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Awakening to Spirit

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Prayer and Meditation Heal and Free Us

Sweetly Vegan

No-Bake Holiday Treats Worth Celebrating

Natural Pint-Sized Fragrances Givers

The DIY Guide to Teaching Kids how to Beautifully Safe Scents Care and Share

December 2015 | Grand Strand Edition | GrandStrandHealthyLiving.com image is courtesy of PlantPure Nation

letterfrompublisher

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contact us Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Keith Waller Assistant Editor Sara Gurgen Design & Production Kristina Parella Stephen Gray-Blancett Advertising Sales Keith Waller Johnathan Waller Accounting and Billing Johnathan Waller

s 2015 comes to a close, we look back on what this year meant to us and celebrate all the challenges and opportunities we’ve experienced during the year—from which we’ve grown wiser, and hopefully kinder and more understanding. It’s the perfect time to take stock and be grateful for the rewards we’ve received and the wonderful people that have joined us on our journey.

As we head into our tenth year of producing Natural Awakenings of the Grand Strand, it is my hope that the spirit within our little magazine has brought light to the community and helped some find comfort or knowledge or connection with others that also search for a natural, healthful and balanced life.

From all of us here at Natural Awakenings, we wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays and that you find joy in everyone you meet and all that you do.

To contact Natural Awakenings Grand Strand Edition: 404 64th Avenue North Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 Phone: 843-497-0390 Fax: 843-497-0760 GSPublisher@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com GrandStrandHealthyLiving.com

© 2015 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.

Keith

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.

Johnathan

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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Sara

Jayne

contents 7 4 newsbriefs

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7 healthbriefs

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.

1 0 globalbriefs

12 GREEN CONGREGATIONS

1 2 greenliving

by Avery Mack

Faith Groups Join in Preserving All Creation

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15 consciouseating 2 1 fitbody

15 SWEETLY VEGAN

23 healingways

by Judith Fertig

25 calendar

No-Bake Holiday Treats Worth Celebrating

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29 resourceguide

18 AWAKENING TO SPIRIT

30 classifieds

by Richard Davenport

Prayer and Meditation Heal and Free Us

advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 843-497-0390 or email GSPublisher@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com. Deadline for ads: the 10th of the month.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to GSPublisher@ NaturalAwakeningsMag.com. Deadline for editorial: the 10th of the month.

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Email Calendar Events to GSPublisher@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com or fax to 843-497-0760. Deadline for calendar: the 10th of the month.

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 843-497-0390. For franchising opportunities, call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

21 AIRPLANE YOGA Six Easy Stretches Ease the Journey

21

by Cynthia Bowman

22 GENEROUS

PINT-SIZED GIVERS Teaching Kids How to Care and Share

by Jennifer Jacobson

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23 HEAVENLY SCENTS How to Make Your Own Natural Oil Fragrances

by Kathleen Barnes

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newsbriefs Kindbelly’s New Location Is Now Open

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he newest Kindbelly is now open and serving its superhealthy menu, including some new breakfast items. The new restaurant, located on 76th Avenue North in Myrtle Beach, sports a full kitchen, new dining area and terrace. With a focus on local farm foods, sustainable foods, and vegan and vegetarian options, the California fresh-style Kindbelly menu brings to Myrtle Beach an ideal dining option for health-conscious and Earth-conscious patrons.

The expanded menu now includes several egg-based breakfast items, such as the Calicoast Toast, Medi-toast, Ranchero plate and Be Fast plate, with such healthy ingredients as avocado, microgreens, hummus, quinoa, and many homemade condiments and toppings. The signature smoothies, wraps and the Acai and Pitaya Bowls are available at both Kindbelly locations, along with the new CocoCacao Bowl, which is expected to be a hit. Fitness and sports enthusiasts have asked for high-protein options, and Kindbelly has answered with lean poke tuna, pulled chicken, and tuna or chicken salad toppings.

As a bonus, mention Natural Awakenings all through December and receive 10 percent off the bill.

Location: 316 79th Ave. N., Myrtle Beach (restaurant), and 3533 Fountain Ln., Myrtle Beach (café). For more information, visit Facebook: Kindbelly, and see ad, page 23.

Sexy Raw Vegan

Shares Lavish Holiday Treats

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n a fun, intimate setting, Drew McCall Burke, aka the Sexy Raw Vegan, will present delicious holiday low-fat raw vegan food in a simple workshop for all to enjoy on Decem-

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ber 6, from 4:30 to 8 p.m., in Murrells Inlet. Attendees will learn how to make quick-and-easy appetizers, soups and desserts, and develop culinary skills with simple combinations of whole raw foods. They will learn through a handson participatory class how to make healthy holiday gourmet raw vegan delights for their family and guests. Chocolate, mint cake; carrot cake; gourmet kale chips; caramel; truffles; mousse; and frozen hot cocoa hemp latte are just some of the explorations in decadent lavish holiday treats.

Burke is called the Sexy Raw Vegan by friends and family for her absolute passion to help everyone get sexy and healthy through a low-fat raw vegan diet. Her website is full of “rawcipes” and helpful tips to get live raw food and fun fitness into one’s life. She has been involved in the health and fitness industry throughout her career as a fitness trainer, physical therapist assistant and raw food coach. She is also a speaker and the author and coauthor of six raw food and juice cleansing books and ebooks.

For more information or to register for the holiday event, visit SexyRawFoodAndFitness.com or email VeganReality@hotmail. com. Space is limited, so one must book one’s seat early.

Inlet Yoga Holiday Celebration and Anniversary

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nlet Yoga studio, in Murrells Inlet, will be featuring King’s Ransom, Doug Elder and Om Sweet Om jewelry; doTerra essential oils; Healers Hands Massage gift certificates; teas and candles; home gifts; Manduka mats; blocks; straps; and more for perfect gift giving. All retail will be on sale. This is also a great opportunity to support local craft people and give a handmade gift that was made with love. Crafters that would like to join the event should call right away to be included.

Ring in the New Year and celebrate Inlet Yoga’s fourth anniversary with complimentary classes all morning long; a raffle drawing; chair massages, featuring Jennifer Uhler, of the Healers Hands; along with other special treats to help

attendees start the New Year on the right foot. And for those new to the studio, they can join Inlet Yoga for the month of January with an unlimited membership for only $30.

Location: 637 D Bellamy Ave., Murrells Inlet. For more information on these and other classes or events, call Inlet Yoga owner Maribeth MacKenzie at 843-655-6272 or visit InletYogaMyrtleBeach.com.

Shanti Yoga Teacher Training

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hanti Yoga Studio, with a location in Myrtle Beach and in Pawleys Island, is already booking the next 200-hour teacher training class coming up in April. This training is designed for yogis that feel a call to serve others through the path of yoga. By a process of asana practice, meditation and study of the self, the student will learn to find his/her authentic teaching platform.

Location: 4025 N. Kings Hwy., Myrtle Beach, and at Litchfield Exchange, 14361 Ocean Hwy., Pawleys Island. For more information, contact Shanti Yoga Studio owner Dawn Yager at 843-467-5444 or visit ShantiMyrtleBeach.com. See ad, page 15.

The Amazing Research of HeartMath Those that need a break from the stress of Christmas shopping should consider treating their heart and mind to a seminar with Joe DiSabatino, MEd, who will be explaining the paradigm-shifting research of the California-based Institute of HeartMath, on December 12, from 3 to 4:30 p.m., at Yoga in Common, at the Market Common in Myrtle Beach.

The fee is a “heart offering” of whatever one feels is appropriate. Registration is not required.

According to HeartMath, the physical heart is much, much more than a pump. The heart operates its own center of intelligence that is separate from the brain. The heart constantly communicates with our brain and every system in our body in four biological and energetic languages, monitoring and influencing their performance.

When our heart is experiencing love, appreciation and gratitude, it takes over as the master organ in the body, optimizing the function of every physical system. While in that positive emotional state, which can be self-induced, our creative intelligence, problem-solving ability and relationship capacity are also greatly enhanced. This innate capacity for cultivating positive physical, emotional and mental well-being can be easily learned.

Presenter DiSabatino has been a psychotherapist, trainer and teacher for more than 20 years. He has successfully used the Institute of HeartMath’s techniques with clients for more than a decade.

A Metaphysical Christmas at Unity

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nity of Myrtle Beach will host A Metaphysical Christmas workshop facilitated by Kyle Shiver, author of the book Solving the Puzzles of Life, on Sunday, December 20, at 1:30 p.m.

This interactive workshop will take away all the excuses; and using hands-on techniques, Shiver will teach participants how to begin moving in the direction in which they want to go in their life. Participants will learn all the common pitfalls to avoid and will take with them a proven and precise way to get exactly what they need. All the answers and divine ideas are truly within each of us and we are meant to have access to them. The workshop will be offered on a love-offering basis. Shiver will also be guest speaker and guest musician at the 11 a.m. service the same day. His topic will be The Power of Intention.

Shiver is music director at Unity of Savannah and spiritual leader of Tybee Spirit, in Tybee Island, Georgia. He has a bachelor’s degree in spiritual healing and a certification in meditation from the Yogananda Institute.

Location: 1270 Surfside Industrial Park Dr., Surfside Beach.

For more information about Kyle Shiver, visit TybeeSpirit.org.

For more information about Unity of Myrtle Beach, call 843238-8516 or visit UnityMyrtleBeach.org. See ad, page 25.

Holiday Celebration at Goodwellness

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oodwellness Therapeutic Massage and Personal Training, in Myrtle Beach, is having its Holiday Open House on Saturday, December 5, from noon to 3 p.m. Refreshments will be provided in the Goodwellness training studio by Brother Shuckers Fish House. Enjoy live music, great food and meet the experts of Goodwellness, along with many clients and friends that will be stopping in. It’s a great opportunity to

Location: 3062 Deville St., Myrtle Beach. For more information, call 843-839-9636 or visit YogaInCommon.com. natural awakenings

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newsbriefs relax, enjoy and talk about what is possible for getting back in shape and feeling good in 2016.

In the spirit of giving during the holidays, Goodwellness will also be collecting donations for Blue Star Mothers of Coastal Carolina to help local homeless veterans and soldiers serving overseas. To see what is on the Blue Star wish list, visit the Facebook page “Goodwellness.”

the now. He delivers instantly accessible songs that take up residence and resonance in the soul. His work is often compared to the experiential connections of the late Pete Seeger.

The Sima concert is not simply a performance, it’s a gathering, a connection—somewhat of a musical satsang, or gathering of truth—that navigates the audience on a musical journey. Sima has an unparalleled ability to connect audiences in a very visceral, powerful way, changing the vibration and consciousness in the room. The evening is presented for a suggested donation of $25.

Location: 4999 Carolina Forest Blvd., Unit 15, Myrtle Beach. For more information, contact owner Cyndie Crew Johnson at 843-236-9811 or visit Goodwellness.com. See ad, page 15.

Location: 1270 Surfside Industrial Park Dr., Surfside Beach.

For more information about Bob Sima, visit BobSima.com.

For more information about Unity of Myrtle Beach, call 843238-8516 or visit UnityMyrtleBeach.org. See ad, page 25.

Holiday Yoga Gift Certificates

Ripley’s Festival of Trees

on Sale at Yoga DiVita

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oga DiVita studio, in Longs, is offering an “Om mazing” opportunity to share the body, mind and spirit connection this holiday season. There is something for everyone, and everyone is welcome.

The $30 Yoga Gift Certificate gives any student an opportunity to participate in one class per day for two weeks.

The studio offers classes seven days a week, in mornings and evenings, and offers a full range of classes from the gentlest Restorative Yoga classes to the more challenging Vinyasa Flow. Other classes include Yin, Gentle and Hatha Yoga. This is an excellent opportunity to try lots of different yoga styles and to get started on a wonderful practice of mindfulness, health and self-care. It’s a truly life-changing gift that keeps giving.

Location: Parkway Plaza, 2126 Hwy. 9E, Unit G2, Longs. For more information call 843-283-2827 or visit YogaDivita.com.

Bob Sima Returns to Unity Music Meditation and Concert

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onday, December 7, Bob Sima is welcomed back to Unity of Myrtle Beach, in Surfside Beach, for a full evening of meditation, beginning at 6:30 p.m., followed by a concert at 7:30 p.m. Sima (pronounced sEYE-ma) is to music what Wayne Dyer, Don Miguel Ruiz and Eckhart Tolle are to books and Rumi, Hafiz and David Whyte are to poetry. He has been called “Eckhart Tolle with a guitar.”

Through the medium of melody and message, he leads listeners to an expanded consciousness, deeper sense of connection, and inner peace and purpose. His music bridges daily life and soul consciousness, the eternal with

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ipley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach is excited to present its annual Festival of Trees from November 6 through December 31. Ripley’s has more than 75 holiday trees on display throughout the aquarium, each uniquely decorated. Visitors will be able to explore the aquarium’s 14,000 aquatic animals while enjoying the holiday decorations. The 2015 Ripley’s Festival of Trees includes 55 Christmas trees decorated to represent the heritage and diversity of our great United States and U.S. territories.

Visitors to the aquarium should bring their letters to Santa Claus! Ripley’s has added a brand new mailbox with a direct line to the big man in red himself. For each stamped letter received, Ripley’s will donate one toy to the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots. Ripley’s is an official drop-off location for the Toys for Tots Program.

Festival of Trees is included with regular aquarium admission. Ripley’s Aquarium opens at 9 a.m. every day of the year, including Christmas day.

Location: At the north side of Broadway at the Beach at 1110 Celebrity Cir., Myrtle Beach. For more information, visit RipleyAquariums.com/MyrtleBeach.

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uccess is finding satisfaction in giving a little more than you take. ~Christopher Reeve

healthbriefs

People Double Up on Calories After the Holidays

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espite the popularity of New Year’s resolutions, scientists have found that post-holiday food shopping decisions don’t necessarily reflect intentions to eat healthier or lose weight.

Scientists from Cornell University tracked resolutions and after-holiday food shopping habits of 207 families. They classified about 20,000 food products as either “healthy” or “less-healthy”.

Calories and dollars spent were also tracked.

Analysis of 37 weeks of activity that included the extended winter holiday period and into the new year found that additional food expenditures and calories began about a week prior to Thanksgiving and peaked during Christmas celebrations. Compared to the rest of the year, this increased shopping averaged just over $16 more a week, about $4 of which was spent on healthy foods.

Food expenditures then continued to increase after the holidays to about $25 more a week compared to the average—showing a 24 percent increase. However, $13 of this was spent on healthier foods.

Calorie levels also increased. “Total weekly per-serving calories increased by 440 during the holiday period relative to the baseline period, and nearly 91 percent of this increase was due to additional purchases of the more calorie-dense foods,” the researchers reported.

“Even more intriguing is that contrary to well-intentioned New Year’s resolutions, additional weekly per-serving calories purchased increased to 890 in the post-holiday period relative to the baseline, more than doubling the 440 calorie increase evident in the holiday season,” the researchers observed. Of this, 63 percent of the additional calories were from high-calorie foods.

Asbestos Found in Crayons and Children’s Toys

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esearch from the Environmental Working Group’s Action Fund has determined that some popular children’s toys contain a chemical that previous research has linked to lung disease and lung cancers. The researchers tested 28 boxes of crayons and 21 crimethemed toys at the Scientific Analytical Institute in Greensboro, North Carolina. They found that four of the crayon brands and two of the crime-scene toys contained asbestos.

All of the asbestos-containing toys were manufactured in China. The products included the Disney Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and Nickelodeon Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle brands of crayons, the EduScience Deluxe Forensics Lab Kit and the Inside Intelligence Secret Spy Kit. The latter two brands contained asbestos within the fingerprint powders.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, asbestos from all sources is responsible for up to 15,000 U.S. deaths each year.

It’s in Our DNA to Be Successful

We can help you thrive. Advertise in our special

Health & Wellness January Issue To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

843-497-0390

natural awakenings

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healthbriefs

Color Your Diet!

What? A rainbow of colorful vegetables and fruits will give one the phytonutrients one needs. Strive for 5 to 9 servings per day (a serving equals ½ cup cooked veggies or fruit, or 1 cup raw. Wouldn’t it be nice to replace bland starch foods with a rainbow of fruits and vegetables?

Why? To enjoy a level of health and energy that you never dreamed could be possible. To protect one’s DNA from damage that can lead to accelerated aging, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease and heart disease. A healthful colorful diet could reduce the risk of disease.

How? Eat a fruit or vegetable from each color group: red, red/purple, orange, orange/yellow, yellow/green, green and white/green daily. Each color will provide a special benefit to ones's body.

When? Now is the time to create healthy eating habits to maximize one’s health. Inlet Nutrition offers a Colorful Diet Workshop on December 2 and 16, from noon to 1 p.m.

Reservations required.

Where? Inlet Nutrition, 3556B Old Kings Hwy., Murrells Inlet.

Superfruit Antioxidants Found in Chilean Maqui Berry

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esearch from the University of Arizona’s Health Sciences Center has confirmed that the South American superfruit maqui berry (Aristotelia chilensis) can aid the cardiovascular system and reduce blood sugar. Clinical trials found a group of antioxidants, called delphinidins, significantly reduced levels of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or “bad” cholesterol, which is linked to atherosclerosis and other heart diseases.

The clinical research found that the delphinidins contained in the maqui berry, known as the richest natural source of the antioxidant, aid the health of blood vessels by increasing nitric oxide and decreasing platelets linked with thrombosis, the clogging of arteries that can cause strokes. The researchers also found that the superfruit may help counteract skin aging from ultraviolet radiation-B (UVB) exposure.

Meditation Linked to Telomere Integrity in Cancer Patients

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aintaining telomere length has been directly linked to longer lifespan in a number of studies. A telomere is the structure at the end of a chromosome that protects it from deteriorating or fusing with other chromosomes. Its length is being used to measure the potential success of integrative therapy for recovering cancer patients; now University of Calgary research has found that mindfulness meditation helps.

The researchers tested 88 breast cancer survivors with a previous diagnosis of stage-one to stage-three breast cancer.

The patients’ telomere lengths were tested after either group-support therapy or mindfulness meditation training that included gentle hatha yoga exercises. Results showed that while the control group’s telomere lengths decreased over time, both the mindfulness group and the support therapy group were on average able to maintain their telomere length throughout the testing period.

Who? Please RSVP to the class coach and teacher, Linda Sacchetti: 843424-9586.

A Sneak Peak Recipe: Colorful Greens Simple and Clean!

Springbank Retreat for Eco-Spirituality and the Arts 1-, 2-, & 3-month sabbaticals, Feb. 3-April 27

Ingredients: red onion, spring onions, Kalamata olives, kale, olive oil and pomegranate balsamic vinegar.

Sautee onions in olive oil, add olives, kale and pomegranate balsamic vinegar. Cover and steam until kale is tender.

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The Beauty Way: A Widening Embrace, Dec. 4-6 Contemplative Retreat & T’ai Chi Chih, Feb. 5-7 Wholeness/Holiness Retreat for Women: Opening Minds & Hearts, Feb. 8-13 Enjoy 80 acres of quiet beauty.

Register by calling 843-382-9777 l www.SpringbankRetreat.org

Springbank@SpringbankRetreat.org l 1345 Springbank Rd., Kingstree, SC 29556

Digital ‘Blue Light’ Reading Disrupts Sleep Rhythms

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ecent findings from Brigham and Women’s Hospital, in Boston, has determined that reading from a light-emitting tablet or computer before bedtime will disturb sleep and may change the circadian rhythms that govern the body’s clock.

The research, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, tested 12 people for two weeks.

On five nights during one week, the subjects read ebooks on an iPad for four hours before bedtime. Another week, they read from printed books for the same duration.

During the five days of iPad reading, the participants fell asleep later and spent less time in rapid eye movement (REM)-stage sleep. The light-emitting tablet altered the circadian rhythm, changing the body’s natural sleeping pattern. The researchers also tested other blue-light emitting devices, including laptops, tablets, other eReaders, cell phones and LED monitors.

“We found the body’s natural circadian rhythms were interrupted by the shortwavelength enriched light, otherwise known as blue light, from these electronic devices,” says neuroscientist Anne-Marie Chang, Ph.D., one of the study authors.

Dr. Charles Czeisler, Ph.D., a leading sleep researcher, remarks, “In the past 50 years, there has been a decline in average sleep duration and quality. Since more people are choosing electronic devices for reading, communication and entertainment, particularly children and adolescents who already experience significant sleep loss, epidemiological research evaluating the long-term consequences of these devices on health and safety is urgently needed.”

Potatoes Don’t Pack on Pounds

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esearch from scientists at the University of California, Davis has mashed the notion that potatoes cause weight gain. The researchers tested 90 overweight people divided into three groups, with all of them eating five to seven servings of potatoes each week over a three-month period.

Two groups reduced their calorie intake by 500 calories per day, with one group eating low-glycemic index (GI) foods and the other group eating high-GI foods. The third group had no calorie restrictions. Despite the increased potato consumption during the study period, all three groups showed slight weight loss and reduced body mass index.

The researchers concluded, “Potato intake did not cause weight gain.”

Spirituality is Beneficial for Cancer Patients

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ccording to a new review of research published in the journal Cancer, a strong religious or spiritual belief system may improve a cancer patient’s prognosis physically, emotionally and mentally.

Researchers from Florida’s H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute and North Carolina’s Wake Forest School of Medicine reviewed clinical studies that included more than 44,000 cancer patients. The first review focused on physical symptoms and found that patients with stronger religious and spiritual beliefs reported fewer cancer symptoms and better physical health. They also showed enhanced capabilities in managing their daily lives.

“These relationships were particularly strong in patients that experienced greater emotional aspects of religion and spirituality, including a sense of meaning and purpose in life, as well as a connection to a source larger than oneself,” states Heather Jim, lead author of the first review.

The second review focused on mental health and found reductions in anxiety, depression and distress among those with greater spirituality. Lead author Dr. John Salsman comments, “Also, greater levels of spiritual distress and a sense of disconnectedness from God or a religious community were associated with greater psychological distress or poorer emotional well-being.”

In the third review, the researchers found that patients with a stronger spiritual well-being reported better social health, as well. natural awakenings

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

Fungus Among Us

Mushrooms Offer Pesticide-Free Insect Control Paul Stamets, one of the world’s leading mycologists, invented a fungus (mushroom)-based pesticide in 2006.

An industry executive states, “This patent represents the most disruptive technology we have ever witnessed.” This “smart” pesticide provides a safe and nearly permanent solution for controlling more than 200,000 species of insects.

Entomopathogenic (insect-destroying) fungi are altered so they don’t produce spores. This actually attracts the insects, which then eat them and turn into fungi from the inside-out. The invention has the potential to revolutionize the way humans grow crops.

Source: Earth. We Are One. View the patent at Tinyurl.com/FungusPesticidePatent.

Sentient Beings

New Zealand Enacts Bill Recognizing Animal Intelligence The New Zealand Animal Welfare Amendment Bill that passed into law this year states that animals, like humans, are sentient beings. Dr. Virginia Williams, chair of the National Animal Ethics Advisory Committee, says this acknowledges, “Animals can experience both positive and negative emotions, including pain and distress.” The bill thus bans the use of animals for testing cosmetics.

Williams says the legal recognition of animal sentience provides a stronger underpinning of the requirements of the existing Animal Welfare Act. The bill also provides for penalties to enable low-to-medium-level offenders to be punished more effectively and gives animal welfare inspectors the power to issue compliance notices, among other measures.

Find a link to the legislation at Tinyurl.com/NewZealandSentienceBill.

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Uncommon Devotion Religion in America Shows Resilience On any given Sabbath, four of 10 Americans travel to a place of worship, a number that hasn’t fluctuated dramatically in the past half-century. Gallup polls report that more than 81 percent say they identify with a specific religion or denomination; 78 percent say it’s an important part of their lives; and 57 percent believe that religion is able to solve today’s problems.

While recent attendance may be off, Americans are no less likely to attend services today than they were in the 1940s and early ’50s, just prior to the ultra-religious following decade. The reason, says Gallup’s Frank Newport, is that U.S. religious worship is cyclical.

Today’s practicing religious communities “tend to consist of the seriously committed, not just those swept along by obligation,” reports Christian Smith, director of the Center for the Study of Religion and Society at the University of Notre Dame and coprincipal investigator of the National Study of Youth and Religion.

Those that worship regularly are more likely to be older, female and Southern; they also are better educated and stronger financially than those that don’t, according to Newport. At the same time, Mitchell Marcus, a University of Pennsylvania professor, characterizes his Ph.D. students as religiously curious, often devout and eager to talk about their beliefs.

Source: The Christian Science Monitor

Greener Globe

World Powers Vow Cuts in Emissions This year’s G7 Summit of the U.S., UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan, plus the European Union, has agreed in principle that the global economy must be completely fossil fuel-free by the end of this century to curb destructive climate change. To that end, the nations agreed to work toward cutting emissions between 40 and 70 percent by 2050.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel also announced that the G7 countries would raise $100 billion from public and private sources by 2020 to help poorer nations adapt. Environmental groups such as Greenpeace praised the action. In a statement, the Sierra Club called it “the first time that the leaders of the world have made clear with one voice that we must get off fossil fuels completely.”

Two hundred countries are expected to commit in writing to specific plans for greening their economies at the United Nations Climate Change Conference this month in Paris.

STICK WITH THE BEST

Source: TheHill.com

Good Tithings

Lend a Hand to Causes While You Shop This holiday season, every gift purchased through GoodSearch. com can earn a donation of up to 30 percent of its value for a favorite charity, along with money-saving coupons for the customer. More than 2,500 national retailers are participating in the program, including Apple, Target, Toys “R” Us, Ralph Lauren, Macy’s, 1-800-Flowers, PetSmart and Expedia.

Instead of limiting qualifying purchases to a particular product and charity, the campaign includes nearly every product in the store. The donation goes to the charity or school of the shopper’s choice with the cooperation of the organization’s GoodShop, which has raised more than $9 million for charities ranging from The American Red Cross and ASPCA to local homeless shelters and schools.

Each Internet search through the website also earns the charity about a penny.

With GoodDining, meals at more than 10,000 restaurants earn donations, with more than 100,000 charities and schools benefitting. UNICEF has used money from GoodSearch and GoodShop to provide clean drinking water to more than 200,000 children.

Post-It Progress

3M Requires Paper Sources to Meet Sustainable Standards

You can trust us to get your message out to our readers.

Advertise in our special

Health & Wellness January Issue

A new sustainability policy by the 3M Corporation, maker of Post-it notes, has drawn support for its goal of making a minimal impact on forests, wildlife and human rights. 3M paper-based products and packaging require pulp and paper from sources around the world. Working in collaboration with ForestEthics and Greenpeace, the company launched a comprehensive review of all of its pulp and paper procurement expectations to ensure the materials are produced from sustainably logged timber.

3M will now hold paper and pulp suppliers accountable to one of the highest standards in the industry for environmental protection and respect of human rights, including tracing origins and obtaining consent of indigenous peoples and local communities before logging operations occur. The company intends to publish semiannual updates of its progress online.

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

Source: ForestEthics.org

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December 2015

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photo courtesy of View Dynamic Glass

greenliving

Green Congregations Faith Groups Join in Preserving All Creation

by Avery Mack

The film Renewal documents this grassroots movement at RenewalProject.net.

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he simple act of switching on a bulb can light a room; preaching that humans are caretakers of the Earth can enlighten a community.

“How are we faithful to God’s creation?” asks Diana Butler Bass, Ph.D., author of Grounded: Finding God in the World—A Spiritual Revolution, in Alexandria, Virginia. “The connection between the natural world and the world we live in helps us understand the remarkable responsibility we have to the planet.”

Along with an emotional bottom line, many people pose a greater question: What is the cost to our spiritual life if we act selfishly? “We need to know what is sacred and what matters for generations to come,” says Bass. “This is an exciting time for communities of faith to work together.” Churches, synagogues, mosques and other faith groups are sending a

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message to their congregations and communities: We need to care for what the Creator has given us.

Showing the Way

“We wanted to reduce reliance on foreign oil, support local businesses, buy American-made and be cost-effective,” says Rabbi David Freelund, of the Cape Cod Synagogue, in Hyannis, Massachusetts.

“Going solar made sense. We leased panels, joined a renewable energy credit program and now generate 90 percent of our energy.”

The synagogue also upgrades equipment to more efficient levels when it’s time for replacement, composts waste, maintains a garden to supply a local food pantry, switched to LED lights, zoned their facility’s heating and cooling and follows a single-stream recycling program. “We

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seek to lead by example. Members ask, ‘What else can we do?’ As Jews, our mission is not fulfilled unless we lift up others toward the divine,” says Freelund.

Windows often make up a large portion of a building of worship, but can be the least energy-efficient components. Members of Colorado’s Steamboat Christian Center, in Steamboat Springs, used to wear sunglasses or change seats during services to escape the sun’s glare and heat. After installing smart glass windows, everyone can now fully concentrate on the sermon.

“The glass tints like transition sunglasses, based on available light or preprogrammed preferences,” explains Brandon Tinianov, a senior director with View Dynamic Glass, the company that supplied the new windows. “It also reduces heating and cooling costs.”

Laying Down Burdens

“Clutter represents postponed decisions,” says Barbara Hemphill, author of Less Clutter, More Life, in Raleigh, North Carolina. “Lack of time, interest and energy keep us from passing along what we no longer want or need. For most of us, 80 percent of what we keep, we never use.”

That includes paperwork, another specialty of her Productive Environment Institute. When the United Methodist North Carolina Conference Center’s new building was ready, there was plenty to sort through before moving. “We estimate seven tons of items were recycled.

It became an example for individual churches,” says Hemphill.

Her own church, Mount Zion Methodist, in nearby Garner, has cleared out two storage rooms. Items were reclaimed, auctioned or donated to a shelter. “We gained Sunday school rooms in return,” she says.

Practice Makes Perfect

Awareness of the environment and eco-friendly living is a concept religions agree on. At the All Dulles Area Muslim Society, in Sterling, Virginia,

We need a conversation which includes everyone, since the environmental challenge we are undergoing, and its human roots, concern and affect us all. ~Pope Francis an education program encourages community members to recycle, plant trees and lower water and energy usage. Including their Sunday School, they reduced their overall carbon footprint by 13 percent and energy consumption by 21 percent. Interfaith Power & Light is active in most states and can help implement such userand eco-friendly changes.

Imam Johari Abdul-Malik, the director of outreach for the Dar Al Hijrah Islamic Center, in Falls Church, Virginia, suggests thinking larger and encourages members to ask for changes in public policies by lobbying their representatives. In 2016, the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago will promote a Green Ramadan. During Ramadan, members re-evaluate their lives in light of Islamic guidance.

Greener than most, The Garden Church, in San Pedro, California, has no building. “People tell me, ‘The outdoors is my church;’ I take them at their word,” says founding Pastor Anna Woofenden. “We have a central table surrounded by gardens.

About 90 percent of what we grow is vegetables, the rest is flowers. This church is a living sanctuary, a place to belong, a place of community. God’s love is made visible as people are fed in body, mind and spirit.”

“Eco-friendly teaching represents a new spiritual imagination of how to live well in the world,” observes Bass.

“Faith makes a difference.”

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consciouseating

SWEETLY VEGAN

No-Bake Holiday Treats Worth Celebrating

by Judith Fertig

“

V

isions of sugar plums” have been part of holiday mindsets since the advent of Clement Moore’s classic 19th-century poem commonly known as ’Twas the Night Before Christmas.

We love to give and receive special treats and our tastes are evolving.

Instead of yesteryear’s sugary bonbons loaded with calories that we’ve come to regret, today’s preferred confections focus more on naturally sweet dried fruits, best-quality chocolate, healthful coconut and crunchy nuts. Vegan, gluten-free delicacies from chefs and culinary experts the world over help us celebrate the season in a deliciously healthy way, including those we highlight this month.

“Christmas isn’t Christmas without a traditional pudding,” says Chef Teresa Cutter, author of Purely Delicious. Cutter is founder and director of The Healthy Chef company, in Sydney, Australia, which creates functional foods for taste and optimal health.

Her no-bake desserts such as miniature Christmas puddings and carrot cake take only minutes to make.

Emily Holmes, a Queensland, Australia, wellness coach who blogs at Conscious-Foodie.com, says her favorite is Holmes’ Chocolate Cherry Mini-Cupcakes. She serves them with a pot of peppermint tea.

Houston-based Joshua Weissman is the author of The Slim Palate Paleo Cookbook and blogs at SlimPalate. com. He shares his philosophy on holiday treats: “My first thought is that I don’t want to feel guilty after eating it. My second is that I still want it to taste and look good.” His Almond Butter Pumpkin Pie Truffles fit the festive bill.

In New York City, noted vegan cookbook author and Pastry Chef Fran Costigan is an expert in all things chocolate, including her Chocolate Orange Sesame Truffles. “When you make something really delicious with real ingredients, your mouth knows it, your brain knows it, your body knows it. You feel satisfied,” she says.

Judith Fertig blogs at AlfrescoFood AndLifestyle.blogspot.com from Overland Park, KS. natural awakenings

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No-Bake Festive Vegan Desserts invert the pudding and remove the plastic wrap.

Melt white chocolate in a small bowl set over a simmering pot of water.

Spoon a little white chocolate over the tops of the puddings if desired and garnish with goji berries, fresh cherries or another fanciful topper.

Teresa Cutter’s Healthy Christmas Puddings Yields: 6 to 8 small puddings 8 oz fresh pitted dates—approximately 10 to 15 dates, depending on their size Zest from 1 orange 9 oz dried apricots, chopped 1½ cups almond meal/ground almonds 1 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract 1 tsp ground cinnamon ¼ tsp ground nutmeg ¼ tsp ground ginger 1 to 2 Tbsp orange juice 3 oz white chocolate, melted, for decoration (optional) Combine dates, orange zest, apricots, vanilla, ground almonds, cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger in a food processor.

Process until mixture is combined and looks like fine crumbs.

Spoon the mixture into a large bowl.

Add the orange juice, and then mix again. Pudding mix should come together when lightly hand-squeezed.

Divide into 6 small puddings. Line the base of 6 small decorative molds with plastic wrap and firmly press the puddings into them.

Once firmly packed in the mold, 16

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Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Serve puddings with chilled mango coconut custard.

Mango Coconut Custard 1 mango, chopped ½ cup coconut milk Juice from ½ orange Combine all ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth. Serve chilled with the puddings.

¼ tsp sea salt 1 cup (6½ oz) of 12 large fresh dates, pitted ½ cup (3 oz) dried chopped apricots or pineapple (sulfur-free) 2 large raw carrots, grated Zest from 1 orange 2 tsp vanilla bean paste Combine walnuts, flaxseed, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, orange zest and sea salt into a food processor and run it until mixed and finely chopped. Add dates and apricots. Process again until thoroughly mixed.

Add grated raw carrot and vanilla and then process again until combined. The mix should now form a nice dough.

Spoon into a bowl. Add and kneed oats through the raw carrot cake mixture.

Press cake firmly into a 6-inch round baking dish lined with parchment paper.

Refrigerate until ready to serve, allowing at least 2 hours for the cake to rest.

It will keep in the refrigerator for about a week.

Enjoy as is or garnish with macadamia nut cream, a drizzle of honey and walnuts.

Note: Other raw nuts can substitute for walnuts—try pecans, almonds or macadamia nuts.

Teresa Cutter’s No-Bake Carrot Cake Yields: 16 servings 2½ cups (9½ oz) shelled walnuts 1 Tbsp ground flaxseed or whole chia seeds ½ cup (2 oz) rolled oats (or gluten-free almond meal) 1 tsp ground cinnamon ¼ tsp ground ginger ¼ tsp ground nutmeg

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Macadamia Nut Cream Combine 1 cup of raw cashew nuts or macadamia nuts with ½ cup of orange juice or coconut water and a little vanilla. Blend in a high-speed blender like a Vitamix until smooth and creamy.

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

Fran Costigan’s Chocolate Orange Sesame Truffles Yields: 20 to 24 (1-inch) truffles This creamy chocolate truffle has a slightly chewy texture with a coating for color and crunch. Raw tahini is sweeter than when its roasted and either kind is good.

Yields: 2 dozen mini-cupcakes Cake 1 cup raw, shelled, skinned nuts (such as almonds) 1 /3 cup cacao powder 4 fresh dates, pitted Filling 2 cup shredded coconut 1 cup dried cherries 6 fresh dates, pitted ¼ cup coconut cream ¼ tsp vanilla powder Pinch of sea salt Topping 3½ oz melted dark chocolate Process nuts and cacao powder in a food processor until the nuts are finely ground and the mixture is fully combined. Slowly add the dates until the mixture sticks together.

Press the mixture into the bottom parts of a 24-cup mini muffin pan. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.

Process filling ingredients in a food processor until well combined. Spoon the filling onto the cupcake base in the muffin cups and then top with melted dark chocolate.

Place into the refrigerator to set, where it also stores well until served.

Place the chocolate in a small heatproof bowl.

Mix the orange zest and juice and agave in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat just to a boil.

Reduce the heat to low and add the tahini, whisking vigorously. The mixture will thicken immediately. Don’t be concerned if it looks broken or curdled; it’ll smooth out with whisking.

Simmer the mixture for 30 seconds until it’s shiny and smooth. Remove from heat and wait about 30 seconds until it’s no longer steaming and then pour it over the chocolate.

Cover the bowl with a plate. Wait 1 minute and then stir until the chocolate is completely melted. Note: The ganache will not be perfectly smooth.

Cool to room temperature, stirring a few times using a silicone spatula.

Spoon into a small shallow container and refrigerate uncovered about 2 hours until the ganache is firm. The ganache can be covered and refrigerated at this point for up to 1 week.

Photo by Steve Legato

Emily Holmes’ Chocolate Cherry Mini-Cupcakes

Truffle Ganache 4 oz dark fair trade chocolate (70 to 72 percent), finely chopped Finely minced zest of half a medium orange 3 Tbsp orange juice ¼ cup agave syrup 1 Tbsp raw or roasted tahini, stirred 1½ Tbsp white sesame seeds, lightly toasted 1½ Tbsp black sesame seeds, lightly toasted Shape Truffle Centers Remove the ganache from the refrigerator. Use one spoon to scoop out 1-inch pieces of ganache and another to push it off the spoon into the container. When half the ganache has been used, roll into logs about 1-inch long, washing and drying hands as needed. (If at any time the ganache becomes too soft to shape, refrigerate until cold before proceeding.)

Cover and refrigerate the truffle centers 15 to 25 minutes to set, before final shaping and finishing with the sesame seed coating.

Truffle Coating Mix the sesame seeds in a small bowl.

Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons on the bottom of a shallow container.

Put a few logs at a time into the bowl of sesame seeds and roll until lightly coated. Pinch the ends to form the oval quenelle (football) shape.

Place the finished truffles in the refrigerator to set for 35 to 45 minutes.

Adapted from Vegan Chocolate, by Fran Costigan, used with permission.

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AWAKENING TO SPIRIT Prayer and Meditation Heal and Free Us

by Richard Davenport

By its intimate connection with divine love, Spirit infuses human experience with qualities of amazing grace—unexpected clarity, vision, wisdom, peace, compassion, emotional release, inspirational epiphanies, deep understanding and comprehensive healing of mind, body and soul.

W

hile society abounds with scientific research, products and practices that promise to enhance our mind or body and the mind-body connection, without Spirit in the mix, neither rises to its full potential. A heart open to a higher power exponentially multiplies the effects of this crucial connection.

“Just as a candle spreads light in a darkened room, people who are living in-Spirit give off a higher energy that can bring light to our hearts and minds. In

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other words, we can be inspired just by being in their presence,” according to renowned bestselling author Wayne Dyer, Ph.D.

Experiential, non-verbal and lifechanging encounters with the unbounded power and presence of Spirit in prayer and meditation are difficult to analyze in the same way as mind-body science. However, Dyer points to the works and outcomes of Spirit as visible evidence of how it lifts us up.

We see individuals with rapturous hearts sending out signals that they love the world and everyone in it. Those that live in Spirit tend to see the world as a friendly place, are at peace with themselves, appear to be open and accepting rather than judgmental and harsh, and often report being healed of all sorts of diseases, relationship challenges, career fluctuations and questions of purpose and direction. They attest to how Spirit shines a triumphant light in the midst of dark nights of the soul, redefining the essence of life itself and declaring us worthy in our innermost reaches.

Personal Healing

When a 19-year-old woman entered basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, in San Antonio, Texas, and was undergoing initial medical and psychological screening, she was identified as having body and mind issues that would require her to be separated from the service. These problems included organ failures and spinal misalignment, as well as severe consequences of an emotionally abusive upbringing. It was determined that she could not handle the physical and

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mental demands of military life. Because the policy was to not treat such problems if identified upon entering the service, authorities allowed her to remain in training until her separation from the Air Force could be processed.

The woman was impressed and also distressed by the finality of the verdict and assessment tools used by mind and body experts among the medical staff. In talking with a chaplain on the base, she came to understand that she could choose to appeal her case to another jurisdiction, a “higher” court of Spirit. Focusing on the voice of divine love, she grew to see Spirit as more than a higher power. She saw Spirit as a higher authority. She surrendered to divine love’s authority as ultimate law, supremely qualified to reorder her whole being. She trusted that aligning with spiritual power could change her view of her identity and the seemingly inescapable consequences of genetics, environment and human history denying her desire to serve her country in this way.

Listening to a higher witness testifying on her behalf and identifying her authentic being as the magnificent expression of the magnificent Creator, she felt encouraged to the point that her mind and body stopped arresting her progress and became more effective servants, responding with greater freedom and joy. One limitation after another fell away, and the military and medical authorities seemed pleased with her progress as she neared completion of training. Finally, performing a mile-and-a-half run within a required time remained the only obstacle to graduation, and she was still 45 seconds too slow.

This helpful passage from the Hebrew prophet Isaiah became central to her prayer and meditation as she approached her last running attempt: Young people will get tired;

strapping young men will stumble

and fall.

But those who trust in the Eternal One will regain their strength.

They will soar on wings as eagles.

They will run—never winded, never weary.

To feel Spirit’s presence, we must surrender our own sense of how it will work, its timeline and the impact on our ego or status quo.

As with anything worthwhile, conscientious practice is essential.

They will walk—never tired, never faint. ~Isaiah 40: 30-31 (The Voice)

She passed her final attempt with 18 seconds to spare, running on eagles’ wings.

So, how can we all discern such a divine witness to our original authentic being amidst loud testimony of all the voices and labels shouting in our head and body, including those imposed by others?

Prayer and Meditation

There are two approaches to listening to the voice within, whether we name it God, higher power, Spirit, grace, Eternal One, or divine love or Love.

Complementary, rather than mutually exclusive, both approaches require a capacity, gained through patient practice, of quieting the inner and outer chatter and learning to hear that which calls us to be more than what human experience suggests is possible. It’s who we are in the eyes of grace.

Sanford C. Wilder, of Grafton, Illinois, author of Listening to Grace, offers personal growth and development programs through EducareUnlearning. com that encourage prayer and meditation that emphasize listening. He practices both approaches and makes distinctions between them.

“When I pray, I am directing my thoughts toward God, listening and often affirming what I know to be divinely true. I am yearning to surrender my will and affections in conscious connection with the divine such that I or another receives a blessing,” shares Wilder. In such prayerful listening, he hopes to gain something, often a new insight and corresponding manifestation.

“When I meditate, my intention is to sacrifice every thought, concept, image and feeling to God, the only consciousness. I trust that listening and observing with nonattachment helps me release conscious and unconscious conditioned thought patterns permeated by a human sense of self.” Through meditative listening, he hopes to release everything rather than receive anything, accepting that everyone is equipped and able to be open to, witness and experience nonstop blessings.

Helen Mathis has been an educator in the Philippines and Swaziland as well as the U.S., including an instructor of religion at Principia College, near St. Louis; she is now part of a Centering Prayer Circle in Stockton, California. She explains that centering prayer may be seen as a hybrid that embraces both prayer and meditation, nourishing what’s beneath the preoccupied self to awaken a deeper and vastly more authentic self.

Mathis appreciates what Cynthia Bourgeault explores in her book Centering Prayer and Inner Awakening, that, “This confusion between small self and the larger Self… [the] ‘True Self,’ ‘Essential Self’ or ‘Real I’—is the core illusion of the human condition, and penetrating this illusion is what awakening is all about.”

Like Bourgeault, Mathis believes that it’s not about the absence of thoughts so much as detaching from our thoughts, trusting that we can let

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Through conscious listening we discover that our true nature—as witnessed by Spirit—though sometimes obscured from view, is never altered from its original beauty and wholeness. ~Helen Mathis

Dwelling in Spirit

go and be safe, consent to surrender human will and forgo personal agendas. Only then can spiritual sense come into play.

“The goal is to awaken to, open to and get in touch with our innermost being and Spirit,” Mathis affirms.

“Clearly, centering prayer assumes we each have a spiritual awareness of the divine within us that acts, as Bourgeault puts it, as ‘a kind of interior compass whose magnetic north is always fixed on God.’”

Core Shift

We often approach a Spirit dimension with the attitude of “what it can do for me.” The higher practice that mystics and other deep thinkers of various faith traditions ultimately arrive at instead centers on transforming our whole self to align with Spirit’s purpose for us, which changes everything.

Reverend Dr. Michael Beckwith, founder of the New Thought Agape Spiritual Center, in Los Angeles, and a spiritual mentor to Oprah Winfrey, believes, “The relationship we have with the infinite is more about how we are to serve it than it is to serve us.”

Beckwith describes three primary stages of realizing the power and purpose of divine Spirit expressed as our spirit. The first is that of a victim (feeling powerless, unable to effect change). The second is when an individual learns the existence of universal law that responds to our thinking, emotions and attitude; we learn how to use it to stabilize life structures and demonstrate health and well-being.

“Ultimately, in stage three, we become a vehicle of life in service to 20

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life. Instead of using the law, the law uses us. Life fulfills its own nature through us,” he says. “All of life is conspiring for our freedom, liberation, wholeness and health.”

He urges us not to stop and stagnate at stage two, using divine laws only to manifest personal conveniences, stuff and even people for our use; this can hijack views of abundance into materialism and consumerism. He quips, “We are not here to go shopping.”

Grace and Spirit work in us, through us and between us, yet we can’t simply summon them up or outline their outcomes. To feel Spirit’s presence, we

must surrender our own sense of how it will work, its timeline and the impact on our ego or status quo. As with anything worthwhile, conscientious practice is essential.

Life, defined by Spirit, gives fresh strength and impetus to mind and body. All three are vital elements of the dance of life.

Richard Davenport is a spiritual life educator (HigherGroundForLife.com) and the founding executive director of an inclusive nationwide Bible and spiritual life community (BibleAndSpiritualLife. org). Now based in St. Louis, MO, he is a retired Air Force chaplain, having served at Lackland and other U.S. Air Force bases on three continents.

FIVE WAYS TO PRAY FROM THE HEART

by Richard Davenport

P

rayer from a heart willing to surrender, change, learn, grow and bless others works to keep us centered on pure motives like wellness, wholeheartedness and compassion. Such prayer can help us progress spiritually.

These five forms of prayer, found in the Bible, have a universal application to any spiritual practice. Although differing in their approach, all share the purpose of creating a fuller mindfulness of our true identity and relationship to the divine, while enhancing our capacity to bless all creation. If we are not feeling the desired breakthroughs using one form, perhaps the one most familiar or comfortable to us, we might do well to explore others.

Praise – a posture of adoration, honoring and surrender to a power, vision, and authority greater than our own.

Thanksgiving – or better yet, for its consistency and permeating of our whole self, thanks-living. The garden of our spirit is enriched by embracing a gratitude attitude in all we do.

Petition – a relational posture that opens our heart as we learn to ask for help, to seek perspective beyond a limited self, beyond a smaller, egodriven orientation.

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Intercession – praying for others; blessing, honoring and cherishing them as God sees them. When we feel burdened and blocked by our own trials, expressing empathy and compassion for others can unlock our heart and mind. We can lovingly witness the true nature of those that are seemingly tangled in forces blocking or opposing their higher good.

Affirmation – release and rest in divine authority, acknowledging the uni-verse as literally one song reflecting the singular harmony that Spirit knows and is unfolding in every moment to meet our need in forms we can see and feel right now.

fitbody

Calf Stretch

Airplane Yoga Six Easy Stretches Ease the Journey

Upper Body Stretch

by Cynthia Bowman

T

he majority of the symptoms we can experience during flying—stiffness, poor circulation and swollen feet—are due to lack of movement rather than the altitude or pressurized cabin air. Knowing this can make healthy flying easier.

Drinking lots of water and moving about and stretching every two to three hours on long flights is key; trips to the bathroom naturally help fulfill this. We also can keep blood from collecting in our lower extremities by finding a way to elevate our legs and feet periodically. Wiggle all 10 toes, shift positions and go for these six discreet airplane yoga stretches.

Etiquette tip: Do the first two stretches at the back of the plane with adequate space and a wall to lean on. Don’t do these in the aisle; hanging on to someone’s seat back rocks it and can be annoying.

A quad stretch involves the shoulders, upper legs, calves and ankles, while elevating each foot and getting the blood moving. Hang on to a wall, grab an ankle and bring the heel as close to the butt as possible. Then rotate the ankle in a circular motion. Do this as long as it feels worth doing, and then switch arms and legs.

A calf stretch is a simple way to target calf and hamstring muscles, as well as ankles. Stand facing a wall, placing both hands Quad Stretch

Neck Stretch

Twisting the Torso

Bending Forward

at shoulder height on the wall for balance, elbows bent. Take one foot forward and rest it on its heel, with toes pointing up and resting on the wall. Lean forward to the point of feeling a good stretch in the calf.

Stretch 30 seconds per foot, gradually going deeper into the pose after a few breaths.

Etiquette tip: The next four stretches can be done in an airplane seat or in the back of the plane.

The upper body stretch targets wrists, hands, arms, shoulders, back and the upper body in general. Sit upright with feet firmly planted on the floor. Lift arms up and interlace fingers before turning palms to face the ceiling. Relax the shoulders and neck. The arms shouldn’t be covering the ears and can be adjusted by moving them a few inches forward or back. Tall individuals may need to bend their elbows, which still allows for stretching of the upper body.

Neck stretches release tension and stiffness by tilting the head from side-to-side. Don’t make circular motions, as they can cause neck and spine compression. If holding the head to assist a deeper stretch, be considerate of neighbors by pointing the raised elbow forward to cradle the neck instead of resting it on a seatmate.

Twisting the torso benefits both the spine and back muscles.

Yogis believe that twisting motions also massage internal organs. While twisting, hang on to the armrest with both hands and sit as upright as possible, with legs together and feet firmly planted. Don’t bounce into the pose or shift or lift buttocks off the seat, but make slow, fluid movements.

Bending forward while seated gives the back, neck and legs a good, deep stretch.

All of these movements work well while we’re in the air and are equally useful on road trips, in the office or whenever we need a break.

Cynthia Bowman is a freelance writer in Los Angeles, CA, who specializes in travel, culture and lifestyle topics. Visit JoyJournist.com.

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healthykids

Generous Pint-Sized Givers Teaching Kids How to Care and Share

by Jennifer Jacobson

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mong parent’s greatest rewards is seeing their children grow up to be productive, contributing members of society, including knowing how to give back and enrich the communities in which they live. Children can start participating in the giving process as toddlers. Having them observe regular charitable acts can make a strong impression and catalyze later independent initiatives.

Learning how to give and developing the associated skill set is a lifelong journey. Giving becomes a way of life—of looking at the world and determining how to help the causes they feel passionate about. Here’s how to take those crucial first steps.

Ask kids how they’d like to help. If giving to a cause is new to the household, explain that the family has many opportunities. Then engage children in a conversation about the general areas they may feel strongly about supporting—perhaps individuals or families in need, animals or wildlife habitat—and start a list of those that the family is interested in.

Next, start researching related local organizations, facilities and institutions, and matching them to the topics on the list. Ideas may include food kitchens, pet shelters and animal rescues, nature parks, senior citizens’ residences, camps for lowincome

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or physically or mentally challenged children, zoos, museums, aquariums and local libraries.

Make a game plan. Get creative about how to actually help the selected causes. Talk it through together, map out activities—like visiting, donating funds or materials or participating in fundraising efforts—and post the results somewhere at home that is highly visible. “Gamify” it to some degree with tasks that turn into goals that turn into accomplishments that result in chits.

Quick tasks can make a big difference. Clear the clutter. Every six to 12 months, launch an all-family household closet cleaning day that includes the toy chest and maybe the garage.

Add nonperishable healthy food items they’ve picked out while grocery shopping. Make a “donate box” positioned where kids can add to it and deliver the donations often, even if it’s small.

Find ways to raise money for donations. Organize a family or neighborhood yard sale or organic bake sale that involves kids at all stages of the project, and give all or a portion of the proceeds to a selected charity.

Associate getting with giving. For birthdays and holidays, include a handwritten “certificate of giving” that specifies the amount of money available for them to gift to their favorite

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charity. Take the child to the charity site to make the monetary donation in person, if possible. For non-local organizations, write a check and have the child include a letter with their thoughts and mail it.

Volunteer to do community service. Public gardens need weeding, historic buildings need painting and food banks need hands. Find goodwill tasks that are age-appropriate and engaging.

Grow the mindset. Tell real-life stories about kids or groups of kids that have found creative ways to give back. Encourage empathy by sharing appropriate stories of struggle. Ask kids, “How would you want people to help you in this situation?” Explain the action the family is taking and the resulting benefit to the recipient.

The conversation might be, “We don’t need to store all this stuff when someone else could really use it.” Or, “I bet there is a kid out there who would really like playing with this toy.

I know you used to love it, but how about if you pass it along to someone else so they can enjoy it as much as you have?” Keep the focus on the people in need and your child’s ability to share an experience through an item.

Establishing an impermanent connection to material things can help kids understand the importance of nurturing relationships over acquiring goods.

Develop a language of giving in the household by creating opportunities to incorporate it into regular conversation. Appropriate comments could share concepts such as seeing ourselves as stewards of the planet and the things we think we own; it’s our duty to help those in need when we have abundance; and if there is ever a time when we are without, we hope that others will think of us and help us.

Teaching children how their thoughts, words and actions impact those around them is a lesson that bears repeating.

Jennifer Jacobson lives in Seattle and has served on the boards of several influential nonprofits and other organizations focused on conservation, education and community.

healingways

HEAVENLY SCENTS How to Make Your Own Natural Oil Fragrances

Naturally Safe Scents

by Kathleen Barnes

A

whiff of sweetness can communicate a personal signature of tranquility, alertness or romance, or it can cause a bout of miserable sneezing, wheezing or nausea for those in the vicinity and even the unwitting wearer.

Commercial Chemicals

and body wash include nearly any ingredient under the term fragrance without actually listing the chemical.”

Companies that manufacture personal care products are required by law to list the ingredients they use, but fragrances and trade-secret formulas are exempt.

What’s known as a dirty little secret in the fragrance industry is the unlabeled presence of toxic chemicals not only in perfumes, but in any personal care product that includes a scent. Lab tests commissioned by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics and analyzed by the EWG confirm the presence of parabens that interfere with hormone production, cancer-causing phthalates, and synthetic musks that have been linked to hormone disruption, among many other ills.

“When you see ‘fragrance’ on a personal care product label, read it as ‘hidden chemicals,’” warns the Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit watchdog Environmental Working Group (EWG). “A major loophole in the [U.S.] Food and Drug Administration’s federal law lets manufacturers of products like shampoo, lotion

“Opting for natural scents from organic essential oils not only offers a toxinfree alternative, the oils’ aromatherapy benefits have time-proven therapeutic value,” suggests Dorene Petersen, president and founder of the American College of Healthcare Sciences, in Portland, Oregon.

Recent research from the Pontificia Universidade Catolica, in Brazil, confirms that lavender oil has antiinflammatory, antioxidant and painrelieving properties similar to those of a

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mild-dose narcotic. Plus, it smells heavenly, says botanical perfumer Roxana Villa, of Woodland Hills, a Californiabased spokesperson for the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy.

“Considering the part of the plant used will give you an idea of its therapeutic value,” says Villa. “A root base will be good for grounding. Since bark is like skin, oils such as birch will benefit skin and muscles. Oils from flowers are excellent for anything related to the head and mind.”

Oregano and cinnamon oils have powerful antifungal properties, even against Candida-type fungi resistant to prescription drugs, according to Brazilian research from Universidade Federal. A groundbreaking study from the Slovak University of Technology, in Slovakia, even suggests that rosemary oil can kill cancer cells.

These are all scents that can be the foundations of do-it-yourself perfumes.

Customized Blends

“It’s fun to experiment with organic essential oils and create that unique blend that becomes a personal signature,” says Charlynn Avery, an aromatherapist with Aura Cacia, in Norway, Iowa. She explains that essential oils have three basic “notes” and blending them correctly will result in a fragrance suited to last throughout the day.

“The base note is heavier and lasts the longest. Patchouli, vetiver, sandal-

wood, cedarwood and jasmine hang around longer in the atmosphere and on the wearer,” she explains. Blending the base with a slightly lighter middle note like lavender, rosemary or clary sage and a light and shortlasting top note like orange, lime or peppermint will create a complex and pleasing blend.

“That’s the beauty of the art of it,” says Avery. “You can create synergistic blends that harmonize and complement the attributes of each to such an extent that you may not be able to detect the scents of the individual oils.”

There are no hard and fast rules, but our experts offer a few guidelines for creating our own unique blends that will be well-received as holiday gifts.

Use a base of oil like jojoba or sweet almond to create a perfumed oil.

Note that oils undiluted by a carrier can burn the skin.

For oil-based blends, use a ratio of 50 drops of bottom note oil, 30 drops of a middle note and 20 drops of a top note in two ounces of carrier oil.

Another option is to use an alcohol base of either isopropyl rubbing alcohol or 85-proof vodka to make a spray perfume; the alcohol will evaporate quickly. Alcohol-based blends generally last longer, especially with fragile citrus oils.

A usual ratio is 10 to 20 drops of essential oil per ounce of alcoholbased carrier.

The 1-2-3s of Blending Oils Base Notes Middle Notes Top Notes sandalwood lavender orange jasmine bergamot lemon myrrh geranium grapefruit vetiver rosemary eucalyptus patchouli tea tree lime cedarwood clary sage peppermint A general ratio of 50 percent base note oils to 30 percent middle notes and 20 percent top notes is recommended.

Source: courtesy of AuraCacia.com

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GIFT BLEND FOR MEN Western cultures value “manly” Earth scents like sandalwood and cedarwood, while in other cultures, flowery scents are acceptable for men.

An appealing woodsy blend for an American male blends cedarwood, clary sage and lime.

Oil-based blends are ready to use almost immediately. Alcohol-based blends should age a week or two at least and will become more strongly scented in time.

Store fragrances in bottles in a dark, cool place. Bottles with tiny rollon caps are commercially available.

“It’s very much trial and error to arrive at a preferred scent, so be creative and keep careful notes of experiments and improve on them as you gain experience,” counsels Avery. “If you crinkle your nose at patchouli, you probably won’t like an oil blend with it, either. Choose scents you like.”

Kathleen Barnes is author of numerous natural health books including Food Is Medicine. Connect at Kathleen Barnes.com.

Experience is the teacher of all things. ~Julius Caesar

calendarofevents NOTE: All calendar events must be received by Dec. 10 (for Jan. issue) and adhere to our guidelines. To submit listings, check for calendar guidelines, updates and cancellations, visit GrandStrandHealthyLiving.com.

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

NOVEMBER 27-DECEMBER 20 A Christmas Carol at Atlantic Stage−Thur-Sat 7:30 pm, Sun 3pm. By Christopher Schiaro, adapted from the book by Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol tells the story of the redemption of a human soul. The play follows Scrooge, a lonely miser, who finds a second chance to become a loving, generous human being. For all ages. $17.50-27.50. Atlantic Stage at Myrtle Beach Mall, Hwy 17N and Hwy 22, rear mall entrance near Carmike Cinemas. Info: 877-287-8587, AtlanticStage.com.

NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 4 All Beings Confluence w/Martha Cole. Creating a new human/earth relationship of reverence and reciprocity in our world, make an 8 to 12-foot sheer panel using paint and applied fabric. These panels will depict a life form or species, honoring its place in the web of life. They will be hung in the chapel, providing a visual inter-relatedness, widening our embrace of the whole. All materials provided. Springbank Retreat for Eco-Spirituality & the Arts, 1345 Springbank Rd., Kingstree. $450 fee includes lodging & meals. 843-382-9777, SpringbankRetreat.org.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1 Open Door Reiki Share w/Eileen Foose, RN & Tami Chatfield LMT−7-9pm. (1st Tues) A gathering of like minds for mini Reiki treatments and a sharing circle. Enjoy the energy work at Unity. Free will love offering to assist the Care Team of Unity. Unity Myrtle Beach, 1270 Surfside Industrial Park Dr, Surfside, 843 238-8516, UnityMyrtleBeach.org.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2

as a collaboration between the North Inlet-Winyah Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve and the Waccamaw Library, 41 St Paul Pl, Pawleys Isl. NorthInlet.sc.edu/news.html.

Kriya Yoga Circle w/Paula Kenion MS–6-7pm.

Monthly Meditation Gathering, (1st Thurs). Learn easy meditation techniques, devotional chanting, and other yoga practices for personal and spiritual growth. Will meditate in chairs for comfort, or bring mats/blankets if preferred. Murrells Inlet Community Center, 4450 Murrells Inlet Rd. $3 per class. Register at GTcounty.org 843-545-3651.

Info: Paula, 843-650-4538.

DECEMBER 4-6 The Beauty Way: A Widening Embrace w/ Marya Grathwohl. Explore fresh wisdom of recent Scripture scholarship & Earth’s evolutionary revelations. From reflection & sharing, enliven commitment to contribute to the future of all life. As we gather in the promise of circle, opening ourselves into singing, simple ritual, & reflection, we will move through colorful panels from the previous workshop, celebrating a more intimate knowing of the love that moves within all – widening our embrace. Springbank Retreat for Eco-Spirituality & the Arts, 1345 Springbank Rd., Kingstree. $275 fee includes lodging & meals, 843-382-9777, SpringbankRetreat.org.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5 Atalaya Holiday Celebration–11am-4pm. Held at Atalaya, the former winter home of Archer and Anna Huntington. Decorated rooms, live music, holiday crafts for sale, children’s craft room, refreshments. $3 plus Park Admission (ages 6 and

up). Info: Karen Korszeniewski, 843-650-6666 korsz@sccoast.net.

Holiday Celebration at Goodwellness−Noon3pm. Goodwellness Therapeutic Massage and Personal Training Holiday Open House. Refreshments provided in the training studio by Brother Shuckers Fish House. Live music, great food. Collecting charitable donations for Blue Star Mothers of Coastal Carolina. Goodwellness Therapeutic Massage and Personal Training, 4999 Carolina Forest Boulevard, Myrtle Beach. 843-236-9811 or visit Goodwellness.com.

Y i n t o Ya n g Wo r k s h o p w / M a r i b e t h MacKenzie−2:30-4:30pm. Balance your Yin and Yang energies, focusing on Ujjayi Pranayama, the creation of a mindful, focused, balanced breath, ending with a long savasana to let the practice settle into bodies, minds, and spirits. Jennifer Uhler, LMT will provide hands-on to help to soften into the postures. Inlet Yoga, 637 D Bellamy Ave, Murrells Inlet, Info: Maribeth, 843-655-6272, InletYogaStudio.com.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6 The Gospel of Enlightenment Series, “Revelation & Redemption” w/Rev Margaret Hiller, LUT−11am. 10wk Sunday Series based on the book The Third Jesus by Deepak Chopra. All are welcome. Love Offering. “Connecting the Dots” conversation group meets 12:30-1:30PM after Sunday service. Potluck also follows service (all dishes welcome, vegan and vegetarian also appreciated). To join the Dots conversation, get your potluck lunch and meet in Activities Room for dialog & sharing of ideas/insights from the Sunday

Colorful Diet Workshop w/Linda Sacchetti− Noon-1pm. Learn to create healthy eating habits to maximize your health with colorful vegetables and fruits will give you the phytonutrients that you need. Improve health, energy, slow aging, reduce disease. Inlet Nutrition, 3556B Old Kings Hwy, Murrells Inlet Info and RSVP, Linda Sacchetti Inlet: 843-424-9586.

Unity Healing & Prayer Service w/Olivia Rose−6:30-7:30pm. (1st Wed) Meditation, prayer, hands-on-healing. Love offering. Unity Peace Chapel, Unity of Myrtle Beach, 1270 Surfside Industrial Park Dr, Surfside, 843-238-8516, UnityMyrtleBeach.org.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3 The Wisdom of Kermit the Frog−4-5pm. Is it easy being green? Paper towel or cloth napkin?

E-reader or paperback? Organic produce from California or non-organic labeled but local? Will offer info and tips on how to assess the environmental impacts of our choices, moving toward a greener lifestyle may be easier than you think.

Waccamaw Library Auditorium. A series created

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message topic. Love Offering. Unity of Myrtle Beach, 1270 Surfside Industrial Park Dr, Surfside, 843-238-8516, UnityMyrtleBeach.org.

Vinyasa Workshop w/Dawn Yager–1-3pm. Will focus on unlocking and stabilizing the pelvis.

Will explore mobility and strength of a healthy pelvic connection. $20 Pre-registration required.

Shanti South studio at Litchfield Exchange, behind Applewood Pancakes, 14361 Ocean Hwy, PI. 843467-5444, ShantiMyrtleBeach.com.

Historic Conway Holiday Tour of Homes−3-7pm.

Features 5 eclectic homes in Conway's Historic District, dating from 1905 tudor revival to lowcountry bungalow and mid-century ranch. A walkable tour and opportunity to explore the Historic District in festive décor. Tickets are $15 at First United Methodist Church at 1101 5th Ave, Conway. By Conway Downtown Alive and the Conway Pilot Club. Info: 843 248 6260, ConwayAlive.com.

Raw Vegan Holiday Treats w/Sexy Raw Vegan−4:30-8pm. A hands-on participatory class making healthy holiday gourmet raw vegan delights for your family and guests. Drew McCall Burke, the Sexy Raw Vegan will present delicious holiday low fat raw vegan. Make quick and easy appetizers, soups, and desserts and develop culinary skills with simple combinations of whole raw foods.

Chocolate, mint, carrot cake, Gourmet Kale Chips, caramel, truffles, mousse, and frozen hot coco hemp latte. Preregistration required. 401-441-2199, SexyRawFoodAndFitness.com.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 7 Meditation & Concert w/Bob Sima−6:30pm.

11am. Posi-Music Award Winner, described as Eckhart Tolle with a guitar, who brings musical satsang. Meditation, 6:30pm, concert, 7:30pm.

Suggested donation: $25. Unity of Myrtle Beach, 1270 Surfside Industrial Park Dr, Surfside, 843238-8516, UnityMyrtleBeach.org.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11 New Moon Drum Circle w/Bunni Vaughan Healy– 7-8:30pm. The perfect time for setting intention and drumming is a great way to shoot those intentions toward manifestation. Love Offering . Info: Bunni, 843-333-9930. Love Offering. Unity of Myrtle Beach, 1270 Surfside Industrial Pk Dr, Surfside.

UnityMyrtleBeach.org.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12 Grand Strand Biggest Loser Registration w/Linda Sacchetti. Get Lean in 2016. Register this day for the first program for the new year and the new resolutions to get fit. Do it with a team and get coaching, support and validation. Pre register online or call 843-424-9586, GrandStrandBiggestLoser.com.

Om for the Holidays at Inlet Yoga−2:30-5:30pm.

Ho Ho Omm! Shop for the yogis and loved ones in your life or stop by and enjoy a little holiday cheer. Handmade crafts including candles, jewelry, clothing, cards, decorations, yoga props, massage gift certificates and more. Handmade gifts on sale, made with love. Inlet Yoga, 637 D Bellamy Ave, Murrells Inlet, Info: Maribeth, 843-655-6272, InletYogaStudio.com.

HeartMath w/Joe DiSabatino, M.Ed. −3-4:30pm.

California-based Institute of HeartMath finds the heart operates its own center of intelligence that is separate from and communicates with the brain and the body in four biological and energetic languages, monitoring and influencing their performance. Positive emotional state, even self-induced, improves creative intelligence, problem-solving ability, and relationship capacity. Seminar and instruction. Fee by donation. Yoga in Common, 3062 Deville St, Market Common, MB, 843-839-9636, YogaInCommon.com.

An Outbreak of Peace w/Carolina Master Chorale &Long Bay Symphony−4pm. Concert that tells the true story of the Christmas Eve truce of 1914, when soldiers from both sides joined to celebrate the holiday until dawn. Dazzling original music, traditional carols, soaring solos, and powerful choruses with colorful instrumental accompaniment.

Trinity United Methodist Church, 706 14th Ave S, NMB. Must buy tickets in advance, $20 adult, $15 seniors & vets, $5 student.. 843-444-5774, CarolinaMasterChorale.com.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13 Gospel of Enlightenment Series - “The World as Illusion” w/Rev. M. Hiller−11am. Based on book, The Third Jesus by Deepak Chopra. At 12:30pm, Connecting the Dots–Coffee & Conversation social hour and discussion after the service. Get your coffee and share ideas/insights from the Sunday message topic. Unity of Myrtle Beach, 1270 Surfside Industrial Park Dr, Surfside, 843-238-8516, UnityMyrtleBeach.org.

Beginners Workshop w/Karen–1-3pm. -This class will help those new to yoga understand at a basic level the structure of a yoga practice. $20 Pre-registration required. Shanti South studio at Litchfield Exchange, behind Applewood Pancakes, 14361 Ocean Hwy, PI. 843-467-5444, ShantiMyrtleBeach.com.

An Outbreak of Peace w/Carolina Master Chorale &Long Bay Symphony−4pm. Concert that tells the true story of the Christmas Eve truce of 1914, when

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soldiers from both sides joined to celebrate the holiday until dawn. Dazzling original music, traditional carols, soaring solos, and powerful choruses with colorful instrumental accompaniment. Trinity Church, 3000 N Kings Hwy, MB. Must buy tickets in advance, $20 adult, $15 seniors & vets, $5 student.. 843-444-5774, CarolinaMasterChorale.com.

a comfortable position and will include pranayama.

All levels. $20 Pre-registration required. Shanti South studio at Litchfield Exchange, behind Applewood Pancakes, 14361 Ocean Hwy, PI. 843-4675444, ShantiMyrtleBeach.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15

Unity Candle Lighting Service–7pm. Contemplative Music, Meditation & Peace Prayers. Unity of Myrtle Beach, 1270 Surfside Industrial Park Dr, Surfside, 843-238-8516, UnityMyrtleBeach.org.

Reiki Share at Inlet Yoga−7:30-9pm. A gathering of a Reiki masters and practitioners to welcome the public to experience the healing energies. Reiki is an ancient laying-on of hands healing technique that uses the Universal Life Force Energy to heal, and thus, balancing the subtle energies within our bodies. $20. Inlet Yoga, 637 D Bellamy Ave, Murrells Inlet, Info: Maribeth, 843-655-6272, InletYogaStudio.com.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16 Colorful Diet Workshop w/Linda Sacchetti− Noon-1pm. Learn to create healthy eating habits to maximize your health with colorful vegetables and fruits will give you the phytonutrients that you need. Improve health, energy, slow aging, reduce disease. Nutrition, 3556B Old Kings Hwy, Murrells Inlet Info and RSVP, Linda Sacchetti Inlet: 843-424-9586.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17 Myrtle Beach Human Rights Commission Meeting−4:30pm. Open monthly meeting of the MB Human Rights Commission. (3rd Thurs unless otherwise noted) A free, open, public meeting for all to attend and participate. MB City Services Bldg, Fire Dept. Conf Rm, 921A, N Oak St. (at Mr. Joe White Ave), MB, Hotline: 843-918-1130, HR Dept: 843-918-1114. Facebook.com/HumanRightsMyrtleBeach.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18 Christmas Sing-A-Long w/The Unity Band−7pm.

All are welcome. Unity of Myrtle Beach, 1270 Surfside Industrial Park Dr, Surfside, 843-2388516, UnityMyrtleBeach.org.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19 Winter Garlands w/Rebecca Turk−9:30am-2pm.

Add natural beauty to your holiday display with handcrafted garlands of fresh greenery such as cypress, arborvitae and magnolia. Learn the steps to turn unassuming branches and foliage into beautiful pieces of festive cheer. Create a fragrant and decorative display for the season. Registration is limited to the first 18 participants. A lunch is included. $35 per person. Moore Farms Botanical Garden, 100 New Zion Rd, Lake City. Info: Rebecca Turk at rturk@moorefarmsbg.org or 843-373-8068.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 26 Myrtle Beach Drum Circle w/Rob Jackson 6pm until 9:30pm. An open/free-form and non-facilitated hippie styled drum circle community that has achieved a now very longstanding, historical, and locally renowned recognition. The deep-rooted and fundamental tradition of the community is based on African/Middle Eastern stylized drumming, freeform dance and belly dance, hooping, and other various inter-community variances. No alcohol, smoking. Pets and children must be attended. Free.

Myrtle Beach State Park, Beaver Moon Fireplace Shelter. Facebook: Myrtle Beach Drum Circle.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27

Unity of Myrtle Beach, 1270 Surfside Industrial Park Dr, Surfside, 843-238-8516, UnityMyrtleBeach.org.

lookingforward FRIDAY, JANUARY 1

Anniversary Celebration at Inlet Yoga−all day.

Complimentary classes all morning, raffle drawing, chair massage and other treats. Join Inlet Yoga for the month of January with an unlimited membership for only $30. Inlet Yoga, 637 D Bellamy Ave, Murrells Inlet, Info: Maribeth, 843-655-6272, InletYogaStudio.com.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3 The Gospel of Enlightenment Series, “Unity” w/Rev Margaret Hiller, LUT−11am. 10wk Sunday Series based on the book The Third Jesus by Deepak Chopra. All are welcome. Love Offering. The Annual White Stone Ceremony will take place during the 11am Service. Potluck follows service (all dishes welcome, vegan and vegetarian also appreciated).

Bring extra for anticipated crowds. Unity of Myrtle Beach, 1270 Surfside Industrial Park Dr, Surfside, 843-238-8516, UnityMyrtleBeach.org.

Gospel of Enlightenment Series “Birthing Christ” w/Rev. Margaret Hiller−11am. Based on book, The Third Jesus by Deepak Chopra. The annual Unity Burning Bowl Ceremony takes place during the 11am service. At 12:30pm, Connecting the Dots– Coffee & Conversation social hour and discussion after the service. Get your coffee and share ideas/ insights from the Sunday message topic. Unity of Myrtle Beach, 1270 Surfside Industrial Park Dr, Surfside, 843-238-8516, UnityMyrtleBeach.org.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 5

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 29

Unity Healing & Prayer Service w/Olivia Rose−6:30-7:30pm. (1st Wed) Meditation, prayer, hands-on-healing. Love offering. Unity Peace Chapel, Unity of Myrtle Beach, 1270 Surfside Industrial Park Dr, Surfside, 843-238-8516, UnityMyrtleBeach.org.

Unity LGBT Group Meeting w/Dana Curtin−6:30-8 p.m. (Last Tues ea mo.) All LGBT people welcome. Whether struggling with being gay, lesbian, transgender or with friends or family who are, share conversations within a faith community. Embrace oneness, not secrets. Info: Dana at 415-902-0984, dana@cyvision.com. Unity of Myrtle Beach, 1270 Surfside Industrial Park Dr, Surfside, 843-238-8516, UnityMyrtleBeach.org.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30 Unity Contemplative Service w/Rev. Margaret Hiller, LUT−5:30-6:30pm. 11am. Meditation, both silent and guided, with contemplative readings.

Open Door Reiki Share w/Eileen Foose, RN & Tami Chatfield LMT−7-9pm. (1st Tues) A gathering of like minds for mini Reiki treatments and a sharing circle. Enjoy the energy work at Unity. Free will love offering to assist the Care Team of Unity.

Unity Myrtle Beach, 1270 Surfside Industrial Park Dr, Surfside, 843 238-8516, UnityMyrtleBeach.org.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7 Kriya Yoga Circle w/Paula Kenion MS–6-7pm.

Monthly Meditation Gathering, (1st Thurs). Learn easy meditation techniques, devotional chanting, and other yoga practices for personal and spiritual growth. Will meditate in chairs for comfort, or bring mats/blankets if preferred. Murrells Inlet Community Center, 4450 Murrells Inlet Rd. $3 per class. Register at GTcounty.org 843-545-3651.

Info: Paula, 843-650-4538.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20 “The Power of Intention” w/Guest Speaker Rev Kyle Shiver−11am. From Tybee Spirit Unity of Savannah, author of Solving the Puzzles of Life.

All are welcome. Love Offering. A special workshop “A Metaphysical Christmas w/ Rev. Shiver follows at 1:30. Love Offering. Unity of Myrtle Beach, 1270 Surfside Industrial Park Dr, Surfside, 843-238-8516, UnityMyrtleBeach.org.

Yoga Nidra Workshop w/Dawn Yager–1-2:30.

Guided relaxation that rejuvenates the energy of the entire system of the body. Practiced lying down in

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ongoingevents sunday tuesday Unity Myrtle Beach Sunday Morning Circle w/Susan Boles, LUT & Lesta Sue Hardee–9:3010:30am. Book Study: The Infinite Way by Joel Goldsmith. Unity Myrtle Beach, 1270 Surfside Industrial Park Dr, Surfside, 843-238-8516, UnityMyrtleBeach.org.

Unity Myrtle Beach Celebration Service w/ Rev. Margaret Hiller & Guests–11am. Prayer, meditation, song, messages & family. Music by the Unity Band. Youth programs. Bookstore open 10am-1pm. Unity Myrtle Beach, 1270 Surfside Industrial Park Dr, Surfside, 843-238-8516, UnityMyrtleBeach.org.

monday Focused Hatha w/Claire Liddle−9:30-10:30am.

Class emphasizes anatomical focus on a specific area of the body with attention to alignment details to build flexibility and strength. Students expand postural awareness and understanding to transcend beyond perceived limitations to new possibilities. $15 walk-in, 5 class pass $60, 10 class pass $100, 4 wk unlimited $80, and 2 wk new student class pass $30. Yoga DiVita, Parkway Plaza, 2126 Hwy 9E, G-2, Longs. 843-283-2827, YogaDivita.com.

Doterra Oil Class “All Natural Cleaning” at Modern Cleansing−3:30pm. Make & Take Christmas Crafts, and gifts using doTERRA Essential Oils at Modern Cleansing Wellness. Stocking stuffers, Spa, pets, kids, cleaning products. Make 6 Gifts for $20 plus wrapping. Classes going through Dec 18. Book your own party anytime with 5 or more guests. Modern Cleansing Wellness, 6371 Dick Pond Rd, MB. RSVP & call for info: 843828-4665.

Accountability Weight Loss Challenge w/Inlet Nutrition. Drop in & drop pounds at Inlet Nutrition over the holidays. One time $20 fee. Payout to the top 3 winners, based on % of weight lost. Healthy recipes for the holidays included. (12/8, 15, 22, 29, 1/5). Inlet Nutrition, 3556B Old Kings Hwy, Murrells Inlet Info and RSVP, Linda Sacchetti Inlet: 843-424-9586, GrandstrandBiggestLoser.com.

Quilters Unite! w/Sarah Raphael−10am-Noon.

Simple & easy, no special skills required. Materials provided to make quilts for homeless, hospice, others in need. Info: Sarah, 828-514-8034. Unity Myrtle Beach, 1270 Surfside Industrial Park Dr, Surfside, UnityMyrtleBeach.org.

Free Thinkers AA−5-6pm. Endeavors to maintain a tradition of free expression where all are welcome – believers, agnostics, atheists and all, open to all expressing belief, doubts and disbeliefs. At Unity Myrtle Beach, 1270 Surfside Industrial Park Dr, Surfside, Info: Lewis 843-877-3252.

Introduction to Doterra Essential Oils Class at Modern Cleansing−6:30pm. Make & Take Christmas Crafts, and gifts using doTERRA Essential Oils at Modern Cleansing Wellness. Stocking stuffers, Spa, pets, kids, cleaning products. Make 6 Gifts for $20 plus wrapping. Classes going through Dec 18. Book your own party anytime with 5 or more guests. Modern Cleansing Wellness, 6371 Dick Pond Rd, MB. RSVP & call for info: 843828-4665.

wednesday Free Metabolism Test w/Linda Sacchetti. Find out your body fat %, pounds of body fat, lean body weight & what your targets should be, by individual appt in MI. Info: Linda, 843-424-9586.

Revitalize Your Beauty Free Spa Beauty Facial w/Linda Sacchetti. Defy aging for younger looking skin with antioxidants, aloe vera, and glucosamine.

Includes a light weight clay mask to improve texture, tone, and firming. By individual appt in Murrells Inlet and MB. 843-424-9586.

Bookstore for the Miracle Minded–11am-4pm.

Books on healing, spirituality, personal growth, wellness; metaphysics as well as unique gift items.

Unity Myrtle Beach, 1270 Surfside Industrial Park Dr., Surfside, 843-238-8616, UnityMyrtleBeach.org.

Healing takes courage, and we all have courage, even if we have to dig a little to find it. ~Tori Amos

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Grand Strand Edition

Brown Bag Lunch & Book Group w/Rev. Margaret Hiller & Friends–12:30-1:45 pm. New book Taking the Leap by Pema Chodron. Love Offering.

Unity Myrtle Beach, 1270 Surfside Industrial Park Dr., Surfside, 843-238-8516, UnityMyrtleBeach.org.

Gentle Yoga at Unity w/ April Amoreena−23pm. Gentle class with Certified & Insured Yoga Instructor open to all levels, beginners welcome. $10 per class. Unity of Myrtle Beach, 1270 Surfside Industrial Park Dr, Surfside, 843-238-8516, UnityMyrtleBeach.org.

Ovis Hill Farmers Market-MB w/Charlie Caldwell–3-7pm. Clean and healthy products from a network of local SC farmers: Pasture raised and

GrandStrandHealthyLiving.com

grass fed milk and dairy products, local caught fish, organic veggies, honey, grains, soaps, jams, jellies, maple syrup and more. 714 8th Ave N, MB, 843-992-9447, OvisHillFarm.com.

Doterra Oil Class - Mens & Womens Spa at Modern Cleansing−3:30pm. Make & Take Christmas Crafts, and gifts using doTERRA Essential Oils at Modern Cleansing Wellness. Stocking stuffers, Spa, pets, kids, cleaning products. Make 6 Gifts for $20 plus wrapping. Classes going through Dec 18. Book your own party anytime with 5 or more guests. Modern Cleansing Wellness, 6371 Dick Pond Rd, MB. RSVP & call for info: 843828-4665.

Oneness Blessing w/Susan Boles, LUT, Spiritual Counselor–6:30pm. (Except 1st Wed), Unity Peace Chapel, Love Offering. Unity Myrtle Beach, 1270 Surfside Industrial Park Dr. 843-238-8516, UnityMyrtleBeach.org.

Myrtle Beach Karma Kagyu Tibetan Buddhist Study and Meditation Group w/Andrew Appel– 7:30pm. Intro to Buddhism, book study and basic meditation instruction. Mantra meditation and traditional Tibetan Buddhist chanting practices Chenrezig/Amitabha. Free or donations welcome but not required. Forestbrook area, MB. Info & directions: Andrew, 843 655-8056, simplygoldenevents.wix.com/mbkksg#.

thursday Vinyasa Flow w/Sherrill Bailey−5:45-6:45pm. A creative sequence of yoga poses while connecting with breath. Develop strength and steadiness as heat and energy increase, internally as well as externally.

Cultivate balance, flexibility, and endurance with continual movement. A basic knowledge of yoga poses is beneficial. $15 walk-in, 5 class pass $60, 10 class pass $100, 4 wk unlimited $80, and 2 wk new student class pass $30. Yoga DiVita, Parkway Plaza, 2126 Hwy 9E, G-2, Longs. 843-283-2827, YogaDivita.com.

A Course in Miracles w/Marc Breines–6:308pm. Brienes helped with the first printing of The Course in Miracles and established the first groups worldwide for CIM. Love Offering. Unity Myrtle Beach, 1270 Surfside Industrial Park Dr. Info: 704-309-2415.

Gentle Yoga at Unity w/April Amoreena−7:308:30pm. Gentle class with Certified & Insured Yoga Instructor open to all levels, beginners welcome. $10 per class. Unity of Myrtle Beach, 1270 Surfside Industrial Park Dr, Surfside, 843-238-8516, UnityMyrtleBeach.org.

saturday Doterra Oil Class Focus on Kids and Pets at Modern Cleansing−11am. Make & Take Christmas Crafts, and gifts using doTERRA Essential Oils at Modern Cleansing Wellness. Stocking stuffers, Spa, pets, kids, cleaning products. Make 6 Gifts for $20 plus wrapping. Classes going through Dec 18. Book your own party anytime with 5 or more guests. Modern Cleansing Wellness, 6371 Dick Pond Rd, MB. RSVP & call for info: 843828-4665.

communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email GSPublisher@naturalawakeningsmag.com to request a media kit, or visit our website at GrandStrandHealthyLiving.com.

BODYTALK SPA INDIGO

1601 Oak St, Ste 207, MB Tom Palya, PT, CSCS, CBP 724-366-9813 BodyTalkMyrtleBeach.com

BodyTalk is based on the premise that the body can heal itself as long as the internal lines of communication within us are intact. Stress can cause these internal lines of communication circuits to become disrupted and compromised. Over time, this will lead to a decline in physical, emotional and mental well-being as well as DIS-EASE (disease) within the body. A BodyTalk practitioner will use a subtle form of neuromuscular biofeedback to quickly locate, balance and repair these areas of stress to allow for the fastest possible healing to occur. BodyTalk is a comprehensive healthcare system based on energy medicine that looks to re-synchronize the body’s energy systems to restore optimal health, harmony and vitality. BodyTalk will stimulate the body’s innate ability to heal itself on all levels of the body, mind and spirit.

ENERGY HEALING & AURA READING REV. RENÉE LEWIS, B. MSC, CCMT, CRMT, RT(R)(M)(MR) Bio-Energy Field Therapist Aura Photography Chios Master Teacher Reiki Master Teacher Crystal Therapy Ordained Minister 843-241-0609 InnerLight-OuterLove.com

Renée Lewis brings new modalities to the Grand Strand area with the introduction of Chios Energy Field Healing and Aura Photography Readings.

Renée is also a Reiki Master and member of the International Center for Reiki Training. She specializes in crystals with her energy work and utilizes her medical background in her teaching by incorporating physics and biology for easier comprehension. She teaches certification classes for Reiki and Chios and is available for workshops and private sessions or readings. Meets at Spa Indigo, in Myrtle Beach at 1601 Oak St, Ste #207 and soon at the Loris Holistic Health and Education Center.

NEUROFEEDBACK

HYPNOTHERAPY MAXIMIZED MIND

BRAINCORE NEUROFEEDBACK

Mike Oglesbee, CAH, MPNLP 843-957-6926 MaximizedMind.com

Mike Oglesbee has developed the most powerful and effective system to boost you to success.

Mike utilizes hypnosis, NLP, life coaching, and other traditional psychology methods to provide immediate, positive change within the 90% of the mind known as the subconscious where the root of problems actually exist. Success begins within. Call Mike for a free consultation, or visit MaximizedMind.com for more information.

See ad, page 26.

NATURAL CHILDBIRTH BEACH BABY’S DOULA SERVICES INC

Pat Burrell, RN, CD, (DONA), WCBE, CLC, CHT 843-213-1393 BeachBabys.org

Beach Baby’s provides services to assist families throughout pregnancy, as well as assistance with caring for baby after birth. It provides doula services and baby nurses in Horry, Georgetown and Marion counties. Its services also include rebirthing, wholistic childbirth education and massage. See ad, page 10.

NATUROPATHIC PRACTITIONER STAN GRAVELY, PHD

NATUROPATHIC PRACTITIONER 276-618-8486 DrStanPhD.com DrStanGravely@yahoo.com

Life is supposed to be Fun & Healthy! You can heal your body—naturally. Stan Gravely, PhD, offers many modalities to assist you in your journey to Health & Happiness. Dr. Stan is a spirit, mind and body consultant who has more than 20 years’ experience helping himself and others to be healthy, wealthy, happy and free. In addition, Dr. Stan has authored two books: The Law of Attraction Bible and This Is It! The Ultimate Handbook for Successful Living. He also facilitates weekly workshops on the Law of Attraction Bible in North Myrtle Beach.

800 25th Ave S, Unit A North Myrtle Beach 843-280-7533 671 Jamestown Dr, Ste 208-D Murrells Inlet 844-BRAIN-ON (272-4666) BrainCore.Dianne@gmail.com

BrainCore offers state-of-the-art brain training technology with drug-free, noninvasive treatment and emphasis on quality care with flexible payment options.

Neurofeedback (closely related to biofeedback) focuses on analyzing the pathway of neural signals in order to identify signs of irregular brain function. Once the specialists at BrainCore have pinpointed the exact dysfunction occurring within the brain with a specialized QEEG BrainMap, they can then begin development of a customized program aimed at correcting learning difficulties, anxiety disorders, ADD/ADHD, memory loss and more. Scholarships are available. Dianne Kosto is a board certified BrainCore Trainer, or BCN-T, available to do informational talks/group discussions regarding several topics of interest. Call today to schedule a free consultation.

PSYCHOTHERAPY KENNETH LUX, PHD

Alternative Health Clinic 4810 N Kings Hwy, MB 843-712-2330

Dr. Lux works with individuals and couples. His approach focuses on trauma resolution.

And by trauma he does not mean only major blows and abuses, but also lesser personal shocks, such as humiliations and embarrassments, especially if these have occurred in one’s earlier years. From a spiritual perspective, he also tries to bring the idea of karma into the picture, and calls this karma sensitive psychotherapy. He uses a natural conversational approach that is not based on what is referred to as the medical model with its categories of diseases or illnesses, and has little or no need for psych drugs. Call for a free phone consultation.

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WELLNESS COACH SEXY RAW FOOD AND FITNESS

Plant-Based Health and Wellness Coach Author, Chef and Personal Trainer Murrells Inlet, 401-441-2199 srvCrew@hotmail.com SexyRawFoodAndFitness.com Facebook: the Sexy Raw Vegan 1-217-298-3426 or 1-2-1-RAW-VEGAN

Drew McCall Burke is a Raw Food Coach, Speaker and Author of six books on a Whole Food, Plant-Based Diet, Juice Cleansing and a Best-selling 30-Day Meal Plan, Be a Sexy Raw Vegan in 30 Days. Drew is Certified in Plant-Based Nutrition, has been a Professional Fitness Trainer for more than 20 years, is a Physical Therapy Student, and has helped hundreds of clients learn to eat a clean diet.

The Sexy Raw Vegan (SRV) CREW has hosted transforming Health and Fitness Retreats in Costa Rica; Block Island, R.I; the Outer Banks of N.C.; and New York City. “Our mission is to be the spark in someone’s life to introduce them to an easier and healthier way to feed their body and fuel their ambitions,” says Drew. “Through a Compassionate Vegan Diet, you will discover how easy it is to incorporate fresh organic, ripe whole foods into your everyday life.” SRV Food and Fitness offers One-on-One Coaching; Food Delivery Service of a Five-Day Organic Juice Cleanse Program and an Organic Raw Food Meal Plan; Special Event Catering Services; Rejuvenating Retreats; and inHome or Destination Location Events.

LINDA SACCHETTI

Personal Wellness Coach Murrells Inlet 843-424-9586 SCInletTrade.com

YOGA INLET YOGA STUDIO

Inlet Yoga is dedicated to serving yoga students at every level of their personal practice, offering classes seven days a week from beginner to advanced. Classes include Ashtanga, Hot Vinyasa,

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Grand Strand Edition

LIVE OAK YOGA STUDIO

Karyl Tych, Certified Iyengar Teacher 9904A N Kings Hwy, MB 843-340-YOGA (9642) LiveOakYogaStudio.com

Come to Live Oak Yoga Studio to study Iyengar yoga, known for its emphasis on clear methodical instruction, correct alignment, and the use of props. You’ll receive individual attention in each class. The studio is fully equipped including a rope wall. Karyl Tych, a certified Iyengar yoga teacher, has studied with B.K.S. Iyengar in India.

SECRET LOTUS YOGA SHALA

417 79th Ave N, Ste E (upstairs) Myrtle Beach 843-333-2656 SecretLotusYoga.com

Authentic and experientially sound yoga from a classical perspective and authorized through the Yogastha Sadhana method. Secret Lotus Yoga Shala teaches intelligently designed sequences, bringing the breath together with strenuous but level-appropriate asana and meditation—all based upon yoga scripture and theory. The studio was built on the firm, traditional foundation of classical yoga and is run by yogis that have devoted their lives to the practice. All classes are for all levels.

SHANTI YOGA

As a personal wellness coach, Linda Sacchetti has served the Grand Strand for 11 years. Her mission is teaching nutrition to promote health and well-being.

She provides many services, including weight-loss challenge facilitating, wellness evaluations, free "outer nutrition" evaluations, free metabolism tests, healthy breakfast in-services for businesses, and free personal 1-1 coaching for weight loss or weight gain. Join the team! Training provided. See also "weight loss" at GrandStrandBiggestLoser.com and "business opportunity" at SCInletTrade.com.

See ad, page 5.

637 D Bellamy Ave Murrells Inlet 843-655-6272 InletYogaStudio.com

Slow Flow, Yin Yasa, Gentle, Chair, Restorative and Prenatal. Our $5 Community Class on Saturdays, from 11 am to noon, benefits the Coastal Animal Rescue and is followed by a free meditation class from 12-12:30 pm. Call for more information.

4025 N Kings Hwy 20-A Myrtle Beach 843-467-5444 ShantiMyrtleBeach.com

Shanti Yoga offers Ashtanga (led and mysore), Vinyasa and Hot yoga classes. Each class explores breath, movement and perception. Emphasis on both theory and practice provides students with the necessary foundation to expand in a personal and profound way. See ad, page 15.

YOGA DIVITA

Parkway Plaza 2126 Hwy 9 E, Unit G-2 Longs 843-283-2827 YogaDiVita.com

Yoga DiVita is a warm, welcoming environment for all to come together. A place to be with ease, breathe with clarity, and move with grace. The multidisciplinary studio is the home of certified teachers in many forms of yoga: Hatha, Anusara, Warm Vinyasa, Restorative, Yin and more. Classes held 7 days per week, mornings and evenings, ages 13 and wiser.

GrandStrandHealthyLiving.com

classifieds Fee for classifieds is $1 per word per month. To place listing, email content to GSPublisher@naturalawakeningsmag.com. Deadline is the 10th of the month.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY PROVEN PRODUCTS! PROVEN PLAN! ALL WE NEED IS YOU. Are you working your dream job? No? Do you have enough $$ to pay your bills?

No? Do you have enough time to spend with your family? No? Then you could take a look at this business opportunity! Call today! 843-424-9586 PARTNER/INVESTOR WANTED for JuiceSmoothie Plant Based Food Restaurant. We are experienced principals with extensive knowledge in nutrition, food preparation, workshops and retreats.

We are interested in partnering with like-minded people to inspire others to live a compassionate, healthy life, and to provide the Grand Strand with a healthy, nurturing establishment. Contact Jimmy @ srvJimmyMack@gmail.com or call 843-808-7727.

EMPLOYMENT ADVERTISING SALES person needed. Are you into the healthy-living sustainable culture? If you love NA and enjoy meeting people, this could be for you. Must be a tenacious self-starter that won’t take no for an answer. Commission for ad sales, work your own hours, mostly from home and outcalls.1099. Calabash to Georgetown. Email: GSpublisher@naturalawakeningsmag.com

VOLUNTEERS FOSTER PARENTS NEEDED in Horry County.

South Carolina MENTOR is seeking families/individuals willing to foster a child in need of a home.

Must be 21, have a spare bedroom, driver’s license, dependable vehicle, high school diploma/GED. Up to $930 monthly stipend. For info, contact Barbara, 843-651-6640, ext.13, SC-mentor.com.

YOGA IN COMMON

3062 Deville St The Market Common, MB 843-839-9636, 843-385-6176 YogaInCommon.com

YOGA in COMMON offers classes during a wide variety of hours, seven days per week.

They welcome all students— new or those returning to yoga. Their schedule is also great for those that want to practice daily. Visit their website or follow them on Facebook to keep up with their wellness gatherings and special events.

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December 2015

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