williams

T

“Our store has flourhere is ished into a beautifully something created healing space,” very special says Edie. “A place about Palms where customers can to Palmettos, come in for crystals, located at 3357 books, CBD oil supplies, Leaphart Road, amazing events, and an in West Columimpressive display of bia (just between fine art.” Adds Dawn: Interstates 20 “Plan to spend an hour and 26). Edie or so browsing the store, Enright Hershbecause there are so field and Dawn many intriguing items to Ridge opened see.” Together, they share L to R; Dawn Ridge, Edie Enright Hershfield the doors to this the passion and energy to continuouslittle, quaint hidden treasure, just off the beaten path in the summer of 2014. ly strive to bring to you a welcoming, peaceful and relaxing place to visit.

Nestled on a half acre with beautiful

What can one experience at P2P? overhanging live oaks, these ladies The list of features are impressive: turned their vision into a reality. As the Weekly workshops, an in-house welldoors opened on that hot July day, you ness center (Dawn of Your Wellness) could step into an eclectic art gallery providing services such as massage featuring a variety of art, gift items, therapy, reiki and HRV testing, as well collectibles and antiques. At this time, as Edie’s working artist studio. Stop by there was a single room dedicated to and see her latest creations.

Dawn of Your Wellness, where clients

People flow through the doors, could enter for a relaxing massage or commenting they are just drawn to the reiki treatment. This was the initial vistore but are not sure why. Many have sion of the store. Shortly after, custom gotten teary-eyed by the overwhelming framing was added to enhance the feelings they get as they walk through gallery’s ability to provide a full-serthe front door embraced by the positive vice menu for individuals in need energy, magic and good vibes! Whatevof framing and matting heirlooms, er the here-and-now sources of inspiraartwork and more. tion are that leads these ladies to create

Three years later, Palms to Palmettos (P2P) has morphed into “a treat a space to always heighten the experifor all five senses,” according to Edie. ence with spirituality and creativity, it

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surely happens.

Inside the gallery, you will find a wind chime among many hanging from the ceiling, bringing the attention to itself by almost everyone that visits. There is no explanation why it continually shakes by itself. Peaceful Spirits have been seen inside the gallery and on the grounds, such as a Native American woman, a soldier, and a woman in a bonnet. A strong old oak tree sits on the land projecting a very energetic and powerful yet gentle presence. There are many things that cannot be explained in life, but where there is faith, there is healing. Where there is peace, there is presence. Palms to Palmettos wants to be a place of presence for all seekers looking for guidance on their journeys.

Springtime at P2P means it’s time for its annual Holistic Healing Arts Festival in May. This day is always held on a Sunday and brings to you many artisans and holistic practitioners from around the tri-state area that provide services and products for your lifestyle.

Come out to a fun-filled day of family, friends, music and more!

Visit Palms to Palmettos (P2P) today to experience what makes this one-of-akind business so special! Follow P2P on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. For more information, call 803-553-7010.

See ad, page 33.

Preventing, Reversing and Managing Diabetes Naturally

by Linda Sechrist

M

ore health practitioners today are recognizing both the mind-body connection, as well as energetic and metaphysical insights into preventing and reversing illnesses. As a result, those facing diabetes and other health challenges are accessing contemporary resources such as Louise L. Hay’s explanation of the emotional roots of disease in You Can Heal Your Life, and the medical science and natural methods explained by health researcher and author Gary Null, Ph.D., in No More Diabetes: A Complete Guide to Preventing, Treating, and Overcoming Diabetes.

Applying a “both” rather than an “either” approach illuminates the importance of recognizing the ways our thoughts, emotions and lifestyle choices can impact chronic illness and long-term health.

Two Perspectives

michaeljung/Shutterstock.com

Hay suggests that this metabolic disorder may be rooted in a feeling of being deprived of life’s sweetness and longing for what might have been, accompanied by a great need to control deep sorrow. Such chronic unease can show up as Type 1, or insulin-dependent, diabetes; Type 2, or non-insulin-dependent diabetes; latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA), a slowly progressing variation of

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Type 1; or gestational diabetes, which occurs during pregnancy.

Eavesdropping on our repetitive inner mind chatter and observing its impact on outer experiences can reveal faulty thinking that disrupts the mindbody connection. Hay, a firm believer in the power of affirmations to send a message to the subconscious mind, recommends them to aid healing. For diabetes, she suggests, “This moment is filled with joy. I now choose to experience the sweetness of today.”

Null cites medical evidence that explains how the physical causes of diabetes are related to the pancreatic production of the hormone insulin and the body’s use of it, together with rollercoaster blood sugar levels determined by food selections, stress, sleeplessness, insufficient rest and lack of exercise. His approach for preventing, reversing or managing this debilitating condition is to raise awareness of the physical, behavioral and mental causes that lead to its emergence, and making healthy lifestyle choices that regulate blood sugar levels.

Naturally Control Blood Sugar

Glucose, the human body’s key source of cellular energy, is the end product of the digestive system breaking down carbohydrates, proteins and fats for absorption in the intestines. From there, it passes into the bloodstream. Glucose also supplies energy for the brain. Normal blood glucose levels vary throughout the day. For healthy individuals, a fasting blood sugar level upon awakening is less than 100 milligrams (mg) per deciliter (dl) of blood. Before meals, normal levels are 70 to 99 mg/dl; otherwise, 100 to 125. Consistent readings above 126 indicate that lifestyle changes are needed to avoid eventual progression into full Type 2 diabetes.

When there’s an inability to efficiently transport glucose from the blood into cells, cells don’t receive the energy they need to function properly. “Elevated glucose levels contribute to blood vessel damage, high blood pressure and inflammation among other issues. High glucose causes insulin levels to spike in an effort to draw the glucose into cells.

This stresses the pancreas and causes a

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Individuals that consume large amounts of simple carbohydrates and sugars, are overweight or are exceedingly sedentary and eat unhealthy processed foods, have a higher risk for developing Type 2 diabetes.

Iankowitz’s effective, patient-centered practice follows a practical, fourmonth healing plan that includes tracking foods, moods, blood pressure, sleeping habits and exercise, all necessary to manage or reverse Type 2 diabetes.

Nourishing myself is a joyful experience, and I am worth the time spent on my healing. ~Louise L. Hay sugar crash, called hypoglycemia, which can lead individuals to make impulsive, poor food choices,” advises Marcy Kirshenbaum, a board-certified clinical nutritionist and owner of Enhance Nutrition, in Northbrook, Illinois.

She notes, “Elevated sugar and insulin levels raise triglycerides, a fat that circulates in the blood, and cholesterol, specifically the LDL (low-density lipoprotein) levels. Triglycerides and cholesterol are important measures of heart health. Triglyceride levels of 150 mg/dl in fasting blood is a risk factor for a stroke or heart attack.”

Early Heads-Up

According to the American Diabetes Association, 8.1 million of the 29.1 million individuals diagnosed with diabetes were previously unaware of any early symptoms such as dry mouth, excessive thirst, frequent urination, constant hunger (even after meals), unusual weight gain or loss and lack of energy.

“Many individuals only learn of their condition from a doctor-ordered routine blood test such as the A1C glycated hemoglobin procedure, which reads blood sugar levels over a three-month period,” advises Dr. Nancy Iankowitz, a board-certified family nurse practitioner and founding director of Holistic and Integrative Healing, in Holmes, New York.

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Effective Diet Choices

Making the highest-impact food choices is critical in the earliest stages of diabetes. That’s why nutritionist and holistic integrative health practitioner Saskia Kleinert, an independent practitioner who also serves as director of the Emeryville Health & Wellness Center, in California, helps patients integrate dietary changes into everyday life.

“Patient education includes the necessity of eating low-glycemic index foods and reducing blood glucose levels, while increasing healthy fats with nuts, avocado and olive oil,” advises Kleinert. She notes that antioxidant-rich plant foods are another key component of an effective dietary plan for all age groups.

The role of exercise is also vital for those needing to reverse pre-diabetes or managing diabetes aided by insulin injections. “Exercise increases the muscle cell’s demand for glucose, moving it out of the blood into muscle cells that use it as fuel, and so lowering insulin levels,” explains Jamie Coughlan, a naturopathic doctor who practices in Pleasanton and Pleasant Hill, California.

Dr. Angelo Baccellieri, owner of Westchester Wellness Medicine, in Harrison, New York, introduces patients to intermittent fasting, an eating pattern that helps treat insulin resistance and control blood sugar. “The concept is predicated on going 14 to 16 hours without food, replicating how our primitive ancestors ate. They feasted when food was available and fasted during famines, sometimes going several days without eating,” advises Baccellieri, who notes that intermittent fasting can be done one day a week.

“Our biochemistry actually does

very well with this approach, which isn’t hard to do when your last meal is at 7 p.m. and you skip breakfast and delay lunch the next day until 1 p.m.

You can drink water with lemon, teas and black coffee throughout. By 1 p.m., the body has been 18 hours without protein and carbohydrates, allowing insulin levels to remain at a low level.

Excess insulin from too much sugar shifts the body into a storage mode.

Having no sugar stores available, the body can then switch into a ketogenic state that allows the body to burn fat for fuel,” explains Baccellieri.

Herbs such as turmeric reduce inflammation. Berberine can help cells use glucose efficiently. Supplements such as vitamin C, B-complex, resveratrol and pycnogenol (pine bark extract) can raise antioxidant levels, in which most pre-diabetic and diabetic individuals are deficient, according to a study published in PubMed. Cautious health professionals tailor supplement recommendations to each patient.

in meals and snacks with nutrient dense, whole foods. n Determine possible food sensitivities with an elimination diet. n Eat some protein with every meal. n Eliminate environmental toxins. n Perform some form of cardiovascular exercise and resistance training at least three to five times a week. n Add stress-relieving practices such as yoga, tai chi or qigong.

According to Hamdy, “On average, diabetes has the potential to rob you of

more than 12 years of life, while dramatically reducing the quality of life for more than 20 years through chronic pain, loss of mobility, blindness, chronic dialysis and heart disease.” Such serious consequences also include stroke, hearing impairment and Alzheimer’s, he adds.

All provide good reasons to live responsibly every day, cherishing longterm goals of laying claim to the best possible health.

Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Connect at LindaSechrist.com.

Helpful Weight Loss

In The Diabetes Breakthrough, based on a scientifically tested way to reverse diabetes through weight loss, Dr. Osama Hamdy and Sheri R. Colberg, Ph.D., explain a home-based version of the 12-week Why WAIT (Weight Achievement and Intensive Treatment) program offered at the Joslin Diabetes Center, affiliated with Harvard Medical School, in Boston. WAIT allows participants to reach their weight and blood glucose goals, along with improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and liver and kidney function.

The program’s success is due to doable increases in exercising that put greater emphasis on strengthening muscles; effective ways to change bad habits; successful portion control; healthy alternatives to favorite foods; carbohydrate counting; and meals composed of the right balance of complex carbohydrates and antioxidant-rich plant foods, protein and fat, all to achieve optimum body weight and diabetes control.

No Quick Fix

Restoration of health begins with the most important lifestyle changes. n Replace processed and sugary foods natural awakenings

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fitbody

Try Some Stretches Four Ways to Flex Our Muscles

by Marlaina Donato

W

hether working out at the gym or taking to the trails, stretching is sometimes an overlooked asset to any exercise regimen. Eliminating stretches or not doing them properly increases the risk of injury and deprives muscles of what they need for optimum performance.

“Just because you are in shape doesn’t always mean you have good flexibility,” notes LaReine Chabut, a Los Angeles fitness expert and author of Stretching for Dummies. “If you do plenty of strength training and cardio, but you don’t do any stretching, you’re creating an imbalance in your body.

Flexibility plays a big part in overall fitness.”

Loosening up correctly not only fosters flexibility, but also improves muscle endurance and coordination.

“Everyone should be stretching, especially as you age, to maintain range of motion and balance,” advises fitness trainer Ben Wegman, of The Fhitting Room, in New York City. “A personal workout regime can be enhanced with stretching, which also increases mobility, improves posture and performance, and reduces stress levels.”

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Four Categories, Many Variations

“Different types of stretches access different muscles and different types of flexibility, but together, can benefit everyone,” says Wegman. There are many ways to stretch, but knowing what to do and when to do it can be key to optimum results and injury prevention.

Warming up to different types of stretches can be a little daunting, but the basic four (sometimes combined in terminology) are passive, static, active and dynamic. In the past, ballistic stretching was common and included potentially harmful bouncing techniques, but today dynamic stretching has become a favorite among trainers, consisting of specific, controlled movements that prepare the body for the demands of both engaging in sports and an average workout.

“Stretches can be confusing, so as a rule of thumb, I suggest dynamic stretching for any workout that involves movement and passive stretching for cooling down after a workout to release the muscles,” says Chabut.

Stretching also plays an important role in yoga, which generally complements different stretches by adding a mind-body connection. “Breath is the key difference between yoga and regular stretching,” notes Chabut.

“The use of breath allows you

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to get deeper into the muscle. Yoga also places particular emphasis on core muscles: the abdominals, lower back and spinal muscles. Through focus and deep breathing, yoga allows you to move beyond stretching into a deeper physical experience that both strengthens and focuses your body.”

Injury Prevention and Recovery

Nancy Whelan, a physical therapist and owner of The Physical Therapy Center, in West Palm Beach, Florida, emphasizes the importance of proper technique for clients to avoid further injury, especially individuals that had a torn Achilles tendon. “Stretching is important when doing any exercise, and especially important following surgery or injury, because the body’s reaction to either one is to contract, which can cause secondary problems,” explains Whelan.

“I think the body has an intelligence we must listen to. We must acknowledge our limitations and the signals our body sends us to let us know that something is harmful or painful,” she notes. “When you take responsibility to take care of your body, it will take care of you.”

For injury prevention, dynamic stretching offers many benefits. “It’s the best because it ensures that all major joints have full range of motion and sufficient muscle length,” says Wegman.

She advises never to stretch an injured muscle or stretch too forcefully. “Introduce low-intensity stretching back into a regime only under a doctor’s supervision,” she cautions.

Daily Moderation

For Chabut, moderation is everything.

“Gently warm up the body before moving into deeper stretches. Build heat in the muscles slowly to avoid potential injury,” she advises.

Proper stretching is beneficial, but not doing so can foster bad habits and cause muscle or tendon tears. “Stretching cold muscles or using improper techniques such as bouncing when holding a stretch position are common mistakes,” observes Whelan.

Stretching doesn’t have to be

reserved for workouts, and with a little discipline, its benefits can easily be attained at home or the office. “Take 10 minutes during your favorite TV program and perform a couple of stretches,” suggests Wegman. “Make it a point to get up every half-hour and stretch for five minutes before resuming work. If

you aren’t being pushed or pushing yourself, you won’t see results or make improvements. If it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you.”

Marlaina Donato is a freelance writer, author and multimedia artist. Connect at MarlainaDonato.com.

Stretching Guide at a Glance

Benefit: Increases flexibility in the muscles being stretched and increases strength in the opposing muscles.

STATIC What it is: Hold a stretch in a challenging, but not painful position, for 10 to 30 seconds until feeling discomfort; once this is felt, the muscle then releases and relaxes.

PASSIVE What it is: Employ an outside force such as a stretching device, strap or another’s body weight such as a trainer, physical therapist or massage therapist, which assists the stretch while the individual remains passive. The targeted muscles are not actively engaged. Examples include post-workout stretches applying pressure with a body part, towel or other prop or piece of equipment.

Benefit: Improves flexibility.

ACTIVE (aka Static Active) What it is: Engage and contract the muscle group opposite the one being stretched to initiate the stretch; repeat. Many yoga poses are examples of active stretching.

Benefit: Increases range of motion, decreases muscle tension (spasm)

No person, place or thing has any power over us, for ‘we’ are the only thinkers in our mind.

When we create peace, harmony and balance in our minds, we will find it in our lives. ~Louise L. Hay

and reduces post-workout soreness and fatigue.

DYNAMIC What it is: Use controlled, gradual movements and stretches that involve repeated range of motion moves, especially in relation to a specific activity or sport that will follow the warm-up.

Benefit: Prepares the body for activity and warms the muscles; especially advantageous after static stretches.

Builds strength.

Primary sources: Fitness Science; Scott White, a power trainer in Scottsdale, AZ.

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Our holistic approach addresses nutrition, exercise and metabolism.

A better you is waiting. Call (803) 749-4279 or visit elitepersonaltrainingstudio.com

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PERSONAL TRAINING TRIAL INCLUDES: • Movement screening, health assessment • Personalized program design • 4 semi-private training sessions • Nutrition review • 2 “On Point” meetings to keep you on track natural awakenings

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healthykids

Books that Kids Will Love Advice for Parents from Award-Winners

by Randy Kambic

W

hile kids may list movies, vid- World—a nonfiction account designed eo games, music downloads to excite kids 8 and up about math, and other media featuring science and engineering—cultivates their favorite athlete, actor or music positive role models via inspirational star as priority holiday gifts, books will personal stories. She points out that expand their thoughts, curiosity and most of those depicted were not that dreams by exposing them to a different well known, and therefore can be emuset of role models and aspirations. lated and more readily related to.

Reading takes kids away from tech One of these is Katherine Coleman screens and expands horizons in ways Johnson, a black National Aeronautics that can improve their and Space Administration school grades, maturity research mathematician Holiday gift and overall inquisitiveand physicist, portrayed books can inspire in the recent film Hidden ness. Many wise-hearted parents are recognizing lifetime readers. Figures. Marine scientist the benefits, as children’s Eugenie Clark, known as book sales were up 5 the “shark lady” for her percent in the 12-month period ending daring underwater research, and major in mid-October 2016, according to pioneers in cartography, archaeology the American Booksellers Association. and other fields also stir inquiring minds.

Humor, fantasy and magic, classics,

“I wanted to provide a variety nonfiction, time travel and participaof fields, backgrounds and ethnicitory activities rank among the most ties,” remarks Lawlor. “They were all popular topics. determined, very smart and persistent, and made strides in opening Award-Winners’ Advice doors for women.” Lawlor’s 2012 “Children can’t be what they can’t see,” children’s book Rachel Carson and says author Laurie Lawlor, of Evanston, Her Book That Changed The World Illinois. Her 2017 book Super Womdescribes how Carson’s seminal 1962 en: Six Scientists that Changed the book Silent Spring helped spawn the

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conservation and pro-environment movement by chronicling the dangers of pollution.

Children’s fascination with nature and wildlife can also be met through the Dog and Bear series by Laura Vaccaro Seeger, out of Long Island, New York, and Vermonter Jim Arnosky’s scientifically sound wildlife chronicles (JimArnosky.com).

Kelly Barnhill, of Minneapolis, whose latest work is The Girl Who Drank the Moon, characterizes children as quiet, yet highly active when reading. “They are encountering characters and then building, inserting themselves and more information into the stories, making it more relevant to them,” she says.

The former middle school language arts teacher advocates parental reading aloud with children. “Make it a daily practice of turning to a separate book from what they may be reading on their own. You’re helping them develop cognitive structure by reinforcing and explaining. It’s a shared lens on life.”

Cultivate Reading 4 Know the child’s interests. “If they like horses or birds, you’re certain to find great related books,” advises Lawlor.

4 Lead by example. “Seeing you

reading or gardening or making things invites them to learn more about what they like,” says Lawlor.

4 Be flexible and share. There’s no clear-cut time to transition from reading aloud to having a child do it on their own. Try taking turns reading a paragraph and then a page with them. “Women tend to read more than men, so get Dad involved, as well,” says Barnhill.

4 Access quantity. “Make many

books available to kids,” advises Barnhill. “They’ll enjoy having a choice.”

Thrift stores are stocked with heavily discounted used books.

4 Empower them. The interactive, hands-on format of Ellen Sabin’s new The Imagine It Book allows children to “dive in and see how they can make an impact, be innovative, play, fail and then succeed,” says Sabin. “Make them feel like they are ‘driving the bus.’”

Welcoming diversity and providing a safe and reassuring community space for both confident and vulnera-

L

Books Expand Kids’ Horizons

aunched in April, Reading Without Walls (ReadingWithoutWalls.com) is a national initiative celebrating and encouraging reading, diversity and appreciation for those unlike ourselves. “We feel that this will change lives,” says Shaina Birkhead, strategic partnerships director with the Children’s Book Council, one of the program’s partner organizations.

Under the program umbrella, libraries, bookshops, teachers, community youth groups and parents can host “challenge” events. An online guide includes tips on setting up displays and props; fun crafts and drawing activities; how to talk about reading; writing and design contests, word games and puzzles; and bookmark prizes.

“Reading opens up minds and hearts to new people, places and things,” says Gene Luen Yang, a national ambassador of the program and author of the youthful tale American Born Chinese.

ble youngsters, the American Library Association (ala.org) provides libraries with positive, unifying resources for children and families. They include a Storytime for Social Justice Kit; booklist for Hope and Inspiration storytime events; resource list on Talking to Kids about Racism and Justice for parents, caregivers and educators; and curated media list on immigration.

The Barnes & Noble bookseller groups selected children’s books— including classics such as Dr. Seuss titles, poetry, nature, sports, history and science—in five age categories from newborn through teenage years.

“It’s an amazing era for children’s books,” assesses Barnhill. “The success of the Harry Potter series reminded people that kids like real stories. There’s been a boom in creativity, vigor and technical skills in story construction.”

Freelance writer and editor Randy Kambic, in Estero, FL, is a frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings.

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November 2017

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SACRED SILENCE Discover the Benefits of Quiet at a Silent Retreat

by April Thompson

I

ndividuals seeking to escape life’s ceaseless distractions, deepen their personal spiritual practice, enhance well-being and gain fresh perspective, are patronizing silent retreats in rising numbers.

“Retreats are a special opportunity to enter a healing space where your natural energy, insight, intelligence and wisdom can arise,” says Linda Mary Peacock, known as Thanissara, a former Buddhist nun, cofounder of South Africa’s Dharma-giri Hermitage and Outreach and a retreat leader at the Spirit Rock Insight Meditation Center, in Woodacre, California.

Sheila Russ, of Richmond, Virginia, has participated in several retreats with silent components, hosted by spiritual traditions spanning Baptist to Benedictine. “People of different faiths all have the same need to reach inside and listen.

If we don’t slow down and get quiet, we can’t hear what’s going on with us,” says Russ. “Spending time in contemplation is cleansing and freeing; I feel like mentally and spiritually I can breathe.”

Scientific Support

Attaining heightened well-being after a retreat may have a neurological basis, according to research from Thomas Jefferson University’s Marcus Institute of Integrative Health, in Philadelphia.

Silent retreats appear to raise the brain’s levels of mood-boosting chemicals,

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MidlandsHealthyLiving.com

according to Dr. Andrew Newberg, director of research there.

Newberg’s team tested the brains of retreat participants before and one week after an Ignatian-based retreat, finding significant changes in their serotonin and dopamine systems. “Whether through prayers, walks or meditations, the single-minded ritualistic aspect of retreats seems to predispose the brain for peak spiritual experience,” he observes.

What to Expect

Formats vary, but most silent retreats entail extended periods of sitting meditation or prayer, often alternating with walking meditation or other mindful movement. Some may also entail a work detail, like sweeping the meditation hall or helping prepare meals.

“Work tasks help bring mindfulness into everyday life,” says Chas DiCapua, a resident teacher for the Insight Meditation Society’s flagship retreat center in Barre, Massachusetts, who has led silent retreats teaching Buddhist practices for 20 years. “The community aspect is equally important; being surrounded by people that support your spiritual practice can encourage you on what can be a lonely path.”

Silence doesn’t mean being static and somber or not thinking, counsels David Harshada Wagner, of Ojai, California, whose meditation retreats

buffaloboy/Shutterstock.com

healingways

draw from the Indian mystical traditions of yoga, vedanta and tantra.

“Silence is more than the absence of talking; it’s a powerful energy,” says Wagner. “Silent retreats are the loudest, as the energy is roaring within. It should be a joyous practice.”

Yet retreats aren’t a cakewalk. Los Angeles author and mindfulness facilitator Jennifer Howd chronicles the challenges of her first nine-day silent retreat in Joshua Tree, California, in her memoir Sit, Walk, Don’t Talk. Seven retreats later, Howd says that although the journey isn’t always easy, she always gains insights about herself and the nature of the mind.

Choosing a Retreat

Retreat leaders caution that while it’s good to jettison expectations and approach the experience with an open mind, choose a retreat that fits individual needs. The level of personal attention at retreats can vary greatly, remarks Thanissara. “Some may host 100 or more people, relying largely on taped instruction without much interaction with

The deliberate, conscientious practices of my first silent retreat made me appreciate each moment: the gifts, blessings, music, stretching, meditation, prayers and practice of stillness. ~Unity retreat feedback group leaders. A small group might be better for a first retreat,” she suggests.

Thanissara recommends an upfront review of instructor credentials and starting with a weekend retreat before embarking on one of longer duration.

Regardless of length, retreats aren’t always for everyone. “If you’re going through emotional or psychological difficulties, it’s best to discuss your circumstances with a teacher at the

GlebSStock/Shutterstock.com

Retreats for All Faiths

retreat center before deciding to attend.

If you’re in therapy, talk with your therapist,” counsels DiCapua.

Retreat Back to Everyday Life Afterwards, ease back into the daily routine; don’t rush back into old patterns of media and food consumption, recommends Howd. “Try to build-in a day or two of down time. You may still be processing things emotionally.”

DiCapua suggests finding a local community of a kindred practice to keep the momentum going, and not expect to keep it up as earnestly at home as at the retreat. Attending daylong maintenance retreats on Saturdays or Sundays can also help sustain individual practice. Above all, “Appreciate yourself for having thought to go on a retreat and follow it through,” says DiCapua. “It can be a radical thing.”

Connect with freelance writer April Thompson, in Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com.

(RollingMeadowsRetreat.com) offers silent retreats combining yoga and meditation. Leaders Patricia Sunyata Brown and Surya-Chandra Das take an eclectic approach incorporating multiple traditions to stimulate self-inquiry and compassion.

Insight Meditation Society:

R

etreat centers vary from nondenominational to those aligned with a faith, but even within a tradition, styles of meditation vary. The following opportunities highlight some of the more prevalent offerings. RetreatFinder.com and RetreatsOnline.com can be helpful tools.

Omega Institute: One of the largest centers on the East Coast, the Omega Institute (eOmega.org), in Rhinebeck, New York, offers yoga, meditation and mindfulness retreats led by notable and varied spiritual teachers.

Unity: The Unity church, a Christian faith honoring all paths to God, offers an annual silent retreat facilitated by

Rev. Paulette Pipe (TouchingTheStillness. org). Held at Unity Center, in Kansas City, Missouri, the experience incorporates soulful music, labyrinth walks and meditation practice.

Tassajara Zen Mountain Center:

A working monastery for more than 50 years, Tassajara Zen Mountain Center and Hot Springs (sfzc.org/tassajara), in the Ventana Mountains of northern California, offers lay meditation practitioners a sense of monastic life each summer. Retreats are mainly taught in the Zen Buddhist tradition, focused on observing the breath and mind.

Rolling Meadows: Located in rural Brooks, Maine, Rolling Meadows

Founded by Sharon Salzberg, Jack Kornfield and Joseph Goldstein in the 1970s, the Insight Meditation Society (Dharma.org) focuses on the Buddhist practices of metta (spreading lovingkindness) and vipassana (insight) meditation. Silent retreats at its historic center in Barre, Massachusetts, range from two days to three months.

Jesuits: A Roman Catholic order cofounded by St. Ignatius, the Jesuit tradition incorporates prayer, meditation, self-awareness and other contemplative practices. Jesuits.org/ retreat-centers lists Jesuit retreat centers across the U.S. where seekers can deepen their relationship with God through silence.

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wisewords

How can we distinguish between true and false fear?

Lissa Rankin on

Moving from Fear to Freedom

by April Thompson

L

issa Rankin wears many hats: physician, mystic, author, artist, speaker and blogger. What unites her many pursuits is a passion for helping people optimize their health and understand how science and spirituality converge toward that goal.

A former obstetrician and gynecologist, Rankin is the founder of the Whole Health Medicine Institute, in San Francisco, which trains doctors in mind-bodyspirit medicine. She’s authored six books to date, including the bestseller Mind over Medicine, The Fear Cure and The Anatomy of a Calling. She lives in California’s Marin County and blogs at LissaRankin.com.

What common signs indicate that fear is affecting our health?

When people are sick, there is almost

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always an element of fear. Many of us have “ridden shotgun” at one time or another with a health diagnosis, and that’s scary, so even if it’s not predisposing the illness itself, it can stimulate fear. Studies from institutions such as the Harvard School of Public Health and Carnegie Mellon University have discovered strong correlations between fear, stress and anxiety and health issues.

When fear is predisposing us to illness, addressing the root cause of the issue is preventive medicine.

Whether triggered by something trivial or real, fear activates the “fightor-flight” stress response in the brain.

The body has natural self-healing mechanisms, but these only operate when our nervous system is relaxed, so effectively dealing with fear is foundationally critical to wellness.

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True fear is an actual threat to physical survival, like being approached by someone wielding a gun. However, most fear is generated by a story we make up in our minds. Our wild imaginations, the source of beautiful creativity, can be a destructive force, too, as we envision all kinds of worst-case scenarios, most of which will not come true.

Modern-day humans average more than 50 stress responses a day, which indicates we’re way off track in our relationship to fear. The mind constantly strategizes how to get what it wants and avoid what it doesn’t. A spiritual practice can help interrupt the “monkey mind” constantly ruminating on what could go wrong.

Paying attention to fear around practical issues like not being able to pay bills is helpful because it can keep us from being reckless, such as buying an unneeded luxury item although our mortgage payment looms. But letting false fear prevent us from following a dream, ending an unhealthy relationship or leaving a toxic job can predispose us to illness. Fear is the emotional equivalent of pain in the body. Attend to it when it arises; try to understand what it is telling you and see what’s in need of healing.

What are some effective ways to defang false fear?

Ultimately, we need to come into the right relationship with uncertainty; it’s the gateway to possibility. People often think that fear provides protection, when our intuition, which typically requires a relaxed state of mind, is a far more effective protector. There have been studies about doctors following their hunches to

a patient’s underlying condition, leading to life-saving diagnoses.

How can we cultivate courage, curiosity and resilience, rather than feed our fears?

Cultivating a spiritual practice such as mindfulness helps put a pause between a feeling like fear and the reaction that might ensue. You learn to sit with uncomfortable feelings and recognize the story you are spinning in your mind about what’s happening. It also means letting go of expectations when things don’t go as planned.

Fear is my cue to activate a practice of surrender; to turn something over to the universe. I will also ask for help to calm my heart and let go of attachments. For me, this life-changing practice means I now trust the mystery more than my mind. I trust the unknown more than science and logic. The latter may be useful tools when doing taxes or a research paper, but I don’t trust them to be the best navigation system of my life or help me in a crisis.

Psychology isn’t enough to address fear, which comes with the territory if you think that we are just flesh robots programmed to maximize self-interest, alone in a hostile universe. Once you learn to see the possibilities and hand over the wheel to a greater, benign organizing intelligence, something unwinds in the nervous system and we relax into the wonder of mystery.

Connect with freelance writer April Thompson at AprilWrites.com.

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Christopher L. Kukk, Ph.D.

THE COMPASSIONATE ACHIEVER

How Helping Others Fuels Success

A

With the new day

comes new strength and new thoughts. ~Eleanor Roosevelt

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cting with human decency—in every situation and interaction—is another way to connect to human capabilities hidden in plain sight. In news and TV stories about those that did something heroic, they usually say that they were just doing their job or they did what anyone else would have done in the same situation. None of them did it for recognition or to receive a plaque; they did it because it was the right thing to do.

It was, in their minds, what any decent human being would do.

We have met two types of people that say “I’m just doing my job”: those that use it as an excuse to do nothing to help others and those that use it to downplay credit for heroism. There is a third type of person that uses the phrase: an individual who ordinarily and routinely acts with kindness, civility and respect in normal daily life.

Albert Camus’ main character in The Plague, Bernard Rieux, illustrates the point that you don’t have to perform heroic acts like saving lives; you just have to “do your job” with common decency—meaning civility and respect.

Rieux reflects: I know now that man is capable of great deeds. But if he isn’t capable of great emotion, well, he leaves me cold. . . .

However, there’s one thing I must tell you: there’s no question of heroism in all of this. It’s a matter of common decency.

That’s an idea which may make some people smile, but the only means of fighting a plague is—common decency.

you encounter. You befriend and never belittle. Common decency is about honoring and respecting the human dignity of every individual.

I call this way of everyday thinking and acting Rieux’s Routine. Following Rieux’s Routine is the middle way between the excuser and the unsung hero; it’s something that each of us can follow without ignoring (the excuser) or risking (the hero) anything. It’s about acting on our common belief in basic decency. Recent national surveys on civility show that 95 percent of us believe in common decency, but are concerned about its decline in our political, communal and personal lives.

At the beginning of 2016, 70 percent of Americans polled said that incivility in their country has reached “crisis levels,” up from 65 percent in 2014.

The “crisis” begins and ends within each one of us—meaning that if we each choose to act with civility, we can avert problems that eventually create crises.

Rieux’s words point to the idea that basic common decency is all that is needed to overcome and even avoid problems in every aspect of society. It’s acting in ways that prioritize kindness, courtesy, and respect for each person

From The Compassionate Achiever: How Helping Others Fuels Success by Christopher L. Kukk, Ph.D. Copyright ©2017 by Christopher L. Kukk, Ph.D., published by HarperOne, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers.

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inspiration Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock.com

Ohio, author of Kindness is Contagious, observes, “We are literally created to be kind; it’s well known that feel-good endorphins are released when we do an act of kindness. I think we often hold back because we predetermine that our resources are limited. Know your talents and gifts, and build your acts of kindness accordingly.”

Marlaina Donato is a freelance writer, author and multimedia artist (MarlainaDonato.com).

Feed Your Soul

Sharable Thanksgiving

Ways to Focus on What Really Matters

by Marlaina Donato

Thanksgiving inspires a season of appreciation for what sustains us and gives meaning to life.

Share Good Food “I think true sustenance is when our hunger for connection and belonging meet,” says Sarah Ban Breathnach, the Los Angeles author of The Simple Abundance Journal of Gratitude. “When my daughter was small, we would purchase a complete Thanksgiving dinner for the local food pantry when we shopped for our own, saying, ‘One for us, one for them.’”

Nourishment of our emotional and spiritual selves often begins with choosing simple, whole food. Rocco DiSpirito, a New York City celebrity chef and author of Rocco’s Healthy + Delicious, reminds us, “Eat real food! Return to the basics of eating what’s produced by Mother Nature. You’ll become a better partner, parent and person.” Cooking is more enjoyable when shared; beyond partaking together, partnering in meal preparation is a fun way to nurture bonds with others any time of the year.

Bangor, Pennsylvania, has opened her doors for intimate community events through the years. “My former home, a converted church, was a perfect space for organizing and a way to give back,” says Caldara, who has hosted gatherings on local environmental issues, music performances, literary nights and annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. celebrations.

Small living spaces can be just as welcoming and facilitate simple conversation, a valuable gesture. “The art of listening is such a beautiful, but rare act of kindness. I love technology, but there’s no denying that our devices have made us poor listeners,” says Michael J. Chase, of southern Maine, the founder of The Kindness Center, whose books include Am I Being Kind and Off: A Memoir of Darkness, a Manual of Hope.

Each month, Chase makes it a point to visit friends and send some handwritten notes instead of using social media.

Share Life’s Happiness

Practice Kindness

Common interests lessen the chasm between our to-do lists and nurturing camaraderie. Anna Maria Caldara, of

Sharing our time or talent will be remembered long after the holiday feasting. Author Nicole J. Phillips, of Athens,

n Revive a traditional weekly or monthly dinner with family or friends. n Whip up and enjoy a healthy dinner or dessert with someone not seen in a while. n Organize a healthy potluck using local ingredients and encourage invitees to bring someone that’s new to the group. n Choose a healthier version of a holiday favorite and print out the recipe for everyone at the event. n Fill a holiday basket with yummy and colorful edibles and drop it off at a local business or library to express appreciation. n Seek reconciliation by initiating a conversation with someone that may have been hurtful. n Explore ThePeoplesSupper.org to join or host a dinner to make new friends.

Offer Some Time n Offer to help clean up a friend’s yard or organize a closet or room in their house. n Host a children’s art party and donate their works to a local facility or shelter. n If in possession of a holistic, artful or practical skill, gift it. n Bring a pot of homemade soup to a friend or neighbor that’s under the weather. n Find ideas for random acts of kindness at Kindness.org.

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November 2017

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November 2017

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calendarofevents NOTE: All calendar events must be received by November 12 (for December issue) and adhere to our guidelines.

To submit listings, email ColaPublisher@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com. Costs $20 for 35 words each month.

ALWAYS CALL AHEAD BEFORE ATTENDING EVENTS TO AVOID LATE CANCELLATIONS AND CHANGES

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3 Dances of Universal Peace–7-9pm–w/Marguerite Frongillo. The dances lift our spirits and open us to awareness of the divine in each other. Free; donations accepted. Near Midtown Mall, in Forest Acres, Columbia. Info/directions: Contact Frongillo at 803-743-0731 or Mff426@gmail.com.

limited. Registration deadline: November 3. Palms to Palmettos, 3357 Leaphart Rd, W Columbia. Info/ register: 803-553-7010.

Art of Energy Management–1-3pm. Cost: $30.

Space is limited to 14. Registration deadline: November 3. Palms to Palmettos, 3357 Leaphart Rd, W Columbia. Info/register: 803-553-7010.

NOVEMBER 4, 11, 18 & 25

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12

Murraywood Health Food–10am-6pm. 20% off all grocery items, excluding local honey. Murraywood Shopping Center, 7001 St Andrews Rd, Columbia.

Info: 803-732-3847.

Jubilee! Circle’s Dedication–11am. Join us for a special celebration as Jubilee! Community Asheville Minister Howard Hanger will dedicate Jubilee!

Circle’s new meeting space. Free. Jubilee! Circle, 2627 Millwood Ave, Columbia. Info: 803-569-6385, JubileeCircle.com.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5 Woofstock 2017 at Jake’s–3-7pm. Pet lovers bring out those furry, four-legged family members for an evening of bands, barks and tasty brews. Jake’s Bar & Grill, 2112 Devine St, Columbia. Info/cost/event sponsor: 803-783-1267, ESmith@HumaneSC.org, HumaneSC.org/woofstock.

NOVEMBER 6, 11, 16, 21 & 27 Discount Days at Rosewood–8am-8pm. 20% off purchase price; mention this listing. Deli sale items not included. Rosewood Market, 2803 Rosewood Dr, Columbia. Info: 803-530-3270, RosewoodMarket.com.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 7 Providence Cooks–Healthy Entertaining–6-8pm.

Registered dietitian Kay MacInnis hosts a sophisticated holiday dining event with instruction and special guests. Cost: $25. Limited space. Providence Health, 2435 Forest Dr, Columbia. Info/registration: 800-424-3627, bit.ly/ProvCooks2017.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8 Health, Hormones and Homeostasis Seminar– Presented by Dr. Rachel Hall. Free. Due to limited capacity, call to preregister and reserve a space. Only those preregistered will be allowed to attend. Expect Wellness, 130 Suber Rd, Ste D, Columbia. Info/ times/registration: 803-796-1702, DrRachelHall.com.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11 EdVenture’s Military Appreciation Day–9am5pm. Admission free for guests that present a valid military ID. EdVenture Children’s Museum, 211 Gervais St, Columbia. Info: 803-779-3100, EdVenture.org.

Veterans Day at Riverbanks Zoo–9am-5pm.

Admission free for active duty and retired military personnel with a military ID. Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, 500 Wildlife Pkwy, Columbia. Info: 803779-8717, Riverbanks.org.

Tales From Feyron Storytelling–11am-1pm. Local author Diana Wicker. Story and craft time for children ages 8 and up. Cost: $15/child. Space is

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Columbia Edition

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14 & 28 Health, Hormones and Homeostasis Seminar– Presented by Dr. Rachel Hall. Free. Due to limited capacity, call to preregister and reserve a space. Only those preregistered will be allowed to attend. Expect Wellness, 130 Suber Rd, Ste D, Columbia. Info/ times/registration: 803-796-1702, DrRachelHall.com.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17 – SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 19 Palmetto Health Festival of Trees–Fun, family-friendly entertainment and activities. Decorated trees, wreaths, stockings and gifts will be up for bid during a weekend-long silent auction benefiting the Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital. Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, 1101 Lincoln St, Columbia. Info/cost/times: 803-434-7275, PalmettoHealthFoundation.org.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18 Holiday Market at Crooked Creek–8:30am2:30pm. Shoppers can purchase paintings, handmade jewelry, home decor pieces and much more.

Crooked Creek Park, 1098 Old Lexington Hwy, Chapin. Info/vendor registration: 803-345-6181, icrc.net.

City of Columbia Gardening Workshop–Starting Seeds–10am. This informative hands-on session will educate participants on the four critical elements of starting seeds (water, temperature, soil and light) and why one should start the seed-growth process indoors. Free. Earlewood Park Community Center, 1113 Parkside Dr, Columbia. Info: 803-545-3100.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 19 Jewelry Making 101–1-3pm. The art of beadwork w/MaryJo Briggs. Make one bracelet for yourself and one as gift to give someone for the holidays.

Registration deadline is November 9. Cost: $40.

Palms to Palmettos, 3357 Leaphart Rd, W Columbia.

Info/register: 803-553-7010.

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22 – SUNDAY, DECEMBER 31 Holiday Lights on the River–6-10pm. Drivers take a journey through colorful lights and more than 400 animated light displays, craft-making, marshmallow roasting, a laser light show and hayride shuttles to the Wetland Walking Trail or ride the Saluda Shoals train. Saluda Shoals Park, 6071 St Andrews Rd, Columbia. Info/cost: 803-772-1228, icrc.net.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 27 Relief Fundraiser Day for Columbia Resilience–3:30-6pm. Available services include CranioSacral Therapy, clothed massage, energy healing, acupressure for emotions, aromatherapy, facilitated labyrinth and walking meditation. A light meal will also be served. Preregistration required. Cost: $20.

Integrated Health Clinic for Trauma at St. Mark’s Methodist Church, 3200 Lyles St, Columbia. Info/ appointment/register: Call Pam Lorentz at 803-7491576 or visit ColumbiaResilience.com.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29 Dental Implant Seminar–6-7pm. 5:30pm registration. Learn the benefits of dental implants, includes refreshments. Free. The Art of Dentistry/Dr. Gregory Wych, 7505 St Andrews Rd, Irmo. Info/registration: 803-781-1600, DentalImplantsColumbia.com.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30 Ralph Jarrell’s Book Release and Signing–6-8pm.

A drop-in to meet and greet the author of Ill Gotten Gain and take home an autographed copy for family and friends. Palms to Palmettos, 3357 Leaphart Rd, W Columbia. Info: 803-553-7010.

planahead FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1 Dances of Universal Peace–7-9pm–w/Marguerite Frongillo. The dances lift our spirits and open us to awareness of the divine in each other. Free; donations accepted. Near Midtown Mall, in Forest Acres, Columbia. Info/directions: Contact Frongillo at 803-743-0731 or Mff426@gmail.com.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 4 Sustainable Holiday Celebration Fundraiser–4:30-8:30pm. Fundraiser for Sustainable Midlands. Cost: $5. 701 Whaley St, Columbia. Info/ tickets: 803-470-4302, Info@SustainableMidlands. org, SustainableMidlands.org.

ongoingevents sunday wednesday

to five canned goods to a specified food drive. Mats and blankets are provided. North Springs Park, 1320 Clemson Rd, Columbia. Info: 803-414-2885.

Eckankar Spiritual Discussions and Community HU–10am. Free. Every 2nd Sunday. An esoteric approach to God realization without dogma or judgment. 7 Oaks Rec Center, 200 Leisure Ln, Columbia. Info: Call Steve Fischer at 803-318-1887, or visit Eck-SC.org or Meetup.com/Columbia-Spiritual-Seekers.

monday Beginners’ Yoga–5:30pm. Perfect for starting yoga. Cost: $14 drop-in, package rates available.

Expect Wellness, 130 Suber Rd, Columbia. Info: 803-796-1702.

Columbia Resilience Integrated Health–3:307:30pm. Every 4th Monday. Energy-balance modalities offered through trained practitioners for chronic stress and post-trauma relief. Suggested donation: $10/session. By appointment only. St. Mark United Methodist Church, 3200 Lyles St, Columbia. Info/ appointment: Call Pamila Lorentz at 803-749-1576.

Infertility Support Group–7-8:30pm. Every 2nd Monday. Free and confidential. Resolve: The National Infertility Association. Richland Library, 1431 Assembly St, Columbia. Info: Email Andrena King at ResolveColumbia@gmail.com.

tuesday Green Drinks–Sustainable Midlands and Keep the Midlands Beautiful are partnering to bring you Green Drinks at Jake’s on Devine. Enjoy a drink and get together with like-minded folk and share ideas.

Call for date, time and details 803-733-1139. Jake’s Bar & Grill, 2112 Devine St, Columbia.

Healing the Body and Spirit–5:30-6:45pm. Every Tuesday. Twelve-week series for women for selfcare trauma relief. Classes are a group exploration of the body’s natural healing wisdom, using aromatherapy, voice, and deep relaxation techniques. Sponsored through the Richland County Discretionary Grant. Donations to Columbia Resilience accepted to support the Community Integrative Trauma Clinic. Space limited, preregistration required. Chi Energy Balance, 3610 Landmark Dr, Columbia.

Info/register: Call Pamila Lorentz at 803-749-1576.

Holistic Practitioners Networking Group– 6:30pm. Every 2nd Tuesday. Come join a fun, informative group designed to help practitioners connect, learn and grow their businesses. Free. 108 Netherland Dr, Irmo. Info: Call Julie Bradshaw at 803-800-9211.

Reflexology with Essential Oils–7pm. Every 2nd Tuesday. Free. Chiropractic Care Center, 7245 St Andrews Rd, Columbia. Info: Call Patty Kranendonk at 803-730-9083.

Yoga Gives Back–6:30pm. Studies have shown that yoga has been effective in relieving anxiety, reducing stress and increasing energy. The first class is free. To attend regularly, participants are asked to give a $5 donation, volunteer at least one hour of time at a determined scheduled event or give two

Awaken Your Energy, Awaken Your Life–7pm.

Every 2nd Wednesday. Align your energy to feel better, manage your life goals, and have better relationships. Cost: $30. Preregistration required. 6 Cupola Ct, Blythewood. Info/registration: 803-8009211, http://bit.do/awakenyourenergy.

Intentional Healing Circle–6:30pm. Every Wednesday. Carolyn Gregory leads meditation and healing exercises. Learn how to be grounded in healing energy for yourself and the world. Free.

Jubilee! Circle, 2627 Millwood Ave, Columbia.

Info: 803-569-6385, JubileeCircle.com.

thursday Beginners’ Yoga–5:30pm. Cost: $14 drop-in, package rates available. Expect Wellness, 130 Suber Rd, Columbia. Info: 803-796-1702.

Directional Healing Group Sessions–5:306:45pm. Every 3rd Thursday. Group healing to facilitate spiritual/emotional/physical clearing and energy balance. Suggested fee: $15 at door. Space limited, preregistration required. Chi Energy Balance, 3610 Landmark Dr, Columbia Info/register: Call Pamila Lorentz at 803-749-1576.

Energy Balance for Life–w/Joy Connor, LMBT– 10-11:30am. This class is part of the women’s trauma-release series, a six-week session beginning September 14. Learn and practice stress-reduction techniques. Bring a mat or towel. Cost: $5. Location to be provided with registration. Must preregister.

Info: Call Pamila Lorentz at 803-749-1576.

Yoga Gives Back–6-7pm. Studies have shown that yoga has been effective in relieving anxiety, reducing stress and increasing energy. The first class is free. To attend regularly, participants are asked to give a $5 donation, volunteer at least one hour of time at a determined scheduled event or give two to five canned goods to a specified food drive. Mats and blankets are provided. North Springs Park, 1320 Clemson Rd, Columbia. Info: 803-414-2885.

saturday Murraywood Health Foods 20% off Saturdays–10am-6pm. 20% off all grocery items, excluding local honey. Murraywood Shopping Center, 7001 St Andrews Rd, Columbia. Info: 803-732-3847.

Connect with us naturally!

CLASSIFIEDS To place a classified listing, email content of listing to ColaPublisher@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com or mail with payment to Natural Awakenings, P.O. Box 2812, Columbia, SC 29202. $20 for 35 words each month.

Additional .50 per word over 35 words.

Please include billing contact information.

Deadline is the 12th of the month prior.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Garner’s Natural Life – Interested in working in Natural Health? Garner’s Natural Life is always looking for qualified candidates that share the same passion we do for natural health and helping others.

Apply online at GarnersNaturalLife.com.

Natural Roots Pest Control – The Midlands eco-friendly pest control and wildlife-removal company is seeking a pest control and wildlife technician. Full-time, hourly position, no experience necessary. Interested applicants, please email NaturalRootsEco@gmail.com.

FOR PROFESSIONAL Room for Rent at About Your Health – Perfect for massage therapists, reflexologists or energy workers. $10 an hour. Call About Your Health at 803-798-8687 for more information.

Room Available for Holistic Practitioner – Available December 1. Call to schedule an appointment to see the space. Dawn of Your Wellness, 3357 Leaphart Rd, W Columbia. Call 803-553-7010.

SERVICES Kombucha Workshop and Tastings – Debey Hancock, Functional Nutritionist, will come speak at your church events, businesses, schools, civic groups and support groups on the importance of gut health, healing, and prevention of chronic and acute illness/ disease and taking control of your own wellness.

Attend or host a Kombucha taste testing and learn how to make your own Kombucha. Call Hancock at 803-566-2600 or email Wellness360@usa.com.

SPACE AVAILABLE Event/Workshop Space at Jubilee! Circle – 2,200 sq. ft. available for one-time events, study groups, classes or weekly meetings. Long-term rentals also available for hosting recurring events or classes.

Jubilee! Circle, 2627 Millwood Ave, Columbia. For more info or to tour space, contact Rev. Candace Chellew-Hodge at 803-569-6385.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Columbia Resilience 501c3 provides three community work projects to support sustainability in the Midlands. The Community Orchard, First Time Bank of Columbia, and the Integrated Health Clinic.

Participate in evolving your neighborhood into the beautiful place you want to live in. Go to our website at ColumbiaResilience.org and our Facebook page to join one of the projects. Alternative therapy practitioners interested in volunteering for the Integrated Health Clinic fundraiser should contact Pam Lorentz at 803-749-1576.

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naturaldirectory 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 Natural Directory, call 803-233-3693 or email ColaPublisher@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

ACUPUNCTURE THE ACUPUNCTURE CLINIC

William D. Skelton, DAc 620 Sims Ave, Columbia 803-256-1000 • SCAcupuncture.com

Bill Skelton is dedicated to helping people live happier, healthier, active lives with safe, gentle and effective techniques.

He has 38 years’ experience and trained in the Republic of China.

Call to schedule an appointment. See ad, page 13.

ANIMAL HOMEOPATH WELLNESS MATTERS

Brenda M. Tobin, DVetHom, CertCN 803-712-4522 WellnessMatters4U@yahoo.com

FAMILY PRACTICE OF CHIROPRACTIC

Dr. Jim Minico, DC 203 Amicks Ferry Rd, Chapin 803-932-9399 • DrMinico.com PatientServices.fpc@gmail.com

It is our mission to provide the community with the highestquality chiropractic care possible.

Exceeding your expectations in a caring, modern and positive environment. Restoring the body’s natural healing process.

A holistic approach to health utilizing chiropractic, massage therapy, exercise therapy, nutrition, weight management and homeopathy. See ad, page 29.

COLLABORATIVE LAW LAW OFFICE OF SHANNON K. BURNETT

Brenda holds her degrees in classical homeopathy and veterinary homeopathy. She uses her extensive knowledge of homeopathy, essential oils, herbs and supplements to treat you and your pets’ acute and chronic disease naturally. Bioenergetic feedback is also available. Office visits, phone/Skype consults, and home and barn visits are available.

Shannon Burnett helps families through legal issues that normally tend to tear families apart. She works in a collaborative fashion with other trained professionals to minimize the damage done to your family; it is her goal for your family to achieve a successful outcome and healthy resolution.

AROMATHERAPY

COLON HEALTH

GARNER’S NATURAL LIFE

4840 Forest Dr, Ste 15-A, Columbia Trenholm Plaza, in Forest Acres 803-454-7700 • GarnersNaturalLife.com

Improve your level of stress, depression and mood with natural products from a locally owned family business. Our knowledgeable staff will guide you using aromatherapy for pain, anxiety, energy enhancement and more. We carry several brands of essential oils, including doTERRA. See ads, pages 3, 33 and back page.

CHIROPRACTIC CHIROPRACTIC WELLNESS CENTER INC.

Dr. Shelly Jones, DC 5209 Forest Dr, Ste C, Columbia 803-771-9990 • DrShellyJones.com

Webster Technique certified, Dr. Jones provides family chiropractic care, health information and wellness resources to support the body’s natural ability to heal, allowing one to feel better and enjoy living a more active lifestyle! Call to schedule your appointment or discuss bringing our onsite chiropractic care and health-education services to your business, school or athletic team.

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109 N Main St, Blythewood 803-786-1758 • Shannon.skblaw@gmail.com

SPRING RAIN HYDROTHERAPY

Linda Salyer 120 Kaminer Way Pkwy, Ste H, Columbia 803-361-2620 • LSalyer@ymail.com

All disease begins in the colon.

Constipation; slow, sluggish bowel; gas and bloating? A colonic will help to rid you of these problems. Colonics promote good digestion, help speed metabolism, help lower cholesterol, and help relieve joint pain. Linda Salyer is IACN certified and a retired nurse. Saturday appointments available with an additional small convenience fee. See ad, page 13.

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY CHI ENERGY BALANCE

Pamila Lorentz, MSW, RN, LMBT 3610 Landmark Dr Forest Acres • 803-749-1576 ChiEnergyBalance.com

The innate wisdom and healing potential is within you to heal patterns of chronic stress and past trauma. Chi Energy Balance provides experienced guides to support you on your personal journey of health and freedom from pain and anxiety. Services include spiritual aromatherapy, CranioSacral Therapy, integrated massage, sound/vibrational frequencies, reiki and directional healing. Call today! See ad, page 42.

MidlandsHealthyLiving.com

DENTISTRY ART OF DENTISTRY

Dr. Gregory J. Wych, DDS 7505 St. Andrews Rd, Irmo 803-781-1600 • IrmoCosmeticDentistry.com

Dr. Wych and his staff are committed to giving each patient the quality care and attention each desire and deserve. He believes that in dentistry, discovering the cause of the problem is the key to resolving it and to preventing its recurrence. Something he has done successfully for his patients for more than 28 years. Call today to schedule your appointment.

See ad, page 2.

CHILDREN AND ADULT DENTAL GROUP

Tonia Patterson - Regional Manager 7457 Patterson Rd, Ste 107 Columbia • 803-807-2140 candaImmediateDental.com

Wi t h a f o c u s o n d e n t a l health education, our team of professionals will help you love your smile again. From straighter teeth in just 6 to 12 months with Fastbraces technology, to implants or dentures—we can have you smiling again in no time. We also offer conscious sedation, allowing for a positive experience for little ones. Call today! See ad, page 11.

FOREST DRIVE DENTAL CARE

Dr. Joanna Silver Dover, DMD 3731 Forest Dr, Columbia 803-782-8786 • ForestDriveDental.com

Dr. Dover provides comprehensive, and compassionate dental care. BPA- and Bis-GMA-free composites, BPA-free occlusal guards, natural periodontal therapy, fluoride-alternatives for tooth remineralization, and mercuryfilling removal following IAOMT standards using supplemental oxygen, special filters and amalgam separators to keep toxic metals out of our waterways.

See ad, page 7.

ECO-RICH SKIN CARE PRODUCTS JUST WANNA MELT LLC Misty Rawls • 803-331-0063 Info@JustWannaMelt.com JustWannaMelt.com

A green skin care company that creates high-quality, non-GMO, all-natural products that are gentle to the skin and safer for the environment. Our brands include ingredients such as organic oils, butters, flowers, herbs, botanicals, local grains, beeswax and honey. Find our products at such stores as Garner’s Natural Life, Four Oaks Farm, Wingard’s Nursery, Whole Foods and more. For a complete list of retail locations, visit our website.

KOMBUCHA

PALMS TO PALMETTOS

EMPOWERMENT & INSPIRATION

Edie Enright, Artist 3357 Leaphart Rd, W Columbia 803-553-7010

JULIE E. BRADSHAW

Inner Wisdom Guide 803-800-9211 • Juleseck@aol.com TheSourceWithinYou.com

Julie helps women release and let go of stress, overwhelming circumstances and life situations.

She helps to instill confidence, and can assist you in creating the life you truly can enjoy and be passionate about! Call Julie today!

LIL’ DUCK KOMBUCHA

Edie is a self-taught artist from California. Her Spirit-guided paintings are a mixture of styles and vibrant color inspired by her rich life experiences. Edie’s work speaks deeply to the inner soul.

Come visit her eclectic gallery and wellness center, which features a wide variety of oneof-a-kind gifts, beautiful art pieces, services, and great health and wellness items for the mind, body and soul.

Services include massage, reiki, holistic counseling and homeopathy. See add, page 33.

INTEGRATED HEALING

HEALTH FOOD STORE MURRAYWOOD HEALTH FOODS

Richard Beale, Owner • 803-732-3847 7001 St. Andrews Rd, Irmo In Murraywood Shopping Centre Hours: Mon-Sat, 10am-6pm

Locally owned and proudly serving Irmo and the Midlands area for more than 25 years, Murraywood Health Foods is a health and specialty food store featuring the very best natural product brands, vitamins and minerals, herbs and homeopathic remedies. The store also carries natural and organic gluten-free foods and health and beauty products. Call today for more information or to schedule a special appointment.

HEALTH & WELLNESS FOREST ACRES WELL CARE

Misty Clare-Sumerell 5101 Forest Dr, Columbia 803-851-5890 ForestAcresWellCare.com

A family-owned well-care facility focusing on mind, body and beauty.

Scheduled health and healing activities in our new salt room include: group yoga (led by Clare Ellinger); group meditation; “gong bath” group healing (led by Christi Stewart); afterschool children sessions; and hourly individual sessions. Coming soon: an all-natural organic spray tan booth and weight-loss and pain-management modalities. We look forward to helping you on your journey to wellness. See ad, page 43.

PHOENIX RISING

Katz Delauney-Leija, MSW, EFT-CC, TAEE Psych-K, Health & Wellness Intuitive 803-530-6199 • Katz-PhoenixRising.com

Are you unhappy in your relationships, current job or career choice? Are you frustrated with not feeling well or being in pain? Katz can guide you to greater health and a better life by combining her traditional and intuitive skills to help you. Call Katz Delauney-Leija today to schedule an appointment.

INTEGRATIVE & HOLISTIC MEDICINE EXPECT WELLNESS

Dr. Rachel Hall 130 Suber Rd, Columbia 803-796-1702 • 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. Rachel Hall is board certified in both family medicine and integrative holistic medicine.

Together we will focus on finding the root of the problem, not just treating symptoms.

Call today for a consult if you are looking to achieve balance. In-house diagnostic labs and therapies. See ad, page 25.

We are not cisterns made for hoarding: we are channels made for sharing. ~Billy Graham

Debey Hancock Soda City Market, 1500 Main St, Columbia 803-566-2600 LilDuckKombucha.com

Debey is a functional nutritionist and naturopathic and homeopathic consultant. She has created her own version of kombucha, an ancient fermented tea-based probiotic beverage produced by fermenting sweet tea with a culture of yeast and bacteria. Revered as a healing agent, kombucha is believed to provide micronutrients, probiotics and bacteria beneficial to digestion, detoxification and cleansing. It is also believed to help balance pH levels, stimulate metabolism, enhance energy levels and much more!

You can find Debey on Saturdays at the Soda City Market on Main Street, in Columbia. See ad, page 16.

LIFE COACHING COHN LIFE COACHING

Debbie Cohn, MSc, ILCT 803-467-4072 Debbie@CohnLifeCoaching.com CohnLifeCoaching.com

Debbie can help you maximize your personal and professional potential by providing you with the tools and insight to reach your goals, wants, vision and desires—as you are the true expert of your own life. She specializes in many aspects of professional coaching, including relationships, personal and life challenges, grief and bereavement, midlife issues, and leadership development. Debbie is a qualified professional with extensive experience as a therapist and life coach. Call Debbie today for a FREE 30-minute consultation!

MASSAGE THERAPY A KNEAD FOR NURTURING Jenny Sepulveda 3608 Landmark Dr, Columbia 803-873-6355

Jenny Sepulveda is a licensed massage therapist with more than 14 years’ experience. She also has a degree in occupational studies from The Swedish Institute of Manhattan. Sepulveda is certified in prenatal, craniosacral, reflexology, and hot and cold stones treatment. She is dedicated to providing stress and pain relief through massage for people of all walks of life. Come and experience the relaxation massage therapy has to offer you. See ad, page 32.

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MEDICAL TOURISM

SPIRITUAL

COLOMBIA TRAVEL LOGISTICS (CTL)

HAVE YOU HAD A SPIRITUAL EXPERIENCE?

888-599-3284, Ext 701 ColombiaTravelLogistics.com

Colombia Travel Logistics (CTL) provides outstanding aesthetic surgical experiences abroad with accredited surgeons working in state-of-the-art facilities. CTL takes care of the travel arrangements, private transportation from the airport to the hotel and clinics, bilingual translators, fourand five-star hotel lodging, medical/travel insurance and local area tours. Service regions and countries include Central America, Spain, England, Japan, Italy and the U.S. Save as much as 50 percent of the cost of equivalent procedure in the States. Call for a free consultation. See ad, page 6.

PSYCHOTHERAPY INTEGRATIVE HEALING CARE LLC Jennifer Bennett, LISW-CP 1703 Richland St, Columbia 803-254-5650, ext 202 JenniferBennett.ihc@gmail.com

Jennifer is a holistic psychotherapist who integrates traditional and nontraditional approaches to healing mind, body and spirit under her license in South Carolina as an LISW-CP. In a comfortable, supportive atmosphere with a highly personalized approach, Jennifer supports you in achieving your personal potential. Call Jennifer today to schedule an appointment.

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Contact Steve 803-318-1887 • ECK-SC.org Meetup.com/Columbia-Spiritual-Seekers

Eckankar hosts free, informal, non-dogmatic spiritual discussions.

All are welcome. Topics include dreams, coincidences, past lives, God’s creative life force, and more. Call ahead. Times and dates may vary.

SPIRITUAL HEALER GAYLORD SPIRITUAL COUNSELING 5227 Two Notch Rd Columbia • 803-786-2684 ColumbiaPsychic.com

At Gaylord Spiritual Counseling, we offer many methods in dealing with everyday problems. We also offer insight and guidance for those dealing with unexplainable difficulties. Our gifted and intuitive advisers will help you discover the answers you seek.

TO PLACE A NATURAL DIRECTORY LISTING

CALL 803-309-2101

MidlandsHealthyLiving.com

THERMOGRAPHY ABOUT YOUR HEALTH INC.

120 Kaminer Way Pkwy, Ste J, Columbia 803-798-8687 • AboutYourHealthSC.com

Our main focus is health education and health-enhancing services. One-on-one nutritional counseling, Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Reams pH testing, parasite programs, aquachi footbaths, far infrared sauna, weight-loss programs, and thermography. Hard-to-find natural, organic, whole food nutritional supplements, raw foods and natural household items. See ad, page 29.

VITAMINS & 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 highquality natural products. With more than 130 collective years of wellness experience! Allows us to encourage your healthy choices.

See ads, pages 3, 33 and back page.

Connect with us naturally!

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MidlandsHealthyLiving.com